16 Best Cash Back Credit Cards of 2024

Cash back credit cards are an easy way to generate income every month. The key is to find cards with the highest rewards that match your spending habits. To help, here is our updated list of the best cash back credit cards.

In 2018 I began saving and investing the cash back rewards we earned from credit cards. In 2019 alone we earned $4,177.83 in credit card rewards. As of February 2020, our balance has grown to $9,306.53. As of 2024, our balance has grown to $42,741.60.

Without sacrificing our lifestyle in any way, we’ve been able to save more than $42,000 by strategically using credit card rewards. To help you maximize your rewards, in this article, we’ll look at the best cash back credit cards available today. We’ll also show you examples of how your rewards for each credit card can grow if you choose to invest them.

Best Cash Back Credit Cards

We divide all rewards credit cards into one of three categories: Daily Driver, Triple Play, and Category King cards. Daily Driver cards should be your first credit card. Daily drivers earn 1.5% to 2% cash back or 2x points or miles on your everyday purchases. Triple Play credit cards earn 3% cash back or 3x points or miles on at least three spending categories. Category King cards earn 5% cash back or 5x points or miles on one or more categories.

Learn more: Introducing the 1-2-3 Cash Back System to Maximize Your Rewards

Daily Driver Credit Cards

The daily driver should be your first credit card and should earn at least 1.5% cash back on your everyday purchases. However, we recommend choosing a card that earns at least 2% on all purchases. If you only want to carry one credit card, make it a daily driver.

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Wells Fargo Active Cash

Our Rating: 4.9

★★★★

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Welcome Offer

Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

19.49%, 24.49% or 29.49% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850

Rewards: Earn unlimited 2% cash back on purchases.

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers a great combination of benefits that make it one of the top cards for everyday spending. You get 2% cash back on every purchase, which admittedly, a lot of cards offer. But you also get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 months from account opening, then 19.49%, 24.49% or 29.49% variable APR. Plus, you get a small welcome bonus. This is also one of the few 2% cash back cards to offer cell phone protection.

2% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

Pros

  • Welcome offer
  • No annual fee
  • 2% cash back

Cons

  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Requires good credit
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/20/2023
810
Not Provided
$2,000
Approved09/18/2024
758
Equifax
$10,000
Approved09/18/2024
772
TransUnion
$10,000
Approved09/18/2024
780
Experian
$10,000
Approved09/21/2024
796
Experian
$30,000
Approved09/02/2023
746
Experian
$6,000
Approved09/02/2023
774
Equifax
$6,000
Approved09/02/2023
786
TransUnion
$6,000
Approved06/03/2023
820
Equifax
$30,000
Approved02/18/2023
800
Not Provided
$20,000
Approved06/23/2023
700
Experian
$30,000
Approved04/14/2023
756
Experian
$13,000
Approved10/23/2023
745
Equifax
$12,000
Approved04/26/2023
743
Experian
$8,000
Approved04/26/2023
751
TransUnion
$8,000
Approved04/26/2023
765
Equifax
$8,000
Approved10/04/2023
721
Experian
$16,000
Approved09/24/2023
763
Experian
$15,000
Approved09/24/2023
784
TransUnion
$15,000
Approved09/24/2023
792
Equifax
$15,000
Approved02/09/2024
723
Not Provided
$8,000
Denied04/01/2023
744
TransUnion
---
Denied04/01/2023
747
Experian
---
Denied04/01/2023
767
Equifax
---

What Is the Value of Your Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card Rewards Over Time?

We mentioned investing credit card rewards at the beginning of this article. We call it Rewards Stacking. In the example below and the others in this article, we’ll assume an annual spend of $24,000. We’ll also adjust the spending categories in a way that makes the most sense for each credit card. You’ll see an estimate of the total annual cash back and how the value can grow if invested at a 9% return for 10 years and 20 years.

Most of the credit cards in this list do not have an annual fee. But, for the ones that do, we will also adjust the calculation to account for the annual fee. Keep in mind when looking at these numbers, we also assume paying your balance in full each month. Otherwise, paying interest on your balance devalues credit card rewards.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
All Purchases$24,0002%$480$7,900$26,595

 Citi® Double Cash Card 

Citi Double Cash

Our Rating: 4.9

★★★★

Citi® Double Cash Card

Welcome Offer

Earn $200 cash back

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

18.49% – 28.49%, Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850

Rewards: Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.

Regular readers know the Citi® Double Cash Card is one of my favorite credit cards. My wife and I have used this card for years and earned thousands of dollars in cash back. This is the card for you if you want a simple cash back structure you don’t have to think about. You get unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase: 1% when you make a purchase and 1% when you pay the bill. There’s also a 0% introductory APR offer on balance transfers, so any debt you have from higher-interest cards is that much easier to pay off.

2% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.

Pros

  • Welcome offer
  • No annual fee
  • Up to 2% cash back

Cons

  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Requires good credit
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/21/2024
635
TransUnion
$3,500
Approved04/21/2024
670
Equifax
$3,500
Approved03/12/2024
726
Equifax
$3,800
Approved03/12/2024
731
Equifax
$3,800
Approved03/12/2024
745
Equifax
$3,800
Approved03/12/2024
765
Equifax
$3,800
Approved03/12/2024
800
Experian
$3,800
Approved03/12/2024
806
TransUnion
$3,800
Approved02/03/2024
780
Experian
$6,900
Approved02/03/2024
794
TransUnion
$6,900
Approved02/03/2024
813
Equifax
$6,900
Approved01/19/2024
840
Not Provided
$11,500
Approved12/12/2023
800
Not Provided
$7,000
Approved01/11/2024
730
Not Provided
---
Approved05/22/2024
805
Experian
$6,800
Approved11/13/2023
760
Not Provided
$3,000
Approved11/28/2023
740
TransUnion
$9,000
Approved11/28/2023
801
Experian
$9,000
Approved11/28/2023
810
Equifax
$9,000
Denied01/03/2024
800
Not Provided
---
Denied05/10/2024
793
Not Provided
---

What Is the Value of Your Citi® Double Cash Card Rewards Over Time?

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
All Purchases$24,0002% $480$7,900$26,595

 Robinhood Gold Card 

Robinhood Gold Card

Our Rating: 4.9

★★★★
Robinhood Gold Card

Welcome Offer

None

Annual Fee

$0

APR

19.74% – 32.74% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850

Rewards: Earn 3% cash back across the board and 5% cash back on travel when you book through the Robinhood travel portal.

The Robinhood Gold Card offers 3% cash back across the board, which is a terrific rate for a flat rate card. However, you must be a Robinhood Gold member to apply (currently $5 a month or $50 a year) with no free trial. Also, you must have a Robinhood brokerage account. There is a waiting list for this card, but some applicants have been approved and received the card.

3% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn 3% cash back on all eligible purchases
5% cash back
Travel
Earn 5% cash back when you book travel through the Robinhood travel portal

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • 3% cash back across the board

Cons

  • No welcome bonus
  • High APR
  • Requires good credit
  • Must be a Robinhood Gold member to apply
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved06/24/2024
695
Not Provided
$20,000
Approved06/14/2024
780
Equifax
$20,000
Approved06/14/2024
782
Experian
$20,000
Approved06/14/2024
794
TransUnion
$20,000

What Is the Value of Your Robinhood Gold Card Rewards Over Time?

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
All Purchases$24,0003%$720$11,850$39,892

Bread Cashback™ American Express® Credit Card

Our Rating: 4.6

★★★★

Bread Cashback™ American Express® Credit Card

Welcome Offer

None

Est. Value

None

Annual Fee

$0

APR

20.24% to 34.74% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850

Rewards: Earn an unlimited 2% cash back on purchases. (Terms Apply)

The Bread Cashback™ American Express® Credit Card offers unlimited cash back on purchases you make with the card.1 There’s no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.2

The card comes with American Express premium benefits including 24-hour emergency assistance, ID theft protection, and early access to buy tickets to concerts and other events.3 However, the card does not offer a welcome bonus. Learn More.

2% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn 2% unlimited cash back when you use your Bread Cashback Card.

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • 2% cash back

Cons

  • No welcome bonus
  • High APR
  • Requires good credit
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved06/12/2023
685
Experian
$3,500
Approved01/10/2023
664
Experian
$5,000
Approved01/17/2023
827
Equifax
$10,000
Approved01/17/2023
837
Experian
$10,000
Approved01/17/2023
837
TransUnion
$10,000
Approved02/09/2023
700
Experian
$5,000
Approved03/09/2023
724
Experian
$3,500
Approved11/21/2023
752
Experian
$6,750
Approved11/22/2023
827
Experian
$7,850
Approved02/21/2023
713
Experian
$6,000

What Is the Value of Your Bread Cashback™ American Express® Credit Card Rewards Over Time?

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
All Purchases$24,0002% $480$7,900$26,595

 Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card

Our Rating: 4.7

★★★★

Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card

Welcome Offer

None

Est. Value

None

Annual Fee

$0

APR

16.99% to 26.99% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850

Rewards: Earn up to 2.5% cash back on your first $10,000 of qualifying eligible purchases per billing cycle, then 1.5% for every purchase thereafter.

The Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card offers a slightly higher rate than most credit cards out there, and for those who don’t spend more than $10,000 on a card in a billing cycle, this card is a good choice. If you go over $10,000, the rate is only 1.5% and many credit cards can top that. There is no welcome offer, but there’s also no annual fee.

1.5% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other qualifying eligible purchases.
2.5% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn up to 2.5% cash back on your first $10,000 of qualifying eligible purchases per billing cycle.

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Up to 2.5% cash back

Cons

  • No welcome bonus
  • High APR
  • Requires good credit
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/10/2023
686
TransUnion
$5,000

What Is the Value of Your Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card Rewards Over Time?

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
All Purchases$24,0002.5%$600$9,875$33,243

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

Our Rating: 4.5

★★★★

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

Welcome Offer

One-time $200 cash bonus

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

19.74% – 29.74% Variable

Credit Req’d

Excellent, Good

Rewards: Earn 1.5% cash back on all eligible purchases and 5% cash back on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel.

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card offers decent cash back rewards on every purchase. There’s no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees. There’s also a 0% intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, then 19.74% - 29.74% variable APR. It’s a good card for everyday use and travel.

1.5% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 1.5% cash back on all other eligible purchases
5% cash back
Hotels
Earn 5% cash back on hotels booked through Capital One Travel
5% cash back
Rental Cars
Earn 5% cash back on car rentals booked through Capital One Travel

Pros

  • Welcome offer
  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fee

Cons

  • High APR
  • Requires good credit
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved10/15/2023
780
Not Provided
---
Approved01/15/2024
650
Not Provided
$2,000
Approved10/01/2023
700
Not Provided
$1,000
Denied04/01/2023
750
Not Provided
---
Denied06/30/2023
768
Not Provided
---

What Is the Value of Your Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card Rewards Over Time?

Since this credit card also earns elevated rewards on some travel booked through Capital One Travel, we added a travel spending category in the example below. We also chose a modest spend for that category to avoid inflating the investing estimates.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Other Purchases$22,8001.5%$342
Travel booked through Capital One Travel$1,2005%$60
Total24,000$402$6,616$22,273

Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

Our Rating: 4.4

★★★★

Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

Welcome Offer

Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back

Est. Value

None

Annual Fee

$39

APR

29.99% Variable

Credit Req’d

Average, Fair, Limited

Rewards: Earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase. Earn 5% cash back on hotels booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply).

The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is a good option for those with less than stellar credit. It offers a simple 1.5% cash back on every purchase. There is a $39 annual fee but no foreign transaction fees. The good news is that payments are reported to all three credit bureaus, enabling you to improve your credit score with on-time payments.

1.5% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
5% cash back
Hotels
Earn 5% cash back on hotels booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)
5% cash back
Rental Cars
Earn 5% cash back on rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)

Pros

  • No foreign transaction fee
  • helps build credit

Cons

  • Annual fee
  • No welcome bonus
  • High APR
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved06/01/2023
621
Not Provided
$2,000
Approved08/06/2024
664
TransUnion
$500
Approved08/06/2024
666
Equifax
$500

What Is the Value of Your Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card Rewards Over Time?

This credit card has a small annual fee. For the example below, we’ll subtract the credit card annual fee from the annual cash back total.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Other Purchases$22,8001.5%$342
Travel booked through Capital One Travel$1,2005%$60
Total$24,000$363
($402 – $39 annual fee)
$5,975$20,112

U.S. Bank Smartly™ Visa Signature® Card

U.S. Bank Smartly™ Visa Signature® Card

Our Rating: 4.8

★★★★

U.S. Bank Smartly™ Visa Signature® Card

Welcome Offer

None

Est. Value

None

Annual Fee

$0

APR

18.74% to 28.99% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850

Rewards: Earn an unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, plus earn up to an additional 2% cash back when paired with a U.S. Bank Savings account.

The U.S. Bank Smartly™ Visa Signature® Card offers an unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase. However, if you have at least $5,000 in a U.S. Bank savings account, (or open consumer checking account(s), money market savings account(s), CDs and/or IRAs, U.S. Bancorp Investments and personal trust account), you could earn more. If you have at least $100,000 in any of these accounts, you’ll earn 4% cash back on every purchase.

Even if you have just $5,000 to put away, 2.5% cash back on every purchase is a great deal, especially because it’s unlimited. There’s also a 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 months.

2% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases
2.5% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn a 25% Smartly Earning Bonus: Earn 2.5% cash back on all purchases when you have a U.S. Smartly Savings Account with a qualifying balance between $5,000 - $49,999 in U.S. Bank deposit, trust or investment accounts. To get this rate, rewards must be redeemed into an eligible U.S. Bank deposit account.
3% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn a 50% Smartly Earning Bonus: Earn 3% cash back on all purchases when you have a U.S. Smartly Savings Account with a qualifying balance between $50,000 - $99,999 in U.S. Bank deposit, trust or investment accounts. To get this rate, rewards must be redeemed into an eligible U.S. Bank deposit account.
4% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn a 100% Smartly Earning Bonus: Earn 4% cash back on all purchases when you have a U.S. Smartly Savings Account with a qualifying balance of $100,000 or more in U.S. Bank deposit, trust or investment accounts. To get this rate, rewards must be redeemed into an eligible U.S. Bank deposit account.

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • Up to 4% cash back

Cons

  • No welcome bonus
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • High APR
  • Requires good credit
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved11/14/2024
813
TransUnion
$25,000
Approved11/14/2024
823
Experian
$25,000
Approved11/14/2024
841
Equifax
$25,000
Approved11/11/2024
800
Equifax
$15,000
Approved11/11/2024
756
Experian
$2,000
Approved11/11/2024
757
Equifax
$2,000
Approved11/11/2024
761
TransUnion
$2,000
Approved11/13/2024
771
TransUnion
$2,000
Approved11/11/2024
770
Experian
$15,000
Approved11/11/2024
789
TransUnion
$15,000
Approved11/11/2024
800
Equifax
$15,000
Approved11/14/2024
817
TransUnion
$15,000
Approved11/12/2024
800
Not Provided
$17,000
Approved11/14/2024
800
Not Provided
$15,000

What Is the Value of Your U.S. Bank Smartly™ Visa Signature® Card Rewards Over Time?

This card doesn’t have an annual fee, but you do have the potential to earn more cash back, depending on if you have a savings account with U.S. Bank.

Annual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
$24,0002%$480$7,900$26,595
$24,0002.5%$600$9,875$33,243
$24,0003%$720$11,850$39,892
$24,0004%$960$15,800$53,189

Triple Play Credit Cards

These credit cards earn elevated rewards of at least 3% in three or more categories, and they make an excellent second credit card.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Chase Freedom Unlimited

Our Rating: 4.9

★★★★

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Welcome Offer

Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year)

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

19.74% – 28.49% Variable

Credit Req’d

Excellent, Good

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on travel purchases through Chase TravelSM (after your first year or $20,000 spent). 3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services and drugstore purchases. 1.5% cash back on other purchases.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a cash back card offering 1.5% to 5% cash back. Of all the cards on the market offering 1.5% cash back, it’s by far the best. It also has no annual fee.

This card could serve as your everyday card. While its flat rate is 1.5% cash back, not 2%, the elevated rewards you can earn on travel purchased through Chase TravelSM make it more appealing. On top of that, it offers a welcome bonus that gets you an extra 1.5% cash back in the first year.

1.5% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 1.5% cash back on all other purchases
3% cash back
Drugstores
Earn 3% on drugstore purchases
3% cash back
Dining
Earn 3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
5% cash back
Travel
5% cash back on all travel purchased through Chase Travel(SM)

Pros

  • Welcome offer
  • No annual fee
  • Up to 5% cash back

Cons

  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Requires good credit
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved05/23/2024
640
Not Provided
$300
Approved04/25/2024
801
Experian
$10,000
Approved06/13/2024
741
Not Provided
$6,000
Approved06/19/2024
667
Experian
$5,500
Approved06/19/2024
686
TransUnion
$5,500
Approved06/19/2024
687
Equifax
$5,500
Approved01/05/2024
689
Experian
$11,000
Approved01/05/2024
695
Equifax
$11,000
Approved01/05/2024
696
Equifax
$11,000
Approved01/05/2024
722
TransUnion
$11,000
Approved01/05/2024
732
TransUnion
$11,000
Approved01/05/2024
733
Experian
$11,000
Approved09/09/2024
749
TransUnion
$12,000
Approved09/09/2024
762
Experian
$12,000
Approved09/09/2024
770
Equifax
$12,000
Approved07/17/2024
708
Equifax
$5,600
Approved07/17/2024
709
Experian
$5,600
Approved07/17/2024
711
TransUnion
$5,600

What Is the Value of Your Chase Freedom Unlimited® Rewards Over Time?

This credit card currently has a unique welcome offer that increases the amount of cash back you can earn in the first year. The example below calculates the estimated cash back you can earn if you already carry the card or beginning in year two for new card holders.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Travel booked through Chase TravelSM$1,2005%$60
Dining$3,0003%$90
Drugstores$6003%$18
Other Purchases$19,2001.5%$288
Total$24,000$456$7,505$25,265

If you’re curious how much cash back you can earn in your first year with the welcome offer, we did the math. Assuming you earn the max $300 cash back from the welcome offer, you can add that to the $456 total annual cash back in the example below to get $756 cash back in your first year. Consider if you invest that amount in year one and then contribute the $456 estimated annual cash back for 10 and 20 years. We estimate rewards valued at $8,215 after 10 years and $26,946 after 20 years.

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

American Express Blue Cash Preferred

Our Rating: 4.5

★★★★

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Welcome Offer (Terms Apply)

Earn a $250 statement credit

Est. Value

$250

Annual Fee

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

APR

18.49% – 29.49% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good, Excellent

Rewards: Earn 6% cash back on groceries up to $6,000 per year at U.S. supermarkets and on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, then 1%. Earn 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and transit. Earn 1% cash back on other purchases. Terms Apply.

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is best known for its 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 a year, then 1%). After that, you can always switch to a different card. But this card also offers 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions with no cap and 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations.

The cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or on Amazon.com at checkout. We view the card as best for families or others who can take full advantage of the 6% cash back categories.

Terms Apply.

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
1% cash back on all other purchases
3% cash back
Gas
3% cash back at U.S. gas stations
3% cash back
Transit
3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more)
6% cash back
U.S. supermarkets
6% cash back on groceries up to $6,000 per year in purchases at U.S. supermarkets, then 1%
6% cash back
Streaming services
6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions

Pros

  • Welcome offer
  • Up to 6% cash back

Cons

  • Annual fee
  • High APR
  • Foreign transaction fee
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved01/19/2023
825
Not Provided
$6,000
Approved05/04/2023
738
Experian
$20,000
Approved05/04/2023
748
TransUnion
$20,000
Approved05/04/2023
755
Equifax
$20,000
Approved09/16/2024
805
Experian
$25,000

What Is the Value of Your Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express Rewards Over Time?

For this credit card, the annual fee is $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. We’ll subtract the annual fee from the annual cash back total.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
U.S. Supermarkets$6,0006%$360
U.S. Streaming Subscriptions$1,2006%$72
U.S. Gas Stations and Transit$2,4003%$72
Other Purchases$14,4001%$144
Total$24,000$553
($648 – $95 annual fee)
$9,102$30,639

Now, imagine if you use this triple play credit card for groceries, streaming, and gas and then use a daily driver credit card for other purchases. You can earn 2% cash back on all your other purchases instead of 1% cash back. Here’s what the value of rewards can look like over time.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
U.S. Supermarkets$6,0006%$360
U.S. Streaming Subscriptions$1,2006%$72
U.S. Gas Stations and Transit$2,4003%$72
Other Purchases with Daily Driver$14,4002%$284
Total$24,000$693
($788 – $95 annual fee)
$11,406$38,396

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

Our Rating: 4.4

★★★★

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

Welcome Offer (Terms Apply)

Earn a $200 statement credit

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

18.49% – 29.49% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good, Excellent

Rewards: Earn 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. Earn 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. Earn 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases. Terms Apply.

With the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express you’ll get 1% cash back on your everyday spending and up to 3% in categories such as U.S. gas stations, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. online retail purchases on up to $6,000 per year in purchases in each category, then 1%. The cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or on Amazon.com at checkout. All this for a $0 annual fee.

Terms Apply.

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
1% cash back on all other purchases.
3% cash back
U.S. supermarkets
3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
3% cash back
Select Categories
3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
3% cash back
Gas
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.

Pros

  • Welcome offer
  • Up to 3% cash back
  • $0 annual fee

Cons

  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Requires good credit
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved02/01/2023
727
Experian
$2,000
Approved09/24/2023
730
Experian
$2,000
Approved09/24/2023
735
Equifax
$2,000
Approved09/24/2023
790
TransUnion
$2,000
Approved10/06/2024
687
Equifax
$1,000
Approved10/06/2024
692
TransUnion
$1,000
Approved10/06/2024
696
Experian
$1,000
Approved09/29/2024
760
Experian
---
Approved09/29/2024
774
TransUnion
---
Approved09/29/2024
780
Equifax
---
Approved05/21/2023
665
Experian
$5,000
Approved07/20/2023
770
Equifax
$6,000
Approved07/20/2023
772
Experian
$6,000
Approved07/20/2023
780
TransUnion
$6,000
Approved06/15/2023
730
Not Provided
$10,000

What Is the Value of Your Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express Rewards Over Time?

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
U.S. Supermarkets$6,0003%$180
U.S. Online Retail Purchases$3,0003%$90
U.S. Gas Stations$2,4003%$72
Other Purchases$12,6001%$126
Total$24,000$468$7,703$25,930

As we did with the previous credit card, let’s look at how the value changes when you use a daily driver card for other purchases. Again, this allows you to earn 2% cash back on other purchases instead of 1% cash back.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
U.S. Supermarkets$6,0003%$180
U.S. Online Retail Purchases$3,0003%$90
U.S. Gas Stations$2,4003%$72
Other Purchases with a Daily Driver$12,6002%$252
Total$24,000$594$9,776$32,911

Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card

Our Rating: 4.5

★★★★

Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

Welcome Offer

$250 Cash Back

Est. Value

$250

Annual Fee

$0

APR

19.74% – 29.74% Variable

Credit Req’d

Excellent, Good

Rewards: Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases. Earn 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply). Earn 3% cash back at grocery stores excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®. Earn 3% cash back on popular streaming services, dining, and entertainment. Earn 1% cash back on other purchases.

The Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card offers elevated cash back on several everyday purchases. There’s no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees. There’s also a 0% intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, then 19.74% - 29.74% variable APR. For a no-annual-fee card, earning up to 3% cash back on popular everyday categories is a solid offer. It makes a great second credit card.

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
1% cash back on all other purchases
3% cash back
Supermarkets
3% cash back at grocery stores excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®
3% cash back
Streaming services
3% cash back on popular streaming services
3% cash back
Dining
3% cash back on dining
3% cash back
Entertainment
3% cash back on entertainment
5% cash back
Hotels
Earn 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply).
5% cash back
Rental Cars
Earn 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply).
8% cash back
Entertainment
Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases

Pros

  • Welcome offer
  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Up to 10% cash back

Cons

  • High APR
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/06/2023
740
Not Provided
$1,000
Approved09/13/2023
720
TransUnion
$10,000
Approved09/13/2023
740
Equifax
$10,000
Approved09/13/2023
780
Not Provided
$10,000
Approved12/05/2023
760
Not Provided
$10,000
Approved02/01/2023
661
Experian
$5,000
Approved02/01/2023
729
TransUnion
$5,000
Approved05/11/2023
815
Not Provided
$10,000
Approved06/08/2023
620
Not Provided
$5,000
Approved04/04/2023
700
Not Provided
$1,000
Approved08/14/2023
734
Experian
$1,000
Approved08/14/2023
738
Not Provided
$1,000
Approved02/02/2023
795
Not Provided
$15,000
Approved02/02/2023
803
Not Provided
$15,000
Approved09/05/2023
820
Experian
$40,000
Approved04/12/2023
768
Equifax
$20,000
Approved04/12/2023
768
TransUnion
$20,000
Approved04/12/2023
772
Experian
$20,000
Approved02/12/2023
657
TransUnion
$1,000
Approved08/10/2023
672
Not Provided
---
Approved08/10/2023
803
Experian
---
Denied06/16/2023
700
Not Provided
---
Denied10/25/2023
776
Not Provided
---
Denied10/25/2023
778
Not Provided
---
Denied03/08/2023
811
TransUnion
---
Denied03/26/2024
736
Experian
---
Denied06/17/2023
797
Not Provided
---
Denied08/05/2023
710
Not Provided
---
Denied12/02/2023
771
TransUnion
---
Denied12/02/2023
804
Experian
---

What Is the Value of Your Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card Rewards Over Time?

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Grocery Stores (excluding Target and Walmart)$5,4003%$162
Dining$3,0003%$90
Popular Streaming Services$6003%$18
Capital One Entertainment$2508%$20
Other Entertainment$1,2003%$36
Hotels & Rental Cars Booked through Capital One Travel$6005%$30
Other Purchases$12,9501%$129.50
Total$24,000$485.50$7,982$26,872

Here’s how the value changes if you use a 2% cash back daily driver credit card for other purchases:

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Grocery Stores (excluding Target and Walmart)$5,4003%$162
Dining$3,0003%$90
Popular Streaming Services$6003%$18
Capital One Entertainment$2508%$20
Other Entertainment$1,2003%$36
Hotels & Rental Cars Booked through Capital One Travel$6005%$30
Other Purchases with a Daily Driver$12,9502%$259
Total$24,000$615$10,122$34,074

PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card 

Our Rating: 4.6

★★★★

PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card

Welcome Offer

$250

Est. Value

$250

Annual Fee

$0

APR

19.49% to 29.49% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850

Rewards: Earn 4% on gas station purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants, and 2% on grocery store purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually. Earn 1% cash back on other purchases.

The PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card could be a good fit for you if you don’t put a lot of expenses on a credit card and don’t want to pay an annual fee. You’ll earn between 2% and 4% cash back on everyday purchases like gas, restaurants, and grocery stores, but there’s a cap of $8,000 in combined purchases. After that, you’ll earn just 1% cash back. You also get cell phone protection, up to $800, when you pay your wireless bill with your card.

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
1% cash back on all other purchases.
2% cash back
U.S. supermarkets
Earn 4% on gas station purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants, and 2% on grocery store purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually.
3% cash back
Dining
Earn 4% on gas station purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants, and 2% on grocery store purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually.
4% cash back
Gas
Earn 4% on gas station purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants, and 2% on grocery store purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually.

Pros

  • Welcome offer
  • No annual fee
  • Up to 4% cash back

Cons

  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Requires good credit
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved10/27/2023
775
Experian
$2,500
Approved02/01/2023
737
Equifax
$12,500
Approved02/01/2023
742
Experian
$12,500
Approved02/01/2023
752
TransUnion
$12,500
Approved01/26/2023
744
Experian
$12,500
Approved01/26/2023
752
TransUnion
$12,500
Approved01/26/2023
770
Equifax
$12,500
Approved01/31/2023
746
Experian
$11,500
Approved01/31/2023
788
Experian
$11,500
Denied07/30/2021
800
Not Provided
---
Denied01/13/2024
724
Not Provided
---

What Is the Value of Your PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card Rewards Over Time?

Keep in mind, there is a cap on the elevated rewards with this card. So, while we did keep an overall spend of $24,000 in our calculations below, this card is best for a modest spender or paired with a daily driver credit card.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Gas$1,8004%$72
Dining$3,6003%$108
Groceries$2,6002%$52
Other Purchases$16,0001%$160
Total$24,000$392$6,452$21,719

Here’s what the value of rewards can look like when you combine this card with a 2% daily driver.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Gas$1,8004%$72
Dining$3,6003%$108
Groceries$2,6002%$52
Other Purchases with a Daily Driver$16,0002%$320
Total$24,000$552$9,085$30,584

Category King Credit Cards

We call these Category King credit cards because they earn excellent rewards in at least one category. These cards are excellent third credit cards. Use this card for the one category, the triple play card for the select categories, and the daily driver for everything else.

U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature

Our Rating: 4.8

★★★★

U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

Welcome Offer

$200 bonus

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

18.74% to 28.99% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on prepaid hotels, air travel, and car reservations booked in the Rewards Center. 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories of your choice. 2% cash back on one everyday category, like gas stations and EV charging stations, grocery stores or restaurants, and 1% cash back on other purchases.

The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card stands out as one of the best cash back credit cards for travel. It pays 5% cash back on eligible airfare, hotels, and car rentals booked through the Rewards Travel Center. It also pays 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose, and 2% cash back on one everyday category of your choosing. This makes it a great card to use for something like utilities, which don’t often qualify for cash back with other cards.

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
1% cash back on all other purchases
2% cash back
Rotating Categories
2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations and EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants
5% cash back
Rotating Categories
5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose
5% cash back
Airfare
5% cash back on prepaid air booked directly in the Rewards Center
5% cash back
Hotels
5% cash back on prepaid hotels booked directly in the Rewards Center
5% cash back
Rental Cars
5% cash back on prepaid car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center

Pros

  • Welcome offer
  • No annual fee
  • Up to 5% cash back

Cons

  • High APR
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Requires good credit
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved09/01/2023
780
Not Provided
$10,000
Approved02/06/2023
778
Experian
$10,000
Approved02/06/2023
809
Equifax
$10,000
Approved02/06/2023
820
TransUnion
$10,000
Approved01/11/2024
797
Experian
$17,000
Approved09/21/2023
800
Experian
$500
Approved01/09/2023
809
Experian
$9,000
Approved10/21/2024
810
Not Provided
$10,000
Approved08/05/2023
749
Not Provided
$500
Approved08/05/2023
803
Not Provided
$500
Approved08/05/2023
808
Not Provided
$500
Approved08/05/2023
829
Not Provided
$500
Approved06/19/2023
663
TransUnion
$600
Approved04/24/2024
838
TransUnion
$20,000
Approved05/30/2023
744
Experian
$6,500
Approved05/30/2023
752
Equifax
$6,500
Approved05/30/2023
772
TransUnion
$6,500
Denied10/02/2023
791
Experian
---
Denied10/02/2023
811
Equifax
---

What Is the Value of Your U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card Rewards Over Time?

In the example below, we chose dining and groceries for the two 5% categories. Since there’s a $2,000 quarterly cap on those purchases, we also divided that cap between those two categories. Then, we chose gas for the 2% category.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Travel Booked in Rewards Center$6005%$30
Dining$4,0005%$200
Groceries$4,0005%$200
Gas$1,8002%$36
Other Purchases$13,6001%$136
Total$24,000$602$9,908$33,354

Below is a look at how the value increases when you combine this card with a daily driver credit card.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Travel Booked in Rewards Center$6005%$30
Dining$4,0005%$200
Groceries$4,0005%$200
Gas$1,8002%$36
Other Purchases with a Daily Driver$13,6002%$272
Total$24,000$738$12,147$40,889

 Citi Custom Cash® Card

Citi Custom Cash

Our Rating: 4.7

★★★★

Citi Custom Cash® Card

Welcome Offer

Earn $200 in cash back

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

18.49% – 28.49% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good 670 – 739, Excellent 740 – 850

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle up to the first $500 spent, then 1%. Unlimited 1% cash back on other purchases.

The Citi Custom Cash® Card launched in 2021 to compete against other 5% cash back cards with quarterly rotating categories. Those cards are popular due to the cash back rate, but many don’t like that you have to sign up each quarter to get the 5% cash back. On top of that, the higher rewards rate is limited to one or two categories per quarter.

Citi solved both of those limitations. First, there is no quarterly signup requirement. Second, you can earn 5% on up to $500 spent per billing cycle on the eligible category in which you’ve spent the most. Citi automatically figures out what category you spend the most money in every month and then gives you 5% cash back for that category. You don’t have to do anything–no enrollment, no signing up for a rotating category, nothing. It seems like such an obvious solution that I’m surprised another credit card issuer didn’t think of it sooner.

There’s no annual fee, and you get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months, then 18.49% - 28.49%.

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
4% cash back
Select Categories
Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel(SM) portal through 6/30/2026.
5% cash back
Select Categories
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.

Pros

  • Welcome offer
  • No annual fee
  • Up to 5% cash back

Cons

  • High APR
  • Foreign transaction fee
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved02/06/2023
748
Experian
$3,800
Approved02/06/2023
759
TransUnion
$3,800
Approved02/06/2023
761
Equifax
$3,800
Approved10/04/2023
784
Experian
$5,300
Approved10/04/2023
801
TransUnion
$5,300
Approved10/04/2023
811
Equifax
$5,300
Approved03/26/2024
741
TransUnion
$3,800
Approved03/26/2024
742
Experian
$3,800
Approved03/26/2024
751
Equifax
$3,800
Approved09/13/2023
800
Not Provided
$11,600
Approved01/17/2024
762
TransUnion
$6,800
Approved10/24/2023
720
Equifax
$8,000
Approved07/17/2023
790
Equifax
$3,000
Approved01/17/2023
800
TransUnion
$5,300
Approved05/10/2024
735
Equifax
$6,800
Approved07/09/2024
743
Experian
$6,900
Approved07/09/2024
751
TransUnion
$6,900
Approved07/09/2024
765
Equifax
$6,900
Denied05/12/2023
800
Not Provided
---
Denied05/19/2024
762
Not Provided
---

What Is the Value of Your Citi Custom Cash® Card Rewards Over Time?

In the example below, we assume groceries for the top spend category earning 5% rewards up to the cap of $500 per billing cycle.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Groceries$6,0005%$300
Other Purchases$18,0001%$180
Total$24,000$480$7,900$26,595

Here’s how the value increases when you use this card with a daily driver.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Groceries$6,0005%$300
Other Purchases with a Daily Driver$18,0002%$360
Total$24,000$660$10,863$36,568

Chase Freedom Flex®

Our Rating: 4.7

★★★★

Chase Freedom Flex®

Welcome Offer

$200

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

19.74%–28.49% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate and on travel purchased through Chase TravelSM. Earn 3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services, and on drugstore purchases. Earn 1% cash back on other purchases.

The Chase Freedom Flex® offers a long list of benefits. It offers a welcome bonus, up to 5% cash back, and there’s no annual fee. You also get some nice travel benefits.

The 5% cash back includes rotating categories that change each quarter, and you get 1% cash back on everything else.

All information about Chase Freedom Flex® has been collected independently by allCards.com. Chase Freedom Flex® is no longer available through allCards.com.

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
1% cash back on all other purchases
3% cash back
Drugstores
3% cash back on drugstore purchases
3% cash back
Dining
3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
5% cash back
Rotating Categories
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate
5% cash back
Travel
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel(SM)

Pros

  • Welcome offer
  • No annual fee
  • Up to 5% cash back
  • Earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points

Cons

  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Requires good credit
  • Keeping track of quarterly bonus categories
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/02/2023
741
TransUnion
$14,000
Approved04/02/2023
748
Experian
$14,000
Approved08/02/2023
800
Not Provided
$19,000
Approved10/24/2023
800
Not Provided
$8,600
Approved09/03/2023
795
Experian
$22,500
Approved09/03/2023
847
TransUnion
$22,500
Approved07/08/2024
800
Not Provided
$23,000
Approved06/02/2023
789
TransUnion
$12,000
Approved06/02/2023
791
Experian
$12,000
Approved04/12/2024
772
Not Provided
$20,000
Denied07/16/2024
780
Experian
---

What Is the Value of Your Chase Freedom Flex® Rewards Over Time?

For the example below, we assume groceries for the 5% category and also assume a max spend in that category.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Groceries$6,0005%$300
Dining$3,0003%$90
Drugstore$6003%$18
Other Purchases$14,4001%$144
Total$24,000$552$9,085$30,584

Below is a look at how the value changes when you combine this card with a 2% daily driver card.

Spending CategoriesAnnual chargesCash back rateEstimated annual cash backEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 10 yearsEstimate after investing rewards at 9% return for 20 years
Groceries$6,0005%$300
Dining$3,0003%$90
Drugstore$6003%$18
Other Purchases with a Daily Driver$14,4002%$288
Total$24,000$696$11,455$38,562

See More: Best Credit Cards for Everyday Spending

What Is a Cash Back Credit Card?

A cash back credit card is a type of rewards credit card that offers cash rewards for making purchases with the card.

With a cash back credit card, a percentage of the purchase amount is credited back to the cardholder’s account as a cash reward. The cash back rewards can typically be redeemed as a statement credit, a deposit to the cardholder’s bank account, or as a check. Cash back credit cards may offer a flat rate of cash back for all purchases, or higher cash back rates for specific categories of spending, such as groceries or gas. Some cash back credit cards also offer sign-up bonuses and other perks, such as no annual fee or zero percent introductory APR periods.

3 Types of Cash Back Credit Cards

As you map out your own cash back strategy, keep in mind that there are three broad types of cash back cards.

  • Flat-rate “Daily driver” credit cards: The most simple approach is a card that pays the same reward percentage on all purchases. The industry standard is 1%, but for those with good credit, you can nab 1.5% or even 2% on every purchase. This should be the first type of cash back card you get and serve as your everyday card. If you only want to carry one credit card, this one should be it.
  • Tiered cash back or “Triple Play” credit cards: These cards offer different rates of cash back depending on the category of spending. For example, a card may offer 3% cash back on gas and 2% cash back on groceries, but only 1% cash back on all other purchases. The bonus rates can vary based on the categories, with some cards offering multiple bonus categories. Purchases outside of the bonus categories typically pay 1%. These cards should supplement your everyday card if you want to maximize your rewards. You could use a triple play card on the elevated rewards categories and use the daily driver for everything else. 
  • Rotating category or “Category King” cash back credit cards: These cards offer bonus cash back in rotating categories throughout the year, typically every three months. For example, a card may offer 5% cash back on dining and entertainment from January to March and then switch to 5% cash back on groceries from April to June. There are spending caps eligible for the 5% cash back, typically $1,500 each quarter. All other purchases typically earn 1% cash back.

Here at allcards.com, we’re all about maximizing credit card rewards. Our 1-2-3 Cash Back System explains how to maximize your rewards depending on whether you carry one, two, or three credit cards. 

Some folks want the simplicity of using just one card for every purchase. Some are comfortable switching between two credit cards, one for the elevated category and the daily driver for everything else. If you want to add a third credit card, make it a rotating category credit card. 

How Does Cash Back Work on a Credit Card?

Cash back on a credit card works by providing a percentage of the amount spent on the card back to the cardholder as a reward. This percentage can vary depending on the credit card and the spending category. For example, a card may offer 1% cash back on all purchases, but 5% cash back on groceries and gas.

The cash back rewards are usually accumulated over a period of time and can be redeemed in different ways, such as a statement credit, a deposit into the cardholder’s bank account, or a check. Some cash back credit cards may have a minimum threshold for redemption, such as $25 or $50.

To earn cash back rewards, the cardholder needs to make purchases with the cash back credit card. The cash back is then automatically credited to their account based on the percentage earned for each purchase. To maximize cash back earnings, cardholders can use their credit card for everyday purchases, such as groceries, gas, and dining out.

It’s important to note that some cash back credit cards may have restrictions or limitations on earning and redeeming rewards, such as expiration dates or spending caps. It’s important to read the terms and conditions of the credit card before applying to fully understand how the cash back rewards program works.

Pros and Cons of Using Cash Back Credit Cards

Cash back credit cards offer several benefits, but there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. Here are some of the pros and cons of using cash back credit cards:

Pros:

  • Rewards: Cash back credit cards provide an opportunity to earn rewards for purchases you are already making, which can be a great way to save money or earn cash.
  • Flexibility: Cash back rewards can typically be redeemed in multiple ways, such as statement credits or cash deposits, giving you flexibility in how you use your rewards.
  • Sign-up bonuses: Some cash back credit cards offer sign-up bonuses, which can provide a large amount of cash back or rewards for meeting certain spending requirements.
  • Promotional offers: Cash back credit cards may offer promotional offers, such as 0% introductory APR periods, which can be beneficial for people who want to make large purchases and pay them off over time.

Cons:

  • High interest rates: Cash back credit cards often come with higher interest rates compared to other credit cards, which can offset the value of rewards earned if you carry a balance.
  • Spending temptation: Cash back credit cards may tempt people to overspend in order to earn more rewards, which can lead to debt and financial problems.

It’s important to carefully consider these pros and cons when deciding whether or not to use a cash back credit card and to choose a card that aligns with your spending habits and financial goals.

How to Find the Best Cash Back Credit Card for You

When looking for the best cash back credit card for you, there are several factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you find the right card:

  • Evaluate your spending habits: Look at your current spending habits and identify the categories where you spend the most money. This can help you choose a card that offers the highest cash back rewards for your biggest expenses.
  • Consider the cash back rate: Look for a card that offers a high cash back rate in the categories where you spend the most money. Consider both flat-rate and tiered cash back credit cards to find the best fit.
  • Check for sign-up bonuses: Look for cards that offer sign-up bonuses that can help boost your rewards earnings. Make sure you understand the requirements to earn the bonus and whether it’s worth the effort.
  • Review redemption options: Make sure the card you choose offers redemption options that align with your preferences. For example, if you prefer to receive cash back, choose a card that offers statement credits or direct deposits.
  • Consider annual fees and other costs: Look for cards with no annual fee or with an annual fee that is offset by the cash back rewards you’ll earn. Also, consider other costs such as foreign transaction fees, balance transfer fees, and late payment fees.
  • Check for additional perks: Some cash back credit cards offer additional perks, such as travel insurance or purchase protection. Consider these perks when choosing a card.
  • Compare multiple cards: Finally, compare multiple cash back credit cards to find the one that offers the best rewards program, fits your spending habits, and meets your financial needs.

By considering these factors, you can find the best cash back credit card for your specific situation and maximize your rewards earnings.

How to Make the Most of Your Cash Back Credit Card

If you have a cash back credit card, there are several strategies you can use to make the most of your rewards:

  • Choose the right card: Make sure you have a cash back credit card that matches your spending habits. Look for a card that offers bonus cash back in categories where you spend the most, such as groceries, gas, or dining out.
  • Pay your balance in full each month: To avoid paying interest charges, make sure you pay your credit card bill in full each month. This will also help you avoid the temptation to overspend and negate the benefits of your cash back rewards.
  • Maximize bonus categories: If your cash back card offers bonus cash back in certain categories, be sure to take advantage of those offers by using your card for those purchases.
  • Use your card for everyday expenses: Use your cash back credit card for everyday purchases, such as groceries, gas, and utility bills. This will help you accumulate cash back rewards quickly.
  • Redeem your rewards strategically: Consider redeeming your rewards for statement credits or bank deposits, rather than merchandise or gift cards, to maximize their value. Additionally, some cash back credit cards may offer bonuses for redeeming rewards in certain ways, so be sure to check for those opportunities.

Also, as I noted above, we save and invest all of our credit card rewards. Over time, we’ve built a 5-figure portfolio just from credit cards. I’m confident it will soon be 6-figures. Here’s the strategy we follow:

Do Cash Back Cards Actually Give You Cash?

Yes and no. It’s not cash, as in $100 bills – but it is money, versus say, travel rewards or gift cards. With a cash back credit card, you earn a percentage of your purchases back in the form of cash rewards. This can typically be redeemed for a statement credit, a deposit into your bank account, or a physical check mailed to you.

The exact redemption options and procedures will depend on the specific cash back credit card you have, so it’s important to read the card’s terms and conditions to understand how the rewards program works. Additionally, some cash back credit cards may have minimum redemption thresholds or restrictions on when you can redeem your rewards.

Is Cash Back from a Credit Card Taxable?

In most cases, cash back rewards from a credit card are not taxable. The IRS considers credit card rewards to be rebates or discounts on purchases, rather than taxable income. This means that you typically don’t need to report cash back rewards as income on your tax return.

However, there are some exceptions. For example, if you receive cash back rewards in exchange for opening a new credit card account, the issuer may report the value of the reward to the IRS as taxable income. Additionally, if you earn rewards through business purchases, the IRS may consider those rewards to be taxable income for your business.

It’s always a good idea to consult a tax professional if you’re unsure about how to report credit card rewards on your tax return.

Why Do Credit Cards Give Cash Back?

Credit card companies offer cash back rewards as a way to incentivize customers to use their credit cards more frequently and to attract new customers. By offering cash back, credit card companies hope to encourage customers to spend more money on their credit cards, which in turn generates more revenue for the credit card issuer through transaction fees and interest charges.

Additionally, cash back rewards can be a way for credit card companies to differentiate themselves from competitors and build customer loyalty. Customers who feel like they’re getting something in return for using their credit card may be more likely to continue using that card and recommend it to others.

Overall, offering cash back rewards can be a win-win for credit card companies and customers. Customers can earn rewards for their purchases, while credit card companies can increase their revenue and customer loyalty.

List of Cash Back Credit Cards

We track dozens of cash back cards. Below you’ll find a list of those cards, ordered by signup bonus, if any. You can click the card name to get more details about each offer. Remember that signup bonuses have spending requirements you must meet to qualify. Sometimes, the signup bonus is in the form of increased cash back rates the first year, subject to spending caps.

Rewards
1% - 4%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% - 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% - 2% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% - 2% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
0 - 1.5%
Annual Fee
$250‡
Rewards
1.5% - 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% - 5%
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards
1.5% - 2.5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1%
Annual Fee
$39
Rewards
2% - 3%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
0.5% to 1%
Annual Fee
$60
Rewards
1% to 3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1.5% to 3%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 4% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 3%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% - 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
2% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 5%
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards
1% to 4% cash back
Annual Fee
$0 (requires Costco membership)
Rewards
3% to 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
2% - 4% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% - 10%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1%-4%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1.5% - 10% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 3%
Annual Fee
$0 to $39
Rewards
1% cash back
Annual Fee
Program fee of up to $95.00 (one-time fee). Annual fee of $75 for first year, after that, $48 annually. Plus a Monthly Servicing Fee of $0 for the first year, then $99 annually ($8.25 per month).
Rewards
1% - 10%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 5%
Annual Fee
No annual fee
Rewards
1.5% to 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1.5% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% - 1.5% cash back, or 5x points, or 1x miles
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$49
Rewards
1%-6%
Annual Fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Rewards
1% - 2%
Annual Fee
No annual fee
Rewards
1.5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1%-3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
2%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0 intro annual fee the first year, $95 thereafter
Rewards
1% to 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1.5% - 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 8% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
2% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 2%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 3%
Annual Fee
None
Rewards
1% - 2%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1.25% to 1.529% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
2%-5%
Annual Fee
$195
Rewards
1% - 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% - 2% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1.5% to 2%
Annual Fee
$495
Rewards
1.5x to 5x miles
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% - 5% Cash Back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1.5% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
2% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
1% to 3%
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards
Up to 5% off at Target and Target.com
Annual Fee
$0