Best Rewards Credit Cards of November [2023]

With so many rewards credit card options on the market, finding the right card for you can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, we’re here to help. We’ve done the legwork and identified the best rewards credit cards, depending on your habits and goals.

Here are 13 of the most valuable rewards cards and who they’re right for.

The best rewards credit cards

• Wells Fargo Active Cash^® Card
• Bank of America^® Travel Rewards credit card
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
• U.S. Bank Cash+^® Visa Signature^® Card
• Bank of America^® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card
• U.S. Bank Altitude^® Go Visa Signature^® Card
• Citi Premier^® Card
• Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card
• Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express
• The Platinum Card^® from American Express
• Citi Double Cash^® Card
• Chase Freedom Unlimited^®
• Ink Business Cash^® Credit Card
• Chase Freedom Flex℠
  

Lucrative, Flat-Rate Cash Rewards

Wells Fargo Active Cash^® Card

5.0

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Wells Fargo Active Cash^® Card

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Rates and fees

Current Offer

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

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards Rate

Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
• Intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
• $0 annual fee

Drawbacks

• Has foreign transaction fee
• No bonus categories

Card Details

• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
• $0 annual fee.
• No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.

Easy-to-Earn Unlimited Rewards

Bank of America^® Travel Rewards credit card

4.1

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Bank of America^® Travel Rewards credit card

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Annual Fee

$0

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases
• Earn 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases
• Longer intro APR on qualifying purchases and balance transfers
• No foreign transaction fees

Drawbacks

• Best for Bank of America customers

Card Details

• Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire.
• 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
• Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
• Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
• 0% Introductory APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 18.24% - 28.24% Variable APR will apply. A 3% fee applies to all balance transfers.
• If you're a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Awesome Rewards Rates + Intro APR

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

4.7

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

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Rates and fees

Current Offer

Limited Time Offer: Earn 30,000 bonus points when you spend $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $300 cash redemption value. You must select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards Rate

Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans; plus earn 1X points on other purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Limited Time Offer: Earn 30,000 bonus points when you spend $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $300 cash redemption value. You must select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer
• Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans; plus earn 1X points on other purchases
• Intro APR on purchases
• $0 annual fee

Drawbacks

• No intro APR on balance transfers

Card Details

• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Limited time offer: Earn 30,000 bonus points when you spend $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $300 cash redemption value.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• $0 annual fee.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Cash Back in Categories You Choose!

U.S. Bank Cash+^® Visa Signature^® Card

4.5

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

U.S. Bank Cash+^® Visa Signature^® Card

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Current Offer

Earn a $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards Rate

5% cash back on two categories you choose (up to $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter) and on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center; 2% cash back on one everyday category, like gas stations/EV charging stations, grocery stores, or restaurants; and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Earn a $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
• No annual fee
• Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
• Up to 5% cash back on eligible purchases

Drawbacks

• Has foreign transaction fee

Card Details

• $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening.
• 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose
• 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center
• 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants
• 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases
• 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 19.74 - 29.74%
• No Annual Fee
• Terms and conditions apply.

Unlimited 1.5% Cash Back on All Purchases

Bank of America^® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card

4.5

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Bank of America^® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card

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Annual Fee

$0

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Earn a $200 online cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days of account opening
• Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
• Long intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
• No annual fee

Drawbacks

• Has foreign transaction fee

Card Details

• $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
• If you're a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 1.87%-2.62% cash back on every purchase with Preferred Rewards.
• No annual fee.
• No limit to the amount of cash back you can earn and cash rewards don’t expire.
• 0% Introductory APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 18.24% - 28.24% Variable APR will apply. A 3% fee applies to all balance transfers.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Impressive Rewards on Food Delivery & Dining

U.S. Bank Altitude^® Go Visa Signature^® Card

4.2

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

U.S. Bank Altitude^® Go Visa Signature^® Card

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Current Offer

Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards Rate

4X points on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery; 2X points on grocery stores, grocery delivery, gas stations, streaming services, and EV charging stations; and 1X points on all other eligible purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Introductory APR offer on purchases and balance transfers
• Earn 4X points on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery
• No foreign transaction fees

Drawbacks

• No rewards on entertainment spending

Card Details

• Intro Offer: Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening. That's a $200 value redeemable towards merchandise, gift cards, cash back, travel and more.
• 4X points on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery.
• 2X points on streaming services. Plus, a $15 credit for annual streaming purchases like Netflix, Hulu, Spotify®, Apple Music, Disney+, HBO Max and more!
• 2X points at grocery stores, grocery delivery, gas stations, and EV charging stations
• 1X point on all other eligible purchases.
• 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR applies, currently 18.24% - 29.24%.
• No Annual Fee
• Points never expire
• Every Altitude® Go Visa Card is made with recycled plastic, helping to reduce the amount of plastic waste in the environment.
• Terms and conditions apply.

Earn Valuable Travel Points Even Faster

Citi Premier^® Card

4.9

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Citi Premier^® Card

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Rates and fees

Current Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening; Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024

Annual Fee

$95

Rewards Rate

3X points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel and hotels; and 1X points on all other purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening; Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024
• 3X points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel, and hotels
• $100 annual hotel savings benefit
• No foreign transaction fee

Drawbacks

• Has annual fee

Card Details

• Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Point per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024.
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Other Hotels
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Annual Hotel Savings Benefit
• 60,000 ThankYou® Points are redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases

Great for Flexible Travel Rewards

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

4.9

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

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Current Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Annual Fee

$95

Rewards Rate

5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®; 3X points on dining, select streaming services, and eligible online grocery purchases; 2X points on all other travel purchases, and 1X points per $1 on all other eligible purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
• 25% more value when redeeming rewards for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards
• 10% anniversary point bonus each year
• $50 annual credit on hotel stays booked through Ultimate Rewards
• Premium travel protection benefits

Drawbacks

• Has annual fee

Card Details

• 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 Ultimate Rewards®.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, and 2x on all other travel purchases, and $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC

Earn Cash Back Twice

Citi Double Cash^® Card

4.8

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Citi Double Cash^® Card

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Rates and fees

Current Offer

Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards Rate

2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases; plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases; plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24
• 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months, then 19.24% - 29.24% (Variable) APR
• No annual fee

Drawbacks

• Foreign transaction fee

Card Details

• Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
• Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24.
• Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
• Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
• If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
• There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).

Unlimited Cash Back

Chase Freedom Unlimited^®

4.7

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Chase Freedom Unlimited^®

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Current Offer

SPECIAL OFFER: Unlimited Matched Cash Back. Use your card for all your purchases and at the end of your first year, Chase will automatically match all the cash back you earned! There is no limit to how much you can earn. Every dollar in cash back rewards you earn is a dollar Chase will match

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards Rate

5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Unlimited matched cash back. Use your card for all your purchases and at the end of your first year, Chase will automatically match all the cash back you earned (there is no limit to how much you can earn; every dollar in cash back rewards you earn is a dollar Chase will match)
• Bonus rewards on eligible travel, dining, and drugstores
• No annual fee
• Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers

Drawbacks

• Has foreign transaction fee

Card Details

• SPECIAL OFFER: Unlimited Matched Cash Back. Use your card for all your purchases and at the end of your first year, Chase will automatically match all the cash back you earned! There is no limit to how much you can earn. Every dollar in cash back rewards you earn is a dollar Chase will match.
• Unlimited 1.5% cash back is just the beginning of what you can earn. You'll enjoy 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services, 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; and 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• No annual fee - You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
• Member FDIC

Up to 5% Cash Back

Ink Business Cash^® Credit Card

4.8

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Ink Business Cash^® Credit Card

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Current Offer

Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards Rate

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; 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year; and 1% cash back on all other purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• $0 annual fee
• 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months (then 18.49% - 24.49% Variable)
• Up to 5% cash back

Drawbacks

• Capped spending on bonus cash back categories
• Has foreign transaction fee

Card Details

• Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• 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 purchases
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• No Annual Fee
• Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
• 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
• Member FDIC

Seriously Powerful Cashback Card

Chase Freedom Flex℠

4.7

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Chase Freedom Flex℠

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Current Offer

Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards Rate

5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories you activate (on up to $1,500 spent) and travel purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery service); and 1% cash back on all other purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
• Up to 5% cash back on spending
• Perks from Lyft, DoorDash, and more

Drawbacks

• Has foreign transaction fee

Card Details

• Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
• 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories you activate (on up to $1,500 spent) and travel purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery service); and 1% cash back on all other purchases
• Intro purchase 0% APR offer: 0% for 15 months then 20.49%-29.24% Variable
• Intro balance transfer 0% APR offer: 0% for 15 months then 20.49%-29.24% Variable

Methodology: How we chose these cards

The rewards credit cards listed were chosen based on a combination of factors. These criteria included whether a welcome bonus was offered, the minimum spend required to earn the bonus, and the value of the offer.

Prospective long-term rewards were also a key factor. We looked at bonus rewards categories, earning caps on rewards, and if flexible redemption options were available. The cost to carry the card (e.g., the annual fee) and other limitations were also compared against the value of its benefits and rewards.

The 3 types of rewards credit cards

Although the best rewards cards listed are bucketed together, the type of rewards you earn will vary based on the credit card issuer and type of card you choose. Here are three types of rewards credit cards and how they add value in different ways. The best card for you will be the one that best suits your needs.

Cash back rewards cards

Cash back credit cards let you earn a certain percentage of cash back based on your purchases. Certain cards may offer flat-rate cash back, and others may offer bonus rewards in rotating categories. When you’re ready to redeem your cashback rewards, you can typically do so in the form of statement credit on your account, a direct deposit or check, or a gift card or donation. We recommend you pick from among the best cash back credit cards.

Travel rewards cards

Some of the best travel credit cards are issued by financial institutions and may be co-branded with an airline or hotel. These rewards credit cards typically have travel benefits and perks that help you save money and enjoy a better travel experience. They might also have credit card travel insurance benefits.

Some travel rewards offer the biggest value when you redeem them for airfare or hotel stays, but many also offer flexible redemption options that let you transfer rewards to your preferred airline or hotel.

Store rewards cards

You can also find rewards credit cards for your favorite retail stores. These cards offer store-specific rewards that can help you save on future online or in-store purchases. Some store cards also offer tiered status, depending on how much you spend with the brand. In exchange for a higher spend, the store might offer a bigger percentage off of your next purchase or other perks.

How to maximize credit card rewards

Consider these five tips to help maximize how you earn and redeem credit card rewards.

1. Get a rewards credit card

The first step in maximizing credit card rewards is making sure you have a rewards credit card. Not every credit card earns rewards, and not all rewards are the same. For beginners to rewards credit cards, it’s often easy to start with a credit card that earns flexible rewards.

These types of rewards, which include Chase Ultimate Rewards, Amex Membership Rewards, and Capital One miles, can be used for a wide variety of travel redemptions. For example, you can redeem Capital One miles through the Capital One Travel portal for flights, hotel stays, and rental cars. This makes it easier to get used to rewards cards since you have multiple redemption options.

2. Use your credit card

A basic rule of thumb for rewards cards is to use them as much as you can and you’ll earn more rewards. This doesn’t mean buying as much stuff as possible, but using your credit card on anything you were already planning on purchasing.

Groceries, gas, internet, phone bills, online shopping, eating out, and plenty of other everyday expenses can typically be put on a credit card. As long as you plan on making on-time and full credit card payments each billing cycle, there’s often no downside to using rewards cards to make common purchases.

3. Align spending habits with bonus categories

Many rewards credit cards have different bonus categories where you earn more rewards than the base rewards rate. For example, the base rewards rate might be 1% cash back for most purchases, but on dining purchases, you might earn 3% cash back.

You can maximize your earning potential if you know the categories where you spend the most money. So if you spend a lot on dining and groceries, it makes sense to apply for a credit card with dining and grocery bonus categories. In some cases, you might want a separate credit card for each bonus category, so one card for dining and another card for groceries. This type of strategy could help you maximize your earning potential with bonus miles, points, or cash back.

4. Take advantage of bonus offers

Welcome bonuses are an easy way for you, as a new cardholder, to earn loads of rewards soon after qualifying for a new credit card. 

For example, you might be able to earn 60,000 or more points for spending $4,000 in the first three months. Compare that to everyday earning potential, where you might spend $4,000 and you could earn between 4,000 to 20,000 points depending on your cards’ earning rates.

Sign-up bonuses are typically much more valuable than simply earning rewards from buying groceries or dining out. But you might have to time earning a welcome bonus with an upcoming large purchase to meet the spending requirement of the bonus. 

Remember that terms apply to bonus offers. Specifically, you typically have to meet a spending requirement for the one-time bonus within a few months of card membership.

5. Make valuable redemptions

Rewards credit cards can have loads of different redemption options, but they might not all provide the same value.

For example, 10,000 points might be worth $100 if redeemed for a flight, but only worth $80 if used for online purchases. In this case, you get more value by redeeming your points for flights.

It’s common for different redemption options to have different redemption values, so it’s important to see what those values are before you use your rewards. You might also place your own values on redemptions depending on the situation.

This could be the case if you have no need for travel redemptions. So the best cash-related redemption option on your card could be your top choice even if it technically might have a lower redemption value compared to something else.

How to choose a rewards card

Which rewards credit card is right for you? Consider these five factors to help narrow down your choices.

1. Welcome offers

Most rewards cards provide a welcome offer or sign-up bonus to new cardmembers. The terms of each bonus can vary, but the format is often the same. Spend a specific amount on your new credit card within a certain number of months and earn a bunch of rewards.

This can be an easy way to earn loads of cash back, miles, or points soon after opening a new rewards card. And as you compare cards, you might discover that an elevated or limited-time welcome offer might make one card more appealing than another.

2. Rewards types

Rewards cards typically earn points, miles, or cash back. Points and miles are often associated with travel rewards credit cards and can generally be used for travel-related redemptions, such as flights and hotel stays.

Cash back credit cards earn cash back, and the redemptions can vary. But statement credits and deposits into bank accounts are common cashback redemption options.

On a basic level, earning points and miles makes sense if you want to redeem rewards for travel. But if you’re not big into travel, cashback rewards are typically the way to go.

3. Earning potential

Rewards cards earn rewards as you make eligible purchases. But how many rewards you earn depends on your card’s rewards rate.

For example, a card might earn 2X miles on every eligible purchase you make. Or it could earn higher rewards in certain categories, such as on dining, gas, or travel. In some cases, you might be able to earn more rewards on purchases from specific retailers. For example, the Chase Freedom Flex offers elevated rewards in rotating categories, which has included Target, Amazon, and Walmart.

It’s important to choose rewards cards that align with your spending habits so you can earn the most rewards possible.

4. Perks and benefits

If a credit card has benefits, will they be valuable to you? This is something you have to consider as you read over the perks on any rewards credit card, including small business credit cards. It’s often easy to know if you’ll use an annual credit for travel, but how often do you visit airport lounges? And will you use a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit?

Would something like cell phone protection or saving money on food delivery services be useful to you? Keep in mind that World Mastercard and World Elite Mastercards, as well as Visa Signature and Visa Infinite credit cards, tend to have an above-average number of benefits. These could include different travel perks, purchase protection, and extended warranty coverage.

Note that some card perks have an activation requirement, which means enrollment might be required before you can use a benefit. As you compare credit cards, read over their lists of benefits thoroughly to make sure they're clear and align with your preferences and goals.

5. Fees and interest rates

In general, credit cards tend to have fees and high interest rates. It’s likely not worth it to use a credit card at all if you plan to carry a balance and then have to pay interest charges.

But some credit card offers provide introductory APR offers on balance transfers and/or purchases. This could be useful if you’re trying to pay down debt without having to worry about interest. It might also be helpful if you have an upcoming large purchase. But be sure to keep an eye on balance transfer fees.

Additionally, many credit cards have no annual fees. A $0-annual-fee credit card means less stress about paying an annual cost, but these types of credit cards also tend to have fewer benefits compared to cards with annual fees.

For frequent travelers, cards with no foreign transaction fees make sense if you plan on traveling abroad.

Making the most of your rewards card

Make purchases on everything that makes sense

One of the primary benefits of a rewards card is being able to earn valuable cash back, points, or miles on all eligible purchases. This means you should use your card as much as it makes sense if you want to earn as many rewards as possible.

For example, you can put all your everyday purchases on your rewards card. This can include groceries, gas, food, entertainment, utilities, and more.

Keep in mind that it typically doesn’t make sense to spend more than you normally would just to earn credit card rewards. In most cases, your spending should be on things you were planning to buy anyway.

Increase your earning potential with multiple cards

Some rewards cards have bonus categories, which means you’ll earn more rewards on certain purchases. For example, a 3X bonus category on dining means you get 3X points for dining purchases. But the same credit card might only earn 1X at U.S. gas stations or grocery stores.

Depending on your spending habits, you might consider using multiple rewards cards to earn more rewards in multiple categories. This could mean having a card for travel, a card for dining, a card for groceries, and so on. In some cases, one rewards card might be enough for multiple categories at the same time.

Note that if you don’t want the potential headache of juggling multiple cards and keeping track of which card to use for what purchase, consider a flat-rate rewards card instead. This is a type of card that earns an elevated base rate on all eligible purchases. For example, 2% cash back on all purchases.

Use your perks and benefits

Rewards credit cards often provide different types of perks and benefits. This could include car rental benefits, airline credits or upgrades, streaming subscription credits, and more.

It makes sense to take advantage of any available card benefits if you want to get the most value out of your rewards card. For instance, a frequent traveler might use their airport lounge access to get free food and drinks and save money by not having to pay for overpriced airport food.

Maximize your redemption value

Rewards credit cards typically provide many different types of redemptions. This could include statement credits, travel, gift cards, and other options.

Make sure you check your card’s rewards program details to see whether all the redemptions provide the same value. For example, you might get one redemption rate for receiving a statement credit and a different rate for receiving a gift card. If you want to stretch your rewards, it makes sense to use redemptions that provide the most value.

In general, travel credit cards get more value from travel-related redemptions. Similarly, cash back credit cards often receive more value from cash-related redemptions.

Popular credit card rewards programs and their benefits

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase Ultimate Rewards is the rewards program for Chase’s suite of rewards credit cards.

You can redeem Ultimate Rewards points in a number of ways, which makes this program very flexible. For example, points can be redeemed for cash back or a statement credit, gift cards, merchandise, or toward Amazon or Apple purchases. When you redeem points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards, they are worth 25% more.

Chase also partners with many airlines and hotels. Rewards transfers are typically offered at a 1:1 ratio, which ensures your points don’t lose their value.

Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners include:

American Express Membership Rewards

The American Express Membership Rewards program lets you use earned points that can be redeemed for statement credits, gift cards, or merchandise. You can also use them to book on Amex Travel — which typically provides the most value — or donate to charity.

When shopping on store websites that partner with American Express Membership Rewards, you can easily redeem points at checkout. Some popular retailers that participate are Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart.

Like Chase Ultimate Rewards, travelers can also transfer points to Amex partners. Amex travel partners include:

Capital One Venture Rewards

Depending on the kind of Capital One card you have, you can choose to participate in the Capital One Venture Rewards loyalty program to earn points or miles. Your Capital One Venture rewards never expire as long as the account is active.

You can redeem your rewards as cash back, for travel, on Amazon, and more. Capital One transfer partners include:

Are rewards credit cards worth it?

Though you'll likely need a good or excellent credit score to get approved for a rewards card, they can offer incredible value on purchases you would have otherwise made with cash or conventional credit cards. There are many scenarios in which a rewards card can be useful, whether you opt for a cashback card or a travel card.

For example, if you’re planning a wedding and already have savings set aside for expenses, like the venue or catering. Instead of paying vendors with cash, opt to use one of the best credit cards for weddings, and repay the credit card statement in full using the savings you’ve set aside. By doing so, you’ll accumulate rewards from the wedding expenses that you can use to offset the cost of a honeymoon.

Using a rewards card is also valuable if your timing is strategic. If you need a new laptop, for example, and are planning to purchase one soon, you might try to find a rewards card that offers a lucrative welcome offer. When you make the purchase within the welcome promotion window and hit the minimum spend, you can earn rewards to offset the cost of the laptop. Just make sure you have enough saved to repay the charge.

When used responsibly, rewards credit cards can help you save. Many also offer valuable perks that can help make your travel experiences more enjoyable.

FAQs

Bottom line

If you’re in the market for a new card, chances are you’ll find a rewards card that aligns with your needs and personal finances. Whether you’ve just figured out how to start a business or are making a large purchase, the best rewards credit card can earn you extra savings on the purchases you’re already making.

Lucrative, Flat-Rate Cash Rewards

Wells Fargo Active Cash^® Card

5.0

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Wells Fargo Active Cash^® Card

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Rates and fees

Current Offer

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

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards Rate

Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
• Intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
• $0 annual fee

Drawbacks

• Has foreign transaction fee
• No bonus categories

Card Details

• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
• $0 annual fee.
• No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.

Author Details

Jennifer Calonia Jennifer Calonia is a native Los Angeles-based writer and editor with eight years of experience in personal finance. She's passionate about helping others pay off debt, navigate family finance, and use rewards credit cards, responsibly. She's been featured on Forbes, The Huffington Post, Business Insider, Credit Karma, Nerdwallet, and more. To find more information about her work, visit JenniferCalonia.com.

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