Unlock the full potential of your RBC ION+ Visa credit card by understanding how to maximize your Avion points earnings. This guide breaks down the eligible purchase categories and Merchant Category Codes (MCCs) to ensure you’re earning the most rewards possible.
The RBC ION+ Visa credit card offers a compelling rewards program, giving you the opportunity to earn Avion points on everyday purchases. Specifically, you can earn points at an accelerated rate on a variety of popular spending categories. Let’s delve into the details of how these points are accumulated.
One of the most attractive features of the RBC ION+ Visa is the ability to earn 3 Avion points for every $1.00 spent on specific categories. These bonus categories are designed to reward your everyday spending habits and include:
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Grocery, Dining, and Food Delivery Purchases: Stocking up your pantry or enjoying a meal out? Purchases at “Grocery Stores and Supermarkets” (MCC 5411), “Eating Places and Restaurants” (MCC 5812), “Drinking Places” (MCC 5813), and “Fast Food Restaurants” (MCC 5814) all qualify for the enhanced rewards rate. It’s worth noting that while liquor agencies might sell groceries, they are not included under the “Drinking Places” MCC for bonus points.
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Rides, Gas & Electric Vehicle Charging Purchases: Commuting and transportation costs can add up. Luckily, your RBC ION+ Visa helps you earn more on these expenses. Eligible MCCs include “Service Stations” (MCC 5541), “Automated Fuel Dispensers” (MCC 5542), “Taxicabs and Limousines” (MCC 4121), “Local and Suburban Commuter Passenger Transportation” (MCC 4111), and “Electric Vehicle Charging” (MCC 5552). Remember, this excludes non-commuter railway and bus line purchases.
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Streaming, Digital Gaming & Subscriptions Purchases: In today’s digital world, subscriptions are commonplace. The RBC ION+ Visa rewards you for your digital entertainment and software needs. Qualifying MCCs are “Digital Goods Media” (MCC 5815), “Digital Goods – Games” (MCC 5816), “Digital Goods – Applications” (MCC 5817), “Digital Goods – Large Digital Goods Merchants” (MCC 5818), and “Cable, Satellite and Other Pay Television/Radio/Streaming Services” (MCC 4899). It’s important to note that games of chance and gambling are not included in the “Digital Goods – Games” MCC.
For all other purchases, including pre-authorized bill payments, you will earn 1 Avion point for every $1.00 spent on your RBC ION+ Visa credit card. This ensures you’re always earning rewards, no matter where you shop.
It’s crucial to understand the role of Merchant Category Codes (MCCs). Visa uses MCCs to classify merchants based on their primary business activities. While a store might sell items from bonus categories, the purchase may not qualify for the accelerated rewards rate if the merchant is not classified under an eligible MCC. Similarly, purchases made at a non-eligible merchant located within an eligible merchant’s premises will also not qualify for bonus points. RBC is not liable for purchases not qualifying due to incorrect MCC classifications.
Avion points are calculated on net purchases only. This means that cash advances, balance transfers, interest charges, fees, and credits from returns or adjustments do not earn points, and returns can reduce previously earned points.
By understanding these categories and the importance of MCCs, you can strategically use your RBC ION+ Visa to maximize your Avion points earnings and make the most of your credit card rewards program.
