Decoding the Cosmetics Conundrum: Can You Use a Kohl’s Card at Sephora?

No, you cannot use a Kohl’s card at Sephora. Kohl’s cards are designed for use specifically at Kohl’s department stores and on the Kohl’s website. While some Sephora locations are situated inside Kohl’s stores, they operate as separate entities, with their own payment processing systems. Therefore, a Kohl’s card is not accepted for purchases made at Sephora, even within a Kohl’s store.

Understanding the Relationship Between Kohl’s and Sephora

Kohl’s and Sephora formed a strategic partnership to bring Sephora’s beauty offerings to a wider audience. This collaboration resulted in Sephora at Kohl’s, a dedicated retail space within select Kohl’s stores. Think of it as a “store-within-a-store” concept. While physically located within Kohl’s, Sephora maintains its own brand identity, merchandise, and, crucially, payment systems.

Why the Confusion?

The presence of Sephora within Kohl’s naturally leads to questions about payment options. It’s easy to assume that a Kohl’s card would be accepted everywhere within the Kohl’s building. However, this is not the case. Sephora, even inside Kohl’s, operates with its own point-of-sale (POS) system and merchant agreements, independent of Kohl’s.

Accepted Payment Methods at Sephora at Kohl’s

When shopping at Sephora at Kohl’s, you’ll typically find that they accept the following payment methods:

• Credit Cards: Major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are almost universally accepted.
• Debit Cards: Debit cards linked to major banking networks are also widely accepted.
• Sephora Gift Cards: These are specifically for use at Sephora, including locations within Kohl’s.
• Sephora Credit Card: Sephora also offers its own branded credit card, designed for its customers.
• Cash: Cash payments are generally accepted, although it’s always a good idea to confirm with the specific store location, especially in times of public health concerns.
• Digital Wallets: Services like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are increasingly common.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Earn Kohl’s Rewards Points When Buying Sephora Products at Kohl’s?

No, you cannot directly earn Kohl’s Rewards points on Sephora purchases, even when made at a Sephora inside a Kohl’s store. The Sephora purchases are treated separately and do not qualify for Kohl’s Rewards. However, you can earn Sephora’s Beauty Insider points when shopping at Sephora, including Sephora at Kohl’s locations.

2. Can I Redeem Kohl’s Cash at Sephora at Kohl’s?

Unfortunately, Kohl’s Cash cannot be redeemed at Sephora, even if the Sephora is located inside a Kohl’s store. Kohl’s Cash is exclusively for use on purchases made directly from Kohl’s.

3. Can I Use a Sephora Gift Card at Kohl’s to Buy Other Items?

No, Sephora gift cards are not redeemable at Kohl’s for any merchandise outside of the Sephora section. They are strictly for Sephora purchases.

4. If I Return a Sephora Item Purchased at Kohl’s, Where Do I Return It?

Returns for items purchased at Sephora at Kohl’s must be processed at the Sephora within the Kohl’s store. You cannot return Sephora items at the regular Kohl’s customer service counter. Similarly, items purchased at Kohl’s cannot be returned at the Sephora inside Kohl’s.

5. What About Kohl’s Associate Discounts? Do They Apply to Sephora Purchases at Kohl’s?

Kohl’s associate discounts typically do not apply to purchases made at Sephora inside Kohl’s. Since Sephora operates as a separate entity, Kohl’s employee benefits generally don’t extend to Sephora merchandise. However, it’s always recommended to verify the current policy with your local Kohl’s store management.

6. Can I Use My Kohl’s Charge to Purchase a Sephora Gift Card?

While this might seem like a workaround, the answer is no. Kohl’s generally doesn’t allow the purchase of gift cards (including Sephora gift cards) using a Kohl’s charge card. This is a common policy across many retailers to prevent fraud and abuse.

7. What Payment Options are Available for Online Purchases from Sephora at Kohl’s?

The payment options for online purchases from Sephora at Kohl’s mirror those available in-store: major credit cards, debit cards, Sephora gift cards, the Sephora credit card, and digital wallets are typically accepted. Kohl’s charge is not an option. You will be completing your purchase through Sephora’s online system, not Kohl’s.

8. Can I Use Klarna, Afterpay, or Other “Buy Now, Pay Later” Services at Sephora at Kohl’s?

The availability of “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) services like Klarna or Afterpay depends on Sephora’s current partnerships. Check the Sephora website or the payment options presented at the time of online checkout to confirm if these services are offered. These services are generally processed separately from Kohl’s payment systems.

9. What is the Return Policy for Sephora Items Purchased at Kohl’s? Is it the Same as Kohl’s Return Policy?

The return policy for Sephora items purchased at Sephora at Kohl’s follows Sephora’s return policy, not Kohl’s. Sephora’s return policy usually includes a specified timeframe (e.g., 30 days) and conditions for returns or exchanges. Make sure to familiarize yourself with Sephora’s policy to ensure a smooth return process.

10. Are Sephora Promotions and Sales Valid at Sephora at Kohl’s Locations?

Generally, yes, Sephora promotions and sales are typically honored at Sephora at Kohl’s locations. This is because Sephora manages the inventory and pricing within its dedicated space. However, it’s always wise to double-check specific promotion details, as some exclusions might apply.

11. If I Have a Problem With a Sephora Purchase Made at Kohl’s, Who Do I Contact? Kohl’s or Sephora Customer Service?

For issues directly related to the Sephora product, transaction, or service received within the Sephora at Kohl’s location, you should contact Sephora customer service. Kohl’s customer service is generally not equipped to handle Sephora-specific inquiries.

12. Can I Use a Kohl’s Gift Card at Sephora at Kohl’s?

No, you cannot use a Kohl’s gift card to purchase items at Sephora, even within the Sephora at Kohl’s location. Kohl’s gift cards are exclusively for purchases made directly from Kohl’s. You can only use Sephora gift cards for purchases within the Sephora location.