RBC Cash Back Mastercard
A no-fee bank card with rewards set to change in October 2026, worth checking against the new structure before applying.
Looking for a Canadian cash back card with no annual fee? The RBC Cash Back Mastercard rewards grocery shopping most and now also recognizes transportation spending.
Everyday spenders who would rather earn a steady percentage back than track points are the card’s intended audience, especially those already comfortable with RBC.
You get 2% at grocery stores, 1% on gas, EV charging, transit and rideshare, 0.5% elsewhere, and no ceiling on earnings.
Why is the RBC Cash Back Mastercard worth it?
Since October 1, 2026, RBC applies a new earning scheme to this card. Under the old one, rates changed after $6,000 of yearly spending. That limit is gone, which makes the card simpler to evaluate.
Advantages
- $0 annual fee, with a $0 additional card
- Highest rate (2%) goes to grocery spending
- A 1% tier covers fuel, EV charging, transit and rideshare
- Earnings are not capped each year
- Purchase security and extended warranty insurance are included
Disadvantages
- Spending on other categories earns just 0.5%
- The purchase rate went from 20.99% to 21.99% on October 1, 2026
- The up-to-7% new cardholder bonus closed to applications after September 30, 2026
Important notice: this content is informational and based on official sources. We do not act as a financial intermediary.
Inside the RBC Cash Back Mastercard
The card is issued by RBC and runs on Mastercard. Rewards accumulate automatically and show up in your account, where you can redeem them.
Think of it as a two-speed card. Groceries and getting around earn the meaningful rates, while the rest of your budget quietly earns a smaller amount. Anyone planning to carry a balance should weigh the 21.99% interest against those rewards.
Key information
- Annual fee: $0
- Additional card fee: $0
- Earning rates: 2% groceries, 1% gas, EV charging, transit and rideshare, 0.5% on the rest
- Purchase rate: 21.99% (effective October 1, 2026)
- Minimum redemption: $25 now, $1 from December 2, 2026
- Network: Mastercard
Last updated: 01/10/2026
Digital platform: RBC Mobile App and online banking
Use them to check transactions, handle bills and set up mobile pay. NOMI, built into the app, sends alerts and financial insights. Starting December 2, 2026, redemption works anytime in online banking, the app or by phone.
Who is the RBC Cash Back Mastercard ideal for?
A family that spends heavily at the supermarket and drives or commutes regularly will get the most from the tiers. It also fits people who want a no-fee card tied to a major bank.
Shoppers whose money mostly goes to restaurants, travel or online retail will see only 0.5%, and people who revolve a balance month to month will probably lose more in interest than they gain.
Common questions
What is the annual fee?
None. The annual fee is $0 and so is the fee for an additional card.
Did the rewards change in October 2026?
Yes. RBC added a 1% tier for gas, EV charging, transit and rideshare and removed the annual cap.
Can I still get the 7% intro offer?
No. It required applications by September 30, 2026. Look at RBC’s page for whatever offer is current.
Is the RBC Cash Back Mastercard a good option?
For grocery-heavy budgets it is a sound, fee-free pick, and the uncapped structure is a clear improvement. Just remember the modest 0.5% base rate and the higher interest rate.
Open the full details page to learn about eligibility and the application steps.
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