Kroger Discontinues Specific Gas Discounts Amidst Rising Fuel Costs
U.S. Bank transitions Kroger Mastercard holders to Smartly Visa, altering existing fuel reward structures.
1End of Mastercard Benefits
Kroger is ending specific fuel discount benefits previously tied to the World Elite Mastercard. Cardholders formerly enjoyed an extra 5 cents off per gallon at participating locations. New members also benefited from a 55-cent discount during their first year. These specific promotional advantages are now being phased out for all existing users.
2U.S. Bank Account Transition
U.S. Bank announced on July 29, 2026, that Kroger cardholders will transition to the U.S. Bank Smartly Visa. There is no blanket expiration date for these benefits; instead, the 5-cent discount terminates individually when each user's account is converted. If an account is closed during this transition, the fuel discount ends immediately.
3Impact of Rising Prices
The removal of these fuel discounts occurs as national gas prices reach $4.34 per gallon. This current average represents a significant increase of $1.25 per gallon compared to the same period in 2025. Consequently, the loss of these specific savings mechanisms directly impacts the overall monthly fuel expenditure for many affected drivers.
4New Partnership Strategy
While the U.S. Bank partnership concludes, Kroger is maintaining a branded card presence through a new collaboration with First Bank Trust and Imprint. This separate card offering allows members to earn fuel reward points on qualifying purchases. This initiative operates independently from the mandatory transition of existing customers to the Smartly Visa.
5Smartly Visa Reward Structure
The new Smartly Visa features a different reward model compared to the previous Mastercard. Users receive 2% cash back on eligible purchases, with potential earnings up to 4% on the first $10,000 per billing cycle. The card carries no annual fee and offers a 0% introductory APR for the first year on purchases.
6Kroger Boost Membership Status
Customers who hold a Kroger Boost membership linked to their previous Mastercard will retain their status. These benefits remain active until the specific membership term expires. Users should monitor their account status closely, as U.S. Bank has already begun contacting some cardholders regarding the specific details of their individual account conversion process.
7Core Fuel Rewards Program
Beyond credit card perks, Kroger continues its standard fuel rewards program. Customers earn points through qualifying store purchases, which can be redeemed for 10 cents off per gallon for every 100 points accumulated. Depending on the specific location, members can potentially save up to $1 off per gallon on 35 gallons per visit.
8Strategic Financial Implications
This transition highlights the volatility of retail-linked financial products during periods of economic pressure. By shifting from a legacy Mastercard to a new Visa structure, Kroger is recalibrating its loyalty incentives. Customers must now navigate new reward tiers while managing the loss of legacy fuel discounts in a high-cost energy environment.
Original article: SlashGear — Kroger Discontinues Specific Gas Discounts Amidst Rising Fuel Costs