15 Great Rewards Credit Cards With No Annual Fee

The best credit cards offer rewards, welcome offers, and valuable benefits. If you pay your balance in full every month, rewards are like free money. One of the best perks is enjoying all of these features without paying an annual fee. That’s what you’ll find in this list, great credit cards with no annual fees.

How to Choose Your Credit Cards

Depending on how many credit cards you want to carry, your credit card rewards strategy might vary. Some people only want to carry one credit card. They put all their purchases on this one card, so they get the simplicity of just one bill and one rewards statement. Regardless if you want to carry one or more credit cards, your first credit card should be a “daily driver.” A daily driver credit card earns elevated rewards on everyday purchases. A credit card that pays 2% cash back on all purchases is an excellent example of a daily driver credit card.

For those who carry two credit cards, the second one should be a “triple play” card. These cards feature elevated rewards of at least 3% in three or more categories, and make a great complement to a daily driver.

Finally, there are the “Category King” credit cards. These are cards that target one or two categories that offer up to 5% cash back. With some cards the category changes quarterly, some cards let you choose a category, and a few just give you elevated rewards on the category you spend the most money in. These are the perfect cap to a three-card strategy.

Daily Driver Cards With No Annual Fee

Daily drivers should be your first credit card. If you only want to carry one credit card, make it one of these.

Citi^® Double Cash Card

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Our Rating: 4.9

★★★★★☆

Citi^® Double Cash Card

Welcome Offer

Earn $200 cash back

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

APR

18.74% – 28.74%, 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.

The Citi^® Double Cash Card is the card for you if you want a simple cash back structure you don’t have to think about. You get unlimited 1% cash back when you make a purchase and another 1% when you pay it off. That’s 2% cash back on every purchase. There’s also 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months, then 18.74% - 28.74%, variable APR. 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 Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	04/21/2024	635	TransUnion	$3,500
Approved	04/21/2024	670	Equifax	$3,500
Approved	03/12/2024	726	Equifax	$3,800
Approved	03/12/2024	731	Equifax	$3,800
Approved	03/12/2024	745	Equifax	$3,800
Approved	03/12/2024	765	Equifax	$3,800
Approved	03/12/2024	800	Experian	$3,800
Approved	03/12/2024	806	TransUnion	$3,800
Approved	02/03/2024	780	Experian	$6,900
Approved	02/03/2024	794	TransUnion	$6,900
Approved	02/03/2024	813	Equifax	$6,900
Approved	01/19/2024	840	Not Provided	$11,500
Approved	12/12/2023	800	Not Provided	$7,000
Approved	01/11/2024	730	Not Provided	---
Approved	05/22/2024	805	Experian	$6,800
Approved	11/13/2023	760	Not Provided	$3,000
Approved	11/28/2023	740	TransUnion	$9,000
Approved	11/28/2023	801	Experian	$9,000
Approved	11/28/2023	810	Equifax	$9,000
Denied	01/03/2024	800	Not Provided	---
Denied	05/10/2024	793	Not Provided	---

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

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Our Rating: 4.9

★★★★★☆

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Welcome Offer

Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

APR

19.74%, 24.74% or 29.74% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850

Rewards: Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards 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 19.74%, 24.74% or 29.74% 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 Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	04/20/2023	810	Not Provided	$2,000
Approved	09/02/2023	746	Experian	$6,000
Approved	09/02/2023	774	Equifax	$6,000
Approved	09/02/2023	786	TransUnion	$6,000
Approved	06/03/2023	820	Equifax	$30,000
Approved	02/18/2023	800	Not Provided	$20,000
Approved	06/23/2023	700	Experian	$30,000
Approved	04/14/2023	756	Experian	$13,000
Approved	10/23/2023	745	Equifax	$12,000
Approved	04/26/2023	743	Experian	$8,000
Approved	04/26/2023	751	TransUnion	$8,000
Approved	04/26/2023	765	Equifax	$8,000
Approved	10/04/2023	721	Experian	$16,000
Approved	09/24/2023	763	Experian	$15,000
Approved	09/24/2023	784	TransUnion	$15,000
Approved	09/24/2023	792	Equifax	$15,000
Denied	04/01/2023	744	TransUnion	---
Denied	04/01/2023	747	Experian	---
Denied	04/01/2023	767	Equifax	---

Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card

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Our Rating: 4.2

★★★★★☆

Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card

Welcome Offer

None

Est. Value

None

Annual Fee

APR

19.24% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850, Excellent 740 – 850

Rewards: Unlimited 2% cash back on everyday spending.

The Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card is perfect for cardholders who want to invest cashback into any eligible Fidelity account. Combining money saved with the potential for money earned is a great way to grow your investment portfolio.

2% cash back

All eligible purchases

Earn 2% cash back on card purchases

Pros

No annual fee
No foreign transaction fee
2% cash back

Cons

No welcome bonus
Requires good credit

App Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	03/21/2024	712	Experian	$19,000
Approved	03/21/2024	728	TransUnion	$19,000
Approved	03/21/2024	734	Equifax	$19,000
Approved	02/06/2024	800	Not Provided	$15,000
Approved	04/30/2024	742	TransUnion	$500
Approved	11/28/2023	801	Equifax	$25,000
Approved	02/21/2024	720	Experian	$15,000
Approved	02/21/2024	703	Equifax	$15,000
Approved	02/21/2024	709	TransUnion	$15,000
Approved	02/21/2024	712	Experian	$15,000
Approved	02/21/2024	713	TransUnion	$15,000
Approved	02/21/2024	720	Equifax	$15,000
Approved	02/21/2024	750	Equifax	$15,000
Approved	02/21/2024	752	Not Provided	$15,000
Approved	10/01/2023	655	Not Provided	$17,000
Approved	10/01/2023	672	Not Provided	$17,000
Approved	10/01/2023	672	Not Provided	$17,000
Approved	10/01/2023	697	Not Provided	$17,000
Approved	10/01/2023	704	Not Provided	$17,000
Approved	10/01/2023	710	Not Provided	$17,000
Approved	10/01/2023	729	TransUnion	$17,000
Approved	10/01/2023	734	Not Provided	$17,000
Approved	04/19/2024	640	TransUnion	$1,000
Approved	10/13/2023	736	Experian	$500
Approved	01/27/2024	753	Equifax	$5,000
Approved	01/27/2024	769	Experian	$5,000

Robinhood Gold Card

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Our Rating: 4.9

★★★★★☆

Robinhood Gold Card

Welcome Offer

None

Annual Fee

APR

19.99% – 29.99% 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

Triple Play Credit Cards With No Annual Fee

When you decide to add a second credit card to your wallet, a credit card that offers elevated cash back rewards of 3% on at least three categories is an excellent choice.

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

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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

APR

18.74% – 29.74% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good, Excellent

Rewards: Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. online retail purchases, and U.S. gas stations (up to $6,000 per year for each category, then 1%). 1% cash back on other purchases.

The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers elevated cash back on many everyday purchases, including online retail purchases. Not many credit cards offer cash back on online purchases, which is surprising because most people do a lot of online shopping. Gas and grocery store purchases are also where a lot of people spend a good chunk of change. Add in a small welcome offer and this card is a great choice. 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 Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	02/01/2023	727	Experian	$2,000
Approved	09/24/2023	730	Experian	$2,000
Approved	09/24/2023	735	Equifax	$2,000
Approved	09/24/2023	790	TransUnion	$2,000
Approved	05/21/2023	665	Experian	$5,000
Approved	07/20/2023	770	Equifax	$6,000
Approved	07/20/2023	772	Experian	$6,000
Approved	07/20/2023	780	TransUnion	$6,000
Approved	06/15/2023	730	Not Provided	$10,000

Hilton Honors American Express Card

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Our Rating: 4.8

★★★★★☆

Hilton Honors American Express Card

Welcome Offer (Terms Apply)

Earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points

Est. Value

Up to $500

Annual Fee

APR

20.49% – 29.49% Variable

Credit Req’d

Excellent, Good

Rewards: Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for every eligible dollar spent directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio; 5x points at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations, and 3x points on all other eligible purchases.

The Hilton Honors American Express Card is the entry-level, no annual fee credit card in the Hilton/American Express lineup. Cardholders earn points on Hilton purchases (of course) but also on other everyday purchase categories. Terms Apply.

3x points

On all other eligible purchases

Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.

5x points

U.S. supermarkets

Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. supermarkets.

5x points

Dining

Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants.

5x points

Gas

Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. gas stations.

7x points

Hotels

Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.

Pros

Welcome offer
No foreign transaction fee
$0 annual fee

Cons

High APR
Requires good credit

App Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	06/09/2022	728	TransUnion	$2,000
Approved	03/05/2022	704	Experian	$15,000
Approved	07/18/2022	704	Equifax	$5,000
Approved	07/18/2022	713	Experian	$5,000
Approved	06/09/2022	730	Equifax	$2,000
Approved	07/18/2022	713	TransUnion	$5,000
Approved	09/09/2023	679	Not Provided	$15,000

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

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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

APR

20.49% – 29.24% Variable

Credit Req’d

Excellent, Good

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on travel purchases through Chase Travel^SM (after your first year or $20,000 spent). 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases. 1.5% cash back on other purchases.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a great no-annual-fee card. You get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, then 20.49% - 29.24% variable APR. Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel^SM, and 3% cash back on dining and at drugstores. You get a nice suite of benefits such as trip cancellation/trip interruption insurance and auto rental collision damage waiver.

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 Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	05/23/2024	640	Not Provided	$300
Approved	04/25/2024	801	Experian	$10,000
Approved	06/13/2024	741	Not Provided	$6,000
Approved	06/19/2024	667	Experian	$5,500
Approved	06/19/2024	686	TransUnion	$5,500
Approved	06/19/2024	687	Equifax	$5,500
Approved	01/05/2024	689	Experian	$11,000
Approved	01/05/2024	695	Equifax	$11,000
Approved	01/05/2024	696	Equifax	$11,000
Approved	01/05/2024	722	TransUnion	$11,000
Approved	01/05/2024	732	TransUnion	$11,000
Approved	01/05/2024	733	Experian	$11,000
Approved	09/09/2024	749	TransUnion	$12,000
Approved	09/09/2024	762	Experian	$12,000
Approved	09/09/2024	770	Equifax	$12,000
Approved	07/17/2024	708	Equifax	$5,600
Approved	07/17/2024	709	Experian	$5,600
Approved	07/17/2024	711	TransUnion	$5,600

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

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Our Rating: 4.5

★★★★★☆

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

Welcome Offer

$200 Cash Back

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

APR

19.99% – 29.99% Variable

Credit Req’d

Excellent, Good

Rewards: Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment. 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery stores excluding superstores. Earn 1% cash back on other purchases. Terms Apply.

The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers elevated cash back on everyday purchases like dining, entertainment, streaming, and grocery stores. It also includes 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars. There’s also a 0% intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, then 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR. This is an excellent second credit card to pair with a daily driver.

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 Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	04/06/2023	740	Not Provided	$1,000
Approved	09/13/2023	720	TransUnion	$10,000
Approved	09/13/2023	740	Equifax	$10,000
Approved	09/13/2023	780	Not Provided	$10,000
Approved	12/05/2023	760	Not Provided	$10,000
Approved	02/01/2023	661	Experian	$5,000
Approved	02/01/2023	729	TransUnion	$5,000
Approved	05/11/2023	815	Not Provided	$10,000
Approved	06/08/2023	620	Not Provided	$5,000
Approved	04/04/2023	700	Not Provided	$1,000
Approved	08/14/2023	734	Experian	$1,000
Approved	08/14/2023	738	Not Provided	$1,000
Approved	02/02/2023	795	Not Provided	$15,000
Approved	02/02/2023	803	Not Provided	$15,000
Approved	09/05/2023	820	Experian	$40,000
Approved	04/12/2023	768	Equifax	$20,000
Approved	04/12/2023	768	TransUnion	$20,000
Approved	04/12/2023	772	Experian	$20,000
Approved	02/12/2023	657	TransUnion	$1,000
Approved	08/10/2023	672	Not Provided	---
Approved	08/10/2023	803	Experian	---
Denied	06/16/2023	700	Not Provided	---
Denied	10/25/2023	776	Not Provided	---
Denied	10/25/2023	778	Not Provided	---
Denied	03/08/2023	811	TransUnion	---
Denied	03/26/2024	736	Experian	---
Denied	06/17/2023	797	Not Provided	---
Denied	08/05/2023	710	Not Provided	---
Denied	12/02/2023	771	TransUnion	---
Denied	12/02/2023	804	Experian	---

U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

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Our Rating: 4.8

★★★★★☆

U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

Welcome Offer

$200 bonus

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

APR

18.99% to 29.24% 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 and 1% cash back on other purchases.

The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card offers 5% cash back on any two categories you choose on up to $2,000 in combined purchases per quarter. This makes it a great card to use for something like utilities, which don’t often qualify for cash back with other cards. It also offers 5% cash back on some travel purchases booked through the Rewards Center. You also get 2% cash back on one everyday category (gas, restaurants, grocery stores) and 1% cash back on everything else. On top of that, there’s a small welcome bonus and no annual fee.

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 Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	09/01/2023	780	Not Provided	$10,000
Approved	02/06/2023	778	Experian	$10,000
Approved	02/06/2023	809	Equifax	$10,000
Approved	02/06/2023	820	TransUnion	$10,000
Approved	01/11/2024	797	Experian	$17,000
Approved	09/21/2023	800	Experian	$500
Approved	01/09/2023	809	Experian	$9,000
Approved	08/05/2023	749	Not Provided	$500
Approved	08/05/2023	803	Not Provided	$500
Approved	08/05/2023	808	Not Provided	$500
Approved	08/05/2023	829	Not Provided	$500
Approved	06/19/2023	663	TransUnion	$600
Approved	05/30/2023	744	Experian	$6,500
Approved	05/30/2023	752	Equifax	$6,500
Approved	05/30/2023	772	TransUnion	$6,500
Denied	10/02/2023	791	Experian	---
Denied	10/02/2023	811	Equifax	---

Wells Fargo Autograph^SM Card

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Our Rating: 4.8

★★★★★☆

Wells Fargo Autograph^SM Card

Welcome Offer

Earn 20,000 bonus points

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

APR

19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% Variable

Credit Req’d

Rewards: Earn an unlimited 3x points at restaurants, airfare, hotels, cruises, car rentals, gas stations, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Earn 1x points on all other purchases.

The Wells Fargo Autograph^SM Card is a great card that offers elevated rewards on five categories of everyday purchases. There is a generous welcome offer (20% of the spend) and an introductory 0% APR offer on purchases for N/A, then 19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% variable APR. There are some valuable travel benefits and you can get cell phone protection when you pay the bill with your card.

1x points

On all other eligible purchases

Earn 1x points on other purchases

3x points

Cell phone service

3x on cell phone and landline providers

3x points

Streaming services

3x on popular streaming services

3x points

Travel

3x on airfare, hotels, cruises, and car rentals

3x points

Dining

3x on restaurants, dining in, take out, delivery, catering and more

3x points

Gas

3x at gas stations and electric charging stations

3x points

Transit

3x on subways, ride shares, parking, tolls and more

Pros

Welcome offer
No annual fee
No foreign transaction fee

Cons

High APR
Requires good credit

App Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	10/17/2023	825	Equifax	$30,000
Approved	04/03/2023	748	TransUnion	$15,000
Approved	04/03/2023	754	Equifax	$15,000
Approved	04/03/2023	767	Experian	$15,000
Approved	04/22/2023	695	Experian	$2,500
Approved	06/17/2023	768	TransUnion	$30,000
Approved	11/19/2023	741	Experian	$14,000
Approved	11/19/2023	743	Equifax	$14,000
Approved	11/19/2023	746	TransUnion	$14,000
Approved	10/27/2023	765	TransUnion	$16,000
Approved	10/27/2023	786	Equifax	$16,000
Approved	10/27/2023	788	Experian	$16,000

Redstone Visa Signature Credit Card

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Our Rating: 4.5

★★★★★☆

Redstone Visa Signature Credit Card

Welcome Offer

$150

Est. Value

$150

Annual Fee

APR

17.25% – 18.00% variable Variable

Credit Req’d

Excellent 740 – 850

Rewards: 5% cash back on gas, 5% cash back on dining, 3% cash back on groceries, discount stores, and wholesale clubs, 3% cash back on phone services; 3% cash back on select streaming services, and 1.5% on all other purchases.

If you don’t live in Alabama, you might not have heard of Redstone Visa Signature Credit Card, but it’s a card you should consider. The only drawback is that you have to join the Redstone Credit Union to apply, but you can join the Association of the United States Army (AUSA- Redstone-Huntsville chapter), which is free, and then submit to a video interview, and you’re in. This card offers cash back in 7 categories, up to 5%, and is well worth jumping through a few hoops for.

1.5% cash back

On all other eligible purchases

Earn 1.5% cash back on all other purchases

3% cash back

Cell phone service

Earn 3% cash back on cell phone service

3% cash back

U.S. supermarkets

Earn 3% cash back on groceries, discount stores, and wholesale clubs

3% cash back

Select Categories

Earn 3% cash back on utilities

3% cash back

Streaming services

Earn 3% cash back on streaming services

5% cash back

Dining

Earn 5% cash back at restaurants

5% cash back

Gas

Earn 5% cash back on gas purchases

Pros

Welcome offer
No annual fee
No foreign transaction fee
Up to 5% cash back

Cons

High APR
Requires good credit
Must join the Redstone Credit Union to qualify for a credit card

App Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	02/17/2024	825	Experian	$10,000
Approved	01/11/2024	797	Experian	$10,000
Approved	04/10/2024	835	Experian	$10,000
Approved	03/25/2024	800	Experian	---
Approved	02/16/2024	707	Experian	$5,000
Approved	03/14/2024	768	TransUnion	$5,000
Approved	02/20/2024	769	Experian	$5,000
Denied	01/10/2024	767	Equifax	---
Denied	01/10/2024	777	Experian	---
Denied	01/10/2024	777	TransUnion	---
Denied	03/14/2024	769	Not Provided	---
Denied	04/04/2024	723	Experian	---

Category King Credit Cards With No Annual Fee

When you decide to add a third credit card to your wallet, category king cards are the perfect choice. Category king cards offer a great rate on just one or two categories, which usually rotate every month or every quarter. Some have caps on how much you can earn, so make sure you read the fine print.

Citi Custom Cash® Card

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Our Rating: 4.7

★★★★★☆

Citi Custom Cash® Card

Welcome Offer

Earn $200 in cash back

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

APR

18.74% – 28.74% 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 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. You earn 5% cash back on up to $500 spent per billing cycle. There’s no annual fee, and you get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months, then 18.74% - 28.74% variable APR. One of our favorite category king credit cards.

1% cash back

On all other eligible purchases

Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

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 Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	02/06/2023	748	Experian	$3,800
Approved	02/06/2023	759	TransUnion	$3,800
Approved	02/06/2023	761	Equifax	$3,800
Approved	10/04/2023	784	Experian	$5,300
Approved	10/04/2023	801	TransUnion	$5,300
Approved	10/04/2023	811	Equifax	$5,300
Approved	09/13/2023	800	Not Provided	$11,600
Approved	10/24/2023	720	Equifax	$8,000
Approved	07/17/2023	790	Equifax	$3,000
Approved	01/17/2023	800	TransUnion	$5,300
Denied	05/12/2023	800	Not Provided	---
Denied	05/19/2024	762	Not Provided	---

Chase Freedom Flex®

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Our Rating: 4.7

★★★★★☆

Chase Freedom Flex®

Welcome Offer

$200

Est. Value

$200

Annual Fee

APR

20.49%–29.24% 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 Travel^SM. 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases. 1% cash back on other purchases.

The Chase Freedom Flex® allows you to earn 5% cash back in selected rotating categories per quarter on up to $1,500 in combined purchases. You can also get 0%intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, then 20.49%–29.24% variable APR.

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 Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	04/02/2023	741	TransUnion	$14,000
Approved	04/02/2023	748	Experian	$14,000
Approved	08/02/2023	800	Not Provided	$19,000
Approved	10/24/2023	800	Not Provided	$8,600
Approved	09/03/2023	795	Experian	$22,500
Approved	09/03/2023	847	TransUnion	$22,500
Approved	07/08/2024	800	Not Provided	$23,000
Approved	06/02/2023	789	TransUnion	$12,000
Approved	06/02/2023	791	Experian	$12,000
Approved	04/12/2024	772	Not Provided	$20,000
Denied	07/16/2024	780	Experian	---

Bilt World Elite Mastercard®

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Our Rating: 4.0

★★★★☆

Bilt World Elite Mastercard®

Welcome Offer

None

Est. Value

None

Annual Fee

APR

20.99%, 23.99%, or 28.99% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850

Rewards: Earn 1x points on rent payments (with no transaction fee), 2x points on travel purchases, and 3x points on dining.

The Bilt World Elite Mastercard® may be the only credit card that rewards you for paying rent. Even if your landlord only accepts checks, you can still pay with Bilt and Bilt will issue your landlord a check. You can also earn 2x points on travel purchases booked directly (including flights, hotels, rental cars, and cruises) and 3x points on dining.

While rewards are not exceptional, this card is still fit for the category king section for offering rewards on rent payments. Rent is a big monthly expense for many people making it easy to rack up points in a short time.

Bilt has some travel benefits, but there is no welcome offer. This card could have gone in the triple play category, but its main benefit is for people who pay rent, so we put it here.

1x points

On all other eligible purchases

Earn 1x points on other purchases.

1x points

Select Categories

Earn 1x points on rent payments without the transaction fee. Up to 100,000 points each calendar year.

2x points

Travel

Earn 2x points on flights, hotels, rental cars, and cruises when booked directly with airlines, hotels, and car rental agencies.

3x points

Dining

Earn 3x points on dining.

Pros

No annual fee
No foreign transaction fee
Earn rewards for paying rent

Cons

No welcome bonus
High APR
Requires good credit

App Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	05/10/2023	769	Experian	$5,000
Approved	07/20/2023	719	Not Provided	$16,000

Discover It® Cash Back Credit Card

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Our Rating: 4.4

★★★★★☆

Discover It® Cash Back Credit Card

Welcome Offer

Unlimited Cashback Match the first year

Est. Value

Cashback Match the first year

Annual Fee

APR

17.74% to 27.74% Variable

Credit Req’d

Good to Excellent 670 – 850

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter on up to $1,500 in purchases when you activate; and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases

The Discover It® Cash Back Credit Card is a terrific category king card. Cardholders get 5% cash back on various categories that rotate every quarter on up to $1,500 in purchases when you activate: gas stations and EV charging stations, groceries, and drugstores have been the categories in the past. Whatever you earn in cash back during your first year, Discover will match that amount. And there’s an introductory 0% APR offer on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, then 17.74% to 27.74% variable APR.

1% cash back

On all other eligible purchases

Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.

5% cash back

Rotating Categories

Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in purchases when you activate.

Pros

Welcome offer
No annual fee
No foreign transaction fee
Up to 5% cash back

Cons

High APR
Requires good credit

App Status	Date	Credit Score	Bureau	Credit Limit
Approved	09/24/2021	786	Equifax	$3,000
Approved	08/06/2021	705	Experian	$9,000
Approved	06/21/2022	673	Experian	$11,500
Approved	06/21/2022	677	TransUnion	$11,500
Approved	06/21/2022	684	Equifax	$11,500
Approved	11/24/2021	672	Experian	$1,100
Approved	05/01/2021	666	Experian	$6,500
Approved	09/24/2021	746	TransUnion	$3,000
Approved	09/24/2021	772	Experian	$3,000

Summary

Whether you carry one, two, or three or more credit cards, pay your balance every month so that your cash back isn’t eaten away by interest. Since none of these cards have an annual fee, you’ll be able to maximize your cash back rewards into a tidy profit.

How to Choose Your Credit Cards

Daily Driver Cards With No Annual Fee

Citi® Double Cash Card

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card

Robinhood Gold Card

Triple Play Credit Cards With No Annual Fee

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

Hilton Honors American Express Card

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

Wells Fargo AutographSM Card

Redstone Visa Signature Credit Card

Category King Credit Cards With No Annual Fee

Citi Custom Cash® Card

Chase Freedom Flex®

Bilt World Elite Mastercard®

Discover It® Cash Back Credit Card

Summary

Citi^® Double Cash Card

Wells Fargo Autograph^SM Card