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BLUEPRINT
Updated 4:31 p.m. UTC Sep. 3, 2024
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Cash-back credit cards are the gift that keeps on giving. Like an automatic coupon, when you pay for something with a cash-back card, you’ll get a percentage back on your spending every time.
The best cash-back card for you depends on how much you typically spend, where you spend the most money, and what other perks and benefits you value. We evaluated every available cash-back card on the market and picked out the best cash-back credit cards of 2024.
Our team of experts evaluates hundreds of credit cards and analyzes thousands of data points to help you find the best card for your situation. We use a data-driven methodology to determine each rating. Advertisers do not influence our editorial content. You can read more about our methodology below.
348+ cards analyzed.
8+ data points analyzed.
5-step fact-checking process.
Best for groceries at 91Ӱ supermarkets and at 91Ӱ gas stations
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Partner Offer
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
On American Express’s secure website
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
Welcome bonus
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Earn $250
Annual fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95
Regular APR
19.24%-29.99% Variable
Credit score
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
Earn 6% cash back at 91Ӱ supermarkets, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%); Earn 6% cash back on select 91Ӱ streaming subscriptions; Earn 3% cash back on transit (e.g., taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) and at 91Ӱ gas stations; Earn 1% cash back on other eligible purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or for eligible items at Amazon.com checkout.
Editor’s take
Pros
Earns generous cash back in numerous categories.
Intro APR periods on purchases and balance transfers.
Generous welcome bonus.
Cons
Ongoing annual fee.
Annual spending cap on elevated earnings at 91Ӱ supermarkets.
Redemptions are only in the form of statement credits.
The Blue Cash Preferred Card offers one of the highest cash-back rates for groceries at 91Ӱ supermarkets you’ll find (subject to an annual spending cap). You’ll earn strong rewards rates on select streaming services, at 91Ӱ gas stations and on other transit purchases. Heavy spenders can easily recoup the card’s annual fee.
Card details
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible 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 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible 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% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% – 29.99%.
6% Cash Back at 91Ӱ supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
6% Cash Back on select 91Ӱ streaming subscriptions.
3% Cash Back at 91Ӱ gas stations.
3% Cash Back 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 or at Amazon.com checkout.
$84 Disney Bundle Credit: With your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred Card, spend $9.99 or more each month on an auto-renewing Disney Bundle subscription, to receive a monthly statement credit of $7. Valid only at Disney Plus.com, Hulu.com or Plus.espn.com in the 91Ӱ
Terms Apply.
Best for flat rate
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
On Wells Fargo’s secure website
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
Welcome bonus
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
$200 Cash Rewards
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR
Credit score
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
Editor’s take
Pros
12 months of introductory APR financing on both new purchases and qualifying balance transfers.
Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases.
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months of account opening.
Cons
No purchase protection policies, other than cell phone protection.
No travel redemption options.
Other cards earn more cash back in specific categories.
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers easy, generous and unlimited flat-rate reward on spending with no categories or spending caps to keep track of, Plus a low intro APR offer on purchases and qualifying balance transfers.
Card details
Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; 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 categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
Best for customized rewards
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
*
The information for the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
Welcome bonus
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
$200
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.24% – 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Credit score
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
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.
Editor’s take
Pros
Lengthy intro APR financing on both new purchases and balance transfers.
Flexibility to choose your preferred cash-back category.
Solid welcome bonus after meeting spend requirements.
Cons
Elevated cash-back rates have a quarterly spending cap.
Few benefits.
There’s a foreign transaction fee.
This card’s unique rewards structure lets you choose each month which spending category from a list of six where you want to earn elevated cash back. It’s sure to be a favorite for consumers who need flexibility.
Card details
Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 3% cash back in the category of your choice, 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (on up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Welcome bonus: $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
APR: 0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases and for balance transfers made within the first 60 days, then a 19.24% to 29.24% variable APR applies. A 3% intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days; then a 4% fee applies to future balance transfers.
Foreign transaction fees: 3%.
Other perks and benefits: Preferred Rewards members earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase (eligibility required, terms apply), flexible cash back redemption options, automatic redemption option, $0 fraud liability, Balance Connect for overdraft protection with associated Bank of America accounts, convenience benefits including digital wallet and contactless chip technology.
Best for unlimited rewards
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
On Chase Bank USA, NA’s secure website
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
Welcome 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 Travel℠, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
Up to $300 cash back
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
20.49% – 29.24% Variable
Credit score
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on dining and drugstores and 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
Editor’s take
Pros
No annual fee.
Introductory APR periods on purchases and balance transfers.
Generous welcome bonus.
Cons
Can’t transfer points to travel partners unless paired with another card.
Charges foreign transaction fees.
There’s a balance transfer fee.
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® charges no annual fee and comes with a robust rewards program, a generous welcome bonus and a useful list of benefits.
Card details
INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) – worth up to $300 cash back!
Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most 91Ӱ checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% – 29.24%.
No annual fee – You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
Member FDIC
Best for welcome bonus
Discover it® Cash Back
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
On Discover’s secure website
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
Welcome bonus
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – 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.
Cashback Match
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
18.24% – 28.24% Variable APR
Credit score
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases—automatically.
Editor’s take
Pros
Low intro APR offer on both new purchases and balance transfers.
Generous rewards in quarterly rotating categories.
Automatic cash-back match at the end of your first cardmember year.
Cons
No travel insurance or purchase protection benefits.
Highest rewards are capped at $1,500 per quarter.
There’s a balance transfer fee.
This no-annual-fee card offers a low intro APR on both new purchases and balance transfers, plus it features a unique first-year welcome bonus: New applicants get a 100% cash-back match of all the rewards they’ve earned in their first year of card membership. The card is useful after the intro offer expires too, since it earns rewards on spending.
Card details
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers–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 you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases—automatically.
Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
Apply and you could get a decision in as little as 60 seconds.
Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 18.24% to 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
No annual fee.
Terms and conditions apply.
Best cash-back credit card
Chase Freedom Flex®
*
The information for the Chase Freedom Flex® has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
Welcome bonus
Earn a $150 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening,
$150 bonus
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
20.49% – 29.24% Variable
Credit score
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
Earn 5% cash back in categories that rotate quarterly on up to $1,500 when enrolled, 5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% on dining and drugstores and 1% on all other purchases.
Editor’s take
Pros
Generous cash-back potential if you maximize rotating categories.
Can pool rewards with a premium Ultimate Rewards®-earning card.
Low intro APR periods on purchases and balance transfers.
Cons
Rotating categories must be activated quarterly.
Not all rotating categories will be a good fit for every cardholder.
Takes work to track the various rewards categories.
The Chase Freedom Flex charges no annual fee, earns cash back in a wide variety of categories and offers a generous welcome bonus. It also comes with low intro APR periods on purchases and balance transfers. Last, but not least, Chase lets you redeem rewards in a variety of ways — including transferring them to a premium Ultimate Rewards®-earning card and enjoying 25% to 50% more value for travel bookings via Chase’s portal.
Card details
Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in categories that rotate quarterly (requires activation), 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on dining and drugstores and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Welcome bonus: Earn a $150 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.
APR:0% intro APR for the first 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% to 29.24%. There is an intro balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of each transfer, whichever is greater, in the first 60 days. Then the fee is the greater of $5 or 5% of each transfer.
Perks and benefits: Cellphone protection of up to $800 per claim with a $50 deductible, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, travel and emergency services, purchase protection and extended warranty.
Best for high rewards in uncommon categories
91Ӱ Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
*
The information for the 91Ӱ Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
Welcome bonus
Earn a $200 rewards bonus after you spend $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening.
$200 bonus
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.49% – 29.74% (Variable)
Credit score
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
Earn 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center, 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose, 2% cash back on one everyday category such as gas stations, grocery stores or restaurants, and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
Editor’s take
Pros
No annual fee.
Introductory APR on both purchases and balance transfers.
High reward potential on selected bonus categories.
Cons
$25 minimum for cash back redemption.
Cash-back rewards expire.
Charges a balance transfer fee.
The 91Ӱ Bank Cash+ credit card lets you choose your own bonus categories from a long list of options. Plus, it comes with a solid welcome bonus and low intro APR offer. Be sure to pay attention to the fine print for details about redemption minimums and reward expiration.
Card details
Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center, 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories of choice, 2% cash back on one everyday category (like gas stations, grocery stores and restaurants) and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
Welcome bonus: $200 rewards bonus after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles, then a variable APR of 19.49% to 29.74%. A balance transfer fee of 3% ($5 minimum) applies and balances transferred must be completed within 60 days.
Foreign transaction fees: 3% of each foreign transaction.
Perks and benefits: Earn more cash back through the Rewards Center Earn Mall, $25 minimum on cash back redemption, Cash back rewards expire at the end of the calendar month 36 months after the billing cycle in which they were earned.
Best for online shopping
Prime Visa
*
The information for the Prime Visa has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
Welcome bonus
As a Prime member, get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly loaded into your Amazon account’s Gift Card Balance upon approval of your credit card application.
$100 Amazon Gift Card
Annual fee
$0 with Prime membership
Regular APR
20.49% – 29.24% Variable
Credit score
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
Earn 5% Back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership, 5% back on travel booked through Chase, 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare), and 1% back on all other purchases.
Editor’s take
Pros
Generous rewards rate on Amazon purchases.
No minimum redemption for cash back.
Doesn’t charge an annual fee or foreign transaction fee.
Cons
Requires an Amazon Prime membership.
Rewards are just OK for purchases outside Amazon and Whole Foods.
Welcome bonus is low compared to some competing cards.
If packages from Amazon.com flow to your door faster than the Amazon River itself moves, this might be the right rewards credit card for you. It does require a Prime membership, but for those who are already avid Prime shoppers, this card’s generous cash-back program makes it worth adding to your wallet.
Card details
Annual fee: $0 with Prime membership.
Rewards: 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership, 5% back on travel booked through Chase, 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare), and 1% back on all other purchases.
Welcome bonus: $100 Amazon gift card for Prime members upon approval.
APR: This card does not offer traditional 0% intro APR periods. However, cardholders may be eligible to choose a 0% APR period where they make equal monthly payments ranging from six to 18 months on qualifying purchases of $50 or more. After that a variable APR of 20.49% to 29.24% applies. A balance transfer fee of either $5 or 4% of each transfer, whichever is greater, applies.
Foreign transaction fees: None.
Perks and benefits: Visa Signature Concierge, extended warranty, purchase protection, baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, travel accident insurance and the option for promotional financing (without rewards) on purchases of $50 or more.
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Good, Excellent (700 – 749)
Best for unlimited rewards
$0
Up to $300 cash back
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 Travel℠, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – 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.
As a Prime member, get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly loaded into your Amazon account’s Gift Card Balance upon approval of your credit card application.
Best cash-back credit cards of September 2024
Best for groceries at 91Ӱ supermarkets and at 91Ӱ gas stations: Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Why it’s the best
If you spend big on groceries at 91Ӱ supermarkets or on gas in the 91Ӱ, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express (terms apply, ) offers some of the highest cash-back credit card rates available in these categories. Although 91Ӱ supermarket spending is subject to an annual spending cap, you can still earn considerable rewards in this category throughout the year. The card offers one of the highest rates available for purchases at 91Ӱ gas stations year-round, with no spending cap.
Pros:
Generous cash back in several everyday categories.
Lucrative welcome bonus.
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Cons:
Annual fee after the first year.
Annual spending cap on rewards at 91Ӱ supermarkets.
No flexible redemption options.
Card details:
Annual fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Rewards: 6% cash back at 91Ӱ supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select 91Ӱ streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at 91Ӱ gas stations, 3% cash back on transit and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Rewards Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or for eligible items at Amazon.com checkout.
Welcome bonus: $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases in the first six months of card membership.
Credit score: Good, Excellent.
Best for flat rate: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Why it’s the best
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers straightforward cash back with no spending caps or categories to track. With a high flat rate on all spending, you can earn elevated cash back no matter what you’re buying, including on charges not typically covered in bonus categories, such as bills. You’ll also get a decent intro APR on purchases meaning you can earn cash back on big expenses and enjoy extra time to pay them off without interest.
Pros:
High flat-rate cash rewards on all spending.
Attainable welcome offer.
Cellphone protection.
Cons:
Foreign transaction fee.
No bonus categories.
Limited additional perks.
Card details:
Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 2% cash rewards on purchases.
Welcome bonus: $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months of account opening.
Credit score: Good, Excellent.
Best for customized rewards: Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
*
The information for the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Why it’s the best
The Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card is ideal for cash-back maximizers. You can choose which category you want for your highest earning rate and change it as often as every month. Categories eligible for the highest rate include gas and EV charging stations, online shopping, dining, travel, drugstores, and home improvement and furnishings.
Unique to Bank of America’s rewards cards is the Preferred Rewards program, which can add 25% to 75% rewards boost for those who hold qualifying accounts with the bank or Merrill. This means those at the highest tier could earn an eye-popping 5.25% in the highest rewards category with the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card.
Pros:
Choose your preferred cash-back category.
Solid welcome bonus.
No annual fee.
Cons:
Foreign transaction fee.
Spending caps on elevated cash back.
Limited additional perks.
Card details:
Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 3% cash back in the category of your choice, 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (on up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Welcome bonus: $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Credit score: Good, Excellent.
Best for unlimited rewards: Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Why it’s the best
The Chase Freedom Unlimited separates itself from other cash-back cards with its absence of spending or rewards caps. Most rewards cards offer high rewards in some areas and a meager 1% in others, but every purchase you make with the Chase Freedom Unlimited will earn above-average cash back.
Plus, the card comes packed with perks like purchase protection, extended warranty protection, trip cancellation and interruption coverage, secondary car rental collision coverage and access to travel and emergency assistance.
Pros:
Elevated base rewards rate.
No spending caps.
No annual fee.
Cons:
Foreign transaction fee.
Best redemption values require another Chase card.
Requires good to excellent credit.
Card details:
Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on eligible dining and drugstore purchases and 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
Welcome bonus: 1.5% back on everything bought in the first year on up to $20,000 in spending, which is worth up to $300.
Credit score: Good, Excellent.
Best for welcome bonus: Discover it® Cash Back
Why it’s the best
The Discover it Cash Back offers great cash back for dynamic spenders, with its rotating categories that can cover everything from groceries and gas to streaming subscriptions and online shopping, depending on the quarter. But where this card really shines is its unique welcome offer.
With no spending requirements or maximum bonus amount, the card’s welcome offer is easy to attain with your regular spending over the year and Discover will automatically match all the cash back earned at the end of the first cardmember year. And that’s not even considering your non-bonus category spending.
Pros:
Generous rewards in quarterly rotating categories.
Discover will automatically match all the cash back earned at the end of the first cardmember year.
No annual fee.
Cons:
Spending cap of $1,500 per quarter on highest rewards.
Low base rewards rate.
Quarterly categories may not be relevant for you.
Card details:
Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 5% cash back on purchases at different places each quarter up to $1,500 spent each quarter when activated and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Welcome bonus: Discover will automatically match all the cash back earned at the end of the first cardmember year.
Credit score: Good, Excellent.
Best cash-back credit card: Chase Freedom Flex®
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The information for the Chase Freedom Flex® has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Why it’s the best
This workhorse of a card earns elevated rewards across a broader selection of categories than any other cash-back card, making it a fit for nearly anyone who wants to earn strong rewards on every day spending. The Chase Freedom Flex also comes with a robust list of benefits not commonly found on no-annual-fee cards, including cellphone insurance, trip cancellation/interruption coverage and purchase and extended warranty coverage.
You can also transfer rewards to a premium Ultimate Rewards®-earning card and enjoy 25% to 50% more value for travel bookings via the Chase Travel℠ portal.
Pros:
Generous cash back potential.
Low intro APR offers for purchases and balance transfers.
No annual fee.
Cons:
Rotating categories require activation.
Foreign transaction fee.
Best redemption values require another Chase card.
Card details:
Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in categories that rotate quarterly (requires activation), 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on dining and drugstores and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Welcome bonus: $150 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.
Credit score: Good, Excellent.
Best for high rewards in uncommon categories: 91Ӱ Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
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The information for the 91Ӱ Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Why it’s the best
The 91Ӱ Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card offers exceptional rewards in areas not commonly available for high rewards on most other cash-back cards. Categories eligible for the highest rewards rate are broad and include the following: TV, Internet and streaming services, fast food, cellphone providers, department stores, home utilities, select clothing stores, electronics stores, sporting goods stores, movie theaters, gyms/fitness centers, furniture stores and ground transportation.
Pros:
Choose your top two bonus categories each quarter.
Unique categories to choose from.
No annual fee.
Cons:
Activation required for bonus categories every quarter.
Limited additional benefits.
Requires planning to maximize bonus categories.
Card details:
Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center, 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories of choice, 2% cash back on one everyday category (like gas stations, grocery stores and restaurants) and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
Welcome bonus: $200 rewards bonus after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Credit score: Good, Excellent.
Best for online shopping: Prime Visa
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The information for the Prime Visa has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Why it’s the best
Anyone with an Amazon Prime membership who regularly shops with the online retailer can find benefit in owning the Prime Visa card. It offers a stellar cash-back rate on purchases at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market, as well as bonus cash back on . No other card offers the unlimited high rewards potential that this one does.
Pros:
Great rewards on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases.
Bonus cash back on select Amazon purchases.
Automatic welcome bonus with no spending requirement.
Cons:
Requires Prime membership for highest cash back.
Low rewards on non-Amazon spending.
Lackluster welcome bonus.
Card details:
Annual fee: $0 with Prime membership. An Amazon Prime membership is required to apply, which starts at $139 a year ($69 for students).
Rewards: 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership, 5% back on travel booked through Chase, 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare), and 1% back on all other purchases.
Welcome bonus: $100 Amazon gift card for Prime members upon approval.
Credit score: Good, Excellent.
Methodology
Our credit cards team has spent hours analyzing hundreds of credit cards. We took a deep dive into the details of each product and that analysis, combined with our years of experience covering credit cards, informed us as we developed these credit card rankings. Factors we considered when evaluating the best balance transfer cards included:
Annual earnings: 77%.
Welcome bonus: 10%.
Annual fee: 5%.
Membership requirement/Location restriction: 3%.
Foreign exchange fees: 2%.
Purchase protection: 1%.
Cellphone insurance: 1%.
Extended warranty: 1%.
What is a cash-back card?
A cash-back card is a type of rewards credit card that earns a percentage back on your spending. ’s how a cash-back card works: While some rewards cards give you points or miles with values that vary, cash-back cards specifically pay you in dollars. For example, if you spend $100 on a cash-back card that earns 2%, you’ll get $2 back on your spending.
You can typically apply your cash back as a statement credit to your balance or, if your card offers it, redeem your rewards in other ways like a direct deposit, a check mailed to you, a gift card or to book travel.
Types of cash-back cards
The top rated cash-back credit cards generally come in one of three varieties: Flat-rate, rotating categories and tiered rewards. ’s how each type works:
[Source: USA Today Blueprint]
Flat-rate cash-back cards
A flat-rate cash-back card earns the same rate on all your spending, regardless of your spending. These cards are a great choice for straightforward earning across the board, especially on spending not typically covered by other cash-back cards, such as bills.
Our list of the best 2% cash-back cards can offer plenty of inspiration to choose a quality card. As a rule of thumb, any card that earns 1.5% or more cash back on your spending is offering a competitive earning rate for a flat-rate card.
Offering 5% cash back on select categories each quarter, rotating category cards can provide high rewards compared to what you’d earn with a flat-rate card. Keep in mind that once you hit the spending cap, the rewards will drop down to 1% cash back.
The challenge with rotating categories is remembering to “activate” the categories each quarter (which just means logging in to your account and opting in to earn the extra rewards) and tracking when you’ve hit the spending cap in a particular quarter.
Discover it® Cash Back: This card earns 5% cash back on purchases at different places each quarter up to $1,500 spent each quarter when activated and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Tiered rewards cash-back cards
Cash-back cards with tiered rewards offer high earnings rates on select categories year-round. For example, a card might give 3% or even 5% cash back on some types of spending, 2% back on other categories and 1% on everything else.
This type of rewards card can provide generous returns in exchange for a little work. Those with the tolerance for tracking more than one card and spending category may also find that pairing a tiered rewards cash-back card with a flat-rate rewards card can help them squeeze maximum earnings out of their credit card spending.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express(terms apply,): This card earns 6% cash back at 91Ӱ supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select 91Ӱ streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at 91Ӱ gas stations, 3% cash back on transit and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Rewards Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or for eligible items at Amazon.com checkout. The card has a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Common cash-back categories
Most cash-back cards that offer elevated rates in different categories of spending are geared towards everyday expenses. Here are some of the most common cash-back categories on rotating and tiered rewards cards:
Supermarkets: Most cards that offer high rewards on groceries have some restrictions like not counting warehouse clubs or discount stores like Costco and Walmart. Some may also exclude supermarkets outside of the 91Ӱ Check your card’s terms and conditions so you’re aware of any exclusions.
Dining: Typically, this category can include dining in restaurants, fast food places, cafes, take-out and food delivery.
Gas/EV charging: Not all cards have added EV charging when it comes to rewards on filling up your card so make sure to read the fine print.
Entertainment: This category can vary from issuer to issuer and can cover everything from live concerts and sporting events to bowling alleys and aquariums. Make sure you familiarize yourself with what’s eligible for elevated cash-back if you have a card that earns higher rewards on having fun.
Streaming services: Popular services like Spotify, Netflix, Hulu and more fit into this category.
Travel: Most cards count airfare, hotels and cruises as travel. Some also include ferries, tolls, parking garages and other less-commonly thought of types of travel expenses.
How to choose the best cash-back card for you
Choosing a credit card with the best cash back structure for you requires figuring out what you spend the most money on and what other perks and benefits might be of value to you. The best cash-back rewards credit card for you is likely to look different from the best card for someone else.
Here are a few considerations to keep in mind when choosing one of the best credit cards for cash rewards:
1. How much work do you want to put in? If you don’t mind tracking your spending on a card and being mindful of any spending caps, a card with tiered or rotating rewards could be right for you. If you just want to earn simple rewards across the board, a flat-rate card is going to be a better fit.
2. Does the card’s rewards structure match up with your spending habits? There’s little point in getting a card that earns high rewards on grocery spending if you rarely use your kitchen. Choose a card that aligns with where you tend to spend the most money.
3. Does your spending exceed any spending caps? If you consistently have high spending in capped categories, it’s probably going to be more rewarding to go with a card that earns an unlimited flat rate.
4.Are there additional features you can benefit from? Two competing cards may have the same rewards structure, but one may offer you useful perks like cellphone insurance or extended warranty protection if you pay with the card.
To maximize the value of your cash-back card, aim to do the following:
Choose the right card for your spending habits. Pick a card that aligns with the way you spend your money.
Try not to carry a balance. Interest charges will quickly eat away at the value of any cash-back earnings.
Make sure you redeem your rewards. Regularly redeeming your cash-back rewards will ensure you’re benefiting from your cash-back card and can help reduce your monthly statements.
Consider pairing your card with another. There’s no such thing as one perfect card for all your spending needs and it may make sense to own more than one card to get maximum value from every dollar you spend.
Is a cash-back card right for you?
“Cash-back cards are fantastic because the reward, cash, is something that everyone understands. There is no need to worry about understanding how points or miles are converted into a reward,” says , consumer credit expert, founder of CreditExpertWitness.com.
Cash-back credit cards can be a great way to score savings on your everyday spending. But there is a catch. If you tend to carry a balance, the amount you’ll pay in interest will likely be greater than the value of any cash-back rewards you earn. For those who can and do pay off their balance each month, using a cash-back credit card is like getting a discount every time you shop.
Ultimately, anyone who pays their balance in full each month can benefit from a cash-back card.
Can’t make headway on a high-interest credit card balance? Our guide to the best 0% intro APR cards can help you choose a card that can help you tackle that debt.
Alternatives to cash-back credit cards
If you aren’t sure if a cash-back card is right for you, here are some of the best credit card alternative options:
A low-interest card. Earning rewards on a card, cash back or otherwise, only makes sense if you aren’t carrying a balance from month-to-month. Most rewards cards come with double-digit interest rates for revolving a balance and will quickly outweigh the value of any rewards. Choose a card with either an upfront 0% APR period if you plan to knock out your debt quickly or a long, ongoing low APR if you often carry a balance.
A card for those new to credit or rebuilding credit. If your credit is less-than-stellar, you may not qualify for one of the top cash-back cards. If that’s the case, consider a card designed for building credit before applying for a card with a generous rewards structure.
Travel rewards card. Frequent travelers can benefit from the perks that come with travel credit cards. These card add-ons can include a free checked bag perk, elite hotel status, travel protections and benefits and an array of extras that can make the cost of any annual fees well worth it.
Cash-back credit cards earn a percentage back on your spending, typically 1% to 5% depending on the card (there are even cards that earn up to 6% back on select spending).
Earning rewards is automatic, although most credit cards with rotating categories require that you activate the new categories each quarter to get the higher rewards rate. Redeeming rewards generally requires you to log in to your account and take action, whether that’s applying a statement credit to your account or using your rewards to purchase gift cards or to book travel if your issuer allows.
Each card and issuing bank has their own policies when it comes to the expiration date of any accumulated cash-back earnings. While many credit cards have cash back rewards that won’t expire as long as the account is open and in good standing, check the fine print to see what your card’s policy is.
The IRS generally considers cash-back earnings from a credit card to be similar to a rebate and therefore not subject to income tax. Similar to how you wouldn’t have to pay income tax on using coupons or using a store rebate for a purchase, your cash-back rewards are typically considered not taxable.
The credit cards with best cash back include two that offer a hard-to-beat cash-back rate of 6% back are the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the 91Ӱ Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card*The information for the 91Ӱ Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.. But, there are limitations to earning at that rate:
The Blue Cash Preferred card has a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 and earns 6% cash back at 91Ӱ supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select 91Ӱ streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at 91Ӱ gas stations, 3% cash back on transit and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Rewards Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or for eligible items at Amazon.com checkout.
The 91Ӱ Bank Shopper Cash Rewards card has a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 and earns 6% cash back each quarter on combined purchases from two retailers of choice ($1,500 limit), 5.5% cash back on prepaid car and hotel reservations booked through the Rewards Center, 3% cash back each quarter in one everyday category of choice ($1,500 limit) and 1.5% cash back on everything else.
Cash-back cards are worth having if you want to earn money on your spending. Just make sure you take the time to understand your particular card’s terms and conditions so you know how to get the most out of earning and redeeming your cash-back.
Credit cards are not one-size-fits-all. The best cash-back card for you is likely going to be different to the best card for someone else. Choose a cash-back card that aligns with the way you spend, and consider your tolerance for tracking tiered or rotating categories to find the card that’s right for you.
For rates and fees for the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express please visit this .
Editor’s Note:This article contains updated information from previously published stories:
*The information for the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card, Chase Freedom Flex®, Prime Visa, 91Ӱ Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card and 91Ӱ Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card has been collected independently by Blueprint.
The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.
Grace Pilling is a deputy editor for credit cards at 91Ӱ Blueprint. She believes credit cards are the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure tools of the financial world and gets excited about helping people discover the best credit card strategy for their unique goals. Prior to joining Blueprint, Grace worked on and led personal finance teams at Bankrate, CreditCards.com, MoneyUnder30 and MoneyGeek. She has a bachelor’s degree in English and writing and a diploma in editing and publishing.
Robin Saks Frankel is a credit cards lead editor at 91Ӱ Blueprint. Previously, she was a credit cards and personal finance deputy editor for Forbes Advisor. She has also covered credit cards and related content for other national web publications including NerdWallet, Bankrate and HerMoney. She's been featured as a personal finance expert in outlets including CNBC, Business Insider, CBS Marketplace, NASDAQ's Trade Talks and has appeared on or contributed to The New York Times, Fox News, CBS Radio, ABC Radio, NPR, International Business Times and NBC, ABC and CBS TV affiliates nationwide. She holds an M.S. in Business and Economics Journalism from Boston University. Follow her on Twitter at @robinsaks.
