For the first quarter of 2026, 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 with grocery stores, wholesale clubs and select streaming services. You’ll earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
You’ll need to activate the bonus categories between Jan. 1, 2026, and March 31, 2026, 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.
2025 Discover it® Cash Back calendar
| Q1: January–March | Restaurants Home improvement stores Select streaming services |
| Q2: April–June | Grocery stores Wholesale clubs |
| Q3: July–September | Gas stations and EV charging Public transit Utilities |
| Q4: October–December | Amazon.com Drugstores |
A closer look at this quarter’s bonus categories
Grocery stores
Discover classifies grocery stores pretty broadly, with meat lockers, bakeries and delivery services all qualifying. However, superstores like Walmart and Target don’t qualify, and convenience stores might not either.
Wholesale clubs
The combination of grocery stores and wholesale clubs means you’ll get the bonus cash back rate at even more places where you buy food, but there’s a catch.
Costco doesn’t accept Discover credit cards for payment, so one of the most popular wholesale clubs isn’t available.
Select streaming services
Qualifying streaming services include Netflix, Spotify, and Apple TV, plus many others you can check on Discover’s website. They also say services not listed “may be included,” which provides at least some hope that your preferred option will 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 Jan. 1, 2026, and Mar. 31, 2026.
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.