Office jobs often require you to maintain a professional image. And while dress codes aren't as strict as they used to be, it never hurts to look sharp. If you're interviewing for jobs or about to start with a new employer, you may need to upgrade your wardrobe.
Some credit cards can save you money at clothing retailers. Here are three credit cards to help you dress for the office.
1. Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express
Rewards: 6% cash back on up to $6,000 in annual spending at US supermarkets; 3% cash back at US gas stations and eligible department stores; 1% cash back on other purchases.
Sign-Up Bonus: $200 bonus statement credit if you spend $1,000 in the first three months.
Annual Fee: $95
Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 0% APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers, then variable 13.99% to 24.99% APR.
Why We Picked It: You can earn fantastic cash back rates at the right department stores.
For Office Clothes: With 3% cash back at 16 department stores, you have plenty of shopping options. Participating stores include Dillard's, Kohl's, Lord & Taylor, Macy's, and Neiman Marcus.
Drawbacks: You'll pay a $95 annual fee.
2. Chase Freedom
Rewards: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in purchases each quarter on rotating spending categories; 1% cash back on other purchases.
Sign-Up Bonus: $150 bonus cash if you spend $500 in the first three months.
Annual Fee: $0
APR: 0% APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then variable 15.99% to 24.74% APR.
Why We Picked It: For the rest of 2017, you'll earn a whopping 5% cash back on eligible clothing purchases.
For Office Clothes: Through the end of this quarter, Chase's bonus category is Walmart and department store purchases. You'll earn 5% cash back when you stock your wardrobe at these retailers.
Drawbacks: You don't have much time before the spending category changes.
3. Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card
Rewards: 5% back at Amazon.com; 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores; 1% back on other purchases.
Sign-Up Bonus: $70 Amazon.com gift card.
Annual Fee: $0 with paid Amazon Prime membership.
APR: Variable 15.24% to 23.24% APR on purchases and balance transfers.
Why We Picked It: Any clothes and accessories you order from Amazon.com will earn up to 5% back.
For Office Clothes: Amazon.com stocks clothes, shoes, jewelry, accessories, and everything in between. Amazon Prime members will earn 5% back on all eligible orders placed with Amazon.com—and rewards can be redeemed for future purchases, so you can continue to update your look.
Drawbacks: If you prefer to try your clothes on in the store, this card isn't a good fit.