BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard Review

The basics

• High return. Get 5 BMO Rewards points per $1 spent on eligible travel purchases, 3 points per $1 spent on eligible dining and entertainment purchases, and 1 point per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases.
• Welcome bonus. Get up to 90,000 points and get the $150 annual fee waived by your first anniversary.
• Purchase protection. Protect the items you buy on your card with extended warranty and insurance coverage.
• Travel insurance. Cash in on travel medical insurance and get access to trip interruption, trip cancellation, flight delay and baggage insurance.
• Discounts. Get 15% off admission to Cirque du Soleil shows touring Canada, and 20% off resident shows in Las Vegas.

The perks

• Car rental insurance. Get complimentary Collision Damage Waiver benefits (MSRP of up to $65,000).

• Digital services perks. Get benefits and offers for digital everyday services from a variety of on-demand apps and subscription services.
• Access WiFi worldwide. Access over 1 million WiFi hotspots around the world at no added cost, with no added fees or roaming charges.
• Mastercard rewards. Unlock Mastercard Travel Rewards cashback offers when you travel and shop outside of Canada.
• Zero liability coverage. Rest easy knowing you’re protected against fraudulent charges on your account.
• Enhanced security. Use your Mastercard SecureCode to protect your purchases online.
• Optional benefits. Pay more for roadside assistance, balance protection or credit card alerts.

What to watch out for

• High annual fee. The annual fee for this card is $150. Annual fee waived in the first year.
• Fee for additional cards. There’s a $50 fee for additional cardholders.
• Difficult to qualify. The minimum income to get approved for this card is $80,000.

BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard interest rates

What should I know before I apply

• Eligibility requirements

  To apply for a BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard, you will need to meet the following criteria:

  • Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is at least 18 years old (19 in some provinces)
  • Have a minimum annual income of $80,000 or a household income of $150,000

• You will also need to provide the following documents and information:

  • Your name, residential status and contact information.
  • Your social insurance number and date of birth.
  • Your email address and phone number.

How to apply

1. Click Go to site to be directed to your BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard application.
2. Read through the Disclosure Statement details and click Accept & Continue.
3. Complete the application with details that include your name, email address, social insurance number and birth date.
4. Review and submit your application.

Bottom line

The BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard is a good fit for frequent flyers who spend a decent amount on travel, dining and entertainment. This card comes with a welcome offer, comprehensive travel insurance and other perks like car rental insurance and airport lounge access.

Frequently asked questions about the BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard

• Does the BMO Ascend World Elite MasterCard have a welcome offer?

  Yes, depending on when you signup. Get up to 90,000 points and get the $150 annual fee waived by your first anniversary.

• Will my BMO points expire?

  No, your points will continue to hold value as long as your account is active and in good standing.

• Can I apply online?

  Yes, you can apply online. Just go to the BMO website or click “Go to Site” in the table above to be redirected to the application.

Pictures: bmo.com/ca