Traveling is more than just reaching a destination; it’s about enjoying every step of the journey. The Discover it® Miles credit card transforms how you approach travel, combining exceptional rewards with unparalleled flexibility. Designed for those who love to explore, this card offers significant perks, including unlimited rewards and no annual fee.

Whether you’re planning an international trip or simply managing everyday expenses, Discover it® Miles ensures you’re rewarded for your spending. By blending simplicity and robust benefits, this card empowers you to make the most of every dollar spent, both at home and abroad.

Key information about the credit card

How does the annual fee work?

One of the most attractive features of the Discover it® Miles credit card is its no annual fee policy. While many travel credit cards come with yearly charges that can range from $95 to over $500, Discover bucks the trend by eliminating this expense altogether. For budget-conscious consumers, this is a crucial advantage. It allows you to enjoy all the card’s benefits without worrying about offsetting a fixed fee with rewards or savings.

The absence of an annual fee makes this card especially appealing to infrequent travelers or those exploring travel rewards for the first time. You can focus on accumulating and redeeming your Miles without feeling pressured by recurring charges. This feature underscores Discover’s commitment to providing value and accessibility to its cardholders.

How is the credit limit determined?

The credit limit for the Discover it® Miles card is carefully assessed based on several factors, ensuring it aligns with your financial profile. When you apply, Discover evaluates your creditworthiness, considering your credit score, income level, debt-to-income ratio, and credit history. This personalized approach ensures that your credit line reflects your financial capacity and spending patterns.

For conventional credit cards like this one, the issuer assigns a credit limit that balances accessibility and responsibility. Prepaid or secured cards, on the other hand, allow users to set their own limit through their initial deposit. While Discover it® Miles is a traditional credit card, the company’s evaluation process ensures flexibility and fairness, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers.

Advantages of the credit card

• Unlimited 1.5x Miles: Earn 1.5 Miles on every dollar spent, without restrictions or categories, ensuring that all your purchases contribute to your travel rewards.
• Mile-for-Mile Match: At the end of your first year, Discover automatically matches all the Miles you’ve earned, effectively doubling your rewards.
• No expiration on Miles: Your Miles never expire, allowing you to save up for large travel goals or redeem them gradually over time.
• Flexible redemption options: Redeem your Miles as statement credits for travel purchases, cash, or even at checkout with partners like Amazon.com and PayPal.
• No foreign transaction fees: Unlike some cards that charge up to 3% for purchases abroad, the Discover it® Miles card lets you spend internationally without extra costs.
• 99% U.S. acceptance rate: Discover cards are accepted at 99% of U.S. merchants, providing unparalleled convenience.

Standout advantage

The Discover it® Miles card’s Mile-for-Mile Match feature is its most remarkable advantage. At the end of your first year, Discover automatically doubles all the Miles you’ve earned—without requiring additional spending or manual enrollment. This benefit is especially lucrative for those who use the card frequently in their first year. For example, if you earn 50,000 Miles, Discover will match it to give you a total of 100,000 Miles, equivalent to $1,000 in rewards.

Disadvantages

• Limited international acceptance: Discover’s network, while robust in the U.S., may not be as widely accepted in certain international markets.
• Lack of premium travel perks: Unlike some high-end travel cards, it doesn’t offer benefits like airport lounge access, free checked baggage, or trip cancellation insurance.

A standout disadvantage

The most significant drawback of the Discover it® Miles card is its limited global acceptance. While Discover boasts near-universal acceptance in the U.S., the network is not as prevalent in countries where Visa or Mastercard dominate. This limitation can create inconveniences for frequent international travelers, requiring them to carry a secondary card for backup. For those who primarily travel domestically, however, this issue may not be as relevant.

Who can apply for this card?

Applying for the Discover it® Miles card is straightforward, but there are eligibility requirements to keep in mind. Applicants must be at least 18 years old (19 in Alabama and Nebraska) and possess a valid Social Security Number. A stable income is also a key factor, as it demonstrates the ability to repay credit card balances. While Discover doesn’t specify a minimum credit score, applicants with good to excellent credit typically have a higher likelihood of approval.

Unfortunately, the card is not designed for individuals with poor credit or those who are rebuilding their credit history. Applicants must also ensure that their credit reports are free from significant delinquencies or defaults. Discover’s straightforward application process makes it easy for eligible individuals to take advantage of this travel rewards card.

How to apply for the Discover it® Miles Card

For the website

The online application process is quick and user-friendly. Start by visiting Discover’s official website and navigating to the “Travel Credit Card” section. Click on “Apply Now” under the Discover it® Miles card and fill out the required information, such as your name, address, Social Security Number, and income details. Review the terms and conditions before submitting your application. Most applicants receive an instant decision, although some cases may require additional verification.

Through the app

The Discover mobile app offers a seamless way to apply for the card. After downloading the app, log in or create a Discover account. Head to the “Credit Card Products” section, select the Discover it® Miles card, and complete the application form. The app also allows you to check your application status in real time, providing transparency and convenience throughout the process.

At the branch

For those who prefer a personal touch, applying in person at a Discover branch is an excellent option. Bring necessary documents, including a government-issued ID, proof of income, and your Social Security Number. A Discover representative will guide you through the application process, answer any questions, and provide detailed information about the card’s features. While this method may take slightly longer, it offers a personalized experience for those who value face-to-face interactions.