Discover it® Cash Back Credit Card

5% rewards, no fee, and first-year match.

By: rendademae

Earn 5% Cash Back on Rotating Categories

Earn 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (up to $1,500 per quarter) when you activate each quarter.

Unlimited 1% Cash Back on All Other Purchases

Unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases with no category activation required.

First-Year Cashback Match

Cashback Match: At the end of your first year as a cardholder, Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned — effectively doubling your rewards for that year.

No Annual Fee and 0% Introductory APR

$0 annual fee and a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months (then variable APR).

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About the Discover it® Cash Back Credit Card

The Discover it® Cash Back Credit Card is tailored for individuals who want strong cash-back rewards without paying an annual fee. The highlight for many cardholders is the 5% cash back in rotating quarterly categories — you must activate each quarter, and it applies to up to $1,500 in purchases per quarter in those categories. Outside of those categories, you still earn 1% cash back on every purchase. This dual-rate structure is common among rotating-category cards, but what sets this one apart is the first-year Cashback Match: at the end of your first 12 billing periods, Discover will match all of the cash back you’ve earned with no limit. That can effectively double your cash-back rate in year one. Moreover, this card offers a 0% introductory APR period (on purchases and balance transfers) for 15 months, providing added flexibility if you want to carry a balance or transfer an existing balance. The $0 annual fee means you’re not paying to earn rewards, and redemption is flexible — you can redeem rewards in any amount for statement credits, deposits, gift cards, or checkout at select merchants. Because the 5% rate applies only to selected categories (and only after activation), it requires tracking and planning if you want to maximize it. Also, after hitting the quarterly cap or if you forget to activate, your rate drops to 1% on those purchases. For someone who routinely spends in the rotating categories and keeps up with activations, the Discover it® Cash Back Credit Card offers compelling value.

What is the annual fee for the Discover it® Cash Back Credit Card?

The card carries no annual fee — it is $0 annually.
How do the rotating 5% cash-back categories work?

Each quarter, Discover publishes select spending categories (such as groceries, gas stations, restaurants, or online merchants) in which you’ll earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 of purchases in that quarter — you must activate the categories each quarter to earn the rate, and purchases beyond the cap or outside the categories earn 1%.
What is the Cashback Match offer?

At the end of your first 12 billing periods as a new cardholder, Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned — effectively doubling your rewards in year one, with no limit on how much they’ll match.
Does the card offer an introductory APR?

Yes — the card offers a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from account opening; after the intro period, a variable APR applies.
Can I redeem my cash back anytime and in any amount?

Yes — you can redeem your cash back in any amount you choose, at any time, for statement credits, direct deposit to your bank, gift cards, or selected merchant checkout options. Your rewards don’t expire as long as your account is open and in good standing.

How to Apply for the Discover it® Cash Back Credit Card

Applying for the Discover it® Cash Back Credit Card is a simple process that starts online. Visit the Discover website and locate the “Apply Now” option for the card. You’ll need to provide personal details including your full name, address, Social Security number or equivalent, date of birth, employment status, and income information. Discover typically evaluates credit history, so good to excellent credit improves your chances of approval. Once you submit your application, you may receive an instant decision or Discover may ask for additional verification. If approved, you’ll receive your new card by mail; you should activate it in the app or online, then set up your preferences. Before using the card, take note of the rotating bonus categories: you’ll need to activate them each quarter to earn the 5% cash back rate up to the limit. Also be aware of the 0% introductory APR for 15 months — this gives you time to carry a balance or transfer an existing one interest-free (subject to terms). Because this card has no annual fee, you’re free to keep it long-term, but you’ll want to use the card actively in the bonus categories to maximize its value. To get the most out of the card, use it for purchases in the quarterly categories, pay attention to the activation requirement, and redeem your rewards regularly — which you can do in any amount whenever you like.