Discover credit cards are known for offering simple, rewarding options with no annual fees.
Whether you’re a student, a cashback enthusiast, or someone building credit, there’s a card designed to fit your needs.
This review covers the key features, card options, and benefits you should know before applying.
Key Features of Discover Credit Cards
Discover credit cards offer a range of user-friendly features that make them ideal for everyday use, credit building, and reward earning.
Here are the main benefits you can expect across most Discover cards:
- No Annual Fees: All Discover credit cards have no yearly maintenance fees.
- Cashback Match: New cardholders get all the cashback earned in the first year matched automatically.
- U.S.-Based Customer Service: Support is available 24/7 with representatives located in the United States.
- Freeze it® Feature: Instantly freeze your card through the mobile app to prevent unauthorized use.
- Free FICO® Credit Score Access: Monitor your credit score with monthly updates included.
- Secure Mobile App: Manage your account, track spending, and easily redeem rewards.
- Wide Range of Card Options: Depending on your needs, you can choose from cashback, student, secured, or business cards.
- Redemption Flexibility: Redeem cashback for statement credit, direct deposit, or partner checkouts like Amazon and PayPal.
Discover Cashback Credit Cards
Discover offers cashback credit cards that are easy to use and packed with value.
These cards help you earn rewards on everyday purchases, with no annual fees and added perks like Cashback Match. Here’s a look at the main options:
Discover it® Cash Back
- Earn 5% cashback on rotating quarterly categories (e.g., groceries, gas, restaurants) up to the quarterly maximum after activation.
- Earn 1% cashback on all other purchases automatically.
- All cashback earned in the first year is matched, dollar for dollar.
Discover it® Chrome
- Earn 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants (on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter).
- Earn 1% cashback on all other purchases.
- This includes a first-year cashback match and no annual fee.
Discover Student Credit Cards
Discover student credit cards are designed to help young adults build credit while earning cashback on everyday purchases.
These cards require no credit history and include tools to track credit progress. Here are the main student card options:
Discover it® Student Cash Back
- After activation, earn 5% cashback on rotating quarterly categories up to the quarterly maximum.
- Earn 1% cashback on all other purchases automatically.
- Get a $20 statement credit each school year if your GPA is 3.0 or higher (for up to 5 years).
- A first-year cashback match with no annual fee is included.
Discover it® Student Chrome
- Earn 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter).
- Earn 1% cashback on all other purchases.
- This includes the $20 Good Grade Reward and first-year Cashback Match.
- Simple rewards for students who prefer easy-to-track categories.
Discover Secured Credit Card
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is built for individuals who want to establish or rebuild their credit.
It works like a regular credit card but requires a refundable security deposit. Here are the key features:
Credit Building Tool
- Reports to all three major credit bureaus to help you build credit with responsible use.
- Access your FICO® score monthly for free to monitor progress.
Refundable Security Deposit
- The minimum deposit starts at $200, which determines your credit limit.
- Deposits may be refunded after consistent on-time payments and account review.
Cashback Rewards
- Earn 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 in combined purchases per quarter).
- Earn 1% cashback on all other purchases.
No Annual Fee
- Enjoy all card benefits without paying a yearly maintenance fee.
Cashback Match in First Year
- Discover matches all cashback earned in your first year, dollar for dollar.
Rates and Fees Overview
Discover credit cards are known for transparency and cost efficiency.
They come with competitive interest rates and minimal fees, making them ideal for budget-conscious users.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical rates and charges:
- Introductory APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and/or balance transfers for 6 to 15 months (varies by card).
- Ongoing APR: Variable APR ranges from 17.24% to 28.24%, depending on creditworthiness.
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% introductory fee, up to 5% on future transfers (terms vary by offer).
- Late Payment Fee: Up to $41, but Discover waives your first late payment fee.
- No Annual Fees: All Discover cards have no annual maintenance charges.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Use your card abroad without extra charges on foreign purchases.
Redemption and Reward Options
Discover credit cards give you flexible ways to redeem the cashback you earn. Here are the main redemption options:
- Statement Credit: Apply your cashback directly to your credit card balance.
- Direct Deposit: Transfer your rewards to any linked checking or savings account.
- Amazon.com Purchases: Use cashback instantly at checkout when shopping on Amazon.
- PayPal Checkout: Apply cashback to purchases made through PayPal with your Discover card linked.
- Gift Cards: Redeem for various gift cards, often with added value (e.g., $45 in rewards gets you a $50 gift card).
- No Minimum Redemption: You can redeem rewards at any amount; no minimum threshold is required.
Application Process
Applying for a Discover credit card is fast and user-friendly.
You can check if you prequalify without impacting your credit score and complete the entire process online. Here’s how it works:
Prequalify Online
- Visit the Discover website and fill out the prequalification form.
- This soft inquiry does not affect your credit score.
Choose Your Card
- Review the card options you prequalify for and select the one that fits your needs.
Submit Full Application
- Provide personal details, including income, employment status, and housing information.
- Consent to a full credit check as part of the approval process.
Get a Decision
- Most applicants receive an instant decision online.
- If approved, your card typically arrives within 5–7 business days.
Activate and Use Your Card
- Once you receive it, activate your card online or by phone and start using it.
Contact Information
If you need assistance with your Discover credit card, here are the main contact details:
- Customer Service (U.S.): 1-800-DISCOVER (1-800-347-2683) – Available 24/7 for general inquiries and account help.
- Outside the U.S.: +1-224-888-7777 – For international customer support.
- Hearing/Speech Impaired: Dial 711 (Relay Service) to connect with Discover support.
- Mailing Address for General Correspondence: Discover Financial Services, P.O. Box 30943, Salt Lake City, UT 84130-0943
The Bottomline
Discover credit cards offer valuable features like cash back rewards, no annual fees, and tools to help build or improve your credit.
With options for students, everyday spenders, and those rebuilding credit, there’s a card to match your financial goals.
Compare the available cards and apply online today to earn rewards and build credit smartly.
Disclaimer
Information in this article is for general guidance only and may not reflect the most recent terms or offers from Discover.
Always check the official Discover website for the latest details before applying.
