use nordstrom gift card on nordstrom rack

You’re cleaning out your wallet and find it, a Nordstrom gift card from your birthday. You’ve been meaning to use it, and you remember that Nordstrom Rack has those great deals on brands you love. But then the question hits you: “Wait… can I even use this here?” 

If you’ve ever stood in a Nordstrom Rack store, gift card in hand, wondering the same thing, you’re not alone. It’s a common moment of confusion. The names are similar, but the stores feel different. It’s natural to assume their gift cards might be different, too. 

This guide’s got you covered, from the quick answer you’re looking for to how to check your Nordstrom balance. No more second-guessing, you’ll know exactly what to do so you can shop stress-free. 

What is a Nordstrom Gift Card? 

Think of a Nordstrom gift card as store credit that’s ready to spend at Nordstrom or Nordstrom Rack. People love giving them because it’s simple and flexible, you’re not guessing someone’s style or size, you’re letting them choose for themselves. 

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You can get a physical plastic card or an e-gift card sent straight to your email, which is perfect for a last-minute present. It’s incredibly easy to buy a gift card with a credit card online or in any store.  

These cards are designed for flexibility, and as we’ll see, that flexibility might be greater than you thought. 

Is it Possible for Nordstrom Gift Cards to Work at Nordstrom Rack? 

Yes, your Nordstrom gift card totally works at Nordstrom Rack. Think of Nordstrom as the older sibling who’s all about fine dining and champagne, and Nordstrom Rack as the younger one who shows up in sneakers, finds all the deals, and somehow makes thrift-chic look cool. Same family, same money pool—your card slides right in at both. 

So whether you’re eyeing that full-price designer bag at Nordstrom or trying to score three outfits for the same price at the Rack, your gift card’s got you covered. It’s basically a VIP pass that doesn’t care if you’re bougie or bargain-hunting that day. 

How to Use a Nordstrom Gift Card at Nordstrom Rack? 

Using your gift card is just as easy as using a credit card

At the Nordstrom Store  

  • Shop: Find your perfect pair of shoes or that new jacket. 
  • Checkout: Head to the register and let the cashier know you’d like to use a gift card. 
  • Scan: Hand them your physical card or pull up the email with your e-gift card on your phone. They’ll scan the barcode. 
  • Pay the Difference: If your gift card doesn’t cover the full total, no problem. You can pay the remaining amount with another card or cash. 

At NordstromRack.com 

  • Cart: Once you’ve finished adding items to your online cart, click “Checkout.” 
  • Payment: When you get to the payment screen, look for the box that says “Apply Gift Card.” It’s usually right near where you’d enter a credit card number. 
  • Enter Info: Type in the gift card number and the PIN code exactly as it appears on your card or in your email. Click “Apply.” 
  • Complete Order: The site will deduct that amount. If you still have a balance, you can enter your credit card info to pay the rest. 

Are There Any Restrictions on Nordstrom Gift Card? 

For the most part, these cards are straightforward, but there are a few gentle rules to know: 

No Cash Back 

You can’t walk into a store and turn your gift card balance into cash. It can only be used to buy merchandise. The only exception to this is if your state has a law that requires it for small balances. 

They Don’t Expire 

This is a great feature. You can let that card sit in your drawer for a year without worrying about it losing value. There are no monthly fees that will eat away at your balance. 

Sticking to the Family 

Your Nordstrom card won’t work at a department store that isn’t named Nordstrom. You can only use Nordstrom gift cards at Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, and their official websites.  

A lot of people wonder if Nordstrom gift cards can be used internationally. The answer’s simple—nope. Since Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack only have stores in the U.S. and Canada, the gift cards are only valid in those two countries. 

Returns 

If you need to return gift cards, the policy is firm. Nordstrom does not allow returns or refunds on gift cards themselves. If you return an item you bought with the gift card, the money will typically be put back onto a new gift card for you to use another time. 

Benefits of Using Nordstrom Gift Cards at Nordstrom Rack 

Using a Nordstrom gift card at Nordstrom Rack is a shopping superpower. Think about it: you’re using the full value of your gift card to buy items that are already discounted. It’s the best way to stretch your gift further. 

Maybe you got a $50 card. At a main Nordstrom store, that might cover one nice item. But at the Rack, that same $50 could get you two or three great finds. 

Wrapping It Up 

To wrap up, yes Nordstrom gift cards work at Nordstrom Rack, no confusion there. So if you’ve got one hiding in your wallet or collecting dust in a drawer, it’s basically free money waiting to be used. 

Take it with you next time you swing by Nordstrom Rack or hop online and scroll through the deals from your couch. Just give your balance a quick check before shopping so you know what you’re working with. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Nordstrom Rack gift card at a main Nordstrom store?

Yes! It works both ways. Cards from either store are good at both.

Can I add more money to my gift card later?

No, Nordstrom gift cards aren’t reloadable. Once the balance is used up, the card is finished.

What if my purchase costs more than what’s on the card?

This happens all the time. You can use the gift card for whatever amount it covers and then simply pay the rest with your debit card, credit card, or even cash. The system will automatically split the payment for you.