Staples Gift Card Deal: Maximize Your Rewards!

RewardSmart users, get ready! From March 1st to March 7th, 2026, Staples is running a promotion that can help you boost your credit card rewards balance. They're waiving the activation fees on $200 Mastercard gift cards. This is a prime opportunity to earn points, miles, or cashback without paying extra fees that normally eat into your returns.

Normally, purchasing gift cards to earn rewards can be a tricky game. The activation fees often negate the value of the points you earn. However, with these fee-free gift cards, you can essentially treat the purchase as any other expense, maximizing your rewards potential.

Strategic Ways to Leverage This Deal

Here's how you can make the most of this limited-time promotion:

  • Meet Minimum Spending Requirements: Are you trying to hit a minimum spending requirement on a new credit card to unlock a sign-up bonus? Purchasing these gift cards can be a quick and easy way to reach that goal. Just remember to responsibly manage your spending and pay off your balance on time.
  • Maximize Category Bonuses: Use a credit card that offers bonus rewards at office supply stores. Many cards offer elevated rewards (2x, 3x, or even 5x points/cashback) on purchases made at stores like Staples. This deal is especially lucrative if you can combine the fee waiver with a category bonus.
  • Everyday Spending: Use the gift cards for your regular everyday expenses where you typically use cash or debit. Groceries, gas, dining out – these are all potential uses for your gift cards, allowing you to earn rewards on purchases you would make anyway.
  • Gift Giving: Keep a stash of these gift cards on hand for birthdays, holidays, or other special occasions. They make a great, versatile gift, and you'll have earned rewards in the process.

Important Considerations

  • Daily Purchase Limits: Staples lists a limit of nine gift cards per customer per day. Be aware of this limitation when planning your purchases. However, the original source did note that some stores might allow more. It's worth checking with your local store.
  • Credit Card Limits: Ensure you don't exceed your credit card limit when purchasing multiple gift cards.
  • Redemption: Remember that Mastercard gift cards may not be accepted everywhere. Check with individual merchants before attempting to use them.
  • Record Keeping: Keep track of the gift card numbers and balances to avoid any issues.

RewardSmart Recommendation

This Staples promotion is a fantastic opportunity to boost your credit card rewards. If you have a card that earns bonus rewards at office supply stores or need to meet a minimum spending requirement, take advantage of this deal while it lasts. Remember to spend responsibly and track your gift card balances. Don't miss out – this promotion ends on March 7th, 2026!