How to Get the Most Out of Your Discover it Cash Back Credit Card

Choosing the perfect credit card can feel like picking the right tool for the job, you want one that fits your lifestyle and spending habits seamlessly. The Discover it Cash Back Credit Card is a standout option, offering impressive rewards on everyday purchases and making it easier to earn while you spend. With an impressive 5% cash back on rotating categories and unlimited 1% on all other purchases, this card stands out among its competitors.

Plus, there’s no annual fee, making it an excellent option for those who want to earn rewards without extra costs. In this guide, we’ll break down all the benefits, fees, and steps to apply, so you can make the most of this powerful rewards card.

Why the Discover it Cash Back Card Stands Out

Maximize Your Rewards with Rotating 5% Cash Back

One of the standout features of the Discover it Cash Back Credit Card is its 5% cash back on rotating categories that change every quarter. These categories often include everyday expenses like gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and online shopping at major retailers. To take advantage of this, you need to activate the bonus categories each quarter through your Discover account.

• Q1: Grocery stores, fitness clubs, and gym memberships
• Q2: Gas stations, wholesale clubs, and select streaming services
• Q3: Restaurants and PayPal purchases
• Q4: Amazon.com, Target, and Walmart.com

Outside of these bonus categories, you still earn 1% cash back on all other purchases, with no limits or expiration on rewards.

Double Your Rewards in the First Year

One of the biggest perks of this card is Discover’s Cashback Match, where they double all the cash back you earn in your first year. That means if you earn $200 in cash back, Discover will match it, bringing your total to $400. This is an excellent benefit that most other cash-back cards don’t offer.

Say Goodbye to Extra Fees

• $0 annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees, making it great for international purchases
• No late fee on your first missed payment
• No penalty APR for late payments

Bonus Features That Make a Difference

• FICO® Score for free: Monitor your credit score through your Discover account.
• 24/7 customer service based in the U.S.
• Freeze It® feature: Instantly freeze your card to prevent unauthorized transactions.
• Tap to pay: Use contactless payments for a faster checkout.

What You Should Know Before Signing Up

Is Your Credit Score High Enough?

To qualify for the Discover it Cash Back Credit Card, you typically need a good to excellent credit score (700+). However, Discover considers additional factors such as income, debt-to-income ratio, and overall credit history, so applicants with slightly lower scores may still have a chance of approval. If your score is lower, you may want to work on improving it before applying.

Don’t Forget to Activate Bonus Categories

While the 5% cash back is generous, you must activate each quarter’s categories to receive the higher rate. If you forget to activate, you’ll only earn 1% on those purchases.

Planning to Travel? Read This First

Discover is widely accepted in the U.S., but some international merchants do not accept Discover cards. If you travel frequently, you may need a backup card like Visa or Mastercard.

Understanding the Costs: Fees & Interest Rates

• Annual Fee: $0
• Regular APR: 16.99% – 27.99% variable
• Balance Transfer Fee: 3% intro fee, then 5%
• Cash Advance Fee: 5% or $10 (whichever is greater)
• Late Payment Fee: Up to $41 after first missed payment

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for the Discover it Cash Back Card

Apply Online in Minutes

• Visit the Discover website at:

• Click on the “Apply Now” button.

• Fill out the application form with your personal information, including name, address, and Social Security Number (SSN).
• Provide financial details, such as your annual income, employment status, and monthly housing costs.
• Review the terms and conditions carefully before submitting your application.
• Click Submit, and you may receive an instant decision. If Discover needs more time to review your application, they will notify you within a few business days via email or mail.

Prefer to Talk? Apply by Phone

If you prefer applying over the phone, you can:

1. Call Discover customer service at 1-800-DISCOVER (1-800-347-2683).
2. Provide your personal and financial details to the representative.
3. Follow the instructions and wait for an application decision, which may be instant or take a few business days.

What to Do If Your Application Is Pending

If your application is not approved immediately, you can:

• Check your email or mail for further instructions from Discover.
• Call customer service to check your application status.
• Make sure you’ve provided accurate and up-to-date information to avoid delays.

Need Help? Here’s How to Contact Discover

For support or questions, you can reach Discover through the following channels:

• Customer Service: 1-800-DISCOVER (1-800-347-2683)
• Website: www.discover.com
• Mobile App: Available for iOS and Android
• Live Chat: Accessible via your online account

Your Questions Answered: Discover it Cash Back FAQs

1. Do I need to activate my 5% cash back categories every quarter?

Yes, you must activate the categories through your Discover account to earn the 5% cash back each quarter.

2. Does Discover charge foreign transaction fees?

No, the Discover it Cash Back Credit Card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it a great option for international purchases.

3. How does Discover’s Cashback Match work?

At the end of your first year, Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned—automatically and with no limit.

4. What credit score do I need to apply?

You typically need a good to excellent credit score (700+) to qualify for this card.

Final Verdict: Should You Get the Discover it Cash Back Card??

The Discover it Cash Back Credit Card is an excellent choice for those who want to earn high rewards on everyday spending without paying an annual fee. Compared to the Chase Freedom Flex℠, which also offers 5% cash back on rotating categories but comes with a more complex rewards structure, Discover’s Cashback Match makes it more attractive in the first year. If you prefer a simpler, consistent cash back model, the Citi® Double Cash Card might be a better alternative with unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases.

However, for those who love maximizing category-based rewards, Discover’s offer is hard to beat. With 5% cash back on rotating categories, no foreign transaction fees, and first-year Cashback Match, this card offers great value. However, you’ll need to remember to activate bonus categories each quarter, and international acceptance is limited.

If you’re looking for a card that maximizes rewards while keeping costs low, this could be a great fit for your wallet.