How to Earn Free Cash Back on Property Tax, Tuition & Bills You Can't Normally Pay by Credit Card (Canadian Tire Triangle Mastercard Hack)

Most Canadians miss out on hundreds of dollars in free cash back every year simply because they're paying their biggest bills the traditional way. Property taxes, utility bills, tuition fees—these expenses often represent thousands of dollars that slip through your fingers without earning a single reward point.

What if I told you there's a completely legal way to earn 1% cash back on bills that normally don't accept credit card payments? And better yet, this method doesn't charge the recipient any extra fees, gives you more time to pay, and comes with a credit card that has zero annual fees?

Welcome to one of Canada's best-kept financial secrets: using the Canadian Tire Triangle Mastercard to pay bills through their unique payment system. This isn't a gimmick or a temporary loophole—it's a legitimate feature that savvy Canadians have been using for years to put hundreds of dollars back in their pockets annually.

What Is the Canadian Tire Triangle Mastercard?

The Canadian Tire Triangle Mastercard is a no-annual-fee credit card offered by Canadian Tire, one of Canada's most recognizable retailers. But don't let the name fool you—this card offers far more than just rewards at Canadian Tire stores.

The Canadian Tire Triangle Mastercard comes in two options:

1. Triangle Mastercard (Standard): Triangle Mastercard: Earns 0.5% in Canadian Tire Money on all purchases everywhere—the foundational option with no annual fee purchases everywhere
2. Triangle World Elite Mastercard: Earns 1% in Canadian Tire Money on all purchases everywhere, plus enhanced rewards at Canadian Tire stores (4%) and grocery stores (3%). Requires $80,000 annual income or $150,000 household income and includes travel insurance

Both cards are completely free with no annual fees. This makes them ideal for this bill-payment strategy since you're not paying for the privilege of earning rewards.

Card Comparison Table

Here's a quick comparison of both Triangle Mastercard options to help you decide which is right for you:

For the purposes of bill payments, if you qualify for the Triangle World Elite Mastercard, it offers double the rewards (1% vs 0.5%) which can make a significant difference on large bills like property taxes.

The Unique Bill Payment Feature

What sets the Triangle Mastercard apart from virtually every other credit card in Canada is its integrated bill payment service. Through the Canadian Tire Triangle app or online banking portal, cardholders can pay a wide variety of bills directly using their credit card—but here's the genius part: the payment is processed through an EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) method on the recipient's end.

Learn more about bill payments on your Triangle Mastercard.

This means:

• The biller receives payment as ifit came from a regular bank account
• They don't see it as a credit card payment

It's essentially the best of both worlds: you get credit card rewards and payment flexibility, while the biller receives a standard electronic payment.

What Bills Can You Pay?

This is where things get really interesting. The Triangle Mastercard bill payment system supports an incredibly wide range of billers across Canada. While we'll provide a comprehensive searchable list of all supported billers at the end of this article, here are the major categories and some highlights:

Property Taxes

This is the big one. Property taxes represent one of the largest expenses for Canadian homeowners, often running into thousands of dollars annually. In Toronto alone, the average property tax bill is around $4,000-$6,000 per year. At 1% cash back, that's $40-$60 back in your pocket just for paying a bill you'd pay anyway.

Major municipalities supported include:

• City of Toronto
• Mississauga
• Brampton
• Ottawa
• Many other Ontario municipalities
• Select municipalities in other provinces

Utility Bills

Utility companies across Canada aresupported, including:

• Toronto Hydro
• Enbridge Gas
• Various provincial hydro companies
• Water and wastewater services
• Natural gas providers

While individual monthly utility bills might only yield $1-3 in rewards, over a full year this can add up to $50-100 in cash back.

Tuition Fees

This is potentially the biggest single-transaction reward opportunity. The Triangle Mastercard bill payment system supports tuition payments for over 30 Canadian colleges and universities.

If you're paying $10,000 in tuition annually, that's $100 back in Canadian Tire Money. For families with multiple children in post-secondary education, the rewards can easily exceed $200-300 per year.

Supported institutions include many major universities and colleges across Canada. Check the biller list to see if your school is included.

Other Supported Bill Types

• Insurance premiums (select providers)
• Condo fees (some condo corporations)
• Phone and internet bills (select providers)
• Government fees and services
• And many more

The Math: How Much Can You Actually Save?

Let's run through some realistic scenarios to show you the actual dollar value of this strategy.

Scenario 1: Homeowner in Toronto

• Property tax: $5,000/year = $50 cash back
• Toronto Hydro: $1,200/year = $12 cash back
• Enbridge Gas: $1,000/year = $10 cash back
• Total: $72/year in free money

Scenario 2: Parent with University Student

• Tuition (1 semester): $6,000 = $60 cash back
• Rent through property management: $12,000/year = $120 cash back (if supported)
• Utilities: $800/year = $8 cash back
• Total: $188/year minimum

Scenario 3: Property Owner with Multiple Bills

• Property tax: $4,500 = $45 cash back
• Utilities (all types): $3,000/year = $30 cash back
• Condo fees: $4,800/year = $48 cash back
• Insurance: $2,000/year = $20 cash back
• Total: $143/year

These aren't theoretical numbers—these are real savings that thousands of Canadians are earning right now. And remember, this is money you're earning on bills you'd be paying anyway, with a credit card that costs you nothing to hold.

The Key Benefits Beyond Cash Back

1. Extended Payment Time

When you pay a bill with your Triangle Mastercard, you're not actually paying it immediately from your bank account. You're putting it on your credit card, which means you have until your credit card payment due date (typically 21 days after your statement closes) to actually pay.

This can provide valuable cash flow flexibility, especially for large bills like property taxes. Just be sure to pay your credit card bill in full and on time—carrying a balance at credit card interest rates (typically 19.99%) would completely negate any rewards you earn.

2. No Extra Fees for the Biller or You

This is crucial. Because the payment is processed as an EFT on the recipient's end, they don't get charged the 2-3% merchant fees that typically come with credit card payments. This means:

• Organizations that normally don't accept credit cards (like most municipalities) can receive your payment without issue
• You don't get hit with "convenience fees" or "processing fees"
• The transaction is completely transparent to the biller

3. Consolidated Bill Management

Instead of managing multiple biller accounts, payment dates, and bank transfers, you can manage many of your bills through one interface: the Triangle app or website. This simplification alone has value beyond the cash back.

4. Purchase Protection and Record Keeping

When you pay through your credit card, you automatically get:

• A clear transaction record on your credit card statement
• Easier tracking for tax purposes (especially relevant for property taxes or business-related bills)
• The fraud protection that comes with all credit card transactions

5. Premium Card Benefits

If you qualify for the Triangle World Elite Mastercard (Premium), you also get complimentary roadside assistance. This typically costs $100-150/year from CAA or similar providers, making it an exceptional value on a no-annual-fee card.

We're not aware of any other no-fee credit card in Canada that offers this benefit, making it potentially worth getting the card just for this perk alone—the bill payment rewards are just a bonus.

How to Set Up Bill Payments: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to start earning cash back on your bills? Here's exactly how to set it up. (We'll be adding screenshots for each step to make this even clearer.)

Step 1: Get a Triangle Mastercard

If you don't already have one, you'll need to apply for a Triangle Mastercard. You canapply online at the Canadian Tire Financial Services website or in-store at any Canadian Tire location.

The application process is straightforward:

• Fill out the online application form
• Provide basic personal and financial information
• Wait for approval (often instant for qualified applicants)
• Receive your card in the mail within 7-10 business days

Remember: All Triangle Mastercard versions have no annual fee, so there's no cost to getting started.

Screenshot Placeholder: Triangle Mastercard application page

Step 2: Activate Your Card and Set Up Online Access

Once you receive your card:

1. Call the activation number on the sticker attached to your card
2. Follow the prompts to activate
3. Set up your online account at trianglemastercard.com
4. Download the Triangle mobile app (available for iOS and Android)

Screenshot Placeholder: Triangle app login screen

Step 3: Navigate to the Bill Payment Section

1. Log into your Triangle app or online account
2. Look for the "Pay Bills" or "Bill Payments" option in the main menu
3. Click to access the bill payment interface

Screenshot Placeholder: Triangle app main menu showing Pay Bills option

Step 4: Search for Your Biller

1. In the bill payment section, you'll see a search function
2. Type in the name of the organization you want to pay (e.g., "City of Toronto," "Toronto Hydro")
3. Select the correct biller from the search results
4. Make sure you're selecting the right one if there are multiple similar names

Screenshot Placeholder: Biller search interface

Step 5: Add Your Account Information

For each biller, you'll need to provide:

• Your account number with that biller
• Any other required identification numbers
• Verification information (this varies by biller)

This information is usually found on your bill or account statement. The system will verify your account before allowing you to make payments.

Screenshot Placeholder: Account information entry screen

Step 6: Make Your First Payment

1. Select the biller you've added
2. Enter the payment amount
3. Choose the payment date (you can schedule payments in advance)
4. Review the details
5. Confirm the payment

The payment will be charged to your Triangle Mastercard immediately, and the biller will typically receive it within 3-5 business days.

Screenshot Placeholder: Payment confirmation screen

Step 7: Set Up Recurring Payments (Optional)

For bills that are the same amount each month, you can often set up automatic recurring payments:

• Choose the frequency (monthly, quarterly, etc.)
• Set the amount
• Specify the start date and end date (or ongoing)
• Confirm

This is particularly useful for fixed bills like condo fees or loan payments.

Important Things to Know

Payment Processing Times

While your credit card is charged immediately, the biller doesn't receive the funds instantly. Plan for:

• 3-5 business days for most billers
• Up to 7 business days for some organizations
• Always schedule payments well before the due date to avoid late fees

A good rule of thumb: schedule payments at least one week before they're due.

Payment Limits

Your ability to pay bills is limited by:

• Your available credit limit on your Triangle Mastercard
• Any daily or monthly payment limits set by the bill payment system
• The biller's own policies

For very large payments (like semi-annual property tax bills), make sure you have sufficient available credit.

The Interest Rate Warning

This strategy only makes financial sense if you pay your credit card bill in full each month. The Triangle Mastercard has a typical credit card interest rate (around 19.99% APR as of 2024).

If you carry a balance:

• You'll pay 19.99% interest on your bill payments
• This will far exceed the 1% you earned in rewards
• You'll end up losing money overall

Only use this strategy if you can afford to pay your credit card bill in full when it comes due.

Rewards Earning Details

Your Canadian Tire Money/Triangle Rewards will typically:

• Post to your account within one billing cycle
• Be available to spend at Canadian Tire, SportChek, Mark's, and other Triangle Rewards partners
• Can be redeemed in-store or online
• Don't expire as long as you use your card at least once every 12 months

Real Stories from the Personal Finance Community

This strategy isn't new—it's been discussed extensively on personal finance forums like RedFlagDeals and r/PersonalFinanceCanada. Here's what real Canadians are saying:

From a RedFlagDeals forum thread:
"I've been doing this for 3 years now. Property tax, water bill, Enbridge—everything goes on the Triangle card. Last year I earned over $150 in Canadian Tire Money basically for free. I use it for oil changes, windshield washer fluid, and other car maintenance. It's genuinely found money."

From a Reddit discussion:
"The key is treating it like a debit card. I only pay bills I already have money for, and I pay off the credit card as soon as the charge posts. The float time is nice, but the rewards are the real benefit. With two kids in university, the tuition payments alone earn me $200+ per year."

Another user notes:
"Don't forget about the timing strategy. I pay my property tax in two installments. I time them so they hit different credit card statement periods, making it easier to manage the large payments. Plus I spread out the Canadian Tire Money earnings."

Advanced Strategies

Timing Your Payments

Since you're essentially getting an interest-free loan from your credit card payment date, you can strategically time your bill payments:

1. Know your credit card statement closing date
2. Make large bill payments right after your statement closes
3. This gives you the maximum float time (up to 51 days total) before payment is due

Stacking with Other Rewards

If your biller is also part of another rewards program, you might be able to double-dip:

• Some utility companies offer their own loyalty points
• Some condo corporations provide cash-back incentives for early payment
• Check if any of your billers have their own rewards programs

Family Pooling

If you're an authorized user on a family member's Triangle Mastercard, or vice versa, you can pool rewards:

• One person handles property taxes
• Another handles tuition
• Combine the rewards for larger redemptions

Common Questions and Concerns Addressed

"Isn't this too good to be true?"

It sounds like it, but it's completely legitimate. Canadian Tire offers this feature because:

• It increases credit card usage (they earn interchange fees)
• It drives loyalty to the Triangle ecosystem
• It differentiates their card from competitors

They're not losing money on this—they're making it up through increased card usage and merchant fees on your other purchases.

"Will the biller know I paid by credit card?"

No. The EFT processing means they receive payment exactly as they would from a bank account. They have no idea you're earning rewards on the transaction.

"Can I get in trouble for this?"

Absolutely not. This is an official, advertised feature of the Triangle Mastercard. You're not exploiting a loophole or doing anything unethical—you're using the card exactly as intended.

"What if my biller isn't supported?"

Not every biller in Canada is in the system (yet). If yours isn't available:

• Check periodically—new billers are added regularly
• Consider asking your biller to join the system
• Look for alternative bills you can pay this way

"Is there a minimum or maximum payment amount?"

This varies by biller. Most have:

• Minimum: Typically $10-$25
• Maximum: Often $9,999 per transaction, but some billers have lower limits
• Check the specific biller's terms in the app

Maximizing Your Strategy: A Year-Round Calendar

To help you plan, here's when to think about different bill payments throughout the year:

January-February:

• Annual insurancerenewals
• Start-of-year property tax installments (some municipalities)

March-April:

• Spring property tax due dates
• Annual condo fee adjustments

May-June:

• Mid-year tuition payments for summer sessions
• Quarterly insurance premiums

July-August:

• Back-to-school prep: tuition deposits
• Summer utility bills (AC season = higher bills = more rewards)

September-October:

• Fall semester tuition (the big one!)
• Fall property tax installments

November-December:

• Year-end charitable donations (some charities accept this payment method)
• Winter heating bills starting

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much can I realistically earn per year?

A: It depends entirely on your bills, but most households with property taxes and utilities can easily earn $50-150 per year. If you add tuition payments, you could earn $200-300+ annually. This is passive income for bills you're paying anyway.

Q: Do I need good credit to get approved?

A: Yes, like any credit card, you'll need decent credit to qualify. The standard Triangle Mastercard has relatively accessible approval requirements. The World Elite versions require higher income thresholds ($80,000 personal or $150,000 household for the Premium version).

Q: Can I use this for business expenses?

A: If you're a business owner paying business property taxes, commercial utility bills, or other business expenses, yes—as long as the biller is in the system. The rewards are even more valuable since business expenses tend to be higher. Just make sure you're tracking everything properly for tax purposes.

Q: What happens if a payment fails?

A: If your credit card doesn't have sufficient available credit, the payment will be declined. You'll be notified and will need to make alternative payment arrangements with your biller. This is why it's crucial to ensure you have available credit before scheduling large payments.

Q: Can I pay my mortgage through this system?

A: Unfortunately, most Canadian mortgage lenders are not in the bill payment system. However, some mortgage-related expenses like property taxes (if paid separately) and mortgage insurance can sometimes be paid this way.

Q: Is the 1% reward rate worth it compared to other cards?

A: For bills that normally don't accept credit cards at all, 1% is infinitely better than 0%! That's the key here. You're not choosing between a 1% card and a 2% card—you're choosing between 1% and nothing. For your regular spending, you might use a different card with better rewards.

Q: How do I redeem my Canadian Tire Money?

A: Triangle Rewards (the digital version of Canadian Tire Money) can be redeemed at:

• Canadian Tire stores
• Sport Chek
• Mark's Work Wearhouse
• Atmosphere
• Party City
• L'Équipeur (Quebec)
• Online at any of these retailers

You can use it like cash at checkout, either by scanning your Triangle card or providing your phone number.

Q: Do the rewards expire?

A: No, as long as you use your Triangle Mastercard at least once every 12 months, your Triangle Rewards never expire. Even one small purchase per year keeps everything active.

Q: Can I have multiple Triangle Mastercards?

A: You can only have one primary Triangle Mastercard account, but you can have authorized users on your account. Rewards from all card users pool into the primary account.

Q: What if I move? Will my new municipality be supported?

A: The biller database is constantly expanding. If you move to a new area, check the bill payment system to see if your new municipality is included. Many major cities across Canada are already supported.

Q: Is there customer support if I have issues?

A: Yes, Triangle Mastercard has customer service available by phone, online chat, and through the app. They can help with bill payment questions, failed transactions, or other issues.

Q: Can I still earn rewards if I use the World Elite card?

A: Absolutely! In fact, the World Elite cards earn even higher rates at Canadian Tire banner stores (up to 5%) while still earning 1% on bill payments. If you qualify for a World Elite card, it's even better.

The Bottom Line

Using your Canadian Tire Triangle Mastercard to pay bills that don't normally accept credit cards is one of the smartest, easiest ways to earn passive rewards on your existing expenses. With no annual fee, straightforward 1% cash back, and the added benefits of payment float time and fee avoidance, this strategy should be in every Canadian's financial toolkit.

Here's your action plan:

1. Apply for a Triangle Mastercard if you don't already have one (remember: no annual fee!)
2. Set up the bill payment system following our step-by-step guide above
3. Add your biggest bills —property taxes, tuition, and utilities first
4. Schedule your payments well in advance of due dates
5. Pay your credit card bill in full every month to avoid interest charges
6. Watch the rewards accumulate throughout the year
7. Redeem your Canadian Tire Money for things you actually need

For most Canadian households, this represents $100-200+ per year in found money. That's a couple of free oil changes, a new set of winter tires every few years, sporting equipment for your kids, or any number of things you'd buy at Canadian Tire anyway.

Coming Soon: Complete Biller List

We're compiling a comprehensive, searchable database of all supported billers in the Triangle Mastercard payment system. This will include:

• All municipalities offering property tax payments
• Utility companies by province
• Educational institutions accepting tuition payments
• Insurance providers
• And many more categories

Check back soon for this complete resource, or bookmark this page and return later. We'll update this article as soon as the full list is available.

Get Started Today

Ready to start earning rewards on your bills? Visit the Canadian Tire Financial Services website to learn more about the Triangle Mastercard and apply online. Remember to choose the card that best fits your needs:

• Triangle Mastercard: Earns 0.5% on all bills and purchases—accessible to everyone with no income requirements
• Triangle World Elite Mastercard: Earns 1% on all bills and purchases, plus enhanced rewards (4% at Canadian Tire, 3% at grocery stores). Requires $80,000 personal or $150,000 household income at Triangle stores

Both options are completely free with no annual fees, making this a risk-free way to maximize your household budget.

Start earning cash back on bills you're already paying. Your future self will thank you.

Have you tried using the Triangle Mastercard for bill payments? Share your experience in the comments below! We'd love to hear which bills you're paying and how much you're earning back each year.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice. Credit card terms, rewards rates, and supported billers may change. Always verify current details with Canadian Tire Financial Services before applying. Remember to pay your credit card bill in full each month to avoid interest charges that would negate any rewards earned.

• They don't charge you any extra fees (unlike many billers who add 2-3% fees for credit card payments)
• You earn 1% back in Canadian Tire Money/Triangle Rewards
• You get the float time of your credit card billing cycle before payment is due