Discover’s 5% cash back categories for October to December 2025

Written by: Brad Hanson
• Updated •2 min read
This date may not reflect recent changes in individual terms.
People shopping in grocery store, which could be one of the Discover 5% cash back categories.Image: People shopping in grocery store, which could be one of the Discover 5% cash back categories.
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For the fourth quarter of 2025, the Discover it® Cash Back and Discover it® Student Cash Back offer 5% cash back on up to $1,500 (then 1%) in combined purchases at Amazon.com and drug stores. You’ll earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.

You’ll need to activate the bonus categories between Oct. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2025, before you can start earning your 5% cash back.

Read on for a closer look at these categories, including how Discover defines them, and a guide on activating and redeeming your rewards.

Discover it® Cash Back calendar

Q1: January–MarchRestaurants

Home improvement stores

Select streaming services
Q2: April–JuneGrocery stores

Wholesale clubs
Q3: July–SeptemberGas stations and EV charging

Public transit

Utilities
Q4: October–DecemberAmazon.com

Drugstores

A closer look at this quarter’s bonus categories

Amazon.com

Amazon.com purchases include transactions that use the Amazon.com checkout system. That includes standard orders on Amazon, but also digital downloads, Amazon Fresh orders and Amazon Prime subscriptions. In-person purchases at Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh stores are also included.

Unfortunately, Whole Foods purchases (online and in store) are not included in this category.

Drugstores

Purchases at drugstores are classified as those made at standalone drugstores and pharmacies, including online pharmacies. But pharmacies inside bigger retail stores, like Target, may not qualify.

How to activate your Discover it® Cash Back bonus categories

To earn 5% cash back in the second quarter, you’ll need to activate the bonus categories between Oct. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2025. 

Keep in mind that you’ll only get 5% back from the date you opt in, so it’s best to do so as early as possible.  

You can activate the bonus categories through the Discover app, the online portal or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card. 

How to redeem your Discover it® Cash Back rewards

Discover offers several ways to redeem your cash back. You can log into your account or call the customer service number on the back of your card to choose your preferred method.

If you’re looking for simple cash back, you can opt for direct deposit into a bank account or apply it as a statement credit to your bill.

Discover also lets you redeem your rewards for gift cards, select charitable donations, or directly on purchases with retailers like Amazon.com.

About the author: Brad Hanson is a senior editor at Credit Karma. His 30 years of experience in print and digital media includes work for the Los Angeles Times-Washington Post News Service, Trucks.com and Polyvore. Most recently before… Read more.