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LendingTree is an advertising-supported comparison service. The site features products from our partners as well as institutions which are not advertising partners. While we make an effort to include the best deals available to the general public, we make no warranty that such information represents all available products. We are compensated by companies on this site and this compensation may impact how and where offers appear on this site (such as the order).
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
LendingTree is compensated by companies on this site and this compensation may impact how and where offers appears on this site (such as the order). LendingTree does not include all lenders, savings products, or loan options available in the marketplace.
LendingTree is an advertising-supported comparison service. The site features products from our partners as well as institutions which are not advertising partners. While we make an effort to include the best deals available to the general public, we make no warranty that such information represents all available products. We are compensated by companies on this site and this compensation may impact how and where offers appear on this site (such as the order).
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
November 30, 2022
*Editorial Note: The content of this article is based on the author’s opinions and recommendations alone. It may not have been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the credit card issuer. This site may be compensated through a credit card issuer partnership.
This article was last updated November 30, 2022 . Terms and conditions may have changed. For the most accurate information, please consult the issuer website.
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® charges a $0 annual fee and offers one of the highest earning rates among cash back cards when you factor in all its bonus categories. Plus it offers great synergy with other Chase Ultimate Rewards® cards.
Citi is an advertising partner.
Cash back credit cards are the most popular rewards option for credit cardholders — nearly 71% opt for cash back according to LendingTree research — and for good reason: Cash back rewards are typically flexible, valuable and easy to redeem. The best cash back credit cards earn an average of 2% cash back on all purchases and typically come with no annual fee. If you have the credit score to qualify for one of these cards, you should be able to earn this rate or higher. The key is to find a cash back card (or a combination of cash back cards) that closely matches your spending patterns.
Sign-up bonus: Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
Earning rate: Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
Why we picked this card: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card tops our list of best cash back cards due to its versatility, simplicity and synergy with other Chase Ultimate Rewards® cards. The 1.5% rewards rate may not seem the best at first glance, but its 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases gives it an edge. Not to mention, when paired with a premium card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, you can boost the 1.5% rate to 2.25% and the 3% rate to 4.5% back by redeeming your rewards for travel.
Pros | Cons |
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$0 annual fee Great synergy with other Chase cards Long intro APR for purchases and balance transfers Good travel protections | Low cash back rate on general purchases rate if not paired with other Chase cards Foreign transaction fees |
If you’re already familiar with cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a fantastic addition to your wallet. You can effectively earn 2.25% back on most purchases when you transfer your Ultimate Rewards points to a Chase Sapphire Reserve® account and redeem through Chase Travel. This is one of the highest cash back credit card earning rates available without a spending cap.
With its $0 annual fee, it’s hard to go wrong with the Chase Freedom Unlimited®.
Sign-up bonus: Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
Earning rate: Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
Why we picked this card: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card tops our list of best cash back cards due to its versatility, simplicity and synergy with other Chase Ultimate Rewards® cards. The 1.5% rewards rate may not seem the best at first glance, but its 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases gives it an edge. Not to mention, when paired with a premium card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, you can boost the 1.5% rate to 2.25% and the 3% rate to 4.5% back by redeeming your rewards for travel.
Pros | Cons |
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$0 annual fee Great synergy with other Chase cards Long intro APR for purchases and balance transfers Good travel protections | Low cash back rate on general purchases rate if not paired with other Chase cards Foreign transaction fees |
If you’re already familiar with cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a fantastic addition to your wallet. You can effectively earn 2.25% back on most purchases when you transfer your Ultimate Rewards points to a Chase Sapphire Reserve® account and redeem through Chase Travel. This is one of the highest cash back credit card earning rates available without a spending cap.
With its $0 annual fee, it’s hard to go wrong with the Chase Freedom Unlimited®.
Check out our Chase Freedom Unlimited® review.
Sign-up bonus: Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months
Earning rate: Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Why we picked this card: In addition to letting cardholders earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months, cardholders earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases. This is one of the best cash back credit card rewards rates among flat-rate cards. Rewards can be redeemed in a variety of ways, including as a statement credit, as a credit to a qualified Wells Fargo loan, mortgage or other credit account, in $20 increments at a Wells Fargo ATM or for gift cards.
Pros | Cons |
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Long intro APR Flat cash back rate $0 annual fee Cellphone protection Sign-up bonus | Potentially high regular APR 3% foreign transaction fee |
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is an excellent choice if you want to earn flat-rate rewards without worrying about different categories. Its 2% flat earning rate is strong compared to other cards’ non-bonus percentages usually amounting to 1% or 1.5%.
It also comes with strong intro APR periods on both purchases and balance transfers — so whether you need to finance a big purchase and pay it off over time, or transfer a balance from another card, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card can help you do that.
If you opened a Wells Fargo credit card in the past 15 months and received an intro APR and/or a bonus, you might not qualify for intro APR and/or a bonus on this card. And if you opened another Wells Fargo credit card in the past six months, your application for this card might be denied.
Sign-up bonus: Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months
Earning rate: Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Why we picked this card: In addition to letting cardholders earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months, cardholders earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases. This is one of the best cash back credit card rewards rates among flat-rate cards. Rewards can be redeemed in a variety of ways, including as a statement credit, as a credit to a qualified Wells Fargo loan, mortgage or other credit account, in $20 increments at a Wells Fargo ATM or for gift cards.
Pros | Cons |
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Long intro APR Flat cash back rate $0 annual fee Cellphone protection Sign-up bonus | Potentially high regular APR 3% foreign transaction fee |
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is an excellent choice if you want to earn flat-rate rewards without worrying about different categories. Its 2% flat earning rate is strong compared to other cards’ non-bonus percentages usually amounting to 1% or 1.5%.
It also comes with strong intro APR periods on both purchases and balance transfers — so whether you need to finance a big purchase and pay it off over time, or transfer a balance from another card, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card can help you do that.
If you opened a Wells Fargo credit card in the past 15 months and received an intro APR and/or a bonus, you might not qualify for intro APR and/or a bonus on this card. And if you opened another Wells Fargo credit card in the past six months, your application for this card might be denied.
Check out our Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card review.
Welcome offer: Earn up to $250 – Here’s How: Earn up to $150 back when you shop with PayPal. Earn 20% back as a statement credit on purchases when you use your new Card to check out with PayPal at merchants in the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $150 back. Plus, earn $100 back as a statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earning rate: 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. 1% cash back on other purchases. Terms apply.
Why we picked this card: You can earn 3% cash back on many everyday spending categories, including U.S. supermarkets, redeemable for statement credits. Though the 3% categories are each capped at $6,000 in purchases per year, you’ll earn at least $540 in cash back rewards if you max out every category. And with a $0 annual fee, there’s no cutting into your rewards.
Pros | Cons |
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$0 annual fee Long intro APR offer High earning rate on everyday purchases like U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations | $6,000 spending cap for elevated categories Foreign transaction fee: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars. |
To see rates & fees for Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express please click here.
If you spend a lot at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. online retailers or U.S. gas stations and you’d prefer a card with no annual fee, then the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is a good fit for you.
This is also a good choice for people looking to transfer a balance or seeking more time to pay off a big purchase because of its long intro APR on both purchases and balance transfers.
If you’re looking for higher cash back rates on everyday purchases and willing to pay an annual fee, then the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express may be a good option.
Welcome offer: Earn up to $250 – Here’s How: Earn up to $150 back when you shop with PayPal. Earn 20% back as a statement credit on purchases when you use your new Card to check out with PayPal at merchants in the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $150 back. Plus, earn $100 back as a statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earning rate: 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. 1% cash back on other purchases. Terms apply.
Why we picked this card: You can earn 3% cash back on many everyday spending categories, including U.S. supermarkets, redeemable for statement credits. Though the 3% categories are each capped at $6,000 in purchases per year, you’ll earn at least $540 in cash back rewards if you max out every category. And with a $0 annual fee, there’s no cutting into your rewards.
Pros | Cons |
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$0 annual fee Long intro APR offer High earning rate on everyday purchases like U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations | $6,000 spending cap for elevated categories Foreign transaction fee: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars. |
To see rates & fees for Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express please click here.
If you spend a lot at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. online retailers or U.S. gas stations and you’d prefer a card with no annual fee, then the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is a good fit for you.
This is also a good choice for people looking to transfer a balance or seeking more time to pay off a big purchase because of its long intro APR on both purchases and balance transfers.
If you’re looking for higher cash back rates on everyday purchases and willing to pay an annual fee, then the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express may be a good option.
Check out our Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express review.
Sign-up bonus: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening!
Earning rate: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter! Plus, earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.
Why we picked this card: The Chase Freedom Flex℠ is the best of 5% cash back cards because it’s potentially the most rewarding. In addition to 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (up to $1,500 in qualified purchases each quarter you activate), you also get 3% cash back on drugstores and dining, which gives it an edge over its main competitor, the Discover it Cash Back. You can also earn a generous sign-up bonus with a low spending requirement.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back from categories that rotate quarterly $0 annual fee Sign-up bonus Long intro APR | $1,500 spending cap for bonus categories Bonus categories require activation each quarter Foreign transaction fees |
If you want a solid ongoing cash back rate on dining and drugstore purchases, and your spending also lines up well with the rotating categories, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers the chance to earn generous cash back. Just remember to activate the new bonus category every quarter, and be aware that after spending $1,500 in the quarterly category, your earning rate for such purchases will drop to 1% (meaning you can earn up to $75 cash back at the elevated rate each quarter).
Examples of Chase’s bonus categories have included:
The Chase Freedom Flex℠ does charge a foreign transaction fee of 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars, so leave it at home when traveling outside the country. Also, before applying, make sure you’re aware of the Chase 5/24 rule — an unwritten rule that essentially means Chase will deny your application for a card if you’ve opened five or more cards from any issuer in the past 24 months.
Sign-up bonus: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening!
Earning rate: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter! Plus, earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.
Why we picked this card: The Chase Freedom Flex℠ is the best of 5% cash back cards because it’s potentially the most rewarding. In addition to 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (up to $1,500 in qualified purchases each quarter you activate), you also get 3% cash back on drugstores and dining, which gives it an edge over its main competitor, the Discover it Cash Back. You can also earn a generous sign-up bonus with a low spending requirement.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back from categories that rotate quarterly $0 annual fee Sign-up bonus Long intro APR | $1,500 spending cap for bonus categories Bonus categories require activation each quarter Foreign transaction fees |
If you want a solid ongoing cash back rate on dining and drugstore purchases, and your spending also lines up well with the rotating categories, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers the chance to earn generous cash back. Just remember to activate the new bonus category every quarter, and be aware that after spending $1,500 in the quarterly category, your earning rate for such purchases will drop to 1% (meaning you can earn up to $75 cash back at the elevated rate each quarter).
Examples of Chase’s bonus categories have included:
The Chase Freedom Flex℠ does charge a foreign transaction fee of 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars, so leave it at home when traveling outside the country. Also, before applying, make sure you’re aware of the Chase 5/24 rule — an unwritten rule that essentially means Chase will deny your application for a card if you’ve opened five or more cards from any issuer in the past 24 months.
Check out our Chase Freedom Flex℠ review.
Sign-up bonus: One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Earning rate: 1.5% Cash Back on every purchase, every day; 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)
Why we picked this card: For a $0 annual fee card, the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card has decent benefits plus a few extra perks like elevated rewards booked through Capital One Travel and long introductory APR offers for purchases and balance transfers. Its sign-up bonus also requires minimal spending to qualify — and its foreign transaction fees are none.
Pros | Cons |
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$0 annual fee Unlimited cash back rewards Long intro APR Foreign transaction fees: None | Cash back rate is low Top of range for regular APR is high |
This card is best for those who prefer simple cash back earning rates and a no-annual fee card. It could also be good for occasional travelers if you book through the Capital One Travel portal.
Because of its long intro APR periods for purchases and balance transfers, this could be a simple card for a balance transfer or a big purchase you want to finance over time.
There’s a 0% intro on purchases for 15 months. Then, a regular APR of 17.99% - 27.99% (Variable) applies. There’s also a 0% intro on balance transfers for 15 months. After, a 17.99% - 27.99% (Variable) APR applies as well. Be aware of the balance transfer fee of 3%.
Sign-up bonus: One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Earning rate: 1.5% Cash Back on every purchase, every day; 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)
Why we picked this card: For a $0 annual fee card, the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card has decent benefits plus a few extra perks like elevated rewards booked through Capital One Travel and long introductory APR offers for purchases and balance transfers. Its sign-up bonus also requires minimal spending to qualify — and its foreign transaction fees are none.
Pros | Cons |
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$0 annual fee Unlimited cash back rewards Long intro APR Foreign transaction fees: None | Cash back rate is low Top of range for regular APR is high |
This card is best for those who prefer simple cash back earning rates and a no-annual fee card. It could also be good for occasional travelers if you book through the Capital One Travel portal.
Because of its long intro APR periods for purchases and balance transfers, this could be a simple card for a balance transfer or a big purchase you want to finance over time.
There’s a 0% intro on purchases for 15 months. Then, a regular APR of 17.99% - 27.99% (Variable) applies. There’s also a 0% intro on balance transfers for 15 months. After, a 17.99% - 27.99% (Variable) APR applies as well. Be aware of the balance transfer fee of 3%.
Check out our Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card review.
Sign-up bonus: LIMITED TIME OFFER: Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Earning rate: Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year. Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn.
Why we picked this card: With a high cash back rate at office supply stores, and on internet, cable and phone services, the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card is a great fit for many small businesses. There is an annual cap of $25,000 in combined purchases for the 5% cash back bonus, which is $1,250 if you max it out. If you max out the 2% rate on combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants, which has a $25,000 cap as well, that amounts to $500.
Pros | Cons |
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Generous sign-up bonus Excellent cash back rate on typical business categories $0 annual fee Free employee cards | Bonus 5% cash back has a 25,000 annual cap No bonus cash back for travel spend Foreign transaction fees |
If you are a small business owner who spends a large amount on office supply store purchases and internet, cable and phone services each year, the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card could be a good fit.
Just know, if your business primarily spends on travel, this card won’t be a good fit for you since it does not offer an accelerated cash back rate on travel purchases, and it charges foreign transaction fees.
Sign-up bonus: LIMITED TIME OFFER: Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Earning rate: Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year. Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn.
Why we picked this card: With a high cash back rate at office supply stores, and on internet, cable and phone services, the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card is a great fit for many small businesses. There is an annual cap of $25,000 in combined purchases for the 5% cash back bonus, which is $1,250 if you max it out. If you max out the 2% rate on combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants, which has a $25,000 cap as well, that amounts to $500.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Generous sign-up bonus Excellent cash back rate on typical business categories $0 annual fee Free employee cards | Bonus 5% cash back has a 25,000 annual cap No bonus cash back for travel spend Foreign transaction fees |
If you are a small business owner who spends a large amount on office supply store purchases and internet, cable and phone services each year, the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card could be a good fit.
Just know, if your business primarily spends on travel, this card won’t be a good fit for you since it does not offer an accelerated cash back rate on travel purchases, and it charges foreign transaction fees.
Check out our Ink Business Cash® Credit Card review.
Sign-up bonus: $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
Earning rate: 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose. 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center. 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants. 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
Why we picked this card: This card beats out its main competitor, the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card, by offering a higher rewards rate and more customization. The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card allows you to earn $100 in rewards from bonus categories each quarter, while the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card only allows you to earn $75 in bonus categories each quarter. The former allows you to choose two spending categories for elevated rewards, while the latter only lets you choose one category.
Pros | Cons |
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High cash back earning rates Customizable earning categories $0 annual fee Long intro APR offer for purchases and balance transfers | Earnings cap for elevated cash back rates $25 minimum cash back redemption Foreign transaction fees |
This card is best for people who would rather have less credit cards they can customize than several cards they use for specific spending categories. You can customize this card to help you earn more for two of your top spending categories.
However, it’s still worth looking into different credit cards for certain spending categories. The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card has a cap on how much you can earn on elevated categories, while cards like the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card and the Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer have unlimited rewards. Depending on how much you spend, you may be able to earn more with an unlimited rewards card.
Sign-up bonus: $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
Earning rate: 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose. 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center. 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants. 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
Why we picked this card: This card beats out its main competitor, the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card, by offering a higher rewards rate and more customization. The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card allows you to earn $100 in rewards from bonus categories each quarter, while the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card only allows you to earn $75 in bonus categories each quarter. The former allows you to choose two spending categories for elevated rewards, while the latter only lets you choose one category.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
High cash back earning rates Customizable earning categories $0 annual fee Long intro APR offer for purchases and balance transfers | Earnings cap for elevated cash back rates $25 minimum cash back redemption Foreign transaction fees |
This card is best for people who would rather have less credit cards they can customize than several cards they use for specific spending categories. You can customize this card to help you earn more for two of your top spending categories.
However, it’s still worth looking into different credit cards for certain spending categories. The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card has a cap on how much you can earn on elevated categories, while cards like the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card and the Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer have unlimited rewards. Depending on how much you spend, you may be able to earn more with an unlimited rewards card.
Sign-up bonus: 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.
Earning rate: 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
Why we picked this card: The Discover it® Cash Back has one of the most unique and valuable sign-up bonuses out there (as do all of the Discover it® cards). Discover will match the cash back you’ve earned in your first year with no minimum or maximum amount. So if you earn $500 in cash back, Discover will give you an additional $500.
Pros | Cons |
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High bonus cash back rate Long intro APR offer for purchases and balance transfers Valuable sign-up bonus $0 annualfee | Rotating bonus categories require activation Earnings cap on bonus spending categories Low cash back rate outside of bonus categories Limited acceptance abroad |
The Discover it® Cash Back is best for people looking to take advantage of its sign-up bonus and its bonus categories. Bonus categories are usually everyday purchases. Below is the cashback calendar for the remainder of 2022 and 2023:
October through December (2022): Amazon.com and digital wallets
January through March (2023): Grocery stores (excluding Target and Walmart), drug stores and select streaming services
April through June 2023): TBA
July through September (2023): TBA
October through December (2023): TBA
Sign-up bonus: 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.
Earning rate: 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
Why we picked this card: The Discover it® Cash Back has one of the most unique and valuable sign-up bonuses out there (as do all of the Discover it® cards). Discover will match the cash back you’ve earned in your first year with no minimum or maximum amount. So if you earn $500 in cash back, Discover will give you an additional $500.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
High bonus cash back rate Long intro APR offer for purchases and balance transfers Valuable sign-up bonus $0 annualfee | Rotating bonus categories require activation Earnings cap on bonus spending categories Low cash back rate outside of bonus categories Limited acceptance abroad |
The Discover it® Cash Back is best for people looking to take advantage of its sign-up bonus and its bonus categories. Bonus categories are usually everyday purchases. Below is the cashback calendar for the remainder of 2022 and 2023:
October through December (2022): Amazon.com and digital wallets
January through March (2023): Grocery stores (excluding Target and Walmart), drug stores and select streaming services
April through June 2023): TBA
July through September (2023): TBA
October through December (2023): TBA
Check out our Discover it® Cash Back review.
Sign-up bonus: Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Earning rate: 3% Cash Back on dining and entertainment; 3% Cash Back on popular streaming services; 3% Cash Back at grocery stores; 1% Cash Back on all other purchases. Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases.
Why we picked this card: With unlimited 3% Cash Back on dining and entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers one of the highest cash back rates on dining and entertainment that we can find. This is doubly true for a card with a $0 annual fee. Plus, its sign-up bonus has a low spending requirement.
Pros | Cons |
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$0 annual fee Unlimited earnings High dining and entertainment earning rates Intro APR periods for purchases and balance transfers | Small sign-up bonus Target and Walmart don't fall under grocery category |
Avid foodies will love the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card‘s rewards for dining and grocery store purchases, while those who enjoy events such as going to a movie or a sports event can appreciate earning cash back on entertainment expenses.
Plus, the foreign transaction fee is none. That means if you’re planning a trip abroad and want to experience all the culinary goodies your vacation destination has to offer, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is an excellent card to keep in your wallet.
Sign-up bonus: Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Earning rate: 3% Cash Back on dining and entertainment; 3% Cash Back on popular streaming services; 3% Cash Back at grocery stores; 1% Cash Back on all other purchases. Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases.
Why we picked this card: With unlimited 3% Cash Back on dining and entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers one of the highest cash back rates on dining and entertainment that we can find. This is doubly true for a card with a $0 annual fee. Plus, its sign-up bonus has a low spending requirement.
Pros | Cons |
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$0 annual fee Unlimited earnings High dining and entertainment earning rates Intro APR periods for purchases and balance transfers | Small sign-up bonus Target and Walmart don't fall under grocery category |
Avid foodies will love the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card‘s rewards for dining and grocery store purchases, while those who enjoy events such as going to a movie or a sports event can appreciate earning cash back on entertainment expenses.
Plus, the foreign transaction fee is none. That means if you’re planning a trip abroad and want to experience all the culinary goodies your vacation destination has to offer, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is an excellent card to keep in your wallet.
Check out our Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card review.
Sign-up bonus: PNC will match the cash back rewards you earn under the PNC Cash Rewards Program during the first year after account opening.
Earning rate: Earn 2% on grocery store purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants and 4% on gas station purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually. 1% cash back on purchases everywhere, every time.
Why we picked this card: There are few cards that compare to the PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card when it comes to rewarding you for gas station purchases. If you’re able to max out the card strictly on gas each year, you’ll earn $320 in cash back.
Pros | Cons |
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High cash back rate on gas Generous sign-up bonus $0 annual fee | $8,000 annual cap on bonus cash back Foreign transaction fees Need at least $25 in cash back rewards to redeem |
If you do a lot of driving and spend over $600 per month on gas, this card is an excellent choice to have in your wallet. You can maximize your cash back by using the card strictly for fuel. Rewards can be redeemed as soon as you have at least $25 in your PNC Rewards account either as a statement credit or into a PNC account.
The sign-up bonus will match your cash back rewards. So if you earn $300 in cash back rewards your first year, you’ll receive another $300 — bringing your total cash back to $600. This offer ends 12/31/22.
The card also offers a "0% introductory APR for the first 12 billing cycles following account opening when the balance is transferred within the first 90 days following account opening." After that, a 17.74% to 28.74% variable APR applies. There is a foreign transaction fee of 3% of each foreign transaction in U.S. dollars.
Sign-up bonus: PNC will match the cash back rewards you earn under the PNC Cash Rewards Program during the first year after account opening.
Earning rate: Earn 2% on grocery store purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants and 4% on gas station purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually. 1% cash back on purchases everywhere, every time.
Why we picked this card: There are few cards that compare to the PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card when it comes to rewarding you for gas station purchases. If you’re able to max out the card strictly on gas each year, you’ll earn $320 in cash back.
Pros | Cons |
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High cash back rate on gas Generous sign-up bonus $0 annual fee | $8,000 annual cap on bonus cash back Foreign transaction fees Need at least $25 in cash back rewards to redeem |
If you do a lot of driving and spend over $600 per month on gas, this card is an excellent choice to have in your wallet. You can maximize your cash back by using the card strictly for fuel. Rewards can be redeemed as soon as you have at least $25 in your PNC Rewards account either as a statement credit or into a PNC account.
The sign-up bonus will match your cash back rewards. So if you earn $300 in cash back rewards your first year, you’ll receive another $300 — bringing your total cash back to $600. This offer ends 12/31/22.
The card also offers a "0% introductory APR for the first 12 billing cycles following account opening when the balance is transferred within the first 90 days following account opening." After that, a 17.74% to 28.74% variable APR applies. There is a foreign transaction fee of 3% of each foreign transaction in U.S. dollars.
Sign-up bonus: $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
Earning rate: 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Why we picked this card: This is a simple, no-frills card with no earnings cap on any categories. Its straightforward earning rate and $0 annual fee make this a solid flat-rate card to have.
Pros | Cons |
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Flat cash back earning rate $0 annual fee Long intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers | Low sign-up bonus No elevated rewards rates |
This card is best for people looking for a flat-rate cash back card, and might not qualify for the higher-earning Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card because you’ve opened another Wells Fargo credit card in the last six months.
You should also consider this for your flat-rate cash back card if you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, since you can increase your earning rate from 1.5% to up to 2.62%.
Its long intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers also make this a good candidate for balance transfers and paying off a big purchase over time.
Sign-up bonus: $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
Earning rate: 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Why we picked this card: This is a simple, no-frills card with no earnings cap on any categories. Its straightforward earning rate and $0 annual fee make this a solid flat-rate card to have.
Pros | Cons |
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Flat cash back earning rate $0 annual fee Long intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers | Low sign-up bonus No elevated rewards rates |
This card is best for people looking for a flat-rate cash back card, and might not qualify for the higher-earning Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card because you’ve opened another Wells Fargo credit card in the last six months.
You should also consider this for your flat-rate cash back card if you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, since you can increase your earning rate from 1.5% to up to 2.62%.
Its long intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers also make this a good candidate for balance transfers and paying off a big purchase over time.
Check out our Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card review.
Welcome offer: Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Earning rate: 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. Terms apply.
Why we picked this card: The 6% cash back earning rate at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (afterwards 1%) is the best rewards rate we can find on U.S. supermarket purchases. Your cash back can easily be redeemed for statement credits.
Pros | Cons |
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Large welcome offer High cash back rate at U.S. supermarkets Long intro APR | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 Foreign transaction fees U.S. supermarket rewards rate capped at $6,000 per year |
To see rates & fees for Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express please click here.
For consumers whose budgets include a significant amount of grocery shopping, streaming, and gas or transit costs, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is well worth paying a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. It takes $1,584 in spending per year on categories that earn 6% back to recoup the amount of the annual fee.
Be aware that the elevated rate on U.S. supermarket purchases is capped at $6,000 spent per year, after which your rate will drop to 1%. Still, if you max that out (which would require spending $500 a month), that’s $360 in cash back.
If you’re thinking about taking this card abroad with you, however, know that there’s a foreign transaction fee of 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.
To see rates & fees for Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express please click here.
Welcome offer: Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Earning rate: 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. Terms apply.
Why we picked this card: The 6% cash back earning rate at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (afterwards 1%) is the best rewards rate we can find on U.S. supermarket purchases. Your cash back can easily be redeemed for statement credits.
Pros | Cons |
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Large welcome offer High cash back rate at U.S. supermarkets Long intro APR | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 Foreign transaction fees U.S. supermarket rewards rate capped at $6,000 per year |
To see rates & fees for Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express please click here.
For consumers whose budgets include a significant amount of grocery shopping, streaming, and gas or transit costs, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is well worth paying a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. It takes $1,584 in spending per year on categories that earn 6% back to recoup the amount of the annual fee.
Be aware that the elevated rate on U.S. supermarket purchases is capped at $6,000 spent per year, after which your rate will drop to 1%. Still, if you max that out (which would require spending $500 a month), that’s $360 in cash back.
If you’re thinking about taking this card abroad with you, however, know that there’s a foreign transaction fee of 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.
To see rates & fees for Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express please click here.
Check out our Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express review.
Sign-up bonus: None
Earning rate: Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Why we picked this card: This card is one of the best for flat-back rates because it has a 2% earning rate, a $0 annual fee and great balance transfer APRs. Its unique earnings structure also incentivizes you to pay in full and on time to earn more cash back.
Pros | Cons |
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Long intro APR on balance transfers Cash back earned as flexible ThankYou points Multiple ways to redeem cash back rewards $0 annual fee | Must pay off card to earn half of rewards 3% foreign transaction fee |
This card is best for people looking for a great balance transfer intro APR offer.
The Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer offer currently offers an introductory APR of 0% for 18 months on Balance Transfers (followed by a 17.74% - 27.74% (Variable) APR), currently the best among cash back cards. Plus, earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Sign-up bonus: None
Earning rate: Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Why we picked this card: This card is one of the best for flat-back rates because it has a 2% earning rate, a $0 annual fee and great balance transfer APRs. Its unique earnings structure also incentivizes you to pay in full and on time to earn more cash back.
Pros | Cons |
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Long intro APR on balance transfers Cash back earned as flexible ThankYou points Multiple ways to redeem cash back rewards $0 annual fee | Must pay off card to earn half of rewards 3% foreign transaction fee |
This card is best for people looking for a great balance transfer intro APR offer.
The Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer offer currently offers an introductory APR of 0% for 18 months on Balance Transfers (followed by a 17.74% - 27.74% (Variable) APR), currently the best among cash back cards. Plus, earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Check out our Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer review.
Sign-up bonus: Get a $150 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval.
Earning rate: 5% back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership, 2% back at restaurants and gas stations and 1% back on all other purchases.
Why we picked this card: Do a ton of online shopping? Then the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card is a no-brainer. You can earn 5% back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market using your card with an eligible Prime membership. The card also earns 2% back at restaurants, gas stations and drugstores and offers a generous gift card just for making your first purchase.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back at Amazon and Whole Foods $0 annual fee Visa Signature travel protections | Only available to Amazon Prime members Foreign transaction fees |
If you do much of your online shopping at Amazon, getting the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card could be a no-brainer — it charges a $0 annual fee and earns cash back at a generous rate. For those who already have an Amazon Prime membership, it’s hard to think of a downside. But if you don’t have a Prime membership, you’d only qualify for the Amazon Rewards Visa Card, which earns cash back at a lower rate.
To decide if this card is worth the cost of a Prime membership ($139 for a regular annual membership, $69 for an annual membership at the college student rate), note that you’d need to spend $2,780 on purchases earning 5% back to recoup the cost of a regular membership and $1,380 to recoup the cost of a student membership.
Sign-up bonus: Get a $150 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval.
Earning rate: 5% back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership, 2% back at restaurants and gas stations and 1% back on all other purchases.
Why we picked this card: Do a ton of online shopping? Then the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card is a no-brainer. You can earn 5% back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market using your card with an eligible Prime membership. The card also earns 2% back at restaurants, gas stations and drugstores and offers a generous gift card just for making your first purchase.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back at Amazon and Whole Foods $0 annual fee Visa Signature travel protections | Only available to Amazon Prime members Foreign transaction fees |
If you do much of your online shopping at Amazon, getting the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card could be a no-brainer — it charges a $0 annual fee and earns cash back at a generous rate. For those who already have an Amazon Prime membership, it’s hard to think of a downside. But if you don’t have a Prime membership, you’d only qualify for the Amazon Rewards Visa Card, which earns cash back at a lower rate.
To decide if this card is worth the cost of a Prime membership ($139 for a regular annual membership, $69 for an annual membership at the college student rate), note that you’d need to spend $2,780 on purchases earning 5% back to recoup the cost of a regular membership and $1,380 to recoup the cost of a student membership.
Sign-up bonus: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
Earning rate: 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
Why we picked this card: The Discover it® Student Cash Back is a great choice for those just starting to build a credit profile. It lets you earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically. The lack of an annual fee also makes it a smart choice for students.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back categories rotate quarterly Geared toward students with limited credit history Matches cash back in first year, for new cardmembers $0 annual fee | $1,500 spending cap for bonus categories Bonus categories require activation each quarter Foreign transaction fees |
The Discover it® Student Cash Back is best for students who want to build credit, take advantage of Discover’s valuable sign-up bonus and don’t mind activating rotating categories.
Discover’s other student credit card, the Discover it® Student chrome, doesn’t require you to activate categories. You can earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases - automatically. This option may be better for people who want a card that requires less upkeep.
With a $0 annual fee and straightforward rewards rate, the Discover it® Student Cash Back is great for students using their first credit card.
Sign-up bonus: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
Earning rate: 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
Why we picked this card: The Discover it® Student Cash Back is a great choice for those just starting to build a credit profile. It lets you earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically. The lack of an annual fee also makes it a smart choice for students.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back categories rotate quarterly Geared toward students with limited credit history Matches cash back in first year, for new cardmembers $0 annual fee | $1,500 spending cap for bonus categories Bonus categories require activation each quarter Foreign transaction fees |
The Discover it® Student Cash Back is best for students who want to build credit, take advantage of Discover’s valuable sign-up bonus and don’t mind activating rotating categories.
Discover’s other student credit card, the Discover it® Student chrome, doesn’t require you to activate categories. You can earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases - automatically. This option may be better for people who want a card that requires less upkeep.
With a $0 annual fee and straightforward rewards rate, the Discover it® Student Cash Back is great for students using their first credit card.
Check out our Discover it® Student Cash Back review.
Sign-up bonus: Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year.
Earning rate: 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
Why we picked this card: If your credit is limited or poor and needs to be rebuilt, the Discover it® Secured Credit Card could be an ideal choice. You do have to provide a security deposit, but Discover will review your account monthly and potentially graduate you to an unsecured card after the initial seven months.
Pros | Cons |
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Available to consumers with bad credit $0 annual fee Earns cash back on every purchase Matches cash back in the first year, for new cardmember Ability to graduate to an unsecured card in as little as seven months | Refundable security deposit required No traditional sign-up bonus |