Yesterday we updated our review of the Nusenda Federal Credit Union card that earns 5% cash back in rotating categories. It’s had the same 5% categories this year and the last two years as follows:
- Q1:Â Groceries + Gas Expenses
- Q2:Â Movies, Restaurants & Home Improvements
- Q3:Â Gas & Education Expenses
- Q4:Â Restaurants, Hotels & Airfare
I thought they only serviced a small geographical area, but a few people commented that you could join a qualifying organization to become a member and get the card. I didn’t see that option when trying to sign up online, so thought that must not be the case. I contacted Nuseda and asked them about it and turns out I was wrong and my readers were right (what a surprise).
Yes [it’s possible for anybody to join], through several associations that are not geographically dependent (NM Wilderness Alliance or La Montanita Food Co-op). A one time dues payment ($10) is required, but that’s it. The easiest way to apply for the card and gain membership is to call 800-347-2838. You can also apply online, but our membership application steers you to say where you work or study. They can fill out one of those options, and someone will call to follow-up and qualify them through the associations.
I’m probably going to apply for this card, I’ve been looking for something that offers 5% back at restaurants because I have a lot of reimbursable expenses a restaurants. This gives me two quarters of that and one quarter of grocery stores, I should be able to max both of those out, but wouldn’t spent much if anything in Q3. There is also no overlap with the Chase Freedom (and I don’t really expect much if any overlap with the Discover it either).
| Nusenda | Chase Freedom | Discover it | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q1 | Groceries +Â Gas Expenses | Gas stations + local commuter | Gas & ground transportation |
| Q2 | Movies, Restaurants & Home Improvements | Grocery stores + more | ? |
| Q3 | Gas & Education Expenses | Restaurants | ? |
| Q4 | Restaurants, Hotels & Airfare | Holiday Shopping | ? |
If I did max out three quarters I’d earn $225 in cash back. But I could earn $90 if I used a 2% cash back card, so really only a profit of $135. Welp, I think I just convinced myself not to sign up for this card. Would only really become profitable in year two (could just sign up for a card with a good cash back bonus instead) and more and more of my real spend will probably be going towards minimum spends in the coming years.
