Earning cash back at stores

Quick insights

• You can earn cash back from shopping with your cash back credit card at most stores.
• The amount of cash back available can vary between stores, with some offering more than others. 
• Using a cash back credit card can further enhance the benefits of shopping.

Cash back at stores is like a secret perk that many shoppers overlook. But with the right knowledge, you can make your shopping trip even more rewarding. Let's explore the world of earning cash back at stores.

Which places do cash back?

When it comes to earning cash back, not all retailers are created equal. Some offer generous cash back programs that can significantly enhance your savings. Here's a look at some of the types of stores where you can earn cash back:

• Supermarkets: Many supermarkets have partnered with credit card companies to offer cash back on your grocery purchases. 
• Convenience stores: While these stores might not offer the highest cash back rates, they often have partnerships with credit card companies.
• Gas stations: Filling up your tank can also fill up your wallet; many credit cards offer cash back on gas purchases.
• Department stores: Department stores are often featured in enhanced cash back deals. 

The Chase Freedom Flex^® card has been known to include stores in all of these categories in its 5% cash back categories.

Which stores offer cash back on purchases?

Many stores and retailers offer cash back, either through their own loyalty programs or through partnerships with credit card companies. Here are a few examples:

• Supermarkets: Credit cards may offer cash back deals with supermarkets or grocery stores. For instance, the Chase Freedom Flex may include grocery stores in its rotating 5% cash back categories.
• Online retailers: Many online retailers offer cash back through specific credit cards or cash back apps.
• Food delivery: The Chase Freedom Flex card has been known to include food delivery services in its 5% cash back categories, allowing you to earn rewards on your grocery or meal deliveries.
• Toy and novelty stores: Toy stores may also be featured in rotating cash back categories, and select retailers offer co-branded cards. 
• Gas stations: Many major gas stations offer cash back when you use certain credit cards. They can also be featured in rotating cash back categories with the Chase Freedom Flex card.

Does Chase Freedom Flex give cash back for groceries?

Yes, the Chase Freedom Flex card often includes grocery stores in its rotating 5% cash back categories. However, the categories change each quarter, so it's important to check the current categories and activate the bonus.

Potential 5% categories for Chase Freedom

The 5% categories for the Chase Freedom Flex card change each quarter and are announced shortly before the start of the quarter. Here are some examples of potential cash back categories:

• Quarter 1: Enhanced 5% earn rate at gas stations, electronic vehicle (EV) chargers and streaming services.
• Quarter 2: 5% cash back at grocery and department stores. 
• Quarter 3: 5% cash back at home improvement stores and fitness centers.
• Quarter 4: 5% cash back on travel and dining purchases. 

The bottom line

Cash back can make your shopping trips more rewarding, whether you're buying groceries, filling up your gas tank or shopping online. By understanding which stores offer cash back and how to maximize it, you can make your spending go further. Remember to pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges as you continue to earn cash back on your everyday purchases.