How to Save Money at Department Stores

Because of the internet, the pandemic and many other factors, the number of department store businesses in the U.S. has dropped by more than half in the past 10 years, according to IBIS World. (Rest in peace, Lord & Taylor and Sears. I miss you!)

Despite the industry’s struggles, department stores are still a great place to shop and save. But unlike warehouse and big-box stores, which advertise everyday low prices, department stores make you work the angles. And there are lots! 

Here are my favorite tools for shopping at the country’s largest department stores. Note that I’m not including store credit cards. The perks may be good if you don’t carry a balance, but with their high interest rates, just one missed payment can wipe out all your savings.

Macy’s

• Star Rewards program. It gives you access to discounts and the store’s Star Money credits (good for 30 days), which you can spend both in stores and online.
• Macy’s sale days. Special markdown events happen frequently throughout the year, including Friends and Family, One Day Sales and Lowest Prices of the Season events with markdowns of up to 60 percent. Also, don’t miss Star Money Bonus Days, when loyalty program members can rack up points faster toward Star Money. To keep track of the retailer’s many sales and special offers, visit the Macy’s deal section on its website, where you can also sign up for email or text alerts.
• Macy’s Backstage. Many locations offer this T.J. Maxx–like discount department. And don’t miss Last Act clearances.
• The app. Once it’s on your phone, you can access your rewards account, Star Money, coupons and more.

Kohl’s

Like other department stores, Kohl’s has dozens of sales and special store events, including ­clearance and Friends & Family sales, which happen multiple times a year. It also has item-specific sales, including semiannual bra and shoe sales. Last year, it offered Dashing Deal Days in November along with the usual Black Friday and other holiday sales. You can keep on top of the action by downloading the store’s app to your phone or by visiting kohls.com. Under Shop by Category, click on Sale + Must-Have Prices or Clearance & Closeouts.