The Choice Rewards World Mastercard® from First Tech Federal Credit Union is excellent for those seeking a rewarding and cost-effective credit card. It offers immediate value with no annual fee and an attractive welcome bonus. The card's straightforward rewards program for everyday purchases ensures consistent points accumulation. Its flexible redemption options, including cash back and unique experiences, enhance its appeal. Added security features and exclusive discounts from well-known brands further boost its utility. Although exclusive to First Tech members, this card might appeal to Portland Trail Blazers fans, who can enjoy additional team-specific benefits.
Choice Rewards World Mastercard® Review
Our review explores the Choice Rewards World Mastercard® from First Tech Federal Credit Union, highlighting its no-fee structure, exclusive member benefits and suitability for daily spending and savvy financial management.
Updated: December 10, 2024
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- PROS
- No annual fee
- With welcome bonus points offer
- 0% APR for balance transfers for 12 months
- All purchases get rewards points
- Points never expire and have diverse redemption options
CONS- Low rewards for non-bonus categories
- Exclusive to First Tech Credit Union members
- No travel benefits
- Introductory Offers
- Earn 20,000 bonus points, valued at $200, after spending $3,000 in the first 60 days.
- Enjoy 0% introductory APR and no-fee balance transfers for 12 billing cycles when transferring within 90 days of opening the Choice Rewards Mastercard.
- Rewards
- Earn 2X rewards points on everyday purchases like gas, groceries, and household goods.
- Earn one reward point for all other purchases.
- Redeem points for cash back, travel, merchandise, gift cards, and unique experiences.
- There's no cap and expiry on rewards points.
- APRs, Fees, and Penalties
- No annual fee.
- After the introductory period, the balance transfer APR will be between 13.25% and 18.00%.
- Perks & Benefits
- Mastercard Purchase Assurance covers your purchases against damage and theft for 90 days.
- Avail of exclusive discounts from brands like Doordash, Hello Fresh, Lyft, and Fandango.
- Benefit from Mastercard's suite of features such as ID Theft Protection, MasterRental Coverage, and Master Global Service.
- Receive 24-hour worldwide assistance for lost/stolen card reporting, emergency replacements, and cash advances.
- Portland Trail Blazers fans can opt for a Blazers-branded card with added team-specific benefits.
- Membership Requirement
- Applicant must be a First Tech Credit Union member to qualify.
- Introductory Offers
Choice Rewards World Mastercard® Overview
When choosing a credit card, carefully evaluating its features is crucial, as they can significantly impact your financial flexibility and overall satisfaction.
- Rewards rate: Earn 2X rewards points on everyday purchases like gas, groceries and household goods; earn one reward point for all other purchases
- Welcome offer: Earn 20,000 bonus points, valued at $200, when you spend $3,000 in the first 60 days
- Regular APR: 13.25% and 18.00% (Variable)
- Annual fee: $0
- Introductory APR offer: None
Important Card Details
To help you evaluate if the Choice Rewards World Mastercard® is the right choice for you, MoneyGeek analyzed its unique features and specific requirements. This analysis aims to provide an unbiased overview, highlighting how each aspect of the card may cater to different consumer needs and preferences.
Fees
The Choice Rewards World Mastercard® from First Tech Federal Credit Union stands out as a consumer-friendly option due to its lack of an annual fee. Note that the yearly fees of other credit cards on the market can eat into any benefits you might earn. This no-annual-fee feature ensures that you enjoy the perks without any recurring overhead. It's an appealing feature for budget-conscious consumers who want to maximize their card benefits.
Rewards
This card is a dream for those who prioritize rewards. It offers 2X points on everyday expenses like gas, groceries and household items, so you're continually earning while going about your routine. Additionally, for all other purchases, you earn one point. With no limit on how many points you can accumulate and the assurance that they never expire, this card rewards purchases in areas where consumers typically spend the most, making it highly practical.
Eligibility
One potential hurdle for prospective cardholders is that you must be a First Tech Credit Union member to qualify. This eligibility requirement creates a level of exclusivity. It's vital for interested parties to research and understand the perks and commitments associated with joining the credit union, ensuring it aligns with their financial goals.
Welcome Offers
The welcome offer of 20,000 bonus points, equivalent to $200, when you spend $3,000 in the first 60 days, can be quite enticing. Welcome bonuses provide an immediate incentive and show the card's value from the start. This upfront reward is competitive, especially for consumers looking to make a significant purchase or shift their regular spending to a new card.
Other Perks
Beyond rewards, the Choice Rewards World Mastercard® boasts a plethora of unique features. The Mastercard Purchase Assurance shields your purchases from damage and theft. There are exclusive brand discounts from giants like Doordash and Lyft. Plus, the suite of Mastercard benefits like ID Theft Protection™ and MasterRental Coverage instill a sense of security. For basketball enthusiasts, the Blazers-branded card option is a delightful touch, binding loyalty to both a favorite team and a trusted financial partner.
How the Choice Rewards World Mastercard® Compares
In our side-by-side comparison, we delve into the distinct features and benefits of two popular credit cards, offering insights to help you determine which aligns best with your financial goals and lifestyle.
How This Card Compares
Choice Rewards World Mastercard®
- Rewards rate: Earn 2X rewards points on everyday purchases like gas, groceries and household goods; earn one reward point for all other purchases
- Welcome offer: Earn 20,000 bonus points, valued at $200, when you spend $3,000 in the first 60 days
- Regular APR: 13.25% and 18.00% (Variable)
- Annual fee: $0
- Intro APR offer: None
- Best for: Budget-conscious consumers and everyday spenders who seek to maximize rewards on routine purchases without worrying about annual fees or introductory APR offers
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
- Rewards rate: Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases
- Welcome offer: Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months
- Regular APR: 20.24%, 25.24% or 29.99% (Variable)
- Annual fee: $0
- Intro APR offer: 0% introductory APR for your first 15 months from account opening, then 20.24%, 25.24% or 29.99% Variable APR after that
- Best for: Consumers seeking straightforward cash rewards with a generous welcome offer and those who can benefit from an introductory APR period; particularly suited for small to moderate spenders
About Grace Pilling
Grace Pilling was the Senior Content Manager for Credit Cards at MoneyGeek. She previously led personal finance teams at Bankrate, CreditCards.com and MoneyUnder30.
Pilling has a bachelor's degree in English from Western Sydney University and a diploma in book editing, proofreading and publishing. She is focused on empowering readers to make informed financial choices that support their best lives, not a company’s bottom line.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions, reviews, analyses and recommendations are the author’s alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. Learn more about our editorial policies and expert editorial team.
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