Are you one looking to earn more rewards on your everyday purchases? A rewards credit card might be the best tool to help you earn points, miles, or cash back on your spending.
There are so many options so you might get confused. To help you find the best reward card for your needs we have picked 11 best rewards credit cards in the USA, including their key benefits, rewards categories, and eligibility requirements.
If you’re a frequent traveler, a savvy shopper, or a small business owner, there is a rewards card for you that can help you reach your financial goals.
Let’s find the perfect card for you together.
Table of Contents
What are Rewards Credit Cards?
There are many types of credit cards available in the USA. Rewards credit cards are one of them. These are financial tools that give incentives in terms of points or cash back to the card holders. Using the right type of credit card, you can win perks against your day-to-day expenditure. The rewards are typically points you can redeem at a supermarket, online shopping stores, flight bookings, and the list goes on. Different types of rewards are:
Points: You win points against every purchase, which you can keep collecting to redeem later for shopping or dining.
Miles: These are associated with travel. You can redeem your miles while making flight bookings or for car rentals.
Cash Back: Some percentage off on your purchases, which is reflected directly in your bank account.
There can be other reward kinds that many credit card providers offer. You can always check with your issuing body to understand the rewards you will get.
Eligibility to opt for Rewards Credit Cards in the USA
Though getting the best rewards credit cards sounds like a deal with plenty of perks, it is not available for anyone and everyone. You have to quality certain eligibility criteria to be able to get your desired credit card and enjoy the rewards it offers.
In the USA, your eligibility for rewards credit cards depends on several factors. While specific criteria will vary for different card issuers, here are the generic considerations that everyone should qualify for.
Credit Score
The primary eligibility for a rewards credit card is a promising credit score. Your card issuer will check and analyze your creditworthiness and then decide whether you can get the card. Generally, a higher credit score multiplies your chances of getting a premium rewards card.
Credit History
Your credit history is another significant factor that counts in your eligibility. The issuer will look into your payment history, loans, mortgages, previous credit card payments, and more.
Income
Any financial body issuing a credit card would ensure that the applicant has a stable income. This will give them the assurance of timely repayments. So, higher income is directly proportional to higher credit limits and attractive rewards against your credit card.
Existing Relationship with the Issuer
Some financial institutes prioritize existing customers while offering rewards cards, especially if they have a positive relationship in banking before.
Legal Age and Residency
Applicants must be at least 18 years old (or 21, depending on the state) and legally reside in the United States to apply for a credit card.
Other than these factors, the issuer may consider other factors such as employment status, housing status, and recent credit inquiries when assessing eligibility. It is advisable to talk to your card issuing body and learn about the eligibility before applying for any card.
11 Best Rewards Credit Cards in the USA
Let us give you a detailed look at the best rewards credit cards with excellent offers. This guide will help you choose the relevant option according to your requirements.
Note: Before applying please confirm details on the issuer’s website.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
It is well-suited for those who travel frequently and dine out often. Its sign-up bonus is promising, the rewards rate on travel and dining are excellent and have a flexible redemption option. Additionally, the card’s travel and purchase protections add significant value for cardholders who want to travel peacefully.
Earn 60,000 bonus points once you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
This card offers a versatile travel rewards card that appeals to frequent travelers and those who prefer a simple, high-earning rewards structure. The flexibility in redeeming miles for travel and the ability to transfer miles to multiple travel loyalty programs enhance its appeal.
You can earn up to $1,000 in travel bonuses with Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
American Express Gold Card
It is one of the most preferred options in the list of rewards Credit Cards in the USA. It is great for dining and groceries as you earn membership rewards at restaurants and supermarkets.
You can earn 90,000 Membership Rewards Points once you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases in the first 6 months
Discover it Cash Back
This card is a popular choice for those looking to maximize their cash-back rewards, particularly with its rotating quarterly categories and the unique Cashback Match feature. It is apt for rotating bonus categories.
Get an unlimited dollar-for-dollar match of all the cash back you earn at the end of your first year
Wells Fargo Active Cash Card
Another card on the list of best rewards credit cards is the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card. It is known for its simple approach and straightforward redemption system. The best feature of this card is zero liability protection. It means you are not responsible for any unauthorized transaction if your card gets lost or stolen.
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus when you spend $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
This card is specifically designed for those who enjoy dining out and often splurge on entertainment sources. It offers you various rewards related to rental car booking, hotels, and other sources of entertainment.
Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services & at grocery stores
Chase Freedom Unlimited
If you wish to pair your credit card with another option from the best rewards credit cards in the USA, you can opt for Chase Freedom Unlimited. It is well-regarded for its simplicity in earning cash back on all purchases and its valuable introductory offers. It’s the best option for you if you want to earn rewards without paying an annual fee.
Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
The Platinum Card from American Express
It falls in the range of premium rewards credit cards in the USA that offer luxury perks. You can avail of lounge access, airline fee credit, resort programs, and all other premium rewards through this card. So, if you value or seek luxury, this could be an excellent option.
Earn 125,000 Membership Rewards Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your Card in first 6 months of Card Membership.
U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card
It is known for its customizable cash-back rewards program, allowing cardholders to earn cash back on categories they choose. You can earn 5% cash back on one category and 2% on the other. It is ideal for individuals who want to maximize cash-back rewards by choosing categories that align with their spending habits. Its customizable nature and lack of annual fees make it a practical choice for earning rewards on everyday purchases.
You can earn 90,000 Membership Rewards Points once you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases in the first 6 months
Citi Premier Card
This Card is ideal for frequent travelers and diners who want to earn points on travel and dining purchases, with the flexibility to redeem points for various rewards, including travel and cash-back options. Its robust rewards structure and travel benefits make it a competitive choice in the premium travel rewards credit card market.
Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months.
Bilt World Elite Mastercard
The Bilt World Elite Mastercard is designed to appeal to renters who want to earn rewards against rent payments and other spending. It also provides benefits and prestige associated with a World Elite Mastercard. It’s attractive for those who prioritize earning rewards on housing expenses and may benefit from the additional perks and protections offered by the World Elite Mastercard program.
Earn up to 100,000 points Each calendar year on rent, travel, dining and more.
These are the best rewards credit cards buyers in the USA prefer the most. For better clarity, refer to the comparison table below to evaluate which card would be best for you.
If you are a student then you might think are there any credit cards for students that offer great rewards? There are many credit cards for students with great rewards. These student credit cards allow them to establish credit.
Detailed Comparison of 11 Best Rewards Credit Cards in the USA
| Card Name | Sign-Up Bonus | Annual Fee | Rewards |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred Card | 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months | $95 | Earn 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards Earn 3X points on dining, streaming services, and online grocery. |
| Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months | $95 | Unlimited 2X Miles 5X Miles on Hotels and Rental Cars |
| American Express Gold Card | Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $4,000 on eligible purchases within the first 6 months | $295 | 4X Membership Rewards points at restaurants and US supermarkets Earn 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines |
| Discover it Cash Back | 5% cash back on category purchases | No annual fee | Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases 1% cash back on all other purchases. |
| Wells Fargo Active Cash Card | Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months | No Annual Fee | Earn 2% cash rewards on all purchases with no categories to track or limit on how much you can earn. |
| Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card | Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first 3 months | No Annual Fee | Earn 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and at grocery stores 1% cash back on all other purchases |
| Chase Freedom Unlimited | Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase. | No Annual Fee | Often includes a promotional 0% APR Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase |
| The Platinum Card from American Express | Earn 10000 referral bonus points. | The card has a significant annual fee, which is typically offset by its extensive benefits and rewards structure. | 24/7 access to concierge service for travel and lifestyle needs No Foreign Transaction Fees |
| U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card | Typically, the card offers a sign-up bonus after meeting spending requirements in the first few months of card membership | No Annual Fee | Earn 5% cash back on two categories of your choice 2% cash back on one everyday category |
| Citi Premier Card | Typically, the card offers a generous sign-up bonus after meeting spending requirements in the first few months of card membership. | $95 | 3 points per $1 spent at supermarkets, gas stations, and restaurants 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchase |
| Bilt World Elite Mastercard | There is no welcome bonus but you can earn 2,500 points for referring new cardholders. | $0* | Cardholders earn Bilt Rewards points on rent payments made through the Bilt Rewards platform. Access to Mastercard World Elite concierge service for travel and lifestyle assistance. |
Conclusion
After learning about and reviewing the list of best Rewards Credit Cards in the USA, you certainly know that there are plenty of options available. Thus, choosing the right card can get overwhelming.
However, once you have done a thorough research and picked the best card that aligns with your requirements, your benefits will be maximized. You can get a tailor-made plan that lets you enjoy a lavish lifestyle and offers countless rewards in return.
Whether you prioritize travel or entertainment, you can explore this list and choose the card that offers relevant rewards. So, make the well-informed and well-researched decision to enjoy a financially supportive credit card that brings additional perks.
