7 Retail Rewards Programs That Are Actually Worth Joining

Rewards programs are an effective way to save money while shopping, especially if you tend to frequent the same stores over and over again. While they offer a range of benefits to savvy shoppers, they can feel like more hassle than they’re worth, especially when credit is involved. Not all rewards programs involve a credit card though — in fact, most simply utilize a points system or extend fun perks to members in a no-risk, easy way.

Of course, it’s good to remember rewards programs are designed to get you to spend more money, so it’s good to be savvy about using them strategically, like during a move or room refresh. That said, if you’re not using loyalty programs, you might wind up spending more anyway.

To make things easier, we rounded up the best loyalty programs offered by home retailers, so you can finally start getting rewarded for those shopping splurges.

Wayfair has a couple different methods for gathering Rewards Dollars, which can be used on purchases not only on Wayfair, but also Joss & Main, AllModern, and Birch Lane. If you have a Wayfair Card (the company’s credit card), you’ll earn three percent back in Rewards Dollars whenever you use it to make a purchase on any of the Wayfair sites.

If you don’t have a Wayfair Card, fear not: You can also earn Dollars when you refer a friend to the site and they make a purchase. Plus, every time you write a review onsite, you’re entered to win up to $500 in Rewards Dollars (or a gift card).

While World Market does have its own credit card, it also has a more casual, regular Rewards Program, which has some major perks. Once you enroll you’ll get a 15 percent off coupon, plus access to members-only promotions and a birthday discount. If you’re a frequent shopper, you’ll be treated to a $10 off coupon for every 200 points you earn ($1 = one point), as well as free shipping on orders over $49.

Breaking from traditional loyalty programs, Urban Outfitters does not have a credit card — and its rewards program is more interactive and tech-savvy than its competitors. You’ll get 10 percent off your first purchase once you sign up, and can immediately start earning $5 Rewards that can be redeemed online, in-store, or on the UO app. Rewards can be earned 10 different ways, which is what really makes this program stand out. Options include scanning your ID every time you shop in a UO store, use the #UORewards hashtag on social media, and entering exclusive app-only giveaways.

If you love shopping at West Elm, you’ll definitely want to consider the Key Rewards program, which includes all the Williams Sonoma brands (including Williams Sonoma, West Elm, and Pottery Barn). There are two tiers: Cardholders have the Williams Sonoma credit card and earn five percent back in rewards, while Key Holders get three percent back in rewards by shopping at any of the brands, minus the credit card. Every time you earn at least $15, you’ll get a reward that can be redeemed across the sites.

Target’s REDcard can be issued as either a credit or debit card, depending on your preference. Both work like you would expect — the debit card actually links to your existing checking account, and allows you to withdraw cash at checkout up to $40. There are plenty of benefits: Members get five percent off most purchases, free two-day shipping, and an extended return window. You’ll also get an additional five percent off when you use your REDcard at an in-store Starbucks, shop clearance, or sign up for a Target subscription.

Nordstrom offers four tiers to their rewards system based on the amount you spend ($1 = one point for non-cardholders), but every member has access to the same exclusive perks—including free alterations, curbside pickup, and reserve online. Credit card members get even more benefits and earn more points per dollar spent, making inclusion in the highest tier (Ambassador) easier to reach.

IKEA’s loyalty program doesn’t allow customers to earn points or dollars, but it does offer exclusive discounts and offers on a huge variety of products. The discounts happen on a rotation — current offerings include up to 20 percent off dinnerware and up to 25 percent off plant pots and baskets. While not the most exciting of rewards programs, it’s worth it if you live and breathe IKEA and want to save where you can.

This post originally ran on Apartment Therapy. See it there: 7 Retail Rewards Programs That Are Actually Worth It

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