With the Discover it Cash Back credit card you typically receive 1% cash back on every single purchase, however, throughout the year there are rotating categories that allow you to earn a whopping 5% cash back! These categories change on a quarterly basis and knowing which categories are offering an increased cash back is important to put more cash right back into your pocket! Although we are still in 2018, the 2019 calendar has been released which can help you plan your spending accordingly.
Remember, you are maxed at earning the 5% cash back per quarter on purchases up to $1,500 — which means you can earn up to $75 cash back per quarter. And, if you are a new cardmember, all cash back earned will be doubled which means you can earn up to $150 cash back per quarter!
Q1, January – March 2019: Grocery Stores
During January, February, and March, you can receive 5% cash back on all your grocery store purchases. Just make sure that your particular grocery store codes properly as many times mom and pop grocery stores might not earn you the increased cash back. Also keep in mind that purchases made at Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs such as Costco will not qualify, even if your actual purchase was “groceries.”
If you are not going to spend $1,500 over the three months, there are still many ways to maximize your cash back. Many grocery stores sell gift cards to other merchants, i.e., Cheesecake Factory, CVS, Target, Pottery Barn, etc. Or, you can always purchase a gift card for that grocery chain to use at a future date.
Q2, April – June: Gas Stations, Uber, Lyft
During April, May, and June, you can receive 5% cash back on all your gas station purchases as well as Uber and Lyft rides. Just remember, the 5% cash back is up to $1,500 spent combined, not per individual category!
Q3, July – September: Restaurants
During the months of July, August, and September, you can receive 5% cash back on all your restaurant purchases. Again, just make sure your particular restaurant actually codes as “Restaurants” on your monthly statement. If you are not going to spend $1,500 dining out in a three month time frame (I know I don’t!), purchase a gift card at the restaurant itself to then use at a future time.
Q4, October – December: Amazon
During the months of October, November, and December, you can receive 5% cash back on all your Amazon.com purchases. This is perfect timing for Black Friday / Cyber Monday deals and all of your holiday shopping! Amazon also sells many other merchant gift cards which is a great way to maximize your cash back!
Overall…
These are some great categories and there are many ways to maximize your cash back during every single quarter. Just make sure to always activate the cash back categories every single quarter.
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