Discover It Cash Back – How to apply

By Raquel Oliveira • 03/17/2025

Discover It credit card Cash Back including generous cashback in very accessible rotating categories.

The Discover It Cash Back card is a fantastic option for those who want to earn rewards on everyday spending. With 5% rotating cashback categories and no annual fee, it’s a great way to maximize savings year-round.

A standout perk is the Cashback Match, which doubles all cashback earned in the first year. For example, if you earn $200 in cashback, Discover will match it, giving you a total of $400—automatically.

Beyond rewards, the card offers strong security features, including fraud protection and a user-friendly online management system. Whether used for groceries, dining, or travel, it ensures flexibility and steady rewards.

If you’re searching for a cashback card with no hidden fees, this could be the perfect fit. Read on to explore its features, benefits, and application process.

How does the Discover It Cashback work?

The functioning of the Discover It Cash Back It’s simple but offers a very attractive rewards structure. It is designed for consumers who want to maximize their earnings through cashback in specific categories. 

Each quarter, the card defines promotional categories, such as purchases in supermarkets, gasoline or restaurants, which guarantee a 5% cash return for consumers. 

This functionality requires activation, which offers flexibility, but also requires attention to take advantage of promotions.

In addition to the rotating categories, the card guarantees 1% cashback on all purchases outside these specific areas, allowing cardholders to continue accumulating rewards with each use. 

Main Benefits of the Discover It Cash Back

• 99 percent acceptance at merchants across the United States.
• 5 percent cash back on rotating categories, with a new selection every quarter.
• 1 percent cash back on all other purchases, ensuring rewards on every transaction.
• Cashback Match at the end of the first year, doubling all earned rewards.
• No annual fee, making it a cost-effective option.
• Rewards never expire, allowing flexibility in redeeming accumulated cash back.

How to Use the Discover It Cash Back Efficiently

To maximize the rewards and benefits of this card, users should implement strategic spending habits:

• Activate the 5 percent categories each quarter to ensure access to the highest cash back rates.
• Track category spending to stay within the $1,500 limit per quarter for maximum rewards.
• Utilize the Cashback Match feature by earning as much cash back as possible in the first year.
• Use the 0 percent APR period for large purchases or balance transfers to avoid interest charges.
• Avoid carrying a balance beyond the intro period to prevent high APR costs.

By following these practices, cardholders can take full advantage of the Discover It Cash Back card’s earning potential and financial flexibility.

Cons of Discover It Credit Card 

One point that can generate dissatisfaction is the rotating category system. The need to activate quarterly categories requires the user to always be aware of changes, which can be inconvenient. 

Furthermore, if the selected categories are not relevant to a person’s consumption style, the benefit of 5% cashback may become less attractive.

Another factor to consider is that while cashback outside of promotional categories is a benefit, the 1% rate may be lower than other cards that offer more competitive fixed cashback. 

APR and Fees

This card includes an introductory APR offer, making it an appealing choice for those looking to manage payments efficiently. However, users should be aware of ongoing fees once the promotional period ends.

• 0 percent APR for the first 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
• Variable APR of 18.49 percent to 27.49 percent after the introductory period, based on creditworthiness.
• Cash advance APR of 29.49 percent, with a fee of either $10 or 5 percent of the transaction amount.
• Balance transfer fee of 3 percent for transfers completed by March 2025, increasing to 5 percent after that date.
• No annual fee, making the card a budget-friendly choice for everyday spending.

By taking advantage of the 0 percent APR period, users can make large purchases or transfer balances without accumulating interest for over a year. However, carrying a balance beyond the intro period can lead to high interest charges.

How to apply for the Discover It Credit Card

Applying for the Discover It Cash Back card is quick and straightforward. The process can be completed online in just a few minutes.

• Visit the Discover website and navigate to the application page.
• Fill out the application with personal details, including name, address, income, and Social Security number.
• If unsure about qualification, use the pre-approval tool to check eligibility without affecting your credit score.
• Submit the application and wait for an approval decision, which is often provided instantly.

Once approved, cardholders can start using the digital version of the card immediately while waiting for the physical card to arrive. Additionally, Discover allows users to personalize their card by selecting from a variety of design options.

Is the Discover It Cash Back Worth It?

The Discover It Cash Back card is a great option for users who want to earn rewards on their everyday spending without paying an annual fee.

The rotating 5 percent cash back categories provide significant savings, and the Cashback Match feature makes the first year especially rewarding.

While the need to activate bonus categories each quarter may be a drawback for some users, those who stay engaged with the program can maximize their rewards effectively.

Overall, this card is a strong choice for individuals looking to optimize their cash back earnings while enjoying a simple and user-friendly rewards program.