The Discover it® Chrome Gas & Restaurant Credit Card is a cash back credit card designed to reward everyday spending, particularly at gas stations and restaurants. Cardholders earn 2% Cashback Bonus® on combined purchases at these establishments, up to $1,000 per quarter. Beyond this limit, and for all other purchases, the card offers a standard 1% cash back.
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Additionally, this card comes with no annual fee and boasts a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months. Post-introductory rates vary between 18.49% and 27.49% APR. Nationwide, the Discover it® Chrome card is accepted by 99% of merchants that take credit cards, making it a reliable choice for consumers on the go.
Qualification requirements
Getting approved for the Discover it® Chrome is relatively straightforward, but certain qualifications must be met:
- Credit Score: A fair to excellent credit score (typically 670 or higher) significantly increases approval chances.
- Income: Applicants need a verifiable income source to ensure they can meet payment obligations.
- U.S. Residency: You must be a U.S. resident with a valid Social Security Number.
- Credit History: While not strictly required, a positive credit history enhances approval odds, particularly for applicants with limited credit experience.
The pre-approval process offered by Discover is a risk-free way to gauge eligibility without affecting your credit score.
Benefits
The Discover it® Chrome Gas & Restaurant Credit Card offers a host of benefits that cater to frequent diners and drivers. First, its robust cash back rewards system ensures that everyday purchases yield tangible financial returns. The “Cashback Match” feature is a standout, automatically doubling all earned cash back during the first 12 months. This is a game-changer for users looking to maximize their rewards early on.
Another benefit is its lack of an annual fee, which makes the card accessible to a broad audience. Additionally, the card includes advanced security features like free alerts for Social Security Number monitoring and account freezes via the mobile app. Cardholders also enjoy flexibility in redeeming rewards: use them as statement credits, gift cards, or even at checkout with partners like Amazon and PayPal.
Lastly, the 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers provides financial breathing room, making this card an excellent choice for those planning larger purchases or consolidating debt.
Pros
The Discover it® Chrome Gas & Restaurant Credit Card combines generous cash back rewards with user-friendly features, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers. Its unique “Cashback Match” and no annual fee set it apart from competitors.
List of Pros
- 2% Cash Back: Earn on combined gas station and restaurant purchases, up to $1,000 per quarter.
- 1% Unlimited Cash Back: On all other purchases with no cap.
- Cashback Match: First-year rewards are doubled.
- No Annual Fee: Keep more of your earnings.
- Wide Acceptance: Accepted by 99% of U.S. merchants.
- Flexible Rewards Redemption: Use rewards for statement credits, gift cards, or online shopping.
- 0% Intro APR: For 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
- Enhanced Security Features: Free Social Security Number monitoring and account freeze options.
Cons
While the Discover it® Chrome has notable perks, it’s not without limitations. The quarterly spending cap and the limited 2% reward categories might not suit heavy spenders.
List of Cons
- Quarterly Cap: 2% cash back is limited to $1,000 in combined purchases per quarter.
- Limited Bonus Categories: Rewards are primarily for gas and restaurants, offering less value for diverse spenders.
- Foreign Transaction Limitations: Not ideal for international use due to limited acceptance abroad.
- Variable APR: High rates after the introductory period may apply to balance transfers and purchases.
How to Apply
Applying for the Discover it® Chrome Gas & Restaurant Credit Card is a simple process:
- Visit Discover’s Website: Navigate to the Discover it® Chrome application page.
- Pre-Approval Check: Use the pre-approval tool to check eligibility without affecting your credit score.
- Complete the Application: Provide personal, financial, and employment details.
- Submit and Await Decision: Most applications receive an instant decision, though some may require additional verification.
Remember to review the card’s terms and conditions before applying to ensure it aligns with your financial goals.
Is the card worth it after all?
The Discover it® Chrome is a fantastic option for specific lifestyles. If you frequently dine out or drive, the 2% cash back on gas and restaurant purchases is valuable. For new cardholders, the “Cashback Match” adds a compelling incentive. Furthermore, its no annual fee structure ensures that even occasional users can derive value from the card.
However, if your spending habits fall outside the designated bonus categories or exceed the quarterly cap, other cards with broader or uncapped rewards may be more suitable. Additionally, for international travelers, Discover’s limited global acceptance could be a drawback.
Conclusion
The Discover it® Chrome Gas & Restaurant Credit Card is an excellent choice for individuals who spend significantly on dining and driving expenses. It offers a straightforward rewards structure with 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants (on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter) and 1% on all other purchases.
The card also features no annual fee, making it a budget-friendly option. Its lucrative first-year Cashback Match program doubles all the cashback earned during the first year, enhancing its appeal. While it has limitations, such as a cap on bonus rewards, these are easily outweighed by its overall benefits for those with the right spending habits.
