Walmart Credit Card Overview
Walmart offers two credit cards through Capital One: the Walmart Rewards Card (store-only) and the Capital One Walmart Rewards Mastercard (for use anywhere). Both cards earn rewards on Walmart purchases, with higher rates on Walmart.com orders and in-store pickup. There's no annual fee on either version.
The store card is generally easier to qualify for since it can only be used at Walmart and on Walmart.com. The Mastercard version requires a stronger credit profile because it can be used at any merchant that accepts Mastercard.
What Credit Score Do You Need?
Walmart doesn't publish an official minimum credit score, but based on user reports, the store-only card typically requires a credit score of around 560 to 620. The Mastercard version generally needs a score of 640 or higher.
If your score is below 560, your approval odds are low. Between 560 and 620, you have a reasonable chance at the store card, especially if you have stable income and limited negative marks on your credit report. Above 640, you're likely a strong candidate for either version.
Factors Beyond Your Score
Capital One looks at more than just your credit score when evaluating your application. Your income relative to your existing debts matters — a lower debt-to-income ratio improves your odds. Recent negative events like collections, charge-offs, or a bankruptcy can result in a denial even if your score meets the minimum.
The number of recent hard inquiries on your credit report also plays a role. If you've applied for several credit products in the past six months, lenders may see you as higher risk. Existing accounts with Capital One (even a checking or savings account) can sometimes help your application.
How to Improve Your Approval Chances
Before applying, take a few steps to strengthen your profile. Check your credit score for free and review your credit report for errors. Dispute any mistakes that could be pulling your score down.
Pay down existing credit card balances to lower your utilization ratio. Even dropping from 80% utilization to 30% can boost your score by 30 or more points within a billing cycle. Make sure all your bills are current with no recent late payments.
When filling out the application, include all sources of income. If you're 21 or older, you can include household income, not just your personal earnings. A higher reported income improves your debt-to-income ratio in the lender's eyes.
Alternatives If You're Denied
If your Walmart application is denied, you'll receive a letter explaining why. Use this feedback to target your credit improvement efforts. In the meantime, consider a secured credit card that requires a deposit but is easier to qualify for.
A credit builder loan is another option that helps establish positive payment history. You could also explore credit cards for bad credit from other issuers that specialize in working with lower scores.
After six to twelve months of building credit with these products, your score should improve enough to reapply for the Walmart card with better odds.
Build the Score First
While you work on your score, a no-credit-check secured option like the OpenSky Secured Visa reports to all three bureaus and is commonly approved even with a FICO under 580 — putting you on track for a Walmart card in 6–12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get the Walmart credit card with a 550 score?
Approval under 580 is rare but possible, especially for the store-only version, if your income is strong and you have no recent delinquencies. The Mastercard version typically needs 620+.
Does Walmart do a hard pull when I apply?
Yes. Whether you apply in-store or online, Capital One performs a hard credit inquiry that drops your score 5–10 points for a few months.
Will the Walmart card help me rebuild credit?
Yes, if used responsibly. Capital One reports to all three bureaus, so on-time payments build positive history. Keep utilization below 30% to maximize the benefit.
What's the minimum income for the Walmart card?
Capital One does not publish a formal minimum, but most approvals list income of at least $15,000–$20,000 per year. Household income can be included if you're 21 or older.
Learn more about building credit with Firstcard.
