Personal Finance Credit Cards
Written by Jasmin Baron and Tessa Campbell; edited by Katherine Fan
- Best for Everyday Spending
- Best for Flat-Rate Cash Rewards
- Best for Rotating Cash Back Categories Label
- Best for Families
- Best for Groceries, Dining, and Entertainment
- Best for Self-Care and Pet Card
- FAQs
- Why You Should Trust Us
Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us and terms apply to offers listed (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate credit cards to write unbiased product reviews.
The information for the following product(s) has been collected independently by Business Insider: Wells Fargo Attune℠ Card, Chase Freedom Flex®, U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card. The details for these products have not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.
Introduction to Cash Back Credit Cards
Cash-back credit cards are among some of the most popular card types, returning anywhere from 1% to 10% cash back on all kinds of purchases — and often without an annual fee. For folks who are just getting into credit card rewards, or who want to keep things simple, cash-back credit cards are a good choice since they don't require much work to use.
Best Cash Back Credit Cards of July 2024
- Best cash back credit card for everyday spending: Chase Freedom Unlimited®
- Best cash back credit card for flat-rate cash rewards: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
- Best cash back credit card for rotating cash back categories: Discover it® Cash Back
- Best cash back card for families: Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Best cash back credit card for groceries, dining, and entertainment: Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
- Best cash back credit card for self-care and pet care: Wells Fargo Attune℠ Card
Best Cash Back Credit Card Comparison
Best Cash-Back Credit Card for Everyday Spending
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
On Chase's website
Insider’s Rating
Insider's Ratings are decided by our editorial team. The rating system considers various factors and evaluates cards against others of the same type so you can pick a card that is a good fit for your goals.
4.35/5
Perks
Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases
Annual Fee
$0
Intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months
Regular APR
20.49% - 29.24% Variable
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
Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Pros
- Solid flat cash-back rate
- You can combine cash-back rewards with Ultimate Rewards points if you have an eligible card
- No annual fee
Cons
- Some other cards offer a higher rate of cash back on certain types of purchases
Insider’s Take
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a great choice for credit card beginners and experts alike. With no annual fee and a high earnings rate, it's worth considering as an everyday card — and it's even better when you pair it with an annual-fee Chase card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®.
Chase Freedom Unlimited review External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."
Product Details
- 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 Travel℠, 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 travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 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 20.49% - 29.24%.
- 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, alerts, and more.
- Member FDIC
Best for flat-rate cash rewards
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
On Wells Fargo's website
Insider’s Rating
Insider's Ratings are decided by our editorial team. The rating system considers various factors and evaluates cards against others of the same type so you can pick a card that is a good fit for your goals.
4.3/5
Perks
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
Annual Fee
$0
Intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers for 15 months from account opening
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable
Intro Offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months from account opening
Earn $200 cash rewards bonus
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Pros
- 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 an intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
Cons
- If you've opened a Wells Fargo card in the past six months, you may not qualify for an additional Wells Fargo credit card
- Foreign transaction fees
Insider’s Take
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is definitely worth considering if you want to earn a strong rate of cash rewards on purchases without rotating categories or earning caps and with no annual fee. It's got a solid welcome bonus and intro APR offer, which puts it high on our list of the best zero-interest credit cards.
Wells Fargo Active Cash Card review External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."
Product Details
- Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
- Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 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. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; 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.
- Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
- Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Rotating Cash Back Categories
Discover it® Cash Back
On Discover's website
Insider’s Rating
Insider's Ratings are decided by our editorial team. The rating system considers various factors and evaluates cards against others of the same type so you can pick a card that is a good fit for your goals.
3.8/5
Perks
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically.
Annual Fee
$0
Intro APR
0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
Regular APR
18.24% - 28.24% Variable
Intro Offer
Unlimited Cashback Match™ – Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
Earn Unlimited Cashback Match™
Recommended Credit
Recommended credit score. Note that credit card lenders may use many different variations of credit score models when considering your application.
Good to Excellent
Pros
- From July 1 to September 30, 2024, you can earn 5% cash back atWalmart and grocery stores 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
Cons
- 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
Insider’s Take
The Discover it® Cash Back is one of the best credit cards that offers 5% back on popular rotating categories up to a spending limit. Your rewards are matched by Discover after the first 12 months, and the card has no annual fee.
Discover it Cash Back review External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."
Product Details
- Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – 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 you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases—automatically.
- Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
- 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 a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 18.24% to 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
- No annual fee.
- Terms and conditions apply.
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Families
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Insider’s Rating
Insider's Ratings are decided by our editorial team. The rating system considers various factors and evaluates cards against others of the same type so you can pick a card that is a good fit for your goals.
3.5/5
Perks
Earn 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%). Earn 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions. Earn 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations. Earn 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis, rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more). Earn 1% Cash Back on other purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
Annual Fee
$0 intro for the first year, then $95
Intro APR
0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers from the date of account opening
Regular APR
19.24% - 29.99% Variable
Intro Offer
$250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new card within the first six months from account opening
Earn a $250 statement credit
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Pros
- 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
Cons
- 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
Insider’s Take
The Amex Blue Cash Preferred is one of the best cash-back cards, particularly for consumers who spend a lot of money at U.S. supermarkets, use streaming services, or have lots of commuting and gas expenses. The annual fee is worth it if your typical spending lines up with the card's bonus categories.
Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card review External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."
Product Details
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible 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% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%.
- 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.
- 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
- 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
- Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
- $84 Disney Bundle Credit: With your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred Card, spend $9.99 or more each month on an auto-renewing Disney Bundle subscription, to receive a monthly statement credit of $7. Valid only at Disney Plus.com, Hulu.com or Plus.espn.com in the U.S.
- Terms Apply.
Best Cash-Back Credit Card for Dining, Groceries, and Entertainment With No Annual Fee
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
On Capital One's website
Insider’s Rating
Insider's Ratings are decided by our editorial team. The rating system considers various factors and evaluates cards against others of the same type so you can pick a card that is a good fit for your goals.
4.15/5
Perks
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 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply). Earn 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.
Annual Fee
$0
Intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months (3% fee for the first 15 months, then 4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you at any other time)
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% Variable
Intro Offer
$200 cash back after you spend $500 on purchases within three months from account opening
Earn $200 cash back
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Pros
- No annual fee
- Bonus cash back on dining, entertainment, and grocery store purchases
- Long intro APR period for purchases and balance transfers
Cons
- Other cards earn more cash back in certain bonus categories
- Not the highest sign-up bonus among cash-back cards
Insider’s Take
The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers a good welcome bonus and excellent return rates that can earn you cash back on common expenses like dining, groceries (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target), streaming, and entertainment — plus there's no annual fee to worry about.
SavorOne Cash Rewards Card review External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."
Product Details
- 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; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
- No foreign transaction fee
- No annual fee
Best for cash back on gyms, spas, pet care, and environmentally friendly purchases
Wells Fargo Attune℠ Card
Insider’s Rating
Business Insider's Ratings are decided by our editorial team. The rating system considers various factors and evaluates cards against others of the same type so you can pick a card that is a good fit for your goals.
4.4/5
Perks
Earn unlimited 4% cash rewards on select self-care, planet-friendly, and sports, recreation, and entertainment purchases. Earn 1% cash rewards on other purchases.
Annual Fee
$0
Intro APR
0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable
Intro Offer
$100 cash rewards bonus when you spend $500 in purchases in the first three months from account opening
Earn a $100 cash rewards bonus
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Pros
- High cashback rate on common expenses including gyms, spas, pet care, concert tickets, and public transit
- No annual fee
- Cellphone protection
Cons
- Limited reward redemption beyond cash back
Attune℠ Card review External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."
Best Cash Back Credit Card Reviews
Cash back credit cards make it easy to rack up rewards by offering simple redemption opportunities: Either convert your cards into a statement credit toward your card's outstanding balance, or use them for travel redemptions or other exciting prizes and rewards. The best cash back credit cards offer bonus categories, introductory 0% APR for balance transfers and new purchases, or additional value on everyday transactions.
These are the top options available in 2024, according to Business Insider's team of personal finance experts.
Best for Everyday Spending: Chase Freedom Unlimited®
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 Travel℠, 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 20.49% - 29.24% 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: additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
Read our Chase Freedom Unlimited® review
Best Cash-Back Credit Card for Everyday Spending
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
On Chase's website
Insider’s Rating
Insider's Ratings are decided by our editorial team. The rating system considers various factors and evaluates cards against others of the same type so you can pick a card that is a good fit for your goals.
4.35/5
Perks
Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases
Annual Fee
$0
Intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months
Regular APR
20.49% - 29.24% Variable
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
Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy
Pros
- Solid flat cash-back rate
- You can combine cash-back rewards with Ultimate Rewards points if you have an eligible card
- No annual fee
Cons
- Some other cards offer a higher rate of cash back on certain types of purchases
Insider’s Take
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a great choice for credit card beginners and experts alike. With no annual fee and a high earnings rate, it's worth considering as an everyday card — and it's even better when you pair it with an annual-fee Chase card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®.
Chase Freedom Unlimited review External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."
Product Details
- 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 Travel℠, 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 travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 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 20.49% - 29.24%.
- 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, alerts, and more.
- Member FDIC
Best for Flat-Rate Cash Back: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
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. Our guide to earning and redeeming Wells Fargo Rewards details all the ways to use your cash rewards from this card.
It offers a substantial welcome bonus for a no-annual-fee card: $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 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 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR). That's 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.
Read our Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card review
Best for flat-rate cash rewards
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
On Wells Fargo's website
Insider’s Rating
Insider's Ratings are decided by our editorial team. The rating system considers various factors and evaluates cards against others of the same type so you can pick a card that is a good fit for your goals.
4.3/5
Perks
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
Annual Fee
$0
Intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers for 15 months from account opening
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable
Intro Offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months from account opening
Earn $200 cash rewards bonus
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Pros
- 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 an intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
Cons
- If you've opened a Wells Fargo card in the past six months, you may not qualify for an additional Wells Fargo credit card
- Foreign transaction fees
Insider’s Take
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is definitely worth considering if you want to earn a strong rate of cash rewards on purchases without rotating categories or earning caps and with no annual fee. It's got a solid welcome bonus and intro APR offer, which puts it high on our list of the best zero-interest credit cards.
Wells Fargo Active Cash Card review External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."
Product Details
- Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
- Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 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. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; 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.
- Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
- Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
Best for Rotating Bonus Categories: Discover it® Cash Back
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 July 1 to September 30, 2024, earn 5% cash back atWalmart and grocery stores on up to $1,500 in purchases after enrollment, then 1%).
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.
Read our Discover it® Cash Back review
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Rotating Cash Back Categories
Discover it® Cash Back
On Discover's website
Insider’s Rating
Insider's Ratings are decided by our editorial team. The rating system considers various factors and evaluates cards against others of the same type so you can pick a card that is a good fit for your goals.
3.8/5
Perks
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically.
Annual Fee
$0
Intro APR
0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
Regular APR
18.24% - 28.24% Variable
Intro Offer
Unlimited Cashback Match™ – Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
Earn Unlimited Cashback Match™
Recommended Credit
Recommended credit score. Note that credit card lenders may use many different variations of credit score models when considering your application.
Good to Excellent
Pros
- From July 1 to September 30, 2024, you can earn 5% cash back atWalmart and grocery stores 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
Cons
- 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
Insider’s Take
The Discover it® Cash Back is one of the best credit cards that offers 5% back on popular rotating categories up to a spending limit. Your rewards are matched by Discover after the first 12 months, and the card has no annual fee.
Discover it Cash Back review External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."
Product Details
- Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – 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 you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases—automatically.
- Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
- 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 a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 18.24% to 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
- No annual fee.
- Terms and conditions apply.
Best 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 Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is an excellent option. Itoffers a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers from the date of account opening, before switching to a 19.24% - 29.99% Variable APR.
Currently, the card offers a welcome bonus of a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible 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 Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express 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 or at Amazon.com checkout). 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.
Read our Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express review
Best Cash Back Credit Card for Families
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
On American Express's website
Insider’s Rating
Insider's Ratings are decided by our editorial team. The rating system considers various factors and evaluates cards against others of the same type so you can pick a card that is a good fit for your goals.
3.5/5
Perks
Earn 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%). Earn 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions. Earn 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations. Earn 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis, rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more). Earn 1% Cash Back on other purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
Annual Fee
$0 intro for the first year, then $95
Intro APR
0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers from the date of account opening
Regular APR
19.24% - 29.99% Variable
Intro Offer
$250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new card within the first six months from account opening
Earn a $250 statement credit
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Pros
- 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
Cons
- 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
Insider’s Take
The Amex Blue Cash Preferred is one of the best cash-back cards, particularly for consumers who spend a lot of money at U.S. supermarkets, use streaming services, or have lots of commuting and gas expenses. The annual fee is worth it if your typical spending lines up with the card's bonus categories.
Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card review External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."
Product Details
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible 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% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%.
- 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.
- 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
- 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
- Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
- $84 Disney Bundle Credit: With your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred Card, spend $9.99 or more each month on an auto-renewing Disney Bundle subscription, to receive a monthly statement credit of $7. Valid only at Disney Plus.com, Hulu.com or Plus.espn.com in the U.S.
- Terms Apply.
Best for Groceries, Dining, and Entertainment: 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 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 the Capital One Travel portal.
The welcome bonus is generous, too: $200 cash back after you spend $500 on purchases within three 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 for the first 15 months, then 4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you at any other time) (followed by a 19.99% - 29.99% Variable APR) can make it easier to spread out your payments (rates and fees).
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 to convert to the regular version after graduation.
Read our Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card review
Best Cash-Back Credit Card for Dining, Groceries, and Entertainment With No Annual Fee
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
On Capital One's website
Insider’s Rating
Insider's Ratings are decided by our editorial team. The rating system considers various factors and evaluates cards against others of the same type so you can pick a card that is a good fit for your goals.
4.15/5
Perks
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 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply). Earn 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.
Annual Fee
$0
Intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months (3% fee for the first 15 months, then 4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you at any other time)
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% Variable
Intro Offer
$200 cash back after you spend $500 on purchases within three months from account opening
Earn $200 cash back
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Pros
- No annual fee
- Bonus cash back on dining, entertainment, and grocery store purchases
- Long intro APR period for purchases and balance transfers
Cons
- Other cards earn more cash back in certain bonus categories
- Not the highest sign-up bonus among cash-back cards
Insider’s Take
The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers a good welcome bonus and excellent return rates that can earn you cash back on common expenses like dining, groceries (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target), streaming, and entertainment — plus there's no annual fee to worry about.
SavorOne Cash Rewards Card review External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."
Product Details
- 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; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
- No foreign transaction fee
- No annual fee
Best for Gyms, Spas, and Pet Care: Wells Fargo Attune℠ Card
The brand-new Wells Fargo Attune℠ Card is perfect for people who prioritize fitness, self-care, pet care, live shows and other ticketed experiences, and environmentally friendly choices. This no-annual-fee card earns 4% cash back on select purchases in self-care, planet-friendly, and entertainment categories such as gyms and fitness expenses, spas, pet care and grooming, concert tickets, public transit, some thrift stores, EV charging stations, and similar purchases.
New cardholders can also take advantage of two introductory offers: $100 cash rewards bonus when you spend $500 in purchases in the first three months from account opening, and 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases (then 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR).
Read more in our Wells Fargo Attune card review.
Best for cash back on gyms, spas, pet care, and environmentally friendly purchases
Wells Fargo Attune℠ Card
Insider’s Rating
Business Insider's Ratings are decided by our editorial team. The rating system considers various factors and evaluates cards against others of the same type so you can pick a card that is a good fit for your goals.
4.4/5
Perks
Earn unlimited 4% cash rewards on select self-care, planet-friendly, and sports, recreation, and entertainment purchases. Earn 1% cash rewards on other purchases.
Annual Fee
$0
Intro APR
0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable
Intro Offer
$100 cash rewards bonus when you spend $500 in purchases in the first three months from account opening
Earn a $100 cash rewards bonus
Recommended Credit
Good to Excellent
Pros
- High cashback rate on common expenses including gyms, spas, pet care, concert tickets, and public transit
- No annual fee
- Cellphone protection
Cons
- Limited reward redemption beyond cash back
Attune℠ Card review External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."
What You Should Know 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 such as dining, streaming services, entertainment, and 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 points-earning picks for the best rewards credit cardsearn 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
To use a cash back credit card, you'll want to remember that it won't be worth it if you're paying interest or late fees. It's important to pay your balance in full each month, make payments on time, and only spend what you can afford.
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
To choose the best cash back credit card 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
Cash Back Credit Card Best Practices
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 Your 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.
Track and Maximize Bonus Categories
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 use your cash-back 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.
Redeem Your Cash Back Rewards
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 "Partner" Card For Additional Value
As mentioned above, in some cases, you can transfer cash back to a points-earning card on which your rewards are worth more. This strategy isn't required to make the most of your cash back card, but it can help take rewards to the next level.
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 rewards earned on the Freedom Flex to the Sapphire Preferred, and unlock more redemption options.
Cash Back Credit Card Frequently Asked Questions
How does earning cash back work?
Cash-back credit cards work by giving you a percentage of every dollar you spend — usually at least 1% — as cash back in your card account. Some cash-back cards earn a higher percentage in bonus categories, such as groceries, dining, or gas. You can transfer the cash back you earn from these cards to a bank account, use it to pay down your credit card statement, or redeem it for gifts and merchandise.
Do cash back cards actually give you cash?
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. Some cards do let you take your cash as a deposit to your account or as a check.
What credit card offers the most cash back?
No single credit card offers the most cash back in every category, but there are a few that stand out for high rewards. For example, the Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card earns 6% back on the first $6,000 you spend each calendar year at US supermarkets (then 1% back), and 6% back on select U.S. streaming services. And the most rewarding choice for dining out is the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card with 3% back.
Is a cash back card better than a travel or rewards card?
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.
How can you make the most of a cash back credit card?
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. Some cash back cards let you transfer rewards to travel cards from the same bank, then transfer points to airline and hotel partners they're worth the most.
Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose the Best Cash Back Credit Cards
We looked at the dozens of cash back credit cards currently available to new applicants and narrowed down our list 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?
- Rewards 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 Business Insider.
Editor
Jasmin Baron was an editor at Insider, responsible for credit card coverage on Business Insider. 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.
Investing and Retirement Reporter
Tessa Campbell is an investing and retirement reporter on Business Insider’s personal finance desk. Over two years of personal finance reporting, Tessa has built expertise on a range of financial topics, from the best credit cards to the best retirement savings accounts.ExperienceTessa currently reports on all things investing — deep-diving into complex financial topics, shedding light on lesser-known investment avenues, and uncovering ways readers can work the system to their advantage.As a personal finance expert in her 20s, Tessa is acutely aware of the impacts time and uncertainty have on your investment decisions. While she curates Business Insider’s guide on the best investment apps, she believes that your financial portfolio does not have to be perfect, it just has to exist. A small investment is better than nothing, and the mistakes you make along the way are a necessary part of the learning process.Expertise:Tessa’s expertise includes:
- Credit cards
- Investing apps
- Retirement savings
- Cryptocurrency
- The stock market
- Retail investing
Education:Tessa graduated from Susquehanna University with a creative writing degree and a psychology minor.When she’s not digging into a financial topic, you’ll find Tessa waist-deep in her second cup of coffee. She currently drinks Kitty Town coffee, which blends her love of coffee with her love for her two cats: Keekee and Dumpling. It was a targeted advertisem*nt, and it worked.
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Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are 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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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 circ*mstance, 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 benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, please click here.
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