Discover it® Cash Back • quick review • terms apply

Discover it® Cash Back — how it works, who it fits, and what to watch for

This card is known for a clear “5% + 1%” rewards model: earn bonus cash back in rotating categories (activation required, capped each quarter), plus a base rate on other purchases. Discover also promotes a first-year “Cashback Match” concept for new cardmembers. Always confirm the current offer and terms on Discover’s official website.

No annual fee (typical) 5% rotating categories (activate) 1% on other purchases Cashback Match (first year)

Apply on Discover.com → Pre-approval tool →

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Quick facts

Here’s what most people want to know before applying.

Rewards model

Rotating bonus + base rate

You activate categories each quarter to earn the top rate up to the quarterly cap; other purchases earn a base rate.

Activation

Yes (important)

Without activation, you may miss the bonus rate—set a reminder each quarter if you want to maximize rewards.

First-year concept

Cashback Match

Discover markets a first-year match of rewards for new cardmembers (per Discover terms).

Biggest “watch out”

Interest can outweigh rewards

If you carry a balance, interest charges can erase the value of cash back. Paying on time matters more than rewards.

Pros & what to keep in mind (shown upfront)

No hidden accordions here — everything important is visible.

✓ Why it can be strong

Good upside if you consistently use the rotating bonus categories.
No annual fee is often a strong long-term benefit (confirm current terms).
Cashback Match can make first-year rewards more valuable (per Discover terms).
Works well for planned spending when you know the quarterly categories.

ℹ Things to watch

Activation required (easy to forget).
Bonus rate is capped each quarter (check current cap on official page).
Carrying balances can defeat the purpose (interest & fees).
Approval is not guaranteed; depends on your credit profile.

How to apply safely

To avoid surprises: verify terms, consider pre-approval, and apply only on official pages.

Confirm current terms

Offers and category calendars can change. Check the official page for the latest details.

Option: pre-approval

Use the pre-approval tool for a lower-friction first step (confirm how it works on Discover’s site).

Apply (if it fits)

Apply on Discover’s official site and review the APR/fees before submitting.

Apply on Discover.com → Pre-approval tool →

Disclaimer: This page is informational and not affiliated with Discover. Terms, categories, caps, APRs and fees can change. Always verify the latest offer details on Discover’s official website before applying.