PayPal Debit Cash Back Rewards

How your 5% monthly cash back categories work

To help you get the most out of your PayPal Debit 5% monthly cash back rewards, here's how the cash back categories work:

  • Merchants that accept Visa or Mastercard debit cards are assigned a merchant category code based on the primary type of goods or services they provide. This code is not determined by PayPal. Rather, it is assigned by the merchant or their payment processor in accordance with Visa/Mastercard guidelines.
  • We use these merchant category codes to group businesses into cash back categories. This allows us to offer cash back rewards based on where and how you spend.
  • In some cases, a merchant may appear to fit into one category but is classified under another based on how their business is registered. For example, purchasing apparel at a warehouse club. When this occurs, apparel purchases made at the warehouse club may only qualify as a grocery purchase.

Pick a category to learn more

We're always working on adding new categories. Please note categories may be subject to change.
RestaurantsApparelGroceriesFuelRideshare & public transit

This category includes dine-in restaurants, fast food restaurants, bakeries, bars, and cocktail lounges. Food and drink purchases made in places such as theme parks, event venues, stadiums, arenas, hotels, grocery and department stores will likely not be included in this category. Purchases made using food delivery and takeout apps may also qualify.

Merchants in this category primarily sell apparel. Purchases made at discount stores, department stores, sporting good stores, and shoe stores may qualify.

Merchants in this category include grocery stores, supermarkets, and wholesale clubs. Purchases made at cheese shops, ice cream shops, and other food retailers may quality. Grocery purchases made at discount stores and smaller merchants such as drugstores and gas stations are not included.

Merchants in this category primarily sell auto fuel, such as a service station or EV charging station. Additionally, purchases made at truck stops, boat marinas, oil and propane distributors, and select utility providers (electric, gas, or water) may qualify.

Purchases made to rideshare apps, transit systems, passenger rail, taxis, limousines, buses and ferries may qualify.

You choose your category. We do the rest.

Pick your monthly rewards category. Then get 5% cash back1 on up to $1,000 spent in your cash back category per month.

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