The Ultimate Guide to Credit Cards
Tuesday, March 19, 2024

7 Best Credit Cards For Rewards (March 2024)

Whats The Best Credit Card For Rewards
Eric Bank

Written by: Eric Bank

Eric Bank
Eric Bank

Eric Bank is an M.B.A. who has covered financial and business topics since 1985, appearing regularly on Credible, eHow, WiseBread, The Nest, Zacks, Chron, BadCredit.org and dozens of other outlets. Eric specializes in taking complex subject matters and explaining them in simple terms for consumer audiences, particularly in the world of personal finance. Eric holds a Master's in Business Administration from New York University and a Master's in Finance from DePaul University.

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Edited by: Lillian Guevara-Castro

Lillian Guevara-Castro
Lillian Guevara-Castro

Lillian Guevara-Castro brings more than 30 years of editing and journalism experience to the CardRates team. She has written and edited for major news organizations, including The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and the New York Times, and she previously served as an adjunct journalism instructor at the University of Florida. Today, Lillian edits all CardRates content for clarity, accuracy, and reader engagement.

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Reviewed by: Ashley Fricker

Ashley Fricker
Ashley Fricker

Ashley Fricker has more than a decade of experience as a finance contributor and editor, and has specialized in the credit card industry since 2015. Her credit card commentary is featured on national media outlets that include CNBC, MarketWatch, Investopedia, and Reader's Digest, among many others. She has worked closely with the world’s largest banks and financial institutions, up-and-coming fintech companies, and press and news outlets to curate comprehensive content and media. Ashley holds a bachelor's degree in multimedia journalism from Florida Atlantic University.

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Advertiser Disclosure

With so many to choose from, mustering the stamina to identify the best credit card for rewards requires copious amounts of caffeine. Hundreds of credit cards are vying for your attention this year, and many of them are terrific. 

What follows is our list of the best rewards credit cards, organized by various categories. It will help you quickly find a special card to match your circumstances and requirements. To assemble the list, we sacrificed weeks of sleep so you don’t have to. You’re welcome!

Best Overall Rewards Card

There can be no rewards card that is best for every consumer. Yet, we don’t doubt that the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card comes closest to hitting that impossible mark. 

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card Review

at Chase’ssecure website

BEST OVERALL RATING

★★★★★

4.9

OVERALL RATING

  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, and $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
  • Member FDIC
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
21.49%-28.49% Variable
$95
Good/Excellent

We admire this travel credit card for its bonus rewards and generous benefits, all at a moderate annual fee. The card lets you earn Chase Ultimate Rewards®, one of the best travel points programs currently available. With its ability to multiply point values and its access to top benefits, this card from Chase is well-positioned to reign as our best overall rewards card.

Best Credit Card For Cash Back Rewards

For many consumers, nothing beats the thrill of cash back. The Discover it® Cash Back is the heavy-hitter in this issuer’s lineup of no-annual-fee cards, and it’s a great choice if you like a new bonus category each quarter.

Discover it® Cash Back Review

at Discover Card’ssecure website

CASH BACK RATING

★★★★★

4.9

OVERALL RATING

  • 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 17.24% to 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
  • No annual fee.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
0% Intro APR for 15 months
0% Intro APR for 15 months
17.24% – 28.24% Variable APR
$0
Excellent/Good

While Cashback Match is a solid incentive to get this card, you’ll want to continue using it after the first year, thanks to its low costs and generous rewards. Just remember to activate your new bonus category and understand the applicable purchase limits. 

Best Credit Card For Travel Rewards

Sophisticated travelers know and love the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. Sure, the annual fee isn’t for everyone, but if you spend much time in airports and hotels, you’ll find this card paying for itself in numerous ways.

Chase Sapphire Reserve® Review

at Chase’ssecure website

POINTS & GIFTS RATING

★★★★★

4.8

OVERALL RATING

  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™; Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
22.49%-29.49% Variable
$550
Good/Excellent

One of this card’s lesser-known perks is the generous terms of its rewards-transfer program with its travel partners that can double the redemption value of your points. Using your points to book travel through Chase not only increases their worth by 50% but also lets you access a first-rate travel agency with responsive customer service.

Best Credit Card For Flexible Miles Rewards

Flexible rewards miles don’t lock you into one airline’s frequent flyer program. Fans of travel independence will find much to like about the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

AIR MILES RATING

★★★★★

4.8

OVERALL RATING

  • Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
19.99% – 29.99% (Variable)
$95
Excellent, Good

Having this Capital One card in your wallet will let you spend your rewards on the flights and hotels that best meet your immediate needs. Capital One Travel is rated highly for its helpful service should you need to speak to an agent. The card frees you from complicated multitiered and quarterly rotating bonus categories by providing a flat rewards rate and unlimited miles on all purchases.

Best Credit Card For Airline Rewards

If you are a fan of American Airlines, the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® may suit you well. Unlike airline cards with flexible rewards miles, this card only delivers AAdvantage miles.

Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® Review

at the issuer’ssecure website

AIR MILES RATING

★★★★★

4.6

OVERALL RATING

4.5/5.0
  • Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
  • Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants
  • Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
  • Earn a $125 American Airlines Flight Discount after you spend $20,000 or more in purchases during your cardmembership year and renew your card
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to four companions traveling with you on the same reservation
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
20.49% – 29.49% (Variable)
$99, waived for first 12 months
Excellent, Good

Additional Disclosure: (The information related to Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® has been collected by CardRates.com and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer or provider of this product or service.)

You can use your reward miles for free or reduced-fare flights on American Airlines and its partners. The first checked bag is free for you and up to four companions on eligible AA flights. In addition, you earn an annual flight discount by spending a set amount each year on eligible purchases. 

Best Credit Card For Gas Rewards

If you are a Costco member, owning the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi is a no-brainer. Costco is already the low-price leader for gasoline in many locations, and this card compounds your savings nicely.

Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi Review

at the issuer’ssecure website

GAS REBATE RATING

★★★★★

4.8

OVERALL RATING

  • Discover one of Citi’s best cash back rewards cards designed exclusively for Costco members
  • 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
  • 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
  • 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
  • 1% cash back on all other purchases
  • No annual fee with your paid Costco membership and enjoy no foreign transaction fees on purchases
  • Receive an annual credit card reward certificate, which is redeemable for cash or merchandise at U.S. Costco warehouses, including Puerto Rico
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
20.49% (Variable)
$0
Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

Some card owners may not be aware that they can use this card wherever Visa is accepted. Indeed, while not the best available, its rewards for travel and dining out are undoubtedly competitive among cards optimized for at-the-pump rewards. Keep in mind, bonus cash back rewards on gas purchases are capped at a spending limit before the baseline rate applies. If you plan on spending more than that limit, you may want to get a second gas card to keep your rewards elevated.

Best Credit Card For Points Rewards

Making the second of its three appearances, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is our favorite points card. That’s not surprising since it’s our overall top pick, and it happens to offer rewards in the form of points.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card Review

at Chase’ssecure website

POINTS & GIFTS RATING

★★★★★

4.8

OVERALL RATING

  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, and $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
  • Member FDIC
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
21.49%-28.49% Variable
$95
Good/Excellent

The card delivers much of the value of its more expensive sibling, the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, despite a much lower annual fee. The card’s points are easy to convert to cash and readily transferable to partner loyalty programs. But the best use of this card’s points is redeeming them for travel at Chase and receiving a 25% value boost.

Best Credit Card For Grocery Shopping Rewards

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express wins the supermarket sweepstake for the best cash back for grocery shopping. If you shop in U.S. supermarkets, this card will earn you the best rewards currently available. 

Blue Cash Preferred® Card Review

at the issuer’ssecure website

BEST OVERALL RATING

★★★★★

4.7

OVERALL RATING

4.7/5.0
  • Earn $250 back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year on purchases (then 1%). Also earn 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
  • Earn 3% cash back on transit, including U.S. gas stations, taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses, and more. All other purchases earn 1% cash back.
  • $120 Equinox Credit – Use your Blue Cash Preferred Card to pay for Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com and receive $10 in monthly statement credits. Enrollment required.
  • 0% intro APR for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable APR applies
  • $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
0% for 12 months
N/A
18.49% – 29.49% Variable
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95
Excellent Credit

Beyond its distinction as best of breed for grocery purchases, the card is no slouch when it comes to filling your gas tank, riding on public transit, or taking an Uber. You also earn cash back each time an authorized user makes a purchase with their card, money that you can redeem as a statement credit.

Best Credit Card For Student Rewards

We’re not saying this card will make you want to go back to school, but Discover it® Student Cash Back certainly would make the journey a little easier. If you’re a young student who may not have any prior credit history, this quality unsecured card can help you learn about handling credit responsibly.

Discover it® Student Cash Back Review

at Discover Card’ssecure website

STUDENT RATING

★★★★★

4.8

OVERALL RATING

  • 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! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
  • 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.
  • No credit score required to apply.
  • 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.
  • No annual fee and build your credit with responsible use.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 18.24% – 27.24% applies.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
0% Intro APR for 6 months
10.99% Intro APR for 6 months
18.24% – 27.24% Variable APR
$0
Fair/New to Credit

Cashback Match makes a nice reward after your first year of being a cardholder. You can redeem your cash back rewards, which never expire, at the time and in the amount of your choosing. Lest you worry about the card’s acceptance, Discover cards are welcome at 99% of U.S. locations that accept credit cards.

Best Credit Card For Hotel Rewards

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card appeared after the merger of the Marriott and Starwood hotel chains. The card offers a high reward rate on Marriott purchases and a surprisingly great rate on everything else.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card Review

at the issuer’ssecure website

BEST OVERALL RATING

★★★★★

4.6

OVERALL RATING

4.6/5.0
  • Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy Bonus Points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 6X Points on hotels for eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 3X Points at U.S. restaurants and flights booked directly with airlines, and 2X Points for each dollar on everything else.
  • Enjoy up to $25 a month in Dining statement credits each calendar year for eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide.
  • Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
  • Book direct using a special rate for a 2-night minimum stay at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® and get up to $100 in credit for qualifying charges.
  • With Card Membership, you can enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited access to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying.
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
20.24% – 29.24% (Variable)
$650
Excellent

The card gives you a fixed number of Elite Night Credits per calendar year and automatic Silver Elite Status. You also get Visa Signature Concierge Service, extensive travel insurance benefits, free in-room WIFI, and a complimentary one-night stay each year after your account anniversary.

Best Credit Card For Car Rental Rewards

Chalk up another win for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, this time for its car rental benefits. It is one of the few credit cards that offers primary collision damage waiver coverage, reducing the potential claims on your car insurance policy. 

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card Review

at Chase’ssecure website

BEST OVERALL RATING

★★★★★

4.9

OVERALL RATING

  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, and $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
  • Member FDIC
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
21.49%-28.49% Variable
$95
Good/Excellent

You can pay for a rental by redeeming your points in the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. This travel credit card provides free upgrades, discounts, and special offers from select rental agencies. You also get a free executive-level membership in National’s Emerald Club that entitles you to extra benefits.

Best Credit Card For Restaurant Rewards

The American Express® Gold Card is the best-in-category thanks to its high reward rate and monthly statement credits for dining at restaurants, including takeout and delivery. And for dinner-at-home nights, the card offers the same rewards for grocery spending. 

American Express® Gold Card Review

at the issuer’ssecure website

BEST OVERALL RATING

★★★★★

4.8

OVERALL RATING

4.8/5.0
  • Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $4,000 on purchases on your new card in your first 6 months of card membership
  • Earn 4X Points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases. Also earn 4X Points at restaurants, including takeout and delivery, and 3X points on flights when booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com. All other eligible purchases earn 1X point.
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub, Seamless, Boxed and other participating partners. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
  • Delight your senses when you book The Hotel Collection with American Express Travel. Get a $100 experience credit to use during your stay. A minimum 2-night stay is required.
  • $250 Annual Fee
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
20.49% – 28.49% Pay Over Time
$250
Excellent

If you like to dine out while on vacation, you’ll appreciate the card’s travel benefits. Perks include baggage insurance, car rental loss and damage insurance, personalized travel services, and no foreign transaction fee. 

Best Credit Card For Small Businesses Rewards

The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card suits the needs of business people who frequently travel, thanks to its reward structure and benefits. 

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card Review

at Chase’ssecure website

BUSINESS CARD RATING

★★★★★

4.6

OVERALL RATING

  • Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
  • Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
  • Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
  • With Zero Liability you won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
  • Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more – your points don’t expire as long as your account is open
  • Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
21.24%-26.24% Variable
$95
Good/Excellent

Travel perks include a 1:1 point transfer to participating frequent travel programs, travel and emergency assistance services, insurance against trip cancellation or interruption, and no foreign transaction fees. Other business-friendly benefits include auto rental collision damage waiver, extended warranty protection, purchase protection, and cellphone insurance.

Best Rewards Card For Online Shopping

The Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card is the perfect choice for Amazon shoppers who have a Prime membership. The card provides generous cash back on Amazon.com purchases and a signup bonus that requires no upfront spending.

Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card Review

at the issuer’ssecure website

BEST OVERALL RATING

★★★★★

4.6

OVERALL RATING

4.6/5.0
  • Earn 5% cash back at Aamzon.com and Whole Foods market
  • Earn 2% cash back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores, 1% back on all other purchases
  • Exclusively for customers with an eligible Prime membership
  • Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon credit card approval
  • See your rewards balance during checkout at Amazon.com and easily use rewards to pay for all or part of your purchase — no minimum rewards balance to redeem rewards
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
14.24% – 22.24%
$0 (Prime Membership Required)
Good/Excellent

The card charges no annual or foreign transaction fees. Surprisingly, this store card provides many travel benefits, including travel and emergency assistance, lost luggage reimbursement, baggage delay insurance, and travel accident insurance. You also receive roadside dispatch, auto rental collision damage waiver, purchase protection, and extended warranty protection.

Best Credit Card For Everyday Rewards

The Citi Double Cash® Card does its own type of cash back “match,” using a recipe different from that of Discover’s. You receive the match every time you pay your bill, and the benefit doesn’t expire after the first year. 

Citi Double Cash® Card Review

at Citi’ssecure website

BEST OVERALL RATING

★★★★★

4.8

OVERALL RATING

  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24.
  • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% – 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
0% Intro APR Period 18 months on Balance Transfers
19.24% – 29.24% (Variable)
$0
Excellent, Good, Fair

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

You can redeem your cash back as a gift card, statement credit, check, direct deposit, or Citi ThankYou Points. If you convert your cash to points, you can transfer them to the loyalty programs of Citi’s airline partners. The card also gives you special access to select dining and entertainment experiences.

Best Secured Credit Card For Rewards

The recently introduced Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card boasts unlimited cash back on all purchases and a low refundable minimum deposit. And it accomplishes it all without an annual fee.

SECURED RATING

★★★★★

4.7

OVERALL RATING

  • No annual or hidden fees, and you can earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day. See if you’re approved in seconds
  • Put down a refundable $200 security deposit to get a $200 initial credit line
  • Building your credit? Using a card like this responsibly could help
  • Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • You could earn back your security deposit as a statement credit when you use your card responsibly, like making payments on time
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months with no additional deposit needed
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
30.74% (Variable)
$0
Limited, Bad

Your creditworthiness and deposit determine your credit limit. Continue your responsible use of credit to earn your deposit back and an upgrade to an unsecured Quicksilver card. The card offers several security features, including fraud liability protection, virtual card numbers, immediate card lock, and security alerts for suspicious transactions. 

Best Rewards Card For Excellent Credit

Discover it® Cash Back proves that you don’t have to pay an annual fee to get a card worthy of your excellent credit. The card rewards your frugality with bonus cash back on rotating merchant categories that you activate each quarter.

Discover it® Cash Back Review

at Discover Card’ssecure website

EXCELLENT CREDIT RATING

★★★★★

4.9

OVERALL RATING

  • 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 17.24% to 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
  • No annual fee.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
0% Intro APR for 15 months
0% Intro APR for 15 months
17.24% – 28.24% Variable APR
$0
Excellent/Good

The card’s Cashback Match can earn new cardmembers a sizable payoff for their first-year spending. If you post $20,000 in eligible purchases — including the reward limit on bonus-category expenditures — during Year One, you’ll earn $880 in first-year cash back. Discover is one of the few credit card companies that doesn’t confiscate your unredeemed rewards if you cancel the account.

Best Rewards Card For Good Credit

What distinguishes Chase Freedom Unlimited® is the many ways you can earn extra reward points. Moreover, most of its bonus tiers do not impose reward limits on combined purchases, an unusual and welcome benefit.

Chase Freedom Unlimited® Review

at Chase’ssecure website

GOOD CREDIT RATING

★★★★★

4.9

OVERALL RATING

  • 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
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
0% Intro APR on Purchases 15 months
0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers 15 months
20.49% – 29.24% Variable
$0
Good/Excellent

The card frequently offers special, limited-time perks from various merchant partners. If you ever upgrade to a Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, the value of any transferred points will increase by 25% or 50% when redeemed for travel via Chase Travel. This Visa card doesn’t charge penalty fees should you bounce a payment or exceed your credit limit.

Best Rewards Card For Fair Credit

The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers cash back rewards on all your purchases. The card welcomes consumers with fair credit or scant credit history. 

FAIR CREDIT RATING

★★★★★

4.8

OVERALL RATING

  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
  • No rotating categories or limits to how much you can earn, and cash back doesn’t expire for the life of the account. It’s that simple
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
  • Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • Help strengthen your credit for the future with responsible card use
  • Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
30.74% (Variable)
$39
Average, Fair, Limited

You have the option to transfer your cash rewards to a linked checking or savings account. Alternatively, you can take your rewards as a statement credit or gift card. On-time payments may help you improve your credit profile and earn a higher spending limit.

Best Rewards Card For Bad Credit

The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card allows you to rebuild your credit with regular on-time payments and earn handsome cash back rewards.

BAD CREDIT RATING

★★★★★

4.6

OVERALL RATING

  • No annual or hidden fees, and you can earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day. See if you’re approved in seconds
  • Put down a refundable $200 security deposit to get a $200 initial credit line
  • Building your credit? Using a card like this responsibly could help
  • Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • You could earn back your security deposit as a statement credit when you use your card responsibly, like making payments on time
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months with no additional deposit needed
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
30.74% (Variable)
$0
Limited, Bad

The card issuer sets your maximum credit limit based on your security deposit, income, and ability to pay your bill. Capital One may return your collateral if you consistently pay on time. This card smoothly integrates with popular digital wallets, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.

Best Rewards Card For No/Limited Credit

The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is a good choice for consumers who have little experience with credit. Unlike some of its competitors, this Visa card supports balance transfers. 

NO/LIMITED CREDIT RATING

★★★★★

4.6

OVERALL RATING

  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
  • No rotating categories or limits to how much you can earn, and cash back doesn’t expire for the life of the account. It’s that simple
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
  • Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • Help strengthen your credit for the future with responsible card use
  • Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
N/A
N/A
30.74% (Variable)
$39
Average, Fair, Limited

The card has a low annual fee and doesn’t charge penalty fees for returned payments or spending over your limit. Also, it will not impose a higher APR for late payments. You may be able to transfer your rewards to other Capital One accounts, although not all rewards products are eligible. 

Best Rewards Card With No Annual Fee

Chase Freedom Unlimited® offers several generous reward tiers, most of which impose no caps on the number of points you can earn. This feature is unusual for a no-annual-fee credit card and justifies the card’s top ranking.

Chase Freedom Unlimited® Review

at Chase’ssecure website

BEST OVERALL RATING

★★★★★

4.9

OVERALL RATING

  • 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
Intro (Purchases)
Intro (Transfers)
Regular APR
Annual Fee
Credit Needed
0% Intro APR on Purchases 15 months
0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers 15 months
20.49% – 29.24% Variable
$0
Good/Excellent

You can quickly redeem your points for cash or use them to shop on the Chase Ultimate Rewards website. If you also own a Chase Sapphire card, you can transfer your Freedom points to it. This maneuver increases the points’ value when redeemed for travel booked through Chase.

How Do Credit Card Rewards Work?

Credit card rewards take the form of cash back, points, or miles that you earn when you use your card to make eligible purchases. Not all credit cards provide rewards and those that do employ many different strategies specifying how cardholders can earn and redeem their rewards.

Earning Rewards

Generally, credit cards assign you rewards automatically for eligible purchases. Ineligible purchases include spending on gift cards, money orders, balance transfers, cash advances, card fees, gambling, and interest charges

How to Earn Credit Card Rewards

The three types of credit card rewards are:

  • Cash back: You can collect cash back in several ways, including receiving it by check or having it wired to your bank account. Or you can receive cash back as a statement credit or a gift card, among other methods.
  • Points: You use points to pay for purchases. Most cards also let you convert them to cash or to frequent flyer miles. 
  • Miles: You can receive miles for use on any airline, but co-branded cards award you airline-specific frequent flyer miles. You can use your airline miles for free or reduced-fare flights and other travel-related purchases. You may be able to transfer card miles to the loyalty programs of participating travel partners.

You earn cash back as a percentage of the amount you spend on eligible purchases. For example, a card that offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases would award you $1.50 on a $100 purchase. 

Cards express point and mile rewards using a multiplier. For example, a card offering 2X points gives you two points for each $1 you spend on eligible purchases.

Rewards may be limited to a set amount per rate and period. For example, a card may allow you to earn 3X points on the first $1,500 of restaurant spending per quarter and 1X points after that.

The methods for issuing rewards are:

  • Flat rate: You earn the same rewards rate on all purchases. For example, several leading cash back cards offer 1.5% percent on every eligible purchase. In virtually all cases, flat-rate cards offer unlimited rewards. 
  • Tiered: A tiered card offers two or more reward rates, differentiated by merchant category. For example, a card may offer 3X miles for travel purchases, 2X miles for dining out, and 1X miles on everything else. The upper tiers are called “bonus categories.” 
  • Quarterly rotating: This is a specialized type of tiered reward in which the top bonus category changes every quarter. A card may offer bonus tiers in addition to the quarterly rotating one. You must register each quarter to earn the maximum bonus reward rate, which is usually capped. For example, a card may offer 5% cash back on the bonus merchant category for up to $1,500 in combined purchases per quarter. The bonus category may be U.S. supermarkets in the first quarter, followed by travel, gas station, and wholesale club purchases in succeeding quarters. The card offers 1% cash back on all other purchases (i.e., those in non-bonus categories, those above the purchase limit, and all purchases should you fail to register for the bonus).
  • Signup bonus: Many rewards cards offer introductory signup bonuses to attract new card membership. A typical signup bonus allows you to earn a set reward when you spend a specified amount within the first three months after account opening. For example, a card may award you 50,000 miles if you spend $5,000 on eligible purchases during the introductory period. 
  • Referral bonus: Some cards offer a bonus reward each time you refer a friend who becomes a new cardmember. For example, a card may pay you $50 for each successful referral, up to 10 per year.

Generally, you can accumulate your rewards for as long as you keep your credit card account open. Some cards revoke rewards if you fail to use your card for a set period. In most cases, you forfeit any unused rewards when you cancel a credit card account. 

You can consult your monthly billing statement for your current reward status. Typically, cards update your rewards once per billing cycle. 

Redeeming Rewards

Credit card rewards do you no good unless you redeem them. The value you receive may depend upon the type of reward.

Cash back rewards are the most straightforward because they are in dollars. If you accumulate $50 in cash back, your reward is worth $50 when you redeem it. 

Points and miles are trickier. In most cases, you can convert non-cash-back rewards to cash at a known rate. For example, you may be able to cash in 10,000 bonus points for $100.

However, the value of points and miles can significantly vary when redeemed for non-cash items, including travel. The variation occurs as a result of transferring points or miles to a specific airline rewards program due to several variables:

  • Varying transfer ratios: Do not assume that you can transfer your card points or miles to an airline’s frequent flyer program on a 1:1 basis. For example, one card mile may be worth 0.8 frequent flyer miles on one airline program and a different value on another.
  • Varying reward schedules: Each airline decides how to reward members of its frequent flyer program, and the reward strategies vary widely. One airline may give you a free economy ticket for 20,000 miles while another demands 60,000 miles for a similar flight. 
  • Varying prices: Even within a single airline, the price for a flight can vary due to several factors, including destination, date and time of departure, number and length of stops, cabin class, and how far in advance you book the ticket.

To help make sense of these variables, you may want to consider using a mile rewards calculator, available online or as an app. 

Variability can also occur based on how you redeem card points or miles. For example, points you earn on the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel, but only when you book the trip through Chase’s site. 

This transaction is not a transfer of Chase card points to an airline’s frequent flyer program, nor is it considered a purchase of airplane tickets. Instead, you are redeeming your points’ cash value to cover the fare.

Many credit cards allow you to redeem your rewards in any amount and at any time. Other cards may require a minimum redemption amount. 

Which Rewards Card Is Best For Me?

There’s no shortage of good reasons to own a particular credit card. For example, you may favor cards that offer the maximum amount of cash back or the highest number of miles for a specific airline. Or perhaps you’re looking for a generous intro APR offer or a low interest rate. 

You can begin your search for the right card by determining which features will bring you the greatest utility. For example, it may not make sense to select an airlines card if you rarely travel, but it can be a good choice if you spend a lot of time in the air. 

Rewards Comparison Chart

Similarly, you wouldn’t find much value with a card offering generous rewards for gas purchases if you don’t have a car or in a card’s bonus rewards for dining out when you prefer to cook your own meals.

A low credit score may prevent you from getting the rewards card you most desire. However, several unsecured credit cards designed for consumers with bad credit offer modest rewards. The rewards from a few secured cards, such as the Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card, beat many similar unsecured cards. 

If you’re uncertain whether you’ll qualify for the rewards card you want, try prequalifying first. While prequalification doesn’t guarantee final approval, it will let you know whether it’s at least possible. Many credit cards allow you to prequalify first. Doing so takes only a minute and will not affect your credit score. 

How Do I Earn the Most Rewards?

A cash back card with flat rewards is easy to use since all everyday purchases earn the same reward rate. But this kind of card will seldom maximize your rewards because the flat rate for everyday purchases rarely exceeds 2%.

You can earn 4%, 5%, even 6% on a portion of your purchases if you have the right card. You may want to own two or more cards that favor different merchant categories to maximize your rewards. For this to pay off, you must remember which cards to use for which categories. 

How to Maximize Your Credit Card Rewards

You may also want to own two or more cards that offer similar rewards for the same merchant category. This strategy can help you overcome quarterly limits on purchases from a specific type of merchant. You’ll have to track how much of your primary card’s quota you’ve already consumed so you can switch to the backup card at the right time. 

You also may consider a credit card with high, flat rewards to cover purchases that don’t fall into any bonus categories. The Citi Double Cash® Card is a good choice, as it provides 2% cash back on all purchases. 

Pairing cards from the same issuer can release extra value. For example, Chase lets you unlock additional rewards when you own a Freedom card and a Sapphire card. You can turn points from the Freedom card into Ultimate Rewards points with greater value when redeemed for travel.

Don’t neglect the rewards you can get from signing up for a new card. Signup bonuses can be worth hundreds of dollars.

How Do I Earn a Signup Bonus?

Signup bonuses give credit card companies a fast, easy way to build card membership. You earn a card’s signup bonus (or welcome bonus) by spending a set amount on purchases during an introductory period – typically three months from the date you open the account.

For example, you may earn a $200 signup bonus by spending $500 during the first three months of card ownership. Cards with steep annual fees frequently offer more significant signup bonuses but require larger spending amounts.

A few cards offer introductory periods longer than three months. In some instances, a card may offer one welcome bonus for the first three months and a second for a subsequent period, but only if you earn the first bonus.

Some enterprising folks engage in credit card churning to earn signup bonuses. According to Experian:

“Credit card churning is the practice of repeatedly opening and closing credit cards to earn cash, rewards points, or miles. Often, you can qualify for a large intro bonus after opening a new credit card, which is something ‘churners’ exploit to try to amass a lot of rewards.”

How to Earn a Credit Card Signup Bonus

You should be surprised that credit card issuers frown on this gaming of the system. They may try to deter it by controlling how many new credit cards you can obtain within a set period.

The classic anti-churning example is Chase’s 5/24 Rule, which prohibits you from getting a new Chase card if you’ve opened five cards (including those from other issuers) within the last 24 months. 

Some other examples: American Express limits you to one welcome bonus per lifetime on any one of their cards. Discover and other issuers prohibit you from owning more than two of their cards.

If you plan to close and reapply for the same credit card, be aware that you will probably not earn a new signup bonus. Most card companies make you wait years before you become eligible for a second bite from the apple.

Would-be churners should be aware of the risks involved, including:

  • Damage to your credit score: Every time you apply for a credit card, the issuer conducts a hard credit report inquiry. A hard pull generally reduces your FICO score by up to five points for one year. Additionally, card churning reduces the average age of your credit accounts, another negative for your FICO score.
  • Retaliation from card issuers: If a card issuer suspects you of churning, it may take back rewards or close down your accounts.
  • It can get expensive: The spending required to earn a signup bonus always exceeds the bonus value. In addition, you may have to pay a steep annual fee to get a card with a generous signup bonus.

You won’t go to prison for credit card churning. But for a variety of reasons, churning is unlikely to make you rich. We would only point out that churning and its prevention cost the credit card companies money that may better go toward more generous rewards and better benefits.

Can I Earn Rewards on Cash Advances and Balance Transfers?

Credit cards permit three types of transactions — purchases, cash advances, and balance transfers. Only purchases can earn you rewards.

However, the other two transaction types can be pretty valuable even without the rewards.

Balance Transfers

A balance transfer is a transaction in which you move the outstanding balance from one credit card to another. The transfer allows you to consolidate your credit card debt in one place, making it easier to afford and schedule payments:

  • Affordability: Consolidation reduces the number of minimum payments you must make each month. The money you don’t spend on the extra minimum payments can more quickly pay down your remaining card balance. Moreover, you will save money if the balance transfer card’s APR is less than the weighted average variable APR of the consolidated cards.
  • Scheduling: After transferring your balances, you will need to schedule only one credit card payment per month. This reduces the chance that you’ll overlook the payment date and face late fees.

The least expensive way to transfer balances is to take advantage of a credit card’s 0% intro APR promotion. This is a benefit some cards offer new cardmembers to avoid interest costs on the transferred balance for a set period after account opening — typically six to 18 months. 

This type of promotion can be paired with one for purchases, or it can stand alone.

Your card’s credit limit determines how much of your outstanding balances you can transfer. The strategy is most effective when you can move the entire lot for the reasons just explained.

If you are comparison-shopping for a new credit card with a balance transfer promotion, check into the credit line you’ll receive and the length of the introductory period. Also, investigate whether the new card will place limits on the amount you can transfer.

For example, Chase limits balance transfers to $15,000 within a 30-day period. These limits may interfere with your plans.

Be prepared for the card’s regular balance transfer APR if you don’t expect to pay off the entire transferred balance during the 0% intro APR period. You may face interest charges well above 20% after the promotion expires.

Almost all credit cards charge a transaction fee for balance transfers, typically 3% to 5% of the transferred amount. Some cards waive the charge if your balance transfer isn’t part of a 0% APR promotion.

Cash Advances

Many credit cards offer short-term loans called cash advances. You can arrange a credit card cash advance quickly, without filling out any paperwork or sweating out an approval process. 

You can obtain a cash advance at an ATM, at a bank branch, or through an online or in-app transfer to another account. You can also write a cash advance check against your credit card account.

Credit cards usually set a cash advance limit that is a portion (sometimes a small portion) of your overall credit limit. You can review your cash advance balance and outstanding balance on your latest billing statement.

Unlike purchases, cash advances do not have grace periods. They accrue interest from the first day at the card’s cash advance APR, which typically is higher than the regular purchase APR. These loans aren’t cheap, frequently charging a variable APR above 25%.

Credit card cash advances do not have an interest-free grace period, not do they earn rewards.

You’ll accrue interest on your cash advance every day until you repay it in full. 

The fee credit cards charge for cash advances usually ranges from 3% to 5%, although higher fees are possible. Some cards for consumers with poor credit delay access to cash advances for several billing cycles. These same cards frequently waive the cash advance fee for the first year of card ownership.

Get the Best Credit Card That Fits Your Lifestyle

You asked, “What’s the best credit card for rewards?” We’ve devoted 5,000+ words to tell you, “It depends!” True, we name the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card as best overall and the winner in two other categories. But, ultimately, the best rewards credit card is the one that’s best for you.

You can learn more about any of the reviewed cards by clicking on the APPLY NOW links in our summary boxes. That’s where you’ll have access to each card’s detailed rates and terms, which we urge you to read before applying, as some surprises may lurk in the fine print.

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