It is exciting to get cash back on every purchase, and if you choose the right medium, you can make significant savings on your shopping. There are cash back credit cards in the USA offering rewards in the form of cash back into your account every time you shop through the card.
This way, you get a discount even when there are no offers going on at the stores! These credit cards are valid for use in grocery stores, e-commerce websites, bill payments, and gas.
The only challenge you might face while exploring the best cash back credit cards is the overwhelming number of options. You will find countless issuing bodies offering cards that are one better than the other.
So, it might get challenging to find one that aligns with your financial requirements and spending patterns. In this article, we will discuss what cash back credit cards are and share a list of options that you can consider.
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What are Cash Back Credit Cards?
These are a type of credit card that gives some percentage of the total purchase amount back to the customer. The percentage varies for different credit cards; this information is shared with you before you apply for it.
These cards are popular amongst people in the USA as they offer a tangible and straightforward benefit every time you spend through the card. Some of the reasons you should consider applying for cash back credit cards in the USA are:
- Smooth and easy-to-understand reward system, unlike other cards that offer points or miles.
- You can use the cash you earn for anything, making it a versatile reward.
- Besides cashback, these cards may offer other benefits such as purchase protection, extended warranties, and travel insurance.
It is significant to note that while some credit cards offer flat 2% cash back on every purchase, others might have different percentages for varied shopping types.
Benefits of choosing Cash Back Credit Cards Cards in the USA
The best cash back credit cards offer a host of benefits related to your financial management and enhance your overall shopping experience. Let us share some of the common benefits you can enjoy, irrespective of the card you pick.
Direct Rewards
Cashback credit cards offer direct rewards in the form of a percentage off in your account. You can cash in your account, which you are free to use for any purpose.
Simplicity and Transparency
These cards are easy to understand as there is no complication involved like in miles credit cards or other reward options. Moreover, cash back offers immediate value, and you can see it as a monetary perk you can redeem without any elaborate process.
No Annual Fees
These cards are one of the most cost-effective options with zero annual fees. So, you can enjoy alluring discounts without incurring any additional cost.
Category-Based Rewards
You can enjoy category-based rewards. For example, you may get higher cash back for categories like travel or groceries, making it possible for you to earn more based on your spending habits.
Additional Rewards
There are credit card options that offer additional benefits along with cash back. So, you may get some percentage off and additional rewards, like a free pass to a concert with certain credit cards in this category.
There are countless other benefits that cash back credit cards offer. You only have to ensure picking the one that complies with your financial goals.
Do you know how many types of credit cards are in the USA? We have a dedicated article on the type of credit cards in the USA.
Top 11 Cash Back Credit Cards in the USA
Chase Freedom Flex℠
It is an excellent choice for people who want a versatile reward option with diverse earning opportunities. The high cashback rates are available in categories like travel, dining, drugstore, and more. The best part is that there is no annual fee involved, and you will get a generous sign-up bonus.
Key Features
- You get $800 per claim and $1000 every year for cell phone protection that secures your phone against damage or theft.
- It offers the flexibility of redemption in the form of cash back, gift cards or more.
- It also covers new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $500 per claim and $50,000 per account.
Citi® Double Cash Card
This card is apt for those who prefer a simple, no-fuss rewards structure. You get a consistent 2% cash back on all purchases, zero annual fee, and flexible redemption options making it a valuable addition for anyone. Whether you want to earn cash back on everyday spending or pay off a balance with an introductory APR offer, this card delivers reliable value.
Key Features
- It offers a minimum redemption option. You can redeem your cash back in increments of $25.
- You get 0% intro APR on balance transfers for the first 18 months.
- This card covers your new purchases against damage or theft for 90 days (up to $1,000 per item, $50,000 per year).
Discover it® Cash Back.
The Discover it® Cash Back card is an optimum option for people who can benefit from rotating 5% cash back categories. There is no annual fee involved, and you can enjoy flexible redemption options. You can make the most out of this card’s benefits by strategically planning your spending to align with the quarterly categories.
Key Features
- You can freeze your card immediately in case you lose it to prevent any purchases.
- The card offers exclusive discounts and deals from known retailers through its online shopping portal.
- You have 0% fraud liability.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
It is a card from American Express that works as an excellent choice for individuals and families who spend heavily on groceries, streaming services, transit, and gas. It offers one of the highest cashback rates available in these categories. You will get substantial rewards through this card that can quickly offset the annual fee.
Key Features
- American Express provides advanced security measures and alerts to protect your account.
- You get exclusive access to ticket presales for events or concerts.
- You can also enjoy travel benefits, including car rental loss and damage insurance.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
It is ideal for those looking for flexibility in earning cashback according to their spending patterns. You have the freedom to choose your 3% category. Moreover, you get a generous sign-up bonus, zero annual fees, and other rewards with substantial value.
Key Features
- You can access your FICO® Score for free within Online Banking or your mobile banking app.
- You get shopping and travel protections, including features like purchase protection, extended warranty, and travel accident insurance.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
It is an excellent option for those seeking simple redemption and significant value in a cashback card. You get 2% cash back on all purchases and a generous sign-up bonus. Moreover, there is no annual fee involved, and you get consistent rewards without tracking spending categories.
Key Features
- It offers cell phone protection and flexible redemption options, making it a compelling choice for anyone looking to maximize their cashback earnings on everyday spending.
- You also get visa signature benefits, including perks like travel and emergency assistance services, and more.
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
If you frequently dine out, attend entertainment events, and shop at grocery stores, this card is certainly for you. It offers high cashback rates in these categories, a generous sign-up bonus and the best part is that there is no annual fee.
Key Features
- Access to Capital One Shopping which helps you save money while shopping online with available coupon codes and price comparisons.
- It doubles the original manufacturer’s warranty up to one additional year on eligible purchases made with your card.
Do you know how many rewards credit cards are in the USA? We have curated a list of the top 11 rewards credit cards in the USA for you so you can pick the best one for you.
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
It is one of the popular cash back credit cards in the USA, ideal for cardholders who want customized rewards that align with their spending habits. It offers customizable 5% and 2% cash back categories, zero annual fees, and additional benefits like introductory APR offers and Visa Signature perks.
Key Features
- Pay your monthly cell phone bill with your Card to get cell phone protection against damage or theft.
- U.S. Bank monitors your account for suspicious activity and provides $0 fraud liability for unauthorized transactions.
Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card
It is a must-have for frequent shoppers at Amazon online shop and Whole Foods Market. The card offers robust rewards with no annual fee and generous cashback rates on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases.
Key Features
- You get additional benefits like travel protections and a $100 Amazon.com gift card.
- Enjoy exclusive benefits such as concierge service, access to special events, and more under visa signature benefits.
Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Card
This card is for those who want to earn straightforward cash-back rewards that get directly deposited into their Fidelity investment accounts. There is no annual fee, and you get the utmost redemption simplicity and value. If you’re looking to earn rewards that contribute directly to your investments and financial goals, this card is for you.
Key Features
- You get purchase security and extended warranty protection on eligible purchases.
- You get travel and emergency assistance, including travel accident insurance, auto collision damage waiver, and emergency assistance services.
American Express Cash Magnet® Card
It is amongst the best cash back credit cards for those who want consistent cash back rewards on every purchase. You wouldn’t have to work on rotating categories or spending caps. If you prioritize simplicity and prefer earning cash back on all purchases, this card offers a compelling option.
Key Features
- American Express provides advanced security measures and alerts to protect your account.
- You get access to American Express benefits such as Global Assist® Hotline, Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance, and Entertainment Access.
Comparison Table for Best Cash Back Credit Cards in the USA
After knowing all the necessary details about the cash back credit card options, it is helpful to draw a comparison for better clarity. Refer to the table below if you are also planning to research a bit deeper.
| Card Name | Sign-Up Bonus | Rewards |
Chase Freedom Flex℠ | $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first 3 months. | 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories. 5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards® 3% on dining and drugstores, 1% on all other purchases. |
Citi® Double Cash Card | $200 welcome bonus by spending $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of opening your account. | 2% cash back on all purchases: 1% when you buy and 1% as you pay for those purchases |
Discover it® Cash Back | Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year. | 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places 1% cash back on all other purchases. |
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | $300 statement credit after spending $3,000 in purchases in the first 6 months. | 6% cash back on up to $6,000 per year in purchases at U.S. supermarkets (then 1%) 6% on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% on other purchases. |
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card | $200 online cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days. | 3% cash back in a category of your choice 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs 1% on all other purchases. |
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card | $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months. | Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases. |
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card | $200 cash bonus after spending $500 in the first 3 months. | 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and at grocery stores 1% on all other purchases. |
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card | $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days. | 5% cash back on the first $2,000 2% cash back on one everyday category 1% on all other purchases. |
Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card | Earn 10% back or more on select products with Prime Card Bonus. | 5% cash back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores 1% on all other purchases. |
Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Card | One-time award of $150 | 2% cash back on every eligible net purchase, deposited into an eligible Fidelity account. |
American Express Cash Magnet® Card | $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 in purchases in the first 6 months. | Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases. |
End Note
The top 11 cash back credit cards in the USA that we discussed cater to a variety of spending habits and financial goals. All these cards offer robust rewards, plenty of benefits, and redemption flexibility, making it apt for the cardholder.
From the unlimited 2% cash back of the Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Card to the targeted rewards at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market with the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card, every card has a unique advantage.
So, if you are also looking for the best cash back credit cards, refer to the list and choose a card that aligns with your spending habits and reward preferences.
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