### Apple Card News: Modifications to Cash Back Associates
At the beginning of this week, Apple revealed new collaborations for its Apple Card, featuring Booking.com and ChargePoint, both set to provide users with a 3% cash back reward. Although these fresh associations are a positive development for Apple Card holders, the announcement also brought some unfortunate information: Panera Bread, the sole dining associate granting 3% cash back, will eliminate this perk starting February 1, 2025.
#### Modifications to Cash Back at Panera Bread
As users navigate the “Merchant Benefits” section of the Apple Card within the Wallet app, they will come across a new notice regarding Panera Bread. The notice informs:
> “Beginning February 1, 2025, using Apple Pay at Panera Bread will transition from receiving 3% Daily Cash back to the typical 2% with Apple Pay.”
This implies that after February 1, 2025, patrons will no longer be able to experience the enhanced 3% cash back when dining at Panera. This transition signifies the conclusion of a partnership that commenced in August 2020, spanning a little over four years. Throughout this duration, Apple also provided exclusive promotions for new Apple Card holders, including a $50 cash back bonus after spending more than $50 at Panera.
#### The Consequences of the Change
The choice to diminish the cash back reward may arise from economic factors affecting Panera Bread. While the collaboration offered substantial advantages to consumers, it is feasible that the financial setup was not feasible for the company. Consequently, Panera will return to the regular 2% cash back rate for Apple Pay transactions.
#### Existing 3% Cash Back Partners
Even with the loss of Panera Bread, Apple Card holders can continue to benefit from 3% cash back at numerous other merchants. Current associates include:
– **Apple**
– **Ace Hardware**
– **Booking.com**
– **ChargePoint**
– **Exxon/Mobil**
– **Nike**
– **T-Mobile**
– **Uber/Uber Eats**
– **Walgreens/Duane Reade**
These associations consistently offer Apple Card users avenues to enhance their cash back rewards across various spending categories.
#### Conclusion
For Apple Card users who often dine at Panera Bread, time is of the essence. With less than three months left to capitalize on the 3% cash back opportunity, now is the moment to fully utilize this benefit. As the Apple Card progresses, users are advised to investigate the different partnerships accessible to optimize their rewards.
Are you among the Apple Card users? What enhancements or features would you like to see introduced to the Apple Card? Share your insights in the comments below!
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