The Discover it Cash Back Credit Card is a popular choice for people who want rewards without paying an annual fee.
It offers 5% cash back in rotating categories, unlimited 1% on other purchases, and a first-year Cashback Match.
In this guide, you’ll learn the steps to apply, eligibility requirements, and what to expect after submitting your application.
Card Highlights and Benefits
The Discover it Cash Back Credit Card offers features that make it appealing to everyday users.
You can enjoy rewards on daily purchases, no annual fee, and added perks that help you manage your credit.
- 5% Cash Back: Earn on rotating categories each quarter after activation (up to the quarterly maximum).
- 1% Unlimited Cash Back: Apply to all other purchases without limit.
- Cashback Match: All cash back earned in the first year is matched automatically.
- No Annual Fee: Keep more of your rewards without extra costs.
- FICO Credit Score Access: Free monthly score updates through your online account.
- Flexible Redemption: Redeem cash back for statement credits, direct deposits, gift cards, or purchases at select retailers.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for the Discover it Cash Back Credit Card, you need to meet specific requirements.
These help ensure you qualify for approval and can manage the card responsibly.
- Credit Score: A good to excellent score is typically expected (around 670 or higher).
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old (21 in some states if income is limited).
- Residency: You need to be a U.S. resident with a valid Social Security Number.
- Income: Proof of steady income is required to demonstrate your ability to handle payments.
- Identification: A valid government-issued ID is needed for verification.
- Credit History: A clean record with limited recent delinquencies improves your chances.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for the Discover it Cash Back Credit Card is simple and can be done online, by phone, or through the mobile app.
You’ll need to provide personal and financial details to complete the process.
- Visit Discover’s Website or App: Start your application at the official Discover site or app.
- Enter Personal Information: Provide your name, address, Social Security Number, and contact details.
- Provide Financial Details: List your income, employment status, and monthly housing costs.
- Review Terms and Conditions: Check the rates, fees, and key details before submitting.
- Submit Application: Send your application for review.
- Wait for a Decision: Many applicants get instant approval, while others may need further verification.
Application Options: Online vs. Phone
Discover gives you more than one way to apply for the Cash Back Credit Card.
You can choose between applying online or by phone, depending on what works best for you.
Online Application:
- Visit the Discover website or mobile app.
- Complete the secure application form with personal and financial details.
- Get an approval decision, often within minutes.
Phone Application:
- Call Discover’s customer service line to apply with an agent.
- Provide the exact personal and financial details over the phone.
- This option is useful if you want real-time help or have questions during the process.
What Happens After You Apply
Once you finish the application, the following steps depend on your approval status. You may receive an instant response or be asked for more details.
- Instant Approval: Many applicants get a decision within minutes and receive their card by mail in about 7–10 business days.
- Pending Review: Some applications need extra verification, such as proof of income or identity.
- Denial: If denied, you’ll get an explanation by mail with the main reasons.
- Card Delivery: After approval, the card is shipped to your address, and you’ll be able to activate it once received.
- Account Setup: You can create an online account or use the mobile app to manage payments, rewards, and alerts.
Rates, Fees, and Terms
Understanding the rates and fees is essential before committing to any credit card. These terms help you manage costs and avoid surprises.
- Introductory APR: 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months.
- Regular APR: Variable APR ranging from about 17.24% to 28.24%, based on creditworthiness.
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% during the introductory period, then up to 5% on future transfers.
- Cash Advance APR: Higher than purchase APR, with immediate interest charges.
- Penalty APR: None; late payments do not increase your APR.
- Annual Fee: $0, so you keep your rewards without extra cost.
Rewards Redemption Options
Once you earn cash back, you have several ways to redeem it. These options give you flexibility to use rewards in a way that best fits your needs.
- Statement Credit: Apply your rewards directly to reduce your card balance.
- Direct Deposit: Transfer cash back into a linked bank account.
- Gift Cards: Redeem for gift cards from major retailers, sometimes at added value.
- Pay With Rewards: Use your cash back to pay at select online retailers like Amazon or PayPal.
- Charitable Donations: Donate your rewards to participating nonprofit organizations.
Credit Impact and Tips for Applicants
Applying for a credit card affects your credit score, and how you use it can shape your financial profile.
Following a few simple practices can improve your approval odds and long-term credit health.
- Hard Inquiry: Submitting an application triggers a hard pull, which may lower your score slightly.
- Approval Chances: A strong credit history and stable income increase the likelihood of approval.
- Payment History: Paying on time builds positive credit and avoids late fees.
- Credit Utilization: Keep balances low relative to your credit limit to protect your score.
- Limit Applications: Avoid submitting multiple credit card applications in a short time frame.
- Monitor Credit: Use free FICO score access and keep track of your progress.
Security and Fraud Protection
Protecting your account is a top priority, and strong security features help you stay safe.
You get tools and safeguards that reduce the risk of fraud and give you peace of mind.
- $0 Fraud Liability: You’re not responsible for unauthorized charges.
- Freeze It Feature: Instantly freeze your account if your card is lost or stolen.
- 24/7 Fraud Monitoring: Continuous account monitoring for unusual activity.
- Account Alerts: Get email or text notifications for transactions.
- Secure Login: Multi-factor authentication adds extra protection when signing in.
- US-Based Support: Access to representatives trained to handle fraud concerns quickly.
Discover Customer Support
Reliable customer service is essential when managing your credit account. Discover offers several verified ways to reach support, available 24/7.
- Phone Support: Call 1-800-347-2683 anytime to speak with a U.S.-based representative.
- Mailing Address: Discover Financial Services, P.O. Box 30943, Salt Lake City, UT 84130-0943.
- Secure Messaging: Log in to your online account to send messages through the secure portal.
- Mobile App Support: Use the Discover mobile app to access chat and account help.
- Website Help Center: Visit the official Discover website for FAQs and self-service tools.
To Sum Up
The Discover it Cash Back Credit Card combines strong rewards with no annual fee, making it a practical choice for everyday spending.
By meeting the requirements and following the simple application process, you can start earning cash back right away.
Apply today to take advantage of the benefits and begin building long-term value with your purchases.
Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
Terms, rates, and offers may change, so confirm the latest details directly with Discover before applying.