As your trusted rewards experts at RewardSmart, we're always on the lookout for opportunities to turn everyday spending into extraordinary value. A fantastic deal on the horizon at Staples offers a prime example of how strategic planning can lead to significant rewards.
From June 21st to June 27th, 2026, Staples is running a promotion where you can get 100% back in Staples Rewards on eligible Scotch brand purchases, up to a maximum of $40. This isn't cash back to your credit card, but rather store credit that effectively makes your $40 Scotch purchase free in the form of future Staples spending. Let's break down how to maximize this offer.
Understanding the Staples Rewards Program
First, it's crucial to understand how Staples Rewards work. When you make a qualifying purchase, you earn points that accumulate in your Staples Rewards account. Once you hit certain thresholds, these points convert into rewards certificates, typically in $5 increments, which you can then use on future Staples purchases. For this specific promotion, you'll need to activate the offer within your Staples Rewards account before making your purchase. Missing this step means missing out on the 100% back.
This particular deal is powerful because it offers a dollar-for-dollar return in store credit. Spend $40 on Scotch products, and you'll receive $40 in Staples Rewards certificates to spend later. This effectively makes your initial Scotch purchase free, allowing you to stock up on essentials like tape, packaging materials, or other office supplies without truly spending out-of-pocket.
Strategic Credit Card Stacking for Ultimate Savings
While the 100% back comes from Staples, the real rewards expert move is to layer this with your credit card strategy. This is where you turn a free purchase into a points-earning free purchase.
Maximize Category Bonuses
Office supply stores are a bonus category for several excellent business credit cards. For instance, cards like the Chase Ink Business Cash® offer 5% cash back (or 5x Chase Ultimate Rewards points) on the first $25,000 spent annually at office supply stores. If you use such a card for your $40 Scotch purchase, you'd earn an additional 200 points on top of your $40 Staples Rewards. That's a fantastic return for a transaction that essentially costs you nothing long-term.
The Gift Card Maneuver
Even if you don't have a card with an office supply bonus, you can still optimize. Consider purchasing Staples gift cards at stores that do offer bonus categories. For example, if you have a card that earns 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (like the American Express® Gold Card), you could buy a $40 Staples gift card at a grocery store, earning 160 points. Then, use that gift card to make your Scotch purchase at Staples, still triggering the 100% back promotion. This strategy effectively shifts your spending to a higher-earning category.
Don't Forget Shopping Portals
Before making your purchase online, always check cash back or points portals like Rakuten (which earns Amex Membership Rewards points or cash back) or TopCashback. While portal rates for Staples can vary, adding an extra 1-5% back on your $40 purchase is another layer of savings that shouldn't be ignored. Even a small percentage on a 'free' item contributes to your overall rewards.
Check for Targeted Offers
Always review your Amex Offers, Chase Offers, or similar bank-specific promotions. Occasionally, you might find targeted discounts or bonus points for spending at Staples, which could be stacked with this deal for even greater savings.
Actionable Steps for RewardSmart Users
- Mark Your Calendar: The deal runs from June 21st to June 27th, 2026. Don't miss the window.
- Activate the Offer: Log into your Staples Rewards account and activate the 100% back on Scotch purchases. This is non-negotiable.
- Identify Products: Browse Staples.com or visit a store to identify eligible Scotch brand products that total close to $40. Aim to hit the $40 mark precisely to maximize your return.
- Choose Your Card Wisely: Select the credit card that offers the best return on office supply store spending (e.g., 5x points). If not, consider the gift card strategy to earn points in another bonus category.
- Check Portals: If shopping online, visit a shopping portal first to see if there's an additional bonus for Staples.
- Make the Purchase: Complete your qualifying Scotch purchase.
- Redeem Rewards: Once your Staples Rewards certificates are issued (usually within a few weeks), use them for your next Staples purchase, effectively making your Scotch items free.
This Staples promotion is a fantastic opportunity to leverage a simple store deal into a multi-layered rewards win. By combining Staples' own rebate with smart credit card choices and portal bonuses, you're not just getting free products; you're also earning valuable points or cash back that contribute to your larger travel or savings goals. Keep an eye out for similar deals – they are often your best chance to supercharge your rewards strategy! Happy earning!