American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) offers a store-branded credit card that appeals to frequent shoppers looking for rewards and special perks. Whether you shop at AEO regularly or are considering getting this card, understanding its features, benefits, and potential drawbacks is crucial. In this guide, I will break down everything you need to know to help you decide if the American Eagle Outfitters credit card is right for you.
Table of Contents
Overview of the American Eagle Outfitters Credit Card
The AEO credit card comes in two variants:
- AEO Store Credit Card (for use exclusively at AEO and Aerie stores)
- AEO Visa Credit Card (usable anywhere Visa is accepted)
Both cards offer similar rewards and benefits but differ in their spending flexibility. Below is a quick comparison of their key features:
| Feature | AEO Store Credit Card | AEO Visa Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Where to Use | AEO and Aerie stores | Anywhere Visa is accepted |
| Annual Fee | $0 | $0 |
| Reward Points | 15 points per $1 spent | 15 points per $1 spent at AEO, 5 points per $1 elsewhere |
| Welcome Bonus | 20% off first purchase | 20% off first purchase |
| Birthday Discount | Yes | Yes |
| Special Offers | Yes | Yes |
| Interest Rate (APR) | High | High |
Rewards and Benefits
The primary draw of the AEO credit card is its generous reward structure for frequent shoppers. The card allows me to earn points quickly and redeem them for discounts and free merchandise.
Reward Structure
For every dollar I spend at AEO or Aerie using the card, I earn 15 points. When I use the AEO Visa card at other retailers, I still earn 5 points per dollar spent. Once I accumulate 2,500 points, I receive a $10 reward.
Here’s a breakdown of how the rewards add up:
| Spend Amount | Points Earned (AEO) | Points Earned (Other Stores – Visa Only) | Reward Value Earned |
|---|---|---|---|
| $100 | 1,500 points | 500 points | No reward yet |
| $200 | 3,000 points | 1,000 points | $10 reward |
| $500 | 7,500 points | 2,500 points | $30 reward |
Additional Benefits
- Exclusive Discounts: I enjoy periodic cardholder-exclusive discounts, including seasonal sales and early access to promotions.
- Birthday Gift: Every year, AEO offers me a special birthday discount.
- Free Shipping: Online orders qualify for free shipping when using the card.
- Member Status: By reaching specific spending thresholds, I may achieve higher-tier membership with added perks.
Interest Rates and Fees
While the rewards are attractive, the interest rates and fees associated with the AEO credit card can be high. The APR for purchases can exceed 25%, making it costly if I carry a balance. Here’s a breakdown of fees:
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Purchase APR | 25.99% (variable) |
| Late Payment Fee | Up to $40 |
| Returned Payment Fee | Up to $40 |
Example: Reward Calculation vs. Interest Charges
Let’s say I spend $300 at AEO and carry a balance for three months without paying it off. Here’s how the rewards and interest compare:
Rewards Earned:
- $300 x 15 points = 4,500 points (not enough for a $10 reward yet)
Interest Accrued:
- Assuming a 25.99% APR, the interest for three months would be approximately: $300 x (25.99% / 12) x 3 = $19.49
In this scenario, if I don’t pay my balance in full, the interest cost outweighs the rewards.
Who Should Get This Card?
The AEO credit card is ideal for individuals who:
- Frequently shop at American Eagle or Aerie.
- Pay off their balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
- Want exclusive discounts and perks.
However, it may not be suitable for those who:
- Rarely shop at AEO.
- Tend to carry a balance.
- Prefer a card with broader rewards flexibility.
Comparing to Other Retail Cards
If I compare the AEO card to other retail cards like Gap or Old Navy, I notice some differences:
| Feature | AEO Credit Card | Gap Credit Card | Old Navy Credit Card |
|---|---|---|---|
| Store Rewards | 15 points per $1 | 5 points per $1 | 5 points per $1 |
| Visa Option | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Birthday Perks | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Free Shipping | Yes | Yes | Yes |
The AEO card offers higher point accumulation, but its high interest rate makes it essential to pay off balances quickly.
Tips for Maximizing Benefits
To get the most out of the AEO credit card, I follow these best practices:
- Pay the balance in full: Avoid interest charges by clearing my balance monthly.
- Shop during promotions: Use the card when AEO offers bonus points or exclusive discounts.
- Combine with other offers: Stack cardholder perks with store promotions for bigger savings.
- Track my rewards: Ensure I redeem my points before they expire.
Conclusion
The American Eagle Outfitters credit card provides great benefits for dedicated AEO shoppers. With its high reward rates and special discounts, it can be valuable if used responsibly. However, the high-interest rates mean it’s crucial to avoid carrying a balance. If you’re a loyal AEO customer and can pay your bill in full, this card can be a rewarding choice.
