This card has already been discontinued because the partnership between US Bank and Kroger has ended. Existing cardholders will be converted to the US Bank Smartly card, which can earn up to 4% cash back. Not bad, actually. I’ve also added this card to my discontinued credit card roundup for anyone who wants to do a little archaeology.

The replacement Smartly card is actually pretty good, but you need to pair it with a US Bank Checking account to get the highest 4% cash back on all purchases.

US Bank Smartly Credit Card

A powerhouse card!

  • Welcome bonus: N/A
  • Rewards: 2% cash back on all purchases (up to 4% with qualifying deposits)
  • Redemption: Redeem directly for cash back
  • Annual fee: $0
  • Apply now>>

US Bank Kroger Credit Card Review

U.S. Bank Kroger Credit Card

5% cash back on Kroger Pay and mobile wallet purchases, with no annual fee~

  • Welcome bonus: $100 (spend $500 in 90 days)
  • Rewards: 5% cash back on Kroger Pay and mobile wallet purchases (on the first $3k); 2% at Kroger; 1% on all other purchases
  • Redemption: Redeem for cash back
  • Annual fee: $0
  • Apply now>>

Benefits Analysis

  • 5% back on Kroger Pay: Kroger Pay is basically a QR code you open in the app and scan at checkout, which lets you pay using a credit card saved in the app. It is quite convenient. You earn 5% back on the first $3,000 each year, then 2% afterward, which is pretty good.
  • 5% back on Mobile Pay: Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Google Wallet, and Garmin Pay all qualify. You earn 5% back on the first $3,000 in purchases each calendar year, then 1% after that.
  • Boost membership discount, 2x Fuel Points: After getting the card, you can receive a $59 reimbursement when purchasing a Kroger Boost membership. That makes Next Day Delivery effectively free, while Same Day Delivery costs only $40.

My Take

The 5% back on mobile payments is pretty solid, though it does come with a $3,000 annual cap. In addition, for people who shop in-store at Kroger regularly, maxing out the $3,000 annual Kroger Pay category should not be difficult. Since this card also has no annual fee, that works out to as much as $300 in positive value per year, which is pretty nice. If you shop at Kroger often, or simply do not have many other cards left to apply for, this card is worth considering. It is one of the better co-branded store cards.

How to Apply

  • US Bank application status check link. Or call: 800-947-1444
  • When you apply, US Bank may check the two smaller credit bureaus SageStream & ARS credit reports, so you may consider freezing them before applying
  • You can only earn the welcome bonus on the same US Bank credit card once
  • You can call the reconsideration line (800-947-1444) to speed up the credit card approval process or to have a denied application reviewed again.
  • US Bank is relatively sensitive to HPs and new accounts. Having a US Bank Checking account can help with getting approved for a credit card
  • More about applying for US Bank credit cards

Application Link