If you shop at Dillard's often, a store card promising points and special discounts can be tempting at the register. But before you say yes, it helps to know what the Dillard's credit card actually offers and whether it fits your credit situation.
This Firstcard guide breaks down the Dillard's credit card's rewards, its two versions, who tends to qualify, and what to do if you need to build credit first.
What Is the Dillard's Credit Card?
The Dillard's credit card is a retail card tied to the Dillard's department store. It rewards you for shopping at Dillard's and, in some cases, can be used elsewhere too. As of June 2026, the program is issued by Citi, after a transition from prior issuers.
Like most store cards, the main draw is shopper perks rather than broad cash back.
Two Versions to Know
When you apply, you may end up with one of two products:
- A store-only card that works at Dillard's in store and online.
- A Dillard's Mastercard that can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
Which one you get usually depends on your credit. Stronger credit tends to qualify for the Mastercard version, while fair credit may get the store-only card. If you are not sure which tier you fall into, our guide on how to choose a credit card can help you weigh the options. Check Dillard's website for current details.
How the Rewards Work
The Dillard's credit card uses a points system tied to your spending, with bonus points at Dillard's and sometimes at supermarkets and gas stations on the Mastercard version. Reach a points threshold and you earn rewards certificates or special shopping passes.
As of June 2026, the card has generally carried a $0 annual fee. Reward rates, thresholds, and welcome offers change, so confirm current terms on Dillard's website. Terms and conditions apply, and APRs vary by creditworthiness.
Watch the APR
Retail cards often carry higher APRs than general rewards cards. That is fine if you pay in full each month, but expensive if you carry a balance. The rewards rarely outweigh steep interest charges, so plan to pay your statement off.
Who Qualifies for the Dillard's Credit Card?
Store cards like the Dillard's credit card are often easier to get than premium rewards cards. The store-only version in particular may be available to applicants with fair credit, while the Mastercard version usually wants good or better credit. If your score is in the middle, it is worth scanning the best credit cards for less than perfect credit before you decide.
If your credit is very thin or damaged, even a store card may be a stretch. That is common, and there is a clear path forward.
Store Cards and Your Credit
Many store cards report to the credit bureaus, so responsible use can help you build credit. Just remember that a high balance on a low-limit store card can spike your utilization, which can drag your score down. Keep balances low.
Building Credit Before You Apply
If you are not approved or you want a more flexible card, building your credit first is the smart move. A credit-builder card reports your payments to the bureaus, which is what lifts your score over time.
Firstcard is designed to help people with no, low, or bruised credit get on a stronger footing. Build first, then choose the card that fits.
Starter Cards Worth Knowing
Several partner cards can help, and the most complete starting point bundles a builder loan and a card together.
The Self Visa® Credit Card pairs a credit-builder account with a secured card, great for starting from scratch. Because it reports both an installment loan and a revolving secured line, it builds two kinds of positive history at once, which gives a thin profile the depth it needs before you reach for a flexible card like the Dillard's Mastercard.
If you would rather build from the shopping you already do, a debit-style builder card is an easy on-ramp. The Current Build Card helps you build credit from everyday spending, with no traditional credit check or security deposit. It fits anyone who wants routine purchases to quietly turn into reported payment history, strengthening the profile you will lean on when you apply for the Dillard's Mastercard or a general rewards card.
Current Build Card
Current Build Card
$0 annual fee. No minimum deposit required. No credit check required. 1 point per dollar on eligible categories. Reports to Experian, TransUnion, Equifax.
Fee
$0
APR
0%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$0
Credit Check
No
Cashback
1 point/dollar on eligible categories (with qualifying payroll deposit)
Benefit
No credit check, no deposit minimum
For the lowest barrier to entry, a small secured credit card line that reports on time can lift your score with very little cash up front. The Kikoff Secured Credit Card is a low-barrier way to add on-time payment history. It suits people who want to start building right away without tying up a large deposit, a sensible first step before applying for a store or rewards card like Dillard's.
Kikoff Secured Credit Card
Kikoff Secured Credit Card
Kikoff Secured Credit Card works like a debit card & checking account and performs like a credit builder. Build credit with your everyday purchases.
APR
0%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$0
Credit Check
No
Cashback
Yes
Benefit
0% interest. No credit check.
A couple of other options round out the list:
- OpenSky offers a secured card with no credit check to apply.
- Chime offers a credit-building card tied to your everyday spending.
Approval is never guaranteed, and terms and conditions apply. Always confirm current details with the issuer.
Using a Builder Card the Right Way
Whether your goal is the Dillard's Mastercard or a general rewards card, the habits are the same.
What to Do
- Charge small, routine purchases you would make anyway.
- Pay the full statement balance on time every month.
- Keep your balance low relative to your limit.
Keep this up for several months and your score generally improves. After that, more flexible cards open up.
Dillard's Card vs. a General Rewards Card
A store card shines if you shop at one place a lot. A general card spreads rewards across all your spending.
Which Fits You?
- Shop at Dillard's frequently and want store perks? The Dillard's credit card can deliver value.
- Want rewards everywhere you spend? One of the best personal credit cards for rewards is usually more flexible.
No card is zero-risk. Missed payments or high balances can hurt your credit, so use any card responsibly.
Is the Dillard's Credit Card Worth It?
For a regular Dillard's shopper who pays in full each month, the Dillard's credit card can offer worthwhile discounts and points. If you rarely shop there or tend to carry a balance, the value shrinks quickly.
If your credit is not ready, build it first with a tool like the Self Visa® Credit Card or the Current Build Card, then revisit your options. Firstcard can help you plan the path. Terms and conditions apply, and APRs vary by creditworthiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do I need for the Dillard's credit card?
The store-only version may be available to applicants with fair credit, while the Dillard's Mastercard usually wants good or better credit. Very thin or damaged credit may still lead to a decline. Building credit first with a secured card can improve your odds.
Does the Dillard's credit card have an annual fee?
As of June 2026, the Dillard's credit card has generally carried a $0 annual fee. Fees and terms can change, so check Dillard's website for current details before applying.
Can I use the Dillard's credit card anywhere?
It depends on which version you get. The store-only card works at Dillard's in store and online, while the Dillard's Mastercard can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted. Your credit profile usually determines which one you receive.
What if I am declined for the Dillard's credit card?
A decline usually means your credit needs more positive history. Use a credit-builder or secured card like the Kikoff Secured Credit Card, pay on time every month, and keep balances low. After several months, your odds of qualifying improve.
