The TymeBank Credit Card, often referred to as the TymeBank “Shopper” card, allows customers to earn double Smart Shopper points at Pick’n Pay.
Food budgets remain tight for many South African households, making rewards-driven credit cards increasingly appealing.
This guide explains how the card works, how to apply, what the fees look like, and which details to check before you sign up.
What Is the TymeBank Shopper Credit Card?
TymeBank is a fully licensed, digital-only South African bank. Its credit card is issued in partnership with RCS, a registered credit provider.
The Visa card can be used locally and internationally for both in-store and online purchases.
Because of TymeBank’s partnership with Pick’n Pay, cardholders can earn Smart Shopper points on all spending.
Also, extra rewards on Pick’n Pay purchases.
Key Features and Benefits
The TymeBank credit card includes various key advantages for shoppers.
- Visa functionality: Accepted locally and abroad for tap-and-go and online payments.
- Up to 55 days of interest-free credit when the full balance is paid on time each month.
- Smart Shopper integration allows customers to earn loyalty points automatically.
- Double Smart Shopper points at Pick n Pay when swiping both the Smart Shopper card and the TymeBank credit card.
- Additional cards: Up to three secondary cards can be issued to family members.
- Fully digital management, including applications and card control via the TymeBank app.
How Double Smart Shopper Points Work
Pick’n Pay’s Smart Shopper programme awards points for in-store spending.
When paying with a TymeBank Visa Credit Card, customers receive double points, provided they also swipe their Smart Shopper card.
Historically, this has meant boosting the usual rewards rate—effectively earning points faster on eligible purchases.
Customers should always check the most current Smart Shopper terms, as loyalty programme rules can change.
Interest Rates and Fees
TymeBank and RCS personalise credit card interest rates according to each applicant’s credit profile, in line with the National Credit Act.
Rates cannot exceed NCA maximums and may vary depending on affordability assessments.
- Interest rate: Around 18% per year on outstanding balances (variable according to credit profile).
- Initiation fee: Approximately R160 once-off.
- Monthly service fee: Approximately R60 per month.
- Interest-free period: Up to 55 days if the full monthly balance is paid on time.
These figures provide a general guideline, but customers must always check the latest TymeBank pricing guide and the pre-agreement quotation.
How to Apply for the TymeBank Credit Card
To qualify for the TymeBank Visa Credit Card, applicants generally must earn at least R3 000 per month and have a valid South African ID
Hold a South African bank account for debit-order repayments, and a credit check and assessment are required by the National Credit Act.
Applicants are typically required to provide supporting documentation such as recent payslips or bank statements and proof of address.
TymeBank’s application process is designed to be fully digital, and most customers complete it online or through the app.
1. Create or Log In to a TymeBank Profile
If you are not yet a TymeBank customer, you can open an account online, in the app, or at TymeBank kiosks located in Pick’n Pay and Boxer stores.
2. Start the Application
You can begin the credit card application through the TymeBank app or the dedicated online application portal.
3. Provide Personal and Financial Details
You will need to enter your identification information, income details, employment status, and consent to a credit check.
4. Upload Required Documentation
Applicants must upload a valid ID, proof of income, proof of address (within 3 months), and bank account details for debit orders.
5. Approval and Delivery
If approved, your TymeBank Visa Credit Card will be delivered via courier.
Once activated, it can be used for purchases and Smart Shopper double-points rewards immediately.
Pros vs Cons
Here’s a pros vs cons for the TymeBank Shopper (Visa) credit card. It summarises its main advantages and potential drawbacks.
| ✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons |
|---|---|
| Interest-free period of up to 55 days, if the full balance is paid on time monthly — useful for managing cash flow. | If you don’t pay in full, interest applies — and the interest rate may be relatively high compared to paying on time. |
| Integration with Smart Shopper: you earn loyalty points on purchases — and get double points when shopping at Pick n Pay while using the card. | The rewards program is not particularly broad by global-credit-card standards: benefits mainly relate to Smart Shopper / Pick n Pay shopping, not extras like travel rewards, airline miles, or premium perks. |
| Visa-backed — accepted widely in South Africa and internationally, enabling online and overseas spending. | As a mostly digital / branchless bank, physical customer-service options and in-person support may be limited. |
| Low account and usage fees compared with many traditional credit cards — potentially a lower-cost option for many customers. | Customer-service complaints are common: some users report issues with support, delays, or difficulties resolving account problems or disputes. |
| Application process is digital and relatively accessible: minimal income requirement (for eligible applicants), and application via app or online. | Credit limit may be modest (depending on income and creditworthiness); this may limit the card’s usefulness for larger purchases. |
Contact Information and Bank Address
Customer Care Phone: 0860 999 119
Lost/Stolen Card Line: 0860 999 118
Email: service@tymebank.co.za
TymeBank’s head office is listed at 30 Jellicoe Avenue, 2nd Floor, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Conclusion
The TymeBank Shopper Credit Card combines accessible digital banking with valuable grocery rewards.
For regular Pick’n Pay shoppers, the ability to earn double Smart Shopper points makes this card particularly beneficial.
Used responsibly, this card can offer both everyday convenience and long-term savings.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice or a credit offer. Interest rates, fees, eligibility requirements, and reward structures can change at any time. Customers should always review the latest TymeBank credit card terms, pricing guide, and Smart Shopper programme rules, and consider consulting a qualified financial adviser before taking on new credit.
