Credit Card Review: Rewards MasterCard from MBNA

By Janet Hutchins on Jun 15, 2012 | Filed in Reviews

If you are looking for a basic rewards credit card, the Rewards MasterCard from MBNA might not be a bad choice. It offers the basics of a MasterCard, with its wide global acceptance, as well as a rewards program that is adequate for most people, and flexible when it comes to redemption. But don’t expect any bells and whistles.

Features of the Rewards MasterCard from MBNA

MBNA is one of the major credit card issuers in Canada, and is known for its wide variety of offerings. Among the offerings is a very simple, stripped-down rewards card, the Rewards MasterCard from MBNA. This is the credit card for someone who spends using the credit card on occasion, and wants flexible rewards.

Earn points on every qualifying purchase

Additional Benefits

  • Earn 1 mbna rewards point for every $1 spent on eligible transactions‡
  • Choose your rewards
  • Redeem points for cash back, travel, brand-name merchandise, gift cards from top retailers and charitable donations
  • Earn extra points
  • 1,000 bonus points after your first eligible purchase††
  • No annual fee
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Annual Fee:
$0
Purchase APR:
19.99%
Balance Transfer APR:
21.99%
Cash Advance APR:
24.99%

The rewards program is flexible and is designed so that you can redeem your rewards for whatever you want. You can redeem points for cash back, travel rewards, merchandise, and gift cards from top retailers. It’s even possible to donate your rewards to charity, if there is a cause you want to support. This flexibility makes it possible to choose the rewards you want. However, it’s important to be wary of the interest rate. Since you will pay a 19.99% APR on carried balances, it’s easy to destroy the value of your rewards in interest charges.

This card is best for those who are looking for a simple, straightforward rewards program. The bonus points are nice, and it’s easy to quickly earn MBNA rewards points when you use your card for everything. However, if you aren’t interested in using a credit card very much, this is a good card. It works well in emergencies, while allowing you to earn points when you do use the card. And, since there is no annual fee, you don’t lose anything by having it — as long as you pay off your balance each month.

With savvy credit card use, and with careful planning, it’s possible to make the most of the Rewards MasterCard from MBNA.