Apply for Ulta Beauty Credit Card
Apply for Ulta Beauty Credit Card: If you’re someone who finds themselves walking out of Ulta Beauty with a bag full of skincare, makeup, or hair products more often than not, the Ulta Beauty Credit Card might be your new best friend. Issued by Comenity Bank, this card is designed to reward loyal shoppers with exclusive perks, rewards points, and even special financing options depending on which version you choose.
Ulta offers two types of credit cards: a store-only Ulta Beauty Credit Card, and the Ulta Beauty Mastercard, which can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted. The basic store card is perfect for Ulta loyalists who only want to rack up points within the brand, while the Mastercard version extends your reward-earning potential to all your everyday purchases.
This card is directly tied to Ulta’s Ultamate Rewards Program, meaning every dollar you spend earns you points that you can redeem for discounts on future purchases. From birthday gifts to double point days and early access to sales, it adds a layer of luxury to your regular shopping experience.
Whether you’re a makeup junkie or just getting started on your beauty journey, the Ulta Beauty Credit Card is worth exploring for its convenience, savings, and ability to turn your spending into something rewarding.
Types of Ulta Credit Cards Available
When it comes to Ulta’s credit card offerings, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. You get to choose between two main types, depending on how you like to shop.
- Ulta Beauty Credit Card (Store Card):
- Can only be used at Ulta Beauty locations and online.
- Offers 20% off your first Ulta purchase after account opening.
- Earns points via the Ultamate Rewards system.
- Ulta Beauty Mastercard:
- Can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
- In addition to Ulta-specific rewards, you earn points on everyday purchases like gas and groceries.
- Includes all the perks of the store card plus additional Mastercard benefits like travel assistance, ID theft protection, and more.
Both cards are connected to your Ultamate Rewards account, which means more ways to build up your points and unlock savings. The Mastercard version provides a bit more flexibility for those who want to integrate Ulta rewards into their day-to-day life.
Benefits of Having an Ulta Beauty Credit Card
Rewards and Loyalty Perks
The biggest draw of an Ulta Beauty Credit Card? The rewards! Let’s break it down so you know exactly what you’re signing up for.
When you sign up for either version of the card, you’re automatically enrolled in Ultamate Rewards, Ulta’s loyalty program. Every time you swipe your card at Ulta, you’re not just buying—you’re earning. For every dollar spent at Ulta Beauty stores or online, you earn 2 points per $1. And if you have the Mastercard, you also earn 1 point per $3 spent outside of Ulta.
The point system is simple and actually adds up fast:
- 100 points = $3 off
- 250 points = $8 off
- 500 points = $17.50 off
- 750 points = $30 off
- 1000 points = $50 off
Plus, cardholders get extra perks:
- 20% off your first purchase.
- Exclusive emails with discounts and deals.
- Access to special events.
- Bonus points opportunities throughout the year.
This credit card works in perfect harmony with Ultamate Rewards tiers—especially beneficial if you’re at the Platinum or Diamond level, where benefits multiply with every swipe.
Exclusive Offers and Financing Options
Besides rewards, Ulta also throws in some exclusive promotions that are only available to credit cardholders. Think of things like:
- Special financing offers during big events or holidays.
- Early access to new product launches.
- Birthday gifts and bonus point opportunities.
If you’re planning a big beauty haul, certain times of the year offer no-interest financing on purchases over a specific amount. Just make sure to read the fine print—these promotions are great, but you need to pay off the balance in full before the promo period ends to avoid retroactive interest.
You’ll also get those surprise bonus points days where using your card can yield double or triple the usual rewards. These stack on top of existing rewards, giving you even more bang for your buck.
Eligibility Criteria
Age and Residency Requirements
Before you start filling out that application, let’s make sure you check the basic boxes. To be eligible for an Ulta Beauty Credit Card, you need to:
- Be at least 18 years old (19 in Alabama and Nebraska).
- Have a valid U.S. address (no P.O. Boxes).
- Possess a valid government-issued ID.
- Provide a Social Security Number or Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).
These are pretty standard requirements and ensure that you’re legally allowed to open a line of credit in the United States.
Credit Score and Financial Criteria
Let’s talk credit. The Ulta Credit Card isn’t necessarily the most difficult to get, but it’s still a real credit card—not a store debit card—so your credit history matters.
While Comenity Bank doesn’t publicly list the minimum credit score required, based on consumer feedback:
- You’ll likely need a credit score of at least 620 to get approved for the store card.
- For the Ulta Beauty Mastercard, a score of 670+ is typically preferred.
That said, your approval isn’t based on score alone. Other factors include:
- Your debt-to-income ratio
- Payment history
- Existing credit lines
If you’ve been managing your credit well—paying bills on time, keeping balances low, and not applying for too many cards—you’re probably in good shape.
Documents You Need Before Applying
Identity Verification Documents
Before you even start your Ulta Beauty Credit Card application, make sure you’ve got your paperwork in order. Like any credit card, Ulta—through Comenity Bank—needs to verify your identity to comply with federal banking regulations. It’s nothing too complex, but gathering everything in advance can save you time and avoid unnecessary delays.
Here’s what you typically need:
- Government-issued photo ID: This could be your driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): This helps verify your identity and pull your credit report.
- Date of Birth: To confirm you meet the age requirement.
- Residential Address: Must be a physical U.S. address (no P.O. boxes accepted).
Make sure everything matches exactly as it appears in your official records. Even a small mismatch—like a missing middle name—can trigger verification issues or even a denial.
Financial Information
Alongside verifying who you are, Comenity Bank will also need a bit of financial information to evaluate your ability to manage a credit card. Don’t worry, you don’t need to provide a pile of tax returns, but they will ask for:
- Annual income: This includes wages, salaries, side hustle income, alimony, child support (if you choose to report it), or retirement income.
- Monthly housing payments: Whether you rent or own, this helps determine your debt-to-income ratio.
- Employment status: Some applications ask for employer details or the nature of your income.
Having these details handy before applying helps speed up the process and ensures there are no hiccups when your application is reviewed.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Ulta Beauty Credit Card
Applying Online Through Ulta Website
Applying online is probably the easiest and fastest way to get your Ulta Beauty Credit Card. Here’s how you can do it in just a few clicks:
- Visit the Ulta Credit Card Page: Go to Ulta’s official website and scroll to the footer. Click on “Ulta Beauty Credit Card.”
- Choose Your Card: Decide whether you want the Ulta Credit Card or the Ulta Mastercard. If you’re unsure, you’ll automatically be considered for the Mastercard first and then the store card if you don’t qualify.
- Fill in the Application: You’ll be redirected to Comenity Bank’s secure application form. Provide all necessary info:
- Full name
- Address
- Phone number
- SSN/ITIN
- Income details
- Review Terms and Conditions: Make sure to read the fine print, including APR, fees, and your privacy rights.
- Submit Your Application: Click submit and wait for your decision, which usually appears instantly.
You may receive an instant decision, or you might be told that your application is under review, in which case you’ll receive a response via email or mail in 7-10 business days.
In-Store Application Process
Not a fan of applying online? No problem—you can also apply in person at any Ulta Beauty store. Here’s how:
- Walk into an Ulta Store: Head to the checkout or customer service desk and ask to apply for a credit card.
- Fill Out the Application on a Tablet: The associate will guide you through the application process using an in-store device.
- Submit and Get a Decision: Just like online, you may get approved instantly and be able to use the card for your current purchase to unlock that first-time 20% discount.
One advantage of applying in-store is that you can ask questions right away and get help from the staff if you’re unsure about anything.
What to Expect After Submission
After submitting your application, here are the possible outcomes:
- Instant Approval: You’ll see a screen with your approval message and temporary card number.
- Pending: Your application may need further review. This typically takes a few days, and you’ll get a response by mail.
- Denied: If you’re denied, Comenity Bank will send you an Adverse Action Notice explaining why, usually based on credit history, income, or identity verification issues.
If approved, your card will be mailed to you within 7–10 business days. You’ll also receive details on how to register your account online and start earning those sweet rewards.
Approval Process
How Long Does It Take?
Speed is one of the perks of applying for an Ulta Beauty Credit Card. Most applications are processed instantly, and you’ll know whether you’re approved within a few seconds to a couple of minutes. However, not everyone gets an immediate answer.
If your application requires manual review, it may take 7–10 business days to hear back. In that case, keep an eye on your email and mailbox for official communication from Comenity Bank.
Once approved, here’s what to expect:
- Physical card delivery within 10 days.
- Online account setup instructions.
- The chance to start earning rewards immediately using a temporary card number (if shopping in-store).
Common Reasons for Application Denial
Getting denied for a credit card can be frustrating, but it’s not the end of the world. Here are a few common reasons applicants are turned down:
- Low credit score: If your score is below 620, your odds aren’t great.
- Limited credit history: Comenity prefers applicants with a bit of history to evaluate.
- High debt-to-income ratio: If you’re using a large portion of your available credit, that’s a red flag.
- Recent delinquencies or bankruptcies: Negative marks on your credit report can be a dealbreaker.
- Incorrect or mismatched information: Even a small typo in your name or address can trigger an auto-denial.
If you’re denied, don’t stress. You’ll get a notice in the mail with the reason. Take some time to improve your credit, correct any reporting errors, or pay down debt, and try again in a few months.
Managing Your Ulta Credit Card
Setting Up Your Online Account
Once you’re approved and receive your card, you’ll want to set up your Comenity Bank online account ASAP. This is where you’ll manage everything—from checking your balance to making payments and tracking rewards.
Here’s how to get started:
- Visit the Comenity Ulta Card Portal: Head over to comenity.net/ultamaterewards.
- Register Your Account: Click “Register Now” and enter your card number, ZIP code, and the last four digits of your SSN.
- Create a Username and Password: Choose something secure that you’ll remember.
- Set Up Security Questions: These help protect your account from unauthorized access.
- Log In and Explore: You can now view statements, make payments, set up alerts, and see how many rewards points you’ve racked up.
Make it a habit to log in monthly to check for suspicious activity, confirm payment postings, and keep tabs on those points.
Making Payments and Checking Balance
Paying your Ulta credit card is easy and can be done in several ways:
- Online via the Comenity Bank portal.
- By mail using the address on your billing statement.
- Via phone through the customer service line.
- Automatic payments: Set these up to ensure you never miss a due date.
When it comes to keeping your balance in check, remember:
- Interest rates on store cards can be high (APR usually ranges from 26–30%), so try to pay off your balance in full every month.
- Your payment due date will be listed on your monthly statement—mark it in your calendar or set an alert.
Late payments come with a hefty fee (often $40 or more), and missed payments can negatively impact your credit score. Be responsible, and your Ulta card will reward you generously.
Maximizing Your Ulta Credit Card Benefits
Combining with Ultamate Rewards
If you’re using the Ulta Beauty Credit Card without taking advantage of the Ultamate Rewards program, you’re leaving money on the table. Here’s the good news: signing up for the credit card automatically connects you to Ultamate Rewards, but the real magic happens when you learn how to strategically use both.
Let’s break it down:
- You earn 2 points per $1 when shopping at Ulta with your credit card.
- Regular Ultamate Rewards members earn 1 point per $1, but if you’re a Platinum or Diamond tier member, you get 1.25 or 1.5 points per dollar respectively.
- Combine that with bonus point events, birthday gifts, and exclusive double-point days, and you’re looking at a treasure chest of rewards stacking up in no time.
Here’s how to get the most from this combo:
- Shop during promotional events: Look out for emails that advertise double or even triple points.
- Plan big purchases around these promotions.
- Redeem points smartly: 100 points = $3 off, but the higher your redemption, the better the value (e.g., 1,000 points = $50 off).
Also, always check your account dashboard for bonus point offers you can activate with one click. These are often targeted and time-sensitive, perfect for savvy shoppers who know when to strike.
Strategic Shopping Tips
Want to really play the beauty game like a pro? Use your Ulta Beauty Credit Card smartly with these shopping hacks:
- Split Your Transactions: Got a mix of drugstore and prestige brands? Split them into two purchases and redeem points on lower-priced items. This way, you maximize the discount effect.
- Stack Coupons with Points: Yes, Ulta lets you use manufacturer coupons and redeem points in the same transaction.
- Birthday Month Bonanza: During your birthday month, Ulta showers you with gifts and bonus points—make your biggest purchases then.
- Use Your Mastercard Outside Ulta: For those with the Ulta Beauty Mastercard, rack up even more points on gas, groceries, and dining.
A little strategy goes a long way. With a well-timed purchase and an eye on promo emails, you can turn every swipe into serious savings.
Understanding the Fees and Interest Rates
Annual Fees and APR Details
One of the standout perks of the Ulta Beauty Credit Card is that there’s no annual fee. That’s right—zero, nada, zip. You can keep the card open year-round without worrying about an extra charge just for having it.
But let’s talk about the not-so-glamorous side: interest rates.
- Standard Purchase APR is typically around 29.99% variable APR, which is common for retail credit cards.
- If you carry a balance month-to-month, the interest will add up fast—so try to pay it off in full every month.
Here’s a quick table to break down the key charges:
Fee Type | Amount |
---|---|
Annual Fee | $0 |
APR (Annual Percentage Rate) | ~29.99% (variable) |
Late Payment Fee | Up to $41 |
Returned Payment Fee | Up to $30 |
Minimum Payment Due | Usually around $27 or 1% of your balance |
Important note: Special financing offers (like 0% interest for 6 months) are sometimes available. These are useful for big purchases, but be aware—if you don’t pay off the full balance by the end of the promo period, you’ll be charged interest retroactively on the original amount.
Late Fees and Penalties
Let’s be honest—life happens. You miss a due date, your auto-pay fails, or you just forget. But with credit cards, that mistake comes with a price.
Here’s what you’re looking at:
- Late Payment Fee: Up to $41 for missing your due date.
- Penalty APR: While Ulta’s card doesn’t currently have a separate penalty APR, persistent missed payments could lead to a lowered credit limit or account closure.
Missed payments don’t just cost you money—they can also hurt your credit score, especially if you go 30 days or more without paying. This affects your ability to qualify for loans, other credit cards, and even things like apartment rentals.
To avoid penalties:
- Set up autopay or payment reminders.
- Pay more than the minimum to reduce your balance faster.
- Check your billing cycle so you know exactly when your due date falls.
Security Features and Fraud Protection
How Ulta Protects Your Info
Let’s face it—credit card fraud is real, and protecting your financial information is more important than ever. Fortunately, Ulta’s credit card (backed by Comenity Bank and Mastercard) comes with built-in security features to help keep you safe.
Here’s how they’ve got your back:
- 24/7 Fraud Monitoring: Your card activity is monitored in real-time for suspicious transactions.
- Zero Liability Protection: If your card is lost or stolen, you’re not responsible for unauthorized purchases.
- Secure Online Access: The Comenity Bank portal uses encryption and secure login to protect your data.
If something fishy is detected, you’ll likely receive a text, email, or call right away asking you to verify the activity. In many cases, they’ll block the card and issue you a new one to prevent further damage.
Tips for Keeping Your Card Safe
While Ulta and Comenity do their part, you’ve got a role to play too. Here are some practical tips to stay secure:
- Never share your card number over email or text.
- Use strong passwords for your online account.
- Enable transaction alerts to get notified every time your card is used.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing your account online.
- Keep your contact info updated so they can reach you in case of fraud.
If your card is ever lost or stolen, report it immediately by calling Comenity Bank customer service. The sooner you act, the faster you can stop fraudulent charges and get a replacement card.
How to Cancel or Close Your Card
Steps to Cancel Ulta Credit Card
Maybe you’ve decided to simplify your finances or switch to another card. Whatever the reason, closing your Ulta Credit Card is simple—but you should do it wisely.
Here’s how:
- Pay off your balance in full. You can’t close the card with an outstanding balance.
- Redeem any remaining points before canceling. Once the account is closed, unused points may be forfeited.
- Call Customer Service: Contact Comenity Bank at the number on the back of your card and request to cancel.
- Ask for written confirmation of account closure.
- Check your credit report after 30 days to ensure the account reflects “closed at consumer’s request.”
Remember: closing a credit card can slightly impact your credit utilization ratio, so consider this if you’re planning to apply for a mortgage or auto loan soon.
Should You Keep or Cancel?
Before you cut up that card, ask yourself:
- Do I use this card enough to make the rewards worth it?
- Is it my oldest credit line? (Closing it could hurt your credit age.)
- Am I paying interest or carrying a balance?
- Do I shop at Ulta frequently enough to benefit from the perks?
If you’re not using the card often and it’s not your longest-held account, closing it might make sense. But if it helps boost your credit score, offers rewards, and doesn’t have an annual fee, it might be worth keeping in your wallet—even if you only use it occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ulta Credit Card
Where Can I Use My Ulta Credit Card?
It depends on which version of the card you have:
- If you have the Ulta Beauty Credit Card (store card), you can only use it at Ulta stores or on ulta.com. It’s limited in scope, but great for those who are loyal to the Ulta brand.
- If you have the Ulta Beauty Mastercard, you can use it anywhere Mastercard is accepted—that includes grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and even online retailers. Every eligible dollar spent earns points, so you can rack up rewards fast whether you’re buying lipstick or lunch.
And don’t forget—when you use your Mastercard outside of Ulta, you earn 1 point per $3 spent, which still helps build up your Ultamate Rewards stash.
Can I Apply with a Low Credit Score?
You can definitely try, but approval depends on multiple factors. Typically, Comenity Bank prefers applicants with at least a fair credit score (around 620) for the store-only card, and a good score (above 670) for the Mastercard version.
That said, if your credit history is limited or you’ve had a few bumps in the road, don’t count yourself out completely. Some people with lower scores have reported getting approved, especially if they have:
- A stable income
- Low existing debt
- No recent delinquencies
If your application gets denied, use that as an opportunity to improve your score. Pay off existing debts, check your credit report for errors, and try again in a few months.
Customer Support and Help Options
Contacting Comenity Bank
Your Ulta Credit Card is issued by Comenity Bank, and they’re the go-to team for any account-related help. Whether you need to dispute a charge, reset your password, or ask about your balance, Comenity’s customer service can help.
Here’s how to reach them:
- Phone Support: The number is on the back of your card, typically 1-866-257-9195.
- Online: Visit comenity.net/ultamaterewards and log in to manage your account or send secure messages.
- Mail: If you need to send in documents or correspondence, check your statement for the correct mailing address.
Customer service is available 7 days a week, and they’re usually pretty helpful with resolving common issues quickly.
Getting Help In-Store or Online
If your questions are more related to Ulta itself—like how to earn rewards or redeem points—your best bet is to:
- Visit your local Ulta store and talk to a cashier or manager.
- Use Ulta’s website to access FAQs or chat with a virtual assistant.
- Call Ulta Customer Service at 1-866-983-8582.
Combining support from both Ulta and Comenity ensures you’re never left guessing, especially when it comes to your rewards, points, or transactions.
Comparing Ulta Card with Other Beauty Retail Cards
Sephora vs. Ulta Credit Card
Ah, the age-old beauty debate: Sephora or Ulta? If you’re deciding where to put your loyalty—and your credit card applications—here’s how the cards stack up.
Ulta Beauty Credit Card:
- Earn 2 points per $1 at Ulta
- Mastercard version earns 1 point per $3 elsewhere
- Rewards go toward dollars off Ulta purchases
- Access to exclusive sales and financing
- Tied into Ultamate Rewards (widely praised for flexibility)
Sephora Credit Card:
- Earn 4% back on Sephora purchases
- Mastercard version earns 1% back elsewhere
- Rewards must be redeemed in $5 increments
- Tied into Beauty Insider program
- Also offers birthday perks and exclusive events
Both are solid, but Ulta tends to offer more drugstore and prestige variety, while Sephora is all prestige. Ulta also has a wider range of categories—like hair tools and drugstore brands—which gives its credit cardholders more ways to earn and redeem.
Which One Offers Better Value?
In terms of flexibility, broader inventory, and tier-based reward boosts, the Ulta Credit Card edges out slightly for most consumers. However, if you’re a ride-or-die Sephora lover who exclusively buys prestige brands, then Sephora’s card might suit you better.
Here’s a quick side-by-side:
Feature | Ulta Credit Card | Sephora Credit Card |
---|---|---|
In-store rewards | 2 points per $1 | 4% cashback |
Use outside store | Yes (Mastercard) | Yes (Mastercard) |
Rewards Program | Ultamate Rewards | Beauty Insider |
Redemption Flexibility | High | Moderate |
Product Range | Drugstore + Prestige | Prestige only |
Bottom line: pick the one that matches your shopping habits, not just the fancier perks.
FAQs about Applying for an Ulta Beauty Credit Card
1. How do I apply for an Ulta Beauty Credit Card?
To apply for an Ulta Beauty Credit Card, you can visit the Ulta Beauty store nearest you or apply online through their official website. The online application process is straightforward, requiring you to fill out your personal and financial information securely.
2. What are the requirements to apply for an Ulta Beauty Credit Card?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a valid government-issued photo ID, and a U.S. Social Security number. A good credit history typically improves your chances of approval, but specific requirements may vary.
3. Are there any benefits to using the Ulta Beauty Credit Card?
Yes, Ulta Beauty Credit Card holders enjoy exclusive benefits such as discounts on their first purchase, earning points on every dollar spent, and receiving no annual fee. Additionally, there are often special promotions and extra points on products throughout the year.
4. Can I use my Ulta Beauty Credit Card outside of Ulta stores?
The Ulta Beauty Credit Card is primarily for use at Ulta Beauty stores and on their website. However, if you are approved for the Ulta Beauty Mastercard, you can use it anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
5. What should I do if my application is denied?
If your application is denied, Ulta Beauty will send you a letter explaining the reasons for the denial. You are entitled to a free copy of the credit report that was used during your application process. Reviewing this can help you understand what aspects of your credit history may need improvement.
Conclusion
The Ulta Beauty Credit Card is more than just a piece of plastic—it’s a gateway to extra rewards, exclusive offers, and real savings for beauty enthusiasts. Whether you’re someone who spends modestly or you’re a regular Ulta hauler, this card can add serious value to your shopping experience.
From easy online and in-store applications to high reward potential and no annual fees, the card is a smart addition for anyone who loves stacking points and unlocking exclusive perks. That said, like any credit card, it works best when used responsibly—pay it off on time, take advantage of reward days, and don’t carry a balance if you can help it.
So, if you’re ready to turn your beauty addiction into beauty rewards, applying for the Ulta Credit Card could be the glow-up your wallet’s been waiting for.