NatWest Reward Card: Is the £24 Fee Worth It?
The NatWest Reward Card offers 1% back on groceries, but is the £24 annual fee justified? Let's dive into the details.
The Quick Version
The NatWest Reward Card gives you 1% back at supermarkets and 0.25% everywhere else. If you have a NatWest Reward current account, the £24 annual fee is waived, otherwise, you're stuck with it. With a hefty 31% APR, this card is best for those who pay off their balance monthly. The rewards are decent, but it's not the best option if you're carrying debt.
NatWest Reward Card
NatWest Reward Card overview
NatWest Reward Card
What's Inside
The NatWest Reward Card offers 1% back on supermarket spending and 0.25% everywhere else. You can also earn 1-15% back at select MyRewards retailers. The annual fee is £24, but it's refunded if you have a Reward current account. The representative APR is a steep 31% (variable), with a purchase rate of 25.9% p.a. (variable). You'll need to be a UK resident, 18+, and earn at least £10,000 annually to qualify.
What's Actually Good
The real highlight here is the 1% back at supermarkets — better than what many cards offer. If you already have a NatWest Reward current account, this card becomes a no-brainer for your grocery runs, as the annual fee is waived. The extra cashback at MyRewards retailers is a nice perk if you shop at those places.
The Catch
The £24 annual fee is a nuisance unless you have a NatWest Reward current account. But the real kicker is the 31% APR, which is brutal if you're not paying off the balance each month. Also, the 0.25% cashback everywhere else is underwhelming. The card doesn't shine unless you're a frequent supermarket shopper.
Who It's For
If you're a UK resident with a NatWest Reward current account and spend heavily on groceries, this card could be a great fit. It's also suitable for those who always pay off their balance monthly to avoid the high APR. But if you're looking for a card with broader cashback returns or travel perks, look elsewhere.
The Bottom Line
The NatWest Reward Card is a mixed bag. It's attractive if you're maximizing grocery spending and have a NatWest Reward current account. Otherwise, the high APR and annual fee make it less appealing. For a broader rewards card, you might want to check out the Amex Gold: Worth the $250 a Year? for a different angle on rewards.