At Academy Sports + Outdoors, the Academy credit card offers a 5% discount on everyday buys. This discount applies to purchases both in-store and online. Plus, you get free shipping on orders over $15 online.
But, the Academy card has some downsides. It’s not very flexible and has a high annual percentage rate. For most people, a general cash-back credit card might be a better choice. These cards offer rewards and perks no matter where you shop.
Key Takeaways
- The Academy credit card offers a 5% discount on all purchases made at Academy Sports + Outdoors stores and online.
- Cardholders receive free shipping on online orders of $15 or more.
- The card is issued by Comenita Bank and has a high annual percentage rate (APR).
- The Academy credit card may not be the best option for most consumers, who could benefit more from a general cash-back credit card.
- The card has limited flexibility and rewards compared to other credit card options.
Earn a 5% Discount at Academy Sports
The Academy credit card has a simple rewards program. It gives a 5% discount on all purchases at Academy Sports + Outdoors, both online and in-store. This makes the Academy card stand out from other store-branded credit cards.
Simple Rewards Structure
Customers get a flat 5% discount on their entire purchase at Academy Sports + Outdoors. This includes sporting goods, apparel, and equipment for hunting and fishing. The discount is easy to apply at checkout, helping cardholders save on their purchases.
Exclusions and Limitations
Not all items get the 5% discount. Gift cards, hunting licenses, and fishing licenses are not eligible. Also, using more than one payment for an online purchase means no discount on that purchase.
| Item | Eligible for 5% Discount? |
|---|---|
| Academy Purchases | Yes |
| Gift Cards | No |
| Hunting Licenses | No |
| Fishing Licenses | No |
| In-Store Services | No |
| Multiple Payment Forms (Online) | No |
“The 5% discount on all Academy Sports + Outdoors purchases is a game-changer for frequent shoppers at the store.”
Restrictions on Usage
The Academy credit card can only be used at Academy Sports + Outdoors stores. This means you can’t use it at other places. This is unlike general cash-back cards that let you earn rewards at many sporting goods stores and other places.
Closed-Loop Card
The Academy card is a “closed-loop” card. This means you can only earn rewards at Academy Sports + Outdoors or on their website. Unlike other cash-back cards, it doesn’t offer many categories or ways to manage your spending.
Comparison with General Cash-Back Cards
The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card gives 5% cash back on up to $2,000 in purchases each quarter in two bonus categories. You can choose these categories, including sporting goods stores. This card offers more flexibility than the closed-loop Academy card.
| Feature | Academy Credit Card | U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature |
|---|---|---|
| Rewards Structure | 5% back on Academy purchases | 5% back on 2 chosen bonus categories, including sporting goods stores |
| Shopping Flexibility | Closed-loop, can only be used at Academy | Can be used at any merchant, with bonus rewards in chosen categories |
| Active Management | No category selection required | Requires choosing 2 bonus categories each quarter |
Academy Credit Card Sign-Up Offer
New cardholders get a one-time $15 discount on their first purchase at Academy Sports. But, this offer can’t be used with the regular 5% everyday discount. Also, the discount only applies if you apply online and make your first purchase in the same session.
The academy credit card sign-up offer might look good at first. But, it’s much less than what other no-annual-fee cards offer. For example, the Chase Freedom Flex® gives a $200 sign-up bonus after spending $500 in the first 3 months.
| Card | Sign-Up Bonus | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Academy Credit Card | $15 First Purchase Discount | $0 |
| Chase Freedom Flex® | $200 after $500 spend in 3 months | $0 |
The Academy credit card’s sign-up offer is not as good as other no-annual-fee cards. Cardholders should look at their options. They might find cards with better first purchase discounts or sign-up bonuses to get more rewards.
Sky-High APR for Purchases
If you’re thinking about financing your purchases at Academy, the Academy credit card might not be the top choice. As of August 2023, the APR on purchases for this card is a high 31.99%. This means carrying a balance could be very costly, which might reduce the value of any rewards or discounts you get.
It’s better to look at a card with an introductory 0% APR offer. The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card is a good example. It offers 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and any balance transfers in the first 60 days. This gives you more time to pay off your purchases without high interest charges.
Alternative Low APR Cards
For academy credit card apr, there are other low-interest cards to consider for your financing purchases:
- Chase Freedom Unlimited®: Offers a 0% Intro APR on purchases for 15 months, then a variable APR of 16.99% – 25.74%.
- Citi® Double Cash Card: Provides a 0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months, then a variable APR of 15.99% – 25.99%.
- Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: Features a 0% Intro APR on purchases for 15 months, followed by a variable APR of 16.99% – 26.99%.
Looking at these alternatives, you can find a good mix of 0% intro apr offers and long-term variable apr rates. This ensures your financing purchases at Academy are more affordable.
Free Shipping on Academy.com
The Academy credit card offers free shipping on all online purchases of $15 or more. This perk lets cardholders shop at academy.com without extra shipping costs. It makes online shopping more convenient and affordable from home.
Easy Returns Process
Academy makes returns easy for its credit card customers. Cardholders can start returns on the Academy website and get a prepaid FedEx shipping label. They can also return items at a nearby retail store returns location.
This easy returns policy shows Academy’s commitment to a great shopping experience. Customers can choose between online returns or visiting a store. Either way, Academy makes returns simple and easy.
“The free shipping and easy returns policy are two of the most valuable benefits that the Academy credit card offers. It’s a game-changer for online shoppers who want to save on shipping costs and have the flexibility to return items without any additional hassle.”
Academy Credit Card
The Academy credit card is a special card from Academy Sports + Outdoors. It’s for people who love sports, outdoor activities, and gear. This card gives you special perks and rewards when you shop at Academy or online.
Earning Rewards
With the Academy credit card, you get a 5% discount on many items at Academy or on their website. This makes shopping at Academy more rewarding, especially if you visit often.
Limitations and Exclusions
- The 5% discount doesn’t apply to gift cards, sales tax, or shipping fees.
- Some products, like hunting licenses, are not part of the rewards program.
Accessing Card Benefits
To get the most from the Academy credit card, show the card when you buy or use it online at Academy.com. This card is special because it can only be used at Academy or on their website, not for other purchases.
The Academy credit card might not be for everyone since it’s only good at Academy. But if you shop there a lot, the 5% discount can save you a lot of money. It could be a great choice for you.
When considering the Academy Credit Card, there are several things to know, such as the account opening process, how to activate your card, and managing your academy credit card balance. The Academy Credit Card is issued by Community Bank, and the status of your application can typically be checked within 7-10 business days after submitting an application. To manage your card online, you can log in to your account for online access, view your purchases made, and make your minimum payment on time. The card offers various benefits, but be aware of the annual percentage rate (APR) on purchases, which is tied to the prime rate. When making purchases with the Academy Sports Card, your first purchase must be made within a specific period to take advantage of certain offers. Payments can be made through one form of payment, but if you want to pay by a different card, make sure to send your academy credit card payment on time. If you have any issues, you can reach customer care by calling customer service. Always verify all terms independently collected by WalletHub, as their editorial content, including the best financial products and providers, is designed to provide you with top-notch information but does not constitute an endorsement of the institution or professional by us or vice versa. Remember, advertising does not impact WalletHub’s editorial content, including what financial products and providers are best for your needs, irrespective of whether an institution or professional pays for advertising on the site. If you notice discrepancies or have concerns, please let us know, as responsible usage of your Academy Credit Card will ensure a positive experience.
The Academy Credit Card, issued by Community Capital Bank, is a store card designed for frequent shoppers at Academy Sports and Outdoors. This credit card offers benefits such as $15 off your first purchase and standard shipping options, making it a popular choice among sporting goods enthusiasts. When applying for the Academy Sports Credit Card, you can do so online, providing your social security number and other necessary card information. After submitting your application, approval usually takes 7-10 business days. Once approved, cardholders can manage their card information and make credit card payments through an online account, allowing them to pay their bill conveniently. The card features a variable APR and does not offer balance transfer options. However, cardholders should be mindful of terms and conditions, including potential late fees and the absence of an annual fee. Community Bank ensures that credit cards like the Academy Store Card maintain strict editorial standards, and while offers appear attractive, they are part of the broader terms and conditions that cardholders should review carefully. Maintaining a good credit score is essential for securing the best credit offers, and it’s crucial to pay your bill on time to avoid any negative impact on your credit profile.
Also Read : How To Choose A Credit Card: Key Factors To Consider
Conclusion
The Academy credit card can be a great choice for those who shop often at Academy Sports + Outdoors. It offers a 5% discount on most purchases and free shipping on online orders over $15. But, it’s not perfect. The card can only be used at Academy and has a high annual percentage rate (APR).
Before getting the Academy credit card, think about how you spend money and your financial goals. If you buy a lot from Academy, the 5% discount might be good for you. But, the high APR and limited use might not be worth it for everyone. Always check the terms and conditions, including any fees or exclusions, before applying.
The Academy credit card is a good choice for frequent Academy shoppers. But, it might not be the best for everyone. Think about your financial situation and shopping habits to pick the right credit card for you.
FAQs
Q: What is the Academy Credit Card and who issues it?
A: The Academy Credit Card is a store card issued by Comenity Capital Bank, designed for customers who frequently shop at Academy Sports + Outdoors. It offers various benefits and rewards for sporting goods purchases.
Q: How can I apply for the Academy Sports Credit Card?
A: You can apply for the Academy Sports Credit Card online through the Academy Sports + Outdoors website or in-store at any Academy location. Make sure to have your social security number and other personal information ready for the application process.
Q: Is there an annual fee for the Academy Credit Card?
A: No, the Academy Credit Card does not have an annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for regular shoppers at Academy Sports + Outdoors.
Q: How can I make an Academy Credit Card payment?
A: You can make your Academy Credit Card payment online through your online account, via mail, or by phone. Be sure to include your credit card number and follow the instructions provided by Comenity Bank.
Q: What is the minimum payment required for the Academy Credit Card?
A: The minimum payment for your Academy Credit Card bill will be stated on your monthly statement. Typically, it is a percentage of your balance or a fixed dollar amount, whichever is greater.
Q: How do I check my Academy Credit Card balance?
A: You can check your Academy Credit Card balance by logging into your online account or by calling Comenity Bank’s customer care for assistance with your account information.
Q: What are the benefits of using the Academy Sports Credit Card?
A: Benefits include special financing offers, discounts on purchases, and rewards points on every purchase, which can lead to savings on future transactions at Academy Sports + Outdoors.
Q: Can I transfer a balance to my Academy Credit Card?
A: Yes, you can perform a balance transfer, but it is advisable to check the APR on purchases and any fees associated with the transfer. Be sure to review the terms before proceeding.
Q: What should I do if I lost my Academy Credit Card?
A: If you lose your Academy Credit Card, contact Comenity Bank immediately to report the loss and request a replacement card. Make sure to monitor your account for any unauthorized transactions.
Source Links
- https://www.academy.com/help/academy-credit-card
- https://www.academy.com/academy-credit-card
- https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/academy-credit-card