What's the best credit card for groceries in Canada?

The American Express Cobalt® Card offers 5 points per dollar at the grocery store. The TD First Class Travel Card and the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card give 6 points per dollar. For grocery stores that don't accept American Express, the National Bank World Elite Mastercard with 5 points per dollar remains excellent.

How can I maximize my rewards if my grocery store doesn't accept American Express?

Use a Visa or Mastercard offering a good reward rate on groceries, such as the National Bank World Elite Mastercard (5 points per dollar) or the TD First Class Travel Card (6 points per dollar). Combine it with the store's loyalty programs for a "double dip."

Which loyalty programs are the most profitable at the grocery store?

The most popular programs for groceries in Canada are Scene+ (at IGA), PC Optimum (at Maxi, Provigo, and Shoppers Drug Mart), Moi (at Metro and Super C), and AIR MILES (via receipt scanning). Combining these programs with a high-performing credit card multiplies the gains.

Can you combine a credit card and a loyalty program at the grocery store?

Yes, it's the most effective strategy. You pay with your credit card (for example the Cobalt at 5 points per dollar) and you present your store loyalty card (Scene+, PC Optimum, etc.) in the same transaction. You thus accumulate points on two programs simultaneously. Some team experts even add receipt scanning in the AIR MILES app for a "triple dip."

How do you scan your receipts to get additional rewards?

The AIR MILES app allows you to scan your grocery receipts to earn bonus miles, regardless of the store. The Checkout51 app also offers rebates on certain products. These tools are in addition to the points earned through your credit card and your in-store loyalty program.

Which credit card should I use at Costco for groceries?

Costco only accepts Mastercard. The National Bank World Elite Mastercard is a popular choice among the team. However, the enhanced rate of 5 points per dollar applies to groceries, not directly at Costco. A tip: buy Costco gift cards with a card offering a better rate, then use them in-store.

How many points can you earn per month with your grocery purchases?

With a grocery budget of $800 per month and a card offering 5 points per dollar, you earn 4,000 points per month, or 48,000 points per year. Cards at 6 points per dollar generate 57,600 annual points on the same budget. These points can be worth between $480 and $576 in cash back, or more if you transfer them to an airline program.

How do you use your grocery points to travel?

American Express Membership Rewards points (Cobalt Card) transfer to Aeroplan, Flying Blue, or British Airways to book flights. Scene+ points and TD Points can be redeemed for hotel nights, Airbnb rentals, or travel packages. Check out our best travel credit cards page to learn more.