Discover it Cash Back Review

Earn 5% back in rotating categories and enjoy unmatched first-year cashback matching.

The Discover it Cash Back card is designed for individuals who want to earn rewards on their everyday expenses without hassle. With rotating 5% cashback categories that reflect real-life spending habits—like grocery runs, gas fill-ups, or streaming subscriptions—this card makes it easy to earn on what matters most. The first-year Cashback Match is a standout perk, doubling all rewards earned during the first 12 months.

This card also features a user-friendly mobile app, robust account protections, and award-winning U.S.-based customer support. From spending power to security, the Discover it Cash Back card delivers a seamless, rewarding experience for cardholders.

Turn Daily Purchases Into Smart Savings

1. Quarterly 5% Cashback Categories

Every quarter, Discover offers new 5% cashback categories that cardholders can activate. These typically include places people shop most, like grocery stores, restaurants, or gas stations. The rotating setup allows users to align their card usage with the season’s most common purchases.

2. 1% on All Other Spending

Even when users aren’t spending within the bonus categories, every other eligible purchase still earns 1% unlimited cashback. Whether paying for a subscription, a phone bill, or everyday essentials, the card ensures continuous earnings.

3. Double Cashback in the First Year

New cardmembers benefit from Discover’s exclusive Cashback Match offer. All cashback earned in the first 12 months is automatically matched at the end of the year. This means someone who earns $150 in rewards will receive an additional $150 from Discover.

4. Flexible Redemption Choices

Cardholders can choose how to redeem their cashback—whether as a statement credit, bank deposit, charitable donation, or payment at select online retailers. There are no limits on redemption frequency or types.

5. No Redemption Minimums

Cashback can be redeemed at any amount, providing instant access to rewards. This is especially beneficial for those who prefer regular redemptions or want to use rewards for monthly bill offsets.

6. Award-Winning Customer Support

Discover offers U.S.-based support that’s consistently rated among the best in the industry. Whether it’s a billing issue or general question, customers can expect professional and helpful service.

7. Track Your Credit Score

Each month, Discover provides free FICO Score access. Monitoring this score helps users stay on top of their credit health and take action when needed.

8. Instant Freeze Option

If the card is misplaced or stolen, the Freeze It tool allows users to temporarily block new transactions. This can be done in seconds via the mobile app, reducing stress and risk.

9. Shop Abroad with Confidence

The card does not charge foreign transaction fees, allowing cardholders to shop internationally or while traveling without worrying about extra costs.

Qualification Requirements

1. Legal Age: Applicants must be 18 or older, or meet the age of majority in their state of residence.

2. U.S. Residency: Only U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents with a valid Social Security number are eligible.

3. Positive Credit Profile: A FICO Score in the good to excellent range (typically 670 or higher) improves the chance of approval. Discover performs a hard inquiry upon application.

4. Consistent Income: Applicants need to show they have a stable income source to handle monthly payments and any balances carried.

5. Clean Financial History: Those with a bankruptcy or pattern of late payments may find approval challenging. Discover values a track record of responsible borrowing.

6. Limited Recent Credit Applications: Too many recent credit inquiries can reduce the likelihood of approval. A clean application history is preferred.

How to Apply

1. Go to Discover’s Official Website: Visit the secure application page and locate the Discover it Cash Back card. Click on the “Apply Now” button to begin.

2. Fill Out the Application Form: Provide details such as name, address, Social Security number, income, and housing costs. This information is used to assess creditworthiness.

3. Review Card Terms: Before submitting, take time to read the terms of use, interest rates, fees (if any), and card benefits. Understanding the product is crucial.

4. Submit the Application: Click “Submit” to complete the process. Many applicants receive a decision in seconds, although some cases may require further review.

5. Follow Up on Additional Requests: If more documentation is needed to verify identity or income, Discover will contact the applicant. Prompt responses help speed up processing.

6. Activate the Card: Once approved and the card is received, users can activate it online or via the Discover app. After activation, rewards begin immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the 5% cashback work?

Each quarter, Discover designates new 5% cashback categories. Cardholders must activate them to earn on purchases within those areas, up to a set quarterly limit.

What is Cashback Match and do I have to sign up?

Cashback Match is automatically applied to new accounts. All cashback earned in the first 12 months is matched at the end of that period—no enrollment required.

Can I lose my cashback if I don’t use it?

No. Cashback does not expire, provided the account remains open and in good standing.

What if I don’t want to track rotating categories?

Even without using the 5% categories, cardholders still earn unlimited 1% on all purchases. So every transaction provides some return.