7 Best Credit Cards for Recent College Graduates (2026)
Writer: Ray FitzGerald
Ray FitzGerald, Contributor
Ray Fitzgerald has more than a decade of journalism experience, writing for national media outlets, including the Miami Herald and Investment Times. Ray is passionate about traditional and alternative investment strategies, but most enjoys sharing creative ways to budget and save money. Ray has personally written about hundreds of credit card offers from banks and credit unions across America and enjoys helping people find the best cards and rewards programs for their specific spending needs.
Lillian Guevara-Castro brings more than 30 years of editing and journalism experience to the CardRates team. She has worked at The Atlanta Journal and Constitution, Gwinnett Daily News, Gainesville Sun, and The New York Times, where she covered demographics, consumer issues, and the business and financial sectors. Lillian has a degree in journalism and communications from Georgia State University and brings her fact-checking expertise to ensure Digital Brands content is accurate and engaging.
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.
Finding the best credit cards for recent college graduates doesn’t have to be a thesis-level research endeavor. Sure, there are a lot of cards out there, but we’ve narrowed the list down to some of our top choices.
Graduation is exciting. The cap, the gown, the proud parents gathered ’round. Maybe a fancy dinner or graduation-present trip.
Then it’s over — and the Real World is at your door. You need to get a job, start paying bills, and do all that “adulting” you’ve heard so much about on the internet (#adulting).
For instance, adults build credit. And one of the easiest ways to establish and build a credit profile is through responsible credit card use. You may even earn rewards while you’re at it.
Best “No/Limited Credit” Cards for Recent Graduates
While 67% of graduates have at least one credit card, many students have yet to even establish credit, let alone build the good credit score needed to qualify for many of the best rewards credit cards.
Instead, because most new graduates will have no or limited credit history, new credit card options are going to be similarly limited. But there are a number of quality credit cards designed specifically for credit builders.
When choosing a card to build credit, you’ll need to decide between an unsecured credit card or a secured card. Both have advantages and disadvantages, so it’s often best to compare your options.
Unsecured cards are what most people think about when they think about credit cards; they’re a line of credit extended to you by the issuing bank that you can use to make purchases, all without a deposit.
However, the lack of a deposit makes unsecured credit cards riskier for the bank — which can make unsecured cards harder to get for someone with limited credit, so you’ll likely need to look for entry-level unsecured cards like our picks below.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
The secured Self Visa® Credit Card* requires no credit check or minimum score.
Reports to all 3 major credit bureaus to establish and build credit, with free access to your credit score.
Secure your credit line with a refundable security deposit as low as $100.**
Deposits are returned upon account closure after settling outstanding balances.
*The secured Self Visa® Credit Card is issued by Lead Bank, Sunrise Banks, N.A., or First Century Bank, N.A., each Member FDIC.
**Qualification for the secured Self Visa® Credit Card is based on meeting eligibility requirements, including income and expense requirements and establishment of security interest. Criteria subject to change.
Intro (Purchases)N/A
Intro (Transfers)N/A
Regular APRVariable APR of 27.49%
Annual Fee$0 annual fee for the first year only, $25 annual fee thereafter
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
2% cash back on category of choice with direct deposit***
The perks of credit building meet the best of banking****
Chime Checking Account required to apply for the Chime Visa® Credit Card
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC. The secured Chime Visa® Credit Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A. pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank.
*Money added to Chime CardTM will be held in a secured deposit account as collateral for your Chime Card, and you can spend up to this amount. You can use money deposited in your Secured Deposit Account to pay off your charges at the end of every month.
**Out-of-network ATM withdrawal and over the counter advance fees may apply.
***With a qualifying direct deposit, earn 2% cash back on category of choice on eligible secured Chime Visa® Credit Card purchases.
****On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Results may vary.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
No annual or hidden fees. See if you're approved in seconds
Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
Help build your credit through responsible use of a card like this
Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It's free for everyone
Get access to your account 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with online banking from your desktop or smartphone, with Capital One's mobile app
Check out quickly and securely with a contactless card, without touching a terminal or handing your card to a cashier. Just hover your card over a contactless reader, wait for the confirmation, and you're all set
Pay by check, online or at a local branch, all with no fee - and pick the monthly due date that works best for you
Unsecured credit cards are risky for the banks because their only recourse if the cardholder defaults is to go through legal channels to try and get their money back (which can be expensive in and of itself).
One way credit card issuers offset some of this possible loss is through higher fees. This means unsecured cards that approve those with low credit scores or thin credit profiles often carry much higher interest rates than cards aimed at those with higher scores.
In other words? Carrying a balance on an unsecured starter card from month to month will likely be expensive, so always pay your credit card in full each month (which is just plain good credit card behavior in the first place).
Best Secured Cards for No/Limited Credit
Secured credit cards are also good credit-building cards, but they’re a little more involved than unsecured cards. Specifically, you’ll be required to provide a cash deposit to open a secured credit account.
Because secured cards are less risky to the issuer, they often have lower interest rates and fees, as well as offering additional perks. For example, some of our top secured cards come with no annual fee and may even offer cash back rewards.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
2% cash back on category of choice with direct deposit***
The perks of credit building meet the best of banking****
Chime Checking Account required to apply for the Chime Visa® Credit Card
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC. The secured Chime Visa® Credit Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A. pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank.
*Money added to Chime CardTM will be held in a secured deposit account as collateral for your Chime Card, and you can spend up to this amount. You can use money deposited in your Secured Deposit Account to pay off your charges at the end of every month.
**Out-of-network ATM withdrawal and over the counter advance fees may apply.
***With a qualifying direct deposit, earn 2% cash back on category of choice on eligible secured Chime Visa® Credit Card purchases.
****On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Results may vary.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
The secured Self Visa® Credit Card* requires no credit check or minimum score.
Reports to all 3 major credit bureaus to establish and build credit, with free access to your credit score.
Secure your credit line with a refundable security deposit as low as $100.**
Deposits are returned upon account closure after settling outstanding balances.
*The secured Self Visa® Credit Card is issued by Lead Bank, Sunrise Banks, N.A., or First Century Bank, N.A., each Member FDIC.
**Qualification for the secured Self Visa® Credit Card is based on meeting eligibility requirements, including income and expense requirements and establishment of security interest. Criteria subject to change.
Intro (Purchases)N/A
Intro (Transfers)N/A
Regular APRVariable APR of 27.49%
Annual Fee$0 annual fee for the first year only, $25 annual fee thereafter
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
With a secured card, your deposit acts as collateral. Essentially, the deposit you make secures the credit line against default, ensuring the bank won’t lose money if you can’t pay your balance.
As such, the size of your deposit will typically determine the size of your credit line. In many cases, you’ll be able to make a deposit larger than the minimum to secure a larger credit line.
One of the best parts about secured credit cards is that your deposit is completely refundable, provided you keep your account in good standing. You can recover your deposit at any time by closing your credit card account.
Best “No/Low Fee” Cards for Recent Graduates
In the modern educational world, student loans are a big part of the picture for many students. In fact, 40% of adults under the age of 30 have student loan debt weighing down their finances.
Of course, even if you do manage to escape college with both your degree and no debt, chances are good you won’t exactly be rolling in the cash for a while yet, which makes saving money wherever you can a top priority.
And one of those places you can save is your credit card. Between cards with no annual fee and cards with no-interest offers, you can often build credit without burdening your budget.
One of the largest costs associated with credit cards is that pesky annual fee, which can range anywhere from $30 up to $2,500, depending on the perks and rewards. While annual fees can be worth it for some cards and consumers, they’re likely more of a drain than a boon to a new graduates budget.
But you don’t need to shell out the big bucks for a quality credit card, not even if you want awesome rewards. Many of our favorite annual-fee-free credit cards offer the whole package, including purchase rewards and solid sign-up bonuses.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.24% - 27.99%.
No annual fee - You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex℠ card
Keep tabs on your credit health - Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR on Purchases 15 months
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers 15 months
Regular APR19.24% - 27.99% Variable
Annual Fee$0
Credit NeededGood/Excellent
Additional Disclosure: Non-Monetized. The information related to Chase Freedom Flex℠ was collected by CardRates and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product/card. Product details may vary. Please see issuer website for current information. CardRates does not receive commission for this product.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. 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.
Redeem cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. Then 17.49% to 26.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
UNLIMITED BONUS: Unlimited mile-for-mile match for all new cardmembers. Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. There’s no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a mile-for-mile match. You could turn 35,000 miles into 70,000 miles.
Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x miles on every dollar of every purchase
No annual fee.
Turn miles into cash. Or redeem as a statement credit for your travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants, and more.
0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. Then 17.49% to 26.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR will apply.
An important thing to remember when it comes to cards without an annual fee is that you may still be charged other types of fees. If you let your balance carry over from month to month, for example, you’ll likely be charged interest fees.
And other transaction types can also come with fees, including balance transfers and cash advances, which both come with service fees as well as their own interest fee rates. Understand the possible charges before making these types of transactions with your card.
Best Cards with 0% Intro APR on New Purchases
Ah, interest fees, the pain-in-the-neck fees that can turn a relatively small purchase into an expensive one in a matter of months. While you can avoid accruing interest fees by paying your balance in full every month, sometimes that simply isn’t an option — especially on a recent-grad budget.
Credit cards that come with introductory 0% APR offers can provide 12 months or more of interest-free purchasing, helping you make those important “real world” purchases while working your way up the corporate ladder. Many of our top-rated offers even come with no annual fees.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
New! 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 14.99% - 25.99% will apply. A 5% fee applies to all balance transfers. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
No annual fee.
No penalty APR. Paying late won't automatically raise your interest rate (APR). Other account pricing and terms apply.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 5% of the amount of each transaction)
Regular APR14.99% - 25.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
4.9/5.0
About this rating
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice. You’ll automatically earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, then earn unlimited 1% thereafter. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
Select your card design option when you apply – the Customized Cash Rewards design, or the limited-time FIFA World Cup 2026™ design.
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee$0
Credit NeededExcellent/Good
Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn 20,000 bonus Points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months; after that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness. 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).
Earn 3 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent in an eligible Self-Select Category of your choice (Fitness Clubs, Select Streaming Services, Live Entertainment, Cosmetic Stores/Barber Shops/Hair Salons, or Pet Supply Stores). Choose your eligible Self-Select Category on Citi Online or by calling customer service. The default Self-Select Category is Select Streaming Services.
Earn 5 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals and Attractions booked on Citi Travel® via cititravel.com; earn 3 ThankYou Points for each $1 spent at Supermarkets, on Select Transit purchases, and at Gas & EV Charging Stations.
Earn 2 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent at Restaurants; earn 1 ThankYou® Point for each $1 spent on All Other Purchases.
No Annual Fee
Intro (Purchases)0% 15 months on Purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% 15 months on Balance Transfers
A key consideration when using 0% APR offers is to remember that they’re temporary. Once your introductory period has expired, your new purchase APR will revert to the default rate listed on your cardholder agreement.
This means any balance from new purchases remaining on your card after the terms expire will start accruing interest at the default rate, so be sure to pay off your balance in full before the promotion expires to avoid being charged interest fees.
Best Cards with 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfer
If more than half of college graduates have at least one credit card, that means at least half of graduates may be leaving college with credit card debt. And chances are good that debt is accruing interest at a high rate.
One of the best ways to lower your interest rate is to transfer your balance to a credit card with a 0% intro-APR. The best balance transfer cards, like our top picks below, can provide 12 months or more interest-free to pay down your balance.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
New! 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 14.99% - 25.99% will apply. A 5% fee applies to all balance transfers. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
No annual fee.
No penalty APR. Paying late won't automatically raise your interest rate (APR). Other account pricing and terms apply.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 5% of the amount of each transaction)
Regular APR14.99% - 25.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months and on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening. After that the variable APR will be 16.49% - 27.24%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
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).
No Annual Fee - our low intro rates and all the benefits don't come with a yearly charge.
Buy now and pay later. Split your payment for eligible purchases of $75 or more into a fixed payment with Citi® Flex Pay.
Get free access to your FICO® Score online.
Intro (Purchases)0% 12 months on Purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% 21 months on Balance Transfers
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
New! 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 14.99% - 25.99% will apply. A 5% fee applies to all balance transfers. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
No annual fee.
No penalty APR. Paying late won't automatically raise your interest rate (APR). Other account pricing and terms apply.
When handled responsibly, a credit card can help you build your credit history, which could be helpful when looking for an apartment, a car loan, and even a job.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 5% of the amount of each transaction)
Regular APR14.99% - 25.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
One thing to note about balance transfers is that most credit cards will charge a balance transfer fee to move a balance to that card. These fees can range from 3% to 5% of the total balance you want to move and can reduce the amount that can be transferred.
Additionally, you can’t transfer a balance between cards from the same issuer. For example, you can’t transfer a Chase credit card balance to another Chase credit card. Finally, keep in mind that you generally won’t earn any rewards for transferred balances, nor will they count toward the spending requirement for a signup bonus.
Best “Rewards” Cards for Recent Graduates
For those diligent graduates who worked to build good credit while still in school, the options for an after-graduation credit card may be a whole lot more expansive than those available to their no-credit classmates.
And those options include a wealth of awesome rewards credit cards that can turn almost any purchase into a rewarding buy.
Rewards credit cards come in three main types: cash back, air miles, and points. The type of rewards you should seek out will depend on your personal spending style, as well as how you’re most likely to redeem your rewards.
Cash back rewards are most often the simplest to redeem, with the option to cash in your rewards for a statement credit or a deposit into a qualifying bank account.
You’ll typically find two types of cash back cards. The first simply provides the same rewards rate for every card purchase, while the second also offers bonus rewards for specific types of purchases. Our list of favorite cash back cards includes the best of both worlds.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
4.9/5.0
About this rating
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice. You’ll automatically earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, then earn unlimited 1% thereafter. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
Select your card design option when you apply – the Customized Cash Rewards design, or the limited-time FIFA World Cup 2026™ design.
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee$0
Credit NeededExcellent/Good
Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
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, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked with Citi Travel.
Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 17.49% - 27.49%, based on your creditworthiness.
Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Intro (Purchases)N/A
Intro (Transfers)0% 18 months on Balance Transfers
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. 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.
Redeem cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. Then 17.49% to 26.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
To choose the right cash back card, consider where you spend the most each month, and select a card that complements those purchases. For example, if you spend a lot on gas, groceries, and other common purchases, choose a card that offers bonus cash back for those categories.
If, on the other hand, your spending doesn’t fall into common categories, you’ll likely be better off with an unlimited flat-rate cash back card that offers 1.5% or better on all purchases.
Best Air Miles Rewards Credit Cards
Each year, many new graduates strap on their backpacks and head out on a travel adventure before they have to join the workforce. But traveling the world isn’t exactly cheap, which is where travel rewards credit cards can be handy.
With a good travel rewards credit card, like those on our list below, you can earn miles that can be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses, turning an expensive pipe dream into a more affordable reality.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge and Landing locations and participating Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn a one-time welcome bonus of 100,000 miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, everywhere, no limits or category restrictions, and miles won't expire for the life of the account
Receive up to $220 in credits: Receive an annual $50 travel credit for bookings through Capital One Business Travel, up to an annual $50 statement credit for purchases at qualifying advertising or software merchants, plus up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® every four years. Terms and conditions apply
Unlimited 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Business Travel
Transfer your miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs
Redeem your miles instantly for any travel-related purchases, from flights and hotels to ride-sharing services
$95 annual fee
Free employee cards which also earn unlimited 2X miles from their purchases
When comparing air miles cards, you’ll come across both co-branded and bank-branded cards. Co-branded cards earn frequent flyer miles for specific airlines, and those miles can only be redeemed for flights with those airlines.
The more flexible travel rewards cards are those only branded with the issuing bank (e.g., Chase, Capital One), as these points and miles can often be redeemed directly for travel on any airline (or with any hotel brand).
Best Points Rewards Credit Cards
With the ability to redeem points for both cash back and travel in many cases, points rewards credit cards are often the best choice for those who want versatile rewards and a variety of redemption options.
As with other types of rewards cards, points rewards come in two flavors: unlimited flat-rate rewards or bonus category rewards. Given that the best pick for you will depend on your personal spending habits, it can be beneficial to explore both types, starting with our top picks below.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
Earn 10 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
Earn 3 Points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
$100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn 20,000 bonus Points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months; after that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness. 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).
Earn 3 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent in an eligible Self-Select Category of your choice (Fitness Clubs, Select Streaming Services, Live Entertainment, Cosmetic Stores/Barber Shops/Hair Salons, or Pet Supply Stores). Choose your eligible Self-Select Category on Citi Online or by calling customer service. The default Self-Select Category is Select Streaming Services.
Earn 5 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals and Attractions booked on Citi Travel® via cititravel.com; earn 3 ThankYou Points for each $1 spent at Supermarkets, on Select Transit purchases, and at Gas & EV Charging Stations.
Earn 2 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent at Restaurants; earn 1 ThankYou® Point for each $1 spent on All Other Purchases.
No Annual Fee
Intro (Purchases)0% 15 months on Purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% 15 months on Balance Transfers
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn 75,000 bonus Points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
Earn 12 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on cititravel.com and 6 Points per $1 spent on Air Travel booked on cititravel.com
Earn 6 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants including Restaurant Delivery Services on CitiNights℠ purchases, every Friday and Saturday from 6 PM to 6 AM ET. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent any other time
Earn 1.5 Points per $1 spent on All Other Purchases
Up to $300 Annual Hotel Benefit: Each calendar year, enjoy up to $300 off a hotel stay of two nights or more when booked through cititravel.com.
Although points rewards can usually be redeemed for a wide range of things, including cash back, travel, and gift cards, not all redemption options offer the same per-point value.
In many cases, redeeming points directly for travel or by transferring to a qualifying hotel or airline partner (when available) can provide the best per-point value.
Start Off Your Professional Life with Good Credit Decisions
After years of hard work, lectures, and exams, graduating can be a huge relief — right up until you realize you now have to start being an adult.
One of the most important things you can do to start your post-college financial life off right is to start responsibly building credit. But the keyword here is responsibly.
Establishing a credit profile will do you little good if you start by building bad credit, so be sure to practice responsible credit behaviors.
This includes always (always, always) paying your debts and bills on time, maintaining low credit card balances, and being stingy about opening new credit lines.
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