First National Bank (FNB) has unveiled some long-awaited and major changes for its reward scheme, eBucks, all of which serve to improve the customer experience. Up first is the launch of eBucks PayDay, which will now see all customers receive their eBucks on the same day every month — on the 15th — rather than some random date.

Next, beginning in November, the bank will roll out much-needed changes to travel rewards for eBucks, and “address some of the points of frustration customers have raised in the past.” That includes eBucks customers enjoying discounts on the ‘full fare’ for domestic plane tickets, including taxes, as well as their luggage fees.

eBuck up your ideas

eBucks PayDay will kick in on 15 October 2025 for all, meaning you’ll have to wait a little longer this month if you’re used to receiving your eBucks earlier. The idea is to help customers plan out their rewards with a mid-month’ breather, despite some growing pains in the early stages.

“eBucks has always been about working with our valued customers to help them in their daily lives and to reward them for their loyalty to FNB. This mid-month ‘PayDay’ will create a predictable schedule for receiving rewards, making planning simpler and easier,” said FNB eBucks CEO, Pieter Woodhatch.

While the bank is changing how rewards are calculated for domestic plane tickets, it will also introduce a tiered system for customers to earn more or fewer travel rewards depending on their standing with the bank.

The ‘Core programme’ will offer 20% off the full ticket price — with up to 40% off if you hold comprehensive motor insurance. Customers after an 80% discount must first hold “a full suite of Short-Term Comprehensive insurance products or a minimum short-term insurance premium of R5,000 a month,” the bank said.

For Commercial customers, the 20% discount will be mirrored, and a 40% discount can be earned when holding “FNB Business Motor or Property cover and at least one additional qualifying comprehensive Business policy.”