Introducing the Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard, a credit card option that has sparked controversy among Canadian shoppers. Created in partnership with MBNA, this card aims to replace the Chase Amazon Visa card but has faced criticism since its debut.
While it offers a welcome offer of 5% cash back for the first 6 months, the main benefits are reserved for Amazon Prime members, leaving non-Prime customers with reduced cash back rates. With negative customer reviews, shoppers are looking for a credit card that better meets their needs.
The Partnership Between MBNA and Amazon
MBNA partnered with Amazon to create the Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard as a replacement for the Chase Amazon Visa card. This partnership aimed to provide Canadian customers with a credit card tailored to their frequent shopping habits on Amazon.ca and Whole Foods.
The introduction of this card generated mixed reception among customers. While some appreciated the convenience of having a credit card specifically designed for their Amazon purchases, others expressed disappointment with the limited benefits offered, especially for non-Prime members.
The partnership between MBNA and Amazon aimed to cater to the needs of Canadian shoppers, but the customer reception suggests that there is room for improvement in terms of the card’s features and benefits.
Benefits and Features of the Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard
Customers can enjoy a 5% cash back offer for the first 6 months or up to $3,000 spent with the Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard. This welcome offer provides an attractive incentive for new cardholders.
However, when comparing the cash back rates for different spending categories, it becomes clear that the card’s benefits are primarily reserved for Amazon Prime members. Prime members receive 2.5% cash back on purchases from Amazon.ca, Whole Foods, and foreign currency transactions.
Non-Prime customers, on the other hand, receive reduced cash back rates of 1.5% on eligible purchases from Amazon.ca and Whole Foods, and 1% on all other purchases.
This disparity in cash back rates may impact the card’s appeal to non-Prime members who may find other credit cards, such as the Amex Cobalt, more suitable for their needs.
Reduced Benefits for Non-Prime Customers
While non-Prime customers receive reduced cash back rates with the Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard, Prime members enjoy higher cash back rates on eligible purchases. This difference in benefits has a significant impact on non-Prime customers, as they only receive 1.5% cash back on eligible purchases from Amazon.ca and Whole Foods, as well as 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Without an Amazon Prime membership, the card loses its potential and may not be as appealing to non-Prime customers. As alternatives, non-Prime customers may consider other credit cards that offer more generous rewards and benefits, such as the Amex Cobalt.
These alternative options may better suit the needs of non-Prime customers and provide more value in terms of cash back rates and other perks.
Additional Benefits and Limitations of the Amazon Credit Card
The Amazon Credit Card offers additional benefits such as earning $20 gift cards for every 2,000 points accumulated, which can be used on purchases made on Amazon.ca.
Benefits for Prime members:
Prime members receive 2.5% cash back on Amazon.ca, Whole Foods, and foreign currency purchases.
Prime membership is necessary to fully utilize the card’s benefits.
Useful for gifting or getting discounts on purchases.
Drawbacks for Non-Prime members:
Non-Prime customers receive reduced cash back rates.
Cash back reduced to 1.5% on eligible purchases from Amazon.ca and Whole Foods.
The card’s value diminishes without an existing Prime subscription.
While the Amazon Credit Card offers benefits for Prime members, it has drawbacks for non-Prime members. Non-Prime customers receive reduced cash back rates, making the card less appealing. Additionally, cash back rates are lower for purchases made on Amazon.ca and Whole Foods. The card’s value is heavily dependent on having an active Prime subscription.
However, the ability to earn gift cards for every 2,000 points accumulated adds an extra benefit for all cardholders. These gift cards can be used on purchases made on Amazon.ca, providing a useful perk for Canadian residents.
The Importance of an Amazon Prime Membership
To fully utilize the benefits of the Amazon Credit Card, an active Amazon Prime membership is essential. Prime membership unlocks exclusive benefits and features that enhance the value of the card. Without Prime, the cash back rates are significantly reduced, making the card less appealing for non-Prime customers. Here is a table highlighting the benefits of Prime membership:
| Prime Membership Benefits |
|---|
| 2.5% cash back on Amazon.ca, Whole Foods, and foreign currency purchases |
| Access to Prime-exclusive deals and discounts |
| Free two-day shipping on eligible items |
| Streaming of movies, TV shows, and music |
While the Amazon Credit Card offers some advantages, there are alternatives available for Canadian shoppers. One popular alternative is the Amex Cobalt card, which offers a generous welcome bonus and rewards program. Customers who prioritize a broader range of benefits and flexibility may find other credit cards more suitable for their needs. It is important to carefully consider the benefits and limitations of the Amazon Credit Card and explore other options before making a decision.
Customer Feedback on the Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard
Customers have expressed mixed reactions to the Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard, citing limitations and a lack of benefits for non-Prime members. Some customers have found the card to be useful, while others have been disappointed by its restricted benefits.
Here are some key points to consider:
Limited benefits for non-Prime members: Customers without an Amazon Prime membership receive reduced cash back rates, making the card less appealing for those who do not have a subscription.
Alternative options: Many customers have found other credit cards, such as the Amex Cobalt, to be more suitable for their needs. These alternative options offer more generous rewards and benefits that cater to a wider range of shoppers.
Customer satisfaction: The Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard has received a low rating of 1.9/5 on Amazon’s website. Negative customer reviews highlight the card’s limitations and the lack of benefits for non-Prime members.
Overall, while the Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard may be beneficial for avid Amazon shoppers with a Prime membership, its limited usefulness and lack of benefits for non-Prime members have left many customers seeking alternative credit card options.
Comparing the Amazon Credit Card to Other Options
Comparing the Amazon Credit Card to other options, it is important to consider the rewards and benefits offered by alternative credit cards.
When evaluating customer satisfaction, it becomes clear that the Amazon Credit Card falls short in comparison to other cards in the market. Many customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the limited benefits for non-Prime members.
The reduced cash back rates for non-Prime customers on purchases from Amazon.ca and Whole Foods, as well as the 1% cash back on all other purchases, have left customers wanting more. Negative customer reviews highlight these limitations and suggest that other credit cards, such as the Amex Cobalt, may be more suitable.
It is evident that the Amazon Credit Card’s restricted usefulness restricts its appeal, and customers eagerly await a credit card that better suits their needs.
The Value of Gift Cards and Their Potential Limitations
Earning gift cards through the Amazon Credit Card is a valuable feature for Canadian residents. It provides them with the opportunity to receive $20 gift cards for every 2,000 points accumulated. These gift cards can be used on Amazon.ca, allowing shoppers to either gift them to others or use them to get discounts on their own purchases.
This feature is particularly beneficial for Canadian residents who frequently shop on Amazon.ca, as it provides them with additional savings. However, there are potential limitations to using gift cards for purchases. For example, it is important for shoppers to be cautious when using gift cards on purchases that may void warranties.
Additionally, the value of gift cards is dependent on having an existing Amazon Prime subscription, which comes with a cost of $119 per year.
Overall, while earning gift cards through the Amazon Credit Card is advantageous for Canadian shoppers, it is important for them to consider these potential limitations.
The Future of Credit Cards for Canadian Shoppers
The future of credit cards for Canadian shoppers is uncertain due to changing consumer preferences and evolving technologies. With the impact of digital wallets and the rise of contactless payment, traditional credit cards may face challenges in remaining relevant.
Digital wallets, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, offer convenience and security, allowing consumers to make purchases with just a tap of their smartphones. Contactless payment methods, like NFC-enabled cards and wearables, also provide a seamless and fast checkout experience.
These alternatives are gaining popularity among consumers who value speed, ease, and enhanced security in their payment transactions. As a result, credit card issuers may need to adapt and incorporate these technologies into their offerings to meet the changing demands of Canadian shoppers.