What is the Uber fuel card and how does it work? Is it a debit card, credit card or something in between? The Uber fuel card can be a good option for some drivers, but there are some things to be aware of and consider, based on where you live, before you sign up for the Uber fuel card. Today, RSG contributor Will Preston covers what the Uber fuel card is, how it works, and what you need to know about gas stations before signing up. 

Uber considers its Partner Fuel Card part of its reward program, but is it actually a reward? Can you actually save money on gas with the fuel card, or are there better strategies to save?  The short answers to those questions are maybe and probably. But it still might help you.

The fuel card is a charge card that is automatically paid once a week via your Uber balance. It’s not a credit card, as you are not allowed to carry a balance past a week. It’s not a debit card, as the money is not automatically debited from a checking account. In fact, it takes several days for a charge to actually appear on your account. So the most appropriate term to call it is a charge card, like an American Express card that must be paid off every month.

You’re given a weekly credit limit based on your Uber driving habits. For example, my limit was $100 given how much I drive. The balance is deducted from your weekly earnings each week. It allows you to save up to 15% on gas purchases at participating gas stations, and at least 1.5% when buying gas anywhere where MasterCard is accepted, although I did have issues using it in some places.The card only works at gas stations.  You can use it to pay for anything they sell there.  The only thing Uber is checking is that the purchase is coming from a gas station.  Just remember you have a limit each week to how much you can charge on it.

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