Even in the age of rideshare apps, traditional taxis remain a dependable mode of transportation—especially in busy urban centers, airports, and cities where regulation keeps fares competitive. But many riders don’t realize they can still earn points and cashback on taxi rides, just like they do with flights, hotels, or retail purchases. With the right combination of payment methods, apps, and tracking tools, every cab ride becomes a chance to earn something back.
Use a Rewards Credit Card for Every Ride
The first and easiest way to earn points is by using a rewards-earning credit card to pay for your taxi fare. Many cards offer bonus categories for travel or transit spending, which may include taxis. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, American Express Green Card, and Capital One Venture Rewards frequently offer between 2x to 3x points per dollar on eligible transportation purchases.
To maximize this:
- Check your credit card issuer’s travel or transportation category definitions.
- Use a contactless card or add it to your Apple Pay or Google Pay wallet for secure, fast payment.
- Save all receipts in case your issuer requires documentation for bonus points.
Add a Cashback Layer with Digital Gift Cards
If your local taxi service accepts card payments, you can go one step further by using a cashback platform like Fluz to purchase digital gift cards or virtual cards for payment. You’ll earn cashback instantly when you buy the card, and you can still use your credit card to fund the purchase—earning both cashback and points on the same ride.
For example, if your taxi provider works through a major platform, you can:
- Earn cashback with an Uber gift card
- Get rewards with a Lyft gift card
- Earn cashback with a BP virtual card if you’re responsible for refueling a rental cab or working in a driver-owned service
- Get rewards with a Shell virtual card when applicable for gas-related taxi expenses
These gift cards can be used through the associated apps or added to your digital wallet for direct payment at the terminal.
Track Your Expenses and Miles for Tax Benefits
For freelancers, gig workers, and anyone self-employed, taxi rides used for business purposes may qualify for tax deductions. But you’ll need accurate records, including receipts, mileage, and payment method.
Use apps like:
- TripLog – Automatically logs your mileage and expenses
- Expensify – Snap receipts, tag them for reimbursement or taxes
- Zoho Expense – Ideal for small business travel tracking
The IRS Transportation Guidelines clarify what qualifies as deductible travel, including taxis used for work, client meetings, or medical appointments.
Look for Local Loyalty Programs
While rare, some independent taxi companies offer loyalty cards, punch programs, or ride credits for frequent passengers. These are more common in smaller cities or regions with privately operated cab companies.
Examples include:
- Ride 10 get 1 free offers
- Prepaid ride credits at a discount
- Monthly or weekly commuter packages
These loyalty rewards may not always be advertised online, so it’s worth asking dispatch or your driver directly.
Combine Cashback with Receipts for Bonus Savings
After you complete your ride and pay using a Fluz gift card or rewards credit card, save your receipt. Some apps like Ibotta and Receipt Hog accept manual receipt uploads for additional points or cashback. Just scan the receipt through the app and keep it for your records.
Final Thoughts
Earning points and cashback on traditional taxi rides isn’t just possible—it’s easy when you use the right combination of tools. From credit card rewards to earning cashback with a Lyft gift card, you can make every ride more rewarding. Start with Fluz here and turn your everyday taxi expenses into bonus savings.
