If you’re looking for a versatile credit card that offers incredible value, the PC® Mastercard® may be the ideal choice. Whether you’re new to credit cards or seeking a card that enhances your everyday spending, this option from PC Financial is worth considering.
Benefits of the PC® Mastercard®
The PC® Mastercard® comes with many perks that can help you save on groceries, travel, and even everyday purchases. The key benefits include:
1. No Annual Fee
One of the most attractive features of the PC® Mastercard® is that it comes with no annual fee. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals who want to enjoy the rewards of a credit card without the extra cost of maintaining one.
2. Rewards Program – PC Optimum Points
The PC Optimum Points program is a standout feature of the PC® Mastercard®. This rewards system allows you to accumulate points every time you use your card. Here’s a breakdown of how you can earn:
- 25 points per $1 spent at Shoppers Drug Mart.
- 10 points per $1 spent on groceries at Loblaws banner stores (including No Frills, Real Canadian Superstore, and more).
- 10 points per $1 spent on PC Travel.
- Everyday spending on anything else will earn you 10 points per $1.
3. Versatile Point Redemption
PC Optimum Points offer flexibility when it comes to redemption. Points can be redeemed for purchases at participating retailers such as Loblaws, No Frills, Real Canadian Superstore, Joe Fresh, Shoppers Drug Mart, and PC Travel. This makes the PC® Mastercard® a practical card for frequent shoppers at these stores, as you can use your points to offset future purchases.
4. Travel Rewards
The PC® Mastercard® makes travel more affordable by allowing you to accumulate points when you book travel through PC Travel. Points earned through travel bookings can then be used toward future trips, giving you even more value for every purchase.
5. Special Offers and Personalized Deals
The PC Optimum Points program often includes personalized offers based on your spending habits. By linking your PC Optimum account, you can receive tailored deals that boost the points you earn on specific purchases, giving you the opportunity to save even more.
Fees and Interest Rates
Understanding the fees associated with any credit card is essential to making an informed decision. Fortunately, the PC® Mastercard® is an affordable card in terms of fees:
- Annual Fee: $0
- Interest Rate on Purchases: 20.97%
- Interest Rate on Cash Advances: 22.97%
- Balance Transfer Rate: 0% for the first 6 months, followed by 22.97%
These rates are comparable to many other no-fee credit cards, and while the balance transfer rate may be high after the initial promotional period, the lack of an annual fee and the rewards structure make the PC® Mastercard® an appealing option for responsible credit users.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Can I Maximize My PC Optimum Points?
Maximizing your points is easy if you frequently shop at Loblaws banner stores and Shoppers Drug Mart. You earn points on everyday purchases, so by using your PC® Mastercard® consistently for groceries, pharmacy needs, and travel through PC Travel, you can build up your points quickly.
Additionally, linking your card with your PC Optimum account ensures you can take advantage of personalized offers and special promotions, allowing you to rack up points faster.
Can I Redeem My Points for Cash?
No, PC Optimum Points cannot be redeemed for cash. However, you can use your points for purchases at Loblaws banner stores, Shoppers Drug Mart, PC Travel, and other participating retailers. Each 10,000 points equals $10 in rewards, which can go a long way toward reducing your grocery bill or funding your next vacation.
Are There Any Hidden Fees?
No, there are no hidden fees with the PC® Mastercard®. There’s no annual fee, and interest rates are straightforward. As with any credit card, you’ll need to watch out for interest charges if you carry a balance or take out a cash advance, but the card itself does not have any additional hidden charges.
How Does the Card’s Interest Rate Compare?
The interest rate on purchases is 20.97%, which is fairly standard among Canadian credit cards, especially those that have no annual fee. The rate for cash advances and balance transfers is slightly higher, at 22.97%, but this is not uncommon for most no-fee cards. As always, paying off your balance in full each month will help you avoid these interest charges altogether.
Is the PC® Mastercard® Right for You?
The PC® Mastercard® is an excellent option for anyone who frequently shops at Loblaws banner stores, Shoppers Drug Mart, or uses PC Travel. The no annual fee, combined with the ability to earn and redeem PC Optimum Points for everyday purchases, makes it a practical and rewarding card for budget-conscious shoppers. If you’re looking for a simple, straightforward card that helps you save on groceries, travel, and pharmacy needs, the PC® Mastercard® is a solid choice.
I have 13 years of experience in customer service at one of Brazil’s largest banks, including 5 years as a general branch manager. I am a specialist in banking products and services with a proven track record in team leadership and business development. I am also a holder of Brazilian certifications CPA-10 and CPA-20.