United States

Credit Cards - Cash-Back Reward Cards

Choosing the right cash back rewards credit card is a key step in maximizing your everyday spending benefits. This page highlights important features, rewards structures, fees, and redemption options to help you make informed comparisons and find the card that best suits your spending habits and financial goals.

Understanding Cash Back Credit Cards in the U.S.
Cash back credit cards are financial tools that reward cardholders for their everyday spending. These cards typically allow you to earn a percentage of your purchases back in cash, which can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposits, or checks. Cash back cards are ideal for those who want simple, versatile rewards without restrictions on travel or loyalty programs.

How Cash Back Credit Cards Work
When you use a cash back credit card, you earn rewards as a percentage of each purchase, with some cards offering higher rates on specific categories like groceries, gas, or dining. Others provide flat-rate cash back on all spending. Many cash back cards also offer sign-up bonuses when you meet a minimum spending requirement within the first few months. Some cards allow you to redeem rewards at any time, while others require you to reach a minimum redemption amount. While cash back credit cards offer straightforward benefits, it’s important to be mindful of annual fees, interest rates, and spending habits to maximize value and avoid debt. By selecting a card that aligns with your lifestyle, you can make the most of your spending and enjoy valuable rewards.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a U.S. Cash Back Credit Card
Selecting a cash back credit card involves more than just looking at cash back rates. Here are some essential factors to evaluate:

  • Rewards Structure
    Cash back cards vary in how they award rewards. Some offer flat-rate cash back on all purchases, while others provide higher rates for specific spending categories like groceries, dining, or gas. Choose a card that aligns with your spending habits to maximize rewards.
  • Sign-Up Bonuses
    Many cash back cards offer sign-up bonuses if you meet a minimum spending requirement within the first few months. These bonuses can provide a significant boost to your rewards, but ensure the spending threshold fits within your regular budget.
  • Annual Fees and Costs
    Some cash back cards have annual fees, while others do not. Consider whether the potential rewards you’ll earn justify the fee. Also, review the card’s APR to avoid costly interest charges if you carry a balance.
  • Category Rotations and Caps
    Certain cash back cards feature rotating bonus categories or caps on how much cash back you can earn in specific categories. Make sure you’re comfortable keeping track of these details and that they match your spending patterns.
  • Redemption Options
    Cash back cards typically allow you to redeem rewards as statement credits, bank deposits, or checks. Some also offer options to redeem for gift cards or purchases. Choose a card with flexible redemption options that suit your preferences.
  • Customer Support and Digital Features
    Reliable customer support and user-friendly digital tools can enhance your experience. Look for features like easy reward tracking, online account management, and mobile apps for convenience.

Important Note

Before applying for a cash-back reward card, it’s essential to carefully review all terms, fees, and features directly with the card issuer. While this page strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information, credit card policies, rewards structures, and benefits can change over time. Confirming the details with the issuer ensures that the card aligns with your habits, financial needs, and expectations.

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Last Updated: January 2, 2025

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. This does not influence our comparisons or reviews, which are based on our independent research and analysis. All content on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Always verify details directly with the provider before making any decisions. Full disclosure Here.

Responsible Credit Card Use >

Credit cards can be a helpful financial tool, but they should be used with caution and responsibility. Carrying a balance can lead to high-interest charges, and overspending may result in unmanageable debt. Always aim to pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest, and spend only what you can afford to repay. Be mindful of your credit limit, as maxing out your card can negatively impact your credit score. Regularly monitor your statements to track spending and identify any unauthorized transactions. Remember, the benefits of credit cards, such as rewards or cash back, should never encourage unnecessary spending. Use credit cards wisely to maintain financial stability and avoid costly mistakes.

Amazon Prime Visa Card

Fees:

No annual credit card fee.
No foreign transaction fees.

APR:

0% promotional APR for 6 months on purchases of $50 or more and 12 months on purchases of $250 or more at Amazon.com or eligible retailers with Amazon Pay.
After the promotional period, a variable APR of 19.74% to 28.49% applies.

Offer:

$150 Amazon Gift Card upon approval for Prime members (limited-time offer ending January 2).

View Terms & Conditions

Features
  • 5% back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market with Prime membership; 3% back otherwise.
  • 5% back on Chase Travel purchases with Prime membership.
  • 2% back on gas, restaurants, and local transit.
  • 1% back on all other purchases.
  • Option to redeem rewards daily or choose 0% promo APR for qualifying purchases.
  • Prime-exclusive 10% back on select Amazon categories.
  • Travel and purchase protection benefits.
Details

The Amazon Prime Visa Card offers exceptional rewards for Amazon Prime members, including 5% back at Amazon.com, Whole Foods Market, and Chase Travel. Cardholders also earn 2% back on everyday spending categories like gas and dining, and 1% on all other purchases. Additional benefits include auto rental coverage, baggage delay insurance, and the option to earn daily rewards or use a 0% promotional APR for certain purchases. With no annual fee and exclusive Prime offers like 10% back on select items, this card is ideal for frequent Amazon shoppers and travelers.

Pros
  • No annual fee or foreign transaction fees.
  • High rewards rate for Amazon Prime members.
  • Robust travel and purchase protection benefits.
  • Flexible rewards redemption options.
  • Exclusive Prime offers and rotating bonuses.
Cons
  • Requires an Amazon Prime membership for maximum rewards.
  • High variable APR after the promo period.
  • Limited bonus categories beyond Amazon and travel.

View Terms & Conditions

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

Fees:

  • No annual fee.
  • 3% intro balance transfer fee for the first 60 days, then 4% for future balance transfers.

APR:

  • 0% Introductory APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases and balance transfers made within the first 60 days.
  • Variable APR of 18.49% to 28.49% after the intro period.

Offer:

  • $200 online cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.

View Terms & Conditions

Features
  • 3% cash back in your choice category (e.g., gas, dining, travel).
  • 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs.
  • 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Customizable categories that can be changed monthly via online or mobile banking.
  • Intro 0% APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and qualifying balance transfers.
  • Preferred Rewards members earn an extra 25%-75% cash back.
Details

The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card is designed for users seeking flexibility in earning rewards. With 3% cash back in a customizable category and 2% back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, the card allows tailored rewards for up to $2,500 in combined category purchases each quarter. Preferred Rewards members enjoy enhanced earning rates, with bonuses ranging from 25%-75%. Additionally, the card offers a $200 cash bonus after meeting the initial spending requirement and features a 0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers. With no annual fee, this card is ideal for those seeking customizable rewards and value.

Pros
  • No annual fee.
  • Customizable rewards categories for maximum flexibility.
  • High cash back rates for Preferred Rewards members.
  • Generous $200 signup bonus.
  • 0% intro APR for purchases and balance transfers.
Cons
  • Cash back rates are capped at $2,500 in combined category purchases per quarter.
  • Balance transfers incur fees, even during the intro period.
  • Requires active management to optimize rewards categories.

View Terms & Conditions

U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

Fees:

No annual fee.

APR:

  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 billing cycles.
  • Variable APR of 18.49% – 28.74% after the intro period.

Offer:

  • $200 rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening.

View Terms & Conditions

Features
  • 5% cash back on two categories of your choice each quarter (e.g., home utilities, department stores, electronic stores).
  • 2% cash back on one everyday category of your choice (e.g., gas stations, grocery stores).
  • 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
  • 5% cash back on prepaid travel bookings made in the Rewards Center.
  • Up to 5% total cash back on online shopping when using the Rewards Center or browser extension.
  • Flexible redemption options for cash back rewards.
Details

The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card provides personalized earning potential with up to 5% cash back in two categories of your choice and 2% back in one everyday category. Cardholders can earn a $200 rewards bonus after meeting the initial spending requirement and enjoy a 0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers. Additional features include 5% back on prepaid travel and exclusive online shopping bonuses through the Rewards Center. With no annual fee and flexible redemption options, this card is ideal for those seeking tailored rewards and versatile benefits.

Pros
  • No annual fee.
  • High 5% cash back on selected categories.
  • Customizable categories for maximum rewards.
  • Generous $200 signup bonus.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers.
  • Flexible redemption options.
Cons
  • 5% and 2% cash back are capped at $2,000 in combined purchases per quarter.
  • Limited to specific categories for maximum rewards.
  • Category selection requires activation each quarter.

View Terms & Conditions

Chase Freedom Flex® Credit Card

Fees:

  • No annual fee.

APR:

  • 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers.
  • Variable APR of 19.74%–28.49% after the intro period.

Offer:

  • $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

View Terms & Conditions

Features
  • 5% cash back on quarterly rotating bonus categories (up to $1,500 per quarter).
  • 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel.
  • 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases.
  • 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No expiration on cash back rewards as long as the account is open.
  • 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
  • No annual fee.
Details

The Chase Freedom Flex® Credit Card offers a versatile cash back program with 5% on quarterly rotating bonus categories and travel purchased through Chase Travel. Cardholders also earn 3% on dining and drugstore purchases and 1% on all other purchases. A $200 signup bonus is available after meeting the low spending requirement, and the card features a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. With no annual fee, this card is ideal for those who want flexibility in earning and redeeming cash back rewards, with the added benefit of no expiration on rewards.

Pros
  • No annual fee.
  • Generous 5% cash back on quarterly categories and travel purchases.
  • 3% back on dining and drugstores.
  • Low $500 spending requirement for $200 signup bonus.
  • No expiration on cash back rewards.
  • 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
Cons
  • Quarterly categories require activation for 5% rewards.
  • Cash back on bonus categories capped at $1,500 per quarter.
  • Rotating categories may not align with individual spending habits.

View Terms & Conditions

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Fees:

  • $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

APR:

  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from account opening.
  • Variable APR of 18.24% to 29.24% after the intro period.

Offer:

  • Earn up to $300 back after spending $3,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership (cash back received as a statement credit).

View Terms & Conditions

Features
  • 6% cash back on U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year) and on select streaming subscriptions.
  • 3% cash back on transit and gas stations.
  • 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Use cash back as a statement credit or at checkout on Amazon.com.
  • Access features like “Plan It®” to split large purchases into installments with a fixed fee.
  • $84 Disney Bundle Credit ($7 monthly statement credit for eligible subscriptions).
  • Amex Offers for extra rewards on qualifying purchases.
Details

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is ideal for families and individuals who spend heavily on groceries and streaming subscriptions, offering an unmatched 6% cash back in these categories (up to $6,000 annually for groceries). Additionally, cardholders enjoy 3% back on transit and gas station purchases and 1% back on all other spending. A welcome offer of up to $300 and a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers make this card even more appealing. With tools like “Plan It®” for installment payments and the Disney Bundle Credit, this card is packed with benefits, though it carries an annual fee after the first year.

Pros
  • High 6% cash back rate on groceries and streaming services.
  • 3% cash back on transit and gas stations.
  • Flexible redemption options, including Amazon checkout.
  • 0% intro APR for purchases and balance transfers for 12 months.
  • Generous $300 welcome offer.
Cons
  • $95 annual fee after the first year.
  • 6% cash back at supermarkets capped at $6,000 annually.
  • Limited 6% and 3% cash back categories to specific spending areas.

View Terms & Conditions

Chase Freedom Unlimited® Credit Card

Fees:

  • No annual fee.

APR:

  • 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers.
  • Variable APR of 19.74%–28.49% after the intro period.

Offer:

  • $250 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

View Terms & Conditions

Features
  • Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
  • 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel.
  • 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases.
  • No expiration on cash back rewards as long as the account is open.
  • 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
  • No annual fee.
Details

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® Credit Card offers straightforward rewards with unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases and enhanced rates on specific categories. Cardholders earn 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Travel and 3% on dining and drugstore purchases. A $250 welcome bonus is available with a low spending requirement, and a 0% intro APR applies for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. With no annual fee and rewards that never expire, this card is ideal for users seeking consistent cash back rewards without worrying about rotating categories or caps.

Pros
  • No annual fee.
  • Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
  • Enhanced 5% and 3% bonus cash back categories.
  • Generous $250 welcome bonus with a low spending threshold.
  • No expiration on cash back rewards.
  • 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
Cons
  • Higher cash back rates limited to specific categories.
  • Balance transfers incur fees during the intro period.

View Terms & Conditions

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Credit Card

Fees:

No annual fee.

APR:

  • 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and qualifying balance transfers.
  • Variable APR of 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% after the intro period.

Offer:

  • $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases within the first 3 months.

View Terms & Conditions

Features
  • Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases.
  • 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers.
  • Cell phone protection up to $600 against theft or damage.
  • Auto rental collision damage waiver when paying with the card.
  • Travel and emergency assistance services available globally.
  • Personalized merchant deals through My Wells Fargo Deals.
  • Zero liability protection for unauthorized transactions.
  • Complimentary access to Credit Close-Up® for FICO® Score tracking and credit insights.
Details

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Credit Card is a top choice for those seeking straightforward cash back rewards. With unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, a $200 bonus after meeting the spending requirement, and no annual fee, this card is ideal for consistent earners. Its extensive redemption options allow flexibility, while added benefits such as cell phone protection, travel assistance, and credit tracking tools enhance its value. Additionally, the card features a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers, providing further financial flexibility.

Pros
  • No annual fee.
  • Unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases.
  • Generous $200 bonus with a low spending threshold.
  • Wide range of redemption options, including PayPal and ATMs.
  • Valuable benefits such as cell phone protection and travel assistance.
  • 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers.
Cons
  • No bonus categories for higher cash back rates.
  • Relatively short 12-month intro APR period compared to competitors.
  • Balance transfers must be made within 120 days to qualify for the intro APR.

View Terms & Conditions

Frequently Asked Questions
How do cash back credit cards work?

Cash back credit cards reward you with a percentage of your purchases back as cash. The rewards can be a flat rate on all spending, like 1.5%, or they may offer higher percentages in specific categories like groceries or travel.

What is the difference between flat-rate and category cash back cards?

Flat-rate cards offer the same cash back percentage on all purchases, while category cards provide higher rewards for specific spending areas, such as dining or gas, but may have lower rewards for other purchases.

Is there a limit on how much cash back I can earn?

Some cash back cards impose caps on the amount you can earn in certain categories. After reaching the limit, the rewards typically revert to a lower percentage. Be sure to check each card’s terms for any earning limits.

Are there annual fees on cash back credit cards?

Some cash back cards, like the Chase Freedom Unlimited®, have no annual fees, while others may charge an annual fee for premium benefits, like the Blue Cash Preferred® from American Express, which has a $95 fee. Make sure your rewards outweigh any potential fees.

Do cash back rewards expire?

Most cash back rewards do not expire as long as your account remains in good standing. However, it’s essential to check the terms for each card, as some may impose expiration dates if the account is inactive for extended periods.

Overview & Comparison

Get an overview and comparison of popular airline co-branded credit cards. 

What should I consider when choosing a cash back credit card?

When selecting a cash back credit card, focus on rewards categories, spending habits, and fees. Cards like the Wells Fargo Active Cash® offer flat-rate cash back, while the Blue Cash Preferred® from American Express provides higher cash back on specific categories like groceries and gas. Consider the card that best matches your spending patterns to maximize rewards.

How do rotating cash back categories work?

Cards like the Chase Freedom Flex® feature rotating categories, where specific spending areas (e.g., gas stations, groceries) earn higher cash back rates during certain periods. Be sure to activate these categories each quarter to maximize your rewards. Compare cards with rotating categories to find ones that align with your spending habits.

What are the advantages of a flat-rate cash back card?

Flat-rate cash back cards, such as the Synchrony Premier World Mastercard® and Wells Fargo Active Cash®, provide the same cash back percentage on all purchases. This is ideal for users who prefer simplicity and don’t want to track bonus categories. These cards often come with no annual fees and are great for consistent rewards across a variety of purchases.

Are cash back rewards limited by spending caps?

Some cards, like the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card, offer higher cash back percentages but limit how much you can earn in certain categories. For example, you may get 3% cash back on a selected category, like dining, up to a specific spending cap. After reaching the cap, the rewards drop to 1%, so it’s important to know each card’s limits.

How can I maximize cash back with specific category cards?

Maximizing rewards with category-specific cards like the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card involves carefully selecting your bonus categories based on your largest monthly expenses. For instance, choose categories like dining, groceries, or streaming services, depending on your spending habits, and review your options each quarter to optimize rewards.

Are there any fees to be aware of with cash back cards?

While many cash back cards have no annual fees, such as the Chase Freedom Unlimited®, some may include fees for premium features. For example, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express offers high cash back on groceries but has an annual fee of $95. Compare whether your cash back rewards will offset the cost of the annual fee before committing.

How does the Amazon Prime Visa Card work for cash back?

The Amazon Prime Visa Card offers up to 5% cash back on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases for Prime members. This makes it a top choice for frequent Amazon shoppers. You can also earn 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases. It’s ideal for loyal Amazon users looking to maximize cash back on everyday purchases.

Responsible Credit Card Usage

While credit cards can offer convenience and benefits, it’s crucial to use them with caution. Be aware of interest rates, fees, and repayment terms to avoid accumulating unmanageable debt. It’s easy to overspend, so always stay within your budget and aim to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges. Before choosing a credit card, thoroughly review its terms and conditions directly with the provider and ensure that it aligns with your financial situation and spending habits. Responsible usage is key to maintaining good financial health.

Summary

Here is a summary of

Cash-Back Credit Cards in the USA

Amazon Prime Visa Card

The Amazon Prime Visa Card offers exceptional rewards for Amazon Prime members, including 5% back at Amazon.com, Whole Foods Market, and Chase Travel. Cardholders also earn 2% back on everyday spending categories like gas and dining, and 1% on all other purchases. Additional benefits include auto rental coverage, baggage delay insurance, and the option to earn daily rewards or use a 0% promotional APR for certain purchases. With no annual fee and exclusive Prime offers like 10% back on select items, this card is ideal for frequent Amazon shoppers and travelers.

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card is designed for users seeking flexibility in earning rewards. With 3% cash back in a customizable category and 2% back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, the card allows tailored rewards for up to $2,500 in combined category purchases each quarter. Preferred Rewards members enjoy enhanced earning rates, with bonuses ranging from 25%-75%. Additionally, the card offers a $200 cash bonus after meeting the initial spending requirement and features a 0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers. With no annual fee, this card is ideal for those seeking customizable rewards and value.

U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card provides personalized earning potential with up to 5% cash back in two categories of your choice and 2% back in one everyday category. Cardholders can earn a $200 rewards bonus after meeting the initial spending requirement and enjoy a 0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers. Additional features include 5% back on prepaid travel and exclusive online shopping bonuses through the Rewards Center. With no annual fee and flexible redemption options, this card is ideal for those seeking tailored rewards and versatile benefits.

Chase Freedom Flex® Credit Card

The Chase Freedom Flex® Credit Card offers a versatile cash back program with 5% on quarterly rotating bonus categories and travel purchased through Chase Travel. Cardholders also earn 3% on dining and drugstore purchases and 1% on all other purchases. A $200 signup bonus is available after meeting the low spending requirement, and the card features a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. With no annual fee, this card is ideal for those who want flexibility in earning and redeeming cash back rewards, with the added benefit of no expiration on rewards.

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is ideal for families and individuals who spend heavily on groceries and streaming subscriptions, offering an unmatched 6% cash back in these categories (up to $6,000 annually for groceries). Additionally, cardholders enjoy 3% back on transit and gas station purchases and 1% back on all other spending. A welcome offer of up to $300 and a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers make this card even more appealing. With tools like “Plan It®” for installment payments and the Disney Bundle Credit, this card is packed with benefits, though it carries an annual fee after the first year.

Chase Freedom Unlimited® Credit Card

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® Credit Card offers straightforward rewards with unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases and enhanced rates on specific categories. Cardholders earn 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Travel and 3% on dining and drugstore purchases. A $250 welcome bonus is available with a low spending requirement, and a 0% intro APR applies for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. With no annual fee and rewards that never expire, this card is ideal for users seeking consistent cash back rewards without worrying about rotating categories or caps.

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Credit Card

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Credit Card is a top choice for those seeking straightforward cash back rewards. With unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, a $200 bonus after meeting the spending requirement, and no annual fee, this card is ideal for consistent earners. Its extensive redemption options allow flexibility, while added benefits such as cell phone protection, travel assistance, and credit tracking tools enhance its value. Additionally, the card features a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers, providing further financial flexibility.