1 week ago
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Updated
2023-03-16T22:42:54Z
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Cash back credit cards are some of the best credit cards you can get, returning anywhere from 1% to 10% cash back on all kinds of purchases — and often without an annual fee. For people who are just getting into credit card rewards, or who want to keep things simple, cash back credit cards can be a good choice.
Intro offer
Unlimited Cashback Match – Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
Rewards
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. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically.
Intro offer
Unlimited Cashback Match – Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
Rewards
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. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically.
Discover it® Cash Back
Details
Rewards
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. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically.
Intro offer
Unlimited Cashback Match – Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Recommended credit score. Note that credit card lenders may use many different variations of credit score models when considering your application.
Show more
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
16.49% - 27.49% Variable
Intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
Editor's Rating
3.8/5
Our editor's ratings analyze fees, bonuses, rewards, and benefits to highlight the simplest and most valuable credit cards available.
Show more
Pros & Cons
From January 1 to March 31, 2023, you can earn 5% cash back at grocery stores, drug stores and select streaming services on up to $1,500 in purchases after enrollment, then 1%
Discover will match your cash back earned at the end of your first account year
No annual fee
Cap on how much bonus cash back you can earn each quarter
If the quarterly categories aren't convenient for you, you can earn more cash back with a different card
Highlights
- Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
- 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.
- Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It's free, activate with the mobile app.
- Every $1 you earn in cash back is $1 you can redeem
- Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 16.49% to 27.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
- No annual fee.
- Click through to Discover's website to see terms and conditions.
Additional Reading
See Insider's picks for the top cash back credit cards for families, dining, intro APRs, and building credit below.
The Best Cash Back Credit Cards of March 2023
- Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card: Best for flat-rate cash rewards
- Chase Freedom Unlimited®: Best cash back credit card for everyday spending
- Chase Freedom Flex℠ : Best cash back credit card for rotating categories and flexible redemptions
- Discover it® Cash Back: Best cash back credit cards for rotating cash back categories
- Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best cash back credit card for families
- Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best cash back credit card for dining, groceries, and entertainment with no annual fee
- Citi Custom Cash℠ Card: Best cash back credit card for automatically customizing rewards
- U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card: Best cash back credit card for choosing your own bonus categories
- Citi® Double Cash Card: Best cash back credit card for balance transfers
- Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best cash back credit card for fair or average credit
- Discover it® Secured Credit Card: Best cash back credit card for lower credit scores
- Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best cash back credit card for students
- Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card : Best cash back credit card for Bank of America customers
In terms of flexibility, cash back is the king of credit card rewards. Many cash back credit cards give you the option to redeem your accrual as either cash, a statement credit, or a transfer to your bank account.
The Best Cash Back Credit Cards
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Intro offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first three months from account opening
Rewards
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Intro offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first three months from account opening
Rewards
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Details
Rewards
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
Intro offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first three months from account opening
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
19.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% Variable
Intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
0% intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers for 15 months from account opening
Pros & Cons
Good welcome bonus for a $0 annual fee card
Straightforward 2% cash rewards on purchases with no categories to track
Strong benefits including cell phone protection, Visa Signature perks, and a 0% intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
If you've opened a Wells Fargo card in the past 15 months, you may not be eligible for the bonus or intro APR offer
Foreign transaction fees
Highlights
- Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months
- Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
- 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers, then a 19.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% variable APR; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5
- $0 annual fee
- No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don't expire as long as your account remains open
- Enjoy a premium collection of benefits at a selection of the world's most intriguing and prestigious hotel properties with Visa Signature Concierge
- Get up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft when you pay your monthly cell phone bill with your eligible Wells Fargo card (subject to a $25 deductible).
- Select "Apply Now" to learn more about the product features, terms and conditions
Additional Reading
Intro offer
1.5% cash back in addition to regular earning on everything you buy up to $20,000 spent in the first year (worth up to $300 cash back)
Rewards
Earn 5% cash back on Chase travel purchased through Ultimate Rewards®, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro offer
1.5% cash back in addition to regular earning on everything you buy up to $20,000 spent in the first year (worth up to $300 cash back)
Rewards
Earn 5% cash back on Chase travel purchased through Ultimate Rewards®, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Details
Rewards
Earn 5% cash back on Chase travel purchased through Ultimate Rewards®, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro offer
1.5% cash back in addition to regular earning on everything you buy up to $20,000 spent in the first year (worth up to $300 cash back)
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
19.49% - 28.24% Variable
Intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months
Pros & Cons
Solid flat cash-back rate
You can combine cash-back rewards with Ultimate Rewards points if you have an eligible card
No annual fee
Some other cards offer a higher rate of cash back on certain types of purchases
Highlights
- Intro Offer: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
- Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
- After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on Chase travel purchased through Ultimate Rewards®, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
- No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
- Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.49% - 28.24%.
- No annual fee - You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
- Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
Additional Reading
Intro offer
$200 after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening
Rewards
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro offer
$200 after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening
Rewards
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Chase Freedom Flex℠
Details
Rewards
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro offer
$200 after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
19.49% - 28.24% Variable
Intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months
Pros & Cons
No annual fee
Generous bonus cash-back categories
Great welcome bonus
Booking through Chase Ultimate Rewards portal can restrict outside earning potential
Varying percentages and rotating calendar categories require extra attention
3% foreign transaction fees
Highlights
- The information related to the Chase Freedom Flex℠ has been collected by Business Insider and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
- Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
- 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
- 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 unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
- 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.49% - 28.24%.
- No annual fee- You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom FlexSM card
- Keep tabs on your credit health - Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
Additional Reading
Intro offer
Unlimited Cashback Match – Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
Rewards
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. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically.
Intro offer
Unlimited Cashback Match – Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
Rewards
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. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically.
Discover it® Cash Back
Details
Rewards
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. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically.
Intro offer
Unlimited Cashback Match – Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Recommended credit score. Note that credit card lenders may use many different variations of credit score models when considering your application.
Show more
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
16.49% - 27.49% Variable
Intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
Editor's Rating
3.8/5
Our editor's ratings analyze fees, bonuses, rewards, and benefits to highlight the simplest and most valuable credit cards available.
Show more
Pros & Cons
From January 1 to March 31, 2023, you can earn 5% cash back at grocery stores, drug stores and select streaming services on up to $1,500 in purchases after enrollment, then 1%
Discover will match your cash back earned at the end of your first account year
No annual fee
Cap on how much bonus cash back you can earn each quarter
If the quarterly categories aren't convenient for you, you can earn more cash back with a different card
Highlights
- Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
- 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.
- Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It's free, activate with the mobile app.
- Every $1 you earn in cash back is $1 you can redeem
- Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 16.49% to 27.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
- No annual fee.
- Click through to Discover's website to see terms and conditions.
Additional Reading
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Intro offer
$250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first six months from account opening
Rewards
Earn 6% cash back on purchases at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%). Earn 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions. Earn 3% cash back on transit (including taxis, rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses, and more). Earn 3% cash back on gas at U.S. gas stations. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
$0 intro for the first year, then $95
Annual Fee
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Intro offer
$250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first six months from account opening
Rewards
Earn 6% cash back on purchases at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%). Earn 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions. Earn 3% cash back on transit (including taxis, rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses, and more). Earn 3% cash back on gas at U.S. gas stations. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
$0 intro for the first year, then $95
Annual Fee
$0 intro for the first year, then $95
Annual Fee
On American Express's website
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Details
Rewards
Earn 6% cash back on purchases at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%). Earn 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions. Earn 3% cash back on transit (including taxis, rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses, and more). Earn 3% cash back on gas at U.S. gas stations. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Annual Fee
$0 intro for the first year, then $95
Intro offer
$250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first six months from account opening
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
18.49% - 29.49% Variable
Intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers from the date of account opening
Pros & Cons
Generous bonus rewards, especially at U.S. supermarkets
One of a small handful of credit cards that offer bonus rewards on select streaming services
Intro APR offer
Unlike many other cash-back cards, it charges an annual fee
If you spend more than $6,000 at US supermarkets each year, you'll want to use another card once you reach that cap
Highlights
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
- $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
- Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
- Low intro APR: 0% for 12 months on purchases from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% to 29.49%
- 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.
- Get $7 back each month after using your Blue Cash Preferred Card to spend $12.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription to The Disney Bundle, which includes Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+. Enrollment required.
- Terms Apply.
- See Rates & Fees
Additional Reading
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Intro offer
$200 cash bonus once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Rewards
Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024. Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases. Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®). Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Intro offer
$200 cash bonus once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Rewards
Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024. Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases. Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®). Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Details
Rewards
Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024. Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases. Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®). Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro offer
$200 cash bonus once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
19.24% - 29.24% Variable
Intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months (3% fee on the amounts transferred within the first 15 months)
Pros & Cons
No annual fee
Bonus cash back on dining, entertainment, and grocery store purchases
Long intro APR period for purchases and balance transfers
Other cards earn more cash back in certain bonus categories
Not the highest sign-up bonus among cash-back cards
Highlights
- Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other purchases
- Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
- Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
- Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
- No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
- 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.24% - 29.24% variable APR after that; 3% fee on the amounts transferred within the first 15 months
- No foreign transaction fee
- No annual fee
Additional Reading
Intro offer
$200 cash back, fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening
Rewards
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. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro offer
$200 cash back, fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening
Rewards
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. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Apply online at Citibank's website.
Citi Custom Cash℠ Card
Details
Rewards
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. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro offer
$200 cash back, fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
18.49% - 28.49% Variable
Intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
0% intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months
Editor's Rating
4/5
Our editor's ratings analyze fees, bonuses, rewards, and benefits to highlight the simplest and most valuable credit cards available.
Show more
Pros & Cons
Flexibility to customize rewards by earning 5% cash back on up to $500 per billing cycle in your top spending category (from a list)
Generous welcome offer for a no-annual-fee card
No rotating bonus categories to sign up for or track
Earn valuable Citi ThankYou points which you can redeem for cash back, travel, gift cards, merchandise, and more
Only earns 1% back outside of $500 in top spending category each billing cycle
Foreign transaction fee of 3%
Highlights
- Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
- 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness.
- 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. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- No rotating bonus categories to sign up for - as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
- No Annual Fee
- Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash℠ Card account per person.
Additional Reading
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
Intro offer
$200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
Rewards
Earn 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose. Earn 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center. Earn 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants. Earn 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
Intro offer
$200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
Rewards
Earn 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose. Earn 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center. Earn 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants. Earn 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
This card is a good choice if you want to maximize your cash-back earnings by earning more in your eligible top spending categories. It's got a decent welcome bonus and earns up to 5% back, but keep in mind the highest rewards rates are capped at $2,000 in purchases per quarter. Be sure to see if the card's bonus categories line up with your spending habits before you apply; otherwise, you may do better with a flat-rate cash-back card instead.
Details
Rewards
Earn 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose. Earn 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center. Earn 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants. Earn 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer
$200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
18.99% - 28.99% Variable
Intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 billing cycles
Pros & Cons
Generous cash-back earning and welcome bonus for a no-annual-fee card
Ability to choose the best 5% and 2% cash-back categories for you
Introductory 0% APR offer on purchases and balance transfers
5% cash-back category is capped at $2,000 in purchases per quarter
Foreign transaction fees
Highlights
- $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening.
- 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
- 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 18.99 - 28.99%
- No Annual Fee
- Terms and conditions apply.
Additional Reading
Intro offer
0% intro APR for 18 months from date of first transfer for balance transfers made within 4 months of account opening, then 18.49% - 28.49% variable APR
Rewards
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Intro offer
0% intro APR for 18 months from date of first transfer for balance transfers made within 4 months of account opening, then 18.49% - 28.49% variable APR
Rewards
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Apply online at Citibank's website.
Citi® Double Cash Card
Details
Rewards
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Intro offer
0% intro APR for 18 months from date of first transfer for balance transfers made within 4 months of account opening, then 18.49% - 28.49% variable APR
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Recommended credit score. Note that credit card lenders may use many different variations of credit score models when considering your application.
Show more
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
18.49% - 28.49% Variable
Intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
0% intro APR for 18 months from date of first transfer for balance transfers made within 4 months of account opening
Editor's Rating
3.65/5
Our editor's ratings analyze fees, bonuses, rewards, and benefits to highlight the simplest and most valuable credit cards available.
Show more
Pros & Cons
No annual fee
Simple earning structure without confusing bonus categories
Some cards earn higher rates of cash back on rotating categories
While it has a 0% introductory APR offer, that's only on balance transfers, not purchases, so you can't use it to fund a major expense without interest
Highlights
- Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
- To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time.
- Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness.
- Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
- If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
- There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Additional Reading
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
Intro offer
One-time $200 cash bonus once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months of account opening
Rewards
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
Intro offer
One-time $200 cash bonus once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months of account opening
Rewards
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
Details
Rewards
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Intro offer
One-time $200 cash bonus once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months of account opening
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
19.24% - 29.24% Variable
Intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months (3% fee on the amounts transferred within the first 15 months)
Pros & Cons
Earns 1.5% cash back on every purchase
Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
No annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
Other cards earn more cash back
Highlights
- Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
- $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
- Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
- Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
- No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
- 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.24%-29.24% variable APR after that; 3% fee on the amounts transferred within the first 15 months
Additional Reading
Discover it® Secured Credit Card
Intro offer
Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
Rewards
Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. Earn 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases
Discover it® Secured Credit Card
Intro offer
Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
Rewards
Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. Earn 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases
Discover it® Secured Credit Card
Details
Rewards
Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. Earn 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases
Intro offer
Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
Recommended Credit
New/Rebuilding
Recommended credit score. Note that credit card lenders may use many different variations of credit score models when considering your application.
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Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
27.49% Variable
Editor's Rating
3.6/5
Our editor's ratings analyze fees, bonuses, rewards, and benefits to highlight the simplest and most valuable credit cards available.
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Pros & Cons
Offers cash-back rewards, which isn't a given for secured credit cards
Discover matches cash back after your first account year
Other secured cards let you start with lower minimum security deposits
You must fund the security deposit from a bank account
Highlights
- No credit score required to apply.
- No Annual Fee.
- Use your tax refund to fund your security deposit and start building your credit history. Your credit line will equal your deposit amount, starting at $200. Bank information must be provided when submitting your deposit.
- Automatic reviews starting at 7 months to see if we can transition you to an unsecured line of credit and return your deposit.
- Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
- Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It's free, activate with the mobile app.
- Get an alert if we find your Social Security number on any of thousands of Dark Web sites. Activate for free.
- Click through to Discover's website to see terms and conditions.
Additional Reading
Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
Intro offer
$50 cash bonus once you spend $100 on purchases within 3 months of account opening
Rewards
Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
Intro offer
$50 cash bonus once you spend $100 on purchases within 3 months of account opening
Rewards
Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
Details
Rewards
Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro offer
$50 cash bonus once you spend $100 on purchases within 3 months of account opening
Recommended Credit
Average, Fair, Limited
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
19.24% - 29.24% Variable
Pros & Cons
Good welcome bonus with an easy spending requirement
Strong 3% cash back earning in popular everyday spending categories for students like dining, entertainment, eligible streaming services, and grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®)
No annual fee or foreign transaction fees
Only available to college students
Highlights
- Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), with 1% on all other purchases
- Early Spend Bonus: Earn $50 when you spend $100 in the first three months
- Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
- Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
- Enjoy no annual fee, foreign transaction fees, or hidden fees
- Lock your card in the Capital One Mobile app if it's misplaced, lost or stolen
- Earn up to $500 a year by referring friends and family when they're approved for a Capital One credit card
- Earn 8% cash back on entertainment purchases when you book through the Capital One Entertainment portal
- Build your credit with responsible card use
- Whether you're at a 4-year university, community college or other higher education institution, this card might be an option for you
Additional Reading
Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card
Intro offer
$200 online cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days from account opening
Rewards
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card
Intro offer
$200 online cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days from account opening
Rewards
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
On Bank of America's website
Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card
Details
Rewards
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
Intro offer
$200 online cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days from account opening
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
17.74% - 27.74% Variable
Intro Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
0% intro APR for your first 18 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made within the first 60 days of opening your account
Pros & Cons
Decent welcome bonus
Generous 0% APR offer on purchases and balance transfers
You can earn up to 75% more rewards for your spending if you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards customer
3% foreign transaction fee
Other cards offer better travel and purchase benefits
Highlights
- The information related to the Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card has been collected by Business Insider and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
- No limit to the amount of cash back you can earn and cash rewards do not expire
- Online $200 cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening
- Enjoy no annual fee while earning unlimited cash back on all purchases
- Preferred Rewards members earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn up to 2.62% cash back on every purchase.
Additional Reading
Methodology
We narrowed down the dozens of cash back credit cards currently available to new applicants by looking at a few factors:
- Ease of use — Are there any hoops to jump through, like needing to be a member of a specific bank?
- Cash-back earning potential — How much cash back can you earn with this card, and how broad are the bonus categories?
- Annual fee — Many cash back cards waive an annual fee, but for the few that do charge a fee, is it justified based on the card's rewards?
- Options for various types of consumers — We wanted our top cash back card picks to reflect different types of users, from families looking to maximize grocery spending to those looking to rebuild their credit score.
See a full breakdown of how we rate credit cards at Insider.
Compare the Best Cash Back Credit Cards
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Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
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Chase Freedom Unlimited®
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Chase Freedom Flex℠
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Discover it® Cash Back
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Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
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Citi Custom Cash℠ Card
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U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
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Citi® Double Cash Card
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Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
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Discover it® Secured Credit Card
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Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
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Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
19.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% Variable
Earn 5% cash back on Chase travel purchased through Ultimate Rewards®, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
19.49% - 28.24% Variable
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
19.49% - 28.24% Variable
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. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically.
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
16.49% - 27.49% Variable
Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024. Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases. Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®). Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
19.24% - 29.24% Variable
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. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
18.49% - 28.49% Variable
Earn 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose. Earn 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center. Earn 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants. Earn 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
18.99% - 28.99% Variable
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
18.49% - 28.49% Variable
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
19.24% - 29.24% Variable
Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. Earn 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
27.49% Variable
Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
19.24% - 29.24% Variable
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
Regular Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
17.74% - 27.74% Variable
Cash Back Credit Cards FAQ
Cash-back credit cards earn you a percentage of cash back — usually at least 1%— on every dollar you spend (or more with cards that have bonus cash back categories). You can transfer the cash back you earn from these cards to a bank account, use them to wipe charges from your credit card statement, or redeem them for gifts and merchandise.
Cash-back credit cards do give cash, but that's not to say you'll necessarily see the physical cash. You're typically awarded cash back as a credit that you can use to cancel out purchases from your credit card statement, or to redeem for gift cards or merchandise online.
The Amex Blue Cash Preferred earns 6% back on the first $6,000 you spend each calendar year at US supermarkets (then 1% back), and 6% back on select US streaming services, for example, and the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card is the most rewarding pick for dining out with 4% back. Different cards earn the most cash back in different categories, so you'll want to factor in your spending habits and preferences when deciding which cash-back card makes the most sense for you.
A cash back card could be better than a travel or rewards card, depending on what you want to do with your rewards. If you primarily want to put money back in your bank account rather than earn rewards you can redeem for travel, a cash back credit card is ideal — and you usually won't have to pay a very high annual fee, if you have to pay one at all.
To make the most of a cash back credit card, always pay the balance in full each month. Also, read up on rewards rates for different spending areas (some cards offer elevated rates in areas like restaurants, gas stations, or supermarkets). Make sure to actually redeem your cash back instead of letting it pile up, and consider opening a "sister" card from the same issuer to transfer points and miles to where they're worth the most.
Best Cash Back Card for Flat-rate Rewards
Not only does the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card rank highly in this guide, but it also tops our list of the best 2% cash back credit cards. It earns a flat rewards rate on everything — 2% cash rewards on purchases, with no bonus categories to keep track of.
It offers a substantial welcome bonus for a no-annual-fee card: $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first three months from account opening. In addition, new cardholders get a 0% intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers for 15 months from account opening (followed by a 19.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% Variable APR), which is super useful if you have large expenses you want to pay off over time.
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card comes with a good array of benefits, which include cell phone protection, roadside dispatch, travel emergency assistance, and access to the Visa Signature Concierge. However, it does charge foreign transaction fees, so if you're traveling outside the US, you'll want to pack a different card.
Wells Fargo Active Cash card review
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Everyday Spending
If you're looking for a card that combines strong bonus categories with decent flat-rate rewards on non-bonus spending, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® could fit the bill. It offers 5% cash back (5x points) on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% cash back (3x points) on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% cash back (1.5x points) on everything else.
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® has no annual fee and offers a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months. After that, there's a 19.49% - 28.24% Variable. If you have a major purchase ahead of you, that introductory offer can be useful.
If you also have an annual-fee Chase Ultimate Rewards card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card, you can pool your points from the two cards. Then, you'll be able to transfer the whole body of points to Chase's airline and hotel partners or use them to book travel through Chase with a bonus.
Plus, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® has a substantial welcome offer: 1.5% cash back in addition to regular earning on everything you buy up to $20,000 spent in the first year (worth up to $300 cash back).
Chase Freedom Unlimited review
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Rotating Categories and Flexible Redemptions
Chase Freedom Flex
Unlike the Chase Freedom Unlimited®, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ earns 5% cash back on up to $1,500 spent in combined purchases (then 1%) within certain bonus categories each quarter of the year (activation is required). From January 1 to March 31, 2023, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ bonus categories are grocery stores, Target, and fitness/gym club memberships. And from April 1 to June 30, 2023, the categories are Amazon and Lowe's.
Sometimes there's just one major category per quarter, while other times there can be a few different ones. Past categories have included gas stations, local commuter transportation, department stores, drug stores, restaurants, and movie theaters.
The Chase Freedom Flex℠ also earns 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% back on dining and drugstores, and 1% back on everything else. These other bonus categories are exactly what you'll find on the Chase Freedom Unlimited®.
Right now, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers a welcome bonus of $200 after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. There's no annual fee.
It also has a generous list of benefits for a no-annual-fee card, such as cell phone protection, purchase protection, auto rental collision damage waiver, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, as well as travel and emergency assistance services.
Chase Freedom Flex credit card review
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Rotating Cash Back Categories
If you prefer a card that earns straight cash back, not points, and like the idea of rotating bonus categories, the Discover it® Cash Back could be a great fit. You can earn 5% cash back in popular rotating quarterly bonus categories when you activate, on up to $1,500 in combined spending (then 1%). You'll also earn 1% back everywhere else (from January 1 to March 31, 2023, you can earn 5% cash back at grocery stores, drug stores and select streaming services on up to $1,500 in purchases after enrollment, then 1%).
The Discover cash back calendar for Q2 2023 was recently revealed. From April 1 to June 30, 2023, the bonus categories will be restaurants and wholesale clubs.
Instead of a regular welcome bonus, Discover rewards new cardholders in a different way. After the first 12 months, it will match all of the rewards you earn from the card through the Discover Cashback Match program. That means you can effectively earn up to 10% back in your first year — and if you're a big spender, this can pay off handsomely.
Discover it Cash Back card review
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Families
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
If you're looking for an American Express cash back card, especially if you have a large family that spends a lot on groceries, streaming, and commuting, the Amex Blue Cash Preferred is an excellent option. The Amex Blue Cash Preferred offers a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers from the date of account opening, before switching to a 18.49% - 29.49% Variable APR.
Currently, the card offers a welcome bonus of $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first six months from account opening. It also comes with a handful of travel and shopping protections, including car rental insurance, return protection, purchase protection, and extended warranty.
Keep in mind there's an annual fee of $0 intro for the first year, then $95, so you'll want to be sure you spend enough to justify paying it. If you prefer a no-annual-fee Amex cash-back card, check out the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express instead.
The Amex Blue Cash Preferred offers the highest rewards rate available for grocery spending, although there is a $6,000 annual spending cap on that 6% rate. After that, you earn 1% (cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as statement credits). Otherwise, the card earns 6% back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% back at U.S. gas stations and on transit, and 1% back on all other purchases.
American Express Blue Cash Preferred review
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Dining, Groceries, and Entertainment With No Annual Fee
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card seems almost custom-made for folks who like to get out and experience life to the fullest. If you're a foodie, love attending concerts and sporting events, or even enjoy entertaining at home, this no-annual-fee card can help you earn a lot of rewards for your spending.
Cardholders earn 3% cash back on dining, at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target), entertainment, and popular streaming services, and 1% cash back on all other purchases. The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card also offers 5% cash back on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel.
The welcome bonus is generous, too: $200 cash bonus once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening. And if you've got big purchases coming up, a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months (3% fee on the amounts transferred within the first 15 months) (followed by a 19.24% - 29.24% Variable APR) can make it easier to spread out your payments.
This card offers a handful of good benefits, including extended warranty, travel accident insurance***, and travel emergency assistance services. As with all other Capital One credit cards, you won't pay foreign transaction fees on international purchases, so it's great to use when you're out globetrotting.
Also, if you don't think your credit score is good enough to qualify for the regular version of the card, and you're currently enrolled in college, you could apply for the student version of the card in order to convert to the regular version after graduation.
Capital One SavorOne card review
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Automatically Customizing Rewards
For a more hands-off approach to maximizing your rewards, the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card offers 5% cash back on up to $500 in purchases in the eligible category you spend the most in each billing cycle (then 1%):
- Restaurants
- Gas stations
- Grocery stores
- Select travel
- Select transit
- Select streaming
- Drugstores
- Home improvement stores
- Fitness clubs
- Live entertainment
Plus, you'll earn 1% on all other purchases. It also comes with a decent welcome offer for a no-annual-fee card: $200 cash back, fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening.
If your spending habits tend to change from time to time, this card is worth a look — especially because the list of eligible categories includes lots of common expenses.
While the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card is advertised as a cash-back credit card, it actually earns Citi ThankYou points. You can redeem your points for cash back, travel booked through Citi, gift cards, merchandise, and more at a rate of 1 cent per point.
However, you could potentially get more value from your rewards if you also have the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card (no longer available to new applicants). That's because you can pool your points in either of these card accounts and then transfer them to airline and hotel partners, including JetBlue, Singapore Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, and Wyndham Rewards.
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Choosing Your Own Bonus Categories
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
One of the newer types of cards offers the ability to choose your own bonus categories, and they're a great way to maximize your cash back by earning the highest rewards on the purchases you make the most. The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card leads the way in this regard, because it offers 5% cash back on two eligible categories of your choice (from the list below), on up to $2,000 in combined purchases each quarter (then 1% back):
- Prepaid air travel
- Hotel stays
- Car reservations booked through the Rewards Center
- Fast food
- Home utilities
- TV, internet, and streaming services
- Department and electronic stores
- Cell phone providers
- Sporting goods stores
- Furniture Stores
- Movie theaters
- Gyms and fitness centers
- Ground transportation
- Select clothing stores
Cardholders also get to choose a 2% cash back "everyday" category from gas and EV charging stations, restaurants, or grocery stores, and earn 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
New cardholders can earn a $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening, which is a solid offer for a no-annual-fee card. After opening your account, you'll also qualify for a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 billing cycles (then a 18.99% - 28.99% Variable APR).
As a Visa Signature card, it comes with additional perks including Visa Signature concierge and Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection access, travel and emergency assistance, and roadside dispatch.
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Balance Transfers
The Citi® Double Cash Card was once our overall favorite flat-rate cash back card, but it's since been overshadowed by the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card, which offers more benefits, and the same effective cash rewards rate on purchases.
That said, the Citi® Double Cash Card still earns decent flat-rate rewards on all purchases for no annual fee. It earns 1 point per dollar as you spend, and 1 point per dollar when you pay your bill (worth a total of 2% cash back). So if you're looking for straightforward rewards when you spend, the Citi® Double Cash Card is worth considering.
With that, the Citi® Double Cash Card also has an advantage if you're looking to open one of the best balance transfer credit cards. New cardholders get a 0% intro APR for 18 months from date of first transfer for balance transfers made within 4 months of account opening (then a 18.49% - 28.49% Variable APR).
The Citi® Double Cash Card doesn't offer a whole lot of other benefits, so it makes the most sense if you're specifically after a generous balance transfer offer (or want a card that earns Citi ThankYou points to boost your stash — yes, you can combine the points from this card with other ThankYou points-earning cards like the Citi Premier® Card).
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Fair or Average Credit
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
If you're new to credit or working on building (or rebuilding) your credit score, it's quite possible you'll fall into the "fair" credit range. Fair or average credit is defined as any FICO score between 580 to 669 on a 300 to 850 scale, and unfortunately, there aren't as many good options for earning credit card rewards if that's where your score lands.
The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card (and other eligible Capital One cards) currently get cardholders up to six months of Uber One monthly membership (offer ends November 14, 2024). With this promotion, you can get perks like $0 delivery fees on eligible Uber Eats orders and member exclusive discounts.
A handful of credit cards for fair or average credit do come with decent earning rates, albeit without a welcome bonus. The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is among the best of the bunch, offering 1.5% cash back on all eligible purchases (with the exception of hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, which earn 5% cash back), with no caps.
As with many cards geared toward those with lower credit scores, the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card charges an annual fee ($39). But, like other Capital One cards, it doesn't add any foreign transaction fees to international purchases, so it's a safe bet to use abroad.
Capital One QuicksilverOne card review
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Lower Credit Scores
Discover it® Secured Credit Card
If you have a bad credit score or a limited credit history, you may not be approved for some of the other cash back credit card options outlined in this article. In that case, the Discover it® Secured Credit Card — one of the best secured credit cards on the market — could make the most sense.
Since it's a secured credit card (meaning you put down money as a refundable deposit to "secure" your account), it's easier to get approved for this card. With the Discover it® Secured Credit Card, automatic reviews start at seven months to see if Discover can transition you to an unsecured line of credit and return your deposit.
Discover it Secured credit card review
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Students
Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
Applying for a credit card when you're still in college can be a little tricky because most students don't have a long credit history or high credit score. Student credit cards are more accessible because they typically only require fair or average credit to get approved.
The Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is a great choice if your spending habits are typical of many college students. It earns 3% cash back on dining (including restaurants, bars, cafes, and lounges), at grocery stores (except superstores like Walmart and Target), entertainment (such as movies, professional sporting events, and amusement parks), and popular streaming services (like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+).
It also earns 5% cash back on car rentals and hotels booked through Capital One Travel, 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases, and 10% cash back on Uber and Uber Eats purchases through November 14, 2024. All other purchases earn 1% back.
This card comes with built-in travel and purchase coverage you don't often find on student credit cards, including price protection***, extended warranty***, car rental insurance***, roadside dispatch***, and travel accident insurance***. There are no foreign transaction fees to worry about, so if you're heading out on a study-abroad program or plan to travel during your summer breaks, using your card won't result in extra charges.
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Student credit card review
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Bank of America Customers
Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card
On the surface, the Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card doesn't particularly stand out. It earns 1.5% cash back on all purchases and comes with a welcome bonus of $200 online cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days from account opening — a decent return, to be sure, but not more compelling than similar cards.
But the card has one feature that can make it a lot more appealing if you're already a Bank of America customer. Bank of America Preferred Rewards members can earn 25% to 75% more cash back with this card, depending on their rewards tier. Effectively, Preferred Rewards members at the highest level can earn 2.625% cash back on all purchases, which is hard to beat for a no-annual-fee card.
The Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card can also be a good choice if you're looking for an intro APR offer. New cardholders receive a 0% intro APR for your first 18 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made within the first 60 days of opening your account, followed by a 17.74% - 27.74% Variable APR.
Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card review
Other Cash Back Credit Cards We Considered
We evaluated dozens of cash back credit cards and chose 13 of the very best in the most broadly useful categories for our list. Several other cards were on our shortlist, and they're all very good in their own right, but for various reasons, they didn't quite cut it.
Here are some of the cards that didn't make it, and why:
- Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card— While it offers a bigger welcome bonus and slightly stronger rewards rate than its sibling, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card, it also charges a $95 annual fee. You'd have put a lot of spending on the card to justify the extra cost, so for most folks, the no-annual-fee version is a better deal. Here's our Capital One Savor card review.
- Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card — This card is good for choosing your own bonus categories, but you'll only earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, versus two 5% cash-back categories of your choice on the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card. That said, if you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, this card could be a lot more lucrative. Read our Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card review to find out more.
- Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card — This card is a decent choice if you're looking for a card that earns 1.5% cash back on most purchases, but other cards, like the Chase Freedom Unlimited® and Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card, offer opportunities to earn more rewards and benefits. That said, Quicksilver Cash Rewards cardholders can get up to six months of Uber One membership (offer ends November 14, 2024). You can find side-by-side comparisons in our Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards credit card review.
- Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express — This is a decent option if you want a card with no annual fee that earns bonus rewards on groceries, gas station purchases, and online retail purchases, but the 3% cash back it earns at US supermarkets only applies to the first $6,000 spent each calendar year (then 1% back). To compare, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card earns an unlimited 3% on groceries worldwide, plus on dining, entertainment, and eligible streaming. Here's our Blue Cash Everyday Amex card review if you want to learn more.
- Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card — If you're an Amazon Prime member, earning 5% cash back at Amazon and Whole Foods with this card is hard to beat (and 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores is nothing to sniff at, either). But if you're not a Prime member or don't spend a lot at Amazon, other cards are probably a better pick. Check out our Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature card review for a closer look.
- U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards™ Visa Signature® Card — This brand-new card from US Bank earns up to 6% back on purchases from two eligible retailers you pick every quarter, including Walmart, Amazon, and Target. However, the 6% rate is capped at $1,500 in cash back combined per quarter (then 1.5% back), and there's an annual fee of $0 intro for the first year, then $95. Read our US Bank Shopper Cash Rewards card review for all the details.
About Cash Back Credit Cards
Cash back credit cards can be an easy way to break into the world of credit card rewards. They come in a few different types:
- Flat rate — These cards earn the same rate of cash back on all purchases. For example, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® earns 1.5% back on most spending (the Freedom Unlimited also offers bonus cash back on eligible travel, dining, and drugstore purchases).
- Select bonus categories — Many other cash back cards offer bonus cash back (more than 1%) on select spending categories. For example, with the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card, you'll earn 4% back on dining, streaming services, and entertainment, and 3% back at grocery stores.
- Rotating categories — A few cards, including the Chase Freedom Flex℠, offer bonus cash back on a selection of spending categories that changes every quarter of the year. These cards have a cap on how much bonus cash back you can earn each quarter — with the Chase Freedom Flex℠, you'll earn 5% back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases each quarter (then 1%).
- Some cards are starting to offer yet a fourth format for delivering cash back rewards: pick your own bonus categories from a list of options. These cards include the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card and the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card.
If you're willing to juggle multiple credit card accounts, there's value in having both cash back and points-earning cards. If you prefer a single-card strategy, evaluate your goals and consider how much you're willing to pay in annual fees to make the best decision for your situation.
If you're trying to put money back in your wallet, our top recommendations are to transfer your cash back to a bank account or use it to reduce the amount owed on your credit card statement.
On the other hand, if you're hoping to earn rewards that you can redeem for travel, a card that earns points is more up your alley. Our picks for best points-earning rewards cards earn either Amex Membership Rewards points, Chase Ultimate Rewards points, Citi ThankYou Rewards points, or Capital One miles. You can transfer all of these currencies to travel partners and redeem them for things like free flights. (Note that while Capital One calls its rewards currency "miles," they aren't miles with a given airline program.)
How to Use a Cash Back Credit Card
Remember that a credit card — cash back or otherwise — won't be worth it if you're paying interest or late fees. When using a credit card, it's important to pay your balance in full each month, make payments on time, and only spend what you can afford to pay.
Cash back cards vary greatly in their return rates — you can earn anywhere from 1% to 6% back. Even better, many cash back cards have no annual fee, so you don't have to pay for the privilege of earning rewards.
If you're new to rewards credit cards and aren't interested in earning travel points or miles, a cash back card is the best option for you. With cash back cards, 1% back will always be 1 cent back, no matter what, and you can use your cash back to lower your monthly bill or transfer it to your checking account, among other options.
The best cash back credit card for you depends on your spending habits and if you prefer a flat rate of cash back on all spending or earning bonus cash back on specific types of purchases. Flat-rate cash back cards are best for those who don't want to keep track of multiple bonus categories and just want a simple earning structure.
But if you really want to maximize your rewards earning, choosing a card that earns bonus cash back in categories where you spend a lot — like groceries, dining, or gas — can make a huge difference in your rate of return.
How to Choose a Cash Back Credit Card
The best cash back card is different for everyone. To find the best one for you, you'll want to look for a few things:
- The cash back rate for your common spending categories. Extra cash back for gas isn't much use if you don't drive. Consider how you intend to use this card, and look at the rate for those spending categories.
- How you redeem your cash back. Make sure you're clear on what you're earning. Is it statement credit? Cash? Points? If points, can they be combined with or transferred to other cards you have, or brands you like?
- The annual fee. An annual fee may make or break your choice. Are you willing to pay one? And more importantly, can you afford it comfortably — or will it be effectively wiped out by the cash back you'll earn in a year?
We don't mention the APR because the rate only applies if you're carrying a balance on your credit card. We recommend applying for a cash back credit card intending to pay off the balance in full each month. For other categories of credit cards, like balance transfer cards, the APR might be a more important consideration.
If this all sounds too complicated, you can't go wrong by using the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card, which has no annual fee and a flat earning rate of 2% cash rewards on purchases.
Cash back credit cards are often best used in combination with cards that earn points to create a complete credit card portfolio that takes advantage of multiple types of rewards. If you're trying to decide whether to open a cash back credit card, whether as your first card or one of many, bear these pros and cons in mind:
Pros of cash back credit cards:
- They rarely carry annual fees
- There are no restrictions on how you can redeem and spend the cash
- You can earn airline and hotel status by booking with cash (but not points)
Cons of cash back credit cards:
- They rarely offer large sign-up or welcome bonuses
- Cash back is generally less valuable, dollar for dollar, than points
If you have a cash back credit card or are considering opening one, you'll want to make the most of it. Keep the following steps in mind to get the most value from your card:
Always pay the balance in full. Credit card cash back or points aren't useful if you're carrying a balance and paying interest charges each month. To make the most of rewards, use your card responsibly: Spend only the money you have and pay your bill in full each month.
Read up on rewards rates for different spending areas. Some cash back cards offer elevated rewards rates on specific spending areas, like restaurants, gas stations, or supermarkets. Some of these cards even change those areas from quarter to quarter, meaning you'll want to stay on top of where your card earns the most and when. If you're using this card for every purchase, you don't need to be as diligent, but if you're using your card as one of many you'll want to be sure you know how to maximize rewards.
Make sure to redeem your cash back. It might be tempting to let your cash back pile up just to watch the total tick up, but it's more useful if you redeem it. You can generally apply the cash to your card balance or get it deposited in your checking account, and either one is a fine option.
Consider opening a "sister" card. As mentioned above, in some cases, you can transfer cash back to a points-earning card on which your rewards are worth more. Chase cards are an example of this: If you hold a cash back card like the Chase Freedom Flex℠ and a points-earning card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, you can transfer cash back earned on the Freedom Flex (which is technically earned in Chase Ultimate Rewards Points) to the Sapphire Preferred, and unlock more redemption options. This strategy isn't required to make the most of your cash back card, but it can help take rewards to the next level.
Jasmin Baron is an editor at Insider, responsible for credit card coverage on Personal Finance Insider. She is also a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF).Before joining the Insider team, she was a senior editor at The Points Guy and Million Mile Secrets, covering credit cards, points and miles, and loyalty programs. Her expertise in maximizing travel rewards grew from over two decades of experience in the aviation industry, including 18 years working as a pilot and flight instructor in her native Canada.You can reach Jasmin at jbaron@insider.com. Learn more about how Personal Finance Insider chooses, rates, and covers financial products and services »
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Tessa Campbell
Personal Finance Reviews Fellow
Tessa Campbell was a Personal Finance Reviews Fellow who reported on credit cards. Prior to joining Insider, she completed her bachelor's degree at Susquehanna University as part of the 2022 class. Her creative nonfiction pieces and poetry have appeared in publications including Essay Magazine and Omnivisum. Her love of books, research, and coffee enriches her day-to-day life.
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Angela Fung
Marketing Compliance Manager
Angela Fung is a marketing compliance manager at Personal Finance Insider, overseeing a team that ensures content accuracy and editorial independence so readers are always getting up-to-date and objective financial advice. She is the primary contact for credit cards compliance and has experience managing content and partnerships for the banking, loans, and investment verticals as well. Personal Finance Insider is Insider's personal finance section that incorporates affiliate and commerce partnerships into the news, insights, and advice about money that Insider readers already know and love. The compliance team's mission is to provide readers with stories that are fact-checked and current, so they can make informed financial decisions. The team also works to minimize risk for partners by making sure language is clear, precise, and fully compliant with regulatory and partner marketing guidelines that align with the editorial team. Prior to joining Insider in February 2021, Angela worked at the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Chicago. As a digital marketer on the in-house communications and programming team, she supported startups and individuals looking to commercialize their research, partner with other companies, or attract venture capital.
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For rates and fees of Discover it® Secured Credit Card, please click here.
For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, please click here.
Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards.
Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.
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For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express, please click here.
For rates and fees of Discover it® Cash Back, please click here.
Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Trip Delay Insurance, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance, and Cell Phone Protection Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. Global Assist Hotline Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers. If approved and coordinated by Premium Global Assist Hotline, emergency medical transportation assistance may be provided at no cost. In any other circumstance, Card Members may be responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers. Extended Warranty, Purchase Protection, and Baggage Insurance Plan Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss & Damage Insurance Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
***Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Refer to your Guide to Benefits for more details. Travel Accident Insurance is not guaranteed, it depends on the level of benefits you get at application.
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
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