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Updated Aug 12, 2026 · research
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Discover it Cash Back Credit Card

Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter up to the quarterly maximum when you activate, plus 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Entry LevelPersonal
Discover
$0
Annual fee
5% back rotating categories
Top rate
N/A
Foreign fee
N/A
Rating
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Earning Rates

rotating categories
5%cash back

At different places you shop each quarter, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.

all other purchases
1%cash back

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • Unlimited first-year Cashback Match
  • 5% cash back in rotating categories up to $1,500 quarterly
  • 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
  • No foreign transaction fees

Cons

  • Rotating categories require quarterly activation
  • Good credit required for approval
  • No sign-up bonus offer
  • Discover network has limited international acceptance

Key Takeaways

  • 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories up to $1,500 after activation
  • Discover matches all first-year cash back earned, no limits
  • No annual fee or foreign transaction fees
  • 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
  • Free FICO® Score and account freeze feature

Fees

Fee TypeAmount
Annual Fee$0

APR Information

Purchase APR
17.49% - 26.49%0% intro APR for 15 months
Balance Transfer APR
17.49% - 26.49%0% intro APR for 15 months

APRs shown are variable and may change based on the Prime Rate. Your actual APR will be determined based on your creditworthiness.

Card Benefits

1 benefits (1 strong or better)

Other Insurance

Coverage Tier Legend

Best in ClassIndustry-leading coverage
StrongAbove average
StandardTypical coverage
LimitedBelow average

Hidden Gems

Freeze it® On/Off Switch

Instantly freeze the account via app or website to prevent new purchases, cash advances, or balance transfers if the card is lost.

Free FICO® Score 8 Access

View FICO® Score 8 for free on monthly statements and in the Discover app, based on TransUnion data.

$0 Fraud Liability

Cardholders face no responsibility for unauthorized purchases when reported promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the annual fee for the Discover it® Cash Back card?
There is no annual fee. This applies every year with no introductory waiver.
How do the cash back rewards work on this card?
Earn 5% cash back on purchases in rotating quarterly categories up to $1,500 per quarter after activation. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases with no limit.
What is the Cashback Match benefit?
Discover matches all cash back earned during the first year at the end of the first 12 billing periods. The match is dollar-for-dollar with no minimum spending requirement or maximum limit. It applies only once after the first year.
Are there foreign transaction fees?
No, there are no foreign transaction fees on purchases made outside the United States.
What credit score is required to apply?
Good credit is required for approval.
What additional benefits does the card offer?
Access a free FICO® Score 8 on monthly statements and in the app. Use Freeze it® to instantly lock the account online or via app. Enjoy $0 liability for unauthorized purchases.
Do I need to activate the 5% categories?
Yes, activation is required each quarter to earn 5% cash back in the specified rotating categories.

About This Card

This card suits consumers with good credit who make everyday purchases in varying categories like groceries, dining, or gas and seek a no-fee option with a first-year rewards boost. It fits those transferring balances or financing purchases interest-free for 15 months.

The Discover it Cash Back Credit Card features 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories upon activation and 1% cash back on other purchases, with no annual fee. It also offers an unlimited dollar-for-dollar Cashback Match at the end of the first year.

It differentiates with an automatic, uncapped Cashback Match that doubles all first-year rewards regardless of spending level.

Ready to Decide?

Apply for the Discover it Cash Back Credit Card

Current offer available with no annual fee.

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Rewards program

Discover Cashback Bonus

Earns Cash Back

Card Categories

Cash backNo Annual FeeRotating categoriesEveryday spendingIntro APR

Sources & Methodology

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