Introducing the Sam’s Club Mastercard – a financial tool that’s revolutionizing the way Sam’s Club members shop and save. Sam’s Club Mastercard, often referred to as Sam’s Credit Card, has recently undergone a significant transformation, unveiling a brand new rewards program designed to enhance the shopping experience for members. With exclusive benefits and cashback offers, this credit card opens doors to a world of savings, whether you’re stocking up on groceries, filling up your gas tank, or making everyday purchases. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of the Sam’s Club Mastercard, exploring its revamped rewards program and helping you uncover the potential advantages of this versatile card.
The Sam’s Club Mastercard Rewards Transformation
In the past, the Sam’s Club Mastercard offered some attractive rewards for Sam’s Club members, regardless of their membership level. Members could earn five percent cashback on gas purchases (up to $6,000 per year), three percent cashback on travel, three percent cashback on dining, and one percent cashback on all other purchases. However, recent changes have shaken up this system.
Club Level Membership ($45/year)
If you’re a Sam’s Club member paying the standard $45 annual fee, you can still have the Sam’s Club Mastercard, but there are some changes. Notably, the 3% cashback on travel is no longer offered. However, you still enjoy 5% cashback on gas, 3% on dining, and 1% on all other card purchases.
Plus Level Membership ($100/year)
For those willing to upgrade to the $100 annual Sam’s Club Plus membership, you get even more from your Sam’s Club Mastercard. Here’s what’s in store for you:
- 5% Cashback at Sam’s Club: You’ll earn five percent cashback on your purchases made inside Sam’s Club store locations, up to $25,000 per year.
- 3% Cashback at Sam’s Club Online: Any purchases you make at samsclub.com will also earn you three percent cashback.
- Continued Benefits: You still enjoy the five percent cashback on gas (up to $6,000 per year), three percent cashback on dining, and one percent cashback on all other card purchases.
Understanding the Rewards Structure
It’s essential to clarify how Sam’s Club has structured their rewards program to get a better understanding of how these rewards accumulate. As a Plus member with the Sam’s Club Mastercard, you get 3% cashback on all Sam’s Club purchases, both in-store and online. The extra 2% cashback on in-store purchases gets you to that coveted five percent cashback figure. However, when you use your card at samsclub.com, you don’t receive the extra two percent, so you’ll only get three percent cashback.
Maximizing Rewards – What’s the Break-even Point?
If you’re the type who likes to crunch numbers, we’ve got you covered. The question you need to answer is whether upgrading to the Plus membership at an additional $55 per year is worth it in terms of rewards. The break-even point comes down to your annual spending at Sam’s Club.
- If you spend around $1,400 or more at Sam’s Club every year, upgrading to the Plus membership makes sense. The extra rewards you earn will outweigh the additional cost, putting more money back in your pocket.
- However, if you spend less than $1,400 annually, sticking with the $45 Club membership and the corresponding Mastercard rewards may be the better choice.
Sam’s Club Mastercard vs. Other Retail Cards: A Quick Comparison
Retail credit cards offer unique rewards and benefits for loyal shoppers. Let’s compare the Sam’s Club Mastercard to some other popular retail credit cards on the market:
1. Sam’s Club Mastercard vs. Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card
Sam’s Club Mastercard:
– 5% cash back on Sam’s Club store purchases (up to $25,000/year).
– 3% cash back on samsclub.com.
– 5% cash back on gas (up to $6,000/year).
– 3% cash back on dining.
– 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card:
– 5% cash back on Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market.
– 2% cash back is offered at restaurants, gas stations, and pharmacies.
– 1% cash back on all other purchases.
– Requires Amazon Prime membership ($119/year).
Comparison: If you’re a frequent Amazon shopper, the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card is excellent. For broader in-store and online rewards, the Sam’s Club Mastercard may be the better choice.
2. Sam’s Club Mastercard vs. Costco Anywhere Visa Card
Sam’s Club Mastercard:
– 5% cash back on Sam’s Club store purchases (up to $25,000/year).
– 3% cash back on samsclub.com.
– 5% cash back on gas (up to $6,000/year).
– 3% cash back on dining.
– 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Costco Anywhere Visa Card:
– 4% cash back on gas (up to $7,000/year).
– 3% cash back on dining and travel.
– 2% cash back at Costco.
– 1% cash back on all other purchases.
– Requires Costco membership ($60/year).
Comparison: The Sam’s Club Mastercard offers higher cash back for in-store purchases, while the Costco card excels in gas rewards. Choose based on your shopping preferences and membership.
3. Sam’s Club Mastercard vs. Target REDcard
Sam’s Club Mastercard:
– 5% cash back on Sam’s Club store purchases (up to $25,000/year).
– 3% cash back on samsclub.com.
– 5% cash back on gas (up to $6,000/year).
– 3% cash back on dining.
– 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Target REDcard:
– 5% discount on most Target purchases.
– Additional perks include free shipping and exclusive discounts.
– No annual fee or membership is necessary.
Comparison: The Target REDcard is great for Target shoppers, offering a flat 5% discount. The Sam’s Club Mastercard is versatile, especially for gas and dining, but requires Sam’s Club membership.
4. Sam’s Club Mastercard vs. Best Buy Credit Card
Sam’s Club Mastercard:
– 5% cash back on Sam’s Club store purchases (up to $25,000/year).
– 3% cash back on samsclub.com.
– 5% cash back on gas (up to $6,000/year).
– 3% cash back on dining.
– 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Best Buy Credit Card:
– Variable rewards depending on the card version.
– Special financing offers and 5% back in rewards for Elite Plus members.
– No annual fee or membership is necessary.
Comparison: The Best Buy Credit Card is ideal for tech enthusiasts. The Sam’s Club Mastercard offers versatile rewards for various purchases, especially in-store.
5. Sam’s Club Mastercard vs. Walmart Rewards Card
Sam’s Club Mastercard:
– 5% cash back on Sam’s Club store purchases (up to $25,000/year).
– 3% cash back on samsclub.com.
– 5% cash back on gas (up to $6,000/year).
– 3% cash back on dining.
– 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Walmart Rewards Card:
– 5% cash back on Walmart.com purchases.
– Additional advantages like free shipping and exclusive savings.
– No annual fee or membership is necessary.
Comparison: The Walmart Rewards Card is perfect for online Walmart shoppers. The Sam’s Club Mastercard offers versatility for a range of purchases.
6. Sam’s Club Mastercard vs. TJX Rewards Credit Card
Sam’s Club Mastercard:
– 5% cash back on Sam’s Club store purchases (up to $25,000/year).
– 3% cash back on samsclub.com.
– 5% cash back on gas (up to $6,000/year).
– 3% cash back on dining.
– 1% cash back on all other purchases.
TJX Rewards Credit Card:
– 5% cash back at T.J.Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods, and Sierra stores.
– Special shopping days and additional discounts.
– No annual fee or membership is necessary.
Comparison: The TJX Rewards Credit Card is perfect for shoppers at TJX-affiliated stores. The Sam’s Club Mastercard offers broader rewards for various purchases.
Conclusion
The changes introduced by Sam’s Club to the Sam’s Club Mastercard and its membership tiers provide an opportunity for members to make the most of their spending. The Plus membership with enhanced rewards can be a lucrative option for most members, particularly those who are regular shoppers at Sam’s Club. So, whether you’re budget-conscious or like to splurge on shopping, Sam’s Club offers a way for you to earn more rewards and enjoy significant savings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Sam’s Club Mastercard?
The Sam’s Club Mastercard is a credit card that offers cashback rewards for Sam’s Club members. It allows you to earn cashback on your purchases, including those made at Sam’s Club and other eligible locations.
What are the recent changes to the Sam’s Club Mastercard rewards program?
The recent changes to the Sam’s Club Mastercard rewards program include distinctions in rewards based on your membership level. Club members and Plus members now receive different cashback percentages on their purchases.
Is it worth upgrading to the Sam’s Club Plus membership for the enhanced credit card rewards?
The decision to upgrade to the Plus membership depends on your spending habits. If you’re a frequent Sam’s Club shopper, the enhanced rewards may be worthwhile. We’ve provided a detailed breakdown to help you make an informed choice.
What are the benefits of the Sam’s Club Mastercard for gas purchases?
With the Sam’s Club Mastercard, you can earn cashback on gas purchases. However, there is a yearly limit on the cashback you can earn on gas. The card offers different rates for Club and Plus members.
How can I apply for the Sam’s Club Mastercard, and who is eligible?
To apply for the Sam’s Club Mastercard, you need to be a Sam’s Club member. The card is subject to credit approval. You can apply in-store or online, and if approved, you’ll receive your card by mail.