The Tata Cliq debit card is a relatively new offering in the Indian financial market that is steadily gaining popularity. Launched in 2021 by Tata Group in collaboration with RBL Bank, this co-branded debit card aims to provide an enhanced shopping experience and rewards to customers.
In this comprehensive review, we will take a look at the key features of the Tata Cliq debit card, the benefits offered, the joining process, charges, and more. We will also answer some frequently asked questions to help you determine if this is the right card for your needs.
Overview of Tata Cliq Debit Card
The Tata Cliq debit card has been designed to provide maximum savings and rewards to frequent shoppers on Tata’s online shopping portal TataCliQ.com. It provides exclusive offers and instant discounts to cardholders shopping on TataCliQ.
Some of the key features and benefits of the Tata Cliq debit card include:
- 10% instant discount– Get 10% off on all purchases at TataCliQ.com with no minimum spend required. This makes it among the highest instant discount offers.
- Welcome gift voucher– Get a gift voucher worth Rs.1000 on the first card transaction within 30 days of getting the card.
- 5% cashback– Get 5% cashback (max Rs.500 per month) on all purchases made through the card on TataCliQ. Cashback is credited every month.
- EMI facility– Convert high-value purchases into EMIs at zero additional charge. The tenure can range from 3 to 24 months.
- Lounge access– Get complimentary access to domestic airport lounges twice per quarter.
- Fuel surcharge waiver– 1% fuel surcharge waiver on fuel purchases. A minimum transaction of Rs.500 is required.
- Lost card liability cover– Zero lost card liability in case of unauthorized transactions due to lost/stolen cards.
In addition to savings on TataCliQ.com, the debit card also offers rewards on other daily spends like groceries, dining, entertainment, fuel, etc. Making it an attractive proposition for shoppers and non-shoppers alike.
How to Get the Tata Cliq Debit Card?
The process of getting the Tata Cliq debit card is simple and quick. Follow these steps:
Step 1) Visit the Tata Cliq website and click on the ‘Debit Card’ option at the top right corner of the homepage.
Step 2) You will be redirected to an application form. Fill in the required details like name, mobile number, date of birth, etc.
Step 3) Upload scanned copies of your passport-sized photo, PAN card, and address proof documents.
Step 4) Make a refundable application fee payment of Rs.200+GST. This amount will be refunded to your bank account within 3 weeks if your application is rejected.
Step 5) Submit the application form. The verification process takes 2-7 days.
Step 6) If your application is approved, the card will be couriered to your registered address within 7 working days. Activate it through SMS/IVR upon receiving it.
The whole process is online and no physical documentation is required in most cases. Your debit card should be in your hands within 2 weeks from start to finish.
Fees
The Tata Cliq debit card comes with minimal fees, making it easy on the pocket:
- Issuance fee – Rs.200 + GST (refundable if application rejected)
- Annual fee – Nil
- Renewal fee – Nil
- Replacement card fee – Rs.100
- Cash withdrawal charges – Nil for first 5 transactions per month, Rs.20 thereafter
- Balance inquiry fee – Nil
- Lost card replacement fee – Rs.100
- Failed transaction reversal fee – Nil
- Hotlisting charges – Nil
As you can see, there are no annual or renewal fees. The card issuance and usage are free if you use it smartly.
Top Benefits and Offers
Let’s look at some of the best benefits and offers provided by the Tata Cliq debit card:
- 10% Instant Discount on TataCliQ
The flagship offer of this card is a flat 10% instant discount on all purchases made on TataCliQ across all categories. For fashion, electronics, footwear, home décor, and appliances, you get 10% off on your net cart value when you checkout with the debit card. No minimum spend is required to avail of this offer.
For example, if you buy a mobile phone for Rs.20,000 on TataCliQ, you instantaneously save Rs.2,000. This makes the TataCliq debit card a must-have for all regular TataCliQ shoppers.
- Buy Now, Pay Later EMI Facility
The debit card allows you to convert your high-value TataCliQ purchases into EMIs at zero additional charges. You can select the EMI tenure from 3 months to 24 months while making the purchase.
This BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) feature is helpful when you want to buy expensive items like refrigerators, washing machines, etc. but don’t want to pay for them in one go. Paying through EMIs is like an interest-free loan from Tata Cliq and RBL Bank.
- Welcome Gift Voucher Worth Rs.1000
When you make your first purchase on the debit card within 30 days of getting it, you get a TataCliQ e-voucher worth Rs.1000. You can use this voucher on your next purchase to save Rs.1000 extra.
- Monthly Cashback of 5% up to Rs.500
All monthly purchases made on TataCliQ through the debit card get 5% cashback, up to a maximum of Rs.500. For instance, if you spend Rs.10,000 in a month, you will get a cashback of Rs.500 (5% of Rs.10,000).
The cashback is calculated on net purchases after deducting discounts, vouchers, etc. It will be credited to your card account on the 1st of every month and can be redeemed during your next transaction.
- Domestic Lounge Access
This debit card provides complimentary access to airport lounges in India twice per quarter. Each quarter is defined as 3 months – Jan to March, April to June, July to Sept, and Oct to Dec.
So in a year, you can access airport lounges 8 times free of charge. Each lounge access is valid for 4 hours. This offer is worth Rs.6500 per year, considering each domestic lounge access costs approx. Rs.800.
- Fuel Surcharge Waiver
While paying for fuel using this debit card, you get a 1% waiver on the fuel surcharge. The minimum transaction should be Rs.500 to avail this benefit. For metros, the surcharge waiver is capped at Rs.50 per month. For non-metros, it is capped at Rs.25 per month.
- Lost Card Liability Cover
In case your Tata Cliq debit card is lost or stolen, you have zero liability for any unauthorized transactions. This provides peace of mind against potential fraud. However, you have to immediately report the loss so that the card can be blocked.
Pros and Cons
Here is a quick rundown of some notable pros and cons of the Tata Cliq Debit Card:
Pros:
- 10% instant discount on TataCliQ
- 5% monthly cashback on TataCliQ
- Zero annual and renewal fees
- EMI facility on TataCliQ purchases
- Domestic lounge access worth Rs.6500 per year
- 1% fuel surcharge waiver
- Lost card liability cover
Cons:
- Not accepted internationally
- Limited acceptance in India except for TataCliQ and RBL Bank ATMs
- Cashback and offers are applicable only on TataCliQ
- Limited dining and entertainment offers
While the card provides excellent savings on TataCliQ and good rewards for frequent shoppers, its usage is currently limited outside of the Tata ecosystem. Lack of international acceptance might be an issue for some. However, it can still work well as a secondary card for Indian shoppers who buy online regularly.
FAQs on Tata Cliq Debit Card
- Who is eligible for the Tata Cliq debit card?
The card is available for Indian citizens above 18 years of age. You must have a valid PAN card and residential address proof to apply.
- How is the Tata Cliq debit card different from regular debit cards?
Unlike regular debit cards, the Tata Cliq card offers a 10% discount, 5% cashback, and other shopping rewards specifically on transactions at TataCliQ.com. It has been tailor-made for TataCliQ’s online shoppers.
- How do I get my cashback amount?
The cashback you earn every month will be credited to your card account on the 1st of the next month. You can redeem it automatically on your next purchase transaction at TataCliQ. No manual intervention is needed.
- Can I make international transactions on the Tata Cliq debit card?
No, currently it is only enabled for domestic Indian transactions on online portals, ATMs, and point-of-sale terminals in India. International transactions are not permitted.
- Is there a maximum limit on discounts and cashback?
Yes, the 10% instant discount is capped at Rs.500 per month. The 5% cashback reward is capped at Rs.500 per month. The total savings are limited to Rs.1000 per month.
In summary, the Tata Cliq debit card simplifies your shopping on TataCliQ with generous discounts, rewards, and EMI conversions. For TataCliQ loyalists, it is certainly a rewarding membership that provides more bang for your buck. Both occasional buyers and heavy shoppers can benefit from this card and amplify their savings effortlessly.
Conclusion
For avid online shoppers on TataCliQ, the Tata Cliq debit card is a rewarding option that provides instant 10% discount and 5% cashback every month. The savings can add up to substantial amounts annually.
The easy EMI conversion, domestic lounge access, fuel surcharge waiver, and complimentary voucher make this card more lucrative. Since it is a free debit card, there is no downside to getting it.
Keep in mind that its offline usage is minimal at present. Having it as a secondary card in addition to your primary card can help maximize savings on your online shopping. Go for it if you frequently shop on TataCliQ.
Faizan Ahmad is a financial analyst and writer who specializes in investments, banking, and corporate finance. He has over 7 years of experience working in the finance industry in various roles.
He leverages his strong financial modeling and data analysis skills to provide insightful commentary on business, markets, and economic trends.
At Ventures Money, Faizan covers topics including Credit Card Reviews, Loans, Insurance, and Mutual Funds in the banking sector. He provides in-depth analysis of the latest news and trends to help readers make smart investment decisions.
Outside of writing, Faizan enjoys following the stock market, rooting for his favorite sports teams, and spending time with his family.