Best Cash Back Credit Cards for September 2024

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Updated: September 3, 2024

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The best cash-back cards offer the opportunity to earn money back on your purchases and a range of benefits tailored to your spending patterns. That's why the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card — with its unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases and no annual fee — is our top choice for cash back cards.

However, a different card might be the best choice if your expenses are concentrated in specific areas — like the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card for making the most of dining and entertainment spending. Whether you're looking to maximize rewards across all purchases or in specific categories, our picks for the top cash back cards will help you earn more with every swipe.

Why You Can Trust Our Picks

Top 5 Cash Back Credit Cards

Whether you seek flat-rate rewards or category-specific cash back, these cards stand out for their value. We assessed each card based on the cash back you earn on purchases as well as for other factors, such as annual fees and introductory APRs.

Flat-rate no-annual-fee cash back cards score particularly well in our overall assessment, but we've customized the list to include multiple cash back card categories to better help you find the card for you.

Credit CardMoneyGeek RatingRewards SummaryWelcome BonusAnnual FeeRecommended Credit
Read review
5/ of 5
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Earn $200 Cash Back
$0670-850 (Good to Excellent)
Read review
4.6/ of 5
Earn 1% to 8% cash back
Earn $200 Cash Back
$0670-850 (Good to Excellent)
on partners secure website
Read review
4.2/ of 5
Earn 1% – 6% cash back
Earn $250
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95*670–850 (Good to Excellent)
on partners secure website
Read review
4.0/ of 5
Earn 1%–3% cash back
Earn $200 online cash rewards
$0670–850 (Good to Excellent)
Read review
3.8/ of 5
Earn 1–4% cash back
No current offer
$0740-850 (Excellent)

Best Cash Back Credit Cards by Category

Cash back credit cards come in various types, each with unique perks to match your spending. Whether you prefer a simple flat-rate return on all purchases or the thrill of maximizing cash back via 5% bonus categories, there's a card tailored to your wallet.

Category Name
Description

Flat-rate cards provide a constant cash back rate on all purchases, regardless of spending category. Typical flat cash back rates are between 1% and 2%.

Bonus category cards pay elevated rates for spending in specific categories or with specific businesses—for example, 3% cash back on groceries. Bonus categories typically range from 2% to 4%.

5% cash back cards offer elevated cash back, but there’s usually a catch — the 5% category may rotate, be capped to a specific spend or require you to log in and activate the deal.

These cards either require membership to get a card or to take full advantage of their perks.

Best Flat-Rate Cash Back Cards

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Credit Card logo for Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
MoneyGeek Rating
5/ of 5

Rewards
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Welcome Offer
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500...
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit
670-850 (Good to Excellent)
  • The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is a straightforward and valuable choice for anyone seeking hassle-free rewards. With no annual fee and a generous welcome bonus, it offers consistent cash rewards on all purchases. The initial zero-interest period is an excellent advantage for purchases and balance transfers. While it might lack specialized bonus categories, the card makes up for this with perks like exclusive hotel benefits and cell phone protection. It's a solid, all-around performer in the credit card landscape.

  • PROS
    • No annual fee
    • Welcome bonus
    • Unlimited cash rewards on all purchases
    • 0% intro APR offer
    • Rewards don't expire with an active account
    CONS
    • Potentially high APR
    • No bonus reward categories
    • Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months.
    • Unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases.
    • Enjoy a 0% intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers for 15 months from account opening. After that, a variable APR of 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% applies.
    • Balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and a fee of 3%. After that, a balance transfer fee of up to 5% (minimum $5) applies.
    • No annual fee
    • No categories to track and cash rewards do not expire as long as your account remains open.
    • Enjoy a premium collection of benefits at prestigious hotel properties with Visa Signature Concierge.
    • Earn up to $600 in 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).


    Moneygeek.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
Credit Card logo for Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
MoneyGeek Rating
4.5/ of 5

On Partner's Website


Rewards
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental c...
Welcome Offer
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $5...
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% variable
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit
670-850 (Good to Excellent)
  • Ideal for those who prefer simplicity, the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card offers a flat 1.5% cash back rate on all purchases and a straightforward welcome bonus. However, it requires excellent credit.

  • PROS
    • Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
    • Low required spend for welcome bonus
    • 0% intro APR period on purchases and balance transfers
    • No annual fee
    CONS
    • Requires excellent credit
    • Limited bonus categories
    • Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within three months of opening an account.
    • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day, with a $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.
    • Enjoy up to six months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through November 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 are 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% to 29.99% variable APR after that; 3% fee on the amounts transferred within the first 15 months, then 4% afterward.


    Moneygeek.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Best Cash Back Cards for Bonus Categories

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Credit Card logo for Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
MoneyGeek Rating
4.6/ of 5

On Partner's Website


Rewards
8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchase...
Welcome Offer
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $5...
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% variable
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit
670-850 (Good to Excellent)
  • Whether you prefer to eat out or enjoy home-cooked meals, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Card grants you savings. It provides unlimited 3% cash back on restaurants, grocery stores, streaming and entertainment for no annual fee. However, superstores like Walmart are excluded from the bonus rewards.

  • PROS
    • Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, streaming services and at grocery stores
    • Earn 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars through Capital One Travel
    • Receive a $200 welcome offer
    • Offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
    CONS
    • Use of Capital One Travel required to get high cash back rate
    • Excludes cash back at superstores like Walmart and Target
    • Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after spending $1,000 on purchases within the first three months of opening your account.
    • Unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), and 1% on all other purchases.
    • Enjoy 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus receive complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through November 14, 2024.
    • 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 the best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply.
    • Enjoy earning cash rewards without rotating categories or sign-ups. Your cash back won't expire for the life of the account, and there's no limit to how much you can earn.
    • Benefit from a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; after that, a variable APR of 19.99%–29.99% applies. A 3% fee applies to amounts transferred within the first 15 months.
    • No foreign transaction fees.
    • No annual fee.


    Moneygeek.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card From American Express
Credit Card logo for Blue Cash Preferred® Card From American Express
MoneyGeek Rating
4.2/ of 5

On Partner's Website


Rewards
Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,0...
Welcome Offer
Earn $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 i...
Regular APR
19.24–29.99% variable
Annual Fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95*
Recommended Credit
670–850 (Good to Excellent)
  • The Blue Cash Preferred® is a family-friendly card that rewards generously on spending at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. streaming, U.S. gas stations and transit expenses. It is a great option if you're looking for higher cash back in these categories. However, you'll need to spend more in these categories to make it worth the annual fee of $95 after the first year. See rates and fees.

  • PROS
    • High cash back on supermarkets and streaming
    • Unlimited cash back on gas and transit
    • Intro APR for purchases and transfers
    CONS
    • Annual fee after first year
    • Spending caps and exclusions on supermarket purchases
    • Earn a $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 on eligible purchases within the first six months.
    • Enjoy a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 after that.
    • Benefit from 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from account opening. After that, a variable APR of 19.24% to 29.99% applies.
    • Earn 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.
    • Earn 3% cash back on transit, including taxis/rideshares, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more.
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases.
    • Cash back is provided as Reward Dollars, redeemable as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
    • Earn a $84 Disney Bundle Credit: Spend $9.99 or more each month on an auto-renewing Disney Bundle subscription with your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred Card to receive a $7 monthly statement credit. Valid only at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com or Plus.espn.com in the U.S.
    • Terms Apply.
    • See rates and fees.


    Moneygeek.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

MORE: Go deeper on the best cash back cards by spending category:

Back to Best Cash Back Cards by Category

Best 5% Cash Back Cards

Chase Freedom Flex® Card
Credit Card logo for Chase Freedom Flex® Card
MoneyGeek Rating
3.7/ of 5

Rewards
Earn 5% cash back on rotating bonus categories tha...
Welcome Offer
Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchase...
Regular APR
20.49–29.24% variable
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit
670–850 (good to excellent)
  • The Chase Freedom Flex® card offers remarkable value, especially for consumers who can maximize the diverse cash back categories. Chase welcomes new cardholders with a bonus, and its 0% introductory APR offers a financial cushion for the initial months. Accumulated rewards are yours to keep indefinitely. While it's a boon for those with good credit and an affinity for diving into rotating reward categories, it's less rewarding for generic purchases. Overall, this card is a solid pick for strategic spenders.

    All information about the Chase Freedom Flex has been collected independently by Moneygeek.com and has not been reviewed by the issuer.

  • PROS
    • No annual fee
    • Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first three months from account opening
    • Potentially high cash back for certain categories
    • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers
    • No minimum amount to redeem non-expiring rewards
    CONS
    • Requires good to excellent credit
    • Rotating categories can be complicated
    • Low rewards on non-bonus purchases
    • Earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
    • 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate, with new categories each quarter.
    • Earn 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Travel℠, which 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 services, plus unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
    • No minimum for cash back redemption; 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.
    • Benefit from 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers from account opening, then a variable APR of 20.49% to 29.24%.
    • No annual fee.
    • Monitor your credit health with Chase Credit Journey, offering free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
    • Member FDIC.


    Moneygeek.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Discover it® Cash Back Card
Credit Card logo for Discover it® Cash Back Card
MoneyGeek Rating
3.7/ of 5

Rewards
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at differe...
Welcome Offer
Matches cash back earned at the end of the first 1...
Regular APR
18.24%–28.24% variable
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit
670–850 (good to excellent)
  • If you're a strategic spender who doesn't mind tracking category bonuses to get high rewards, the Discover it® Cash Back Card could work for you. It features 5% cash back on rotating categories and a generous 0% intro APR period.

  • PROS
    • Earn 5% cash back on rotating categories
    • Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
    • Cash back match in the first year
    CONS
    • Bonus categories have a quarterly cap and require activation
    • Rotating bonus categories
    • Low regular cash back rate
    • $0 annual fee.
    • Discover automatically matches all cash back earned in the first year.
    • No minimum spending is required, and there's no cap on rewards for the cash back match.
    • Earn 5% cash back on rotating categories like groceries and gas each quarter upon activation.
    • All other purchases earn an unlimited 1% cash back.
    • Discover assists in minimizing online exposure of your personal data on certain sites, activated via the mobile app.
    • Every dollar in cash back you earn is a dollar you can use.
    • Enjoy a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.24%–28.24% after that.
    • Standard APR ranges from 18.24%–28.24% (variable).


    Moneygeek.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Best Membership-Required Cash Back Cards

Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
Credit Card logo for Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
MoneyGeek Rating
3.8/ of 5

Rewards
4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purch...
Welcome Offer
This card doesn't offer cash back, miles, or point...
Regular APR
20.49% variable
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit
740-850 (Excellent)
  • Citi's Costco Anywhere Visa Card offers high cash back rates on gas, travel and dining, making it ideal for Costco members who often dine out and go out of town. However, its reward redemption is tied to Costco.

  • PROS
    • High cash back on gas, travel and dining
    • 2% cash back on Costco purchases
    • No annual fee
    CONS
    • Limited reward redemption options
    • Requires Costco membership
    • No 0% intro APR period
    • Discover a top-tier cash back rewards card from Citi, exclusively for Costco members.
    • Earn 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 annually, then 1% after that.
    • 3% cash back on dining and eligible travel expenses.
    • Enjoy 2% cash back on all purchases from Costco and Costco.com.
    • Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
    • Enjoy no annual fee with your paid Costco membership and benefit from no foreign transaction fees.
    • Obtain an annual reward certificate redeemable for cash or merchandise at U.S. Costco warehouses, including Puerto Rico.


    Moneygeek.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card
Credit Card logo for Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card
MoneyGeek Rating
3.3/ of 5

Rewards
Earn unlimited 3% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh...
Welcome Offer
Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly loaded into ...
Regular APR
19.49%–27.49% variable
Annual Fee
$0
Recommended Credit
670-850 (Good to Excellent)
  • We love the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card because of its welcome bonus, high cash back rate on Amazon purchases and added perks. For starters, all cardholders get a $100 Amazon Gift Card soon after their applications’ approval. Not having to pay an annual fee is a definite advantage.

    As a Prime member, you earn 5% cash back when you use this card to make purchases through Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market. You get 2% back at gas stations, drugstores and restaurants, and 1% on all other purchases.

    Using this card outside of the country makes sense as it comes with no foreign transaction fees. Additional benefits include purchase protection, extended warranty protection, baggage delay insurance, travel accident insurance and lost luggage reimbursement.

  • PROS
    • New cardholder welcome bonus
    • High unlimited cash back of 5% cash back at Amazon and Whole Foods Market
    • 2% cash back at restaurants, gas stations and drugstores
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases
    • No annual credit card fee
    • No foreign transaction fee
    • Hassle-free rewards redemption on Amazon.com
    CONS
    • Need an eligible Amazon Prime account membership to apply
    • High APR
    • $100 Amazon gift card as a welcome bonus
    • High cash back for purchases at Amazon.com
    • Rewards points can be easily redeemed for purchases at Amazon.com, and for cash back, gift cards and travel on Chase
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Travel accident insurance
    • Lost luggage reimbursement
    • Baggage delay insurance
    • Travel and emergency assistance
    • Zero fraud liability
    • Auto rental collision damage waiver
    • Roadside dispatch
    • Extended warranty protection
    • Purchase protection


    Moneygeek.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

More About MoneyGeek’s Top Cash Back Cards

MoneyGeek's picks for the top cash back cards offer a blend of high rewards rates, rewards styles, no or low annual fees and valuable welcome bonuses. For instance, the Wells Fargo Active Cash provides unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases, while the Blue Cash Preferred offers 6% cash back on U.S. supermarkets and streaming services. We also assessed cards for introductory 0% APR periods, customer satisfaction with the issuer and penalties and fees.

Wells Fargo Active Cash

The Wells Fargo Active Cash card is a straightforward choice for those seeking consistent cash back rewards and our winner for the overall best cash back card. With no annual fee and a $200 welcome bonus after spending $500 in the first three months, it offers great value. You earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases, making it easy to accumulate rewards without tracking categories. Additionally, cardholders enjoy a 0% intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers for 15 months.

Credit Card logo for Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
MoneyGeek Rating
5/ of 5
Rates & Fees

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards

The Capital One SavorOne Cash card is an excellent option for those who enjoy dining out or streaming entertainment. It offers unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, streaming services and grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target). You can earn 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. The card comes with a $200 welcome offer after spending $1,000 in the first three months and has no annual fee. Additionally, it offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.

Credit Card logo for Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
MoneyGeek Rating
4.6/ of 5

Blue Cash Preferred From Amex

The Blue Cash Preferred card from American Express is a top choice for families. It offers 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 annually), 6% on select U.S. streaming services, 3% at U.S. gas stations and 3% on transit. Additionally, it has a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers. Note the $95 annual fee after the first year.

Credit Card logo for Blue Cash Preferred® Card From American Express
MoneyGeek Rating
4.2/ of 5
Rates & Fees

Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards

The Bank of America Customized Cash card offers flexibility with its customizable cash back categories. Earn 3% cash back in a category of your choice, like gas or online shopping, and 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs. There's no annual fee, and new cardholders can earn a $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days. Preferred Rewards members can boost their cash back by 25%–75%.

Credit Card logo for Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
MoneyGeek Rating
4.0/ of 5
Rates & Fees

Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

The Costco Anywhere card is a great option for Costco members who frequently spend on gas, travel and dining. It offers 4% cash back on gas purchases up to $7,000 annually, 3% on restaurants and eligible travel, and 2% on all Costco purchases. With no annual fee, it's a cost-effective choice. However, rewards redemption is limited to Costco.

Credit Card logo for Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
MoneyGeek Rating
3.8/ of 5
Rates & Fees

Methodology: How We Choose the Best Cash Back Cards

Comparing cash back credit cards apples-to-apples can be tricky due to the variety of rewards schemes available. One card might offer 2% cash back on all purchases, whereas another offers 5% on groceries but only 1% on everything else.

To cut through the noise, we estimated the effective rewards rate for each card and made it the core of our cash back card scoring system. This rate estimates the cash back you can earn from a card based on its rewards structure and the spending profile of the median American household. By calculating this rate, we were able to compare cards more objectively.

MoneyGeek then collected and reviewed 32 data points for each of the top 60 cash back credit cards. We scored each card based on several factors, with the following weights applied:

  • Effective Rewards Rate (50%): Measures the estimated cash back from the card based on its rewards structure and the spending profile of the median American household.
  • Annual Fee (10%): Evaluates the cost of the card. The highest rating goes to cards with no annual fees.
  • Offer ROI (10%): Measures the return on investment from the card's introductory offer.
  • Balance Transfer Offer (5%): Evaluates the attractiveness of the balance transfer offer.
  • Introductory Purchase APR (5%): Measures the appeal of the introductory APR on purchases.
  • Recommended Credit (5%): Assesses the accessibility of the card based on recommended credit scores. A higher rating was given if the card is available to almost all credit scores.
  • Issuer Satisfaction (5%): Measures customer satisfaction with the card issuer based on J.D. Power studies.
  • Penalties (5%): Evaluates the penalty rates and fees, giving the highest rating to cards with none.
  • Regular APR (5%): Measures the regular APR of the card, with higher ratings for lower APRs.
  • Foreign Transaction Fees (5%): A high rating indicates no foreign transaction fees.

We follow this methodology to ensure that our ratings are objective, comprehensive and trustworthy. In the end, you should match a card with your spending habits to determine which will provide the most value for you.

What Is a Cash Back Card?

A cash back card is a type of credit card that rewards you with a percentage of your purchases back in cash. Different cards offer varying reward schemes. For example, the SavorOne Cash card offers 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, streaming services and grocery stores, whereas the Wells Fargo Active Cash provides a flat 2% cash back rate on all purchases.

Cash back cards are popular for their straightforward rewards. You earn cash back on your purchases, which can be easily redeemed as statement credits, direct deposits or even gift cards. Many cash back cards (like the Wells Fargo Active Cash) come with no annual fee and offer additional perks like 0% intro APR periods and welcome bonuses.

mglogo icon
PAY OFF YOUR CARD EACH MONTH

With credit card interest rates currently between 19% and 29%, interest charges on a month of spending can easily wipe out the 1% to 5% of cash back rewards you’ve earned. Missing a payment is even worse — some cards charge late fees and levy a penalty APR if you miss a payment.

Are Cash Back Cards Better Than Other Card Types?

Cash back cards come with trade-offs for their rewarding simplicity. They often have shorter introductory 0% APR periods than the best balance transfer cards, which are designed to help you work down existing balances. And although cash back cards are simpler, points cards can sometimes be worth more when you redeem points for travel or transfer to loyalty programs.

Many people ask whether cash back or points are better when it comes to rewards. The short answer is that you should pick the rewards system based on how it makes you feel and how much work you want to put into managing your credit cards. Cash back is simpler to manage, but it lacks the thrill of the deal that a points redemption can provide.

Types of Cash Back Credit Cards

There are three main types of cash back credit cards to consider: flat-rate, bonus category and rotating category cards. Each type has its own set of benefits and potential drawbacks.

    flatRate icon

    Flat-Rate Cash Back Cards

    Flat-rate cash back cards offer a consistent cash back percentage on all purchases. These cards are straightforward and easy to use, making them ideal for those who prefer simplicity. For example, the Wells Fargo Active Cash offers unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases.

    The main advantage is that you don't have to worry about tracking spending categories. However, they might not offer the highest rewards for specific spending categories.

    rewards icon

    Bonus Category Cash Back Cards

    Bonus category cards provide higher cash back rates on specific categories like groceries, dining or gas. For instance, the SavorOne Cash offers 3% cash back on dining, entertainment and grocery stores.

    These cards can be very rewarding if your spending aligns with the bonus categories. However, they often come with spending caps and may exclude certain stores — Walmart and Target, for instance, are often excluded for grocery purchases.

    It's not a fully separate category, but membership cards require membership to either get the card or receive the full benefits. Examples include the Costco Anywhere card and cards issued by credit unions.

    refound icon

    Rotating Category Cash Back Cards

    Rotating category cards offer high cash back rates on categories that change every quarter. The Freedom Flex is a good example, offering 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories that rotate every three months.

    These cards can be lucrative if you adapt your spending to maximize your cash back rewards. However, they require more effort to track and activate the categories each quarter.

Common Cash Back Bonus Categories

Cash back credit cards often feature bonus categories that allow cardholders to earn extra rewards on specific purchases. Knowing these common categories can help you choose a card that best aligns with your spending habits.

    grocery icon

    Groceries

    Many cash back cards offer additional rewards for grocery store purchases. This category is particularly beneficial for families or individuals who spend a significant portion of their budget on food and household items.

    gasCard icon

    Gas and Transit

    For those who commute or travel frequently, some cards provide higher cash back rates on gas and transit expenses, including public transportation, rideshares and parking fees.

    niceMeal icon

    Dining and Entertainment

    If you enjoy dining out or spending on entertainment, look for cards that offer extra cash back in these categories. This can include restaurants, bars, movie theaters and concert venues.

    travel icon

    Travel

    Travel-related purchases — including hotel stays and airline tickets — often earn higher rewards with certain cash back cards, making them ideal for regular travelers.

    laptop icon

    Online Shopping

    As online shopping becomes more prevalent, some cards offer additional cash back for purchases made through specific online retailers or e-commerce platforms.

How to Choose the Best Cash Back Card for You

Choosing a cash back card depends on your spending habits. If you prefer simplicity, a flat-rate card might be best. If you spend heavily in certain categories, a bonus category card could offer more rewards. If you're willing to adapt to changing categories, a rotating category card might provide the highest rewards.

1
Understand your spending habits

Do you spend more on groceries, dining out or travel? Knowing where you spend the most can help you choose a card that maximizes your rewards.

2
Know your credit score

Most cash back cards require good to excellent credit scores, but there are options for those with lower scores.

3
Compare rewards rates

Some cards offer flat-rate cash back on all purchases, while others provide higher rates in specific categories. Depending on how you spend will make certain cards more or less appealing.

4
Consider additional benefits

Look beyond the cash back rates and consider additional benefits like introductory APR offers, welcome bonuses and other perks.

5
Check fees and rates

Consider the fees and interest rates associated with each card. Some cards have annual fees that can offset the rewards earned, while others might have penalty APRs and late fees that kick in if you miss a payment.

Expert Tips for Using Cash Back Cards

Using cash back cards responsibly is crucial to maximizing your rewards and avoiding common pitfalls of cash back credit cards. Here are some expert tips to help you manage your cash back cards effectively.

Avoid Carrying a Balance

Carrying a balance means you are paying interest on your purchases, which can quickly negate any cash back gains. Bruce McClary, the vice president of communications at the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, warns, "A trap cash back cardholders often fall into is carrying a balance on their card. That's not the ideal situation with any credit card, but because cash back cards often have a higher APR than non-rewards-based credit cards, it's a really bad idea."

Understand Fees and Interest Rates

Familiarize yourself with all the rules, restrictions and limitations of the card. Liz Frazier Peck, financial planner and author of Beyond Piggy Banks and Lemonade Stands: How to Teach Young Kids About Finance, advises, "Make sure the amount you pay in interest and fees is worth the cash or rewards you are receiving."

Avoid Unnecessary Spending and Chasing Rewards

"The pursuit of points can lead to unmanageable debt, and so can the process of redeeming rewards," cautions McClary. To help make sure you can pay off your balance, don't treat your credit cards as free money or get so caught up in the game of earning rewards that you overspend. Callie Renner, a wealth advisor at Beacon Pointe Advisors, recommends that you "only use credit cards on purchases you can afford."

Simplify and Maximize Rewards

By focusing on a few cards that offer the best rewards for your spending habits, you can maximize your cash back without complicating your finances. "For my household, that means using two primary cards," says Ethan Pew, Ph.D., assistant professor of marketing at the University of Texas at Austin, "One of them is a flat-rate card, while the other one has restaurant bonus categories."

FAQ About Cash Back Credit Cards

MoneyGeek answers some of the most common questions about cash back credit cards, aiding you in making an informed decision.

What are the best cash back credit cards?

The best cash back credit cards offer high cash back in categories where you spend the most, coupled with low fees and attractive sign-up bonuses.

How can I maximize the cash back I earn from my credit cards?

Choose a card that aligns with your major spending categories to maximize cash back. Consider using a combination of cards to cover different categories and take advantage of signup bonuses. Regularly review your spending and card terms, as maximizing cash back may involve adapting to changing rewards structures.

Does cash back expire?

Whether cash back expires depends on the card issuer's policy. Some cards offer cash back that never expires as long as the account remains open, while others may have expiration dates. Always check the terms and conditions of your card for specifics on expiration.

Do cash back cards actually give you cash?

Cash back cards essentially provide a rebate on purchases, which can be redeemed as a statement credit, check or direct deposit. Although it's not immediate cash at the point of sale, it's a monetary return on your spending that can offset future expenses or add to your savings. Don't worry, it's not taxable in almost every instance

Are cash back credit cards worth it for low spenders?

Cash back cards can still be worthwhile for frugal spenders, especially cards without annual fees. Even modest spending can accumulate rewards over time. It's about finding a card that complements your spending level and patterns.

Can I use cash back to pay my credit card bill?

Yes, in most cases, you can use your cash back rewards as a statement credit to offset part of your credit card bill. This method effectively reduces your balance, making it a practical way to use your rewards.

  1. What mistakes do people make with credit cards, and specifically rewards programs?
  2. What are the "gotchas" about credit cards and rewards or cash-back programs that are not well understood by consumers?
  3. What advice can you give consumers about managing their cash-back rewards cards?
Tenpao Lee
Tenpao LeeProfessor Emeritus of Economics at Niagara University

About Doug Milnes, CFA


Doug Milnes, CFA headshot

Doug Milnes is a CFA charter holder with over 10 years of experience in corporate finance and the Head of Credit Cards at MoneyGeek. Formerly, he performed valuations for Duff and Phelps and financial planning and analysis for various companies. His analysis has been cited by U.S. News and World Report, The Hill, the Los Angeles Times, The New York Times and many other outlets.

Milnes holds a master’s degree in data science from Northwestern University. He geeks out on helping people feel on top of their credit card use, from managing debt to optimizing rewards.


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