March 19, 2023
*Editorial Note: The content of this article is based on the author’s opinions and recommendations alone. It may not have been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the credit card issuer. This site may be compensated through a credit card issuer partnership.
This article was last updated March 19, 2023 . Terms and conditions may have changed. For the most accurate information, please consult the issuer website.
The $0-annual-fee Chase Freedom Unlimited® lets you earn a generous cash back rate in a variety of everyday spending categories. Plus it offers great synergy with other Chase Ultimate Rewards® cards.
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If you want to earn rewards for the purchases you make, but aren’t quite sure where to start, you should look at cash back credit cards. These cards offer anywhere from 1% to 6% cash back on your purchases and typically provide simple redemption options, like statement credits, cash or checks. Plus, rewards are measured as a percentage of each dollar you spend, so it’s easy to calculate the value of the rewards you bank.
The best cash back credit cards provide rewards that align with your spending habits. For example, if your family spends a large amount on groceries each month, you’ll want a card that offers 2% or more cash back on those purchases. Cards that also offer an easy-to-earn sign-up bonus, $0 annual fee and intro APR on purchases are an added bonus.
Sign-up bonus: Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases..
Earning rate: Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
Why we picked this card: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card tops our list due to its versatility, simplicity and synergy with other Chase Ultimate Rewards® cards. You’ll earn an elevated cash back rate on every purchase. Plus, when you pair with an Ultimate Rewards card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, you can boost the 1.5% rate to 2.25% and the 3% rate to 4.5% back by redeeming your rewards for travel through Chase’s travel portal.
Pros | Cons |
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Generous cash back rewards rate $0 annual fee Great synergy with other Chase cards Long intro APR for purchases and balance transfers Good travel protections | Low cash back rate on general purchases rate if not paired with other Chase cards Foreign transaction fees |
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® lets you enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases
If you’re already familiar with cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a fantastic addition to your wallet. You can effectively earn 2.25% back on most purchases when you transfer your Ultimate Rewards points to a Chase Sapphire Reserve® account and redeem through Chase Travel. This is one of the highest cash back credit card earning rates available without a spending cap.
Plus, cardholders can earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
With its $0 annual fee and intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for more than a year, it’s hard to go wrong with this card.
Sign-up bonus: Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases..
Earning rate: Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
Why we picked this card: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card tops our list due to its versatility, simplicity and synergy with other Chase Ultimate Rewards® cards. You’ll earn an elevated cash back rate on every purchase. Plus, when you pair with an Ultimate Rewards card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, you can boost the 1.5% rate to 2.25% and the 3% rate to 4.5% back by redeeming your rewards for travel through Chase’s travel portal.
Pros | Cons |
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Generous cash back rewards rate $0 annual fee Great synergy with other Chase cards Long intro APR for purchases and balance transfers Good travel protections | Low cash back rate on general purchases rate if not paired with other Chase cards Foreign transaction fees |
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® lets you enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases
If you’re already familiar with cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a fantastic addition to your wallet. You can effectively earn 2.25% back on most purchases when you transfer your Ultimate Rewards points to a Chase Sapphire Reserve® account and redeem through Chase Travel. This is one of the highest cash back credit card earning rates available without a spending cap.
Plus, cardholders can earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
With its $0 annual fee and intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for more than a year, it’s hard to go wrong with this card.
Check out our Chase Freedom Unlimited® review.
Sign-up bonus: Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months
Earning rate: Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Why we picked this card: Along with letting you earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months, you’ll earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases. This is one of the best cash back credit card rewards rates among flat-rate cards. Rewards can be redeemed in a variety of ways, including as a statement credit, as a credit to a qualified Wells Fargo loan, mortgage or other credit account, in $25 increments at a Wells Fargo ATM or for gift cards.
Pros | Cons |
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Flat cash back rate Long intro APR on purchases and balance transfers $0 annual fee Cellphone protection Sign-up bonus | Potentially high regular APR 3% foreign transaction fee |
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is an excellent choice if you want to earn flat-rate rewards without worrying about different categories. Its flat earning rate is strong compared to other cards’ non-bonus percentages usually amounting to 1% or 1.5%.
Rewards can be redeemed in a variety of ways, including as a statement credit, as a credit to a qualified Wells Fargo loan, mortgage or other credit account, in $25 increments at a Wells Fargo ATM or for gift cards.
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card also comes with strong intro APR periods on both purchases and balance transfers — so whether you need to finance a big purchase and pay it off over time, or transfer a balance from another card, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card can help you do that.
Just know, if you opened a Wells Fargo credit card in the past 15 months and received an intro APR and/or a bonus, you might not qualify for intro APR and/or a bonus on this card. And if you opened another Wells Fargo credit card in the past six months, your application for this card might be denied.
Sign-up bonus: Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months
Earning rate: Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Why we picked this card: Along with letting you earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months, you’ll earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases. This is one of the best cash back credit card rewards rates among flat-rate cards. Rewards can be redeemed in a variety of ways, including as a statement credit, as a credit to a qualified Wells Fargo loan, mortgage or other credit account, in $25 increments at a Wells Fargo ATM or for gift cards.
Pros | Cons |
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Flat cash back rate Long intro APR on purchases and balance transfers $0 annual fee Cellphone protection Sign-up bonus | Potentially high regular APR 3% foreign transaction fee |
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is an excellent choice if you want to earn flat-rate rewards without worrying about different categories. Its flat earning rate is strong compared to other cards’ non-bonus percentages usually amounting to 1% or 1.5%.
Rewards can be redeemed in a variety of ways, including as a statement credit, as a credit to a qualified Wells Fargo loan, mortgage or other credit account, in $25 increments at a Wells Fargo ATM or for gift cards.
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card also comes with strong intro APR periods on both purchases and balance transfers — so whether you need to finance a big purchase and pay it off over time, or transfer a balance from another card, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card can help you do that.
Just know, if you opened a Wells Fargo credit card in the past 15 months and received an intro APR and/or a bonus, you might not qualify for intro APR and/or a bonus on this card. And if you opened another Wells Fargo credit card in the past six months, your application for this card might be denied.
Check out our Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card review.
Welcome offer: Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Earning rate: 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. 1% cash back on other purchases. Terms apply.
Why we picked this card: You can earn a high cash back rate in a variety of popular spending categories, like U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations. Though the 3% categories are each capped at $6,000 in purchases per year, you’ll earn at least $540 in cash back rewards if you max out every category. And with a $0 annual fee, there’s no cutting into your rewards.
Pros | Cons |
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High earning rate on everyday purchases like U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and U.S. online retail purchases $0 annual fee Long intro APR offer Welcome offer | Limit on higher rewards rate Potentially high regular APR 3% foreign transaction fee |
To see rates & fees for Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express please click here.
With the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express, you’ll earn a generous rate of 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. 1% cash back on other purchases. Terms apply.
Plus, earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is also a good choice for people looking to transfer a balance or seeking more time to pay off a big purchase because of its long intro APR on both purchases and balance transfers.
If you’re looking for higher cash back rates on everyday purchases and willing to pay an annual fee, then the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express may be a good option.
Welcome offer: Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Earning rate: 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. 1% cash back on other purchases. Terms apply.
Why we picked this card: You can earn a high cash back rate in a variety of popular spending categories, like U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations. Though the 3% categories are each capped at $6,000 in purchases per year, you’ll earn at least $540 in cash back rewards if you max out every category. And with a $0 annual fee, there’s no cutting into your rewards.
Pros | Cons |
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High earning rate on everyday purchases like U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and U.S. online retail purchases $0 annual fee Long intro APR offer Welcome offer | Limit on higher rewards rate Potentially high regular APR 3% foreign transaction fee |
To see rates & fees for Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express please click here.
With the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express, you’ll earn a generous rate of 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. 1% cash back on other purchases. Terms apply.
Plus, earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is also a good choice for people looking to transfer a balance or seeking more time to pay off a big purchase because of its long intro APR on both purchases and balance transfers.
If you’re looking for higher cash back rates on everyday purchases and willing to pay an annual fee, then the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express may be a good option.
Check out our Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express review.
Sign-up bonus: Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first three months. Plus, earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (excluding Target® and Walmart®) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year
Earning rate: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter! Plus, earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.
Why we picked this card: If you like earning a high cash back rate in categories that rotate each quarter, the $0-annual-fee Chase Freedom Flex℠ is tough to beat.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back from categories that rotate quarterly $0 annual fee Easy-to-earn sign-up bonus Long intro APR on purchases and balance transfers Mastercard World Elite benefits Free credit score access | $1,500 spending cap for bonus categories Bonus categories require activation each quarter Foreign transaction fees |
If you want a solid ongoing cash back rate on dining and drugstore purchases, and your spending also lines up well with the rotating categories, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers the chance to earn generous cash back. Just remember to activate the new bonus category every quarter, and be aware that after spending $1,500 in the quarterly category, your earning rate for such purchases will drop to 1% (meaning you can earn up to $75 cash back at the elevated rate each quarter).
New Chase Freedom Flex℠ cardholders also earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first three months. Plus, earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (excluding Target® and Walmart®) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.
Sign-up bonus: Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first three months. Plus, earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (excluding Target® and Walmart®) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year
Earning rate: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter! Plus, earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.
Why we picked this card: If you like earning a high cash back rate in categories that rotate each quarter, the $0-annual-fee Chase Freedom Flex℠ is tough to beat.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back from categories that rotate quarterly $0 annual fee Easy-to-earn sign-up bonus Long intro APR on purchases and balance transfers Mastercard World Elite benefits Free credit score access | $1,500 spending cap for bonus categories Bonus categories require activation each quarter Foreign transaction fees |
If you want a solid ongoing cash back rate on dining and drugstore purchases, and your spending also lines up well with the rotating categories, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers the chance to earn generous cash back. Just remember to activate the new bonus category every quarter, and be aware that after spending $1,500 in the quarterly category, your earning rate for such purchases will drop to 1% (meaning you can earn up to $75 cash back at the elevated rate each quarter).
New Chase Freedom Flex℠ cardholders also earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first three months. Plus, earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (excluding Target® and Walmart®) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.
Sign-up bonus: One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Earning rate: 1.5% Cash Back on every purchase, every day; 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)
Why we picked this card: Along with offering a $0 annual fee and simple rewards structure, the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card has a low spend requirement to earn the sign-up bonus.
Pros | Cons |
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$0 annual fee Unlimited cash back rewards Long intro APR on purchases and balance transfers Foreign transaction fees: None Easy-to-earn sign-up bonus | Cash back rate is low Top of range for regular APR is high Balance transfer fee |
This card is best if you prefer a simple cash back earning rate from a $0-annual-fee card. It could also be good for occasional travelers if you book through the Capital One Travel portal.
Because of its long intro APR periods for purchases and balance transfers, this could also be a good choice if you want to transfer a high-interest credit card balance or finance a large purchase.
Sign-up bonus: One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Earning rate: 1.5% Cash Back on every purchase, every day; 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)
Why we picked this card: Along with offering a $0 annual fee and simple rewards structure, the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card has a low spend requirement to earn the sign-up bonus.
Pros | Cons |
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$0 annual fee Unlimited cash back rewards Long intro APR on purchases and balance transfers Foreign transaction fees: None Easy-to-earn sign-up bonus | Cash back rate is low Top of range for regular APR is high Balance transfer fee |
This card is best if you prefer a simple cash back earning rate from a $0-annual-fee card. It could also be good for occasional travelers if you book through the Capital One Travel portal.
Because of its long intro APR periods for purchases and balance transfers, this could also be a good choice if you want to transfer a high-interest credit card balance or finance a large purchase.
Check out our Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card review.
Sign-up bonus: Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Earning rate: Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year. Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn.
Why we picked this card: With a high cash back rate at office supply stores, and on internet, cable and phone services, the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card is a great fit for many small businesses.
Pros | Cons |
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Generous sign-up bonus Excellent cash back rate on typical business categories $0 annual fee Intro APR on purchases Primary rental car insurance | Bonus 5% cash back has a 25,000 annual cap No bonus cash back for travel spend Foreign transaction fees High sign-up bonus spending requirement Excellent credit needed for approval |
If you’re a small business owner who spends a large amount on office supply store purchases and internet, cable and phone services each year, the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card could be a good fit. If you max out the $25,000 spend cap on the 5% earning category, you’ll earn $1,250 back on those purchases alone. And you’ll earn $500 back if you max out the $25,000 spend cap on the 2% earning categories.
That said, if your business primarily spends on travel, this card won’t be ideal for you since it doesn’t offer an accelerated cash back rate on travel purchases, and it charges foreign transaction fees.
Sign-up bonus: Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Earning rate: Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year. Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn.
Why we picked this card: With a high cash back rate at office supply stores, and on internet, cable and phone services, the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card is a great fit for many small businesses.
Pros | Cons |
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Generous sign-up bonus Excellent cash back rate on typical business categories $0 annual fee Intro APR on purchases Primary rental car insurance | Bonus 5% cash back has a 25,000 annual cap No bonus cash back for travel spend Foreign transaction fees High sign-up bonus spending requirement Excellent credit needed for approval |
If you’re a small business owner who spends a large amount on office supply store purchases and internet, cable and phone services each year, the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card could be a good fit. If you max out the $25,000 spend cap on the 5% earning category, you’ll earn $1,250 back on those purchases alone. And you’ll earn $500 back if you max out the $25,000 spend cap on the 2% earning categories.
That said, if your business primarily spends on travel, this card won’t be ideal for you since it doesn’t offer an accelerated cash back rate on travel purchases, and it charges foreign transaction fees.
Check out our Ink Business Cash® Credit Card review.
Sign-up bonus: $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
Earning rate: 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose. 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center. 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants. 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
Why we picked this card: The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card lets you earn a generous cash back rate (up to the quarterly maximum of $2,000) in two categories of your choosing. The card also offers an elevated reward rate on eligible travel purchases and one everyday category.
Pros | Cons |
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High cash back earning rates Customizable earning categories $0 annual fee Long intro APR offer for purchases and balance transfers | Earnings cap for elevated cash back rates $25 minimum cash back redemption Foreign transaction fees Balance transfer fee |
With the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card, you’ll earn 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose. 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center. 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants. 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases. Plus, earn a $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
The $0-annual-fee U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card also offers an interest-free period on purchases for more than a year.
Sign-up bonus: $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
Earning rate: 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose. 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center. 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants. 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
Why we picked this card: The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card lets you earn a generous cash back rate (up to the quarterly maximum of $2,000) in two categories of your choosing. The card also offers an elevated reward rate on eligible travel purchases and one everyday category.
Pros | Cons |
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High cash back earning rates Customizable earning categories $0 annual fee Long intro APR offer for purchases and balance transfers | Earnings cap for elevated cash back rates $25 minimum cash back redemption Foreign transaction fees Balance transfer fee |
With the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card, you’ll earn 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose. 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center. 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants. 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases. Plus, earn a $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
The $0-annual-fee U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card also offers an interest-free period on purchases for more than a year.
Check out our U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card review.
Sign-up bonus: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
Earning rate: 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
Why we picked this card: The Discover it® Cash Back has one of the most unique and valuable sign-up bonuses out there (as do all of the Discover it® cards). Discover will match the cash back you’ve earned in your first year with no minimum or maximum amount. So if you earn $500 in cash back, Discover will give you an additional $500.
Pros | Cons |
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High bonus cash back rate Cash back match the first year Long intro APR offer for purchases and balance transfers Valuable sign-up bonus $0 annual fee No foreign transaction fee | Rotating bonus categories require activation Earnings cap on bonus spending categories Low cash back rate outside of bonus categories Limited acceptance abroad |
The Discover it® Cash Back is best for people looking to take advantage of its sign-up bonus and rotating bonus categories. Below is the cashback calendar for 2023:
January through March: Grocery stores (excluding Target and Walmart), drug stores and select streaming services
April through June: Restaurants and wholesale clubs
July through September: TBA
October through December: TBA
Sign-up bonus: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
Earning rate: 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
Why we picked this card: The Discover it® Cash Back has one of the most unique and valuable sign-up bonuses out there (as do all of the Discover it® cards). Discover will match the cash back you’ve earned in your first year with no minimum or maximum amount. So if you earn $500 in cash back, Discover will give you an additional $500.
Pros | Cons |
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High bonus cash back rate Cash back match the first year Long intro APR offer for purchases and balance transfers Valuable sign-up bonus $0 annual fee No foreign transaction fee | Rotating bonus categories require activation Earnings cap on bonus spending categories Low cash back rate outside of bonus categories Limited acceptance abroad |
The Discover it® Cash Back is best for people looking to take advantage of its sign-up bonus and rotating bonus categories. Below is the cashback calendar for 2023:
January through March: Grocery stores (excluding Target and Walmart), drug stores and select streaming services
April through June: Restaurants and wholesale clubs
July through September: TBA
October through December: TBA
Check out our Discover it® Cash Back review.
Sign-up bonus: Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Earning rate: 3% Cash Back on dining and entertainment; 3% Cash Back on popular streaming services; 3% Cash Back at grocery stores; 1% Cash Back on all other purchases. Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases.
Why we picked this card: The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers one of the highest cash back rates on dining and entertainment currently available. Plus, its sign-up bonus has a low spending requirement.
Pros | Cons |
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$0 annual fee Unlimited earnings High dining and entertainment earning rates Intro APR periods for purchases and balance transfers | Small sign-up bonus Target and Walmart don't fall under grocery category Geared toward consumers with excellent/good credit |
If you’re a foodie, you can benefit from the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card‘s rewards for dining and grocery store purchases, while those who enjoy movies, concerts and sporting events (among other activities) can appreciate earning cash back on entertainment expenses.
As for foreign transaction fees, there are none. This means if you’re planning a trip abroad and want to experience all the culinary goodies your vacation destination has to offer, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is an excellent card to keep in your wallet.
Sign-up bonus: Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Earning rate: 3% Cash Back on dining and entertainment; 3% Cash Back on popular streaming services; 3% Cash Back at grocery stores; 1% Cash Back on all other purchases. Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases.
Why we picked this card: The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers one of the highest cash back rates on dining and entertainment currently available. Plus, its sign-up bonus has a low spending requirement.
Pros | Cons |
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$0 annual fee Unlimited earnings High dining and entertainment earning rates Intro APR periods for purchases and balance transfers | Small sign-up bonus Target and Walmart don't fall under grocery category Geared toward consumers with excellent/good credit |
If you’re a foodie, you can benefit from the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card‘s rewards for dining and grocery store purchases, while those who enjoy movies, concerts and sporting events (among other activities) can appreciate earning cash back on entertainment expenses.
As for foreign transaction fees, there are none. This means if you’re planning a trip abroad and want to experience all the culinary goodies your vacation destination has to offer, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is an excellent card to keep in your wallet.
Check out our Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card review.
Sign-up bonus: $200 after you make $1,000 or more in purchases during the first three billing cycles
Earning rate: Earn 2% on grocery store purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants and 4% on gas station purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually. 1% cash back on purchases everywhere, every time.
Why we picked this card: There are few cards that compare to the PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card when it comes to rewarding you for gas station purchases. If you’re able to max out the $8,000 spending cap on those purchases each year, you’ll earn $320 back.
Pros | Cons |
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High cash back rate on gas, dining and grocery purchases $0 annual fee | $8,000 annual cap on bonus cash back Foreign transaction fees Need at least $25 in cash back rewards to redeem Less competitive sign-up bonus |
If you do a lot of driving and spend over $600 per month on gas, this card is an excellent choice to have in your wallet. You can maximize your cash back by using the card strictly for fuel. Rewards can be redeemed as soon as you have at least $25 in your PNC Rewards account either as a statement credit or into a PNC account.
The card also offers $200 after you make $1,000 or more in purchases during the first three billing cycles.
Sign-up bonus: $200 after you make $1,000 or more in purchases during the first three billing cycles
Earning rate: Earn 2% on grocery store purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants and 4% on gas station purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually. 1% cash back on purchases everywhere, every time.
Why we picked this card: There are few cards that compare to the PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card when it comes to rewarding you for gas station purchases. If you’re able to max out the $8,000 spending cap on those purchases each year, you’ll earn $320 back.
Pros | Cons |
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High cash back rate on gas, dining and grocery purchases $0 annual fee | $8,000 annual cap on bonus cash back Foreign transaction fees Need at least $25 in cash back rewards to redeem Less competitive sign-up bonus |
If you do a lot of driving and spend over $600 per month on gas, this card is an excellent choice to have in your wallet. You can maximize your cash back by using the card strictly for fuel. Rewards can be redeemed as soon as you have at least $25 in your PNC Rewards account either as a statement credit or into a PNC account.
The card also offers $200 after you make $1,000 or more in purchases during the first three billing cycles.
Sign-up bonus: $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
Earning rate: 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Why we picked this card: This is a simple, no-frills card with no earnings cap on any categories. Its straightforward earning rate and $0 annual fee make this a solid flat-rate card to have.
Pros | Cons |
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Flat cash back earning rate $0 annual fee Long intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers | Low sign-up bonus No elevated rewards rates Balance transfer fee |
The Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card is best if you’re looking for a card that offers an unlimited, flat cash back rate on every purchase. Additionally, you’ll earn a $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
You should also consider this for your flat-rate cash back card if you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, since you can increase your earning rate from 1.5% to up to 2.62%.
Sign-up bonus: $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
Earning rate: 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Why we picked this card: This is a simple, no-frills card with no earnings cap on any categories. Its straightforward earning rate and $0 annual fee make this a solid flat-rate card to have.
Pros | Cons |
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Flat cash back earning rate $0 annual fee Long intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers | Low sign-up bonus No elevated rewards rates Balance transfer fee |
The Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card is best if you’re looking for a card that offers an unlimited, flat cash back rate on every purchase. Additionally, you’ll earn a $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
You should also consider this for your flat-rate cash back card if you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, since you can increase your earning rate from 1.5% to up to 2.62%.
Check out our Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card review.
Welcome offer: Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Earning rate: 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more), 1% Cash Back on other purchases. Terms apply.
Why we picked this card: The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express offers the highest cash back rate at U.S. supermarkets currently available.
Pros | Cons |
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Large welcome offer High cash back rate at U.S. supermarkets Long intro APR | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. Foreign transaction fees U.S. supermarket rewards rate capped at $6,000 per year |
To see rates & fees for Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express please click here.
If your budget includes spending a significant amount on grocery shopping, streaming, and gas or transit costs, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is well worth paying a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.. It takes $1,584 in spending per year on categories that earn 6% back to recoup the amount of the annual fee.
Be aware that the elevated rate on U.S. supermarket purchases is capped at $6,000 spent per year, after which your rate will drop to 1%. Still, if you max that out (which would require spending $500 a month), that’s $360 in cash back.
However, if you’re thinking about taking this card abroad with you, know that there’s a foreign transaction fee of 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.
To see rates & fees for Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express please click here.
Welcome offer: Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Earning rate: 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more), 1% Cash Back on other purchases. Terms apply.
Why we picked this card: The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express offers the highest cash back rate at U.S. supermarkets currently available.
Pros | Cons |
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Large welcome offer High cash back rate at U.S. supermarkets Long intro APR | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. Foreign transaction fees U.S. supermarket rewards rate capped at $6,000 per year |
To see rates & fees for Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express please click here.
If your budget includes spending a significant amount on grocery shopping, streaming, and gas or transit costs, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is well worth paying a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.. It takes $1,584 in spending per year on categories that earn 6% back to recoup the amount of the annual fee.
Be aware that the elevated rate on U.S. supermarket purchases is capped at $6,000 spent per year, after which your rate will drop to 1%. Still, if you max that out (which would require spending $500 a month), that’s $360 in cash back.
However, if you’re thinking about taking this card abroad with you, know that there’s a foreign transaction fee of 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.
To see rates & fees for Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express please click here.
Check out our Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express review.
Citi is an advertising partner.
Sign-up bonus: None
Earning rate: Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Why we picked this card: This card offers a generous flat cash back rate on every purchase — plus, its unique earnings structure also incentivizes you to pay in full and on time to earn more cash back.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back earned as flexible ThankYou points Long intro APR on balance transfers Multiple ways to redeem cash back rewards $0 annual fee | Must pay off card to earn half of rewards No intro APR on purchases 3% foreign transaction fee |
The Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer lets you earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
The $0-annual-fee card also offers an introductory APR of 0% for 18 months on Balance Transfers, followed by a 18.49% - 28.49% (Variable) APR.
Citi is an advertising partner.
Sign-up bonus: None
Earning rate: Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Why we picked this card: This card offers a generous flat cash back rate on every purchase — plus, its unique earnings structure also incentivizes you to pay in full and on time to earn more cash back.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back earned as flexible ThankYou points Long intro APR on balance transfers Multiple ways to redeem cash back rewards $0 annual fee | Must pay off card to earn half of rewards No intro APR on purchases 3% foreign transaction fee |
The Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer lets you earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
The $0-annual-fee card also offers an introductory APR of 0% for 18 months on Balance Transfers, followed by a 18.49% - 28.49% (Variable) APR.
Check out our Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer review.
Sign-up bonus: Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval.
Earning rate: 5% back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership, 2% back at restaurants and gas stations and 1% back on all other purchases.
Why we picked this card: If you’re an Amazon Prime member who regularly shops at Amazon.com and/or Whole Foods, the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card is a great option.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back at Amazon and Whole Foods $0 annual fee Visa Signature travel protections | Only available to Amazon Prime members Foreign transaction fees |
If you do much of your online shopping at Amazon, getting the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card could be a no-brainer — it charges a $0 annual fee and earns cash back at a generous rate. For those who already have an Amazon Prime membership, it’s hard to think of a downside. But if you don’t have a Prime membership, you’d only qualify for the Amazon Rewards Visa Card, which earns cash back at a lower rate.
To decide if this card is worth the cost of a Prime membership ($139 for a regular annual membership, $69 for an annual membership at the college student rate), note that you’d need to spend $2,780 on purchases earning 5% back to recoup the cost of a regular membership and $1,380 to recoup the cost of a student membership.
Sign-up bonus: Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval.
Earning rate: 5% back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership, 2% back at restaurants and gas stations and 1% back on all other purchases.
Why we picked this card: If you’re an Amazon Prime member who regularly shops at Amazon.com and/or Whole Foods, the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card is a great option.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back at Amazon and Whole Foods $0 annual fee Visa Signature travel protections | Only available to Amazon Prime members Foreign transaction fees |
If you do much of your online shopping at Amazon, getting the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card could be a no-brainer — it charges a $0 annual fee and earns cash back at a generous rate. For those who already have an Amazon Prime membership, it’s hard to think of a downside. But if you don’t have a Prime membership, you’d only qualify for the Amazon Rewards Visa Card, which earns cash back at a lower rate.
To decide if this card is worth the cost of a Prime membership ($139 for a regular annual membership, $69 for an annual membership at the college student rate), note that you’d need to spend $2,780 on purchases earning 5% back to recoup the cost of a regular membership and $1,380 to recoup the cost of a student membership.
Sign-up bonus: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
Earning rate: 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically
Why we picked this card: The Discover it® Student Cash Back is a great choice for students just starting to build a credit profile. Along with a Cash Back Match bonus, the $0-annual-fee card offers a high cash back rate in categories that rotate quarterly.
Pros | Cons |
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Cash back categories rotate quarterly Geared toward students with limited credit history Matches cash back in first year, for new cardmembers $0 annual fee Intro APR on purchases | $1,500 spending cap for bonus categories Bonus categories require activation each quarter Foreign transaction fees No intro APR on balance transfers Low rewards rate on non-bonus categories |
If you’re a student looking to establish or build your credit, and you don’t mind activating bonus categories each quarter, you should consider the Discover it® Student Cash Back.
You’ll earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
Also earn the following sign-up bonus: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
Sign-up bonus: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
Earning rate: 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically
Why we picked this card: The Discover it® Student Cash Back is a great choice for students just starting to build a credit profile. Along with a Cash Back Match bonus, the $0-annual-fee card offers a high cash back rate in categories that rotate quarterly.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Cash back categories rotate quarterly Geared toward students with limited credit history Matches cash back in first year, for new cardmembers $0 annual fee Intro APR on purchases | $1,500 spending cap for bonus categories Bonus categories require activation each quarter Foreign transaction fees No intro APR on balance transfers Low rewards rate on non-bonus categories |