Do You Earn Rewards on Computer and Phone Repair?
How repair shops code
A computer or phone repair shop rings up under an electronics-repair or general-repair category code, outside the usual bonus buckets, so most cards earn their base rate. A repair handled through a manufacturer like Apple, or a big-box electronics store, may code as that retailer instead, which occasionally carries its own offer. The framework is in merchant category codes explained.
Protection benefits may matter more
Before paying to repair a phone, check whether a card benefit already covers it. Some cards include cell-phone protection when you pay your monthly bill with the card, which can reimburse a cracked screen or damage, as covered in credit card cell phone protection. That coverage is often worth far more than any rewards on the repair.
The best card for repairs
Since repairs have no bonus category, a strong flat-rate card earns the most when you pay out of pocket. Value points at a flat 1 cent and see the flat-rate earners in best cash back cards.