Discover It Cash Back Review

Earn more from your daily spending with quarterly bonus categories and a powerful first-year cashback boost.

The Discover it Cash Back card offers a unique approach to earning rewards, focusing on flexibility, transparency, and maximum return for everyday purchases. It features rotating 5% cashback categories, 1% on all other purchases, and an unmatched first-year Cashback Match that essentially doubles initial earnings.

With no hidden fees and access to smart tools for managing credit health, this card is ideal for budget-conscious consumers, students, or anyone looking for a smarter way to earn rewards without adjusting their spending patterns too much.

A Card That Rewards the Way You Spend

1. 5% Back on Rotating Categories

Every quarter, cardholders can activate new categories that earn 5% cashback. These have included gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and even streaming services in past quarters. This structure ensures the card stays relevant to evolving consumer needs.

2. Unlimited 1% on Everyday Purchases

Outside the quarterly categories, cardholders earn 1% back on all other eligible purchases—automatically and with no limits. It’s an effortless way to gain rewards on everything from utilities to subscriptions.

3. Exclusive First-Year Cashback Match

Discover It Cash Back automatically matches all the cashback earned in the first 12 months. This special promotion allows new cardmembers to double their earnings without needing to track or activate anything extra.

4. Simple, Flexible Redemption

Cashback can be redeemed at any time and in various ways, including as a statement credit, direct deposit, or even toward purchases at select online retailers. There’s no expiration or restriction on how or when to redeem.

5. No Minimum to Redeem

Whether you’ve earned $1 or $100, Discover allows redemptions without minimum thresholds. This gives users more control and flexibility over how they use their rewards.

6. Top-Tier Customer Service

Discover has a strong reputation for delivering excellent customer support, all based in the U.S. Representatives are helpful, knowledgeable, and quick to resolve issues.

7. Monthly Credit Score Updates

With every billing cycle, cardholders receive access to their FICO Score. Monitoring credit helps users stay informed and develop stronger financial habits.

8. Fast Freeze It Tool

If the card is lost or suspected to be compromised, the Freeze It feature allows users to instantly pause new transactions—providing real-time protection right from the mobile app.

9. Use Internationally Without Extra Fees

There are no foreign transaction fees, making it easier and more affordable to use the card abroad or when shopping on international websites.

Qualification Requirements

1. Must Be 18 or Older: Only individuals who meet the minimum legal age requirement in their state can apply.

2. U.S. Resident Status Required: Applicants must be legal U.S. residents with a valid Social Security number.

3. Credit Score Expectations: Applicants with a FICO Score of 670 or higher typically have better approval chances. Discover does perform a hard inquiry during the process.

4. Demonstrated Income: Applicants should have a steady source of income. This helps demonstrate the ability to repay purchases made with the card.

5. No Recent Delinquencies: A clean credit history with no recent bankruptcies or missed payments improves the likelihood of approval.

6. Limited Recent Applications: Frequent recent applications for new credit could lower approval odds. It’s best to apply when credit activity has been minimal.

How to Apply

1. Visit the Discover Website: Start by accessing the Discover site and selecting the Discover it Cash Back card from the list of options.

2. Enter Application Details: Applicants must input personal and financial information including income, housing situation, and employment status.

3. Agree to Terms: Before submission, applicants should review the terms and disclosures to understand the product fully.

4. Submit the Application: Once all details are completed, submit the form. Many receive an approval decision instantly, while others may be asked for further documentation.

5. Respond to Any Additional Requests: If Discover requires additional verification, applicants should respond promptly to avoid processing delays.

6. Activate and Use the Card: Upon approval, users can activate the card online or via the app and begin earning cashback right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the current 5% cashback categories?

Categories rotate each quarter. Past examples include grocery stores, digital subscriptions, and restaurants. Discover announces them in advance, and users must activate each quarter.

Do I have to enroll in Cashback Match?

No. Discover automatically enrolls all new cardmembers in the Cashback Match program during their first year.

How long does it take to redeem rewards?

Rewards are typically available immediately and can be redeemed through the Discover app or website in just a few clicks.

Will using this card improve my credit score?

If used responsibly, yes. On-time payments and maintaining low balances can positively impact your credit profile over time.