Best Rewards Credit Cards in Canada for 2024

 



Understanding How Reward Credit Cards Work

Reward credit cards work similarly to standard credit cards, with an additional advantage: rewards.

Each purchase using your card accrues a set number of points, miles, or cash back, determined by the card's reward structure. As your spending increases, so do the rewards you earn.

These rewards provide versatility when redeemed, offering options for travel, merchandise, gift certificates, or as a credit on your bill. Certain reward credit cards offer additional benefits like travel insurance, purchase protection, and exclusive event access.

To truly make the most of a reward credit card, it's vital to clear your balance each month and use it frequently enough to earn more rewards than the fees you incur.

4 Types of Reward Credit Cards

There are plenty of reward credit cards available, each with its reward structure and benefits. The 4 most common types include:

  1. Cash Back Credit Cards: These cards provide a percentage of your spending back as cash. You can use the cashback rewards as a statement credit or check or deposit them directly into a bank account.
  2. Travel Credit Cards: Travel Credit Cards provide an option to accumulate miles or points to cover travel costs like buying plane tickets, booking hotels, and renting cars.
  3. Gas and Grocery Credit Cards: These cards offer increased reward rates for gas stations and grocery store purchases. They are suitable for individuals who frequently spend in these categories.
  4. Store Credit Cards: These cards are affiliated with specific stores or groups, granting points for purchases made within those establishments. These points can be exchanged for merchandise, discounts, or special deals.

Best Reward Credit Cards In Canada

 

Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card
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Annual Fee: $0
Purchases Interest Rate: 19.95%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 19.95%
Min Income Requirement: $12000
Why Apply:
  • No annual fee
  • Unlimited rewards
  • Automatic monthly cash back redemption
  • Flexibility
  • Get more rewards
Recommended Credit Score:
670 900
Average to Excellent
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Apply for a Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card by April 30, 2024 and earn an extra 10% back (up to $100)
when you spend up to $1,000 in everyday purchases within your first 2 months.*

1.95% interest on the transferred balance for the first 6 months


Regarded as one of the best credit card in Canada, Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card provides no annual fee, a lucrative 2% cash back in up to 3 merchant categories, and 0.5% on all other purchases with no caps, tiers or limits. It provides choice, value and convenience to beginner credit card users and even works great as a secondary credit card.

  • No annual fee -The no annual fee for both primary and secondary holders means that you are not paying for your cash back.
  • Unlimited rewards -Earn as much cash back rewards regardless of the category.
  • Automatic monthly cash back redemption -Every month, Tangerine will either apply your cashback dollars against your credit card balance or deposit it directly into your Tangerine Savings Account.
  • Flexibility - You can choose 2-3 categories for the 2% cash back and change categories once every 90 days to match your spending pattern.
  • Get more cash back rewards -Maximize your credit card rewards by choosing another cash back credit card that has bonus categories and using your Tangerine card to expand and get more bonus categories.


If you've been looking for a credit card that offers money-back rewards, then the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card might be right for you. The card has no annual fee and is designed to offer cash back on all purchases made with the card - anytime during the year!

Great credit card for those who would like to maximize the cashback they earn by choosing their spend categories to earn more cashback.

Viewed as one of the best credit cards in Canada, Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card provides no annual fee, a lucrative 2% cash back in up to 3 merchant categories, and 0.5% on all other purchases with no caps, tiers or limits. It provides choice, value and convenience to beginner credit card users and even works great as a secondary credit card. 

Apply for a Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card by April 30, 2024 and earn an extra 10% back (up to $100) when you spend up to $1,000 in everyday purchases within your first 2 months.*

 The most notable feature is the cash back rewards. Who wouldn't want to earn money while they spend! In order to determine an estimate of how much you'll earn using this card, take your total credit card spending per month and multiply it by 1%. Typically, these card users average out to 1% cash back on purchases between the special 2% categories and 0.5% on all other purchases. If you spend $1,000 a month, you'll earn $10 ($1,000 x 0.01)!

Tangerine's Money Back Credit Card has lower than average fees as well. In addition, they are an excellent bank to work with since they're owned by Scotiabank. More often than not, Tangerine's clients benefit indirectly from Scotiabank's services without paying the big bank fees. That being said, Tangerine's services are so affordable because they don't offer in person services the way traditional banks do. If that's something you value, this card might not be right for you.

Tangerine Money Back vs World Mastercard®

Wondering what's the difference between the 2 cards Compare the Tangerine Money Back vs World Mastercard®

 

TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card
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Annual Fee: $120
Purchases Interest Rate: 20.99%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 22.99%
Min Income Requirement: $60000
Why Apply:

 

  • Generous sign-up bonus
  • Rich travel rewards
  • Flexible travel options
  • Full range of travel insurance benefits
Recommended Credit Score:
670 900
Average to Excellent

 

The product of TD's partnership with Expedia, the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card is a great card for travelers. It comes with a host of travel benefits including a flexible points program, generous sign-up bonus and impressive travel insurance coverage.

 

  • Generous sign-up bonus - For a limited time, new applicants can receive up to 100,000 TD bonus points ($800 value when redeemed for travel) 
  • Rich travel rewards- Book your flights or any form of travel on ExpediaforTD.com and get back an equivalent of 4.5% for every dollar spent. This is a lot compared to the 2% reward offered by most travel credit cards in Canada. Plus, ExpediaforTD offers the same access to flights and hotels offered by Expedia.com, giving you a lot of options for flights and hotel packages at your fingertips.
  • Flexible travel options - You can redeem your points for almost everything travel-related such as flights on any airline, hotel stays, car rentals and vacation packages. Points can also be used to cover the cost of taxes and fees as well as be used to redeem merchandise and gift cards from TD's e-store.
  • Full range of travel insurance benefits - Get fully covered and protected with a comprehensive travel insurance that includes $1,000,000 in travel medical coverage and rental car insurance.

The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card is a great travel and reward credit card with extensive insurance coverage and benefits.

The product of TD's partnership with Expedia, the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card is a great card for travelers. It comes with a host of travel benefits including a flexible points program, generous sign-up bonus and impressive travel insurance coverage.


This credit card taps into one of the largest travel tools out there - Expedia. Not only can card holders use their points to purchase travel products on Expedia for TD, when they make a purchase they earn nine points per dollar spent. That’s one of the quickest ways to earn travel points in Canada! Keep in mind that Expedia for TD has all of the flights, hotels and travel packages that the regular Expedia site has. Fortunately, there are no black out dates or other limitations when booking. Points never expire and can go towards taxes and other fees. If travel isn’t for you, you can also redeem points for merchandise and gift cards through TD. However, this way, you won’t get as much value for your purchase.

 

When you obtain the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite, you will receive a welcome offer of 20,000 points after your first purchase and 80,000 TD Points when you spend $5,000 within 180 days of Account opening. 

 

While enjoying your travels abroad, you will benefit from travel insurance as well with the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite. The main travel insurance coverage includes medical emergency, travel accidents, trip cancellation, car rental insurance, delayed or lost baggage and trip interruption. During your flights, you also can access lounges at a discounted price.

 

All of these features are great, but the card requires a $120 annual fee and income of $60,000 individually or $100,000 among the household(Annual fee waived at this time). Additional users also come with a $50 fee. The good news is that if you have a TD All Inclusive Banking Plan with $5,000 in it at all times, the annual fee will be waived. The bad news is if you dip below $5,000 in that account, you will be charged $30 per month which works out to be more than the annual fee.

 

The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite is an excellent choice for individuals who travel once a year or more because card holders will earn points quickly on regular purchases. In addition, there are an array of benefits that the card holder can benefit from. So long as you can afford the annual fee and meet the income requirements, consider getting this credit card today!

American Express Cobalt® Card
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Annual Fee: $155.88
Purchases Interest Rate: 20.99%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 21.99%
Min Income Requirement: Not Available
Why Apply:
  • Generous first-year rewards
  • Redeem anything you want
  • Transferability of points
  • Monthly fee
  • Free supplementary card
Recommended Credit Score:
670 900
Average to Excellent

While geared towards young people, the American Express Cobalt® Card  has plenty features and benefits that make it appealing to a wide range of people. It offers 5x more points on eats and drinks from grocery shopping to dining out, and 2x points on travel and transit. Additionally, the ability to transfer points to hotel partners or to the Fixed Points Travel Program makes this the best travel credit card in Canada with a fee. If you spend a lot on food and travel, then this credit card deserves a place in your wallet.

  • Generous first-year rewards - You have the ability to earn up to 15,000 bonus points in the first year.
  • Redeem anything you want -Reward points can be redeemed for travel, restaurant, movies, and merchandise. Unlike other rewards card, you can use your points for almost anything you want.
  • Transferability of points -You can transfer points into the Marriott Bonvoy rewards system which unlocks access to amazing rewards programs like British Airways, Aeroplan, and more than 30 other airline partners. You can also transfer to the Hilton Honors rewards program at 1:1 ratio.
  • Monthly fee - Instead of paying for a one-time annual fee, you are charged every month, giving you time to test out the card and cancel it if it's not the right fit for your spending habits.
  • Free supplementary card - This usually costs an additional $50 on most rewards card. Get one for an immediate family member and boost your earning potential.

The American Express Cobalt® Card started out as a credit card designed for millennials and young professionals. Today, it’s one of the most flexible and versatile credit cards out there. In fact, it’s now commonly used by people from all walks of life because of the lucrative benefits. 

One reason the American Express Cobalt® Card is so popular is because of the quick rewards that come with it. Points can be earned on everyday purchases which is what makes the earnings accumulate so rapidly. On food and drinks, such as grocery, restaurant, food delivery, bar and cafe purchases, cardholders earn five points per dollar spent. 

On transit and travel, cardholders earn two points per dollar spent. These rewards are not limited to vacation only, cardholders will earn points when they spend on public transit, taxis and Ubers too. All other purchases earn one point per dollar spent. As you can see, no matter what your lifestyle is, you’ll quickly rack up points! 

Points can be redeemed to cover the cost of flights and accommodation with 1,000 points being equivalent to $10. Flights don’t have any blackout dates and you can choose any airline you’d like. In addition, the points can be used to cover fees and taxes. If you don’t have an upcoming trip, you can also spend your points on events through Ticketmaster at a rate of 2,000 points to $20. As you probably noticed, the rate of return is the same when you spend on travel and events which is fantastic! For less bang for your buck, you can also use your points for gift cards or merchandise purchases. 

Cardholders benefit from travel insurance as well. The insurance covers things like travel accidents, car rental insurance, medical emergencies, flight interruption or delay among others. Last but not least, cardholders gain access to American Express Invites which are limited offer, exclusive events. 

All of these benefits sound amazing but there’s a cost for all the wonderful benefits. There’s a monthly fee of $12.99, which works out to be $155.88 per year. The monthly payment makes it easy for most to manage. Also, you need to make between $60,000 and $80,000 per year and have decent credit. The only disadvantage is the cap rate on the bonus points is 30,000. Another downside to this bonus is the points can’t be redeemed in a lump sum. This means there is a delay between when you earn the points and when you can redeem them. 

That being said, the American Express Cobalt® Card is still an excellent option for those who travel a lot and make lots of eligible purchases.

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SimplyCash® Preferred Card from American Express
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Annual Fee: $119.88
Purchases Interest Rate: 20.99%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 21.99%
Min Income Requirement: Not Available
Why Apply:
  • High cashback rewards
  • Complete suite of insurance and protection plans
Recommended Credit Score:
670 900
Average to Excellent

If you are comfortable with shelling out a small fee of $99 per year, then the SimplyCash Preferred Card from American Express is one of the best cashback rewards cards. Those who want to maximize their rewards can take advantage of the limited-time 10% cashback rewards. It also offers a comprehensive insurance package that's worth more than $100 in value.

 

Why We Like It:

  • High cashback rewards One of the highest we've seen, the 10% promo cash back is a welcome opportunity for people who have a major purchase coming up. After the four-month promotional period is up, it returns to a still high 2% cash back with no limits. Cash back is applied as a statement credit to your account each September.
  • Complete suite of insurance and protection plans This Amex card offers extensive insurance that includes insurance against rental car damage, travel accident, foreign medical, and baggage theft as well as double manufacturer's warranty and insurance against theft or damage for purchases.

The SimplyCash Preferred credit card allows you to earn while you spend. There are no categories or limitations - wherever you spend, you’ll earn cash back with no earning caps. While the credit card does come with an annual fee of $99, you’ll benefit from numerous perks in addition to cash back.

SimplyCash® Preferred Card from American Express

The American Express SimplyCash Preferred Card offers cardholders an incredible range of benefits that include high cashback rates and a referral bonus. American Express offers exceptional customer service to its cardholders, with customer care professionals that are available to answer questions and deal with card problems, such as lost or stolen cards, 24 hours a day.

Features and Benefits of the SimplyCash® Preferred Card

  • Fantastic Welcome Offer. Earn up to $400 in Statement Credits
  • Cash Back Rate. Earn 2% cash back on all purchases.
  • Up to $1,500 cashback annually for approved referrals
  • No Limit on Earnings. After the welcome offer expires, there are no limitations on earnings with the 2% rate. 
  • Travel and Shopping Insurance. Travel abroad and shop around with peace of mind. Insurance coverage includes travel accident, car rental theft and damage, buyers assurance protection and much more.
  • Entertainment Benefits. Access special event offers from American Express, such as theatre, music, fine dining, fashion and shopping.
Pros and Cons of the SimplyCash® Preferred Card

Pros
  • Cashback is earned on every purchase made with your card
  • There are no limits on the amount of cashback you can receive
  • Travel insurance limits are generous
  • Early access to concerts and other events

Cons

  • Amex isn't accepted as widely as Visa and Mastercard

The Takeaway

The American Express SimplyCash Preferred Card is an excellent option for those who are looking for a generous cashback program. Individuals who travel frequently for business or pleasure can also benefit from this card's included travel insurance, which covers accidents, medical expenses, and even lost baggage. Although this card comes with great benefits, it's important for potential users to consider the downfalls, which is the fact that some retailers across Canada don't accept American Express cards.It is always good to have a Visa or Mastercard credit card as a backup.

  Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card
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Annual Fee: $120
Purchases Interest Rate: 20.99%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 22.99%
Min Income Requirement: Not Available
Why Apply:
  • Generous sign-up bonus
  • Flexible redemption options
  • Travel convenience
  • Additional protection
Recommended Credit Score:
670 900
Average to Excellent

With a generous rewards rate of up to 6 points per dollar on gas, groceries, restaurants and entertainment, the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card will help make your travel plans a reality. Plus, with a flexible points program, you can book you flights on your own schedule.

  • Generous sign-up bonus -The Scotiabank Gold American Express® offers a way for new cardholders to quickly stockpile points. It lets you earn up to 45,000 bonus Scene+™ points in your first year (that’s up to $450 towards travel)   
  • Flexible redemption options - With the Scotia Rewards Program, you can book your travel with any airline or hotel through its full-service travel agency. You can use your points to cover the whole cost of the trip, including taxes and fees, or combine your points and a charge to your card. Points can also be used to book hotels and rental cars.
  • Travel convenience - Added features such as rental car discounts and hotel room upgrades are designed to make travel as convenient and comfortable as possible.
  • Additional protection - This Amex credit card provides has one of the most comprehensive travel protection benefits with insurance against flight delays and lost baggage even insurance against burglaries.

With a generous rewards rate of up to 6 points per dollar on gas, groceries, restaurants and entertainment, the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card will help make your travel plans a reality. Plus, with a flexible points program, you can book you flights on your own schedule.Excellent credit card with 7 types of travel coverage and great reward earn rates.

  • Generous sign-up bonus -The Scotiabank Gold American Express offers a way for new cardholders to quickly stockpile points. It lets you earn 45,000 bonus Scene+™ points in your first year. 
  • Flexible redemption options - With the Scotia Rewards Program, you can book your travel with any airline or hotel through its full-service travel agency. You can use your points to cover the whole cost of the trip, including taxes and fees, or combine your points and a charge to your card. Points can also be used to book hotels and rental cars.
  • Travel convenience - Added features such as rental car discounts and hotel room upgrades are designed to make travel as convenient and comfortable as possible.
  • Additional protection - This Amex credit card provides has one of the most comprehensive travel protection benefits with insurance against flight delays and lost baggage even insurance against burglaries.




Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite* Card
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Annual Fee: $120
Purchases Interest Rate: 20.99%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 22.99%
Min Income Requirement: $60000
Why Apply:
  • Welcome bonus
  • No-nonsense rewards
  • Enhanced insurance package
Recommended Credit Score:
670 900
Average to Excellent
Apply Nowlock On Scotiabank's Secure Website

For people who love to eat and drive, the Scotia Momentum VISA Infinite Card is the best rewards credit card with a fee. It provides an unrivaled 4% cash back on food and gas along with 2% on recurring payments and drugstore purchases, and 1% on the rest. On top of that, this card also comes with comprehensive insurance benefits and concierge benefits.

  • Welcome bonus:Earn 10% cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months (up to $2,000 in total purchases). No annual fee in the first year, including on supplementary cards.
  • No-nonsense rewards Rewards are clear, transparent, easy to earn and easy to redeem. Cash back rewards are paid out annually either as a deposit to eligible chequing or savings account or credited to your credit card statement.
  • Enhanced insurance package The improved insurance package is comparable with other more premium cards. It provides comprehensive coverage on travel, including rental car collision loss or damage as well as purchase security and extended warranty protection.
  • Additional Perks. Obtain exclusive offers from Scotiabank including concierge service, competitive hotel rates and upgrades, and access to dining and wine country programs.
  • Annual Fee. Gain access to all of the above perks at the cost of $120 after the first year.

Excellent credit card with outstanding benefits and full insurance coverage.

The Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite card was the winner of the MoneySense best cashback card with a fee in 2020 - and for good reasons! Card holders earn cash back on all purchases at varying rates. There are also other perks of card ownership including access to exclusive Scotiabank events and offers, plus ample insurance coverage.

  • Special Welcome Offer. Earn 10% cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months (up to $2,000 in total purchases). No annual fee in the first year, including on supplementary cards.
  • Tiered Cash Back Rates. Earn 4% cash back for every dollar spent on groceries and recurring bill payments. Earn 2% cash back for every dollar spent on gas and daily transit. Finally, earn 1% cash back for every dollar spent elsewhere.
  • Additional Perks. Obtain exclusive offers from Scotiabank including concierge service, competitive hotel rates and upgrades, and access to dining and wine country programs.
  • Insurance Coverage. Ample coverage comes with this credit card, such as new mobile device, trip cancellation, trip interruption, purchase protection insurance and much more.
  • Annual Fee. Gain access to all of the above perks at the cost of $120 after the first year.
Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card
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Annual Fee: $120
Purchases Interest Rate: 20.99%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 21.99%
Min Income Requirement: Not Available
Why Apply:
  • Free hotel stays
  • Loyalty rewards
  • Airline conversion
  • Shopping and travel protection
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Upgraded status
Recommended Credit Score:
740 900
Excellent

While geared towards hotel rewards, the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Credit Card is also a great card for travelers with a multitude of redemption options as well as valuable travel and shopping benefits. The free hotel stays are enough to pay for the annual fee. And when combined with the flexible travel points, this credit card is one of the best choices for both hotel and travel benefits.

 

  • Welcome bonus- New Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Cardmembers earn 50,000 Welcome Bonus points after you charge $1,500 in net purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership.
  • Earn 5 points for every dollar in eligible Card purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
  • Free hotel stays – Points can be redeemed for free nights with no blackout dates at more than 7,000 affiliated hotels. Plus, this credit card gives you a Free Night Award every year after your membership anniversary.
  • Loyalty rewards – Earn 6x base points per dollar at Marriott-affiliated properties when you use the card and 11x base points per dollar for being a Marriott member. This gives you 17x points per dollar or more!
  • Airline conversion – Points are transferrable to more than 40 airlines.
  • Shopping and travel protection – Get protected against travel emergencies and accidents, car rental theft and damage, flight and baggage delay, and hotel or motel burglary.
  • No foreign transaction fees – Perfect for online and overseas purchases.
  • Upgraded status – Get complimentary Silver Elite Member Status or a fast track to Gold Elite status by spending $30,000 in a calendar year.Earn 5 points for every dollar in eligible Card purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®

As the credit card’s name implies, spending on this card allows you to collect points towards the Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program. This loyalty program allows you to redeem points on Marriott, Delta, Renaissance, Sheraton and Westin hotels, to name a few. Points can be used towards the base cost, taxes and fees. In addition, there are no restrictions or blackout dates, you can book whichever dates you want. Last, but definitely not least, this is the only Canadian credit card that earns Marriott Bonvoy points!

 

If you don’t want to use your points for a hotel room, you can transfer your points to an airline loyalty program. There are tons of participating airline programs, including Aeroplan. Receive a 15,000 point bonus from the Marriott BonvoyTM program when you transfer 60,000 points to a frequent flyer program. There are several other uses for the points you earn using this credit card, but the hotels and flights are where you’ll get the best value. Given how many options there are, you likely won’t be redeeming your points elsewhere!

 

Card holders earn five points for every dollar spent at a Marriott property and two points for every dollar spent elsewhere. You’ll also earn 50,000 Welcome Bonus Marriott Bonvoy® points after you charge $1,500 in net purchases to your Card in your first three months of Cardmembership.

Finally, card holders receive fifteen Elite Night credits every calendar year, Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status, Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status when you spend $30,000 on your credit card in a year, guaranteed in-room internet and basic travel insurance. All of these benefits come with a $120 annual fee.

 

Unlike most AMEX credit cards, this one is not a charge card. That means that the credit card’s balance can revolve from month to month without additional repercussions. If you don’t pay your full credit card balance every month, not having a charge card is ideal. In addition, there are no income requirements aside from paying the annual fee. On the contrary, the only pitfall is that American Express isn’t as widely accepted as Visa or Mastercard. This can be challenging when travelling or even using your credit card on a day to day basis.

 

Overall, the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Card is one of Canada’s finest credit cards. The versatility of the credit card allows you to use your points towards hotels and flights which truly is the best of both worlds. If you’re an avid traveler, this may be the credit card of your dreams!

Tangerine World Mastercard®
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Annual Fee: $0
Purchases Interest Rate: 19.95%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 19.95%
Min Income Requirement: $60000
Why Apply:

Earn extra Rewards
Boingo Wi-Fi for Mastercard®
On-Demand and Subscription Services
Mobile Device Insurance

Recommended Credit Score:
670 900
Average to Excellent
Apply Nowlock On Tangerine's Secure Website

The World Mastercard offers new perks to their customers that are not available to Tangerine Money-Back Mastercard users. Mobile insurance of $1,000, rental car insurance worth $65,000 for 31 days and Mastercard airport experiences are perks that cardholders gain access to. Both of these insurance packages are beneficial for individuals who have a smartphone and are renting cars often.

The Tangerine World Mastercard is a new addition to Tangerine’s financial products. As with the Tangerine Money-Back Mastercard, there is no annual fee, 2% cash back on three categories and 0.5% cash back on all other purchases. Some of Tangerine’s spending categories include restaurants, furniture, groceries, gas, home improvement and entertainment.

Apply for a Tangerine World Mastercard® by April 30, 2024 and earn an extra 10% back* (up to $100) when you spend up to $1,000 in everyday purchases within your first 2 months.

The World Mastercard offers new perks to their customers that are not available to Tangerine Money-Back Mastercard users. Mobile insurance of $1,000, rental car insurance worth $65,000 for 31 days and Mastercard airport experiences are perks that cardholders gain access to. Both of these insurance packages are beneficial for individuals who have a smartphone and renting cars often. In addition, with the Mastercard LoungeKey membership, you can access airport lounges all over the world at a discounted rate.

 

All in all, the Tangerine World Mastercard is an excellent choice because of the cash back rewards and other perks. Start earning cash on your expenditures today!

Tangerine Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tangerine a good credit card?

Tangerine has two credit cards. The Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card and the Tangerine World Mastercard. Both offer no annual fee and a 19.95% interest rate. They offer purchase assurance and extended warranty on products fully purchased with their credit cards.

Tangerine also offers 2% Money-Back Rewards in two categories of your choice and 0.05% on all other everyday purchases. If you deposit your Money-Back directly into a Tangerine savings account, you unlock a third 2% Money-Back Rewards category. This credit card has no cap on the amount of Money-Back Rewards you can earn. The Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card is a great choice and is competitive with the credit card options of big banks. The Tangerine World Mastercard has added benefits and is harder to qualify for. Benefits include: Mastercard travel rewards, Mastercard airport experiences, mobile device insurance, car rental insurance, and worldwide wi-fi hotspot access.

How do I qualify for a Tangerine credit card?

Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card

To qualify for this credit card, you must have: a gross annual income of $12,000 plus, be the age of majority in your province or territory, be a permanent resident of Canada and be clear of bankruptcies over the past 7 years.


Tangerine World Mastercard

To qualify for this credit card, you must have: $60,000 plus gross annual income OR $100,000 plus household income OR $250,000 in Tangerine bank accounts. AND you must: be the age of majority in your province or territory, be a permanent resident of Canada and be clear of bankruptcies over the past 7 years.

Does Tangerine do a credit check?

Yes, Tangerine will do a credit check as you must agree to a credit check as part of your application process for either credit card Tangerine offers.

What credit bureau does Tangerine use?

Tangerine pulls credit history and credit scores using the TransUnion credit reporting agency.

How do I increase my Tangerine credit card limit?

Tangerine does not provide information on their website about how to increase credit card limits. In most cases, maintaining a good payment history and low borrowing load will welcome credit increases. Often banks and creditors will offer regular increases without requests, but you will be asked and must approve these increases. If you would like a credit increase, you can call and speak to Tangerine’s client service representatives, who can walk you through their specific process and submit your request for a credit increase. Tangerine, like most banks, has an online credit increase form you should be able to complete and submit on your own too.

How can I apply for a Tangerine credit card?

You can apply for a Tangerine credit card online, but you will need to register as a Tangerine client first. If you are already a Tangerine client, you can apply online or call now.

Tangerine Money Back vs World Mastercard®

Wondering what's the difference between the 2 cards? Compare the Tangerine Money Back vs World Mastercard®

 

Platinum Card® American Express
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Annual Fee: $799
Purchases Interest Rate: -%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: N/A%
Min Income Requirement: Not Available
Why Apply:
Recommended Credit Score:
740 900
Excellent

This card is the most exclusive credit card in the market however it comes with a $799 annual fee which is one the highest for a Canadian credit cards. The Platinum Card® is perfect for those who are looking for a luxury credit card with outstanding benefits, rewards, insurances, and platinum experiences. The annual fee is high however a frequent traveler will enjoy every single benefit on this card.


Platinum Card's rewards earn rate:

  • Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada
  • Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel
  • Earn 1 point for every $1 in all other Card purchases

 
Pros

  • Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points - that’s $1,000 towards a weekend away


No credit limit:
There is no preset credit limit with this credit card

Premium airport lounge access: Complimentary access to over 1,300 airport lounges across 130 countries.

Premium insurance: The Platinum Card® offers different types of insurance like below:

  • $500,000 Travel Accident
  • Travel Emergency Assistance
  • Trip Cancellation /Trip Interruption
  • Car Rental Theft/Damage
  • Lost or Stolen Baggage
  • Flight Delay
  • Baggage Delay


Cons

High annual fees: The Platinum Card has an annual fee of $799. Each additional card is $175.

Simplii Financial™ Cash Back Visa* Card
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Annual Fee: $0
Purchases Interest Rate: 19.99%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 22.99%
Min Income Requirement: $15000
Why Apply:
Recommended Credit Score:
670 900
Average to Excellent
Apply Nowlock On Simplii Financial 's Secure Website

If you love to get a lot of cash back on your purchases and you want to see those dollars pouring in, then you'll simply love the Simplii Financial® Cash Back Visa* Card. This "simple" cash back card offers some of the best rewards on the Canadian market, giving you cash back of up to 10%.

 

This amazing card comes with no annual fee and allows you to add up to 3 additional cardholders. It offers you a wide range of rewards, including unlimited cash back, payment app integration, extended protection insurance, purchase security, and extras.

 

In terms of cash back, you'll earn 4% on eligible restaurants and coffee shops, 1.5% on groceries, pre-authorized payments, gas & drugstore purchases, and 0.5% on all other credit card purchases. You can quickly calculate your cash back with the tool on their website.    

 

Optionally, you can add CIBC payment protector insurance and emergency travel medical insurance. To become eligible for this card, all you need to have is a minimum of $15k household income.

MBNA Rewards World Elite® Mastercard®
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Annual Fee: $120
Purchases Interest Rate: 19.99%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 24.99%
Min Income Requirement: Not Available
Why Apply:
Recommended Credit Score:
670 900
Average to Excellent


If you're quite into reward points and you spend a lot of money on groceries, gas and travelling, then the MBNA Rewards World Elite® Mastercard® is an excellent choice for you. With this card, you can earn 2 points for every dollar you spend. However, the introductory offer is simply exceptional.

 

During the first 3 months, you can earn up to 30,000 points, which are worth over $30. You can continue earning points and use them when shopping on the MBNA Rewards Catalogue, travelling, or even to improve your balance.

 

Compared to any other reward cards offered by MBNA, the World Elite is the only one that comes with free concierge service, extended coverage and price protection of up to 60 days.

 

However, in order to get your hands on this card, you'll have to meet the requirements: earn more than $80k a year solo, or $150k as a household. You also need to be willing to pay $120 a year, which could be quite a lot. Nonetheless, this card is worth its price, especially if you're travelling a lot and you love concierge services.

American Express® Green Card
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Annual Fee: $NA
Purchases Interest Rate: 20.99%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 21.99%
Min Income Requirement: Not Available
Why Apply:
  • Potential to earn 10,000 Membership Reward points
  • Points can be redeemed towards eligible purchases to reduce credit card bill
  • Early access to concerts and other events
Recommended Credit Score:
670 900
Average to Excellent

American Express Green® Card

 

  • Welcome bonus: Earn 10,000 Bonus Membership Rewards® points when you charge $1,000 in purchases to your Card in your first three months of Cardmembership
  • Cardholders earn one Membership Reward point for every $1 spent with the card
  • Points can be redeemed toward eligible card purchases, such as groceries, dining out, and streaming services
  • Front of the Line ticket access for concerts, dining, film, and other experiences with American Express Invites
The American Express Green® Card is a points card that comes with a variety of benefits. Members receive points on every purchase and can redeem them for bill credits, gift cards, travel purchases, and eligible purchases on Amazon.ca. The card also includes special access to concerts, dining, and other experiences. As with all American Express cards, the Green Card comes with 24/7 access to customer care, fraud protection, and emergency card replacements when needed.


American Express Green® Card


The American Express Green® Card is a points card that comes with a variety of benefits. Members receive points on every purchase and can redeem them for bill credits, gift cards, travel purchases, and eligible purchases on Amazon.ca. The card also includes special access to concerts, dining, and other experiences. As with all American Express cards, the Green® Card comes with 24/7 access to customer care, fraud protection, and emergency card replacements when needed.

 

Features and Benefits of the American Express Green® Card

  • Welcome bonus: Earn 10,000 Bonus Membership Rewards® points when you charge $1,000 in purchases to your Card in your first three months of Cardmembership
  • Cardholders earn one Membership Reward point for every $1 spent with the card
  • Points can be redeemed toward eligible card purchases, such as groceries, dining out, and streaming services
  • Front of the Line ticket access for concerts, dining, film, and other experiences with American Express Invites

Pros and Cons of the American Express Green® Card

Pros

Cons

  • No annual fees
  • Potential to earn 10,000 Membership Reward points
  • Points can be redeemed towards eligible purchases to reduce credit card bill
  • Early access to concerts and other events
  • No travel insurance included with this card
  • Amex isn't accepted as widely as Visa and Mastercard


The Takeaway

The American Express Green® Card is a simple, day-to-day credit card that's ideal for consumers who are after a card without annual fees. Its Membership Rewards program is a great benefit that shows appreciation for cardholders by providing access to the rewards they want most in return for using their card. While the 10,000 point bonus is a major selling point for this card, it's important for new cardholders to keep in mind that they need to spend $1,000 in the first three months to qualify for this benefit.

 

American Express® Aeroplan®* Card
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Annual Fee: $120
Purchases Interest Rate: -%
Cash Advance Interest Rate: -%
Min Income Requirement: Not Available
Why Apply:
Recommended Credit Score:
740 900
Excellent

American Express Aeroplan Card

The American Express Aeroplan Card is a charge card that allows users to also collect points towards the Aeroplan loyalty program. Check out the features of the credit card below.

Rewards

The Aeroplan Card allows users to earn points towards Air Canada’s Aeroplan loyalty program. With this credit card, you will earn points at the following rates:

  • Earn 2 points per dollar spent on Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations
  • Earn 1.5 points per dollar spent on dining and food delivery in Canada
  • Earn 1 point per dollar spent elsewhere

Currently, there is a welcome bonus for this credit card of up to 50,000 Aeroplan®* Points.New American Express® Aeroplan®* Cardmembers can earn up to $900 in value within your first year and a bonus Buddy Pass:

 

Fees

Before applying for the Aeroplan Card, you should be mindful of the fees. Below is a list of fees that are associated with this credit card.

  • Annual fee: $120
  • Interest rate: 30%*
  • Additional cards: $50 each

* Note: This credit card is a charge card which means the balance must be paid in full each month. If the balance is not paid in full, interest will be charged.

Other Features

Given that the Aeroplan Card is a travel-based credit card, it comes with an array of travel perks. Below are some additional benefits that come with this card.

  • Your first checked bag is free on Air Canada flights for up to 9 people.
  • Earn Aeroplan Elite Status faster.
  • No pre-set spending limit.
  • Access to AMEX special offers including Front Of The Line and exclusive experiences.
  • Travel insurance coverage.
  • Purchase protection and extended warranty.

3 Benefits of Using Reward Credit Cards

Reward credit cards offer a range of benefits that make them worth adding to your wallet, including:

  1. Earn rewards on everyday purchases: From groceries to fuel to travel bookings, these cards accumulate points, miles, or cash back, allowing you to benefit from regular spending.
  2. Additional perks: Many reward credit cards extend benefits like travel insurance, extended warranty coverage, and exclusive event access, increasing the value of your card and enhancing your spending experience.
  3. Goal-oriented benefits: Customized cards assist in reaching specific financial goals. For frequent travelers, travel rewards cards help save on travel expenses, while store credit cards offer discounts and exclusive offers for frequent shoppers at specific stores.

 

3 Potential Drawbacks of Reward Credit Cards

Despite the numerous benefits, reward credit cards also have potential drawbacks that you should be aware of, including:

  1. High costs: Reward credit cards often come with high-interest rates and annual fees, which can become costly if you carry a balance, potentially outweighing the rewards earned.
  2. Complex reward programs: Some cards have complex reward structures that might be challenging to understand, making it tough to maximize the benefits. Limitations and restrictions on redemption can make it challenging to get the most out of your rewards.
  3. The risk of overspending: Given the incentive to earn rewards, there's a temptation to overspend beyond your financial capacity. This behavior can result in debt and financial challenges if not carefully managed.

 

3 Essential Tips to Unlock the Potential of Your Reward Credit Cards

Here are 3 tips that you can rely on to get the most out of your reward credit card:

  1. Clear Your Balance Monthly: Avoiding interest charges is key. Ensure you pay off your monthly balance to preserve your earned rewards and prevent additional costs.
  2. Comprehend Your Card's Reward System: Understanding how your card's rewards function is crucial. Know how to earn and redeem rewards, and be mindful of any constraints or rules that apply.
  3. Use Your Card Regularly: Utilize your card for daily expenses like groceries and fuel. This way, you can accumulate more rewards as you spend.

 

5 Types of Credit Card Rewards Programs in Canada

In Canada, there are different types of reward programs for credit cards. Each one offers its benefits and advantages. Here are some of the popular ones:

  1. Travel Rewards Programs: Travel rewards programs are ideal for frequent travelers. They give you points you can use for flights, hotels, and similar things. Some programs even let you move your points to airline or hotel loyalty programs.
  2. Cashback Programs: Cashback programs suit those who like easy and flexible options. They give you a part of your spending back as cash rewards, a simple way to cut down on costs or get a little extra cash.
  3. Merchandise Rewards Programs: Shopaholics can revel in merchandise rewards, earning points for purchases redeemable for various products, from electronics to home goods.
  4. Hybrid Rewards Programs: These versatile programs combine travel, cashback, and merchandise rewards, allowing flexible redemption based on preferences.
  5. Co-Branded Rewards Programs: Co-branded programs offer bonus rewards at affiliated stores by partnering with specific retailers, making them appealing to frequent shoppers.

 

Choosing the right program hinges on understanding your lifestyle and spending patterns. Match your goals and habits to the rewards program that aligns best with your needs.

Comparison of 5 Popular Credit Card Rewards Programs In Canada

When it comes to choosing credit card rewards programs in Canada, the choices might feel overwhelming. Let's compare some popular credit cards available in Canada:

  1. Scotiabank Rewards: Scotiabank provides a versatile rewards program allowing you to collect points from everyday purchases. These points can be used for travel, purchases, or as a credit for your bill. The program also offers additional perks like travel insurance and airport lounge access.
  2. American Express Membership Rewards: With this program, you collect points on a wide range of purchases. You can even move these points to different airline or hotel loyalty programs, offering more ways to use your rewards. Also, you get access to premium events and experiences.
  3. TD Rewards: TD Rewards offers lots of flexibility and options for using your points. You can earn points on everyday shopping and can use them for travel, shopping, or getting gift cards. There are also bonuses like travel insurance and a concierge service.
  4. BMO Rewards: BMO Rewards is known for its easy-to-understand system. You earn points on everything you buy and can use them for travel, shopping, or to cover part of your bill. There are travel perks like insurance and discounts on car rentals, too.
  5. Air Canada Aeroplan: This program focuses on travel rewards. You get Aeroplan points for flying with Air Canada or using their partnered credit cards. You can use these points for flights, hotels, car rentals, and more. You also get extras like priority check-in and more luggage allowance.

When comparing rewards programs, consider earning potential, redemption options, fees, and additional benefits. Choose the one that matches what you want and gives you the best value for your spending.

4 Tips for Choosing the Right Reward Credit Card

You must consider your spending habits and financial goals when selecting a reward credit card.

  1. If you travel frequently, a travel rewards card might be a good fit.
  2. In case you spend a lot on groceries and gas, a card that offers high rewards rates on these categories might be beneficial.
  3. Consider the card's annual fee and interest rate. Make sure the rewards you'll earn will offset these costs.
  4. Look at the card's additional benefits and perks. These can add significant value and make a card more appealing.

 

How Reward Credit Cards Impact Your Finances

Reward credit cards offer advantages in earning rewards on regular purchases and saving money. They assist in achieving specific financial objectives, such as travel savings.

However, they also pose risks, including encouraging overspending, accruing high-interest charges on balances, and the potential impact of elevated annual fees on overall rewards.

As a result, strategic and responsible usage is crucial to harness the benefits while mitigating the negative effects on finances.

Positive Impacts of Reward Credit Cards 

Negative Impacts of Reward Credit Cards

Earning rewards on everyday spending         

Encouragement of overspending

Potential money-saving benefits

High-interest charges for balances

Assistance in achieving financial goals (e.g., travel savings)

High annual fees affecting rewards

 

Conclusion

Reward credit cards offer an excellent opportunity for financial gain if handled wisely. They provide a unique method to earn rewards on everyday purchases and offer additional advantages that enhance their overall worth. However, they also come with potential drawbacks that require careful management.

Understanding how they operate, choosing the right one to suit your needs, and using them effectively can maximize their rewards, making your expenses more fruitful. Responsible usage and smart spending are crucial for making the most of these credit cards.

 

Author Bio

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Mohamed Konate

Mohamed Konate is a personal finance expert, blogger, and marketing consultant based in Toronto. He is a former financial services professional who worked at major Canadian financial institutions for many years. He managed the marketing strategy around various financial products ranging from credit cards to lines of credit. Mohamed is passionate about personal finance and holds a Bachelor's in Business Administration from the University of Quebec (Montreal) and a Master's in International Business from the University of Sherbrooke (Quebec). He is also the author of the Canadian Credit Card Guidebook.