While at Office Depot today I saw this sign about an instant discount on the purchase of MasterCard gift cards this week that is even better than the the current Staples easy rebate offer on Visa gift cards. Here are the details:

•  $15 off when you buy $300 or more of MasterCard Gift Cards
•  Valid 9/4/16-9/10/16
•  In store only
•  Discount applied at register
•  Limit 2 offers per household/business

Unlike Staples gift card deals, there is no mail in rebate and the $15 is automatically deducted from the register.  While these gift cards have a fee, the $15 discount will make the gift card purchase fee free and earn some extra money. There is a limit of 2 offers per household/business but if you want to take advantage of this discount multiple times, try going to a different cashier, returning to the store multiple times or a different store.

To minimize fees it would be best to buy the highest denomination gift cards you can find.  The register will let you purchase $600 worth of MasterCards and use both $15 discounts at the same time. I just came back from Office Depot and I bought the 3 of the $200 MasterCard gift cards issued by U.S. Bank for a fee of $6.95.  I paid $590.85 for 3 of the $200 MasterCard gift cards worth $600.

How many points you earn depends on the credit card you use. The best cards to use those that earn 5% in office supply stores (such as the Ink Business Cash which earns 5X Ultimate Rewards) but you come ahead even if you use another credit card.

If using an Amex card, check your Amex offers for $20 off an $100 or more purchase at Office Depot/OfficeMax.

This is a great opportunity to purchase tons of gift cards without paying a fee.