The two ways to sign up for a Walmart credit card

Walmart offers two credit cards: the Walmart Credit Card (for use only at Walmart and Sam's Club) and the Walmart Rewards Card (a Mastercard you can use anywhere). You can sign up for either one online at walmart.com, in a Walmart store, or by phone. The online route is fastest — you'll get a decision in seconds to a few minutes. In-store signup takes about 10 minutes at customer service. By phone, you call the number on the back of a Walmart card or visit the Walmart credit card website for the phone number.

Both cards are issued by Synchrony Bank, not by Walmart itself. That matters because Synchrony handles your account, billing, and disputes — not Walmart. When you sign up, you're applying directly to Synchrony for credit, and they'll check your credit report and history to decide whether to approve you.

Key Takeaways

  • You can sign up online at walmart.com (fastest), in a Walmart store at customer service, or by phone through Synchrony Bank.
  • Online signup takes seconds to minutes; in-store takes about 10 minutes; phone signup varies but you'll speak to a representative.
  • Synchrony Bank issues both Walmart cards and handles your account, billing, and customer service — not Walmart itself.
  • You'll need your Social Security number, date of birth, income, and current address to complete any signup method.
  • If you're denied, you can ask Synchrony why and reapply after addressing the reason, though waiting several months typically improves your chances.

What information you need before you start

Have these details ready before you begin the signup process, no matter which method you choose: your Social Security number, date of birth, current address, phone number, and email address. You'll also need to provide your annual household income — this doesn't have to be exact, but it should be honest. If you're self-employed or have variable income, use an average or your best estimate for the past year.

If you're applying in a store, bring a photo ID. Online and phone applications don't require you to upload documents, but Synchrony may contact you later to verify information if something doesn't match their records.

Signing up online at walmart.com

Go to walmart.com and look for the credit card link, usually found in the footer or under "Services." You'll see both card options with their features and rewards. Click the button to apply for the card you want. The form asks for your personal information, income, and employment status. Fill it out completely — leaving fields blank will delay or deny your application.

After you submit, Synchrony will give you a decision immediately or within a few minutes. If you're approved, you'll see your credit limit and can start using the card right away for online purchases. If you're denied, the screen will tell you to contact Synchrony for the reason. If you're put on a waiting list (sometimes called "pending"), Synchrony will call or email you within a few days with a decision.

Signing up in a Walmart store

Visit the customer service desk at any Walmart and ask to apply for a Walmart credit card. A representative will give you a paper form or use a tablet to take your information. Bring your photo ID and have your Social Security number ready. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you'll get a decision before you leave the store in most cases.

If approved, you won't receive a physical card immediately — Synchrony will mail it to your address within 7 to 10 business days. You can use the card number online as soon as it's issued, even before the physical card arrives. Ask the representative for your temporary card number if you want to start shopping right away.

Signing up by phone

Call the number on the back of any Walmart credit card, or visit the Walmart credit card website to find the phone number for new cardholders. A Synchrony representative will walk you through the application over the phone. Have your information ready: Social Security number, date of birth, address, phone number, and income. The call typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.

You'll get a decision during the call or within a few business days. If approved, Synchrony will mail your card and send you account details by email. You can ask the representative for your temporary card number to use online while you wait for the physical card.

What happens after you're approved

Once Synchrony approves you, you'll receive a welcome email with your account number and a temporary card number you can use immediately for online purchases. Your physical card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Set up your online account at synchronybank.com so you can check your balance, make payments, and manage your account.

Your first statement will arrive 30 days after your first purchase. Most Walmart cards offer an introductory period with no interest on purchases if you pay in full by the due date — check your welcome materials for the exact terms. After that period ends, interest rates apply to any balance you carry.

If you're denied or put on a waiting list

If Synchrony denies your application, they'll tell you why — usually because of your credit score, credit history, or income. You can call Synchrony to ask for more detail. Common reasons include recent late payments, high existing debt, or a very short credit history. You can reapply, but waiting 3 to 6 months and improving the issue (paying down debt, fixing errors on your credit report) gives you a better chance.

If you're put on a waiting list, Synchrony is still reviewing your application. They'll contact you within a few business days with a decision. Don't apply again while you're waiting — multiple applications in a short time can hurt your chances. If you're eventually denied after being on a waiting list, the same advice applies: wait a few months and address the reason before reapplying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Walmart account to sign up for the credit card?

No. You can sign up for a Walmart credit card without a Walmart.com account. However, creating an account makes it easier to track your purchases and rewards online. You can create a Walmart account at the same time you apply for the card, or afterward.

Can I use the card before it arrives in the mail?

Yes. Once you're approved, Synchrony gives you a temporary card number you can use for online purchases immediately. You can shop at walmart.com or other retailers that accept Mastercard (if you have the Walmart Rewards Card) right away. You'll need the physical card to use it in a store.

What's the difference between the Walmart Credit Card and the Walmart Rewards Card?

The Walmart Credit Card works only at Walmart and Sam's Club. The Walmart Rewards Card is a Mastercard you can use anywhere. The Rewards Card typically has higher rewards rates but may have an annual fee. Compare the current offers on walmart.com to see which fits your spending.

How long does it take to get approved?

Online approval takes seconds to a few minutes. In-store approval usually happens before you leave the store. Phone approval happens during the call or within a few business days. If you're put on a waiting list, expect a decision within 3 to 5 business days.

What if I have bad credit or no credit history?

Synchrony considers applicants with lower credit scores, but approval isn't may provide. If you have no credit history, you may be denied or asked to provide additional information. Some people with limited credit are approved with a lower credit limit. If denied, reapply after 6 months of building credit history or paying down existing debt.