The base formula
Every cashback calculator starts the same way: monthly card spend times the cashback rate times twelve. At 40,000 euro a month and 1 percent that is 4,800 euro a year. Without a cap, that is the real figure.
What a cap does to the maths
Many cards limit cashback per month. With a 15 euro monthly cap you earn at most 180 euro a year, no matter how much you spend. Always take the lower of the percentage result and the cap, per month.
Tiered cashback
Some providers use tiers where the rate rises or falls per spend band. Calculate per band and add the results. A single blended rate gives a distorted picture.
The crossover point
The crossover point is the monthly volume at which a card with a fee and a higher rate overtakes a free card. Divide the annual fee by the difference in rates to find it. Below that volume the free card wins.
Do not ignore non-cashback value
Automatic receipt capture, accounting integrations and automated handling of ad invoices often deliver more than the cashback rate itself. Convert that time saving into euro and add it to your cashback.
Have it calculated for you
Start the scan and enter your own volumes. The full report with every calculation and your personal match is a one-time 29 euro payment.