Best Cash Back Card Offers
2024 Bankrate Awards Winner
BEST OVERALL
Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Wells Fargo's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
2%
Rewards rate
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Annual fee
Regular APR
2024 Bankrate Awards Winner
Best cash back on everyday spending
Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5
4.6
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on American Express's secure site
See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
1% - 3%
Rewards rate
3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best Balance Transfer Card Offers
Best for balance transfers with excellent credit
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Citi's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Balance transfer intro APR
Regular APR
N/A
Rewards rate
Rewards rate is not available for this credit card.
Annual fee
Best for long intro APR
Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Wells Fargo's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening
Purchase intro APR
Regular APR
N/A
Intro offer
Intro offer is not available for this Wells Fargo credit card.
N/A
Rewards rate
Rewards rate is not available for this credit card.
Annual fee
Best 0% Intro APR Card Offers
Best for travel card beginners
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Capital One's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
0% intro on purchases for 15 months
Purchase intro APR
Regular APR
Intro offer
Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
1.25 Miles - 5 Miles
Rewards rate
5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel 1.25 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
Annual fee
BEST FOR LONG-TERM VALUE
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Chase's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
0% Intro APR on Purchases for 15 months
Purchase intro APR
Regular APR
Intro offer
Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That's 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
1.5% - 5%
Rewards rate
Enjoy 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 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service 1.5% on all other purchases
Annual fee
Best Rewards Credit Card Offers
Best for point value
Rating: 4.8 stars out of 5
4.8
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Chase's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
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 Travel℠.
$1200
Offer valuation
We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program, showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.
1x - 5x
Rewards rate
5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠. 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries. 2x on all other travel purchases. 1x on all other purchases.
Annual fee
Regular APR
2024 Bankrate Awards Winner
Best for dining and entertainment
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Capital One's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
1% - 8%
Rewards rate
8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply) 3% Cash Back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®) 1% Cash Back on all other purchases
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best No Annual Fee Card Offers
Best starter rewards card
Rating: 3.8 stars out of 5
3.8
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Capital One's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
1.5% - 5%
Rewards rate
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
Annual fee
Regular APR
BEST FOR GAS AND TRANSIT
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Wells Fargo's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.
$200
Offer valuation
We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program, showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.
1X - 3X
Rewards rate
Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Earn 1X points on other purchases
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best Travel Card Offers
2024 Bankrate Awards Winner
BEST FOR NO-FRILLS BENEFITS
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Capital One's secure site
Excellent(740–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
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
$1275
Offer valuation
We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program, showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.
2 Miles - 10 Miles
Rewards rate
10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel 5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
Annual fee
Regular APR
BEST FOR Flexible travel redemption
Rating: 4.9 stars out of 5
4.9
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Capital One's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
New Venture cardholders can earn 75,000 miles once they spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
$1275
Offer valuation
We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program, showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.
2 Miles - 5 Miles
Rewards rate
5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best Business Credit Card Offers
Recent Offer Change
Best business card with no annual fee
Rating: 4.4 stars out of 5
4.4
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Chase's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
Earn $350 when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months after account opening.
$750
Offer valuation
We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program, showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.
1% - 5%
Rewards Rate
Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best flat-rate cash back business card
Rating: 4.7 stars out of 5
4.7
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Capital One's secure site
Excellent(740–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
$1,200 cash back once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months
$1200
Offer valuation
We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program, showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.
2% - 5%
Rewards Rate
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel Earn unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best Airlines Card Offers
Best starter airline card
Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Chase's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
$750
Offer valuation
We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program, showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.
1X - 2X
Rewards rate
Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming. Earn 2X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best for companion certificate
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
4.5
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Bank of America's secure site
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
Get 70,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
$770
Offer valuation
We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program, showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.
1 mile - 3 miles
Rewards rate
Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. Earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best Hotels Credit Card Offers
Best no-annual-fee hotel card
Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on American Express's secure site
See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
Earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 4/17/24.
$600
Offer valuation
We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program, showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.
3X - 7X
Rewards rate
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio. Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations. Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best Card Offer for Excellent Credit
Best for luxury perks
Rating: 4.8 stars out of 5
4.8
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on American Express's secure site
See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
$1600
Offer valuation
We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program, showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.
5X - 5X
Rewards rate
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best Card Offer for Good Credit
2024 Bankrate Awards Winner
Best for food and travel
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on American Express's secure site
See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
Good to Excellent(670–850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
$1200
Offer valuation
We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program, showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.
3X - 4X
Rewards rate
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X). Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best Card Offer for Fair Credit
Best for upgrading
Rating: 4.2 stars out of 5
4.2
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Capital One's secure site
Fair to Good(580–740)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
N/A
Intro offer
Intro offer is not available for this Capital One credit card.
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best Student Card Offer
2024 Bankrate Awards Winner
Best for students with no credit history
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Discover's secure site
No Credit History
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
Intro offer
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.
1% - 5%
Rewards Rate
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.
Annual fee
Regular APR
Best Card Offer for No Credit History
Best for low-cost credit building
Rating: 4.2 stars out of 5
4.2
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Chime's secure site
No Credit History
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
N/A
Intro offer
Intro offer is not available for this Chime credit card.
Annual fee
N/A
Regular APR
Best Card Offer for Bad Credit
Best credit limit policy
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
on Capital One's secure site
No Credit History
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Recommended Credit
N/A
Intro offer
Intro offer is not available for this Capital One credit card.
Annual fee
Regular APR
Compare Bankrate's best credit cards of 2024
| Card name | Our pick for | Card highlights | Bankrate Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2% cash rewards + Best overall | Unlimited 2% cash rewardson purchases No annual fee | 4.3 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Wells Fargo's secure site |
| Cash back on everyday spending | 3% cash backat U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and U.S. online retail purchases of up to $6,000 per calendar year in purchases in each category(then 1%) Yearly credits: Up to $84 toward Disney Bundle streaming ($7 monthly credits after a $9.99+ subscription payment with enrolled card) and up to $180 toward Home Chef meal kits (up to $15 per month for auto-renewing subscription with enrolled card) No annual fee | 4.6 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on American Express's secure site See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply |
| Balance transfers with excellent credit | 0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers (within the first four months) and for 12 months on purchases (18.24% to 28.99% variable APR thereafter; 5% balance transfer fee, $5 minimum) Citi Easy Deals, Citi Flex Loans and Citi Entertainment may help save money on eligible purchases, event tickets and alternative payment plans No annual fee | 4.1 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Citi's secure site |
| Long intro APR | 0% intro APRfor 21 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers(within the first 120 days)and purchases(18.24%, 24.74%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter; 5% balance transfer fee, $5 minimum) My Wells Fargo Deals can offer cash rewards No annual fee | 4.3 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Wells Fargo's secure site |
| Travel card beginners | 5X mileson hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel 1.25X mileson all purchases No annual fee | 4.1 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Capital One's secure site |
| Long-term value | 5 percent cash back on travel booked through Chase Travel 3 percent cash back on dining and drugstore purchases 1.5 percent cash back on all other purchases No annual fee | 5.0 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Chase's secure site |
| Valuable rewards | 3X pointson online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs), dining (including eligible delivery services) and select streaming services 5X points on Chase Travel℠ and Lyft Rides (Lyft offer through March 31, 2025) 2X pointson other travel 25% point value boosttoward Chase Ultimate Rewards travel redemption Yearly bonus points and credits: $50 annual hotel stay credit and 10% back on your previous year's total combined spending points $95 annual fee | 4.8 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Chase's secure site |
| Dining and entertainment | 10% cash backon Uber and Uber Eats purchases (through Nov. 14, 2024) 8% cash backon Capital One Entertainment purchases 5% cash backon hotels and rental cars through Capital One Travel 3% cash backon dining, entertainment, select streaming services and grocery store purchases (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target) No annual fee | 5.0 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Capital One's secure site |
| Starter rewards card | 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars through Capital One Travel Unlimited 1.5% cash backon all purchases Cash back can be automatically redeemedat set time period or cash value No annual fee | 3.8 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Capital One's secure site |
| Gas and transit | 3X pointson restaurant, travel, gas station, transit, popular streaming service and phone plan purchases No annual fee | 4.1 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Wells Fargo's secure site |
| No-frills benefits | 10X mileson hotel and rental car bookings through Capital One Travel 5X mileson flights through Capital One Travel 2X mileson all other purchases Annual $300 Capital One Travel credit and 10,000 account anniversary bonus milescan help offset part of the annual fee $395 annual fee | 5.0 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Capital One's secure site |
| Flexible travel redemption | 5X mileson hotels and rental cars through Capital One Travel 2X mileson all other purchases Flexible milescan be redeemed for statement credits toward eligible travel purchases within the last 90 days $95 annual fee | 4.9 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Capital One's secure site |
| Business card with no annual fee | 5% cash backat office supply stores, internet, cable and phone services (on the first $25,000 in combined purchases each year, then 1%) 2% cash backat gas stations and restaurants (on the first $25,000 in combined purchases each year, then 1%) No annual fee | 4.4 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Chase's secure site |
| Flat-rate cash back business card | Unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel Unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase $150 annual fee (refunded every year you spend $150,000 with the card) | 4.7 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Capital One's secure site |
| Starter airline card | 2X points on Southwest purchases; Southwest hotel and car rental partners; local transit and commuting (including ride-shares); internet, cable, phone and select streaming services Southwest perks, including 3,000 annual bonus points on the account anniversary, two annual EarlyBird Check-In® boardings, first two checked bags free, 25% discount on in-flight purchases and more $69 annual fee | 4.3 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Chase's secure site |
| Companion certificate | 3X mileson Alaska Airlines purchases 2X mileson eligible gas, cable, streaming services and local transit purchases Earn Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™each account anniversary after spending at least $6,000 within the prior anniversary year $95 annual fee | 4.5 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Bank of America's secure site |
| No-annual-fee hotel card | 7X pointson eligible hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio 5X pointsat U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and U.S. restaurants 3X pointson all other purchases Complimentary Hilton Honors Silver Status No annual fee | 4.3 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on American Express's secure site See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply |
| Luxury perks | 5X pointson directly-booked airfare and flights and prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 spent on flights per calendar year) 2X pointson prepaid car rentals, vacation packages and cruise reservations through American Express Travel Offers one of the most valuable lists of travel perks available, including around $1,700 of recurring monthly and annual credits plus comprehensive airport lounge access $695 annual fee | 4.8 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on American Express's secure site See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply |
| Food and travel | 4X pointson restaurant, eligible delivery in the U.S. (including Uber Eats) and U.S. supermarket purchases (on up to $25,000 in purchases per year, then 1X points) 3X pointson flights booked directly with airlines or via American Express Travel Up to $240 in annual dining and Uber Eats delivery credits(up to $10 of both dining credits and Uber Cash, provided as monthly credits toward eligible purchases; Uber Cash expires at the end of the month) $250 annual fee | 5.0 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on American Express's secure site See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply |
| Upgrading | Could be available with fair creditwithout a security deposit Considered for a credit limit increaseafter an account review starting after six months No annual fee | 4.2 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Capital One's secure site |
| Students with no credit history | 5% cash back on activated rotating categories each quarter (on up to $1,500 in purchases per quarter, then 1%) Automatic Cashback Matchfor all rewards earned at the end of your first year Low rates and fees, including no foreign transaction fees, penalty APR or late fee on the first late payment (up to $41 after that) No annual fee | 5.0 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Discover's secure site |
| Low-cost credit building | No credit check required Low rates and fees, including no foreign cash advance fees or late payment fees Potential $10,000 secured credit limit No annual fee | 4.2 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Chime's secure site |
| Credit limit policy | A security deposit as low as $49($49, $99 or $200, based on creditworthiness) that provides at least a $200 credit limit Considered for a credit limit increaseafter an account review starting after six months No annual fee | 4.1 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Capital One's secure site |
What are credit cards and how do they work?
A credit cardis a financial product similar to a personal line of credit that lets you make purchases now, but pay for them later. When you’re approved for a credit card, you get a credit limit that determines the maximum dollar amount you can charge to your card. As you make purchases, your available credit decreases. When you pay your bill, your available credit increases.
With a credit card, you can carry a balance from month to month, meaning you can make a partial or minimum payment rather than paying your balance in full. The downside to carrying a balance is facing potential interest charges determined by your credit card’s APR, or annual percentage rate. Your credit card’s APR is effectively the cost of borrowing money. Remember, credit card interest is relevant only if you carry credit card debt from month to month, and it’s best to pay your balance on time and in full whenever possible.
Learn more:Should you get a credit card?
Credit card rewards programs are another major advantage of credit cards. Cards typically earn one of three types of rewards: cash back, travel miles or points.
- Cash back is the simplest form of rewards. You earn back a percentage of your purchase cost, so if your card earns 3 percent back in a certain category, spending $100 in that category would net you $3 in cash back.
- Credit card points and miles work similarly, but the value of points and miles varies based on how they’re redeemed. Miles are generally best used to book travel (typically airfare) while points may offer more flexibility, allowing you to redeem for different types of travel as well as cash back.
Learn more:How to maximize your rewards' value
Pros and cons of credit cards
Credit cards can be a great way to manage your money and make sure you pay your bills on time — but the problem is that they’re also very easy to misuse. Because of this, you should be aware of some of the benefits and drawbacks of owning a credit card.
Pros
Earn rewards and enjoy perks. Rewards card programs and perks like bonus statement credits can help you save money on travel, dining and other big expenses.
Build your credit score. Using a credit card responsibly is one of the best ways to establish and improve your credit score as long as you consistently pay on time and keep your balance low.
Financial flexibility and extra protection. A credit card even offers peace of mind when you pay for goods and services. It comes with strong consumer protections to ensure safe transactions and guard against identity theft.
Consolidate debt and pause interest. A card with a 0 percent intro APR on purchases and balance transfers can give you time to pay off new purchases and consolidated debt from other cards or loans.
Help others establish credit. If you have children or other loved ones who need help building (or rebuilding) their credit score, you can add them as authorized users on your card so they can build credit without the hassle of opening their own (and earn you extra rewards).
Cons
You could face high interest rates. Credit card interest rates are higher than other types of loans or credit accounts, so paying off credit card debt could become costlier than installment loan interest.
You could get into debt. Spending more on your credit card than you can pay off before the end of each billing cycle could pile expensive interest charges onto your balance and compound into snowballing debt.
Your credit score can drop with irresponsible use. Improper card use could damage your credit profile and lead to higher loan interest rates and insurance premiums or trouble getting a job or finding housing.
You may take on fees. Even the best credit cards can come with a variety of fees, though you can avoid many of these with responsible card use. Some will have fees for foreign transactions or annual fees for perks that you don't need or use.
How to choose a credit card
Choosing the best credit card all comes down to which card is going to provide you with the most value based on your financial situation, spending habits and more. Think about these questions when a credit card offer catches your eye:
What’s your credit score?
The better your credit score, the better your chance of qualifying for a credit card with excellent perks and terms. Check your credit score before applying for a new card, and, if your credit score isn’t where you’d like it to be, work on improving your credit.
Are you looking to pay off debt or upcoming purchases?
If you only need 12 to 15 months to pay off your balance, a no-annual-fee rewards card with a short intro APR period may be your best choice long term. Otherwise, cards designed specifically for balance transfers or financing new purchases will be a better fit since they tend to offer 0 percent APR periods of 18 to 21 months.
It’s best to pay your balance in full each month so you avoid paying interest, but a card with a low interest rate or alternate payment plan may be wise if you think you may need extra time to pay off unexpected purchases after intro zero-interest APRs typically end. Low-interest cards tout APRs that are lower than the average credit card interest rate, which has been hovering around a high 20 percent.
What are your spending habits?
Start your research by deciding what type of rewards you’d like to earn: cash back, points or miles. If your spending is concentrated in certain categories — like groceries, dining or travel — look for a card that carries a high rewards rate on those purchases. If you don’t spend a lot in one particular category, consider a card that earns rewards at a flat rate on all purchases.
Flat-rate rewards cards typically offer a maximum of 2 percent cash back or 2X miles on purchases, while cards with rotating or year-round bonus categories can offer anywhere from 2 percent to 6 percent back on certain purchases (sometimes with a few restrictions on how much you can earn).
Can you earn a sign-up bonus?
Many credit cards carry a sign-up bonus for new cardholders. No-annual-fee rewards cards typically offer sign-up bonuses worth $200 to $250 after you spend $500 to $1,000 in the first three months. Meanwhile, premium rewards cards generally offer bonuses worth $500 to $800 after you spend $4,000 to $6,000 in your first three or six months. Business cards often offer even more valuable sign-up bonuses with a bigger spending requirement to match.
Don’t know where to start? Check out
Bankrate’s Spender Type Tool
What type of credit card should you get?
Credit card issuers offer different types of credit cards to meet a variety of consumer needs. For example, some cardholders don’t see the appeal of a premium travel card or won’t use the card enough to justify its annual fee, while others may primarily use their card while traveling abroad. The former type of cardholder would likely benefit from a no-annual-fee card, while the latter would benefit from a no-foreign-transaction-fee card with plenty of travel features.
But there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all credit card, and the sheer number of options can make it difficult to choose a credit card that’s best for your unique situation. That’s why it’s good to consider which card best matches your spending habits.
Here are the major credit card types and the ideal cardholder they’re suited for:
Here’s how Bankrate experts chose their rewards card
With all of this advice in mind, let’s see how a credit card expert made their pick. Here’s Bankrate writer and credit card reviewer Garrett Yarbrough on how he chose his primary rewards card:
Although I knew which cards carried the highest rewards rates, most impressive sign-up bonuses and most valuable perks, I started my search by considering what I wanted most out of my card. I knew I wanted a versatile card that could reward my biggest expenses and remain a valuable staple in my rewards strategy even after I added more cards to my wallet.
APRs weren’t a huge concern since I already had a low-interest card from my credit union and I avoid carrying a balance. So I focused on rewards. While a cash back card would be a good fit, I didn’t want to close the door to more valuable travel rewards and transfer partners in the future.
My biggest expenses tend to be bills and everyday purchases like groceries, gas and dining, but I also shop at Walmart and online in a rush. I love to cook, too, so I’d probably lean on a card with a grocery rewards category more than one with a restaurant category. On paper, my spending habits meant a card with a high rewards rate at grocery stores would be helpful. But in practice, I’d likely rack up more rewards with a flat-rate card. Knowing I wanted a future-proof, flat-rate rewards card with diverse redemption options and plenty of pairing opportunities helped me quickly narrow my search to the Chase Freedom Unlimited.
Although it doesn’t carry the highest flat cash back rate, its combination of both 1.5 percent back on general purchases and 3 percent back on dining and drugstore purchases gives it an extra layer of rewards value.
Down the road, I can even boost the value of the Freedom Unlimited card’s rewards by adding the Chase Sapphire Preferred to my wallet and redeeming points for travel. I can also shore up my rewards earning with the categories from a card like the Capital One SavorOne or Blue Cash Everyday.
Until then, the Freedom Unlimited gives me a stellar foundation on which to build my rewards strategy.
— Garrett Yarbrough — Writer, Credit Cards
Expert Insights: What is the best credit card of 2024?
While no one card will be “the best” for everyone, there may be a clear “best credit card” for you based on your goals, spending habits, credit score and more. Perhaps the closest answer to the objective “best credit cards” and issuers are listed below, based on extensive research data from experts at Bankrate and J.D. Power.
How to get a credit card
Once you’ve decided which credit card is best suited for your needs, it’s finally time to apply for your new card. You’ll have the best approval odds if you pursue a card that welcomes applicants with your credit score or if you’ve received a prequalified card offer.
Although it’s straightforward on paper, here’s a bit more information to guide you through how to apply for a credit card and get approved:
Our data: Which cards get the most applications?
Below, we’ve listed Bankrate’s three most popular credit card offers, based on how frequently our visitors applied for them in 2023 compared to other cards that appeared on a “Best of” page in the same category (cash back, travel, business, balance transfer, etc.).
Cash back
Most applications:
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Discover it® Cash Back
Travel
Most applications:
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
Balance Transfer
Most applications:
Discover it® Balance Transfer
Wells Fargo Reflect® Card
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Zero Interest
Most applications:
Discover it® Cash Back
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Fair Credit
Most applications:
Capital One Platinum Credit Card
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Discover it® Student Cash Back
Bad Credit
Most applications:
Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
Mission Lane® Visa Credit Card
Self - Credit Builder Account with Secured Visa® Credit Card
Students
Most applications:
Discover it® Student Cash Back
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
Business
Most applications:
Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
Capital One Spark Miles for Business
What people say about the best credit cards
Because people have many options when looking for their next credit card, reading current cardholders' experiences can be helpful. We reviewed the most useful comments on the best credit cards from online forums and discussion boards, vetted this information to ensure accuracy, and curated the highlights here.
In the News: Roughly 1 in 7 Americans’ top financial regret is taking on too much credit card debt
In a Bankrate study, 15 percent of U.S. adults say their biggest financial regret is taking on too much credit card debt. Read more about the results in the full Bankrate survey or hear from our experts on Bankrate's tips and tricks for paying down credit card debt.
Learn more:Your New Year’s credit card debt payoff plan
Have more questions for our credit cards editors? Feel free to send us an email, find us on Facebook, or Tweet us @Bankrate.
Frequently asked questions
How we assess the best credit cards
250+
cards rated
50+
rewards programs valued
5000
data points analyzed
40+
perks evaluated
When evaluating the best credit cards, we take into account several factors, including how cards score in our proprietary card rating system and whether they offer features that fit the priorities of a diverse group of cardholders, from earning rewards to saving on interest. Whenever possible, we also feature cards that are available at various credit levels and price points.
We analyzed over 250 of the most popular credit cards in each of our primary card scoring categories, including Cash Back, Rewards, Balance Transfer, Low Interest, Business, Credit-Building, and Student, as well as in a few popular subcategories like Travel, No Annual Fee, Airline and Hotel.
We scored each card based on the factors most relevant to its primary category, including its rewards rate, estimated annual earnings, intro APR period length, ongoing APR, fees, perks and more to determine whether it belonged in this month’s roundup.
Here are some of the key factors that we considered:
The information about theU.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.
Ask the experts: What is the best feature you look for in a credit card?
Erica Sandberg
Contributor, Credit Cards
I gravitate to the perks the credit card offers. For example, I have a United℠ Explorer Card. It's great for the miles, and since there is a United Airlines hub in San Francisco, where I live, I tend to fly with them frequently. But the perks are where it really stands out.The “basic” United fare is substantially less than other classes, but you have to pay for overhead and checked baggage. Since this card offers complimentary checked bags, I come out ahead. I get the cheapest airfare plus free bag check! These are the kind of things I recommend that people look for when they're considering new credit cards — perks that make your life easier and save you money.
Garrett YarbroughWriter, Credit Cards
Bankrate expert Garrett Yarbrough strives to make navigating credit cards and credit building smooth sailing for his readers. After regularly featuring his credit card,…
Nouri ZarrughSenior Editor, Credit Cards
Nouri Zarrugh is a writer and editor for CreditCards.com and Bankrate, focusing on product news, guides and reviews. His areas of expertise include credit card strategy, rewards…
* See the online application for details about terms and conditions for these offers. Every reasonable effort has been made to maintain accurate information. However all credit card information is presented without warranty. After you click on the offer you desire you will be directed to the credit card issuer's web site where you can review the terms and conditions for your selected offer.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, is accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the bank’s website for the most current information.
