Do You Earn Rewards on a Home Security System?

The short answer: Yes, at the base rate. Home security systems and monitoring services like ADT and Ring earn rewards like any purchase, but security is not a bonus category, so a flat-rate card earns the most. A recurring monitoring subscription can fit a card that rewards subscriptions if you have one.

How security systems code

A security or monitoring company rings up under a protective-services or subscription category code, outside the usual bonus buckets, so most cards earn their base rate on the monthly monitoring fee. Equipment bought up front may code as electronics or the retailer instead. The category framework is in what is a bonus category.

Subscriptions can fit a rewarding card

The monthly monitoring fee is a recurring charge, so if you hold a card that rewards subscriptions, routing it there can beat a flat card. Otherwise it earns the base rate like any bill. The recurring-charge angle is covered in best cards for subscriptions, and installation by a technician would code like home services.

The best card for home security

With no security bonus category, a strong flat-rate card earns the most on monitoring and equipment, unless a subscription-rewarding card applies. Run your spending through the rewards calculator to compare, and see options in best cash back cards.

Frequently asked questions

Does a home security system earn rewards?
Yes, at your base rate. Security and monitoring code as protective services or a subscription, which is not a bonus category, so most cards earn the base rate.
Does ADT or Ring monitoring earn a bonus?
Not a category bonus. The monthly fee earns the base rate, though a card that rewards subscriptions could earn a bit more if you hold one.
What card is best for home security?
A strong flat-rate card, or a subscription-rewarding card for the monthly monitoring fee. Equipment may code as electronics or the retailer instead.

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Bryce Casson

Written by Bryce Casson, Founder of Cardocrat. About the author and how we rank cards.