Aeroplan Launches HotelSavers

by Jeannyn Gomez
Aeroplan Launches HotelSavers

With Aeroplan’s launch of the HotelSavers program, members can use points to book top hotel brands worldwide. The points redemption program is made possible directly through Aeroplan hotel partnerships. Members can book hotel stays with 30% fewer points than other non-Aeroplan bank-bank-based travel programs.

Aeroplan Launches Hotel Rewards Program For Canadians

Aeroplan, Canada’s leading travel loyalty program, has launched HotelSavers, a program that allows members to book hotel stays with their Aeroplan points. For the first time, Aeroplan is focusing its efforts on delivering a hotel rewards program for Canadians. Aeroplan credit card holders now have the option to redeem points for both Air Canada flights and hotel stays at superior rates.

In addition, members can access hundreds of hotels through the Aeroplan member-exclusive reservation platform. Thanks to Aeroplan’s direct hotel partnerships for the HotelSavers program, members can enjoy greater value for their earned points outside of flights.

“When Canadians want to fly on points, they can already count on Aeroplan as Aeroplan credit card holders can redeem for Air Canada flight rewards for an average of 30% fewer points than if they used points for non-Aeroplan Canadian bank-based travel programs. However, no one has focused on delivering Canadians a great hotel rewards program – that changes today. With HotelSavers, we’re now offering Aeroplan members great options to book hotels using their points – without compromising the excellent value they’ve come to expect. HotelSavers is yet another way we’re investing to solidify Aeroplan as the go-to rewards choice for all Canadians who travel,” said Scott O’Leary, Vice President, Loyalty and Product at Air Canada. Press Release.

HotelSavers Benefits and Features

The HotelSavers program includes over 7,000 points hotels from around the world, including 39 hotel brands across 11 chains with some of the world’s most coveted hotels and unique properties. With the HotelSave program, Aeroplan members will have a variety of hotel options ranging from affordable standard rooms to the most luxurious stays.

Members will have hotel stays available for every budget and can book rooms with as little as 10,000 points per night for a standard room with no restrictions to availability. Members are welcome to check the Aeroplan rewards grid to determine how many points are needed per hotel category. There is a total of eight reward categories which range from economy to luxury.

Luxury
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts, Taj Hotels, Small Luxury Hotels of the World, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton Hotels and others
Premium
Le Germain Hotels, Omni Hotels & Resorts, Noble House Hotels & Resorts, Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts, Pullman, Hotel Indigo, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts and others
Midscale & Economy
Coast Hotels, Holiday Inn Hotels, Novotel Hotels & Resorts, Alt Hotels; Ibis and Ibis Styles

Split Your Points

Furthermore, members have a 50/50 option when it comes time to redeem points with the HotelSaver program. In other words, members can opt to use only half of the total points necessary for any chosen hotel category. The other half would be up to the member to cover with cash. Please note taxes are always included and refundable rates will be available too.

Related Article: The Differences Between US and Canadian Credit Cards

Featured image by AirCanada

Chase Freedom Announces New 5% Back Grocery Offer

by Cory Santos
chase-freedom-new-5-back-grocery-offer

Last updated on September 19th, 2023

New Chase Freedom Flex or Chase Freedom Unlimited cardmembers can earn up to $800 in cash back through Chase’s lucrative new welcome bonus. For a limited time, Chase is offering a $200 welcome bonus after spending $500 on purchases during the first three months from account opening, plus 5% cash back on groceries with its Freedom family of credit cards.

Chase Offering Up to 5% Back on Groceries for New Freedom Flex/Unlimited Cardmembers

The Chase Freedom Flex and Freedom Unlimited are popular cash back options in a crowded space. Both cards earn straightforward cash back rewards, in addition to lengthy 0% intro APR periods and no annual fee.

With inflation at a 40-year high, Chase is currently looking to provide even more value for consumers. In doing so, the issuer highlights its impressive welcome offers on its Freedom cards to inspire consumers and entice applications. For example, new cardmembers can earn $200 after spending $500 on purchases during the first three months from opening an account. Additionally, new cardmembers can earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target or Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year. All told, this introductory offer is worth up to $800 in cash back on grocery purchases.

With the cost of grocery items rising 13.5% over the past year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the impact of rising food costs is on everyone’s mind. This new grocery offer for Chase cardmembers can help them earn ample cash back during the holidays, and even on last-minute items.

About Chase Freedom Flex and Freedom Unlimited

In addition to the new welcome offer, Freedom Unlimited and Freedom Flex cardmembers can earn impressive rewards with everyday use of either card. Here is what the two Chase Freedom credit cards offer on a daily basis (and not just during the welcome period):


Chase Freedom Unlimited
Chase Freedom Flex
No annual fee No annual fee
Earn 5% back on Chase travel, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1.5% on everything else Earn 5% on up to $1,500 on combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate
0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers

As mentioned, the Chase Freedom Flex earns 5% back on up to $1,500 on combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter. These 5% categories require activation and they apply to the following purchases in 2022:

5% Cash Back Category
January - March 2023 Groceries (excluding larger stores like Target or Walmart) and eBay
April - June 2023 Amazon.com and select streaming services
July - September 2023 Gas stations, car rentals, movie theatres, and select live entertainment
October - December 2023 PayPal and Walmart

Related Article: The Ultimate Guide to Credit Cards for Groceries & Delivery Services

Featured image by kc0uvb / PixaBay

Uber Launches Rewards Debit Card for Drivers

by Jeannyn Gomez
Uber Launches Rewards Debit Card for Drivers

Uber is launching a rewards debit card for its drivers and couriers. The Uber Pro Card is part of the Uber Pro loyalty program expansion. With it, Uber plans to reward their drivers at the gas pumps and EV charging stations along with many more new features. The loyalty program expansion is all made possible through Uber’s latest partnerships with Marqueta, Branch, and Mastercard.

A New Way to Offer Drivers Support on the Road

In a new press release, according to Andrew Macdonald, Senior Vice President, Mobility & Business Operations at Uber, the mobility company is always hunting for new ways to offer drivers and couriers more support on the road. Thus, the new Uber Pro Card is Uber’s way to enhance its loyalty program and payment experience by helping drivers and couriers save on gas, fees, and other expenses.

Uber’s partnerships have made the new debit card come to life. The collaborations include Marqueta, a modern card issuing platform, and payment solutions platform on a journey to help businesses simplify payments. In addition to partnerships with Mastercard, they have partnered with Branch, which provides instant payments for any workforce, therefore creating flexible access to earnings in real-time. In addition, cardholders will also gain a business checking account powered by Branch.

Additionally, the Uber Pro Card is a Debit Mastercard BusinessCard®. Through Mastercard, drivers and couriers can enjoy increased purchasing flexibility, plus built-in tools and benefits to help manage cash flow. In addition, cardholders get access to affordable healthcare through Stride for things like medical and vision. Stride provides healthcare option that enables better choices for independent workers, such as those for Uber.

How Does the Uber Pro Card Work?

Furthermore, the Uber Pro Card will be instantly available for cardholders to use within their mobile wallets and will feature contactless payment. Drivers and couriers will also get guaranteed cash back on refueling, including free automatic cashouts after every trip. However, the cash back drivers and couriers earn fueling up will depend on the Uber Pro status. The higher the Uber Pro status, the more cash back cardholders will get. For example, drivers with Diamond status earn up to 10% cash back on gas, while drivers with Blue and Green statuses can get up to 5% cash back.

Cardholders will also have other opportunities to earn cash back via cash back deals on the Driver App on things like dining at select restaurants and hotel stays. Part of the new expansion for the Uber loyalty program is that the drivers’ earnings will be instantly available in real time. The money earnings will go directly to the Uber Pro Card, which drivers can then use to withdraw cash for free at thousands of ATMs.

“At Uber, we are always looking for new ways to offer drivers and couriers more support on the road,” said Andrew Macdonald, Senior Vice President, Mobility & Business Operations at Uber. “The new Uber Pro Card will allow drivers and couriers take home more of what they earn. Drivers and couriers will now have the ability to get more cash back on gas and EV charging and have their earnings automatically deposited to their accounts after each trip – free of charge.”

In addition, the debit card has a Backup Balance feature which grants drivers access to $150 whenever they need it. Another positive is cardholders can access the Uber Pro Card App to track earnings, transfer money to other bank accounts, earn rewards, and manage savings – all in one place.

Related Article: The Best Gas Rewards Credit Cards of 2022

Featured image by Business Wire & Uber 

Southwest Teach the Love Contest Honors Educators

by Cory Santos
chase southwest teach the love event

Southwest and Chase have launched the Teach the Love contest, which will send deserving teachers on learning-fueled Edu-Vacation trips, celebrating their teaching specialties or personal interests. Nominations are currently being accepted for the three grand prize recipients who can select their all-expenses paid trip to one of five education-inspiring destinations across the US.

Chase and Southwest Launch Teach the Love Contest

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Credit Cards from Chase has launched a new contest to show praise to deserving educators. The Teach the Love contest will send three winning teachers on learning-fueled Edu-Vacation trips, celebrating their teaching specialties or personal interests.

The contest will be championed by celebrity spokesperson Derek Hough, who’s shown support for education through his philanthropic commitments and his longtime run as an instructor on Dancing with the Stars (not to mention his role as a drama teacher on High School Musical: The Musical: The Series!).

Nominations will be accepted today through November 9, 2022, on the contest website. Current and former students 18+, parents, and fellow teachers are invited to nominate a standout educator for a chance to win a one-of-a-kind Edu-Vacations.

Prizes

Three grand prize winners can select from five education-inspiring destinations and have their hotels, flights, and experiences fully covered in one of the following learning-fueled hot spots:

  • Kahului (Maui), Hawaii, for marine biology fans
  • Chicago, Ill., for fine arts and architecture lovers
  • Washington, DC, for American History buffs
  • Palm Springs, Calif., for geology fanatics
  • Nashville, Tenn., for music connoisseurs

Seven runners-up will also be chosen to receive 30,000 Southwest Rapid Rewards points for use towards their own Edu-Vacations.

“Honoring Hard Working Teachers”

“Teachers play an influential role in so many lives, and now is an important time to celebrate their hard work,” shared Matthew Schlitz, General Manager of Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cards from Chase. “Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cards reward our customers by providing exclusive benefits that make traveling easier and more enjoyable. We’re excited to pull this sentiment through to the Teach the Love contest by honoring hard-working teachers with trips to expand their knowledge and inspire their craft.”

“Our Purpose at Southwest is to connect people to what’s important in their lives,” said Jonathan Clarkson, Vice President of Marketing Loyalty & Products at Southwest Airlines. “This partnership brings together our coveted Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card perks and passion for travel in order to celebrate teachers who’ve played important parts in our journeys, especially over the last few years, and take them on a trip they’ll remember fondly forever.”

About Chase and Southwest

Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cards from Chase are the fastest way to earn Rapid Rewards points towards more Edu-Vacations, with anniversary points, upgraded boardings, in-flight Wi-Fi, and more.

Chase currently issues five co-branded credit cards with Southwest, including the Premier, Priority, and Plus consumer credit cards. There are also two small business credit cards, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business and Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card.

Additional, Limited-Time Chase Offer for Marriott Bonvoy Boundless

Chase and Marriott are offering a special, limited-time-only welcome bonus on the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card. Eligible new accounts can earn 100,000 welcome bonus points after spending $3,000 in the first three months from account opening. This new welcome offer runs until October 27, 2022.

The upcoming holiday season makes this welcome bonus especially tantalizing for travelers. The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless earns 3X points per $1 on gas stations, grocery stores, and dining, on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year. One hundred thousand points is a mighty haul, but so are the points on offer with regular spending with the Boundless Card. And, since many holiday journeys involve road trips, the Boundless is an ideal companion for gas, dining, and last-minute holiday purchases.

Related Article: Chase Ink Business Premier Now Available

Featured image by Chase/Southwest

New Chase Ink Business Premier Now Available

by Cory Santos
chase-ink-business-premier-now-available

Chase has launched the new Chase Ink Business Premier credit card. The new business card earns up to 2.5% cash back on purchases. It is available to all eligible businesses, both online and in-branch, and charges a $195 annual fee.

Chase Launches “Pay in Full” Chase Ink Business Premier

Chase has launched the new Chase Ink Business Premier credit card. The new cash back business card is available to all eligible businesses, both online and in-branch.

The Chase Ink Business Premier is the only 2% cash back credit card available in the market that also offers an unlimited 2.5% large purchase bonus on all expenditures over $5,000. For business owners with significant spending, that means more cash back that can be reinvested into their business to grow and scale.

The Chase Ink Business Premier is Chase’s first “pay-in-full” business card. The card provides access to increased spending power, rich rewards, and premium benefits for businesses that prefer to pay their balance in full each month. However, for those customers needing more flexibility, Premier’s built-in Flex for Business feature gives cardholders the ability to pay for eligible purchases over time with interest.

Chase Ink Business Premier is an embedded metal card with an annual fee of $195, which is easily offset by the card’s lucrative reward offers. Eligible new accounts also earn $1,000 cash back on $10,000 in business purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Additional Chase Ink Business Premier benefits include:

  • Turning all business expenses into rewards. Unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase.
  • Larger rewards for larger purchases. Unlimited 2.5% total cash back on every purchase of $5,000+.
  • Making business travel more rewarding. Unlimited 5% total cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
  • Add employee credit cards with confidence. Monitor spending on employee credit cards for no additional cost with digital tools like purchase alerts, spending limits, and reporting.
  • Premium benefits and protections. Fraud, zero liability protection, and cell phone protection up to $1,000 per claim, with a maximum of 3X per year.

Live for All After a Soft Launch in 2021

The Chase Ink Business Premier credit card was unveiled to select customers in a December 2021 soft launch. The card combines premium rewards, greater spending potential, and built-in flexibility to meet the needs of businesses with higher spend. According to survey data from Chase, business owners have emphasized the noteworthy benefits of using the card for larger unexpected purchases, including scaling their inventory.

“Business owners work hard, and we want their business credit card to work just as hard for them. This card helps owners to grow their business while also being rewarded along the way,” said Jenny Shum, General Manager of Chase Ink, in a press release. “Over the last year, our business customers have affirmed that the card’s rich rewards, increased purchasing power, and payment flexibility have been instrumental in allowing them to scale their businesses. We’re excited to see all the ways they will use the Chase Ink Business Premier credit card to reinvest in their businesses and build something bigger than they ever imagined.”

About Chase Ink

Chase Ink Business Premier rounds out the Chase Ink portfolio with premium card benefits designed for larger-sized businesses and their unique spending needs. Chase Ink’s full suite of products also includes Chase Ink Business Preferred®, Chase Ink Business Cash®, and Chase Ink Business Unlimited®. Each is uniquely designed to maximize benefits for specific business owner needs.

Related Article: Get More Value on Apple Products w/ Chase

Featured image by mwitt1337/PixaBay

Merchants, Congress to Tackle Credit Card Fees

by Cory Santos
Merchants, Congress to Tackle Credit Card Fees

Last updated on April 6th, 2023

Visa and Mastercard are fighting attempts from retailers to limit credit card processing fees. Over 1,600 merchants, including Target and Walmart, feel that the two payment giants have far too much control over credit card fees – and now Congress is stepping in.

Congress Bills Seek to Reign-in Credit Card Fees

Two bills in Congress are aiming for credit card fees. The bills, one introduced in July and another last week, seek to give merchants the right to route many credit-card payments over networks other than Visa and Mastercard. More than 1,600 retailers, including Walmart and Target, have voiced support for the bills. They argue that switching to other payment networks, such as American Express or Discover, could lead to significant savings.

The first bill, introduced in July by Richard Durbin (D., Ill.) and Sen. Roger Marshall (R., Kan.), seeks to give merchants the right to route many credit card payments over networks other than Visa and Mastercard. A second bipartisan bill, introduced on September 19 by Peter Welch (D., Vt.) and Lance Gooden (R., Tx.), echoes the sentiments of the first and seeks to expedite the two bills through Congress.

In a letter this week to all members of Congress, the merchants said the proposed legislation would increase competition, reducing the fees they pay when they accept credit cards. Visa and Mastercard oppose the move, stating that competition in payments already exists and that the fees are necessary for keeping card processing safe and easy.

How do Credit Card Processing Fees Work?

Credit card payment networks charge a fee every time you use a credit card to make a purchase. They cover payment processing charges, interchange fees, and other costs. These credit card processing fees cost a business between 1.5% to 3.5% of each transaction.

At the end of each business day, a merchant’s POS terminal gathers the data of all credit card sales and sends it to the bank in a batch. The bank then goes through each transaction and routes it to the appropriate processing network. The issuers will then debit each transaction amount from each cardholder’s account and transfer it to the processing networks. This will usually take place between a 24 to 48-hour period.

As the issuing bank transfers the funds of all transactions, it subtracts processing fees known as interchange fees, which it shares with the processing networks. It is the processing network that sets and regulates these fees. The remaining funds are transferred to the bank, which also takes a cut of the interchange fee. Almost every party involved in the payment processing of a credit card transaction will charge a small percentage for its services. So while it can be convenient and expedient for merchants to accept credit cards, it is not without its costs.

Related Article: Visa to Categorize Gun Sales

Featured image by mohamed_hassan/PixaBay

Costco Anywhere Visa Vs BJ’s Perks Elite Mastercard: Read This Before Applying

by Cory Santos
Costco Anywhere Visa by Citi or BJ's Perks Elite® Mastercard®

Wholesale clubs offer exceptional value for members. These members-only stores provide significant savings on big-ticket items like TVs, computers, furniture, and bulk grocery items. BJ’s and Sam’s Club are two of the better-known clubs out there – and both issue co-branded credit cards that provide savings on everyday purchases. But which card is right for you – the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi or the BJ’s Perks Elite® Mastercard®?

Costco Anywhere Visa® or BJ’s Perks Elite® Mastercard®: Which Is Right for You?

BJ’s issues two credit cards through Comenity: the BJ’s Perks Plus® Mastercard® and the BJ’s Perks Elite® Mastercard®. Both cards feature no annual fee, but the Plus version resembles Citi’s Costco Anywhere Visa® Card.

Here is how the two cards breakdown across several key metrics:

Pre-Qualification Before Applying

Applying for a credit card requires a credit check. Often, these credit checks (or credit inquiries) are known as “hard inquiries,” meaning the bank pulls your full credit report before approving (or denying) your credit card application. If you apply for a credit card and are declined, your credit score will likely take a minor hit. One way to avoid a negative impact on your credit score before getting a new credit card is by pre-qualifying before you apply.

Does the Costco Visa Let You Pre-Qualify?

Citibank provides a helpful pre-screening service for potential applicants. This service offers pre-qualification for select Citi credit cards, including Costco ones.

Does the BJ’s Perks Elite Mastercard Provide Pre-Qualification?

The BJ’s credit cards do not provide a pre-qualification service.

Credit Score Needed

Since both credit card options are retail credit cards, they are intended for consumers with “good” or “excellent” credit.

How to Apply

Both cards require similar information to apply. Here are the types of information you can expect to provide before applying for either the Costco Anywhere Visa or the BJ’s Perks Elite Mastercard:

  • Name
  • Address (including email address)
  • Phone number
  • BJ’s/Costco membership number
  • Social Security Number
  • Annual income

Annual Fee

As stated, both cards feature no annual fee. However, that doesn’t mean there are no costs associated with the opening (and maintaining) of an account since membership with the warehouse club is required.

BJ’s offers two tiers of membership: Inner Circle membership and BJ’s Perks Rewards membership. Inner Circle membership is $55 per year. BJ’s Perks Rewards membership costs $110 per year.

With Costco, the costs are very similar. The company offers two personal membership levels and one business membership.

Gold Star is the basic Costco membership level and costs $60 per year to join. Costco Gold Star provides access to Costco warehouses and two membership cards. Costco Executive is the top-tier personal membership, providing 2% back in annual rewards. Executive membership costs $120 per year.

Both cards serve as membership cards, saving the cardholder space in their wallet and time when checking out at the register.

Where Can You Use It?

BJ’s Elite credit card uses the Mastercard payment network. Mastercard is currently accepted in 212 countries worldwide. Here is what you can expect from a Mastercard credit card:

 

Zero Liability Protection Mastercard Global Services ID Theft Protection

The Costco credit card uses the Visa payment network. Visa is the world’s largest credit card network in terms of the number of merchants who accept Visa, meaning both cards can be used practically anywhere you want to spend – or earn rewards.

Here is what you can expect from a Visa credit card:

Zero Fraud Liability Cardholder Inquiry Services Emergency Card Replacement
Roadside Dispatch and Auto Collision Damage Waiver Lost/Stolen Card Reporting ID Navigator from Norton

Earning Cash Back Rewards

Both the Costco Anywhere Visa, as well as the BJ’s Perks Elite Mastercard are exceptional gas rewards credit cards. Beyond just gas, both cards also provide quality rewards on dining and purchases made at the respective warehouse clubs.

Here’s how the cash back rewards breakdown with the two credit cards:

Savings on Gas

The Costco Anywhere Visa by Citi is one of the very best gas credit cards, thanks to the impressive rewards rate in that category and the lack of an annual fee. The Costco Visa offers 4% back on eligible gas, including gas at Costco for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% after that

In contrast, the BJ’s Elite Mastercard offers 10¢ off per gallon at BJ’s Gas, plus 2% cash back on purchases at gas stations not associated with BJ’s. According to statistics, the average American fills up their car at least twice per month, with the average fuel tank around 14 gallons in size. Based on those statistics, this would represent around $3 in savings each month, or $36 per year.

Savings at the Wholesale Club

The BJ’s Elite Card offers 5% cash back on BJ’s purchases. This cash back rate is an improvement versus the entry-level  BJ’s Perks Plus® Mastercard®, which works with the basic, Inner Circle tier of membership. BJ’s Plus Perks cardholders earn 3% back on purchases with BJ’s.

The Costco Anywhere Card offers 2% cash back on purchases from Costco and Costco.com. That flat rate is comparable to another credit card offering from Citibank – the Citi® Double Cash Card.

Other Ways to Earn Rewards

Both versions of BJ’s Mastercard offer 2% cash back on dining and 1% back on all other purchases. The Costco Anywhere Visa provides 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases worldwide, and 1% back on all other purchases.

The travel bonus category is great for Costco members who prefer cash back at their favorite box store but also want rewards when exploring the world on vacation. Citi’s “eligible travel” categories fit this purpose to a T, with airfare, car rentals, cruise lines, Costco Travel purchases, hotel, and travel agency bookings all eligible for 3% back.

Do Rewards Expire?

Rewards with the BJ’s Mastercard expire after six months. For Costco Anywhere Visa, the rewards are automatically redeemed, meaning cardholders have nothing to worry about – besides racking up the rewards.

Recap

Here is a quick recap of all the features of both cards:


Costco Anywhere Visa® Card
BJ's Perks Elite® Mastercard®
  • 5% cash back on gas anywhere Mastercard is accepted (on first $6,000 per year, then 1%)
  • 3% cash back on Sam’s Club purchases for Plus members. Club members earn 1% cash back
  • 3% cash back on dining and takeout
  • 1% cash back on other purchases
  • Save 10¢ off per gallon at BJ’s Gas®
  • 5% cash back on most BJ’s purchases
  • 2% cash back on dining and non-BJ’s gas stations
  • 1% cash back for everything else
No annual fee No annual fee

Related Article: The Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards

Featured image by Gam-Ol  / PixaBay

Square Integrates Tap to Pay on iPhone for US Sellers

by Jeannyn Gomez
Square Integrates Tap to Pay on iPhone for US Sellers

Last updated on February 28th, 2023

Square has integrated Tap to Pay on iPhone for US sellers. Square merchants can now simply use just their iPhones to take a payment without additional hardware attachments. Here’s what you need to know about the Tap to Pay on iPhone launch from Square.

Square Enables Tap to Pay on iPhone For Its Merchants

Square has integrated Tap to Pay on iPhone for US sellers. Millions of sellers across the US on the Square Point of Sale iOS app will have access to the convenience and flexibility of accepting payment through iPhones. Tap to Pay on iPhone is Apple’s contactless payment capability and Square has integrated the new technology into its app.

In other words, an iPhone alone with no additional hardware can accept a payment from a customer to a seller by using Apple’s Tap to Pay on iPhone. The contactless payment provides a solution for both new and established sellers to conduct in-person sales with only an iPhone. It provides easy, on-the-go streamlined payments from anywhere in the United States, so long as you have a cellular connection with the internet and an iPhone.

How Does it Work?

It’s as simple as using Apple Pay. With a compatible iPhone, the Square merchant must open the Square POS app and then ring up the sale by presenting their iPhone to the buyer. The buyer then completes the payment by tapping a contactless form of payment method—for example, Apple Pay (digital wallet) or a contactless credit card or debit card.

With Tap to Pay on iPhone, customers and sellers can be sure the payment exchange is a safe one. The iPhone’s built-in features help keep businesses’ and customers’ data private and secure. A big reason why payments are secured is that Apple servers do not store card numbers on devices, therefore keeping peace of mind for both sellers and buyers with confident purchases.

Earlier in June of 2022, Square announced its plans to work with Apple and initiated Square’s Early Access Program. It granted select sellers access to begin testing the new Tap to Pay on iPhone technology. As a result, a wide range of sellers found value in the ability to seamlessly take secure payments via their iPhones when running their businesses, such as:

  • Mobile professionals like contractors and caterers gained the ability to take contactless payments onsite at their project location securely.
  • Retailers found new efficiency through line busting and the convenience of helping shoppers complete their purchases wherever they are in the store.
  • Hairstylists and beauty professionals benefited from the speed and ease of enabling customers to pay for their services right from their chairs.

“Deploying Tap to Pay on iPhone has really enhanced the retail experience we’re able to provide our shoppers, in multiple ways,” said Franco Salerno, owner of Warrington, Pennsylvania-based Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo and an Early Access Program participant. “Our young customer base would rather use their digital wallets or contactless cards and rolling out Tap to Pay on iPhone has helped us meet our shoppers’ preferences with a convenient solution that also brings an air of sophistication to the buying experience. What’s more, given our store’s large footprint, we’ve been able to speed up purchases by bringing the checkout process to wherever our shoppers are.”

Learn more about Tap to Pay on iPhone here.

About Square

Square offers payment solutions for small, medium, and large businesses to build their customer base and expand their business in-store and online. Square provides tools for businesses to run commerce in a secure way with technology. In addition, they provide handy tools for the customer side of the business, such as loyalty programs, message hubs, and more. Furthermore, not only does Square cover tools for commerce and customers but they also offer solutions for banking and staff management.

Related Article: The Best Cash Back Credit Cards of 2022

Related Article: The Best Credit Cards for Amazon Prime Day 2022

Featured photo by Square.com 

Mastercard Extends DoorDash Benefits for World and World Elite Cards

by Cory Santos
mastercard-adds-doordash-lyft-benefits-to-world-cards

Last updated on March 7th, 2023

Mastercard has announced an extension to some perks of the network’s premium credit cards. The company revealed an extension in its DoorDash partnership, to its World Mastercard and World Elite Mastercard products, including three free months of DashPass.

Mastercard Extends DoorDash Benefits for World and World Elite Mastercard Products

Mastercard has announced an extension of one of its most popular card member benefits: DoorDash. Through September 2023, World Mastercard and World Elite Mastercard holders enjoy an automatic $5 discount on their first two DashPass orders each month. This discount requires an active DashPass in order to take part. Fortunately, those new to DashPass enjoy their first three months free of charge.

The $5 discount will automatically be applied to the first two orders made by a cardholder with a DashPass membership when paying with a World or World Elite Mastercard. If you cancel your order, or if it is refunded for any reason you will not get the $5 discount back. Mastercard offer may not be combined with any other promotion.

Mastercard World Elite Offers Top Level Protections & Benefits

Mastercard World and World Elite cardholders can enjoy one of the best features on their credit cards – through September 2023. The second-largest payment network globally, trailing only Visa, already offers basic protections for all credit cardholders, including Zero Fraud Liability and ID Theft Protection. Select cardholders, however, receive even more value with their Mastercard.

World and World Elite Mastercards enjoy various perks, thereby making them enhanced offerings when compared to “standard” Mastercard products. However, annual fees from the issuing banks often accompany these benefits. World Mastercard and World Elite Mastercard benefits include complimentary ShopRunner memberships, cell phone protection, and Mastercard Global Concierge assistance.

Here are all the benefits and protections from Mastercard World Elite:

Zero Liability Protection Airport Concierge Cell Phone Protection
Mastercard Global Services Priceless Experiences Lyft Credits
ID Theft Protection Priceless Golf Mastercard Travel Services
Mastercard Hotel Stay Guarantee

You Might Qualify for Free DashPass through Chase

Complimentary DashPass might be available to you beyond those three months – if you have an eligible Chase credit card. Since January 2020, Chase and DoorDash have worked together to offer a range of complimentary DashPass membership perks to Sapphire®, Freedom®, and Slate® cardmembers and many Chase co-brands cardmembers. The partnership between Chase and DoorDash is even extending into a new co-branded credit card – the DoorDash Rewards Mastercard.

Related Article: Get More Value on Apple Products w/ Chase

Featured photo by Michele Krozser / Burst

Get More Value on Apple Products w/ Chase

by Cory Santos
get-more-value-on-apple-products-w-chase

Last updated on December 19th, 2022

Chase card members can enjoy special savings when making Apple purchases with their eligible credit card. Starting October 15 – November 30, 2022, Chase Freedom, Chase Ink, and Chase Sapphire cardmembers can earn more when redeeming points for Apple® products through the Apple Ultimate Rewards® store. 

Chase Launches Special Savings on Apple Purchases for Cardmembers

Chase is giving some of its cardmembers special, limited-time-only savings. Beginning October 15, select Chase credit card holders, including Chase Freedom, Chase Ink, and Chase Sapphire cardmembers, can earn more when redeeming points for Apple® products through the Apple Ultimate Rewards® store. This special offer runs until November 30, 2022.

Freedom Cards

Chase Freedom family cardmembers enjoy 10% more value with Ultimate Rewards points when shopping and redeeming for Apple products through Ultimate Rewards. This bonus applies to Chase Freedom, Freedom Unlimited, Freedom Flex, and the Freedom Student credit card.

Sapphire Cards

Chase Sapphire cardmembers enjoy different levels of savings depending on their particular credit card. Chase Sapphire Reserve cardmembers enjoy 50% more value for Apple purchases through Ultimate Rewards. Chase Sapphire Preferred points are worth 25% more when redeemed for Apple products through Ultimate Rewards.

The 50% more value also applies to the JPMorgan Reserve Card.

Ink Business Cards

Like the Sapphire family, Ink small business credit cardholders will receive differing additional savings depending on the card product. Ink Business Cash, Ink Cash, and Ink Business Unlimited cardmembers enjoy 10% more value with Apple purchases through Ultimate Rewards during the event, for example. In comparison, Ink Business Preferred and Ink Plus cardmembers will enjoy 25% more value with their points.

About Chase

Chase is one of the most popular credit card issuers in the United States. The bank currently has over 83 million credit cardholders in the United States, second only to Citibank. Chase Ultimate Rewards, the company’s credit card rewards program, are among the most valuable reward points in the credit card loyalty space.

Related Article: Chase Launches Special Savings on Apple Purchases for Cardmembers

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Frontier Airlines World Mastercard® Introduces ‘Pick Your Card’

by Jeannyn Gomez
FRONTIER Airlines World Mastercard® Introduces ‘Pick Your Card’

The Frontier Airlines World Mastercard® has introduced its new ‘Pick Your Card’ program. The program is part of its initiatives to bring awareness to endangered and threatened animal species in North America. Here’s everything you need to know about the next moves for America’s greenest airline.

Frontier Announces ‘Pick Your Card’

The low-fare carrier Frontier Airlines is America’s Greenest Airline. As part of an awareness focus on green initiatives, the FRONTIER Airlines World Mastercard® has introduced the ‘Pick Your Card’ program. The new program is made possible through Frontier’s partnership with Barclays US Consumer Bank, as they introduced five new card design choices for new card members.  

The new card options are made of recycled plastic and feature threatened or endangered animal species. Frontier’s awareness efforts for threatened and endangered animals in North America are not limited to the new credit card designs. Frontier features the threatened and endangered animal images on every Frontier aircraft tail with a name and a special backstory.

New cardholders of the FRONTIER Airlines World Mastercard® can pick any of the following animals to appear on their card:

  • Powder the Polar Bear
  • Verde the Resplendent Quetzal
  • Hugh the Manatee
  • Wellington the Black-Footed Ferret
  • Chinook the Gray Wolf

“Proud to Support Frontier’s Sustainability Efforts”

“We are excited to now feature some of our most beloved aircraft animal tails on the award-winning FRONTIER Airlines World Mastercard,” said Tyri Squyres, Frontier’s vice president of marketing. “We are proud of our plane tails, which are not only adored by our customers but serve an important purpose in highlighting threatened and endangered species. The FRONTIER Airlines World Mastercard, which was named Money.com’s Best Travel Rewards Card for 2022, just got even better!”

“Barclays is proud to support Frontier’s sustainability efforts and jointly develop programs that cardmembers love and continue to build loyalty for the brand,” said Kristyn Forrester, managing director, airline partnerships, Barclays. “As we approach peak travel season, we believe that the new customizable credit cards highlighting threatened and endangered animal species will prove to be a popular choice among cardmembers as they make future travel plans.”

Enjoy More Benefits

The new ‘Pick Your Card’ program launch is paired with a new credit card bonus offer. If approved for a new Frontier Airlines World Mastercard®, cardmembers can earn 50,000 bonus miles after meeting the spend requirements within the first 90 days. The 50,000 bonus miles can be redeemed for up to two round trip award tickets from FRONTIER Airlines World Mastercard®. The credit card earns up to 5X miles on eligible purchases such as flights, dining, and more. Additionally, cardholders can share miles and can also earn flight vouchers. Moreover, cardmembers can take advantage of low intro APR rates on balance transfers and no foreign transaction fees. You can browse more Barclay’s credit cards here.

About Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines is committed to “Low Fares Done Right.” Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, the company operates more than 110 A320 family aircraft and has the largest A320neo family fleet in the U.S. The use of these aircraft, Frontier’s seating configuration, weight-saving tactics, and baggage process have all contributed to Frontier’s continued ability to be the most fuel-efficient of all major U.S. carriers when measured by available seat miles (ASMs) per fuel gallon consumed. Source.

Related Article: Find the Best Airline Rewards Credit Card

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Chase to Launch New DoorDash Rewards Mastercard

by Cory Santos
Chase-DoorDash-DoorDash-Rewards-Mastercard

Last updated on April 6th, 2023

The first-ever DoorDash credit card is coming to Chase. Chase and DoorDash, the local commerce platform, have announced plans for a new food delivery credit card, the DoorDash Rewards Mastercard. Here is everything we know about the upcoming Chase credit card:

Chase and DoorDash Announce New Credit Card Partnership

The DoorDash Rewards Mastercard will reshape how Americans pay for deliveries when ordering out – or at least that’s the hope of JP Morgan Chase. Chase and DoorDash have announced plans to launch a new co-branded credit card that will allow cardmembers to unlock benefits and earn rewards on purchases on the DoorDash platform –anywhere Mastercard is accepted worldwide.

The upcoming DoorDash Rewards Mastercard expands the current relationship between Chase, DoorDash, and Mastercard. Since January 2020, Chase and DoorDash have worked together to offer a range of complimentary DashPass membership perks to Sapphire®, Freedom®, and Slate® cardmembers and many Chase co-brands cardmembers. Mastercard and DoorDash first introduced card benefits together in April of 2021.

“Benefits that Add More Value to Everyday Life”

“Connecting people with the best of their neighborhoods is core to our mission, and we’re excited to unlock even more of that value for customers with this first-of-its-kind credit card,” said Usman Cheema, Senior Director of Global Partnerships at DoorDash in a press release. “We are thrilled to deepen our relationship with Chase and continue building more everyday shoppable moments for consumers on and off the platform while empowering the local communities we serve.”

“Chase and DoorDash have worked together since 2020, and we’re excited to provide exclusive benefits through their first-ever credit card,” added Ed Olebe, President of Chase Co-Brand Cards. “The new card is designed for those who love the convenience and options DoorDash provides and want to earn more where they are spending, whether ordering from the broad range of categories available on DoorDash or spending in-person at a favorite neighborhood store.”

“Mastercard recognizes that today, people are seeking out financial products, technology, and benefits that add more value to their everyday lives,” said Sherri Haymond, executive vice president of Digital Partnerships at Mastercard. “Chase and DoorDash share in this vision, and we’re delighted to extend our relationship to deliver a credit offering that meaningfully connects people to the businesses around them while also providing a one-of-a-kind payments experience.”

There is currently no date for the launch of the DoorDash Rewards Mastercard.

Related Article: Chase Launches Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful Card

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