If you are looking for a credit card that combines the perks of cashback rewards, flexibility, and affordability, the Neo Credit Card is an outstanding choice.
The Neo Credit Card is a no-annual-fee cashback card that offers flexible redemption options and competitive earn rates that rival leading cashback cards in Canada.
With the Neo credit card, you can enjoy a generous $25 welcome bonus, an impressive 15% cashback on your initial purchase with most partners, and an average of 5% cashback at thousands of partners, with a guaranteed minimum of 0.5% cashback.
In this Neo Credit Card review, we will explore the Neo credit card, including its advantages, drawbacks, safety features, the application process, and how it compares with other prominent credit cards in the Canadian market.
Neo Credit Card – A Quick Glance
Neo Credit from Neo Financial offers up to 5% cash back without an annual fee. Monthly top-ups guarantee a minimum 0.5% cash back, and flexibility allows instant redemption with no annual credit or minimum balance. Unlike competitors, earn rates have no restrictions, though cashback is exclusive to Neo partners. Available nationwide, Neo ensures a fantastic cashback rate for Canadians everywhere.
- Free $25 Cash Bonus for New Signups.
- Very cool 15% offers on first-time purchases from partner stores.
- Most flexible and simple credit card in Canada.
- Quick approval process.
- Best cashback offers in Canada.
- Seamless Mobile app.
- Accepted anywhere that takes Mastercard.
- Available to Canadians with a credit score as low as 600.
- Instant compatibility with Google Pay and Apple Pay.
- Massive cashback bonuses only apply to partners
- No travel insurance package
About Neo Credit Card
The Neo Credit Card from Neo Financial is a game-changer in the world of cashback rewards. Offering up to 5% cash back on purchases from a vast network of Neo retail partners, this card sets itself apart with its high-reward structure—all without an annual fee.
This credit card also offers 5% average cashback at restaurants, bars and cafes, 3% on popular streaming services, 3% on ride-sharing services, 3% on food delivery services, and 2%+ at retail partners (online and in-store).
With the Neo card, you don’t need to wait for an annual credit or meet a minimum balance threshold to redeem your rewards; cashback can be redeemed at any time for any amount.
Unlike other cashback cards, earn rates with Neo Credit are not restricted by bonus categories or annual spending caps. However, it’s important to note that cashback is exclusive to purchases from Neo partners, and any desired additional perks can be seamlessly added as monthly subscriptions.
This card is available everywhere in Canada including Quebec. The Neo card ensures Canadians from coast to coast can enjoy a fantastic cashback rate wherever they shop.
Neo Credit Card Benefits
Let’s look at the some of the benefits you get to enjoy when you use the Neo credit card in Canada:
1. No Annual Fee
There is no annual fee with the Neo credit card. This means that every dollar you earn through cashback stays in your pocket, enhancing the overall value of your financial transactions.
2. Multiple One-Time Welcome Bonuses
Neo credit card offers a compelling welcome offer to jumpstart your benefits. You will receive an impressive 15% back on your initial purchases with Neo’s partner businesses. This enticing welcome bonus adds immediate value to your new credit card.
3. Lower Credit Score Requirements
Neo credit card requires only a 600 credit score for approval, making it an inclusive option for a wider audience. If you’ve encountered credit score challenges, Neo offers an accessible solution without compromising on rewarding purchases.
4. Cash Back Guarantee
Neo credit card ensures you receive a 0.5% cash back on net monthly purchases below the 0.5% earn rate, with a monthly cap of $50. This guarantee ensures you maximize your earnings consistently. Your cashback is seamlessly applied to your credit card balance, eliminating the need for manual redemption at regular intervals.
5. Interest-Free Payments
Take advantage of interest-free payments for up to six weeks when you pay your instalments on time. This feature provides flexibility in managing your expenses, allowing you to spread payments without incurring additional costs.
6. Easy Upgrade to Neo Premium
You can elevate your financial benefits by seamlessly upgrading to Neo Premium for a nominal monthly fee of $4.99 or an annual fee of $59.88. Unlock enhanced cashback rates, including 3% on gas and groceries and 0.5% on all other purchases.
7. User-intuitive Mobile App
Experience easy management of your transactions and discover deals effortlessly through Neo Financial’s user-friendly mobile app. Navigate your finances with simplicity and convenience on the go.
Neo Credit Card Downsides
While the Neo Mastercard offers several benefits, it’s essential to be aware of some downsides for a well-informed decision.
1. Lack of Included Insurance Coverage
One notable drawback is the absence of insurance coverage. Essential features such as extended warranty and purchase protection are not provided, and there is no coverage for travel insurance. If you value having complimentary insurance with your credit card, the Neo card may not meet your needs.
2. Caps on Reward Earnings
Another aspect to consider is the capped rewards system. When shopping at non-partner retailers, you won’t earn any rewards. However, to ensure some reward, you will be topped up to earning at least 0.5% on all purchases, up to a maximum of $50 per month.
Neo Credit Card Fees
While the Neo credit card is a no-annual-fee credit card, here are some fees that you should consider before making a decision:
1. Interest Rates
- Regular APR Min: 19.99%
- Regular APR Max: 29.99
2. Fees
- Cash Advance: 22.99%-31.99%
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.5%
- Annual Fee: $0
How to Apply for Neo Credit Card
To apply for the Neo credit card, you must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is at least 18 years old and must have the following documents:
- Your name, residential status and contact information
- Your email address and phone number
- Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) and date of birth
To start your Neo credit card application, visit Neo Financial’s website to initiate the application process.
When completing the application, provide your name, email address, Social Insurance Number (SIN), and birth date. Finally, review the information entered and submit your application.
How to Cancel Neo Credit Card
To cancel your account, simply visit your nearest agent and complete an account cancellation form. A cancellation fee will be deducted from your wallet’s balance, capped at 3% or $3.
Your account cancellation will be processed, and the refund will be returned to your wallet within one week.
Is Neo Credit Card Safe?
The Neo Credit Card is absolutely safe and secure to use.
The Neo card is issued by ATB Financial, the largest Alberta-based financial institution. It offers zero liability protection against unauthorized transactions and ensures secure account access through Face ID, fingerprint lock, and two-factor authentication features.
Being powered by Mastercard®, the Neo Credit Card is widely accepted wherever Mastercard is welcomed. It’s important to note that applying for the Neo Credit Card is a new credit application, and your payment history with the card contributes to your credit score.
In addition, Neo Credit offers a convenient security feature allowing you to freeze or unfreeze your card directly from the app. Whether you need to temporarily hold it due to misplacement or replace it entirely, these security functions are easily accessible within the Neo application, enhancing both efficiency and security.
Neo Credit Card Vs Neo Secured Credit Card
The Neo Secured Credit Card is designed as a credit-building tool, serving individuals looking to establish or rebuild their credit. As a secured credit card, users must provide a security deposit as collateral, offering a lower risk for the cardholder and the issuer.
This card type is generally accessible to individuals with various credit scores, making it an inclusive option for those with limited or damaged credit histories.
While it may share similarities with the Neo Credit Card, such as the potential requirement for a monthly subscription for certain benefits, it primarily focuses on helping users improve their creditworthiness.
Additionally, the Neo Secured Credit Card comes with no annual fees, providing a cost-effective means of building credit.
Neo Credit Card Vs Other Alternatives in Canada
Several credit cards in Canada offer benefits and features comparable to the Neo Credit card. Let’s examine how the Neo Credit card stacks against the Tangerine Money-Back card, Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa, and the TD Cash Back Visa Infinite Card.
Neo Credit Card vs Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card
The Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card boasts a flexible rewards system, allowing you to earn up to 2% cash back in two chosen bonus categories and 0.5% on all other Mastercard-accepted purchases. It has the added benefit of no annual fees and basic insurance coverage for purchase assurance and extended warranty protection.
In contrast, the Neo Credit card earns rewards exclusively from retail partners, and accessing card benefits requires a monthly subscription for insurance or additional perks.
RELATED: Tangerine Money-back Credit Card Review (2024)
Neo Credit Card vs Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa
Opting for the Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa means enjoying a no-fee card that offers up to 4% cash back. However, higher earning rates come with annual spending caps, potentially reducing the average cash back to 0.5%. The Neo Credit card boasts a solid average earn rate of 5% cash back without spending limits.
While Neo Credit’s rewards are confined to retail partners, its higher earning potential outshines the Simplii card, which is limited by specific bonus categories and annual caps.
RELATED: Simplii Global Money Transfer Review: Get $350 Bonus Now
Neo Credit Card vs TD Cash Back Visa Infinite Card
The TD Cash Back Visa Infinite Card provides enticing perks, allowing you to earn up to 3% on groceries, gas, and recurring bill payments. However, it comes with a $139 annual fee, and the accelerated earning rate drops to 1% cash back after hitting the $15,000 annual spending limit.
Conversely, the Neo Credit card provides benefits through monthly subscriptions, ensuring no annual fees or spending limits on cash-back rewards. Consider your spending habits and priorities when deciding which credit card aligns best with your financial goals.
Final Thoughts on Neo Credit Card Review
It’s evident that the Neo Credit Card has carved its niche with competitive earning rates and flexible redemption options. Neo Credit Card has proven its worth, from the enticing $25 welcome bonus to the impressive 15% cashback on the first purchase and the consistent 5% cashback at numerous partners.
If you’re ready to elevate your credit card experience and reap the benefits, why not take the next step? Apply for your Neo Credit Card today and unlock a world of rewards tailored to your lifestyle.
