Learn How to Apply for the Discover It Cash Back Credit Card

Discover It Cash Back is a powerful credit solution designed to support everyday financial needs while offering 5% rewards. Want to know how to get started?

What Should You Know Before Applying for the Discover It Cash Back Credit Card?

The Discover It Cash Back card delivers up to 5% unlimited cash back on purchases made in specific categories, selected quarterly by Discover.

These cash back benefits operate through the Discover Cashback Calendar, which updates every three months. The calendar sets designated purchase areas that qualify for 5% rewards, aiming to align with the most frequently used expense types.

Common 5% categories include grocery stores, gas stations, pharmacies, streaming platforms, and travel services. This allows users to benefit from increased rewards on purchases they make most often. All other transactions outside these categories earn unlimited 1% cash back automatically.

Cardholders can access a wide range of redemption options, including bank account transfers, statement credits, or using cash back directly on websites like Amazon.com and PayPal.

Another significant feature is the Cashback Match. At the end of the first year, Discover automatically matches all the cash back you’ve earned. So, if your total cash back earnings reach $300, Discover will give you an extra $300—doubling your reward total.

No sign-up is required for this match. Simply use the card regularly, and Discover will apply the matching benefit without additional steps.

If these advantages fit your spending profile, continue below to see if you’re eligible.

Who can Apply?

See how to receive up to 5% cash back. Photo by Freepik.

Discover sets particular standards for applicants. You must be a legal U.S. resident, maintain a valid Social Security number, and hold an active bank account.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old to qualify. In some jurisdictions, the minimum age may be 19.

Another key aspect is income. Applicants must report their annual income, which helps Discover assess the credit limit that will be offered upon approval.

In general, Discover It Cash Back is best suited for individuals with solid credit histories. This usually means a credit score falling between 670 and 850, which is considered “good” to “excellent” on most scoring models.

If your credit rating falls below this level, it may be more difficult to gain approval. In such cases, focusing on credit-building cards first might be a better step before applying for this card.

How do I Apply for the Discover It Cash Back Credit Card?

To start your application, visit the official Discover website and locate the “Apply Now” button.

Once you click on the button, you’ll be guided to input key information, including your ZIP code, the last few digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth.

In the next stages, you’ll provide full personal and financial information. This includes your full name, home address, email, contact number, and monthly or annual income.

You may also be required to submit additional documentation to verify your income and identity. These documents can include recent pay stubs, utility bills, or bank statements.

After all sections of the application are complete, Discover performs a thorough credit check to assess eligibility. This review includes a complete analysis of your credit score and creditworthiness.

More Details

The introductory APR offer includes 0% interest for 15 months on purchases. For balance transfers, the initial APR is 3%. Once the promotional period ends, regular variable APR ranges from 17.24% to 28.24%, depending on your credit profile. Balance transfers will also carry a 5% fee after the intro period.

One fun feature of Discover is its selection of 25 different card designs. Applicants can choose a design that reflects their personal style during the application process.

The application process itself is fast and streamlined, and you’ll typically receive a response shortly after submitting your information.

The Discover It Cash Back card offers a host of security features as well. Through the Discover mobile app, users can activate online privacy protection tools that shield their personal data from unauthorized access.

If your card is misplaced or stolen, the “Freeze It” function allows you to immediately block new transactions. You can control this feature easily through the app or Discover’s website.

In addition, Discover provides zero fraud liability protection. This means cardholders will not be responsible for unauthorized charges made to their accounts.

Want to learn another option?

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card could be just what you need. Earn unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, plus enjoy a $200 bonus after qualifying purchases.

Explore the benefits and learn how to apply today!

About the author

Everaldo Santiago