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A cash back credit card is a type of rewards card. You can think of cash back as a deferred discount - for every eligible purchase, you're later given a percentage back. Depending on the card, you might earn the same percentage of cash back on all purchases, or you might earn a higher rate on certain kinds of purchases, like dining or gas. Check out the best cash back credit card offers from our partners below.
Best Cash Back Cards - Cash in with December 2021's Top Offers:
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
2%
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Intro bonus
$200 cash rewards
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
14.99%-24.99% (Variable)
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
If you’re not interested in keeping up with bonus categories or spending caps, the Wells Fargo Active Cash℠ Card offers a simple solution: unlimited 2 percent cash rewards on purchases. If you’re looking for a flat-rate cash rewards card that will be valuable no matter how your budget changes, it’s hard to do better than that.
Has great short-and long-term value with cash back rate and intro APR offer.
There are no limits on the cash rewards you can earn and rewards never expire as long as the account is in good standing.
Cons
The balance transfer fee will jump from 3 percent to 5 percent after the first 120 days from account opening (min: $5).
The 3 percent foreign transaction fee could eat into cash back rewards if you use this card abroad.
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers, then a 14.99% to 24.99% variable APR; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5
$0 annual fee
No category restrictions or sign ups and cash rewards don't expire as long as your account remains open
Enjoy a premium collection of benefits at a selection of the world's most intriguing and prestigious hotel properties with Visa Signature Concierge
Get up to $600 protection on your cell phone (subject to $25 deductible) against covered damage or theft when you pay your monthly cellular telephone bill with your Wells Fargo Active Cash℠ Card
Select "Apply Now" to learn more about the product features, terms and conditions
additional features
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
5%
5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target® or Walmart® purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.
5%
5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
3%
3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services and on drugstore purchases.
1.5%
Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro bonus
$200
$200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
14.99% - 24.74% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® can be a lucrative cash back asset, especially for those who spend a considerable amount on travel and make good use of the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. The sign-up bonus for this card is also one of the most attainable on the market, making grabbing extra bonus earnings a breeze.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
5%
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations and when you pay using PayPal, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.
1%
Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
Intro bonus
Cashback Match™
Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
11.99% - 22.99% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The Discover it® Cash Back is a popular choice for cash back rewards because of the rotating bonus categories. It's an exciting way to earn cash back quarter by quarter and all year-round without committing to a set rewards category.
Discover will match the cash back you earn at the end of the first year.
There are a few cash back redemption options, including credit to your account and donations.
Cons
You must enroll to take advantage of the bonus categories each quarter.
There is a spending limit on your highest cash back category each quarter ($1,500 in combined purchases per quarter).
Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations and when you pay using PayPal, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.
Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
Redeem cash back in any amount, any time. Rewards never expire.
Use your rewards at Amazon.com checkout.
No annual fee.
Discover is accepted nationwide by 99% of the places that take credit cards.
Click "Apply Now" to see rewards, FICO® Credit Score terms, Cashback Match™ details & other information.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
5%
Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter.
1%
Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro bonus
$200
Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $750 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
13.99% – 23.99% (Variable)
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
With the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card, you don't have to adjust your bonus cash back category — the category adjusts to your spending. Whichever of the 10 eligible categories where you spend the most automatically becomes your bonus category.
You won’t have to worry about creating spending strategies to maximize rewards.
There’s an intro APR offer on both purchases and balance transfers, saving you a bit on interest.
Cons
There is a spending cap on your top cash back rewards spending category (up to $500 each billing cycle, 1% cash back thereafter).
The balance transfer fee is on the higher end at 5 percent of the balance transfer amount or $5 (whichever is greater).
Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $750 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 13.99% - 23.99%, based on your creditworthiness.
Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
No Annual Fee
Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash℠ Card account per person.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
3%
Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases).
2%
Earn automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases).
1%
Earn unlimited 1% on all other purchases.
Intro bonus
$200
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
13.99% - 23.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
For generous cash back earnings, the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card can help you turn selection into satisfaction. It’s not the only card to offer bonus categories that change, but the ability to choose and change your highest bonus category as often as once a month is a nice feature.
You have the autonomy to choose which category you spend the most in and want to earn the most in.
If you choose the online shopping category for bonus rewards, both web and app purchases count.
Cons
There are spending caps on your highest spending categories ($2,500 in combined purchases per quarter, then 1%).
There are other cards that offer higher cash back rewards in popular spending categories.
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases
If you're a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25% - 75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn up to 5.25% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
No annual fee and no expiration on rewards
0% Introductory APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 13.99% - 23.99% Variable APR will apply. A 3% fee (min $10) applies to all balance transfers.
Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap
This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
additional features
Purchase intro APR
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Balance transfer intro APR
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any BTs made in the first 60 days. A 3% fee (min. $10) applies.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
6%
6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
6%
6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
3%
3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more.
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
1%
1% Cash Back on other purchases
Intro bonus
$300
Earn a $300 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Annual fee
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Regular APR
13.99%-23.99% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
With generous rewards rates in family-friendly categories including purchases at U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations, on-the-go families will have a hard time finding a more rewarding credit card.
There’s a $0 intro annual fee for the first year ($95 after).
You don’t have to keep track of rotating spending categories or enrollment deadlines.
Cons
There’s an annual fee after the first year of $95.
You won’t earn the extra rewards for grocery shopping at major superstores and wholesale clubs, as those don’t count as U.S. supermarkets.
Earn a $300 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months after account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
Low intro APR: 0% for 12 months on purchases from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.99% to 23.99%
6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
1% Cash Back on other purchases.
Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
1.5%
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
Intro bonus
$200
One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
14.99% - 24.99% (Variable)
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card is a good choice for earning cash back with no strategy required and no annual fee. The flat, unlimited cash back rate makes it handy for everyday use.
There’s a 0 percent intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months of card membership (14.99% to 24.99% percent variable after).
There are multiple redemption options for rewards, including statement credit, gift cards, and more.
Cons
There are other cards on the market that offer a higher unlimited cash back rate.
Following the introductory APR period, you might find the 14.99% - 24.99% variable APR to be a bit on the high side.
One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 14.99%-24.99% variable APR after that
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
2%
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Intro bonus
N/A
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
13.99% - 23.99% (Variable)
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
If you make your payments on time each month, it’ll be tough to find a better cash back card than the Citi® Double Cash Card. With healthy financial habits, this card effectively becomes a 2 percent flat-rate cash back card (1 percent when you make purchases and another 1 percent when you pay your bill), a rare find in the cash back market.
You can convert your cash back earnings to Citi ThankYou points when paired with a card like the Citi Premier® Card, which can be redeemed for travel, gift cards and more.
There are no spending category restrictions or rotating categories.
Cons
Your rewards can expire with this card if you don’t use it for a year.
You must earn a minimum of $25 cash back to redeem.
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time.
Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 13.99% - 23.99%, based on your creditworthiness.
Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
The standard variable APR for Citi Flex Plan is 13.99% - 23.99% based on your creditworthiness. Citi Flex Plan offers are made available at Citi's discretion.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
8%
Earn 8% cash back on tickets at Vivid Seats through January 2023.
3%
Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®).
1%
Earn 1% on all other purchases.
Intro bonus
$200
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
14.99% - 24.99% (Variable)
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
For food, fun and cash back, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card brings a lot to the table. You’ll earn a good cash back rate whether you’re out on the town or cooking at home. The sign-up bonus is competitive, too, offering a nice chunk of change for a relatively small spending requirement.
Your rewards will never expire for the life of the account.
There are no spending caps assessed to your cash back earnings.
Cons
Beware of redeeming cash rewards on Amazon.com, as there is a list of restricted items you can’t use rewards on.
You cannot redeem your rewards for merchandise or airline travel.
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other purchases. Plus, earn 8% cash back on tickets at Vivid Seats through January 2023
No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 14.99% - 24.99% variable APR after that
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
1.5%
Earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every time.
Intro bonus
$200
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
13.99% - 23.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
If you’re looking for a card that offers uncomplicated, reliable cash back, consider the Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card. Qualified Bank of America loyalists will find this card especially valuable due to the cash back boost for Preferred Rewards members.
There’s an intro APR offer on both purchases and balance transfers.
Preferred Rewards members can boost their cash rewards earnings by 25 to 75 percent.
Cons
You have 60 days to take advantage of the intro balance transfer APR offer, otherwise the ongoing 13.99 to 23.99 variable APR applies.
Other cards offer a higher flat-rate cash back and no foreign transaction fees.
New Offer! With the new Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card, you can earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every time.
No annual fee
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
If you're a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn up to 2.62% cash back on every purchase.
No limit to the amount of cash back you can earn and cash rewards don't expire
0% Introductory APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 13.99% - 23.99% Variable APR will apply. A 3% fee (min $10) applies to all balance transfers.
Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap
This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
additional features
Purchase intro APR
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Balance transfer intro APR
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any BTs made in the first 60 days. A 3% fee (min. $10) applies.
The information about the U.S. Bank Cash+™ Visa Signature® Card, Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card, Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi and Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.
5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
This card is a good fit for: Simplicity seekers who want to earn a terrific rate of unlimited cash rewards on purchases.
This card is not a great choice for: International travelers who want to use the card abroad — The card charges a 3 percent foreign currency conversion fee.
What makes this card unique? Aside from the stellar rewards rate, there’s another standout feature — cell phone protection. You’ll receive up to $600 of protection on your cell phone (subject to $25 deductible) against covered damage or theft when you pay your monthly cellular telephone bill with your card.
Is the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card worth it? With a generous rewards rate on purchases and no annual fee, this card is a valuable addition to nearly any wallet.
This card is a good fit for: People who can’t decide between a cash back and a travel credit card.
This card is not a great choice for: Travelers who plan to use the card abroad. Despite the generous rewards you’ll earn booking travel, this card isn’t the best companion for international travel — foreign transactions come with a 3 percent fee.
What makes this card unique? This card allows you to redeem your rewards for both cash back and travel (purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards) at a value of 1 cent apiece. If you’re interested in travel rewards but not yet sold, this is a great way to ensure you can always redeem your rewards in a way that’s valuable to you.
Is the Chase Freedom Unlimited worth it? For a no annual fee card, the Chase Freedom Unlimited offers a ton of value. For starters, you’ll always earn at least 1.5 percent cash back when using the card. Plenty of decent cash back cards leave it at that, but the Chase Freedom Unlimited gives you several useful categories in which you’ll earn an even higher rate. Add to that the flexible redemption options, and you’ve got a card that’s valuable for a diverse array of people.
This card is a good fit for: People who want cash back on seasonal expenses.
This card is not a great choice for: People who value a simple, low-maintenance rewards structure.
What makes this card unique? This card offers 5 percent cash back (activation required) on up to $1,500 spent in categories that rotate each quarter, then 1 percent.
Is the Discover it Cash Back worth it? If you max out the $1,500 spending cap for the 5 percent rate each quarter (activation required, 1 percent after meeting the spending cap), you’ll earn $300 annually. Plus, Discover automatically matches all of the cash back you earn at the end of your first year, putting your first-year earnings at an impressive $600. On the flip side, if you forget to activate the rotating bonus categories or find it bothersome to keep track of them, the Discover it Cash Back probably isn’t worth it.
This card is a good fit for: Someone looking for a high rate of cash back who doesn’t want to remember to activate bonus categories.
This card is not a great choice for: Someone who wants to always have the same bonus category.
What makes this card unique? There are a whopping ten eligible bonus categories, and each billing cycle you’ll earn 5 percent cash back in whichever category you’ve spent the most within (on up to $500 per billing cycle, then 1 percent).
Is the Citi Custom Cash Card worth it? With so many useful bonus categories, the potential for value is certainly there. If you were to spend $500 within one of the 10 eligible bonus categories, you would earn $25 in cash back before the rate drops to 1 percent during that billing cycle. Over the course of a year, that can really add up.
Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card
Best for choice of cash back category
This card is a good fit for: People who like the freedom to choose and change their bonus rewards category.
This card is not a great choice for: Big spenders — the 3 percent and 2 percent cash back rates only apply to the first $2,500 in combined purchases within those categories each quarter. After that, the rate for those categories drops to just 1 percent until the next quarter.
What makes this card unique? The ability to pick from six bonus categories is pretty great. Even better is the fact that you can change your pick once per calendar month. Let’s say you typically spend the most on dining. It would make sense to usually keep that as your 3 percent category selection. But maybe you have a large home improvement project planned. You could change your bonus category ahead of time to triple the cash back on your purchases, then switch it back to dining the next month.
Is the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card worth it? Sometimes, an unusual rewards structure can detract from a card’s value if it’s a hassle to keep up with. In this card’s case, the ability to “set and forget” your choice category allows you to be as hands-on (or hands-off) as you’d like. This card is especially worth it for Bank of America Preferred Rewards members, who can earn a 25 percent to 75 percent boost in cash back.
This card is a good fit for: People with a moderate-to-large grocery budget.
This card is not a great choice for: Someone who rarely eats at home or someone who does their grocery shopping at superstores like Walmart, Target or Costco, which are ineligible for the U.S. grocery stores cash back category.
What makes this card unique? Some cash back cards offer rates as high as 6 percent, but it’s uncommon to find that rate attached to a rewards category as valuable as U.S. supermarkets (6 percent on up to $6,000 on purchases at U.S. supermarkets per year, then 1 percent). The Blue Cash Preferred is a family favorite for good reason.
Is the Blue Cash Preferred worth it? The tradeoff for the superb cash back rate is the $95 annual fee ($0 introductory annual fee for the first year). But is it a fair tradeoff? To earn $95 in cash back, you would have to spend about $1,584 at U.S. supermarkets (1,584 x 0.06 = 95.04). If your weekly grocery budget is more than $33, you would earn enough to make up the cost of the annual fee and more. That’s excluding any additional rewards you might earn by spending in the card’s other cash back categories.
This card is a good fit for: Cash back beginners seeking a flat-rate, no annual fee card.
This card is not a great choice for: People who tend to spend a lot in particular categories and are looking to maximize their cash back earnings.
What makes this card unique? For a no annual fee card, the Quicksilver offers quite a few protections, including travel accident insurance, 24-hour travel assistance services and extended warranty protection.
Is the Capital One Quicksilver worth it? The opportunity to earn unlimited 1.5 percent cash back on all of your purchases without paying an annual fee makes it easy for you to come out ahead. Factor in the additional value of the sign-up bonus and ongoing benefits, and the Quicksilver is a worthwhile addition to nearly anyone’s wallet — especially rewards card beginners.
This card is a good fit for: Simplicity lovers looking for a no annual fee cash back card.
This card is not a great choice for: Consumers seeking a sign-up bonus.
What makes this card unique? The rewards structure — 1 percent cash back as you buy, 1 percent as you pay — acts as an incentive to stay on top of your payments. You’ll only earn 2 percent cash back on your purchases once you’ve paid them off.
Is the Citi Double Cash worth it? With no annual fee and up to 2 percent cash back on every purchase (1 percent as you buy, one percent as you pay off your purchases), this card is probably worth it for most people. If you spent and paid off $500 per month on your Citi Double Cash, you’d earn $120 in cash back annually.
This card is a good fit for: Frequent restaurant-goers and entertainment seekers.
This card is not a great choice for: People who mostly cook and eat at home. While the SavorOne does offer 3 percent cash back at grocery stores from qualifying stores, there are cards with higher rewards rates in that category like the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express.
What makes this card unique? The SavorOne doesn’t have much competition in the realm of cash back for “entertainment” purchases. Many of the purchases included in Capital One’s entertainment category are experiences you buy tickets for, like concerts, movies, sporting events, theme parks and tourist attractions — purchases that would be rewarded at a measly rate of 1 percent with most other cash back cards.
Is the Capital One SavorOne worth it? The SavorOne charges no annual fee, so cardholders who pay their bill in full each month are always going to come out ahead. But if you can meet the $500 spending threshold within three months of opening your account, you’ll do even better by scoring a $200 cash bonus.
Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card
Best for Bank of America loyalists
This card is best for: Someone seeking uncomplicated, unlimited cash back that never expires. The deal is even sweeter for Bank of America Preferred Rewards members, who get a 25 percent to 75 percent boost in rewards value (based on your enrolled tier).
This card is not a great choice for: Consumers who want to take advantage of spending within particular categories, like groceries or restaurants.
What makes this card unique? The cash back boost for Preferred Rewards members is both unusual and valuable. Aside from that, the card also gives you access to your FICO® Score (updated monthly) for free within the mobile app or online banking.
Is the Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card worth it? If you’re a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn between up to 1.87 percent and up to 2.62 percent cash back on every purchase, which is great (based on your enrolled tier). If not, the 1.5 percent cash back rate is just OK. The real value of this card lies in its simplicity and loyalty incentives.
This card is a good fit for: People seeking a low-maintenance cash back card for everyday purchases
This card is not a great choice for: People who eat most of their meals at restaurants or shop for groceries at stores like Target, Walmart or Sam’s Club. Superstores and wholesale clubs are ineligible for the U.S. supermarkets’ cash back category.
What makes this card unique? While cash back at U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations isn’t a groundbreaking offer, 2 percent cash back at select U.S. department stores is both rare and useful.
Is the Blue Cash Everyday worth it? If gas and groceries are somewhere within your budget breakdown, this card is worth carrying — especially since it has no annual fee. Plus, the welcome offer gives new cardholders a chance to really kick start their earnings: a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 6 months of card membership.
This card is a good fit for: Whole Foods shoppers and Amazon Prime members who use the delivery service often.
This card is not a great choice for: Someone who isn’t a frequent Amazon shopper. You need to have an Amazon Prime membership to apply, which will run you $119 per year.
What makes this card unique? Retail cards aren’t usually known for their sign-up bonuses or perks, but the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature is different. New cardholders will receive a $70 Amazon gift card upon approval — no minimum spending requirement! Your purchases will also be covered by an extended warranty and purchase protection.
Is the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature worth it? If you already have an Amazon Prime membership that you feel is worth it, it’s a no-brainer — this card is a great addition to your wallet. Plus, it can be an easy way to recoup the cost of your membership. After you use your card to pay for $2,380 in Amazon purchases, you will have earned $119 in rewards value, which covers the annual fee.
This card is a good fit for: Big spenders looking for a flat-rate card with high earning potential.
This card is not a great choice for: Someone who isn’t an Alliant Credit Union member or willing to make a $5 donation. To be eligible for this card, you must be a member of Alliant Credit Union, which has some niche entry requirements, or their partner charity. The partner charity, Foster Care to Success, costs just $5 to join.
What makes this card unique? This card offers a cash back rate that’s almost unheard of: 2.5 percent back on all purchases (on up to $10,000 in qualifying purchases per billing cycle).
Is the Alliant Cashback Rewards Visa Signature worth it? If you’re a big spender, the cost of the $99 annual fee (waived the first year) won’t be too hard to recoup — $3,960 spent will earn you enough cash back to do so. The cash back limits are also very high, so they’re unlikely to cut into most people’s potential earnings.
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Best for fair credit
This card is a good fit for: Aspiring credit-builders who want to earn cash back.
This card is not a great choice for: Someone with excellent credit. The cash back rate is a great deal for someone with fair credit who has limited choices, but those with excellent or even good credit can do better.
What makes this card unique? You’ll automatically be considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months with on-time payments, which can boost your score.
Is the Capital One QuicksilverOne worth it? The fact that you don’t have to choose between credit-building features and earning rewards makes this card attractive. But is it worth the $39 annual fee? If you spend $2,600 ($216 per month) over the course of a year, you’ll make up that cost in cash back.
This card is a good fit for: People with bad or no credit who want to earn rewards on the everyday essentials.
This card is not a great choice for: Someone who doesn’t want to provide a $200 security deposit or someone with good enough credit to qualify for a non-secured rewards credit card.
What makes this card unique? Welcome bonuses are rare among credit cards for bad credit, which is why the Discover it Secured stands out. At the end of your first year, Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned.
Is the Discover it Secured worth it? If your options are limited by poor credit and you have the cash to provide for the security deposit, it’s definitely worth it. Unlike an annual fee, the deposit is refundable. Discover will automatically review your account after 7 months to determine if you qualify to upgrade to an unsecured card. At this point, those who qualify will get their deposit back, having earned rewards and built credit.
This card is a good fit for: People with no credit history who want to earn cash back and avoid fees.
This card is not a great choice for: Someone seeking additional perks or a sign-up bonus.
What makes this card unique? With some credit-builder cards, you run the risk of being surprised with fees and receiving few benefits. Not so with the Petal 2. You’ll earn cash back and build your credit without the fear of lurking annual fees, foreign transaction fees, late fees or returned payment fees.
Is the Petal 2 card worth it? A cash back rate of 1 percent on eligible purchases is OK for a credit-builder card, especially considering the fact that there’s no annual fee. Other credit-builder cards might offer a higher rate in some categories, but that may come at the expense of an annual fee or security deposit. In other words, the Petal 2 is likely worth it for the fee-averse.
Just as the name says, cash back credit cards reward you for eligible purchases by giving you a percentage of your purchase price back. For example, a 3 percent cash back rate means you earn 3 cents back for every dollar in eligible spending. For a cardholder with a $4,000 annual grocery bill, earning 3 percent at the supermarket could mean up to $120 in cash back rewards.
Cash back is essentially a discount on eligible purchases. You may not see it immediately at the register, but the payoff comes when you redeem your rewards.
According to an April 2021 Bankrate survey, more than half (59 percent) of U.S. adults carry at least one rewards credit card. Cash back cards are different from other types of rewards cards like those that offer points or miles for travel purchases. Instead of complicated redemption programs, a cash back card typically offers a few simple ways to redeem your rewards, including:
Cash back cards come in a variety of forms. The best cash back card type for you depends on your spending habits and lifestyle. Before you apply, you should know all of the options available to you.
Flat-rate cash back cards offer the same rewards rate for each eligible purchase. These cards are great for those who aren’t keen on activating and tracking bonus categories each quarter.
Top examples include:
Wells Fargo Active Cash Card
Citi Double Cash Card
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
Tiered cash back cards offer different rates of cash back for different types of purchases. For example, a tiered card may offer a boosted cash back rate of 3 percent on restaurant purchases, while all other purchases are rewarded with 1 percent cash back. The best way to maximize your cash back earnings is to have multiple tiered cards that reward your most common purchases at a high rate.
Top examples include:
Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Some credit cards offer bonus categories that change based on your preferences, your spending habits or the time of year. This can be an advantageous structure for those who don’t want to commit to specific bonus categories. Here are a few of the most common dynamic bonus category structures.
Rotating bonus categories: With rotating categories, you’ll often get higher rewards rates, but these cards typically require enrollment each quarter to qualify. Cards with rotating bonus categories tend to set spending limits on how much you can earn in high rewards categories per quarter.
Choose your own category: Some cards let you choose your cash back category on a monthly basis. With the option to change the monthly category, you can optimize your spending based on the category and plan out your year based on the cash back potential. For example, for the holiday months, you can opt into a category that will reward online purchases or department store purchases.
Auto-optimizing bonus categories: This setup is a lot like the “choose your own category” structure. However, instead of having to determine which bonus category is going to benefit you the most, these cards will do the work for you. Usually, the card will retroactively apply the bonus rate to purchases within your top eligible category each month.
Some cash back credit cards require a membership. These cards can often be quite lucrative. Co-branded cash back credit cards generally let you earn rewards and extra perks at specific stores or service providers. They often skip the annual fee, given you’ll need to pay for annual membership to enjoy the card’s benefits. Some credit unions also offer cash back card options to their members. Since credit unions are controlled and financed by members themselves, these members will often reap the benefits of more favorable interest rates and fewer banking and penalty fees that their not-for-profit institution provides. Membership requirements vary by credit union.
To become an Alliant Credit Union member, you must work at or be retired from an eligible Alliant partner organization, be related to a member, live or work in an eligible Chicago-area community or make a donation to Foster Care to Success.
Existing Bank of America or Merrill customers have even more incentive to apply for the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card. Preferred Rewards members get a 25 percent to 75 percent boost on their cash back earnings.
Pros and cons of using cash back credit cards
If you’re used to using a debit or a credit card that doesn’t earn rewards, the idea of cash back might sound too good to be true — “free” cash just for using the card?
Fortunately, cash back isn’t a gimmick. Plenty of people use cash back cards to bank hundreds of dollars per year without changing their spending habits. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of carrying a cash back card.
Pros
Earn rewards: If you pick a card that fits your spending habits, you can earn some extra cash every month just by using your credit card.
Build credit: Used responsibly, a cash back credit card can help you improve your credit score by adding to your credit history.
Many have no annual fee: Plenty of the best cash back credit cards feature no annual fee. So as long as you pay your bill in full, you won’t have to worry about whether you’re coming out ahead, no matter how you spend with the card
Sign-up bonuses: A sign-up bonus or welcome offer is an incentive offered to new cardholders who spend a certain amount within the first few months of opening the account. Cash back credit cards often offer bonuses worth several hundred dollars.
Cons
Sometimes less valuable than travel rewards: With cash back cards, you usually can’t score a particularly lucrative deal with your redemption, as you might when trading in travel rewards points for a flight.
Higher APRs: Rewards cards typically come with higher interest rates, so it almost always makes sense to choose a low-interest credit card instead of a cash back card if you carry a balance from month to month.
Value-limiting restrictions: As with any credit card, make sure to read the fine print. Some cards require you to periodically activate or enroll in your cash back category to earn cash back.
Bankrate insight
Everyone should have a 2 percent cash back card, according to industry analyst and credit card expert Ted Rossman. They’re universally appealing and often come with no annual fee. Learn more on why you should have a 2 percent cash back card.
Who should get a cash back credit card?
No matter your spending habits, it’s not hard to see the appeal of cash back. Just about anyone can benefit from getting a small portion of their purchases back. And unlike travel points or miles, you’re free to use cash back however you please.
If you’re funding a family of five, a sizable grocery bill is probably a given. Groceries are one of the most commonly rewarded purchases among cash back cards. The cash back you earn over the course of a year using your card at the supermarket could amount to a free week or two of groceries.
Even people who prefer the utmost simplicity — we’re talking longtime debit users — can find lots to love in a cash back card. A flat-rate, no annual fee cash back card is a great choice for someone who wants to earn rewards without much thought. Some cards even let you set up automatic bill payments and rewards redemptions for the ultimate “set and forget” rewards strategy.
The best time to build credit is before you really need it. That’s why it makes sense to use a credit card throughout your college years. Then, by the time you graduate and need a home or auto loan, you’ve spent years building an excellent credit score and earning cash rewards.
If you’re a money-saving pro, a cash back card can help your cause. Think of cash back as a tiny discount on every eligible purchase. Even if you only spent a modest $300 per month on a 2 percent cash back credit card, you’d earn $72 per year in cash back. It isn’t a staggering sum, but it could cover a fill-up or two at the gas station.
If you’re really in it to maximize your cash back earnings, holding a combination of flat-rate and tiered cards is the way to go. Ideally, you would have a credit card that rewards you at a high rate for your largest and most frequent purchases, as well as a good flat-rate card for everything else.
Whether or not you should get a cash back credit card is going to depend on your personal situation and needs. Here’s when a cash back card isn’t the best idea:
You’re a frequent flyer: If you travel often, a type of rewards credit card structured specifically to earn points and miles on travel purchases is a better addition to your wallet.
You’re in debt: If you’re trying to pay down credit card debt, then a cash back card will likely entice you into more spending. Work on paying off your consumer debt before getting a cash back rewards credit card.
You have bad credit: Instead of trying to earn rewards on your spending, focus on building your credit with timely payments with a secured credit card.
Bankrate insight
Before you apply for a cash back card, be sure you can pay your bill in full each month. Interest charges will nearly always cost you more than the value of your cash back earnings.
How to choose the best cash back credit card
Selecting the best cash back credit card for you is kind of like shopping for clothes. Whether you’re going for flashy or fun, the main concern should be whether it fits. As you’re searching for cash back cards, it can be easy to get confused. Are all cash back credit cards the same? What’s the best card for you? To make the best choice in a cash back card, you’ll need to compare certain factors. Consider these points when choosing your cash back card:
Where do you spend your money? You can maximize your cash back potential by reviewing your spending categories for the past few months and matching them with the best cash back cards that offer rewards in those categories.
How much effort will you put in? If you don’t want to activate rotating bonus categories for higher cash back rates every quarter, then a flat-rate cash back card will be easier to handle. However, if you want to put in the legwork for increased cash back rates, then get a card with bonus categories to use to your advantage.
What’s your credit score? Most cash back cards require a good-to-excellent credit score. Some cards meant for consumers with no credit history or bad credit have cash back programs, but a higher credit score typically makes it easier to qualify for a higher-earning card.
Do you want to pay an annual fee? While most cash back cards don’t have an annual fee, cards that offer increased rewards rates might. It’s up to you to determine when an annual fee is worth it, even on the best cash back credit cards.
What bonus features do you want? Many cash back cards offer sign-up bonuses or welcome offers as a reward for spending a specific amount of money within a specific time frame. You shouldn’t choose a card purely based on a sign-up bonus, but it can be a great tiebreaker if you’re stuck between two cards.
Do you pay your balance off each month? Carrying a balance means you’ll have to pay interest (unless you acquire a 0 percent intro APR card), which will usually outweigh the benefits of earning cash back. In that case, you’re likely better off with a low-interest credit card.
There are other features you might consider when looking for a cash back credit card. If you’re looking to finance a large purchase, you may want to consider a card with a zero percent introductory APR. If you’re working on building your credit, a card that monitors your credit score might be your priority or any number of other benefits that might be useful to you. When deciding on a cash back card, however, the points above will determine which card will provide you with the most value.
Bankrate insight
Shopping protections like extended warranty and purchase protection are common cash back credit card perks that could save you a lot of money. For example, the Chase Freedom Flex covers damage or theft of items purchased with the card for up to 120 days with a maximum of $500 per claim and $50,000 per account.
What credit card earns the most cash back?
You can choose from hundreds of cash back credit cards that reward purchases ranging from the general (2 percent back on all eligible purchases) to the specific (6 percent back on select U.S. streaming services). Each one puts money back in your wallet, but which credit card pays you the most cash back?
Ultimately, your spending habits determine which card is going to work hardest for you. That said, there are two cards that definitely belong in the conversation. Known for their lucrative rewards programs, the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express and the Citi Double Cash Card are both frontrunners in the cash back game.
Here, we’ll use consumer spending data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to demonstrate how much cash back an average consumer might earn annually with each card. We used averages from several common spending categories detailed in the 2020 BLS Consumer Expenditure Survey.
In this example, our cardholder annually spends $4,942 on food at home (about $95 per week), $1,568 on gas (about $30 per week), $2,375 on food away from home, $2,912 on entertainment, $907 on miscellaneous and $646 on personal care products and services. That’s an annual total of $13,350. Here’s how much cash back they would earn using each card for these purchases.
Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express
Cash back rates
6 percent cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 in purchases annually, then 1 percent)
6 percent cash back on select U.S. streaming services
3 percent cash back on transit (including rideshares, tolls, taxis and buses)
3 percent cash back at U.S. gas stations
1 percent on everything else
Terms apply.
Potential earnings
$4,942 at U.S. supermarkets
In order for the $4,942 spent on “food at home” to earn the 6 percent cash back rate, the purchases must be made at U.S. supermarkets. For specifics and exclusions, see American Express’s rewards category definitions.
: 4,942 x .06 = $296.52
$1,568 at U.S. gas stations: 1,568 x .03 = $47.04
$6,840 in remaining expenses: 6,840 x .01 = $68.40
Annual cash back earnings: $411.96
Annual cash back earnings minus the $95 annual fee ($0 intro annual fee for the first year): $316.96
Citi Double Cash Card
Cash back rates
Unlimited 2 percent cash back on all purchases: 1 percent as you buy, 1 percent as you make a payment
Potential earnings
$13,350 in total purchases: 13,350 x .02 = $267
Annual cash back earnings: $267
6 ways to maximize cash back
Pay your balances in full each month. Otherwise, you’ll simply lose the cash back you’ve earned (and then some) to interest. Note: Paying monthly balances on time and in full is a best practice, no matter what type of card you’re carrying, though cash back credit cards tend to carry higher APRs than, say, low-interest credit cards.
Snag a sign-up bonus. Choose a cash back credit card that offers bonus rewards if you spend a certain amount of money within a specified time period. Just make sure the spending requirement is in-line with your current spending habits. Otherwise, you risk carrying a balance and losing rewards to interest.
Enroll/activate your bonus categories each quarter. Rotating category cards typically require you to enroll or activate (the language varies) the bonus cash back categories for the upcoming quarter to earn the higher bonus rate. If you don’t, you’ll earn the standard rate.
Target your spending. In order to get the most out of a bonus category, try to max out the spending limit for the quarter. For example, Discover’s 2021 bonus categories for October through December 2021 are Amazon.com, Target.com and Walmart.com. By maxing out all of the bonus 5% categories (capped at $1,500 in spending each quarter, then 1%, activation required), you’ll earn $75 in cash back for that quarter.
Consider combining cards. A combination of cards will probably serve you best. The key is to make sure your major spending categories are covered so that you’re always earning the maximum amount of rewards on purchases. In addition to credit cards that offer boosted rewards in a few categories, it’s a good idea to have a flat-rate card in your arsenal as a catchall.
Explore the card’s online shopping portal. Some card issuers feature online shopping portals that offer cash back incentives, discounts or both. Examples include Chase Ultimate Rewards and Barclaycard RewardsBoost.
Bankrate insight
Consider the Chase Freedom Flex, Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Ink Business Preferred Credit Card. Consumers who spend across a wide variety of categories can pick up this combination of cards and combine Chase Ultimate Rewards points when they’re ready to redeem. By having all three cards, consumers can utilize bonus categories efficiently to maximize rewards for the year.
How we chose our best cash back cards
All credit cards from our partners are rated with a 5-star scoring system. To select the best cash back cards, we narrow our focus to concentrate on key features that make a big difference in this specific category, such as:
Cash back rates
While a rate of 1 percent cash back on all eligible purchases is useful, the cards that truly stand out tend to earn higher percentages. To estimate how much an average consumer might earn with particular cards, we used spending data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Special categories
Many of our top-rated cards feature higher rates for certain purchase categories, which makes it easier to find the most lucrative card for your spending habits and lifestyle.
Low fees and cost of ownership
The whole point of cash back cards is to earn rather than owe, so cards that go easy on annual fees and similar charges get high marks.
Variable APR
We recommend against carrying a credit card balance if at all possible — but if you have to, a reasonable and affordable interest rate can make it less financially taxing.
Additional reviews and research
Find out more about cash back credit cards with these resources from Bankrate:
Have more questions for our credit cards editors? Feel free to send us an email, find us on Facebook, or Tweet us @Bankrate.
Frequently asked questions about cash back credit cards
A cash back credit card is a type of rewards credit card. When you make purchases with your card, you’ll earn a set percentage of your purchase back. For example, a $100 purchase made with a 2 percent cash back card would earn $2 cash back. Most credit cards will allow you to redeem your cash back in the form of statement credits that reduce your account balance or direct deposits to your bank account.
Generally, the cash back earned with a credit card is not considered taxable income. The cash back rewards on purchases are more often considered discounts or rebates than actual earned income, given you have to spend money in order to earn money back. If there is an instance where you earn rewards without a required spend, those rewards could then be considered taxable income.
You may not receive cold, hard cash, but issuers offer redemption options like a direct deposit into a checking account, mailed checks, statement credits or gift cards. You can most often redeem your cash back rewards for a statement credit on your credit card balance. For example, if you have a balance of $500 and you redeem your rewards for a $50 statement credit, your new balance will then be $450.
To determine whether a cash back card is worth it for you, you need to compare the potential earnings to the costs, like an annual fee or interest charges. If you think you'll be carrying a balance from month to month, which leads to interest charges, consider a low-interest credit card instead. If you're a frequent traveler, a points and miles card will better suit your spending and will offer lucrative travel perks and benefits that cash back cards don't provide.
If you're looking at a cash back card with no annual fee and you plan to pay your balance in full each month, it's probably going to be worth getting. A card that doesn't cost much to own is one of the keys to maximizing your potential cash back earnings.
Many cards offer cash back rewards that never expire, as long as your account remains open and in good standing. However, don't assume that every issuer has this sort of policy. Check the terms and conditions before you apply for a cash back card to see whether the issuer allows unredeemed cash back to expire. If you do have a card with rewards that expire, keep track of the expiration dates. Look for those dates on your billing statements or the online dashboard and redeem your cash back with time to spare.
When deciding between a cash back card or a travel card, it is best to explore the kinds of benefits you would most like to reap. Travel cards provide the opportunity to earn points and miles that you can use for flights, hotels and other travel expenses. Most travel cards also offer sizable sign-up bonuses, though there can be high spending requirements attached. Travel cards can also carry pretty high annual fees. If you’re a frequent traveler and can afford to take on an annual fee, a travel card may be for you.
Cash back cards often offer rewards without the annual fees. These rewards are most often redeemable in the forms of statement credits or direct deposits. Spending requirements for sign-up bonuses on cash back cards tend to be lower and easier to meet. Cash back cards can also have more flexibility in terms of rewards earned by spending category. If you spend more in popular high earning cash back categories like gas or groceries, a cash back card may work best for you.
Mariah Ackary is a personal finance writer who specializes in credit card rewards and small business credit. Mariah is a lifelong writer, but she began writing about finance in 2018. She joined the Bankrate team in 2019, excited by the opportunity to directly help people make good financial decisions. Send your questions to mackary@bankrate.com
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Former Senior Editor Barry Bridges has been writing about credit cards, personal loans, mortgages and other personal finance products since 2017. Before joining Bankrate, he was an award-winning newspaper journalist in his native North Carolina.
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