How to Maximize Credit Card Rewards on Grocery Shopping in Canada
Hello, My dear friend my name is Prince. As a Canadian Citizen Credit card rewards programs offer a fantastic opportunity for me and you to save money and earn benefits on everyday purchases. Also, grocery shopping stands out as an essential expense where strategic use of credit cards can help you maximize rewards, cashback, or points. In this article, I will tell you a secret hack on how I get maximum rewards on shopping for groceries using credit cards in Canada. Here, I will tell how you can optimize credit card rewards on grocery shopping—both online and offline—while using the best credit card options.
Understanding Credit Card Reward Types
Before going on strategies, it is very essential to understand the types of rewards credit cards typically offer in Canada in 2025:
- Cashback: A percentage of your spending returned as cash or a statement credit.
- Points: Earned for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, or merchandise in Canada.
- Miles: Accumulate travel miles that can be used for flights, accommodations, and more uses.
- Discounts or Rebates: Immediate savings or rebates on purchases at partnered stores in Canada.
Top Credit Cards for Grocery Shopping in Canada
Choosing the right credit card is very important to maximize rewards. Below are some of the top-rated credit cards in Canada for grocery purchases:
| Credit Card | Rewards | Annual Fee | Key Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite | 4% cash back on groceries | $120 | Insurance coverage, 10% intro cashback offer |
| Tangerine Money-Back Card | 2% cashback in chosen categories (groceries optional) | None | No annual fee, flexible category selection |
| Scotiabank Gold AMEX | 6 points per $1 on groceries and dining | $120 | No foreign transaction fees, travel insurance |
| PC Financial World Elite Mastercard | Up to 30 points per $1 on groceries at Loblaw stores | None | Free PC Optimum points for loyalty redemption |
| BMO CashBack Mastercard | 3% cash back on groceries (up to $500/month) | None | No annual fee, intro 5% cashback offer |
Maximizing Credit Card Rewards for Grocery Shopping in Canada
1. Choose the Right Credit Card for Groceries
- Check your Credit cards offering higher cashback percentages or rewards on grocery spending.
- Prioritize cards with multipliers for grocery purchases, such as 4x points or 6% cashback.
2. Leverage Bonus Offers and Promotions
- Many credit cards offer welcome bonus points or cashback for hitting a minimum spend within the first 90 days.
- For example, spend $1,000 in three months to earn up to 50,000 bonus points on some premium cards.
3. Shop at Partnered Retailers
- Check if your credit card provides extra points for shopping at specific grocery stores, such as Loblaw, Sobeys, or Metro.
- Choose loyalty cards like PC Optimum and combine them with your credit card rewards.
4. Maximize Online Grocery Rewards
- Use online platforms like Instacart or Walmart.ca, where specific credit cards offer exclusive promotions or bonus points.
- Combine credit card rewards with online cashback portals like Rakuten for additional savings.
5. Utilize Credit Card Portals
- Some credit card providers have their own shopping portals offering additional rewards for purchases made through their platforms.
- Example: Scotiabank’s Scene+ allows for direct redemption of grocery purchases.
6. Avoid Carrying a Balance
- Pay off your credit card balance monthly to avoid interest charges, which can negate the value of any rewards earned.
7. Supplement with Loyalty Programs
- Stack your rewards by using loyalty programs like Air Miles, PC Optimum, or Scene+ at grocery stores.
- Some stores offer double rewards for using their loyalty card and a partnered credit card.
Tips for Offline Grocery Shopping
a) Shop at Grocery Stores with High Multipliers
- For example, PC Financial credit cards offer optimal rewards at Loblaws-affiliated stores.
b) Watch for Promotions and Flash Offers
- Physical stores often have promotions like double PC Optimum points days or bonus offers for specific purchases.
c) Use Digital Wallets for Additional Cashback
- Cards like Scotiabank Gold AMEX allow for mobile payment bonuses, enhancing your rewards in Canada.
Tips for Online Grocery Shopping
a) Shop on Credit Card Partner Platforms
- Many cards partner with grocery delivery services. Always check your credit card’s website for updates.
b) Use Coupon Codes and Apps
- Combine credit card points with discount codes, apps, or cashback services like Rakuten and Checkout 51 for extra savings.
c) Plan Ahead with Bulk Purchases
- Stock up on non-perishable items during grocery delivery promotions to maximize one-time rewards.
The Importance of Categories and Monthly Caps
Most Canadian credit cards have monthly caps on grocery spending to earn elevated rewards. Plan your purchases around these caps to maximize benefits. For Example:
- The BMO CashBack Mastercard offers 3% cashback on groceries, capped at $500 per month. Any spending beyond this amount earns the standard rate of 0.5%.
Comparing Rewards: A Visual Breakdown
Below is a chart comparing annual grocery rewards based on spending $800 monthly at eligible stores in Canada:
| Credit Card | Annual Grocery Spend ($800/month) | Annual Rewards |
|---|---|---|
| Scotiabank Gold AMEX | $9,600 | 57,600 points (worth approx. $576) |
| PC Financial World Elite | $9,600 | 288,000 points (worth $288 in value) |
| CIBC Dividend Visa Infinite | $9,600 | $384 cashback |
| Tangerine Money-Back | $9,600 | $192 cashback |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overspending for Rewards: Spending more than necessary to chase rewards can lead to financial strain.
- Ignoring Annual Fees: Ensure the rewards outweigh the cost of annual fees.
- Missing Payment Deadlines: Late payments incur fees and negate the value of rewards.
Final Thoughts
As per my experience of grocery shopping in Canada, using credit cards. I have made huge amounts of cashback rewards. Maximizing credit card rewards on grocery shopping in Canada, you have requires a strategic approach. Start by selecting the right credit card tailored to your shopping habits, leveraging loyalty programs, and using online platforms to boost rewards. Stay disciplined by paying off your balance monthly to avoid interest charges and enjoy the full benefit of your rewards in Canada in 2025.
With the tips and strategies here I will explain you. I think I will be able to solve your problem. After reading this article Hope you have chosen the right credit cards for grocery shopping in Canada and made a huge reward the future. Share this article with your loved ones.
Also Read: What Credit Cards Offer the Best Deals on High-End Cosmetics in Canada?
FAQ: How to Maximize Credit Card Rewards on Grocery Shopping in Canada
Which credit card gives the best rewards for grocery shopping in Canada in 2025?
The Scotiabank Gold AMEX is one of the best options, offering 6 points per $1 on groceries. Other great choices include the CIBC Dividend Visa Infinite and PC Financial World Elite Mastercard.
Can I earn rewards on online grocery shopping in Canada in 2025?
Yes, many credit cards offer rewards for online grocery purchases. Check if your card has partnerships with online platforms like Walmart.ca or Instacart for additional benefits.
How do I maximize grocery rewards if I shop at different stores in Canada?
Choose a credit card with broad eligibility for grocery rewards, such as the Scotiabank Gold AMEX. Combine it with store-specific loyalty programs to maximize savings.
Are there credit cards without annual fees for grocery rewards?
Yes, cards like the Tangerine Money-Back Card and BMO CashBack Mastercard offer grocery rewards without annual fees.
Can I stack rewards with loyalty programs like PC Optimum?
Absolutely. Using a credit card like the PC Financial World Elite Mastercard at Loblaw-affiliated stores allows you to earn PC Optimum points and credit card rewards simultaneously.
