The Discovery Credit Card is a versatile financial tool offered by Discovery Bank, known for its personalised interest rates and a variety of rewards based on the cardholder’s engagement in Vitality programmes and Discovery products. This product aims to enhance its customers’ banking experience by combining exclusive offers, unrivaled servicing, and competitive rates.
In addition to discounts on flights, accommodations, and car rentals, the Discovery Credit Card also provides cashback on select purchases at participating retailers such as Game, Makro, Builders, and DionWired. Powered by MasterCard, the card is accepted both locally and internationally, granting its users the flexibility and convenience they need for their everyday transactions and travels.
Managing the Discovery Credit Card is made easy through their banking app, which allows clients to change their PIN, pause or cancel the card, add or replace cards, and even change card colours. With a well-rounded set of features and benefits, the Discovery Credit Card serves as a valuable asset for eligible individuals with a monthly income of at least R3,000 and at least 18 years of age.
Discovery Credit Card Overview
Card Features
The Discovery Credit Card, issued by Discovery Bank, is a Visa credit card tailored for individuals looking for rewards and benefits that suit their lifestyles. This digital bank utilises a shared-value banking model, aiming to incentivise responsible financial management amongst its customers. Cardholders can enjoy cashback, discounts, and exclusive access to travel and lifestyle rewards.
Certain tiers of the card are available based on income brackets. For example, the Discovery Gold Credit Card caters to those earning between R100,000 and R350,000.00 per year. With this card, you have the option to boost your rewards by subscribing to the Vitality Money, a programme that comes with a small monthly fee of R25.00.
Credit Facility
The monthly credit facility fee for the Discovery Credit Card is R35.00. Credit limits and interest rates vary depending on the cardholder’s creditworthiness and risk profile. Discovery Bank carefully assesses each applicant to ensure they can manage the credit responsibly.
Banking App
Discovery Bank offers a user-friendly banking app, which is designed for easy access to your account and card information. By logging into the app, cardholders can view their debit or credit card details, manage transactions, and monitor their spending habits.
To use the app, follow these steps:
- Log in to the banking app.
- Select “Cards” at the bottom of the screen.
- Scroll left until you see the card you want to view.
- Tap on the top-right corner and select “Show card details.”
In addition to card management, the Discovery Bank app provides access to the full suite of Discovery products, enabling you to manage your transaction account, credit card, and other financial services with ease.
Rewards and Benefits
Health and Wellness Rewards
Discovery credit cardholders can benefit from the integration of the credit card with Discovery’s Vitality programmes. These programmes focus on promoting healthy living, allowing cardholders to earn Discovery Miles and other rewards by engaging in various health and wellness activities. Some of these activities include participating in Vitality Active Rewards, purchasing HealthyFood and HealthyCare items, and even earning rewards on fuel purchases. By promoting healthier choices, Discovery credit card users can experience rewarding incentives and an improvement in overall wellbeing.
Travel Rewards
For those who love to travel, the Discovery credit card offers various travel rewards. Cardholders can earn Discovery Miles on their everyday spending, which can be converted to Voyager Miles or Avios, making it easier to earn lucrative rewards. These miles can then be used towards travel-related expenses such as flights, accommodation, and even Uber rides. Users can enjoy discounts ranging from 10% to 75% off on both local and international flights under the partnership between Discovery and their travel partners. Additionally, cardholders gain access to airport lounges, providing a touch of luxury to their travel experience.
Everyday Spend Rewards
The Discovery credit card encourages users to make the most of their everyday spending by offering cashback rewards and exclusive deals. When making purchases with their card, users can earn Discovery Miles, which can be redeemed in the Vitality Mall for various items and experiences. Furthermore, Discovery has partnered with well-known retailers, offering users access to exclusive deals and promotions. From shopping deals to discounts on event tickets through Big Concerts, the Discovery credit card ensures that users are rewarded for their daily spending habits.
Interest Rates and Fees
Interest Rate Structure
The Discovery Credit Card offers personalised interest rates to cater to the varying needs of its customers. This dynamic interest rate structure encourages customers to maintain a healthy financial profile by rewarding them with better interest rates based on their creditworthiness. The borrowing rate on the Discovery Credit Card is generally competitive and tailored to the individual, though the card does offer interest-free periods for selected transactions, lasting up to 55 days.
Fee Schedule
The fee structure for the Discovery Credit Card includes a mix of pay-as-you-transact and monthly fees. The total monthly account fee comprises a basic account fee of R100 and a R30 charge for additional services provided.
Other fees associated with the Discovery Credit Card include:
- Additional credit card accounts: R45
- Discovery Motor Card: R45
- Initiation fees: R150 for credit limits less than R2,000, and R199 for higher limits
Transaction fees for different types of transactions are as follows:
- Cash withdrawals (local ATM): R5 + 2.50% of the withdrawn amount
- International transaction fees: determined by the payment network (e.g., Visa)
Please note that these fees and interest rates may be subject to change. Always check the latest information provided by the credit card issuer.
Managing Your Account
Using the Discovery Bank App
The Discovery Bank App is the primary tool for managing your Discovery credit card. This easy-to-use app allows you to manage your accounts and perform various banking tasks. With the app, you can add debit orders, view account details, and transfer funds between accounts. Additionally, you can track and improve your dynamic lifestyle rewards, view your Dynamic Interest Rates, and manage your Discovery Miles.
Live Assist is available within the app, offering customer support and assistance when needed, making it even more convenient to handle your banking needs.
Credit Limit Management
One of the essential aspects of credit card management is understanding your credit limit and ensuring responsible usage. To help you stay in control, the Discovery Bank App allows you to view your current credit limit and request a credit limit increase if necessary. Regularly monitoring your credit limit and spending habits can help maintain healthy finances and improve your credit score.
Secure Transactions
Safety is a top priority when it comes to managing your Discovery credit card. The bank utilises Chip and PIN technology for secure transactions and protection against fraud. The app allows you to manage your card’s PIN and spending limits so that you’re always in control.
Furthermore, Discovery Bank supports Visa’s security measures such as Verified by Visa and Visa Checkout, providing an extra layer of protection for your online purchases. As a cardholder, you can feel confident and secure in using your Discovery credit card for your daily transactions.
Alongside these security features, the Discovery Bank App offers a virtual card option, giving you an additional secure payment option without needing to use your physical card. This feature is particularly useful for online transactions or situations where you’d prefer not to use your primary card details.
Shopping and Lifestyle Perks
Partnership Discounts
With Discovery Credit Card, users have the advantage of partnership discounts with a variety of popular retail outlets. These include well-known stores such as Pick n Pay, Woolworths, Clicks and Dis-Chem. The card’s reward programme enables users to earn cash back, in the form of Discovery Miles, on groceries, fuel, as well as other everyday purchases from these partners.
Healthy Lifestyle Purchases
A unique offering of the Discovery Credit Card is its focus on promoting healthy living. Cardholders can earn up to 40% back on healthy groceries at Pick n Pay and Woolworths through the HealthyFood benefit. Furthermore, users can obtain up to 60% back on fuel purchases at BP and select Shell service stations, and up to 20% back on Uber rides. When shopping for wellness products at partnered retailers, earning Discovery Miles is easy and rewarding.
Digital Wallet Compatibility
The Discovery Credit Card prides itself on compatibility with numerous digital wallet platforms. This facilitates seamless and secure transactions for customers. The card is compatible with the following digital wallets:
- Apple Pay
- Samsung Pay
- Garmin Pay
- Fitbit Pay
The integration with these digital wallets allows cardholders to enjoy the convenience of making contactless payments both in-store and online with participating retail partners, making the shopping experience all the more enjoyable.
Payment Options and Flexibility
Flexible Repayment
Discovery credit card offers various options to manage your credit card balance every month, providing you with an increased level of flexibility. Cardholders can choose between paying a fixed percentage or paying a fixed amount of their outstanding balances. By selecting the most suitable repayment option, cardholders can better manage their spend and interest rates on select transactions.
Furthermore, Discover also offers Pay Date Flexibility to adjust the date your payment is due, accommodating changes in your paycheck date or budgeting needs. With this feature, you can create a custom monthly payment schedule to reach your financial goals and effectively track your payments.
Automatic Debit Orders
Setting up automatic debit orders for your Discovery credit card has been made user-friendly with the bank’s app. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Open the app and scroll through your accounts.
- Tap on your Discovery credit card account.
- Follow the instructions to set up or edit an existing debit order.
By making use of automatic debit orders, you can streamline your payments and ensure that your transactions are processed each month without fail, giving you peace of mind and better management of your transaction account. Discovery Bank’s debit orders support a variety of payment methods, including tap-and-go payments with your Discovery Bank card and digital payments using Apple Pay, Fitbit Pay, Garmin Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay for added convenience.
Travel Services and Features
Discovery Bank offers a range of travel services and features to their credit card customers, focusing on enhancing their travel experience and providing travel rewards.
Comprehensive Insurance
When booking international flights using a Discovery Bank credit card or debit card, customers are provided with free international travel insurance. This added level of protection ensures peace of mind for travellers, knowing that they are covered in case of unforeseen events during their trip.
Travel Booking Conveniences
Discovery Bank clients can access amazing travel rewards through the Vitality Travel platform. The platform allows customers to easily compare travel prices, browse special offers, and book flights, accommodation, and car hire.
- Flights: Cardholders receive discounts ranging from 10% up to a generous 75% off both international and local flights, making air travel more affordable.
- Accommodation and car hire: Credit card users can also take advantage of discounts between 10% and 25% on accommodation bookings and car rental services.
Additionally, the partnership with SAA’s airport lounges grants access to The Lounge, an exclusive pre-flight experience, and Priority Fast Track, which allows customers to skip airport queues and save time.
Using a Discovery Bank credit card for relevant purchases also enables clients to earn Discovery Miles, which can be used to pay for travel bookings directly through the Vitality Travel platform. The flexibility of this rewards system ensures a seamless and accommodating travel experience for cardholders.
By offering these travel services and features, Discovery Bank credit card customers can enjoy enhanced and personalised experiences while travelling, be it for work or leisure.
Security and Safety Measures
Card Protection
Discovery credit cards prioritize the security and safety of their customers’ transactions, offering an array of protective measures. With a chip and pin technology, every transaction made using a Discovery credit card is more secure than swiping. This technology verifies the cardholder’s identity using a personal identification number (PIN), minimizing the risk of fraud.
The credit card security measures in place ensure the safety of your credit facility, protecting your credit score. Maintaining a good credit score is essential for financial well-being, so rest assured that Discovery card’s security enhancements work in your favour.
Discovery Bank’s advanced security implementation includes industry-leading online protection programs such as Verified by Visa, safeguarding your online purchases. Enhanced data storage and monitoring fraud trends keep you informed of potential scams and protect your account.
To further ensure the safety of your transactions, contactless payments with the tap-and-go functionality on your Discovery card are available. The tap-enabled cards can be used at point-of-sale terminals that display the contactless payment symbol. For extra financial safety, these tap-and-go purchases may have a capped amount at specific payment points.
In conclusion, the security and safety measures provided by Discovery credit card include:
- Chip and pin technology
- Verified by Visa for online purchases
- Advanced data storage and protection
- Contactless payment with tap-and-go functionality
These protective measures help safeguard your credit facility and maintain your good credit score while also delivering a smooth and secure transaction experience.
Empowering Financial Control
Vitality Money Management
Discovery Credit Card offers a unique programme called Vitality Money, empowering cardholders to better manage their finances. This programme evaluates customers’ personal financial knowledge, behaviours, and habits, allowing them to gain valuable insights and make informed decisions on credit limits and spending.
Through Vitality Money, users can achieve a higher financial wellness score, which leads to an increase in credit limits and improved interest rates in different accounts:
- Up to 2% interest on positive balances in everyday accounts.
- Up to 6.75% interest on demand savings accounts.
Moreover, cardholders can automatically enrol in the Discovery Vitality Money programme, which offers an opportunity to save up to 75% on selected purchases by consistently demonstrating responsible financial behaviour.
Tools and Assistance
Discovery Credit Card provides a range of tools and assistance to promote transparency and easy understanding of their financial situation. With the help of the Discovery Bank app, users can easily manage their accounts, credit limits, and transactions in a secure and user-friendly environment.
To enhance financial comprehension and control, a customised financial analysis is provided, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. This enables cardholders to become more financially responsible and make better financial decisions.
For those seeking professional advice, a Financial Adviser is available to provide personalised guidance based on the individual’s unique financial requirements. In line with their commitment to privacy and security, Discovery ensures that all personal information is kept confidential and securely stored.
By offering these comprehensive tools and assistance, Discovery Credit Card empowers individuals to take charge of their financial future, promoting responsible money management and a healthy financial lifestyle.
Additional Card Services
Concierge Services
Discovery credit cards offer Live Assist concierge services to cardholders for added convenience and support. Live Assist provides personalised assistance to help with various tasks such as making reservations, planning travel, and finding holiday events. Cardholders can access this service 24/7, ensuring they receive support whenever needed.
Exclusive Access
Airport Lounges
One key benefit of Discovery credit cards is the access to select airport lounges around the world. Cardholders can enjoy a more comfortable and stress-free travel experience by using these exclusive lounges. They offer amenities like complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and a quiet place to relax or work before a flight.
Holiday Experiences
In addition to concierge services and airport lounge access, Discovery credit card members can enjoy exclusive access to various holiday experiences. These experiences range from luxury accommodations to curated adventure packages. These exclusive offers provide cardholders with unique opportunities to create memorable moments during their holidays.
Discovery credit card’s additional services strive to elevate the cardholders’ experiences. With Live Assist, airport lounge access, and exclusive holiday experiences, users can expect a well-rounded service catering to their lifestyle needs.
Application and Eligibility
When applying for a Discovery Bank credit card, there are certain eligibility criteria and documentation requirements to consider. This section provides an overview of the application process and eligibility criteria to help potential cardholders make an informed decision.
Required Documents and Information
To apply for a Discovery Bank credit card, applicants must provide the following documents and information:
- Proof of identity, such as a valid South African ID or passport
- Proof of residence, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
- Proof of income, such as payslips or bank statements
- Banking details
Additionally, applicants must meet certain criteria in order to qualify for a Discovery Bank credit card.
Assessing Creditworthiness
Discovery Bank evaluates applicants based on their creditworthiness. Factors considered include:
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Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
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Citizenship: Applicants must be South African residents.
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Credit Score: A good credit score is required in order to be eligible for a Discovery Bank credit card. It is advisable to check one’s credit report before applying, as any errors in the report can be rectified, potentially improving the credit score.
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Financial Stability: Discovery Bank assesses applicants’ financial stability to ensure they can manage their credit card payments. This may involve reviewing their income, debt obligations, and overall financial health.
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Previous Banking History: A positive banking history with regular transaction patterns and responsible usage of other financial products is typically viewed favourably.
In conclusion, it is important for potential cardholders to carefully review the eligibility criteria and documentation requirements when applying for a Discovery Bank credit card. Consulting a financial adviser for personalized advice can also be helpful in making an informed decision.
Customer Support and Resources
Personal Assistance
Discovery Bank offers dedicated customer support to assist with various credit card-related inquiries, ensuring that clients receive timely and efficient help. For immediate assistance, clients can reach out to the 24/7 support line at +27 11 324 4444. In case of a lost or stolen card, they should promptly contact 0800 07 96 97 to report the incident. Additionally, to discuss your credit facility or consult with a financial adviser, the National Credit Regulator can be reached at 011 554 2700 or 0860 627 627.
Online Support
Beyond personal assistance, Discovery Bank provides an array of online resources to help its clients access and manage their accounts with ease. The Discovery Bank App allows users to effortlessly change their card PIN or pause a card, as well as request additional or replacement cards.
Users can find detailed information about card management on the Your Discovery Bank cards page, while frequently asked questions can be directed to the provided email: [email protected] For clients residing outside of South Africa, the support line for English and Spanish speakers can be reached at 1-224-888-7777.
Moreover, Discovery Bank has committed itself to providing support for those with hearing or speech impairments through the Relay Service. To access this support, simply dial 711.
By offering various channels for personal assistance and comprehensive online resources, Discovery Bank ensures its credit card clients are well-equipped to receive support whenever necessary.
Terms and Conditions
Charges and Fees
The Discovery Credit Card comes with several charges and fees that cardholders need to be aware of. There is an annual linkage fee of R435.79 for cardholders who wish to earn Discovery Miles, the rewards points offered by Discovery Bank. Interest rates vary, but the card offers up to 55 days of interest-free purchases on select credit card transactions for members using the Gold Credit Account. A currency conversion fee of 3% applies to transactions made in other currencies.
Monthly fees and other charges may apply, such as a R2.75 fee per contact payment and a cash deposit fee at Pick n Pay and Boxer stores, which is R19.95 per R5,000. The card also offers free inter-account transfers and prepaid products and services purchases. It is important for cardholders to familiarise themselves with these charges and fees when using the card.
Rate Adjustments
Interest rates for the Discovery Credit Card may be subject to change. Discovery Bank may adjust the interest rate based on factors such as the cardholder’s credit limit, their repayment history, and any changes to the prime lending rate. Cardholders should keep an eye on communications from the bank for updates on rate adjustments and stay informed about any changes.
Rewards Scheme Rules
The Discovery Credit Card’s rewards programme centres around Discovery Miles earned on card transactions. To participate in the programme, cardholders must activate the benefit and pay the annual linkage fee. These miles can be earned only by Discovery Card holders. Once earned, Discovery Miles may be redeemed for various purposes, such as shopping, travel, or dining experiences.
The rewards scheme rules dictate the amount of Discovery Miles earned based on the usage of the card and adherence to the terms. Cardholders should be aware of and comply with these rules in order to make the most of their Discovery Credit Card and the rewards that come with it.