Founded by a Russian immigrant named Sam Stein in 1902, today Stein Mart has more than 260 stores spread across 30 states. While they’re best known for things like designer clothing, dresses, handbags and jewelry, they also have their own credit card. But is the Stein Mart credit card also a good deal?

What type of credit card is it?

The Stein Mart card is a MasterCard, which can be used for purchases at their stores as well as anywhere MasterCard is accepted.

Is there an annual fee?

No, the card doesn’t have a fee.

What’s the APR?

The Stein Mart website didn’t have this information listed, but I called customer service to find out. At the time of this credit card review, they told me the APR ranged from 19.99% to 29.99%, depending on your credit. This is an extremely high interest rate, especially considering that in the “best” case scenario, you are still paying a staggering 20 percent!

What are the rewards?

Their credit card rewards program is as follows:

• 2 point per dollar spent at Stein Mart stores
• 1 point per dollar spent elsewhere
• $10 Stein Mart certificate issued for every 1,000 points. So that means the card gives 2% at Stein Mart and 1% on all other purchases.

These rewards are definitely below average. Most store-affiliated cards typically give a 3% to 5% rebate for spending at their stores. Only getting 2% at Stein Mart and 1% everywhere else is far from impressive.

Are there any other benefits?

Other than the first purchase bonus (which is typical with just about every department store credit card) the website lists no added benefits for the card when I viewed it. This was a big letdown, considering that the rewards program is already sub-par to begin with.

How can you apply?

The Stein Mart credit card application isn’t available online. Rather, their website says “To apply, just ask any store associate.”

Is there a better way to save at Stein Mart?

Yes, their “Preferred Customer” program is card but not a credit card that can save money. Benefits include special sales and birthday discounts. Considering that the Stein Mart credit card gives such lousy rewards, you might as well just stick with the “Preferred Customer” program instead.

If you’re looking for a credit card that will save you money on clothes, then our sponsor Discover is definitely the way to go. They have a card that gives 5% in different categories that rotate every quarter. Both department stores and apparel stores are featured two different quarters, so that means it can actually save you 5% at all clothing retailers 6 months out of the year! To learn more and for a special promo offer check out our Discover More review