When planning your travels, choosing the right credit card can make all the difference. The Discover it® Miles is designed with travelers in mind, offering a flexible, straightforward, and rewarding experience. With its standout features and benefits, it caters to individuals who value ease of use, reliable rewards, and no hidden fees. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or someone planning their first big trip, this card has something for everyone.
The Discover it® Miles stands out by offering 1.5x Miles on every purchase you make and doubling your rewards in the first year through the Discover Match® program. Combine this with no annual fee and the flexibility to redeem rewards as cash or statement credits, and you have a card that prioritizes your financial freedom. Let’s explore what makes this card a top choice for savvy travelers.
Key information about the credit card
How does the annual fee work?
One of the standout features of the Discover it® Miles is that it charges no annual fee. This is particularly significant for cardholders who want to maximize their travel rewards without worrying about additional costs. Many travel credit cards impose yearly fees that can range from $95 to over $500, depending on the card’s benefits. However, the Discover it® Miles ensures that you can earn unlimited Miles and redeem them however you like, without the burden of an annual fee eating into your savings.
How is the credit limit determined?
The credit limit for the Discover it® Miles card is determined based on your creditworthiness and financial profile. Discover evaluates factors such as your credit score, income, and existing debt when deciding your limit. Unlike prepaid or secured cards, the limit here is set by the institution, giving you the flexibility to manage your spending without needing to deposit funds upfront.
Advantages of the Credit Card
- Unlimited miles: Earn 1.5x Miles on every dollar spent, with no caps or restrictions. Whether you’re dining out, shopping, or booking a trip, every purchase brings you closer to your next adventure.
- First-year match: At the end of your first year, Discover automatically matches all the Miles you’ve earned, effectively doubling your rewards without requiring additional spending.
- No expiration: Your Miles never expire, giving you the flexibility to save up for larger trips without the pressure of time limits.
- Flexible redemption: Redeem Miles as cash, a statement credit for travel purchases, or even at checkout on platforms like Amazon.com or PayPal.
- No foreign transaction fees: Use your card abroad without worrying about extra charges for international transactions.
- Wide acceptance: Discover is accepted at 99% of places in the U.S. that accept credit cards, ensuring reliability wherever you go.
- No annual fee: Save money every year while still enjoying premium travel rewards.
Standout advantage
The standout advantage of the Discover it® Miles card is its Mile-for-Mile Match in the first year. Unlike many rewards programs that require spending thresholds or promotional categories to maximize benefits, Discover simplifies the process. At the end of your first year, every Mile you’ve earned is automatically doubled. For example, if you accumulate 35,000 Miles, Discover will match it, giving you a total of 70,000 Miles—equivalent to $700 in travel credits or cash.
Disadvantages
- Limited acceptance internationally: While widely accepted in the U.S., Discover may not be as commonly accepted abroad compared to Visa or Mastercard.
- No luxury travel perks: The card lacks premium benefits like airport lounge access, travel insurance, or concierge services that some high-end travel cards offer.
- Flat rewards rate: For travelers seeking higher rewards in specific categories, such as dining or travel, the flat 1.5x Miles rate may seem less competitive.
A standout disadvantage
The main disadvantage of the Discover it® Miles card is its limited international acceptance. While Discover boasts near-universal acceptance in the U.S., it may not be as reliable overseas. This could pose a challenge for frequent international travelers who need a card they can depend on anywhere. While Discover is making strides to expand its network globally, some countries still prefer other major card networks like Visa and Mastercard.
Who can apply for this card?
The Discover it® Miles card is accessible to a broad range of applicants, but there are specific criteria to meet. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. A good to excellent credit score (typically 670 or higher) is generally required to qualify. Additionally, applicants should have a stable income to demonstrate their ability to manage credit responsibly.
Discover also evaluates the applicant’s credit history and overall financial standing. While the card is not explicitly targeted at individuals with bad credit or limited credit history, those who meet the requirements can enjoy an easy online application process. Having a clean credit report without defaults or recent bankruptcies is often a key factor in approval.
How to apply for the Discover it® Miles Card
For the website
To apply online, visit the official Discover website and navigate to the Discover it® Miles card page. Click on the “Apply Now” button to begin your application. The online form will request essential information such as your name, address, Social Security Number, and income details. Ensure that all information is accurate to avoid delays in processing. Once submitted, you may receive an instant decision, or you might be contacted for additional documentation if needed.
Through the app
The Discover mobile app offers a seamless way to apply for the Discover it® Miles card. Download the app from your device’s app store, create an account, and follow the prompts to access the application form. Using the app not only allows you to apply for the card but also lets you track the status of your application in real-time. It’s a convenient option for tech-savvy individuals who prefer managing their finances on the go.
At the branch
While Discover primarily operates online, you may also apply in person at participating branches or partner locations. Visit a local branch with your identification and financial documents to complete the application process. A representative will guide you through the steps and answer any questions you may have. This method is ideal for individuals who prefer face-to-face interaction during the application process.
