The Athleta Rewards Mastercard®: A Comprehensive Guide to Features and Application

The Athleta Rewards Mastercard® is a credit card designed specifically for customers who love shopping at Athleta, the popular activewear retailer known for its high-quality athletic clothing and accessories for women. This card provides a variety of perks tailored to those who frequently shop at Athleta and other Gap Inc. brands, including Banana Republic, Old Navy, and Gap. Offering the ability to earn rewards on every purchase, the Athleta Rewards Mastercard® is a fantastic tool for customers looking to maximize their savings on their fitness, lifestyle, and fashion purchases.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the key features of the Athleta Rewards Mastercard®, how it works, and the steps for applying for the card.

What Is the Athleta Rewards Mastercard®?

The Athleta Rewards Mastercard® is a co-branded credit card issued by Barclays Bank in partnership with Athleta and other Gap Inc. brands. The card is designed to reward loyal customers with a range of benefits, including rewards for every purchase made with the card. The Athleta Rewards Mastercard® is accepted everywhere Mastercard is accepted, making it a versatile option for both Athleta-specific purchases and everyday spending.

In addition to earning rewards points for purchases, cardholders also receive exclusive benefits, discounts, and offers from Athleta, making it a great choice for anyone who frequently shops at the retailer.

Key Benefits of the Athleta Rewards Mastercard®

1. Rewards Program:
   • 5% back on Athleta purchases: The primary benefit of the Athleta Rewards Mastercard® is the ability to earn 5% back on purchases made at Athleta, whether in-store or online. For anyone who frequently shops at Athleta for athletic apparel and accessories, this can quickly add up to significant savings.
   • 1% back on other purchases: The card also earns 1% back on all other purchases made outside of Athleta, providing a way to earn rewards on your daily expenses such as groceries, gas, dining, and more.
   The rewards earned can be redeemed as Athleta Reward Certificates that can be used to make purchases at Athleta stores or on their website. These certificates can be a great way to save money on your next activewear purchase.
2. Welcome Bonus: New cardholders can enjoy a welcome bonus upon signing up for the card. Typically, the bonus comes in the form of a large points reward after spending a certain amount on purchases within the first few months of card membership. This bonus can significantly boost the rewards balance, making it easier to use those points for discounts at Athleta.
3. Exclusive Offers and Discounts: As an Athleta Rewards Mastercard® cardholder, you’ll have access to exclusive promotions and discounts that are not available to non-cardholders. These promotions can include limited-time sales, special product releases, and additional discounts on Athleta merchandise. These offers make it even easier to get your hands on the latest activewear trends at a discounted price.
4. No Annual Fee: Unlike many credit cards that charge an annual fee, the Athleta Rewards Mastercard® comes with no annual fee, which makes it a cost-effective option for those who want to earn rewards without the added expense. This feature is particularly attractive for cardholders who don’t want to be burdened by additional costs.
5. Birthday Gift: One of the unique perks of the Athleta Rewards Mastercard® is the birthday gift that cardholders receive each year. This gift often comes in the form of a special discount or reward points, allowing you to celebrate your special day with some savings on Athleta merchandise.
6. Access to Special Events: Athleta cardholders may also gain access to exclusive events and experiences, such as fitness classes, brand launch parties, or online workshops. These events often provide a great opportunity to engage with the brand and the larger fitness community while also earning rewards or discounts.
7. Mastercard Benefits: As a Mastercard product, the Athleta Rewards Mastercard® also comes with all the standard Mastercard benefits, such as:
   • Zero Liability Protection: Protection against unauthorized purchases made with your card.
   • Purchase Protection: Coverage for eligible purchases if they are damaged or stolen.
   • Extended Warranty: An extension of the manufacturer’s warranty on eligible items.
8. No Foreign Transaction Fees: The Athleta Rewards Mastercard® does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it an excellent choice for those who travel internationally or make purchases from international retailers. This can help you avoid the typical 3% fee that many credit cards charge on foreign transactions.

How to Apply for the Athleta Rewards Mastercard®

Applying for the Athleta Rewards Mastercard® is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Check Your Eligibility: Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements:
   • You must be at least 18 years old.
   • You need to have a U.S. address and be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
   • A good to excellent credit score (usually 670 and above) is typically required to be approved for the card.
   If you meet these requirements, you’re ready to apply.
2. Gather Necessary Information: When applying, you will need to provide the following information:
   • Your full name, address, and contact details.
   • Your Social Security number for identity verification.
   • Your employment and income information.
   • Your monthly housing payment (either rent or mortgage).
3. Submit Your Application: You can apply for the Athleta Rewards Mastercard® online through the Barclays website or the Athleta site. The application process is quick and usually takes just a few minutes to complete. If you prefer, you can also apply in-store at participating Athleta locations.
4. Approval Process: After you submit your application, Barclays will review your credit history and financial situation to determine your eligibility for the card. If approved, you will receive your card in the mail, typically within 7-10 business days. You will also be notified if your application was not successful.
5. Activate Your Card: Once you receive your Athleta Rewards Mastercard®, you will need to activate it before using it. Activation can be done online, through the Barclays mobile app, or by calling customer service.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the Athleta Rewards Mastercard® offers great rewards and benefits, there are a few things to be aware of:

• Interest Rates: The card comes with an APR for purchases, balance transfers, and cash advances. Be sure to pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
• Late Fees: Missing a payment can result in late fees. It’s important to keep track of your payment due dates to avoid penalties.
• Rewards Expiration: Be sure to use your earned rewards before they expire. Check the terms and conditions of your rewards program to understand when points expire.

Final Thoughts on the Athleta Rewards Mastercard®

The Athleta Rewards Mastercard® is a fantastic option for those who regularly shop at Athleta and other Gap Inc. brands. With the ability to earn 5% back on purchases at Athleta, 1% on other purchases, and access to exclusive discounts and offers, it provides excellent value for loyal customers. Additionally, the absence of an annual fee and the extra benefits such as a birthday gift and access to special events make this card even more attractive.

If you’re an Athleta shopper and want to earn rewards for your purchases while enjoying a range of other benefits, the Athleta Rewards Mastercard® is certainly worth considering. Apply today and start enjoying the rewards of your shopping and fitness lifestyle.