Discover Launches Q4 2026 5% Cash‑Back on Entertainment, Restaurants and Utilities

Discover’s fourth‑quarter rotating categories are live through December 31, offering 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined eligible purchases across entertainment, restaurants and utilities. Cardholders must activate the categories—either via the Discover mobile app or online account—to qualify, and the elevated rate is not retroactive. This lineup marks a departure from the usual holiday‑shopping focus, replacing Amazon and Target with experiences and recurring household expenses. The move gives consumers a chance to earn bonus cash back on holiday movie tickets, dinner outings and utility bills, potentially reaching the $1,500 cap for $75 in cash back. Utility users should verify whether their provider charges a credit‑card fee, which could offset the reward. Discover’s rotating‑category system also supports a broader strategy: spend in the three categories to hit the cap and then enjoy the standard 1% cash back on all other purchases.