Guide to Top Cash Back and Rewards Credit Cards

When it comes to cash-back credit cards, it pays to do your research. Using the right cash-back card strategically can earn you hundreds of dollars a year and thousands of dollars over time. However, the best choice isn’t always obvious.

Cash-back cards earn rewards at different rates, and the fees and benefits vary widely. Some cash-back cards have no annual fee, while others offer bonus spending categories that reward you for specific types of purchases.

When choosing a cash-back card, consider:

• The different types of cash-back cards
• The annual fee and benefits
• Your own spending habits and credit card needsBest cash-back credit cards

Best for 0%-APR offer: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

This card offers unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases and a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months. It has no annual fee and provides a 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers.

Best for flat-rate cash back: Citi Double Cash® Card

Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. There’s no annual fee, and it offers a 0% intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers.

Best for no annual fee: Chase Freedom Unlimited®

This card offers tiered cash back rewards, including 5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% on all other purchases. It also features a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.

Best for average credit: Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase. While it has a $39 annual fee, it’s accessible for those with average credit.

Best for students: Discover it® Student Cash Back

Students can earn 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (up to quarterly maximum when activated) and 1% on all other purchases. Discover will match all cash back earned at the end of the first year.

Best for rotating bonus categories: Chase Freedom Flex®

This card offers 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (up to $1,500 in combined purchases), 5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1% on all other purchases.Types of cash-back credit cards:

1. Flat-rate cash-back cards: Offer the same amount of cash back on all purchases.
2. Bonus rewards cash-back cards: Offer extra rewards on select purchases, such as gas, groceries, dining, and travel.
3. Rotating category cash-back cards: Offer higher cash-back rates on certain categories that change every month or quarter.

How to choose a cash-back credit card:

1. Consider the annual fee
2. Evaluate 0% APR offers
3. Review your spending habits

How to compare cash-back credit cards:

1. List desired benefits and deal-breakers
2. Compare cards side-by-side based on your criteria
3. Consider ease of use (e.g., bonus activation requirements)

Making the most of your card:

1. Familiarize yourself with card benefits and fees
2. Set up autopay to ensure on-time payments
3. Understand redemption options
4. Optimize usage if you have multiple cards

By carefully considering your options and spending habits, you can choose a cash-back credit card that maximizes your rewards and fits your financial needs.