Using your card
How it works
Four steps, about five minutes, and you’re saving all over Essex.
- Step 1
Choose your membership
Pick Monthly (£2.49), Yearly (£24.99) or Duo (£44.99/year for two). Pay securely by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay, and tell us where to post your card — or collect it from us on Canvey Island.
- Step 2
Get your cards
Your physical Essex Card is posted to you. Your digital card is ready straight away — add your photo so businesses know it’s you.
- Step 3
Find somewhere to save
Browse the directory or map. Each listing shows the exact offer — and any member code for online shops.
- Step 4
Show it before you pay
Hand over your Essex Card at the till. Forgotten it? Open My Card on your phone instead — the live clock proves it’s not a screenshot.
Sam Taylor
EC10427
Example member card
For businesses: checking a digital card
Real digital cards move.
Members carry a physical Essex Card, and can show the digital one on their phone if they’ve left it at home.
- A green “Active member” light pulses on valid cards.
- A shine sweeps across the card and the clock shows the current time.
- The photo and name should match the person in front of you.
- A red “Suspended” status means the offer shouldn’t be applied.
Good to know
How do I use my Essex Card?
Show your Essex Card at any participating business before you pay and they’ll apply the offer shown on their listing. You get a physical card in the post and a digital card in your account on this website — either one works.
When will my physical card arrive?
We post cards out as quickly as we can after you join, and email you when yours is on its way. It usually arrives within a few working days. Your digital card works straight away, so you can start saving before it lands. Prefer to pick it up? Choose collection when you join and collect it from 12-14 Oak Road, Canvey Island, Essex, SS8 7AX — we’ll email you when it’s ready.
I’ve forgotten or lost my card — what now?
No problem. Log in on your phone and show your digital card instead. If your card is lost or damaged, you can order a replacement from your account for £5, including postage.
Which businesses take the card?
Every business in our directory is an independent Essex business — no supermarkets, franchises, chains or corporations. Browse by category, town or on the map.
What is the Duo plan?
Duo is £44.99 a year for two people. The account holder pays, then adds a second person from their account. We post two physical cards, and each of you gets your own digital card with your name and photo.
Can I cancel?
Yes, any time from your account. Your card stays active until the end of the period you’ve paid for, and you won’t be charged again. We’ll ask you to cut up your physical card and send us a photo (or let us know if it’s lost).
What happens if a payment fails?
Your card is paused until the payment goes through, then it switches straight back on. You can update your card details from your account.
Some offers need a discount code — where is it?
Online businesses sometimes use a code instead of an in-store card check. Codes are shown on the business’s page when you’re logged in as an active member.