Do You Earn Rewards at a Vape or Smoke Shop?
How tobacco and vape shops code
A vape or smoke shop rings up under a cigar-store or general-merchandise category code, outside the usual bonus buckets like dining and groceries, so most cards earn their base rate. Unlike dispensaries, tobacco and vape products are legal to process, so cards work normally where the shop accepts them. The framework is in merchant category codes explained.
Cash-only shops and surcharges
Some independent smoke shops prefer cash or add a surcharge for small card purchases to cover processing fees. Because the amounts are usually modest, a small surcharge can outweigh the rewards, so it is worth asking. Online tobacco and vape retailers usually take cards and code as that retailer.
The best card for a smoke shop
Since there is no tobacco bonus category, a strong flat-rate card earns the most when you can pay by card. The rewards are modest, so use a reliable everyday card from best cash back cards and value points at a flat 1 cent.
Frequently asked questions
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