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Cash back credit cards are a useful tool to get paid back for the things you buy every day. Cash back is typically easy to understand and redeem, which is great for on-the-go folks who like to keep it simple. Cash back is also the most flexible form of rewards, allowing you to spend your earnings however you’d like.
For the simplicity lover, some cards offer a flat cash back rate on all purchases – usually between 1% and 2%. Other cash back cards offer a higher rewards rate on specific purchase categories like dining or groceries.
We analyzed 682 cash back card offers and narrowed them down to our top recommendations for a variety of lifestyles. Browse our picks for the best cash back offers from our partners and find a card that fits your spending habits.
Cash back credit cards are a useful tool to get paid back for the things you buy every day. Cash back is typically easy to understand and redeem, which is great for on-the-go folks who like to keep it simple. Cash back is also the most flexible form of rewards, allowing you to spend your earnings however you’d like.
For the simplicity lover, some cards offer a flat cash back rate on all purchases – usually between 1% and 2%. Other cash back cards offer a higher rewards rate on specific purchase categories like dining or groceries.
We analyzed 682 cash back card offers and narrowed them down to our top recommendations for a variety of lifestyles. Browse our picks for the best cash back offers from our partners and find a card that fits your spending habits.
Our rating:4.1
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. The score seen here reflects the card's primary category rating. For more information, you can read about how we rate our cards.
Good to Excellent
Credit Recommended (670-850)
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter.
1%
Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
At A Glance
Intro bonus
$200
Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $750 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
Our rating:3.2
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. The score seen here reflects the card's primary category rating. For more information, you can read about how we rate our cards.
Good to Excellent
Credit Recommended (670-850)
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Our rating:3.6
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. The score seen here reflects the card's primary category rating. For more information, you can read about how we rate our cards.
Good to Excellent
Credit Recommended (670-850)
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Our rating:4.0
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. The score seen here reflects the card's primary category rating. For more information, you can read about how we rate our cards.
Good to Excellent
Credit Recommended (670-850)
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 8% cash back on tickets at Vivid Seats through January 2023.
3%
Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®).
1%
Earn 1% on all other purchases.
At A Glance
Intro bonus
$200
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Our rating:4.2
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. The score seen here reflects the card's primary category rating. For more information, you can read about how we rate our cards.
Good to Excellent
Credit Recommended (670-850)
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Our rating:4.0
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. The score seen here reflects the card's primary category rating. For more information, you can read about how we rate our cards.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
6%
6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
3%
3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more.
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
1%
1% Cash Back on other purchases
At A Glance
Intro bonus
Up to $350
Earn 20% back on Amazon.com purchases on the Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $200 back. Plus, earn $150 back after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. You will receive cash back in the form of statement credits.
Our rating:4.5
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. The score seen here reflects the card's primary category rating. For more information, you can read about how we rate our cards.
Good to Excellent
Credit Recommended (670-850)
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Our rating:4.5
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. The score seen here reflects the card's primary category rating. For more information, you can read about how we rate our cards.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations and when you pay using PayPal, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.
1%
Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
At A Glance
Intro bonus
Cashback Match™
Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
Our rating:3.9
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. The score seen here reflects the card's primary category rating. For more information, you can read about how we rate our cards.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%).
2%
2% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations and at select U.S. department stores.
1%
1% Cash Back on other purchases.
At A Glance
Intro bonus
Up to $250
Earn 20% back on Amazon.com purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card membership, up to $150 back. Plus, earn $100 back after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of card membership. You will receive cash back in the form of statement credits.
Our rating:4.2
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. The score seen here reflects the card's primary category rating. For more information, you can read about how we rate our cards.
Good to Excellent
Credit Recommended (670-850)
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Our rating:3.8
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. The score seen here reflects the card's primary category rating. For more information, you can read about how we rate our cards.
Up to 6% cash back by referring friends! Limited time only: Start with 1%, get to 3% cash back by successfully referring just two friends! Promotional cash back rate lasts for a full year.
Our rating:4.1
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. The score seen here reflects the card's primary category rating. For more information, you can read about how we rate our cards.
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations and when you pay using PayPal, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.
1%
Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
At A Glance
Intro bonus
Cashback Match™
Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! 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.
Editorial disclosure: All reviews are prepared by CreditCards.com staff. Opinions expressed therein are solely those of the reviewer and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, presented in the review is accurate as of the date of the review. Check the data at the top of this page and the bank's website for the most current information.
All information about the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card, U.S. Bank Cash+™️ Visa Signature®️ Card and Alliant Visa®️ Signature Credit Card has been collected independently by CreditCards.com. The issuer did not provide the content, nor is it responsible for its accuracy.
A guide to cash back credit cards
It’s clear that Americans love cash back, according to a recent survey by Bankrate. Of those rewards cardholders surveyed, 56% said they redeemed for cash back versus only 15% who redeemed for travel.
With so many credit card offers on the market, it can be tough to decide which cash back card is going to give you the most value. To make it easier for you, our experts at CreditCards.com have pulled together the best cash back credit cards for every lifestyle. Choosing a credit card is an important financial decision, so we lay out the pros and cons for you all in one place.
Citi Custom Cash℠ Card: Best for automatically maximizing cash back
Why we picked it: This brand new no annual fee credit card from Citi lets you earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent (after that, 1% cash back). You also earn unlimited 1% cash back on general purchases. You don’t have to enroll in rotating bonus categories or guess which category you might spend the most in to maximize your rewards. Instead, as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earnings adjust automatically. Eligible categories include restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, select travel, select transit, select streaming services, drugstores, home improvement stores, fitness clubs and live entertainment.
Pros: The card touts a generous sign-up bonus: Earn $200 in cash back (paid out in ThankYou points) after you spend $750 in your first three months of account opening. Plus, there’s a 15-month 0% intro APR on balance transfers and purchases (variable 13.99% to 23.99%, after that).
Cons: The $500-per-billing cycle cap on your 5% cash back (then 1%) limits the card’s value. (It’s comparable to the $1,500 quarterly cap associated with popular rotating cash back credit cards that don’t charge an annual fee like the Discover it Cash Back or Chase Freedom Flex.) You’ll pay a steep 5% balance transfer fee (or $5, whichever is greater) if you take advantage of that offer.
Who should apply? If your spending habits tend to change from month to month and you don’t want to worry about strategically using different credit cards to earn extra cash back, this Citi card is an option.
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for unlimited rewards
Why we picked it: For those who prefer to keep it simple, this great gimmick-free card has no annual fee and offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
Pros: Rewards remain valid for the life of the account and there are no caps on how much you can earn. There’s also no minimum you have to meet to start redeeming cash back. You can earn $200 if you spend $500 in your first three months of card membership. There’s also a 15-month 0% introductory APR on purchases (then variable 15.49% to 25.49%).
Cons: While unlimited rewards are an attractive offer, note that the Citi Double Cash earns a higher flat-rate cash back at 2% (1% when you buy and 1% as you pay off the purchase) without charging an annual fee (though that card doesn’t include a welcome offer).
Who should apply? While there are plenty of other cards out there offering much higher cash back rates, the unlimited 1.5% back on every purchase has the potential to offer major value for anyone in the market for a pared-down cash back card. (Learn more about the different 1.5% cash back credit cards on the market.)
Citi® Double Cash Card: Best for flat-rate cash back
Why we picked it: Offering 1% on general purchases (excluding gift cards) and then an additional 1% cash back as you pay off those purchases, the Citi Double Cash boasts one of the most competitive rewards rates of all cash back cards and is a clear standout among flat-rate cash back cards that don’t charge an annual fee.
Pros: Cash back rewards can be converted to ThankYou points, which can be redeemed for travel purchases, gift cards and more for a rate of $1 cash back to 100 ThankYou points. Plus, there’s a lengthy 18-month 0% introductory APR on balance transfers (then variable 13.99% to 23.99%).
Cons: There’s no sign-up bonus. Also, the rewards expire if the card isn’t used in more than 12 months. You’ll pay a balance transfer fee of 3% or $5, whichever is greater.
Who should apply? This uncomplicated flat-rate cash back card would be a good match for someone who values flexibility, particularly for existing Citi customers already earning ThankYou points. The 18-month intro APR is also a solid option for anyone mulling over the idea of a balance transfer.
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for dining and entertainment
Why we picked it: Capital One recently sweetened the rewards associated with both of its popular Savor cards. The SavorOne now offers a hefty 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and grocery store purchases (excluding superstores like Target® and Walmart®), 1% cash back on all other purchases plus, earn 8% cash back on tickets at Vivid Seats through January 2023 and a $200 welcome bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months of opening an account.
Pros: The card doesn’t charge an annual fee. Rewards don’t expire for the life of the account and there are no limits on cash back.
Who should apply? Foodies will like the SavorOne for its generous cash back on dining, grocery store purchases and entertainment purchases. Big spenders will appreciate the lack of spending caps for these categories.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card: Best for flexible cash back categories
Why we picked it: The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card, you have the freedom to change your bonus category once per calendar month, allowing you to tailor your rewards to your spending habits. That’s especially handy when your summer budget may skew more heavily toward gas or travel, but you spend more on online shopping during the holidays. Bonus categories include gas, online shopping, travel, drug stores, dining and home improvement/furnishings. If you plan ahead, this card can be exceptionally valuable, especially since there’s no annual fee.
Pros: Cardholders earn 3% cash back on the category of their choice, plus 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (on first $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club purchases each quarter, then earn 1%). There’s a competitive sign-up bonus: Earn $200 if you spend $1,000 in your first 90 days. That amount matches the highest current cash back bonus, though some cards, like the Chase Freedom Unlimited®, have a lower required spend ($200 if you spend $500 in your first three months.) Bank of America customers with at least $20,000 across checking or savings accounts can qualify for a 25% to 75% rewards boost through the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program.
Cons: Rewards are limited to cash back. There’s also a $2,500 combined spend cap on 2% and 3% reward categories for each quarter. Frequent travelers may be put off by the 3% foreign transaction fee and lack of travel benefits.
Who should apply? This straightforward cash back card offers plenty of flexibility for moderate spenders who prefer to change up their bonus categories every so often. Bank of America account holders should also consider this card, given the potential for a rewards boost.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best for U.S. supermarkets
Why we picked it: Offering supreme cash back rates (6% for up to $6,000 each year, then 1%) for purchases at U.S. supermarkets as well as 6% back on select U.S. streaming services, this card is a fantastic option for those who prefer their dinner-and-a-movie at home. The introductory offer of a $150 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in the first six months of card membership along with up to 20% back on Amazon.com purchases within the first six months (up to $200 back) is a great way to help pay for some of those groceries.
Pros: The 6% cash back rate at U.S. supermarkets (for up to $6,000 each year, then 1%) is incredibly high. Plus, there are no rotating categories or enrollment to worry about, and rewards can be redeemed on past purchases. There’s also a 12-month 0% introductory APR on purchases (then variable 13.99% to 23.99%).
Cons: Some may find the annual fee of $95 (waived for the first year) a tad steep, but it’s worth remembering the high rewards rates. We estimate a Blue Cash Preferred cardholder needs to spend $3,200 per year on groceries (or $267 per month) to beat the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express, which offers lower rewards in exchange for no annual fee. (Learn how to decide which Blue Cash card is right for you.)
Who should apply? Families, foodies, and anyone with a daily commute can benefit from this card’s excellent cash back rates on groceries and gas.
Chase Freedom Unlimited®: Best for introductory APR on purchases
Why we picked it: It’s safe to say you have plenty of opportunities to earn cash back with the Chase Freedom Unlimited. You’ll earn a standard 1.5% on all purchases, plus boosted rewards in practical everyday categories, including 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% cash back on dining, 3% cash back on drugstores and 5% cash back on Lyft purchases (through March 2022). As a welcome bonus, you can earn $200 after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months of opening an account.
Pros: A newly spruced-up rewards model and a favorable cash back rate on general purchases make it easy to rack up rewards. Plus, there are no caps on cash back and rewards don’t expire. There’s also a lengthy 15-month 0% introductory APR on purchases (then variable 14.99% to 23.74%).
Cons: There’s no annual bonus, though that may not deter many considering the lack of rewards limits and the competitive return rate.
Who should apply? This is a solid rewards card for anyone hoping to earn cash back on everyday purchases, with generous bonus opportunities on Ultimate Rewards travel, dining and drugstore spending.
Discover it® Cash Back: Best for rotating categories
Why we picked it: With the Discover it Cash Back, you’ll have the opportunity to earn a generous 5% cash back bonus on everyday, useful categories (up to $1,500 upon enrollment each quarter, then 1%) that rotate each quarter.
Pros: Discover will automatically match all of your cash back earnings at the end of the first year. There’s a 14-month 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers (then variable 11.99% to 22.99%). Discover has a few consumer-friendly policies attached to its popular credit cards, including no foreign transaction fees, a free FICO credit score and no fee for a first missed payment (up to $40 for any payment missed after that).
Cons: The 5% cash back rate is limited to $1,500 in combined purchases per quarter (then 1%). (If you anticipate spending more than that, consider a flat-rate cash back card like the Citi® Double Cash Card.) You don’t get to choose bonus categories; Discover sets them each year. (See the Discover it Cash Back 2021 calendar.) You must remember to enroll each quarter in order to earn that bonus cash back.
Who should apply? If you’re strategic enough in your spending to take advantage of its rotating bonus categories, the Discover it® Cash Back offers a lot of potential to maximize rewards.
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express: Best for tiered cash back
Why we picked it: This card offers 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 in purchases annually, then 1%), 2% at U.S. gas stations and at select U.S. department stores and then 1% on general purchases.
Pros: As a welcome offer, you’ll earn $100 in statement credits if you spend $2,000 with your card during your first six months of card membership. You’ll also earn 20% back on Amazon.com purchases in your first six months for up to $150 back, also in statement credits. There’s also a 15-month 0% introductory APR on new purchases (then variable 13.99% to 23.99%).
Cons: The yearly $6,000 limit on the 3% purchase category could cut into your potential earnings. Depending on your spending habits, you could earn more with the Blue Cash Preferred, which offers higher rewards, but charges a $95 annual fee (waived the first year).
Who should apply? The Blue Cash Everyday is all about rewarding essential purchases, which is why it’s a great addition to nearly anyone’s wallet.
Chase Freedom Flex℠: Best for cash back on eligible travel
Why we picked it: The 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards® can really add up. You can also earn 5% cash back on eligible purchases in rotating categories (up to $1,500 per quarter with quarterly activation required, then 1%) and 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants.
Pros: Reward rates are relatively high for a card with no annual fee. There’s a lucrative sign-up bonus: earn $200 when you spend $500 in your first three months, a nice return for meeting a low spending threshold. You can also take advantage of a lengthy 15-month 0% introductory APR on purchases (then variable 14.99% and 23.74%).
Cons: If the idea of keeping track of all of the cash back categories and the rules that come with each makes your head spin, you might want to look for a different cash back card. That, along with remembering to enroll in the 5% bonus category each quarter, requires some attention and may not be ideal for everyone. If you’re looking for something more low-maintenance, consider a flat-rate cash back card, like the Chase Freedom Unlimited. (Learn how to decide between the Chase Freedom cards.)
Who should apply? Frequent travelers can really benefit from the high cash back rate on travel purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Jasper Cash Back Mastercard®: Best for referral bonus
Why we picked it: Jasper Cash Back Mastercard cardholders start by earning 1% cash back on purchases, but can earn up to a whopping 6% cash back by successfully referring friends. The card carries no annual fee.
Pros: With a limited time offer, you can earn extra cash back more quickly; starting at 1%, you can get 3% cash back by referring two friends at 1% each. Normally, you earn 0.5% cash back for each friend you successfully refer. Your promotional cash back rate lasts for a full year.
Cons: If you can’t successfully refer friends, your earnings will be limited and the cash back program can be confusing, particularly for credit card newbies.
Who should apply? If you consider yourself persuasive enough to take advantage of the friend referral incentives, the 6% cash bonus is very attractive. Otherwise you might have better luck with a flat-rate cash back card instead.
Why we picked it: This product is a top-notch student credit card: Earn a $20 statement credit each year for up to the next five years that you have a 3.0 GPA or better. In addition, earn 5% cash back on rotating categories (then 1%; activation required each quarter and $1,500 limit each quarter), up to $300 a year on the 5% offer.
Pros: At the end of your first year, match your earnings to get up to $600. Plus, there’s no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.
Cons: For students who are new to credit cards, the rotating categories may be too confusing to use to their full potential.
Who should apply? This card is an ideal match for students hoping to establish credit while also earning cash back rewards.
U.S. Bank Cash+™️ Visa Signature®️ Card: Best for rewards optimizers
Why we picked it: This no annual fee card has a few things over its rotating cash back bonus category competitors. First, it lets you choose two bonus categories each quarter from a list of eligible categories that you can earn 5% cash back on (as opposed to setting the categories for you) and, second, its $2,000 cap on eligible purchases in those categories (then 1%) is higher than competitors. (Most rotating cash back cards cap at around $1,500 in eligible purchases each quarter.) Third, you also earn 2% on one everyday category of your choice, like gas, grocery stores or restaurants. You also get 1% cash back on general purchases.
Pros: You can earn $150 in cash back rewards after making $500 in eligible purchases with your card within 90 days of account opening. There’s also a 12-billing cycle 0% introductory APR on balance transfers made within 60 days of account opening (then variable 13.99% to 23.99%).
Cons: Comparatively speaking, this card isn’t exactly low maintenance: You must choose and enroll in your bonus categories each quarter in order to earn the maximum cash back, and you’ll have to remember what you opted for each time to truly maximize your rewards.
Who should apply? If you’re willing to put the work in, you can earn a significant amount of cash back with this standout rotating bonus category card.
Alliant Visa®️ Signature Credit Card: Best for big spenders
Why we picked it: This card offers an industry-leading flat 2.5% cash back on purchases, though that earnings rate is subject to a cap of $10,000 in qualified purchases (a maximum of $250 in cash back) per billing cycle and, after the first year, you’ll pay a $99 annual fee.
Pros: The card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. You could wind up with a low APR, depending on your creditworthiness, as the card’s range is a variable 12.24% to 22.24%.
Cons: You’ll need to join Alliant’s credit union in order to qualify for the card, though it’s relatively easy to do so. (You can, among other things, make a donation to Alliant’s partner charity Foster Care to Success to join.) The cap on rewards might be high ($10,000 per billing cycle), but it’s still a cap and you don’t earn any cash back once you hit it. (Most cards that have a cap on bonus earnings let you earn 1% back on purchases over the threshold.) Your cash back expires after four calendar years if you don’t redeem rewards. Plus, you need a minimum of $50 in cash back per transaction to redeem.
Who should apply? We estimate people who spend more than $20,000 a year on a credit card can earn more with this card than its closest competitor, the Citi Double Cash Card, which offers a flat-rate 2% cash back on purchases (1% when you buy and 1% as you pay, no cap), but doesn’t charge an annual fee. Also worth noting, you’ll need excellent credit to qualify for the Alliant Visa Signature Credit Card.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
Flexible cash back categories
3% on category of your choice
Also 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
3% cash back on dining
5% cash back on travel through Chase; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases; 5% cash back on Lyft purchases (through March 2022); 1.5% cash back on all other purchases
Up to 6% cash back
Up to 6% cash back by referring friends! Limited time only: Start with 1%, get to 3% cash back by successfully referring just two friends! Promotional cash back rate lasts for a full year.
$0
N/A
Discover it® Student Cash Back
Students
5% in rotating categories
On up to $1,500 in purchases quarterly, then 1% cash back, activation required
5% cash back on two categories of your choice ($2,000 purchase limit per quarter)
2% cash back on your choice of one everyday category, such as gas stations or grocery stores; 1% cash back on other purchases
Cash back rate and categories: Of course, the best cash back credit cards make it easy to earn cash back. That’s why we chose credit cards that offer high rewards rates on common purchases. We understand that “everyday spending” looks different for various lifestyles, so we chose a variety of bonus categories, from travel to groceries to entertainment.
Redemption options: What’s the use of cash back if you can’t redeem it in a way that’s valuable to you? Most cash back cards allow the option to redeem as a statement credit, but some also allow you to redeem as a bank direct deposit, gift card, charitable donation or even a credit toward a loan balance. Since these alternative redemption methods can sometimes add value to your cash back earnings, we weighed all methods of redemption. We also considered ease of redemption since some cards require a minimum cash back balance in order to redeem.
Sign-up bonus: When analyzing a credit card’s overall value, we always think long-term: ongoing rewards rate, fees, etc. But a sign-up bonus is a nice way to kickstart your cash back earnings. The ideal sign-up bonus rewards you generously for a low spending threshold.
Rates and fees: Here, we dug into a few costs that may cut into the card’s potential value. When assessing cards with annual fees, we did the math to ensure that cardholders’ cash back and other benefits could likely surpass that cost. We also avoided cards with sky-high interest rates.
Miscellaneous benefits and features: Additional perks and benefits are rarely the main attraction, but they can be tie-breakers when comparing two similar offers. Features like auto rental insurance and price protection are often overlooked but can save you hundreds if you remember to use them.
What are cash back credit cards and how do they work?
Cash back credit cards are a type of rewards credit card. Unlike other rewards credit cards, which offer redeemable points or miles on purchases, cash back credit cards give a particular dollar amount of each eligible purchase back to the cardholder. Cash back essentially works like a rebate. Because reward points often come with a lot of restrictions in terms of how they can be redeemed, some people may prefer the simplicity of a cash back rewards card.
Exactly how much cash you earn back per purchase will vary depending on the terms of your card and the type of purchase you make. Let’s say you spend $500 each month in a category with a cash back rate of 5%. That means you earn $25 a month, just for card loyalty ($500 X .05 = $25). Sometimes there are spending limits, which is why it’s important to read through a card’s terms before applying.
When you redeem your cash back, you’ll probably have several options. Most cards allow you to redeem your cash back as a statement credit, which will lower your credit card balance. Direct deposits to your bank account, gift cards and checks are also common redemption options.
You’ll usually need at least fair credit to get a cash back card, so make sure you meet the credit requirements before applying. Cash back cards are best for people who can spend responsibly and pay their bill in full each month. If there’s a chance you might carry a balance from time to time, you’re probably better off with a low interest credit card.
Nearly every cash back card on the market falls into one of three categories, each with its own benefits.
Flat-rate
How they work: Flat-rate cash back cards are probably the simplest type of rewards card you can get. With a flat-rate card, you’ll earn a set amount of cash back, usually between 1% and 2%, on every purchase. Simply set and forget earnings until you want to redeem your rewards.
Benefits: Depending on your spending habits, there’s the potential to earn quite a lot in rewards.
Drawbacks: On the flip side, you could also lose out on rewards by not using a card with bonus categories that you would frequently spend more than on everyday purchases.
Who they’re best for: Since there’s no need to strategize spending, this type of cash back card is great for first-time cardholders and those who want to use just one credit card for the majority of their expenses.
A great option: The Citi® Double Cash Card. Earn 1% cash back on general purchases (excluding gift cards) and an additional 1% as you pay off those purchases, effectively 2%.
How they work: One of the best ways to maximize your cash back earnings is to use a tiered card for your most common purchases while using a flat-rate card for miscellaneous expenses. That way, you get the best of both worlds and you never have to settle for a low rate of cash back.
Benefits: Cash back rates for tiered categories can be quite high. If your card offers 3% to 5% cash back in supermarkets and you spend a lot on weekly grocery runs, you stand to earn a decent amount.
Drawbacks: If your card’s featured tiered categories are mismatched with your personal spending habits, you’ll miss out on cash back.
Who they’re best for: A cash back card with tiered categories is a great choice if you have regular expenses within particular categories, like gas or groceries.
A great option: the Chase Freedom Flex℠. Earn 5% cash back on rotating bonus categories that you must activate each quarter (on up to $1,500 per quarter, 1% thereafter), 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% cash back on dining and 3% cash back on drugstore purchases.
Rotating or customizable bonus category
How they work: This type of cash back card is very similar to a tiered category card, the main difference being that the categories change, usually each quarter. There are even cards that allow you to choose and change your own bonus category once per calendar month, like the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card.
Benefits: Rotating categories often correspond with the time of year, which can help you make the most of seasonal expenses, like holiday purchases or a summer road trip.
Drawbacks: Keeping track of changing categories can be too much work for some users who then risk losing out on rewards.
Who they’re best for: If you’re fairly organized, able to follow along with quarterly category updates and can be strategic in your spending, a rotating or customizable bonus category rewards program is a great fit.
A great option: the Discover it® Cash Back. Enroll every quarter to earn 5% cash back in a new category (on up to $1,500 per quarter, then 1%).
Common cash back categories
Each credit card offers unique perks, and the rewards landscape is always expanding. In fact, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, some credit cards have added new rewards categories like streaming service subscriptions and food delivery services.
That said, there are a few fan-favorite bonus categories you can find with many rewards credit cards. Here are some of the most popular rewards categories.
Groceries – This is one of the most common and useful categories, especially for large families. Just be sure that your grocery store of choice actually qualifies for the rewards category; some grocery rewards programs exclude wholesalers like Costco and superstores like Target and Walmart.
Gas – Unless you use public transportation, gas is one of those unavoidable expenses. Why not earn cash back on those purchases?
Travel – If your idea of fun involves boarding a plane, there’s good news: Plenty of credit cards will reward your travel purchases with points or miles you can redeem for more travel.
Dining – Whether you prefer a drive-through, sit-down, or takeout experience, there are lots of credit cards that reward restaurant purchases.
How to choose a cash back credit card
With so many cash back cards to choose from, it helps to know how to compare them. Here are a few of the most important factors to consider:
Rewards rates and categories: It may seem obvious, but you should choose a card with a rewards structure that fits your lifestyle and spending habits. For some, that might mean a flat-rate card that rewards all purchases at 1.5%. For others, that might mean a tiered rewards card that gives a higher cash back rate at grocery stores and then just 1% on everything else. To decide which cash back categories are going to be the most useful to you, take a look at your expenses over the last three months. You might be surprised to learn that you’re spending more on takeout than groceries or that your gas station fill-ups cost more each month than your online shopping habit. Whatever you find, looking at an entire month of expenses can help you confidently pick the best cash back card for you.
Annual fee: Luckily, there are plenty of lucrative cash back cards that come without an annual fee. These are great for credit card beginners and those who don’t plan to spend a lot on their card. However, big spenders might find the higher rewards rates offered by annual fee cards to be worth it. If you’re trying to decide, some quick math can give you an idea of whether it makes sense to choose a card with an annual fee. For example, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express has an annual fee of $95 and a cash back rate is 6% at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%). You would have to spend around $1,670 before making up the cost of the annual fee. Since most cash back cards have more than just one bonus category, you might need to do the math for each to get the full picture.
Welcome bonus: Most cash back cards have a welcome bonus, usually around $150 or more after a set amount of spend within a specific timeframe. Cash back cards with an annual fee may have higher offers.
Flexibility: Redemption options will vary by card and most people will prefer a cash back card that offers plenty of flexibility. Often you can apply the cash back you’ve earned to your balance, or, if your checking account is linked, the cash back can be paid into your bank account. In some cases you may be able to convert your cash back into points or miles for use with airlines, hotels and other participating transfer partners. Rewards may be redeemed for merchandise, services, and even gift cards. It’s important to note that values can differ by redemption method. For example, your rewards may stretch a little further when redeemed with an airline as opposed to credited to your card balance. Another point of consideration: many cards require a rewards minimum before allowing you to redeem.
Other perks and benefits: Some cards come with extra perks that add long-term value. For example, the Wells Fargo Cash Wise Visa® card is famous for offering up to $600 worth of cellphone protection against covered damage and theft (subject to a $25 deductible) to cardholders who use the card to pay their monthly phone bills. The Chase Freedom Flex℠ also offers cell phone protection of up to $800 per claim, and $1,000 per year against theft and damage. Other common perks to look out for include auto rental insurance, price protection, travel insurance, and food delivery service memberships.
How to maximize cash back
Match yourself with a card that best suits your spending habits
Before you choose a card, take a hard look at your budget and identify the areas where you’re spending the most. If a good portion of your budget goes towards groceries, it makes sense to seek out a card that offers a high cash back rate for supermarkets. If in the course of a month you spend a lot of money on a broad range of purchases, a flat-rate card with no cap might offer you the best value.
Strategize spending on bonus categories
With some cards offering cash back rates from 4% to 6% in the higher ranges, bonus categories can be an enormous boon to your rewards earnings. But rotating bonus categories aren’t always easy to keep track of, especially when spending across multiple credit cards. Luckily, many credit cards release bonus categories annually or sometimes quarterly, which gives you a time to strategize. Match these categories with your personal calendar, identifying occasions where you’re most likely to spend such as birthdays, holidays, vacations and weekend getaways.
Pair cards to fill in reward gaps
Even the most robust rewards program will have its limitations. You can fill in those gaps by adding another card in your rotation. Let’s say you have a great flat-rate cash back card like the Citi Double Cash Card and earn 2% on general purchases (1% when you buy combined with an additional 1% cash back as you pay off those purchases) but feel like you’re missing out on potential travel rewards. With its 5% cash back on travel (purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards® ), the Chase Freedom Flex would provide much more value when booking travel.
In the news: Cash back welcome offers get a boost
If you’re thinking about adding a cash back card to your wallet, now sure seems like an excellent time to apply. Card issuers have recently begun to sweeten their welcome offers by rolling out increased cash back rates and higher bonuses.
The Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express now offers a whopping 20% cash back on Amazon purchases and $150 cash back after spending $3,000, both within the first six months of card membership.
The Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express has beefed up its welcome offer to include 20% cash back on Amazon purchases and $100 cash back after spending $2,000, both within the first six months of card membership.
The most valuable cash back card for you depends on how you’ll use the card, but here are some of the favorite categories and the top credit cards in those groups.
Gas: Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi – 4% cash back on eligible gas purchases on the first $7,000 in purchases, 1% thereafter. Bank of America Cash Rewards – 3% on up to $2,500 a quarter in combined purchases including 2% categories (capped at $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club purchases each quarter, then earn 1%).
All categories: Citi® Double Cash Card – 2% cash back on all purchases. Earn 1% as you make purchases and 1% as you pay them off.
Currently, there are several credit cards offering 5% cash back though they all vary slightly. With the Discover it® Cash Back, you can earn 5% cash back on rotating categories (after enrollment), up to $1,500 each quarter, then 1%. Discover will also match your cash back earnings at the end of your first year of card membership.
Meanwhile, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ allows travel junkies to earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, as well as 5% cash back on eligible purchases in rotating categories (up to $1,500 per quarter with quarterly activation required, then 1%).
Influencer types can earn up to 6% cash back when successfully referring their friends to the Jasper Cash Back Mastercard (limited time only: starting at 1%, you can get 3% cash back by referring two friends at 1% each. Normally, you earn 0.5% cash back for each friend you successfully refer).
Since most people have a variety of expenses, a combination of cash back credit cards is probably best if you want to maximize your earnings. However, if you’re just starting out with credit cards or only want to have one card, a flat-rate cash back card is probably the best choice. Rather than tethering you to a specific category or two, flat-rate cards provide long-term value no matter how your budget changes.
The answer depends on your spending habits and how you want to redeem your rewards. Cash back cards are good for those who wish to simply press a button to redeem their rewards for cash. It’s also less common for cash back cards to charge an annual fee, another perk for those who like to keep it simple. On the other hand, travel rewards cards typically offer more bang for your buck in terms of rewards value. However, redeeming your travel rewards may require some extra research and comparison in order to get the best value. Read our full comparison of cash back and travel rewards.
Yes, cash back can expire. The best cash back cards often offer non-expiring rewards, but it’s not a given. With some cards, your rewards might expire after a certain length of time or after an extended period of card inactivity.
Even cards that offer non-expiring rewards typically require the account to still be open in order to access your rewards. In other words, most cards will not allow you to redeem your cash back after you’ve closed your account.
In order for a credit card to be worth getting, two things must be true. First, you must be paying your balance in full each month. Interest payments will almost always be greater than your rewards earnings, so carrying a balance on a cash back card doesn’t make sense as a long-term strategy.
Second, your cash back earnings should be greater than any fees the card charges. Before applying, use your estimated monthly spending on the card to calculate how much cash back you might earn annually. That number should be larger than the annual fee and any other fees you’ll be paying. Luckily, there are plenty of lucrative cash back cards with no annual fee.
About the Author
Tracy Stewart
Tracy Stewart is a personal finance writer specializing in credit card loyalty programs, travel benefits, and consumer protections. He previously covered travel rewards credit cards, budget travel, and aviation news at SmarterTravel Media. His money-saving tips have appeared in the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, Consumer Reports, MarketWatch, Vice, People, the Zoe Report and elsewhere.
About the Editor
Jeanine Skowronski
Jeanine Skowronski is a credit card expert, analyst, and multimedia journalist with over 10 years of experience covering business and personal finance. She has previously served as the Head of Content at Policygenius, Executive Editor of Credit.com, Deputy Editor at American Banker, Staff Reporter at TheStreet and a columnist for Inc. Magazine. Her work has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Fox Business, Business Insider, U.S. News & World Report and more.
About the Reviewer
Ted Rossman
Creditcards.com analyst Ted Rossman has helped consumers make well-informed decisions about credit cards for over ten years. His advice is regularly featured with major media outlets such as the TODAY Show, Good Morning America, the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times among others. He can be reached at ted.rossman@creditcards.com.
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CreditCards.com is an independent, advertising-supported comparison service. The offers that appear on this site are from companies from which CreditCards.com receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site, including, for example, the order in which they may appear within listing categories. Other factors, such as our own proprietary website rules and the likelihood of applicants' credit approval also impact how and where products appear on this site. CreditCards.com does not include the entire universe of available financial or credit offers. CCDC has partnerships with issuers including, but not limited to, American Express, Bank of America, Capital One, Chase, Citi and Discover.
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