Getting Approved for Retail Store Cards: What Credit Score Requirements Actually Apply?

Retail store credit cards have long served as an accessible entry point for building credit history. These cards are known for easier approval compared to traditional bank credit cards, and consistent on-time payments demonstrate creditworthiness to lenders. As you maintain a positive payment record, many retailers will increase your available credit. By the time you need a strong credit profile for major financial moves—like securing a mortgage or renting an apartment—you’ll have established a solid track record.

The challenge is that credit standards have tightened in recent years. Understanding exactly what score you need is essential before you apply, especially since multiple applications can trigger hard inquiries that temporarily damage your credit.

Understanding FICO Credit Score Ranges

According to Experian, here’s how FICO scores break down:

• Exceptional: 800-850
• Very Good: 740-799
• Good: 670-739
• Fair: 580-669
• Poor: 300-579

Your position within these ranges directly impacts approval odds and the terms you’ll receive.

Why Your Score Matters for Store Credit Cards Easy Approval

A lower credit score doesn’t just make approval harder—it changes everything about your offer. Those with fair or poor ratings receive smaller credit limits, higher interest rates, and stricter terms. Multiple factors influence your score, and if you’re below 580, many retailers won’t consider you at all. Some will require a secured deposit to prove creditworthiness before they extend unsecured credit.

Before You Apply: Critical Steps

Hard inquiries are the silent credit killers. Each application can temporarily lower your score if too many hit your report in a short timeframe. Before submitting any application, check your current score and research specific retailer requirements. Many retailers offer pre-qualification tools that won’t trigger a hard inquiry, giving you confidence before you formally apply.

Retail Store Cards Easy Approval: Minimum Score Requirements by Retailer

Amazon

• Prime Visa: 670+
• Amazon Visa: 670+
• Store Card: 580+

Amazon segments its offerings by audience. Members get priority access to premium cards, while the store card option accommodates lower scores.

Best Buy

• Credit Card: 670+
• Store Card: 580+

Best Buy uses a tiered system. If the credit card isn’t approved, you’re automatically reconsidered for the store card—a smoother path to easy approval.

Home Depot

• Score Required: 580+

With zero annual fees and deferred interest options, Home Depot’s store card appeals to budget-conscious shoppers and those rebuilding credit.

Kohl’s

• Score Required: 640+

Kohl’s sits in the middle range. Their pre-qualification tool lets you gauge approval odds without a hard inquiry damaging your score.

Lowe’s

• Score Required: 640+

The Lowe’s Advantage Card rewards frequent shoppers with perks while requiring a mid-range credit score.

Target

• Circle Card Credit Card: 580+
• Target Mastercard: 670+

Target offers flexibility with two tiers. The store-exclusive card has lower requirements, while their Mastercard targets those with stronger scores.

Walmart

• Score Required: 640+

Walmart’s online application process is straightforward, making it accessible for those in the 640+ range.

The Bottom Line on Store Credit Cards

Retail store cards remain a practical tool for credit building, but “easy approval” is relative. A 580 score opens some doors (Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Home Depot), while scores in the 640-670 range expand your options significantly. Before applying, know your number, understand each retailer’s threshold, and consider using pre-qualification to protect your score. This strategic approach maximizes your chances of approval while minimizing the damage to your credit profile.