Via WSJ, Apple plans to cut ties from Goldman Sachs as the banking institution behind their popular Apple Card credit card and Apple high yield savings account. The company sent a proposal to complete the exit within the next 12-15 months. Apple will be working to find a new bank backer for these products.
There had been talks of Apple partnering with Amex, but apparently they need to remain on the Mastercard network for the coming few years. Another rumor is the possibility of a Synchrony partnership.
Update 9/29/23: New link for the $100 bonus with any purchase. (Not sure if the Nike stack is available any longer.)
Update 9/28/22: A reader reports that this $100 signup bonus stacks with the $75 Nike bonus. Just sign up with the $100 link, make a purchase, spend $75 at Nike (you can buy $75 Nike gift card if you’d like), and you should get both the $100 bonus and the $75 bonus. You can even just do the $75 spend at Nike and that would count for both bonuses. Two SD posters (1, 2) also had success with this stack.
The Offer
Direct Link to offer | New link (this link should show for anyone, try incognito, see Verdict below)
Signup for Apple Card by September 30, 2022 and get $100 in Daily Cash when you make any purchase within 7 days.
Referrer does not get any bonus.
Our Verdict
This ‘referral’ offer was sent out to some (all?) Apple cardholders via email. iMore gave us the landing page we linked above based on the email offer. That link seems to be a universal link for everyone referring a friend, and so it should work for anyone who signs up at the link showing the $100 bonus, even without getting the link directly from a friend.
Decent bonus given the lack of any spend requirement. I imagine some people will find it worthwhile, especially someone who wants the Apple Card. Remember again that this offer ends soon on September 30th. We’ll add this to our List of Best Credit Card Bonuses. Our review on Apple Card can be found here.
Dining version | Travel version | Dining & Travel version (bear in mind these offers are targeted – For anyone that wants to check, when you go to your Apple Card in the Wallet app, hit the top right button with the three dots, and then Daily Cash)
Apple card sent out various spending offers for Dining and some people got for Travel as well:
Through September 20th, get 5% total Daily Cash Back every time you use Apple Card on dining purchases, on up to $6,000 in total spend depending on your Apple Card payment type. See offer terms for full details and exclusions.
Through September 20th, get 5% total Daily Cash back, on up to $20,000 in total travel spend and up to $6,000 in total dining spend depending on your Apple Card payment method. See offer terms for full details and exclusions.
Earn 5% back on up to $2,000 in total qualifying dining purchases at Panera and Uber Eats when using Apple Pay.
Earn 5% back on up to $2,000 in total qualifying dining purchases when using Apple Pay.
or Earn 5% back on up to $12,000 in total qualifying dining purchases when using Apple Pay.
Earn 5% back on up to $2,000 in total qualifying dining purchases with virtual online number or titanium card.
or Earn 5% back on up to $12,000 in total qualifying dining purchases with virtual online number or titanium card.
The Fine Print
Offer is limited to the select Apple Card account holder who directly received this offer. No need to enroll.
Valid from August 21, 2023, to September 20, 2023.
Earn a total of 5% Daily Cash back on up to $6,000 in total qualifying dining purchases made with your Apple Card depending on your payment method.
Qualifying dining purchases include those made with Apple Card at restaurants, cocktail lounges, discotheques, nightclubs, taverns, bars, eligible delivery services, and fast food restaurants.
The total Daily Cash back that can be earned with this offer is $300, depending on your payment method.
Dining purchases at Bonus Daily Cash Merchants with Apple Pay: you will earn 5% back on up to $2,000 in total qualifying dining purchases at Panera and Uber Eats when using Apple Pay. 5% Daily Cash is not available at Panera locations outside the U.S. and excludes orders made on third-party apps, plastic gift card purchases made online, and gift cards purchased through the Bulk Gift Card program. The maximum Daily Cash you can earn in this category is $100. The 5% Daily Cash earn rate includes the 3% standard earn rate for purchases made using Apple Pay plus and an additional 2% bonus earn;
Dining purchases at non-Bonus Daily Cash Merchants with Apple Pay: you will earn 5% back on up to $2,000 in total qualifying dining purchases when using Apple Pay. The maximum Daily Cash you can earn in this category is $100. The 5% Daily Cash earn rate includes the 2% standard earn rate for purchases made using Apple Pay plus an additional 3% bonus earn;
Dining purchases made with virtual online number or titanium card: you will earn 5% back on up to $2,000 in total qualifying dining purchases with virtual online number or titanium card. The maximum Daily Cash you can earn in this category is $100. The 5% Daily Cash earn rate includes the 1% standard earn rate for purchases made using virtual online number or titanium card plus an additional 4% bonus earn.
Qualifying purchases can only be made by the Apple Card account holder who directly received this offer. This means any purchases made by Apple Card Family members will not be included towards the Apple Card account holder’s qualifying spend.
Merchants are assigned a merchant category code (MCC) by the credit card network based on its primary line of business. Web mapping platforms such as Apple Maps and similar services, may label or refer to a merchant as a restaurant or dining related establishment however, for the purposes of this promotion, qualifying dining purchases are determined based on the MCC reported by the merchant. Purchases made with merchants that provide dining related goods or services such as restaurants or bars located within another establishment (e.g., inside a hotel, casino, amusement parks, airport, or event venue), at cafeterias, catering, vending machines, convenience stores, food courts, and food trucks may not qualify for this offer if a merchant does not submit transactions using the anticipated MCC associated with qualifying dining categories.
Our Verdict
These are nice earn rates, just beware of the $2,000/$12,000 limits. The Dining version seems to have been more widely sent out than the Dining + Travel version.
Apple Card is sending out an offer to some people to get a $200 signup bonus after spending $2,000 within 90 days.
Card Details
No annual fee
No foreign transaction fee
No cash advance fees
No late payment fees (late or missed payments will result in additional interest accumulating toward your balance)
No over-the-limit fees, no balance transfer fees, no expedited card delivery fee
Card earns the following rewards:
Read our full review on Apple Card here.
Our Verdict
We’ve seen varying signup bonuses of $50 or $100. We once saw a targeted $150 offer. This targeted $200 offer is highest ever, though it also has a higher $2,000 spend requirement.
I got this offer via email, and some others reported getting it as well. Again, this is a targeted offer, and has no public landing page.
Want to learn how to get free Apple gift cards? Here are 13 ways.
Want to learn how to get free Apple gift cards?
Who wouldn’t want to receive Apple gift cards for free? After all, you can use an Apple gift card for buying a laptop, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, iCloud, and more. In this article, I’ll share several methods to help you earn Apple gift cards all from home.
Many websites allow you to earn free Apple gift cards by completing simple tasks, scanning your grocery receipt, or participating in market research. These platforms don’t only provide Apple gift cards; some also offer other free gift cards like Visa or Amazon.
Now, before you think this isn’t possible. I have personally earned over 100 free gift cards over the years and it’s always nice to use a free gift card to pay for something that I want.
Related content:
How to Earn Free Apple Gift Cards
Today, I will be talking about the different ways you can earn free Apple gift cards. By spending your time on these sites and apps, you can earn rewards and points that can be traded for gift cards.
Here’s a quick list before we begin:
1. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a popular rewards platform where you can earn points (called Swagbucks or SBs) by completing tasks like taking surveys, watching videos, or playing games. The earned points can be redeemed for various gift cards, including Apple Store gift cards (and even Google Play gift cards).
I have been using Swagbucks for years, and I have earned over 105 gift cards for free so far. It is easy to earn points and the site is very easy to use.
How Swagbucks works:
Click here to sign up for free for Swagbucks (and receive a $10 bonus).
Start collecting points by answering surveys, using their search engine, playing games, using coupons, and more.
After you’ve collected enough points, you can redeem them for Apple gift cards. (as well as many other options).
2. Fetch Rewards
Fetch Rewards is an app that allows you to earn points by scanning receipts from grocery stores. The points earned can be redeemed for Apple gift cards and other rewards.
I use Fetch Rewards every single time I go to the grocery store. It takes less than a minute to use and earn points, so it’s a no-brainer. My routine involves visiting the grocery store and shopping as usual. No need to open the Fetch Rewards app beforehand. After shopping, I check out, and upon getting home, I open the app on my phone and take a photo of my receipt. Fetch Rewards swiftly scans and credits my account with points – a quick and easy process!
Here is how Fetch Rewards works:
Purchase items in your usual manner, whether online or in physical stores.
Capture an image of your receipt using your phone when you’ve finished shopping.
Accumulate points through Fetch Rewards.
You can sign up for Fetch Rewards by clicking here.
3. Honey
Honey is a browser extension that automatically applies coupon codes when you shop online.
Honey is a little secret weapon for online shopping. Imagine shopping like you usually do, and right at checkout, Honey swoops in to find and apply the best coupon codes for you.
Later on, you can turn those points into free Apple gift cards. And guess what? It’s super simple – just two clicks! Oh, and the best part? It won’t cost you a dime – it’s totally free!
You can learn more about Honey here.
4. American Consumer Opinion
American Consumer Opinion is a market research company that rewards users for sharing their opinions through online surveys. Once your earnings reach a certain threshold, you can redeem them for gift cards or cash.
Signing up won’t cost you a thing, and you can earn $1 to $5 (the longer surveys pay more!). They’ve given out a whopping $35 million+ to survey takers, with 20 million surveys posted. And guess what? They’ve got a massive community of 7 million+ members!
Click here to sign up for American Consumer Opinion.
5. Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is a dedicated survey platform where you can earn points by taking part in daily surveys. These points can be exchanged for Apple gift card codes or other rewards like PayPal money or prepaid Visa debit cards.
Answering three surveys daily on Survey Junkie will earn you around $40 a month.
Companies pay for opinions and online surveys because they are trying to figure out what they can do to improve their products and company. Sometimes, they even use feedback to create whole new products to fill a need. Paid online surveys are extremely helpful for a company, as you can see.
You can sign up for Survey Junkie by clicking here.
6. Branded Surveys
Branded Surveys is another survey platform where you can earn points by answering questions, which can later be redeemed for free gift cards. The surveys typically take 5-15 minutes to complete, and your feedback helps improve a company and/or their product.
They’re all about online surveys that pay you, ranging from $0.50 to $5.00 per survey. And here’s the kicker: joining up is absolutely free, just like I always suggest.
Now, here’s the cool part – Branded Surveys has showered their members with over $39 million in rewards. Impressive, right? And the cherry on top? They’ve got a treasure trove of 100+ free gift card options, such as free Apple gift cards.
You can sign up for Branded Surveys by clicking here.
7. Prize Rebel
Prize Rebel is a platform that offers a wide array of tasks to complete for rewards points. These tasks include surveys, watching videos, and even signing up for offers. Once you accumulate enough points, you can redeem them for Apple gift cards or other rewards.
What makes Prize Rebel shine? It’s a global party! Whether you’re in the U.S. or beyond, they’ve got room for you. No more location troubles! You can use Prize Rebel from almost any country in the world. However, surveys are not available to every country, but there are still other ways to earn points on this website such as by completing offer walls and referring new members.
And the cherry on top? They’ve shared over $29 million in cash and free gift card rewards since 2007. Time to snag those rewards, my friend!
You can sign up for Prize Rebel by clicking here.
8. User Interviews
Listen up, because User Interviews is a standout in this lineup! It’s not your usual online survey spot – it’s a market research game changer. They pay much higher than the average survey site.
User Interviews is a platform that connects researchers with participants to conduct studies. By participating in these studies (usually in the form of interviews), you can earn cash, which can be used to buy Apple gift cards or other items.
You can earn $50 to $100 per hour or even more by sharing your insights on User Interviews on a variety of topics. Average payout? A sweet $65. These discussions happen over the phone or via video calls, with interviewers asking the questions. And guess what? They kickstart 2,000+ studies monthly, and they’ve rewarded over 87,000 folks in just the past year.
Click here to sign up for User Interviews.
9. Upside
Upside is a cash back rewards platform specifically for gas purchases. By using the app to find and purchase gas, you can earn cash back that can be redeemed for gift cards, such as for free iTunes gift cards.
This nifty phone app puts cash in your pocket whenever you hit up specific gas stations listed in their app. Now, not every single gas station will show up in the app, so you do need to do a little more work to get points (such as by going to a different gas station than normal).
Here’s how it works: Open the app to find nearby gas stations. Now, the fun part: you could score up to $0.25 per gallon cash back on gas! And the rewards don’t stop there. You can turn those earnings into cold hard cash in your bank or score awesome free gift cards.
You can sign up for Upside here.
10. InboxDollars
InboxDollars is another well-known platform that pays users for completing surveys, watching videos, reading emails, and even shopping online. You can cash out your earnings in the form of Apple gift cards or other popular options.
Most of their surveys pay around $0.50 to $5.00 and take 3 to 25 minutes to answer. The longer the survey, generally the more money it pays.
By signing up for InboxDollars via this link, you can get a free $5 sign-up bonus.
11. Ibotta App
Ibotta is a cash back app that gives you money when you shop, such as at a grocery store. By using the app and uploading your receipts after you’re done shopping, you can earn cash back on your purchases, which can be redeemed for Apple gift cards. I use Ibotta all the time and it is a great app!
Here’s how Ibotta works:
Step one: Get the app.
Step two: Browse available offers at the store you are planning to shop at.
Step three: Scan your receipt after you’re done shopping.
Ibotta is similar to Fetch Rewards, but there is a little more work involved. To get points on Ibotta, you will have to go to the app before you go to the grocery store and select the deals that you plan on buying. But, you are usually able to earn more points on Ibotta. The great thing about the two is that you can use the same receipts on both apps – so you can earn as many points as possible.
12. MyPoints
MyPoints is another rewards platform similar to Swagbucks, where you can earn points for shopping, playing games, and taking surveys. The points can be redeemed for Apple gift cards, Walmart gift cards, and more.
MyPoints has been featured in The New York Times, ABC News, Yahoo, and more.
They have given out more than $236 million in gift cards and PayPal cash since 1996.
Sign up for MyPoints here.
13. Referral Programs
By participating in various referral programs, usually by referring friends to a specific site or product, you can earn rewards points or cash that can be exchanged for Apple gift cards.
If you’re a fan of a website, service, or product, it’s worth checking if they have a referral program. You might score some awesome rewards while spreading the love!
How to Redeem Apple Gift Card Codes
So, you’ve redeemed your points and received an Apple gift card code. What’s next?
Apple Gift Cards can be used at the Apple Store, the Apple Store app, Apple.com, the App Store, iTunes, Apple Music, Apple TV, and Apple Books. So, you have a lot of options as you can see!
If it’s a physical gift card that you were given, then you will need to find the 16-digit code on the back of your Apple gift card or iTunes gift card. If your code is via email, you will have to simply just grab the code from the email that you receive. This code is important for redeeming the value of your gift card. Then, you will go to the App Store or the Apple website to redeem your gift card.
Also, quick note: you don’t need to have a current Apple account to use a free gift card. You can use your free gift card in-person at an Apple store (such as one at a mall near you).
But, if you want to redeem your free Apple gift card code via the online App Store, you will simply use your Apple device, such as a Mac, iPad, or iPhone and follow these instructions:
How to redeem a free Apple e-gift card on a Mac:
Open the App Store on your computer.
Click your name or the sign-in button.
Click Redeem Gift Card and follow the instructions.
If you have trouble redeeming the card with the camera, you can also enter your gift card code manually.
How to redeem a free Apple e-gift card on an iPad or iPhone:
Open the App Store on your device.
Click on your profile picture.
Scroll down to Redeem Gift Card or Code and follow the instructions.
After you successfully redeem your gift card, the balance will automatically be added to your Apple ID account. You can now use this credit to purchase Apple products like Macs, iPads, AirPods, and accessories. This area will also show you your Apple account balance so that you know how much you have left.
Frequently Asked Questions About Free Apple Gift Cards
Here are answers to common questions about how to get an Apple gift card for free.
How can I get a free Apple gift card?
You can get a free Apple gift card by signing up on the websites above. These websites will pay you to complete a variety of tasks like answering paid surveys, watching videos and movies, or shopping online through their site. In return, they give you points that can be redeemed for Apple gift cards.
How can I get a $15 iTunes gift card code for free?
To get a $15 iTunes gift card for free, you can participate in tasks or activities on the many different sites above. These websites above give you rewards for shopping online, answering surveys, scanning your grocery receipts, and more. By earning points, you can redeem free Apple card codes for the amount you want, such as $15. Most websites will have a minimum that you can redeem as well.
What are some ways to earn free Apple gift cards online?
Some ways to earn free Apple gift cards online include participating in surveys, watching videos, shopping, or using cashback websites. Sites like Swagbucks, MyPoints, InboxDollars, and Rakuten can help you get free gift cards by earning points which you can redeem for Apple gift cards later.
Are there any apps that help in getting free iTunes gift card codes?
Yes, several apps help you to get free iTunes gift card codes. Swagbucks and Fetch Rewards are examples of apps that reward you with points for completing all different kinds of tasks. You can redeem your points for free iTunes gift card codes.
Where can I find free Apple gift card codes without taking surveys?
Okay, I get it – there are a lot of survey companies on this list! Finding free Apple gift card codes without signing up for a survey site can be a bit challenging, as most websites offering gift cards usually require participation in surveys, focus groups, or product testing. However, you can try using an app like Fetch Rewards, which gives you points for scanning your grocery receipts.
Do giveaways or contests offer a chance to win Apple gift cards?
Yes, you can win free Apple gift cards by entering giveaways and contests. These types of giveaways can be found on social media or websites, and participation often involves simple things that you need to do like following an account, sharing posts, or leaving a comment. You can start by simply searching #giveaway on social media. There are also giveaway websites that you can search for on Google that lists giveaways from around the web.
Are there any websites with free iTunes gift card email delivery?
When you earn a free iTunes gift card through many of the websites above, they typically give you the gift card code via email. Once you have enough points to redeem a gift card, the website will send you the gift card code through email, which you can use to add credit to your Apple account. Using your e-gift cards is very easy and quick! I have done it over 100 times.
How To Get Free Apple Gift Cards – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to get Apple gift cards for free. As you can see, there are many great options! Many of the sites above will give you several different gift card options other than Apple as well, such as free Visa gift cards, Amazon gift cards, and more.
Here’s a list of the different ways you can earn free Apple gift card codes:
Have you ever earned free Apple gift cards? Did you know that this was possible?
Direct Link to offer (keep in mind again that this offer is targeted, check your Apple wallet app, then tap your Apple Card and Daily Cash)
Earn a total of 10% Daily Cash back on up to $2,000 in total qualifying purchases, made outside of Apple, when you use your Apple Card with Apple Pay in each shopping category.
The total Daily Cash back that can be earned with this offer is $200 total, $100 per shopping category.
Shop at Bonus Daily Cash Merchants: you will earn 10% back on up to $1,000 in total qualifying purchases at Ace, Exxon Mobil, Nike, Panera, T-Mobile, Uber, and Walgreens. The maximum Daily Cash you can earn through this offer is $100. The 10% Daily Cash earn rate includes the 3% standard earn rate for purchases made using Apple Pay plus and an additional 7% bonus earn
Shop at Non-Bonus Daily Cash Merchants: you will earn 10% back on up to $1,000 in total qualifying purchases with Apple Pay at Non-Bonus Daily Cash Merchants. The maximum Daily Cash you can earn through this offer is $100. The 10% Daily Cash earn rate includes the 2% standard earn rate for purchases made using Apple Pay plus and an additional 8% bonus earn.
The Fine Print
Offer is limited to the select Apple Card account holder who directly received this offer.
Valid from June 26, 2023 through July 25, 2023.
Card Details
No annual fee
No foreign transaction fee
No cash advance fees
No late payment fees (late or missed payments will result in additional interest accumulating toward your balance)
No over-the-limit fees, no balance transfer fees, no expedited card delivery fee
Card earns the following rewards:
Read our full review on Apple Card here.
Our Verdict
Nice spend bonus. I’m not sure how widely it’s available.
According to the WSJ and CNBC Goldman Sachs is in talks to the sell Apple portfolio (card & savings account) to American Express. This comes after Goldman Sachs announced it would stop bidding for new credit card programs.
Inside: Did you know that you can get cash back when paying with Apple Pay? If not, there are plenty of rewards and perks to be had.
Apple Pay is the newest way to make payments. It’s the easiest, most secure way for you to pay with your iPhone or iPad anywhere credit and debit cards are accepted.
But how does it work? And what can you get back if you use Apple Pay?
Here is everything that we know about using Apple Pay:
Apple Pay is a digital wallet that allows you to pay with your phone for purchases.
It’s an easy way to spend less, save more, and shop responsibly.
In fact, new trends show that 82% of Americans use digital payment methods; a significant increase over previous years (source).
But what if I told you there was a hidden perk of Apple Pay? You can get cash back on every purchase!
What is Apple Pay?
Apple Pay is a digital payment system that was introduced by Apple in 2014. With the mobile wallet, Apple Pay allows users to make payments with their iPhones.
You can pay for products and services in person or online using your iOS device. With Apple Pay, you no longer need physical cards as transactions can be made by scanning your fingerprint, iris scan, or Face ID on your device.
Transactions are more secure than traditional methods. In addition, cashback and credit card rewards programs are available for those who use Apple Pay.
Can you get Cash Back with Apple Pay?
Yes, you can get cash back with Apple Pay!
All you need to do is make sure the store takes Apple Pay and have a card linked with your account. Then, make your purchase as usual and earn cash back just like before.
It’s that easy!
Way #1 – Link Your Cash Back Credit Card to Apple Pay
There are a few ways to add your credit or debit card to Apple Pay. One way is to use the Wallet app on your iPhone and follow the steps below:
Tap the plus sign in the upper-right corner of the app.
Enter your card information manually or scan it with your camera.
Verify your details and tap Next.
Choose how you want to use Apple Pay: With Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode.
Tap Done and wait for a confirmation message that your card has been added.
You earn cash back according to your credit card used with Apple Pay. Also, some credit cards offer additional cash back when using Apple Pay.
Almost all credit card issuers work with Apple Pay.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
Way #2 – Apply for the Apple Card
The card is a new electronic cash back card that gives you 3% back on all purchases from Apple and when using Apple Card with Apple Pay at selected merchants. Plus 2% back on all purchases everywhere else.
Given Apple Pay is accepted by over 85% of U.S. merchants it is easy to maximize your Daily Cash.
You can apply for the Apple Card on the Apple website or in the Wallet app.
Way #3 – Get Debit Card Cash Back with Apple Pay
There are a few different requirements to get cash back when using your debit card with Apple Pay.
First, you must link a debit card to your Apple Pay account. The store accepts Apple Pay and the store must offer cash back on the purchases.
For many people, this is easier than going to ATM.
How does Apple Pay work?
Apple Pay was designed to move consumers away from physical wallets into a world where their card is on their iPhone or Apple Watch.
This is done through contactless payment technology which allows users to make payments by holding their device near a contactless reader. The reader will communicate with the device and complete the payment.
Apple Pay is very simple to use.
What are the benefits of using Apple Pay?
When you use Apple Pay, there are a number of benefits that come along with it.
#1 – More Secure
Using Apple Pay is more secure than using a traditional credit card.
#2 – Cash Back
You can earn “cash back” rewards on your purchases. Just like you normally would.
#3 – Promotions and Deals
Apple Pay also offers a number of promotions and deals that can help you get the most out of your purchases. For example, right now Apple is offering bonus points for those who use their service to pay for their holiday gifts. This allows you to earn rewards like statement credits and real cash back on your routine purchases.
These promos are emailed to their Apple pay users.
#4 – Convenience
Plus, as more companies begin to accept Apple Pay as a form of payment, it’s becoming easier and more convenient to use this mobile wallet instead of carrying around a bunch of cards in your wallet or purse.
So if you’re looking for an easy way to make payments and rack up some rewards at the same time, then Apple Pay is definitely the way to go!
Is Apple Pay secure?
Apple Pay is a digital payment service that allows users to make payments using their iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac, and iPad. One of the main benefits of using Apple Pay is that it is much more secure than using a physical card.
Your card details are not stored on your device or on Apple’s servers, instead, they are encrypted and stored in the Secure Element on your device. In order to make a purchase with Apple Pay, you need to use your Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode.
When you make a purchase, a one-time payment number and code are created so that the merchant can’t access your credit card information. This makes Apple Pay more secure than traditional methods of paying with a credit card.
How do I know if a store accepts Apple Pay?
Apple Pay is a mobile payment system that allows users to make payments with their iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch. It’s accepted at many stores and restaurants and can be linked with any other card you have.
To know if a store accepts Apple Pay, look for one of these symbols at the payment counter:
where can i get cash back with apple pay
When using Apply Pay, select merchants offer 3% Daily Cash back.
You need to check with app to see what each store offers.
Also, many stores offer BONUS daily cash!
What happens if I lose my iPhone with Apple Pay?
If you lose your iPhone with Apple Pay, you can use the Find My iPhone app to suspend or remove your card from Apple Pay.
You can also call Apple Support at 1-800-MY-APPLE (1-800-692-7753) if you need help suspending or removing your card from Apple Pay.
Cash Back with Apple Pay
There are a variety of reasons you may want cash back with Apple Pay. Some just want to earn more money when shopping; others want to skip going to ATM for cash back.
Apple Pay is the company’s contactless payment system that allows customers to make purchases by holding their iPhone near a point-of-sale terminal. Apple has been promoting its cash back program for quite a while now, but many customers have been asking how it works because it is a newer cashless digital payment method.
Yes, you can get cash back with Apple Pay.
You need to learn which payment type is best if you are trying to stick to a budget.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
When you think of everything in your life that needs to be cleaned regularly, your credit card is probably not near the top of the list. But the truth is, during the course of a day, your card can pass through many hands and see plenty of action in credit card readers and ATMs. These exchanges increase the odds of your card picking up dirt, debris, and germs.
Fortunately, there are many ways you can keep your credit card clean without worrying about damaging the plastic, chip, or magnetic strip. Even better, most cleaning methods take less than 30 seconds.
Let’s take a look at some different ways you can practice good credit card hygiene.
Why Clean Your Credit Card?
It’s common knowledge that most paper money and coins carry germs, but credit and debit cards aren’t any cleaner. In fact, microbes, bacteria, and viruses typically stay active longer on hard surfaces like plastic and metal, sometimes for days or even weeks.
If you touch your bacteria- or virus-laden card and then touch your mouth, eyes, or nose, you could be introducing unwanted germs into your body. Washing your hands after handling your card can prevent the spread of germs. So can washing your credit card.
Besides wiping away bacteria, microbes, and viruses, scrubbing your card can also remove dust, dirt particles, and grime. These elements can make your card’s surface feel greasy, gritty, and sticky, and they can accumulate on or around the raised credit card numbers or letters.
Unlimited 2% cash back rewards* and no annual fee.†︎
Earn 3% cash back on up to $12,000 in purchases your first year when you set up direct deposit through SoFi.** After that, earn 2% unlimited cash back on everything.*
Recommended: Cash vs Credit Card: Key Differences to Know
How to Clean Credit Cards
There is no one way to clean your credit cards. The method you use depends on personal choice and the cleaning materials you have on hand. If you’re worried about getting your card wet, rest assured plastic and metal credit cards are meant to be waterproof.
Whatever your cleaning method, there are a couple rules of thumb to keep in mind. The first is to be gentle. Too much elbow grease or force may cause the card to wear down prematurely and could wipe away the ink. The second rule is to dry the card completely before you put it back in your wallet or use it.
Here are some effective ways to clean your credit cards:
Soap and Water
You can wash your credit card as you would your hands — with good old soap and water. Simply suds up your card with hand or dish soap and warm water, and gently clean for 20 seconds before rinsing it off completely. Wipe dry with a paper towel, soft rag, or lint-free microfiber cloth.
Rubbing and Isopropyl Alcohol
Both types of alcohol can be used to clean your cards. Simply wet a cotton ball, tissue, paper towel, or soft cloth with the alcohol and wipe the card. To remove stubborn gunk trapped around the raised letters or digits of your card, try using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Antibacterial or Sanitizing Wipes
The same wipes you use to clean surfaces at home can also be used on your credit cards. These products work to rid your card of any bacteria and viruses hanging out on your credit or debit card.
Multi-surface household cleaner
An all-purpose cleaner will also do the trick of cleaning your card. It’s better to spray the solution onto a cotton ball, paper towel, or clean rag instead of directly onto your card. Vinegar, which also works as a household cleaner, is another option.
UV Light Sanitizer
These devices use ultraviolet light to kill any viruses and bacteria found on nonporous surfaces. Often used to kill germs on cell phones, many of these machines sanitize credit cards as well.
One caveat: If you have a credit card made of metal or a metal composite, you may need to follow a different cleaning regimen. Apple, for example, warns against applying certain products or methods when cleaning the titanium Apple Card. On the list are household or window cleaners, compressed air, ammonia, and abrasive cleaners. If you have a metal card and aren’t sure what material it’s made of, check with your credit card issuer before cleaning it.
How to Clean the Chip and Magnetic Strip on a Credit Card
There may be times when you insert a credit card into a chip reader or swipe it at the card reader machine, but can’t complete the transaction. This could be because your credit card’s chip or magnetic strip needs to be cleaned.
You might think getting the chip or strip wet would damage the card, but in reality, the chip reader and magnetic strip can be cleaned with the methods mentioned above. However, you don’t want to soak your card in any liquid — even soapy water — or scrub the chip or strip too hard. Doing so can damage it over time.
There are also ways to de-gunk a chip or strip that don’t involve cleaning products. For instance, after gently wiping off your card, you can use a rubber eraser to lift any remaining strip residue. Another option is to place a piece of clear tape over a dirty strip or chip and then peel it off.
5 Things to Avoid Doing When Cleaning a Credit Card
Not all cleaning methods are created equal. In fact, some could damage your card. Here are five to avoid.
1. Scrubbing with a rough sponge
You don’t need to apply too much pressure or scour your card with an abrasive sponge. Both could damage the card, especially the chip and magnetic strip.
2. Your washing machine
You might think throwing your card into the wash with your clothes is harmless. But the harsh chemicals found in most laundry detergents could do more harm than good. For one thing, they can cause the card’s protective coating to peel off.
3. Hand sanitizer
While hand sanitizer can work in a pinch, it isn’t the best product to use when cleaning off your card. The moisturizing ingredients in the gel or liquid can leave behind a residue.
4. Soaking in rubbing alcohol
While you can wipe down your card with rubbing alcohol, experts warn against submerging your card in it because it can be corrosive.
5. Using heat
Heat and hot water can kill off germs, but using very high temperatures to clean or sterilize your credit card can actually damage it. Using a blow dryer, a clothes dryer, or boiling water to blast off any germs can cause the card’s plastic to soften or warp.
Cleaning vs Disinfecting a Credit Card
Both cleaning and disinfecting your credit card are effective, but they aren’t synonymous, and one step should precede the other.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you should clean first and then disinfect. Why? Washing a surface before you do anything else removes impurities like dirt, whose presence may make it harder for the chemicals in sanitizers and disinfectants to reach and kill germs.
How Often Should Credit Cards Be Cleaned?
How often you should clean your card largely depends on how often you use it. Ideally, you should clean your credit cards after every use, though that can be difficult if you’re out and about and using your card at different places. Generally, aim to clean your card once a day if you use it regularly, or once a week if you don’t.
Recommended: 7 Tips to Help You Use Your Credit Cards Wisely
Other Credit Card Maintenance Tips
Your wallet can get pretty dirty, making it harder to keep your credit card clean. Try storing it in a plastic photo holder or a card protector sleeve. Your credit card company may have issued your card in one, or you can make your own by wrapping a credit card-sized piece of paper around the card and taping the ends together. Another option is to purchase a separate credit card holder.
You may also want to use contactless credit card payments, which allow you to avoid swiping or inserting your card into a reader. One way to do that is with a contactless credit card. These cards feature an icon that resembles the wi-fi symbol and let you “tap and pay” at a payment machine.
You may also decide to store your credit card in a mobile wallet, which is a virtual wallet that lives on your cell phone, smartwatch, or other mobile device.
Recommended: 11 Tips for Cleaning Up Your Finances
The Takeaway
Any time your credit card changes hands or is inserted into card readers and ATMs, it can pick up dirt and germs that can live on the surface for days or even weeks. Cleaning your credit cards regularly can help protect you from bacteria, viruses, and other germs. Using soap and water, rubbing alcohol, antibacterial wipes, or multi-surface household cleaners may all help you keep your card in tip top shape. Using a contactless credit card or mobile wallet are other ways to cut down on your card’s exposure to germs.
If you’re looking for a new credit card, consider a rewards card that makes your money work for you. With the SoFi Credit Card, you earn cash-back rewards on all eligible purchases. You can then use those rewards for travel or to invest, save, or pay down eligible SoFi debt. The SoFi Credit Card offers unlimited 2% cash back on all eligible purchases. There are no spending categories or reward caps to worry about.1
Take advantage of this offer by applying for a SoFi credit card today.
FAQ
Can credit cards survive being washed?
They can, as long as you use gentle methods and surface-friendly products. Things to avoid: using an abrasive sponge and scrubbing too hard; submerging your card in potentially corrosive liquids like rubbing alcohol; and running the card through the washing machine.
Why do people clean their credit cards?
Credit cards can accumulate dirt and germs whenever they change hands or are inserted into a card reader or ATM. Cleaning your credit cards gets rid of bacteria and viruses that can stay on your cards for a period of time. But it can also remove stubborn grime that can scrape or otherwise damage your chip or magnetic strip.
Can you clean a magnetic strip on a credit card?
You can clean a magnetic strip with soap and water, an antibacterial wipe, rubbing alcohol, a safe household cleaner, or a UV light sanitizer. You can even use a pencil eraser or a piece of clear tape to remove dirt from a magnetic strip.
Photo credit: iStock/Khosrork
1Members earn 2 rewards points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases. If you elect to redeem points for cash deposited into your SoFi Checking or Savings account, SoFi Money® account, or fractional shares in your SoFi Active Invest account, or as a payment to your SoFi Personal, Private Student, or Student Loan Refinance, your points will redeem at a rate of 1 cent per every point. If you elect to redeem points as a statement credit to your SoFi Credit Card account, your points will redeem at a rate of 0.5 cents per every point. For more details please visit SoFi.com/card/rewards. Brokerage and Active investing products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. SoFi Securities LLC is an affiliate of SoFi Bank, N.A. The SoFi Credit Card is issued by The Bank of Missouri (TBOM) (“Issuer”) pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. SoFi cardholders earn 2% unlimited cash back rewards when redeemed to save, invest, or pay down eligible SoFi debt. Cardholders earn 1% cash back rewards when redeemed for a statement credit.1 Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances. Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners. SOCC0423010