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HDFC Freedom Card card art

HDFC Freedom Card

An entry-level card for first-time cardholders — a low, easily-waived ₹500 annual fee and strong 10X accelerated rewards on a handful of popular apps, but a low 1 CashPoint/₹150 base rate elsewhere and an above-average forex markup.

Rates and fees last verified 19 July 2026.

Annual fee

₹500

Joining fee

₹500

Reward type

cashback

Base reward rate

0.67%

Card network

Visa

Card tier

Entry

Reward rates by category

  • Other6.67% (capped ₹3,750/monthly)

Eligibility

  • Minimum credit score: 650
  • Minimum monthly income: ₹12,000
  • Employment: salaried, self-employed
  • Age: 2160

Benefits

  • 1% fuel surcharge waiver on transactions of ₹400–₹5,000, capped at ₹250/statement cycle
  • 10X CashPoints (10 CashPoints per ₹150) on BigBasket, BookMyShow, OYO, Swiggy and Uber, capped at 2,500 bonus points/month
  • 5X CashPoints on EMI spends at merchant locations
  • Up to 15% discount at partner restaurants via Dineout

Pros

  • + Low, easily-waived annual fee (₹50,000 spend or ₹500 renewal)
  • + 10X CashPoints on BigBasket, Swiggy, Uber, OYO, BookMyShow
  • + Accessible income eligibility for first-time applicants

Cons

  • Low 0.67% base reward rate outside bonus categories
  • Above-average 3.5% forex markup

Applying takes you to HDFC Bank's site. We may earn a commission if you're approved — see our disclaimer. Final terms and approval are solely at the issuer's discretion.