In today’s digital age, grocery shopping has been transformed by services like Instacart, which brings groceries to your doorstep. For frequent Instacart users, having a credit card that maximizes savings and rewards for these purchases can be a game-changer. The right card can bring significant value with cashback or points and offer free delivery, extended memberships, or bonus rewards on Instacart spending. Let’s explore the credit cards that offer exclusive Instacart benefits and which ones may be the best for you.
What Are Instacart Benefits, and Why Do They Matter?
Instacart has risen as a preferred option for convenient grocery shopping. For regular users, the costs of delivery and fees can add up, making Instacart’s benefits on credit cards highly attractive. Such benefits can include:
- Free Delivery on eligible orders.
- Discounted Memberships to Instacart+, reducing monthly or yearly costs.
- Bonus Rewards for grocery spending on Instacart, including cashback or points.
- Promotional Offers that provide savings through statement credits.
These benefits can significantly impact a cardholder’s savings and elevate their grocery shopping experience.
Top Credit Cards Offering Instacart Benefits
Let’s delve into some of the best credit cards for Instacart users and compare their Instacart benefits to help you make an informed decision.
A. American Express® Gold Card
The American Express® Gold Card is a popular choice among foodies, with rewards that extend to Instacart.
Instacart Benefits:
- 4x Membership Rewards Points on purchases made at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 annually).
- Additional Cashback Offers: American Express often partners with Instacart for exclusive cashback or statement credit promotions.
Why It’s Great for Instacart Users: This card is designed for users who make frequent grocery purchases, whether in-store or online. The high points multiplier can accumulate quickly, providing value through rewards for frequent Instacart shoppers.
B. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Known for its versatile points and travel rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card also extends valuable Instacart benefits.
Instacart Benefits:
- Up to 5x Points on Instacart purchases during promotional periods.
- 3x Points on dining and 2x on all other travel, which can sometimes apply to Instacart purchases as a delivery service.
Why It’s Great for Instacart Users: Chase’s frequent promotions with Instacart allow cardholders to earn bonus points for groceries, which can be used for travel, cash back, or other rewards. This card provides flexibility and strong overall value, particularly for users who travel often but also use Instacart for everyday needs.
C. Capital One® SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One® SavorOne card is excellent for those seeking cash back on entertainment, dining, and grocery delivery services like Instacart.
Instacart Benefits:
- 3% Cash Back on dining and grocery store purchases, including Instacart.
- Frequent Partner Promotions with Instacart that can include free deliveries or discounted memberships.
Why It’s Great for Instacart Users: Capital One offers reliable cash-back earnings on Instacart orders, making this card ideal for users who value simplicity and consistency in their rewards.
D. Citi® Double Cash Card
The Citi® Double Cash Card is a straightforward option with impressive cashback potential on all purchases, including Instacart orders.
Instacart Benefits:
- 2% Cash Back on all purchases (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay off the balance).
Why It’s Great for Instacart Users: With its universal cashback rate, the Citi® Double Cash Card ensures every Instacart order counts towards rewards, even if it doesn’t offer specific Instacart perks. This card is an excellent choice for users who want simple cash back without the complexity of reward categories.
Comparing Instacart Benefits Across Cards
Let’s break down some key Instacart benefits of these cards for easier comparison:
| Card | Instacart Benefit | Membership Perks | Best for |
| American Express® Gold Card | 4x Points at U.S. supermarkets | Occasional offers | High grocery spenders |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred® | Up to 5x Points on Instacart (promo-based) | Yes | Travelers and dining enthusiasts |
| Capital One® SavorOne | 3% Cash Back on groceries and dining | Frequent offers | Cashback lovers |
| Citi® Double Cash Card | 2% Cash Back on all purchases | No | Simple rewards earners |
Additional Perks to Look for When Choosing a Card for Instacart
While the specific Instacart benefits are appealing, consider these other factors when deciding on the best card for your lifestyle:
- Annual Fees: Some cards with top Instacart benefits may come with higher fees. Weigh the benefits you receive with Instacart against the card’s cost.
- Reward Redemption Options: If you prefer points that can be redeemed for travel, cash back, or even statement credits, look at each card’s flexibility.
- Introductory Offers: Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred often provide significant signup bonuses which can offset initial costs.
- Other Benefits: Look for added perks like extended warranties, travel insurance, and dining credits that can add extra value.
Choosing the Right Card for Your Needs
So, which card is right for you? Here are some recommendations:
- For Grocery Enthusiasts: The American Express® Gold Card, with its high points earning potential at supermarkets, is ideal for those who spend heavily on groceries.
- For Travelers: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card stands out for those who want travel rewards alongside Instacart benefits.
- For Cashback Lovers: The Capital One® SavorOne is perfect for earning cash back without hassle, especially with its added benefits for dining and grocery spending.
- For Simple Earners: The Citi® Double Cash Card remains a solid choice for anyone who values straightforward cashback on every Instacart order.
Maximizing Your Instacart Benefits
Once you’ve chosen a card, you can maximize your Instacart benefits with a few tips:
- Check for Promotions: Many credit card companies partner with Instacart for limited-time offers. Take advantage of these to get free deliveries or statement credits.
- Time Your Purchases: Some cards have specific grocery store multipliers that refresh each month or quarter. Plan your Instacart orders during these peak earning periods.
- Combine with Instacart+ Membership: If your card offers a discounted or free membership to Instacart+, utilize it to enjoy free deliveries on eligible orders.
Cashback at Supermarts
Cashback offers at supermarkets are a smart way to save on everyday essentials. Many credit cards and digital wallets now provide cashback benefits specifically for grocery purchases, allowing shoppers to earn a percentage back on their spending. These rewards typically range from 1% to 5%, depending on the card or app. To maximize benefits, it’s essential to use a card or payment method with a high cashback rate on groceries, ideally one that caps rewards at a reasonable spending limit. Some cards also offer higher cashback during promotional periods, especially around holidays. Cashback can be redeemed as a statement credit, transferred to a bank account, or used for other purchases. By strategically using these cashback options, shoppers can reduce their grocery bills over time, making their weekly supermarket trips more budget-friendly.
Conclusion
With the growing popularity of Instacart, it’s no surprise that credit card companies are eager to offer unique benefits tailored to grocery delivery services. Each card discussed brings unique advantages, from flexible travel points to robust cashback opportunities. Whether you’re an occasional user or a dedicated Instacart shopper, there’s a card that can fit your lifestyle and enhance your grocery shopping experience. By choosing the right card, you can make every Instacart order work harder for you, adding value, convenience, and rewards to your everyday purchases.
In conclusion, the best credit card for Instacart ultimately depends on your shopping habits, budget, and preferred type of reward. Explore these options carefully, and you’ll soon find that your grocery bills feel a little lighter—and your rewards a little richer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some credit cards occasionally offer free or discounted Instacart+ memberships through special promotions. Check with your card issuer to see if these offers are available.
The Capital One® SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is a strong choice for cashback lovers, offering 3% cashback on dining and groceries, including Instacart orders.
Yes, Chase Sapphire Preferred® often includes bonus points for Instacart purchases during promotional periods, which can go up to 5x points.
Yes, some cards, like the American Express® Gold Card, have annual fees. Be sure to compare fees to ensure the benefits outweigh the cost for your spending habits.
Contact your credit card issuer or check their website to see if Instacart benefits are offered. Many issuers also list promotional details in the rewards or offers section of your online account.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date content, credit card terms, conditions, and offers are subject to change at the discretion of the card issuers. Readers are encouraged to thoroughly review and verify all terms before applying for any credit card.