Cash back is easy to earn and use. Every time you make a purchase with your card, a percentage of that purchase will be returned to you in the form of rewards. That means you can get money back in your pocket for regular expenses like gas or groceries.
Cash-back credit cards wear a lot of different hats. There are flat-rate credit cards that earn the same rate no matter what you’re buying, tiered cash-back cards that earn a higher rate for specific purchases, and cash-back cards with bonus categories that change quarterly, or every three months. Here are some of the best.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
The Active Cash card is the best general credit card you could choose. Not only does it reward you for your purchases, but it also features a welcome bonus that’s easy to reach through normal spending and an introductory APR offer on purchases and qualifying balance transfers.
And all of the benefits come with no annual fee. The Active Cash card slightly outranks its main competitor, the Citi Double Cash, thanks to additional features like phone protection and access to a few Visa Signature benefits. Its lack of annual fee makes it easy to pair with a credit card that covers multiple bonus categories, too.
You can learn more in our Wells Fargo Active Cash card review.
Pros
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Easy-to-earn welcome bonus
No annual fee
Introductory APR offer on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
Up to $600 in cell phone damage or theft protection subject to a $25 deductible
Cons
No outstanding cardholder perks or statement credits
3% foreign currency conversion fee
Rewards must be redeemed in $20 or $25 increments for some redemption options
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening
- Regular APR
- 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR
- Balance Transfer Fee
- up to 5%, min: $5
The Active Cash card is the best general credit card you could choose. Not only does it reward you for your purchases, but it also features a welcome bonus that’s easy to reach through normal spending and an introductory APR offer on purchases and qualifying balance transfers.
And all of the benefits come with no annual fee. The Active Cash card slightly outranks its main competitor, the Citi Double Cash, thanks to additional features like phone protection and access to a few Visa Signature benefits. Its lack of annual fee makes it easy to pair with a credit card that covers multiple bonus categories, too.
You can learn more in our Wells Fargo Active Cash card review.
Pros
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Easy-to-earn welcome bonus
No annual fee
Introductory APR offer on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
Up to $600 in cell phone damage or theft protection subject to a $25 deductible
Cons
No outstanding cardholder perks or statement credits
3% foreign currency conversion fee
Rewards must be redeemed in $20 or $25 increments for some redemption options
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening
- Regular APR
- 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR
- Balance Transfer Fee
- up to 5%, min: $5
Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa®
The Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa card combines a personal loan with a credit card. You use your card for purchases, but at the end of the month, your balance is converted to a personal loan with a set interest rate and monthly payment.
It’s more personal loan than credit card, but it could be a good way to finance a large purchase if you don’t have time to save up for it.
You can learn more in our Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa card review.
We rate credit cards using our balance transfer / Intro APR methodology for cards whose primary feature is a promotional period where new purchases or a transferred balance will accrue no or low interest for a period of time. We rank these credit cards based on the quality of their introductory offers, fees, lasting value and standard rates. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- N/A
- Intro Purchase APR
- N/A
- Regular APR
- 14.99% – 29.99% APR
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Up to 5%
The Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa card combines a personal loan with a credit card. You use your card for purchases, but at the end of the month, your balance is converted to a personal loan with a set interest rate and monthly payment.
It’s more personal loan than credit card, but it could be a good way to finance a large purchase if you don’t have time to save up for it.
You can learn more in our Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa card review.
We rate credit cards using our balance transfer / Intro APR methodology for cards whose primary feature is a promotional period where new purchases or a transferred balance will accrue no or low interest for a period of time. We rank these credit cards based on the quality of their introductory offers, fees, lasting value and standard rates. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- N/A
- Intro Purchase APR
- N/A
- Regular APR
- 14.99% – 29.99% APR
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Up to 5%
Prime Visa
It’s nearly impossible to match the number of products Amazon offers shoppers, and its Prime Visa is almost as impressive. It’s important to note that, while it doesn’t carry an annual fee, you’ll need to subscribe to Amazon Prime ($139 annually) to qualify. Otherwise, there’s a non-Prime version.
Unlike many retailer-specific credit cards, you can also earn rewards outside of the Amazon ecosystem. The welcome bonus is also unique in that you can earn a $100 Amazon gift card upon approval -- no spending requirements necessary to unlock it.
You can learn more in our Prime Visa review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- N/A
- Intro Purchase APR
- N/A
- Regular APR
- 20.49% – 29.24% Variable
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Either $5 or 4% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
It’s nearly impossible to match the number of products Amazon offers shoppers, and its Prime Visa is almost as impressive. It’s important to note that, while it doesn’t carry an annual fee, you’ll need to subscribe to Amazon Prime ($139 annually) to qualify. Otherwise, there’s a non-Prime version.
Unlike many retailer-specific credit cards, you can also earn rewards outside of the Amazon ecosystem. The welcome bonus is also unique in that you can earn a $100 Amazon gift card upon approval -- no spending requirements necessary to unlock it.
You can learn more in our Prime Visa review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- N/A
- Intro Purchase APR
- N/A
- Regular APR
- 20.49% – 29.24% Variable
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Either $5 or 4% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
Chase Freedom Flex®
Few other cards can match the versatility of the Chase Freedom Flex**. Its rewards span across multiple different purchase categories and it offers a nice selection of additional card perks, along with an introductory APR offer.
Even some credit cards with an annual fee have a hard time matching the earning potential of the Freedom Flex. It’s only held back somewhat by its spending limit on its quarterly rotating category -- which, for July through September 2024, are electric vehicle charging, gas stations, select live entertainment and movie theaters -- but even when that limit is hit, you can still earn a good return for purchases in its other bonus categories.
Keep in mind you’ll need to activate the bonus categories manually each quarter. However, even if you activate late, you’ll earn retroactive rewards as long as you activate by the deadline.
You can read more in our Chase Freedom Flex review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers for 15 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 15 months
- Regular APR
- 20.49% – 29.24% Variable
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
Few other cards can match the versatility of the Chase Freedom Flex**. Its rewards span across multiple different purchase categories and it offers a nice selection of additional card perks, along with an introductory APR offer.
Even some credit cards with an annual fee have a hard time matching the earning potential of the Freedom Flex. It’s only held back somewhat by its spending limit on its quarterly rotating category -- which, for July through September 2024, are electric vehicle charging, gas stations, select live entertainment and movie theaters -- but even when that limit is hit, you can still earn a good return for purchases in its other bonus categories.
Keep in mind you’ll need to activate the bonus categories manually each quarter. However, even if you activate late, you’ll earn retroactive rewards as long as you activate by the deadline.
You can read more in our Chase Freedom Flex review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers for 15 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 15 months
- Regular APR
- 20.49% – 29.24% Variable
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
The U.S. Bank Cash+ offers rewards that cover some unique purchase types, including fast food, gym and fitness centers, furniture stores, movie theaters and home utilities, to name a few. You’ll need to manually activate your top two eligible categories each quarter to qualify.
You can earn a maximum of $100 each quarter before the 5% rewards rate on your two chosen categories falls to 1%, but there’s no limit to the number of rewards you can earn with its 2% cash back categories.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% intro APR Intro APR on balance transfers for the first 15 billing cycles.
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% intro APR Intro APR on purchases for the first 15 billing cycles.
- Regular APR
- 19.49% – 29.74% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Either 3% of the amount of each transfer or $5 minimum, whichever is greater.
The U.S. Bank Cash+ offers rewards that cover some unique purchase types, including fast food, gym and fitness centers, furniture stores, movie theaters and home utilities, to name a few. You’ll need to manually activate your top two eligible categories each quarter to qualify.
You can earn a maximum of $100 each quarter before the 5% rewards rate on your two chosen categories falls to 1%, but there’s no limit to the number of rewards you can earn with its 2% cash back categories.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% intro APR Intro APR on balance transfers for the first 15 billing cycles.
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% intro APR Intro APR on purchases for the first 15 billing cycles.
- Regular APR
- 19.49% – 29.74% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Either 3% of the amount of each transfer or $5 minimum, whichever is greater.
Citi Double Cash® Card
While it may fall a bit short compared to the Active Cash card, the Citi Double Cash is still a strong contender. And if you need to eliminate some existing credit card debt it’ll be the better option.
It earns rewards for all purchases, offers a welcome bonus, has no annual fee and features a relatively long introductory 0% APR for balance transfers. Cardholders get 18 months (then 19.24% to 29.24% variable) to pay off a transferred balance; balance transfers must be completed within four months of account opening. While those are compelling reasons to get the card, it doesn’t offer much else outside of them.
You could use it to knock out existing credit card debt by transferring your balance and paying it down while it accrues no interest and then continue to use it to earn rewards afterwards.
You can find all the details in our Citi Double Cash card review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% intro for 18 months on Balance Transfers
- Intro Purchase APR
- N/A
- Regular APR
- 19.24% – 29.24% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. A balance transfer fee of 5% of each transfer ($5 minimum) applies if completed after 4 months of account opening.
While it may fall a bit short compared to the Active Cash card, the Citi Double Cash is still a strong contender. And if you need to eliminate some existing credit card debt it’ll be the better option.
It earns rewards for all purchases, offers a welcome bonus, has no annual fee and features a relatively long introductory 0% APR for balance transfers. Cardholders get 18 months (then 19.24% to 29.24% variable) to pay off a transferred balance; balance transfers must be completed within four months of account opening. While those are compelling reasons to get the card, it doesn’t offer much else outside of them.
You could use it to knock out existing credit card debt by transferring your balance and paying it down while it accrues no interest and then continue to use it to earn rewards afterwards.
You can find all the details in our Citi Double Cash card review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% intro for 18 months on Balance Transfers
- Intro Purchase APR
- N/A
- Regular APR
- 19.24% – 29.24% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. A balance transfer fee of 5% of each transfer ($5 minimum) applies if completed after 4 months of account opening.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred is one of, if not the most, rewarding credit cards when it comes to U.S. supermarket purchases and select U.S. streaming subscriptions. While it does carry an annual fee of $95 ($0 intro annual fee for the first year), its high rewards rate makes it easy to quickly cover the fee.
It would take just $1,600 in U.S. supermarket spending each year (roughly $133 per month) to essentially cover its annual fee, without taking into account any rewards generated from its other bonus categories. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit. Most people spend far more than that each year on groceries, especially considering how much food prices have increased over the past year.
Learn more about earning rewards on essential purchases in our American Express Blue Cash Preferred review.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% on balance transfers for 12 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% on purchases for 12 months
- Regular APR
- 19.24% – 29.99% Variable
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
The Blue Cash Preferred is one of, if not the most, rewarding credit cards when it comes to U.S. supermarket purchases and select U.S. streaming subscriptions. While it does carry an annual fee of $95 ($0 intro annual fee for the first year), its high rewards rate makes it easy to quickly cover the fee.
It would take just $1,600 in U.S. supermarket spending each year (roughly $133 per month) to essentially cover its annual fee, without taking into account any rewards generated from its other bonus categories. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit. Most people spend far more than that each year on groceries, especially considering how much food prices have increased over the past year.
Learn more about earning rewards on essential purchases in our American Express Blue Cash Preferred review.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% on balance transfers for 12 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% on purchases for 12 months
- Regular APR
- 19.24% – 29.99% Variable
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a great dining companion for travelers. It combines a strong base rewards rate with an introductory APR offer and high travel rewards when you book through Chase Travel℠. It also lacks an annual fee -- a welcome surprise for a card with these features.
It’s straightforward and rewarding. If you don’t already have a card that earns 1.5% cash back for general spending, this card has you covered.
You can read more about it in our Chase Freedom Unlimited Review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers for 15 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 15 months
- Regular APR
- 20.49% – 29.24% Variable
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a great dining companion for travelers. It combines a strong base rewards rate with an introductory APR offer and high travel rewards when you book through Chase Travel℠. It also lacks an annual fee -- a welcome surprise for a card with these features.
It’s straightforward and rewarding. If you don’t already have a card that earns 1.5% cash back for general spending, this card has you covered.
You can read more about it in our Chase Freedom Unlimited Review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers for 15 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 15 months
- Regular APR
- 20.49% – 29.24% Variable
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
Citi Custom Cash® Card
The Citi Custom Cash Card* has more flexibility than the average rewards card. Each billing cycle, cardholders earn 5% cash back (on the first $500 spent each billing cycle, then 1%) on their top eligible spend category. Eligible categories include restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, select travel, select transit, select streaming services, drugstores, home improvement stores, fitness clubs and live entertainment.
It includes some rare categories -- namely fitness clubs, home improvement stores and live entertainment -- that most other cards don’t. And while 5% cash back sounds like a lot, it has a pretty low spending cap. You can only earn $25 in rewards each billing cycle before the rate falls to 1%.
You can learn more about it in our Citi Custom Cash Card review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% for 15 months on balance transfers
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% for 15 months on purchases
- Regular APR
- 19.24% – 29.24% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Balance transfer fee applies with this offer 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.
The Citi Custom Cash Card* has more flexibility than the average rewards card. Each billing cycle, cardholders earn 5% cash back (on the first $500 spent each billing cycle, then 1%) on their top eligible spend category. Eligible categories include restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, select travel, select transit, select streaming services, drugstores, home improvement stores, fitness clubs and live entertainment.
It includes some rare categories -- namely fitness clubs, home improvement stores and live entertainment -- that most other cards don’t. And while 5% cash back sounds like a lot, it has a pretty low spending cap. You can only earn $25 in rewards each billing cycle before the rate falls to 1%.
You can learn more about it in our Citi Custom Cash Card review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% for 15 months on balance transfers
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% for 15 months on purchases
- Regular APR
- 19.24% – 29.24% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Balance transfer fee applies with this offer 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card** offers an average cash-back rate rounded out with an introductory APR offer and an easily obtainable welcome bonus. Unlike some comparable cards, it could also double as a travel rewards card considering the lack of foreign transaction fees.
Learn more in our Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% intro on balance transfers for 15 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% intro on purchases for 15 months
- Regular APR
- 19.99% – 29.99% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- 3% for the first 15 months; 4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you at any other time
The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card** offers an average cash-back rate rounded out with an introductory APR offer and an easily obtainable welcome bonus. Unlike some comparable cards, it could also double as a travel rewards card considering the lack of foreign transaction fees.
Learn more in our Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% intro on balance transfers for 15 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% intro on purchases for 15 months
- Regular APR
- 19.99% – 29.99% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- 3% for the first 15 months; 4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you at any other time
Discover it® Cash Back
The Discover it® Cash Back** offers cardholders rewards that shift every quarter. For July through September 2024, it offers cash back for Walmart and grocery shopping. It also has one of the best welcome bonuses on the market: Discover will essentially double the cash back you earn for your first year with the card at the end of your first year.
Each quarter you’ll need to manually activate the rewards. Just be sure you do so on time, because unlike the Freedom Flex, there are no retroactive rewards to be earned here. In addition to the rewards and welcome bonus, you can use its introductory APR offer to avoid interest charges for a time.
You can read more in our Discover it Cash Back review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% for 15 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% for 15 months
- Regular APR
- 18.24% – 28.24% Variable APR
- Balance Transfer Fee
- 3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*
The Discover it® Cash Back** offers cardholders rewards that shift every quarter. For July through September 2024, it offers cash back for Walmart and grocery shopping. It also has one of the best welcome bonuses on the market: Discover will essentially double the cash back you earn for your first year with the card at the end of your first year.
Each quarter you’ll need to manually activate the rewards. Just be sure you do so on time, because unlike the Freedom Flex, there are no retroactive rewards to be earned here. In addition to the rewards and welcome bonus, you can use its introductory APR offer to avoid interest charges for a time.
You can read more in our Discover it Cash Back review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% for 15 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% for 15 months
- Regular APR
- 18.24% – 28.24% Variable APR
- Balance Transfer Fee
- 3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card* offers more flexibility than most cards, but it’s held back by a low spending cap. That means it’s better suited to lower spenders as your rewards rate will fall to 1% once you spend $2,500 in combined purchases across its bonus categories each quarter.
It offers the choice of a few unique 3% cash back categories including online shopping and home improvement/furnishings, while its 2% cash back choices cover everyday expenses like grocery stores and wholesale clubs. If your combined quarterly expenses in the 3% and 2% rewards categories aren’t greater than $2,500, this could be a good card to pick. Consider pairing it with a flat-rate, no-annual fee card like the Wells Fargo Active Cash card.
You can learn more in our Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any BTs made in the first 60 days. A fee of 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 4% will apply.
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
- Regular APR
- 19.24% – 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
- Balance Transfer Fee
- 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 4%
The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card* offers more flexibility than most cards, but it’s held back by a low spending cap. That means it’s better suited to lower spenders as your rewards rate will fall to 1% once you spend $2,500 in combined purchases across its bonus categories each quarter.
It offers the choice of a few unique 3% cash back categories including online shopping and home improvement/furnishings, while its 2% cash back choices cover everyday expenses like grocery stores and wholesale clubs. If your combined quarterly expenses in the 3% and 2% rewards categories aren’t greater than $2,500, this could be a good card to pick. Consider pairing it with a flat-rate, no-annual fee card like the Wells Fargo Active Cash card.
You can learn more in our Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any BTs made in the first 60 days. A fee of 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 4% will apply.
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
- Regular APR
- 19.24% – 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
- Balance Transfer Fee
- 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 4%
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One SavorOne** is another card that offers a ton of features without asking for an annual fee in return. Its limited-time offering of 10% cash back for Uber and Uber Eats (through Nov. 14, 2024) is far higher than what most rewards cards -- even those with an annual fee -- offer. Coupled with its 8% cash back for Capital One Entertainment, you could earn a huge return on your entertainment spending.
In addition to its high earning potential, it has an introductory APR offer to help avoid interest charges on new purchases and any transferred balances. If you’re looking for a card that rewards you whether you’re going out or staying in to watch your favorite streaming service, this is definitely one to consider.
You can learn all the details in our Capital One SavorOne review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% intro on balance transfers for 15 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% intro on purchases for 15 months
- Regular APR
- 19.99% – 29.99% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- 3% for the first 15 months; 4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you at any other time
The Capital One SavorOne** is another card that offers a ton of features without asking for an annual fee in return. Its limited-time offering of 10% cash back for Uber and Uber Eats (through Nov. 14, 2024) is far higher than what most rewards cards -- even those with an annual fee -- offer. Coupled with its 8% cash back for Capital One Entertainment, you could earn a huge return on your entertainment spending.
In addition to its high earning potential, it has an introductory APR offer to help avoid interest charges on new purchases and any transferred balances. If you’re looking for a card that rewards you whether you’re going out or staying in to watch your favorite streaming service, this is definitely one to consider.
You can learn all the details in our Capital One SavorOne review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% intro on balance transfers for 15 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% intro on purchases for 15 months
- Regular APR
- 19.99% – 29.99% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- 3% for the first 15 months; 4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you at any other time
The Alliant Cashback Visa Signature Credit Card** has a lot going for it. It’s got a potentially high cash-back rate along with a number of solid travel and shopping protections. However, you’ll need to be a Alliant Credit Union member to qualify, and you’ll want to have an Alliant High-Rate Checking account to get the most out of it.
If you have an Alliant High-Rate checking account, you can earn 2.5% cash back on the first $10,000 spent per billing cycle in qualifying eligible purchases (then 1.5%), which is more than some of what the best flat-rate cash-back cards offer. However, it is a bit more restrictive than those other cards, considering you’ll need to be an Alliant member to use it.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- N/A
- Intro Purchase APR
- N/A
- Regular APR
- 17.49% – 27.49% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- 3%
The Alliant Cashback Visa Signature Credit Card** has a lot going for it. It’s got a potentially high cash-back rate along with a number of solid travel and shopping protections. However, you’ll need to be a Alliant Credit Union member to qualify, and you’ll want to have an Alliant High-Rate Checking account to get the most out of it.
If you have an Alliant High-Rate checking account, you can earn 2.5% cash back on the first $10,000 spent per billing cycle in qualifying eligible purchases (then 1.5%), which is more than some of what the best flat-rate cash-back cards offer. However, it is a bit more restrictive than those other cards, considering you’ll need to be an Alliant member to use it.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- N/A
- Intro Purchase APR
- N/A
- Regular APR
- 17.49% – 27.49% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- 3%
Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card
The Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card* isn’t the best-in-class of any category, but as a combination its benefits become competitive. The flat-rate rewards may appeal to those seeking simplicity in their credit card, and the introductory APR is one of the longest on the market. The welcome bonus is also on par with other cash-back cards with no annual fee.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any BTs made in the first 60 days. A fee of 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 4% will apply.
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
- Regular APR
- 19.24% – 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
- Balance Transfer Fee
- 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 4%
The Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card* isn’t the best-in-class of any category, but as a combination its benefits become competitive. The flat-rate rewards may appeal to those seeking simplicity in their credit card, and the introductory APR is one of the longest on the market. The welcome bonus is also on par with other cash-back cards with no annual fee.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any BTs made in the first 60 days. A fee of 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 4% will apply.
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
- Regular APR
- 19.24% – 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
- Balance Transfer Fee
- 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 4%
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
If you’re looking for a way to earn rewards for essential purchases like U.S. gas stations and U.S. supermarkets, consider the Blue Cash Everyday Card. While everyday spending is at the forefront of the card, it also features a rare bonus category for U.S. online retail purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
It provides a higher cash-back rate than most other no-annual-fee cash-back cards and features an introductory APR for purchases and balance transfers, which provides even more utility. Earning rewards for purchases you need to make no matter what should be an easy choice to make.
You can find all the details in our Blue Cash Everyday card review.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% on balance transfers for 15 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% on Purchases for 15 months
- Regular APR
- 19.24% – 29.99% Variable
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
If you’re looking for a way to earn rewards for essential purchases like U.S. gas stations and U.S. supermarkets, consider the Blue Cash Everyday Card. While everyday spending is at the forefront of the card, it also features a rare bonus category for U.S. online retail purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
It provides a higher cash-back rate than most other no-annual-fee cash-back cards and features an introductory APR for purchases and balance transfers, which provides even more utility. Earning rewards for purchases you need to make no matter what should be an easy choice to make.
You can find all the details in our Blue Cash Everyday card review.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- 0% on balance transfers for 15 months
- Intro Purchase APR
- 0% on Purchases for 15 months
- Regular APR
- 19.24% – 29.99% Variable
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
While there is no annual fee for the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi**, you will need to be a Costco member to qualify, which costs $60 per year.
Its strongest feature is its gas rewards, as it earns much more than its competitors. However, you can only redeem rewards on an annual basis rather than the standard monthly basis -- and you may forfeit your rewards if you don’t redeem them in time.
Find all the details in our Costco Anywhere Visa Card review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- N/A
- Intro Purchase APR
- N/A
- Regular APR
- 20.49% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Balance transfer fee applies with this offer 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.
While there is no annual fee for the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi**, you will need to be a Costco member to qualify, which costs $60 per year.
Its strongest feature is its gas rewards, as it earns much more than its competitors. However, you can only redeem rewards on an annual basis rather than the standard monthly basis -- and you may forfeit your rewards if you don’t redeem them in time.
Find all the details in our Costco Anywhere Visa Card review.
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
- Intro Balance Transfer APR
- N/A
- Intro Purchase APR
- N/A
- Regular APR
- 20.49% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Balance transfer fee applies with this offer 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.
How to choose a cash-back card
When you’re choosing a cash-back credit card, the rewards rates and categories are among the most important features, along with the annual fee. These features go hand in hand somewhat, as you’ll want to see if the rewards are enough to cover the annual fee, yet still offer a profit.
Pick a card that bolsters your own spending habits, or a general rewards card that earns on purchases no matter what you’re buying. You might be able to further maximize your rewards by choosing cards that specialize in essential purchases like gas and groceries.
Also, consider any additional card perks. For example, cash-back cards can sometimes include an introductory 0% APR on new purchases to help you temporarily avoid interest charges. They also tend to include things like purchase protection or extended warranties to protect your purchases against damage or theft.
How do cash-back cards work?
Cash-back credit cards offer cardholders rewards on their spending in the form of statement credits or cash. A statement credit is a reduction in the amount due to the credit card company on your monthly bill. Note that rewards are not always available the month you earn them -- they are usually applied to your balance by credit card issuers after one or two billing cycles.
The redemption process for cash-back credit cards is either automatic or very simple. Some cards automatically apply cash rewards to your statement balance each month. Others require you to log in and redeem available rewards points for statement credits. Most points don’t expire, but you will lose them if you close the account before redeeming them.
Types of cash-back credit cards
Cash-back credit cards generally fall into four primary categories: flat-rate, tiered, rotating or choose-your-own.
- Flat-rate cards: You’ll earn the same rewards rate for all of your purchases. That rate is typically 2% cash back or 2x points per dollar.
- Tiered cards: These cards offer different rewards rates depending on how you’re using them. For example, a credit card might earn 5% cash back for groceries, but 3% for gas.
- Rotating category cards: These credit cards feature a different set of bonus categories every quarter. So, for the first three months, you might earn rewards at Amazon or Walmart, and the following three months you could earn rewards for eating out or with Target.
- Choose-your-own category cards: These offer you more choice than the other card types. You can select the types of purchases you’d like to earn rewards for.
Pros and cons of cash-back credit cards
Pros
Earn rewards on purchases
Build your credit through responsible use
Shopping and travel protections
Intro APR offers
Cons
They could encourage unnecessary spending
Interest charges should you choose to revolve a balance
Damaged credit if you don’t pay on time
Some credit cards carry annual fees
How to maximize your cash back
If you want the most value from your cash-back credit cards, follow these tips.
- Match your card to your spending habits. If you’re making purchases you otherwise wouldn’t for the sake of earning more rewards or you can’t afford to pay off your balance each month, you’ll lose the value of these rewards.
- Redeem your rewards for statement credits or direct deposits. These forms of redemption generally guarantee a value of 1 cent per 1% cash back, and are the fastest and easiest way to get value from your rewards.
- Consider pairing cards together that provide rewards for different purchases. For example, I pair my Wells Fargo Active Cash with the Blue Cash Preferred and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card to earn strong cash rewards for my most frequent purchases.
How does a cash-back card compare to travel rewards cards?
Cash-back credit cards typically earn rewards as -- you guessed it -- cash back, whereas travel credit cards tend to earn rewards as points or miles. Cash back can be used to lower your overall statement balance or to add to your bank account, while travel cards can use their points or miles to cover travel expenses.
The two types of credit cards also tend to differ in what kind of benefits they offer. Travel cards usually offer protections including things like travel accident or rental car insurance, and may even offer annual statement credits. Cash-back credit cards on the other hand will usually feature shopping protections and introductory APR offers.
Is a cash-back card right for you?
If you don’t have a credit card that rewards you for your regular everyday spending or general spending habits, consider a cash-back credit card.
If there is something you regularly spend a lot on, choosing a credit card that earns rewards for the purchase can be a good way to bolster your finances. Just try not to let a cash-back card encourage you to spend money you otherwise wouldn’t have.
Alternatives to cash-back credit cards
While cash-back credit cards are a great way to earn rewards for your purchases, they’re not your only option.
- Travel cards: You can typically redeem points in more ways than cash-back rewards, and you’ll often get the most value out of them when redeeming them for travel purchases. Many travel credit cards also let you transfer points to the credit card issuer’s travel partners, where they could be worth more than 1 cent per point.
- Cash-back debit cards: If you’re worried about incurring credit card debt, another alternative is to use a debit card that earns rewards. Keep in mind that a debit card’s reward rate is often far lower than what you’d see on a credit card.
How to apply for a cash-back credit card
Follow these steps to get a cash-back credit card of your own:
- Find the card that matches your budget. Examine your spending habits to determine which categories -- such as groceries, dining out or gas -- you spend the most money on each month. Then find a card that offers elevated rewards rates in those categories.
- Apply securely on the credit card issuer’s website by following the links above. You may also be able to apply for a card at a bank branch or over the phone, but using an online application will usually be the fastest and easiest way.
- Provide the issuer with all of the necessary financial information. Most issuers will ask for personal identifying information like your name and Social Security number, as well as information about your employment and income. You’ll also have to consent to a hard credit pull so the issuer can check your credit score.
- Use the card responsibly to earn rewards. Don’t spend more than you can afford to pay off each month, and always pay your bill on time and in full. Otherwise, interest charges and late fees could wipe out any rewards you earn and you risk sinking into credit card debt or damaging your credit.
FAQs
No, the IRS typically treats credit card rewards as a rebate on your spending rather than as income. However, credit card rewards earned without spending money -- such as if you receive a referral bonus by getting a friend to sign up for a credit card from your issuer -- may be considered taxable income. Consult with a tax professional if you’re unsure about your individual situation.
The highest cash-back rate is 10%, but that’s mostly reserved for special promotions. The general maximum is 5%, but most cards earn at least 1% across your purchases.
Yes, redeeming cash back as a statement credit will lower the overall balance of your credit account.
Whether cash-back rewards expire varies from card to card. For some cards, rewards expire a certain amount of time after they’ve been earned, or after a certain period of account inactivity. For others, your rewards never expire as long as your account is open and in good standing. You’ll need to check your cardholder agreement to find the exact terms governing your credit card’s rewards system.
For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express, click here.
Other credit cards we researched
- Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card
- Discover it® Chrome
- Instacart Mastercard®
- Amazon Visa
Recommended Articles
Our methodology
CNET reviews credit cards by exhaustively comparing them across set criteria developed for each major category, including cash-back, welcome bonus, travel rewards and balance transfer. We take into consideration the typical spending behavior of a range of consumer profiles -- with the understanding that everyone’s financial situation is different -- and the designated function of a card.
*Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa: To qualify for the welcome bonus, you must open and fund a new Rewards Checking Plus account through Upgrade and make 3 qualifying debit card transactions from your Rewards Checking Plus account within 60 days of the date the Rewards Checking Plus account is opened. If you have previously opened a checking account through Upgrade or do not open a Rewards Checking Plus account as part of this application process, you are not eligible for this welcome bonus offer. Your Upgrade Card and Rewards Checking Plus account must be open and in good standing to receive a bonus. To qualify, debit card transactions must have settled and exclude ATM transactions. Please refer to the applicable Upgrade VISA® Debit Card Agreement and Disclosures for more information. Welcome bonus offers cannot be combined, substituted, or applied retroactively. The bonus will be applied to your Rewards Checking Plus account as a one-time payout credit within 60 days after meeting the conditions.
**All information about the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards, Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards, Capital One Quicksilver, Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card, Alliant Cashback Visa Signature, Chase Freedom Flex, Citi Custom Cash Card, Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi, Instacart Mastercard, and Discover it Cash Back has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.
