Fair Value Measurements Impairment Policy (Policies)

9 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2015

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]

Long-Lived Assets Impairment Policy

The carrying value of long-lived assets is periodically reviewed by the Company whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that a potential impairment has occurred. For long-lived assets held for use, a potential impairment has occurred if projected future undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying value of the assets. The estimate of cash flows includes management’s assumptions of cash inflows and outflows directly resulting from the use of those assets in operations. When a potential impairment has occurred, an impairment write-down is recorded if the carrying value of the

long-lived asset exceeds its fair value.

The Company has announced a plan to dispose of certain underperforming Macy’s stores before the end of their previously estimated useful lives as the Company works to optimize its omnichannel approach to customers across America. As a result, impairment reviews of the Company’s long-lived assets were required and estimated cash flows have been revised accordingly. As part of this impairment review during the third quarter of 2015, long-lived assets held and used with a carrying value of $150 million were written down to their fair value of $39 million, resulting in asset impairment charges of $111 million. Additionally, related liabilities will arise such as severance, contractual obligations and other accruals associated with store closings when the final determination is made regarding which Macy’s stores will be closed. The Company estimates these liabilities based on the facts and circumstances in existence for each restructuring decision. The amounts the Company will ultimately realize or disburse could differ from the amounts assumed in arriving at the asset impairment charges recorded and any restructuring charge recorded in the future.

The Company believes its estimated cash flows are sufficient to support the carrying value of its long-lived assets. If estimated cash flows significantly differ in the future, the Company may be required to record additional asset impairment write-downs.