Do credit card rewards expire?

Typically, credit card rewards don’t expire for the life of your account. That means your rewards won’t expire as long as you keep your account open and in good standing. However, make sure to read your rewards program’s terms and conditions carefully since this isn’t guaranteed for all cards.

Are credit card rewards taxable?

Generally, rewards are not considered taxable since the IRS considers the rewards to be a form of rebate on the purchase. Though uncommon, rewards may be taxable if they’re received under circumstances like bonus offers without a spending requirement. Make sure to look at the credit card’s terms to see the conditions of how you can receive and redeem bonus rewards.

What credit score do I need for a rewards card?

You typically need good to excellent credit (FICO score 670 and higher) to qualify for a competitive rewards card. Premium travel cards might require an excellent credit score (FICO score of 800 and above). You can also find rewards cards for people with fair credit, but the rewards and perks might be limited.

Best Rewards Credit Cards of July 2024

lucrative benefits<\/a>. It already delivers top-notch long-term value with its remarkable redemption options, Chase card pairing options and transfer partners.  Plus, the hefty welcome offer makes the short-term rewards value exceptional as well. Learn more:<\/strong>  <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//is-chase-sapphire-preferred-worth-it///">Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred worth it?<\/a> Alternatives:<\/strong>  The <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//citi-strata-premier-card///">Citi Strata Premier\u2120 Card<\/a> could be more rewarding if you\u2019d benefit from a larger pool of everyday reward categories and stronger benefits and rewards rates for hotel stays. However, the <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//capital-one-venture-rewards-credit-card///">Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card<\/a> is worth considering if you just want straightforward, flat-rate rewards without sacrificing valuable transfer partners. <\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"Editor's take","pros":["Its annual hotel statement credits and anniversary points bonus can carry enough value to easily justify the annual fee.","Thanks to the 25 percent redemption value boost via Chase Travel, Ultimate Rewards points are some of the most valuable rewards available through both transfer partners and the issuer portal."],"cons":["It doesn\u2019t have flight-focused travel perks like airport lounge access or free checked bags.","The card's grocery rewards rate only applies to eligible online grocery purchases, which could limit its appeal as a standalone option for everyday rewards."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":"It boasts terrific rewards value with its annual bonus points, practical bonus categories, high-value points and redemption flexibility."},"program":{"id":43,"name":"Chase Ultimate Rewards (Sapphire Preferred and Ink Business Preferred cards)","active_rate":{"id":44,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.02000"}},"tags":[{"name":"Airline","image":"c4f0c810-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Auto Rental Insurance","image":"d6ec79897b86788fd06161de100bae33.png"},{"name":"Concierge Service","image":"9a88b402c09f511d28190e3d832d539f.png"},{"name":"Dining","image":"a5b97e80-e7dc-11ea-b568-e36303e248dc.svg"},{"name":"EMV","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png"},{"name":"Excellent Credit","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Extended Warranty Program","image":"9cebe165fee20278a857330672d7df78.png"},{"name":"Hotel","image":"bd6727b0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Lost Luggage Reimbursement","image":"231ad48ab7e885376229897f37b65348.png"},{"name":"Mobile Pay Ready","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png"},{"name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png"},{"name":"Points","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Popular","image":"4b16a0f0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Primary Auto Rental Insurance","image":"9fb1075bfc14ead7984202901ff13e5d.png"},{"name":"Purchase Protection","image":"9524b9f2b1d3c84068061b9c0f720bcd.png"},{"name":"Rewards","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Roadside Assistance","image":"aa9e23720be9c22177565be427797d94.png"},{"name":"Travel","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Travel Accident Insurance","image":"9148b97046b15a99a3744622d7b3b285.png"},{"name":"Travel Assistance","image":"26421ca115c6cf8f5b77f401ccc2b7e3.png"},{"name":"Trip Cancellation Insurance","image":"a1b8370a910a1d34fa62103b4eb338fe.png"},{"name":"Unsecured credit card","image":"1c40e1f0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Visa","image":"aef17b2f1dfc88c2fe6534963ae586cd.png"},{"name":"Zero Fraud Liability","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png"}]})" >

Best starter travel card

Add to compare

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Recommended credit score: 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.

Apply now

on Chase's secure site

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℠.

60,000 bonus points

$1,200 value

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.

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.

1x - 5x

Annual fee

$95

Regular APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Why you’ll like this card: It boasts terrific rewards value with its annual bonus points, practical bonus categories, high-value points and redemption flexibility.

- 5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
- 3x 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries.
- 2x 2x on all other travel purchases.
- 1x 1x on all other purchases.
What we love: Occasional travelers who value flexibility can enjoy this card’s excellent rewards on both travel and everyday spending, stellar travel protections and other lucrative benefits. It already delivers top-notch long-term value with its remarkable redemption options, Chase card pairing options and transfer partners. Plus, the hefty welcome offer makes the short-term rewards value exceptional as well.

Learn more: Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred worth it?

Alternatives: The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card could be more rewarding if you’d benefit from a larger pool of everyday reward categories and stronger benefits and rewards rates for hotel stays. However, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is worth considering if you just want straightforward, flat-rate rewards without sacrificing valuable transfer partners.
Pros

Its annual hotel statement credits and anniversary points bonus can carry enough value to easily justify the annual fee.

Thanks to the 25 percent redemption value boost via Chase Travel, Ultimate Rewards points are some of the most valuable rewards available through both transfer partners and the issuer portal.

Cons

It doesn’t have flight-focused travel perks like airport lounge access or free checked bags.

The card's grocery rewards rate only applies to eligible online grocery purchases, which could limit its appeal as a standalone option for everyday rewards.
- 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℠.
- Enjoy benefits such as 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, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
- Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. 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

great travel starter card<\/a> for all types of spenders since you can earn flexible miles even without spending a ton on travel. You also have the unique option to redeem miles for statement credits toward eligible past travel purchases. Learn more: <\/strong><a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//why-i-love-capital-one-venture-rewards///">Why expert Jacqueline DeMarco loves the Capital One Venture<\/a> Alternative: <\/strong>The Capital One Venture X may be more lucrative overall thanks to its practical perks and high-value annual credits. <\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"Editor's take","pros":["<a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//travel//points-and-miles-valuations///">According to Bankrate's valuations<\/a>, each mile is worth on average 2 cents if redeemed through a Capital One transfer partner \u2014 great value for a flat-rate card.","You can take advantage of statement credits for valuable perks like expedited security screening, making the already-low annual fee easy to offset."],"cons":["The welcome offer has a high spend requirement, so it may not be easy to attain.","Some competitors provide more eye-catching perks like annual hotel credits, account anniversary bonus points and ridesharing perks.","Unless you take advantage of Capital One\u2019s transfer partners, your miles will only be worth 1 cent (or less, for non-travel redemptions). Other travel cards offer a higher point value if you redeem through the issuer\u2019s portal."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":"You\u2019ll get access to a handful of the most useful and valuable travel perks out there without breaking the bank."},"program":{"id":42,"name":"Capital One miles","active_rate":{"id":43,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01700"}},"tags":[{"name":"Airline","image":"c4f0c810-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Capital One","image":null},{"name":"Dining","image":"a5b97e80-e7dc-11ea-b568-e36303e248dc.svg"},{"name":"EMV","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png"},{"name":"Excellent Credit","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Good Credit","image":"88dfa120-bd19-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Hotel","image":"bd6727b0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Miles","image":null},{"name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png"},{"name":"Points","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Rewards","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Travel","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"}]})" >

Best for flat-rate travel rewards

Add to compare

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Recommended credit score: 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.

Apply now

on Capital One's secure site

See Rates & Fees

Intro offer

New Venture cardholders can earn 75,000 miles once they spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

Earn 75,000 miles

$1,275 value

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.

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.

2 Miles - 5 Miles

Annual fee

$95

Regular APR

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Why you’ll like this card: You’ll get access to a handful of the most useful and valuable travel perks out there without breaking the bank.

- 5 Miles 5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- 2 Miles 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
The flat 2X rewards rate on purchases makes this a great travel starter card for all types of spenders since you can earn flexible miles even without spending a ton on travel. You also have the unique option to redeem miles for statement credits toward eligible past travel purchases.

Learn more: Why expert Jacqueline DeMarco loves the Capital One Venture

Alternative: The Capital One Venture X may be more lucrative overall thanks to its practical perks and high-value annual credits.
Pros

According to Bankrate's valuations, each mile is worth on average 2 cents if redeemed through a Capital One transfer partner — great value for a flat-rate card.

You can take advantage of statement credits for valuable perks like expedited security screening, making the already-low annual fee easy to offset.

Cons

The welcome offer has a high spend requirement, so it may not be easy to attain.

Some competitors provide more eye-catching perks like annual hotel credits, account anniversary bonus points and ridesharing perks.

Unless you take advantage of Capital One’s transfer partners, your miles will only be worth 1 cent (or less, for non-travel redemptions). Other travel cards offer a higher point value if you redeem through the issuer’s portal.
- Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
- Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
- Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
- Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
- Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
- Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
- Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Chase Sapphire Preferred\u00ae Card<\/a> may offer more value for both frequent travelers and everyday spenders, thanks mostly to its high point redemption value. And while its hotel perk is only worth up to $50 in annual statement credits toward hotel stays through Chase Travel, you\u2019ll only need to spend $50 to earn it (versus $500 with the Strata Premier).<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"Editor's take","pros":["It earns rewards in several key everyday spending categories, so it should be easy to earn travel points even if you don\u2019t actually spend a ton on travel.","It stacks exceptionally well with no-annual-fee Citi rewards cards, giving you a chance to maximize your rewards in nearly every major spending category."],"cons":["You\u2019ll only earn the annual hotel benefit if you book a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) through CitiTravel.com. That\u2019s pretty inflexible.","Bankrate estimates that Citi rewards carry a lower average redemption value (around 1.6 cents per point) than several competing programs (some of which offer 2 cents per point or more in value)."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":"It has a valuable welcome offer and an annual hotel credit that can easily offset its annual fee."},"program":{"id":46,"name":"Citi ThankYou Points (Premier card)","active_rate":{"id":47,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01600"}},"tags":[{"name":"Dining","image":"a5b97e80-e7dc-11ea-b568-e36303e248dc.svg"},{"name":"Excellent Credit","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Gas","image":"884742a0-bd22-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Good Credit","image":"88dfa120-bd19-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Grocery","image":null},{"name":"Hotel","image":"bd6727b0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png"},{"name":"Points","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Rewards","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Travel","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"}]})" >

Best for hotel bookings

Add to compare

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Recommended credit score: 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.

Apply now

on Citi's secure site

See Rates & Fees

Intro offer

Earn 70,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $700 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com

70,000 bonus points

$1,120 value

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.

Rewards rate

Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com. Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations. Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

1X - 10X

Annual fee

$95

Regular APR

21.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

Why you’ll like this card: It has a valuable welcome offer and an annual hotel credit that can easily offset its annual fee.

- 10X Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
- 3X Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
- 1X Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
What we love: Its annual hotel benefit could offer terrific value even if you only make a few trips per year. Spend $500 on a single hotel booking through CitiTravel.com each calendar year and you’ll instantly get a $100 benefit— enough to offset the annual fee all on its own.

Alternatives: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card may offer more value for both frequent travelers and everyday spenders, thanks mostly to its high point redemption value. And while its hotel perk is only worth up to $50 in annual statement credits toward hotel stays through Chase Travel, you’ll only need to spend $50 to earn it (versus $500 with the Strata Premier).
Pros

It earns rewards in several key everyday spending categories, so it should be easy to earn travel points even if you don’t actually spend a ton on travel.

It stacks exceptionally well with no-annual-fee Citi rewards cards, giving you a chance to maximize your rewards in nearly every major spending category.

Cons

You’ll only earn the annual hotel benefit if you book a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) through CitiTravel.com. That’s pretty inflexible.

Bankrate estimates that Citi rewards carry a lower average redemption value (around 1.6 cents per point) than several competing programs (some of which offer 2 cents per point or more in value).
- Earn 70,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $700 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
- Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
- Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
- Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
- No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
- No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases

traveling foodies<\/a> might find the additional yearly credits on eligible dining, Uber and hotel purchases (through American Express Travel) valuable enough to nearly <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//amex-gold-worth-the-annual-fee///">offset the $250 annual fee<\/a>. Learn more:<\/strong> <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//why-i-love-amex-gold///">Why expert Matt Bundrick loves the Amex Gold<\/a> Alternative: <\/strong>For a higher annual fee, the Amex Platinum and the Chase Sapphire Reserve are smart picks if you\u2019re itching for more than dining rewards since both offer <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//american-express-gold-card-vs-the-platinum-card-from-american-express///">better travel perks<\/a>, rewards and protections. But the Capital One SavorOne or <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//amex-gold-vs-chase-sapphire-preferred///">Chase Sapphire Preferred could be a better fit<\/a> if you want excellent dining and grocery rewards for a more modest annual fee.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"Editor's take","pros":["Transferring points to partner airline or hotel loyalty programs, which include popular brands like Delta and Hilton, can get you more value.","You can earn additional rewards by enrolling in Amex Offers."],"cons":["You'll need to use the annual credits or transfer points for travel frequently to offset the annual fee.","Your points are worth much less if you redeem them to cover dining purchases or any travel purchases other than airfare (they\u2019re often worth half as much or less)."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":"Along with its terrific perks for foodies, it offers valuable rewards on everyday spending."},"program":{"id":39,"name":"American Express Membership Rewards","active_rate":{"id":40,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.02000"}},"tags":[{"name":"Airline","image":"c4f0c810-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Dining","image":"a5b97e80-e7dc-11ea-b568-e36303e248dc.svg"},{"name":"EMV","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png"},{"name":"Editor's Pick","image":"7a8ac2d0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Excellent Credit","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Free Credit Score","image":"c921b548023dc6f855952e83fcfca848.png"},{"name":"Good Credit","image":"88dfa120-bd19-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Mobile Pay Ready","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png"},{"name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png"},{"name":"Points","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Popular","image":"4b16a0f0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Presale Tickets","image":"bb284692903330764acc7c1350a85a42.png"},{"name":"Rewards","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Travel","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Zero Fraud Liability","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png"}]})" >

Best for food and travel

Add to compare

American Express® Gold Card

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Recommended credit score: 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.

Apply now

on American Express's secure site

See Rates & Fees , Terms Apply

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.

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points

$1,200 value

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.

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.

3X - 4X

Annual fee

$250

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Why you’ll like this card: Along with its terrific perks for foodies, it offers valuable rewards on everyday spending.

- 4X Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
- 4X Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
- 3X Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
What we love: This premium card offers one of the best rewards rates you can get with a single card on both dining and U.S. supermarket purchases, plus stellar travel rewards value via its list of Amex transfer partners. It has a pricey annual fee, but traveling foodies might find the additional yearly credits on eligible dining, Uber and hotel purchases (through American Express Travel) valuable enough to nearly offset the $250 annual fee.

Learn more: Why expert Matt Bundrick loves the Amex Gold

Alternative: For a higher annual fee, the Amex Platinum and the Chase Sapphire Reserve are smart picks if you’re itching for more than dining rewards since both offer better travel perks, rewards and protections. But the Capital One SavorOne or Chase Sapphire Preferred could be a better fit if you want excellent dining and grocery rewards for a more modest annual fee.
Pros

Transferring points to partner airline or hotel loyalty programs, which include popular brands like Delta and Hilton, can get you more value.

You can earn additional rewards by enrolling in Amex Offers.

Cons

You'll need to use the annual credits or transfer points for travel frequently to offset the annual fee.

Your points are worth much less if you redeem them to cover dining purchases or any travel purchases other than airfare (they’re often worth half as much or less).
- 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.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and 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.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
- Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
- Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $250.
- Terms Apply.

Expert Aja McClanahan discusses if the Wells Fargo Active Cash is worth it<\/a> Alternative: <\/strong>The <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//citi-double-cash-card///">Citi Double Cash\u00ae Card<\/a> may be a better option if you\u2019re looking for a long intro APR balance transfer offer. The <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//chase-freedom-unlimited///">Chase Freedom Unlimited\u00ae<\/a> could also be more valuable thanks to its additional 3 percent cash back categories. <\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"Editor's take","pros":["Paying your monthly cellphone bill with your card earns you cellphone protection, a relatively valuable perk.","You can redeem your rewards as physical cash in $20 increments when you use a Wells Fargo ATM \u2014 a convenient option missing from many rewards cards."],"cons":["Though it comes with Visa Signature\u00ae features, the Active Cash card's extra perks are otherwise limited.","You cannot transfer rewards to airline or hotel loyalty programs and can only redeem through Wells Fargo."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_cashBack","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":"It\u2019s a great foundation for your rewards card strategy thanks to its high flat cash rewards rate."},"program":{"id":52,"name":"Cash Intro Offers","active_rate":{"id":53,"label":"1:1_Ratio","active":1,"unit_value":"1.00000"}},"tags":[]})" >

Best for flat-rate cash rewards

Add to compare

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Recommended credit score: 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.

Apply now

on Wells Fargo's secure site

See Rates & Fees

Intro offer

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

$200 cash rewards

Rewards rate

Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.

2%

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

Why you’ll like this card: It’s a great foundation for your rewards card strategy thanks to its high flat cash rewards rate.

- 2% Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
What we love: This well-rounded card carries one of the highest flat cash rewards rates available. Since there’s no need to track categories or jump through additional hoops, it’s an especially good fit if you prefer a simple cash rewards structure.

Learn more: Expert Aja McClanahan discusses if the Wells Fargo Active Cash is worth it

Alternative: The Citi Double Cash® Card may be a better option if you’re looking for a long intro APR balance transfer offer. The Chase Freedom Unlimited® could also be more valuable thanks to its additional 3 percent cash back categories.
Pros

Paying your monthly cellphone bill with your card earns you cellphone protection, a relatively valuable perk.

You can redeem your rewards as physical cash in $20 increments when you use a Wells Fargo ATM — a convenient option missing from many rewards cards.

Cons

Though it comes with Visa Signature® features, the Active Cash card's extra perks are otherwise limited.

You cannot transfer rewards to airline or hotel loyalty programs and can only redeem through Wells Fargo.
- 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.

transfer partners<\/a> make it a great option for savings-minded travelers and rewards beginners alike. Learn more: <\/strong><a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//reasons-to-get-ventureone-rewards-card///">7 reasons to get the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Card<\/a> Alternative: <\/strong>If you prioritize a card\u2019s rewards rate over basic travel perks and transfer partners, consider the no-annual-fee <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//discover-it-miles///">Discover it\u00ae Miles<\/a> card or the <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//bank-of-america-travel-rewards-credit-card///">Bank of America\u00ae Travel Rewards credit card<\/a> for a 1.5X reward rate on all purchases that can be redeemed for versatile travel purchase statement credits. <\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"Editor's take","pros":["You can transfer miles to airline and hotel partners \u2014 a rare perk for a no-annual-fee travel card.","There\u2019s a relatively lengthy intro APR period for purchase and balance transfer\u2014 uncommon for a travel mile card."],"cons":["If you don\u2019t plan on transferring rewards to Capital One\u2019s travel partners, another travel rewards card may offer better point redemption value.","If you usually fly within the U.S., keep in mind that Capital One\u2019s transfer partners don\u2019t include any major domestic airlines or hotels outside the Wyndham brand."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":"Earning travel rewards is simple and low risk thanks to its solid flat rewards rate and $0 annual fee."},"program":{"id":42,"name":"Capital One miles","active_rate":{"id":43,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01700"}},"tags":[{"name":"0% Introductory APR","image":"c12c6fbd562a494517625a65bbb1e71e.png"},{"name":"Airline","image":"c4f0c810-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Capital One","image":null},{"name":"EMV","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png"},{"name":"Excellent Credit","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Good Credit","image":"88dfa120-bd19-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Hotel","image":"bd6727b0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Low Interest","image":"85a8ad80-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Miles","image":null},{"name":"No Annual Fee","image":"4226595fe40f1186714c2263039b7df0.png"},{"name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png"},{"name":"Points","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Rewards","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Travel","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"}]})" >

Best no-annual-fee travel card

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Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Recommended credit score: 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.

Apply now

on Capital One's secure site

See Rates & Fees

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

20,000 miles

$340 value

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.

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.

1.25 Miles - 5 Miles

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Why you’ll like this card: Earning travel rewards is simple and low risk thanks to its solid flat rewards rate and $0 annual fee.

- 5 Miles 5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- 1.25 Miles 1.25 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
What we love: Although you only earn 1.25X miles on purchases other than Capital One Travel hotel and rental car bookings, its intro APR offer and transfer partners make it a great option for savings-minded travelers and rewards beginners alike.

Learn more: 7 reasons to get the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Card

Alternative: If you prioritize a card’s rewards rate over basic travel perks and transfer partners, consider the no-annual-fee Discover it® Miles card or the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for a 1.5X reward rate on all purchases that can be redeemed for versatile travel purchase statement credits.
Pros

You can transfer miles to airline and hotel partners — a rare perk for a no-annual-fee travel card.

There’s a relatively lengthy intro APR period for purchase and balance transfer— uncommon for a travel mile card.

Cons

If you don’t plan on transferring rewards to Capital One’s travel partners, another travel rewards card may offer better point redemption value.

If you usually fly within the U.S., keep in mind that Capital One’s transfer partners don’t include any major domestic airlines or hotels outside the Wyndham brand.
- $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
- Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
- Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
- Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
- Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
- Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
- Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Nouri Zarrugh<\/a>, Senior Editor, Credit Cards What we love: <\/strong>This card\u2019s terrific mix of everyday bonus categories makes it a top pick if you want a single card that earns rewards on food and fun. You\u2019ll earn an excellent unlimited cash back rate at restaurants, grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart\u00ae and Target\u00ae) and even on many <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//capital-one-savor-cards-entertainment-category///">entertainment purchases<\/a> that don\u2019t typically earn credit card rewards \u2014 like tickets to movies, sporting events and more. Learn more: <\/strong><a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//is-capital-one-savorone-worth-it///">Is the Capital One SavorOne worth it?<\/a> Alternative: <\/strong>If you don\u2019t spend much at the grocery store or on entertainment, then the <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//capital-one-savorone-cash-rewards-vs-chase-freedom-unlimited///">Chase Freedom Unlimited\u00ae may be a better option<\/a>. You'll have plenty of chances to earn cash back in multiple bonus categories (including dining) and a fair flat rate for all other eligible purchases. <\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"Editor's take","pros":["It\u2019s easily one of the most well-rounded rewards cards available thanks to its generous cash back rates and variety, accessible welcome offer and long intro APR periods.","It offers automatic cash back redemption \u2014 a relatively rare option that can make the rewards experience even easier."],"cons":["Superstores and wholesale clubs like Walmart, Target, BJ\u2019s and Sam\u2019s Club do not count for elevated rewards rates, which may limit your potential earnings.","You can redeem cash rewards on Amazon.com, but there is a list of <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.amazon.com//gp//help//customer//display.html?nodeId=G4MVF6PVLLARQACD\%22 target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" >restricted items<\/a>."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_cashBack","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":"Its boosted cash back rate in popular spending categories makes it a great standalone option."},"program":{"id":52,"name":"Cash Intro Offers","active_rate":{"id":53,"label":"1:1_Ratio","active":1,"unit_value":"1.00000"}},"tags":[{"name":"0% Introductory APR","image":"c12c6fbd562a494517625a65bbb1e71e.png"},{"name":"Capital One","image":null},{"name":"Cash Back","image":"0fcfc350-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"EMV","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png"},{"name":"Excellent Credit","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Good Credit","image":"88dfa120-bd19-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Grocery","image":null},{"name":"Low Interest","image":"85a8ad80-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"No Annual Fee","image":"4226595fe40f1186714c2263039b7df0.png"},{"name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png"},{"name":"Rewards","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"}]})" >

Best overall

Add to compare

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Recommended credit score: 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.

Apply now

on Capital One's secure site

See Rates & Fees

Intro offer

Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening

$200

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.

1% - 8%

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Why you’ll like this card: Its boosted cash back rate in popular spending categories makes it a great standalone option.

- 8% 8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
- 5% 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)
- 3% 3% Cash Back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®)
- 1% 1% Cash Back on all other purchases
Why it’s the best overall: "If I had to pick one rewards card to use for all of my spending, this would be near the top of my list. Its low cost and great rewards rate in some of my most important everyday spending categories mean it offers terrific standalone value. It’s an even better fit now that I have a Capital One travel card and can transfer rewards to it (and maybe even squeeze more value out of them)." — Nouri Zarrugh, Senior Editor, Credit Cards

What we love: This card’s terrific mix of everyday bonus categories makes it a top pick if you want a single card that earns rewards on food and fun. You’ll earn an excellent unlimited cash back rate at restaurants, grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®) and even on many entertainment purchases that don’t typically earn credit card rewards — like tickets to movies, sporting events and more.

Learn more: Is the Capital One SavorOne worth it?

Alternative: If you don’t spend much at the grocery store or on entertainment, then the Chase Freedom Unlimited® may be a better option. You'll have plenty of chances to earn cash back in multiple bonus categories (including dining) and a fair flat rate for all other eligible purchases.
Pros

It’s easily one of the most well-rounded rewards cards available thanks to its generous cash back rates and variety, accessible welcome offer and long intro APR periods.

It offers automatic cash back redemption — a relatively rare option that can make the rewards experience even easier.

Cons

Superstores and wholesale clubs like Walmart, Target, BJ’s and Sam’s Club do not count for elevated rewards rates, which may limit your potential earnings.

You can redeem cash rewards on Amazon.com, but there is a list of restricted items.
- Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other purchases
- Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
- Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
- 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
- No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
- 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
- No foreign transaction fee
- No annual fee

Is the Amex Platinum worth the yearly fee?<\/a> Alternative: <\/strong>The Amex Platinum's perks may not be a great fit for some cardholders. The Chase Sapphire Reserve or Capital One Venture X may offer more practical perks at a lower cost. <\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"Editor's take","pros":["You could earn perhaps the <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//news//amex-platinum-welcome-offer///">most valuable welcome offer<\/a> currently available when applying for the Amex Platinum through <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//tools//cardmatch///">CardMatch: 150,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first six months.","Carries perhaps the most comprehensive lounge access, hotel privileges and travel benefits of any mainstream personal card."],"cons":["Several annual credits and perks aren\u2019t practical for many cardholders (like the Equinox and private jet program offers), which may make the $695 annual fee tough to offset.","The bonus category coverage is quite narrow, so you\u2019ll have to lean on the extra perks for the bulk of your value."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":"It\u2019s perfect for luxury-minded travelers who spare no expense when booking airfare or hotels and want the most with every experience."},"program":{"id":39,"name":"American Express Membership Rewards","active_rate":{"id":40,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.02000"}},"tags":[{"name":"Airport Lounge Access","image":"0a7bb0c9d2441e79b34993203e8d1f86.png"},{"name":"Annual Uber Credit","image":"57d3b70966ec41ae81d620b6c000eb39.png"},{"name":"Concierge Service","image":"9a88b402c09f511d28190e3d832d539f.png"},{"name":"EMV","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png"},{"name":"Elite Status","image":"9fa189a52338b4574699750e7a6e121d.png"},{"name":"Excellent Credit","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Free Credit Score","image":"c921b548023dc6f855952e83fcfca848.png"},{"name":"Free Wi-Fi Access","image":"b67ead4ff3cb0e57462c3dce8e876546.png"},{"name":"Mobile Pay Ready","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png"},{"name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png"},{"name":"Points","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Popular","image":"4b16a0f0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Presale Tickets","image":"bb284692903330764acc7c1350a85a42.png"},{"name":"Private Jet Access","image":"2566a3a19d7cf57528d908d8d8163ce5.png"},{"name":"Rewards","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"TSA\/Customs Reimbursement","image":"2c364fe0-bd24-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Travel","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Ultra-Premium Card","image":null},{"name":"Zero Fraud Liability","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png"}]})" >

Best for luxury travel

Add to compare

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Recommended credit score: 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.

Apply now

on American Express's secure site

See Rates & Fees , Terms Apply

Intro offer

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 80,000 points

$1,600 value

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.

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.

5X - 5X

Annual fee

$695

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Why you’ll like this card: It’s perfect for luxury-minded travelers who spare no expense when booking airfare or hotels and want the most with every experience.

- 5X 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.
- 5X Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
What we love: This card’s perks, protections and credits eclipse those of competing travel cards, offering thousands in value and making it easy to justify its expensive annual fee. If you take advantage of its luxury travel and shopping benefits, this can be one of the best travel cards available.

Learn more: Is the Amex Platinum worth the yearly fee?

Alternative: The Amex Platinum's perks may not be a great fit for some cardholders. The Chase Sapphire Reserve or Capital One Venture X may offer more practical perks at a lower cost.
Pros

You could earn perhaps the most valuable welcome offer currently available when applying for the Amex Platinum through CardMatch: 150,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first six months.

Carries perhaps the most comprehensive lounge access, hotel privileges and travel benefits of any mainstream personal card.

Cons

Several annual credits and perks aren’t practical for many cardholders (like the Equinox and private jet program offers), which may make the $695 annual fee tough to offset.

The bonus category coverage is quite narrow, so you’ll have to lean on the extra perks for the bulk of your value.
- Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
- 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 and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
- $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
- The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
- $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
- $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
- $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
- Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
- Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
- $695 annual fee.
- Terms Apply.

Best for easy-to-earn credits

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Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

Bankrate score

3.9

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.

Bankrate review

Bankrate score

3.9

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.

Bankrate review

Recommended credit score: 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.

Apply now

on Wells Fargo's secure site

See Rates & Fees

Intro offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.

60,000 bonus points

$600 value

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.

Rewards rate

Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels. Earn unlimited 4X points on airlines. Earn unlimited 3X points on other travel and restaurants. Earn 1X points on other purchases.

1X - 5X

Annual fee

$95

Regular APR

21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

Why you’ll like this card: It offers elevated rewards in key travel categories and generous perks for a modest annual fee.

- 5X Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels
- 4X Earn unlimited 4X points on airlines
- 3X Earn unlimited 3X points on other travel and restaurants
- 1X Earn 1X points on other purchases
What we love: Though the card carries an annual fee ($95), it should be easy to offset thanks to the $50 statement credit you can earn each year you make a $50 minimum airline purchase. Earning this should be no problem even for occasional travelers. Plus, you aren’t forced to use the credit toward future airfare or hotel bookings as you are with some competing travel cards.

Alternatives: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of its main competitors since it also carries a $95 annual fee and earns rewards in many of the same categories. It has a leg up when it comes to redemption, though, since its points are worth 25 percent more when you use them to book Chase travel.
Pros

Redemption is flexible: You can use rewards for travel and cash back without worrying about point values, or you can transfer to one of the issuer’s new airline and hotel partners.

It carries a decent mix of practical travel perks, including lost baggage reimbursement and trip cancellation protection that can reimburse you up to $15,000 for lodging, flights, and activities if your trip is canceled for a covered reason.

Cons

It offers a different rewards rate for hotels, airfare and other travel, making it a bit harder to keep up with than a mid-tier card that offers a flat rewards rate on all travel purchases.

You can only stack travel points with the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card, and several of its bonus categories overlap with the Autograph Journey card’s.
- Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
- Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.
- Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
- $95 annual fee.
- Book your travel with the Autograph Journey Card and enjoy Travel Accident Insurance, Lost Baggage Reimbursement, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
- Earn a $50 annual statement credit with $50 minimum airline purchase.
- Up to $1,000 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
- Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

the Venture X worth it<\/a> for both occasional and frequent travelers who want top-tier perks at a lower cost than competing luxury cards. Learn more: <\/strong><a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//capital-one-venture-x-vacation-rentals///">Why the Capital One Venture X is great for saving on your next trip<\/a> Alternative: <\/strong>If you don't think you'll use <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//venture-x-benefits-guide///">Venture X\u2019s features<\/a>, consider a lower-cost travel card instead. The base Venture card also earns a flat 2X miles, while the Chase Sapphire Preferred can offer higher redemption value and other bonus categories beyond travel. <\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"Editor's take","pros":["Since the card\u2019s travel perks make it easy to offset the annual fee, you won\u2019t have to worry about offsetting the card\u2019s cost with earning enough rewards.","You\u2019ll also enjoy Visa Infinite benefits (including exclusive travel concierge service) and the Capital One Travel portal\u2019s AI-powered pricing perks for more affordable bookings."],"cons":["It\u2019s missing a number of the luxury benefits you\u2019ll find on rival cards, like an annual CLEAR membership credit, complimentary hotel or airline loyalty status and other airline hotel and restaurant partner perks.","Its biggest drawback is perhaps Capital One\u2019s lack of major domestic airline partners, which limits the value of your miles compared to rewards on other travel cards."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":"You\u2019ll get access to a handful of the most useful and valuable travel perks out there without breaking the bank."},"program":{"id":42,"name":"Capital One miles","active_rate":{"id":43,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01700"}},"tags":[{"name":"Capital One","image":null},{"name":"Points","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Rewards","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Travel","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"}]})" >

Best for affordable travel perks

Add to compare

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Recommended credit score: 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.

Apply now

on Capital One's secure site

See Rates & Fees

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

75,000 miles

$1,275 value

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.

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.

2 Miles - 10 Miles

Annual fee

$395

Regular APR

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Why you’ll like this card: You’ll get access to a handful of the most useful and valuable travel perks out there without breaking the bank.

- 10 Miles 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- 5 Miles 5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel
- 2 Miles 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
What we love: Yearly perks like $300 in annual credits for Capital One travel bookings can make the Venture X worth it for both occasional and frequent travelers who want top-tier perks at a lower cost than competing luxury cards.

Learn more: Why the Capital One Venture X is great for saving on your next trip

Alternative: If you don't think you'll use Venture X’s features, consider a lower-cost travel card instead. The base Venture card also earns a flat 2X miles, while the Chase Sapphire Preferred can offer higher redemption value and other bonus categories beyond travel.
Pros

Since the card’s travel perks make it easy to offset the annual fee, you won’t have to worry about offsetting the card’s cost with earning enough rewards.

You’ll also enjoy Visa Infinite benefits (including exclusive travel concierge service) and the Capital One Travel portal’s AI-powered pricing perks for more affordable bookings.

Cons

It’s missing a number of the luxury benefits you’ll find on rival cards, like an annual CLEAR membership credit, complimentary hotel or airline loyalty status and other airline hotel and restaurant partner perks.

Its biggest drawback is perhaps Capital One’s lack of major domestic airline partners, which limits the value of your miles compared to rewards on other travel cards.
- 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
- Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
- Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
- Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
- Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
- Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
- Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®

Discover/u2019s cash back calendar<\/a> usually is packed with essential everyday categories, so there are plenty of opportunities to rake in cash back if you don\u2019t mind strategizing where and when to shop each quarter. This impressive card also boasts market-low rates and fees and a valuable cash back match welcome offer at the end of the first year. Learn more: <\/strong><a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//reasons-to-love-discover-it-cash-back///">Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Discover it\u00ae Cash Back<\/a> Alternative: <\/strong>If you\u2019re looking to maximize your seasonal spending rewards, you may get <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//discover-it-cash-back-vs-chase-freedom///">more value<\/a> from the <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//reviews//chase-freedom///">Chase Freedom Flex\u2120<\/a> thanks to its rotating bonus categories plus year-round 3 percent dining and drugstore categories, which can give you more cash back to lean on if a quarterly category doesn\u2019t align with your spending. <\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"Editor's take","pros":["It\u2019s one of the best cash back cards on the market if you\u2019re looking for minimal fees: no annual fee, foreign transaction fees, penalty APR or fee on your first late payment (up to $41 after that). You\u2019ll also enjoy solid intro APR offers and a decent ongoing APR.","Its rotating bonus category variety is nearly unmatched, typically including everything from groceries to online shopping."],"cons":["You must activate and track your bonus categories each quarter, which could make the card too high-maintenance for some applicants.","The card carries hardly any additional features (like travel insurance or other credits) beyond its rewards and low rates and fees.","It has a quarterly spending cap for bonus categories."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_cashBack","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":"It offers the best rewards rate you can get in several popular categories over the course of the year."},"program":{"id":48,"name":"Discover miles","active_rate":{"id":49,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01000"}},"tags":[{"name":"0% Introductory APR","image":"c12c6fbd562a494517625a65bbb1e71e.png"},{"name":"Cash Back","image":"0fcfc350-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"EMV","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png"},{"name":"Excellent Credit","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Free Credit Score","image":"c921b548023dc6f855952e83fcfca848.png"},{"name":"Gas","image":"884742a0-bd22-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Mobile Pay Ready","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png"},{"name":"No Annual Fee","image":"4226595fe40f1186714c2263039b7df0.png"},{"name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png"},{"name":"Popular","image":"4b16a0f0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Price Protection","image":"962b66cf9ebead0f099a67dad29bc23c.png"},{"name":"Rewards","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Rotating Cash Back Categories","image":""},{"name":"Unsecured credit card","image":"1c40e1f0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Zero Fraud Liability","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png"}]})" >

Best for category variety

Add to compare

Discover it® Cash Back

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Recommended credit score: 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.

Apply now

on Discover's secure site

See Rates & Fees

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! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.

Cashback Match

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.

1% - 5%

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.24% - 28.24% Variable APR

Why you’ll like this card: It offers the best rewards rate you can get in several popular categories over the course of the year.

- 5% 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.
- 1% Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
What we love: Discover’s cash back calendar usually is packed with essential everyday categories, so there are plenty of opportunities to rake in cash back if you don’t mind strategizing where and when to shop each quarter. This impressive card also boasts market-low rates and fees and a valuable cash back match welcome offer at the end of the first year.

Learn more: Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Discover it® Cash Back

Alternative: If you’re looking to maximize your seasonal spending rewards, you may get more value from the Chase Freedom Flex℠ thanks to its rotating bonus categories plus year-round 3 percent dining and drugstore categories, which can give you more cash back to lean on if a quarterly category doesn’t align with your spending.
Pros

It’s one of the best cash back cards on the market if you’re looking for minimal fees: no annual fee, foreign transaction fees, penalty APR or fee on your first late payment (up to $41 after that). You’ll also enjoy solid intro APR offers and a decent ongoing APR.

Its rotating bonus category variety is nearly unmatched, typically including everything from groceries to online shopping.

Cons

You must activate and track your bonus categories each quarter, which could make the card too high-maintenance for some applicants.

The card carries hardly any additional features (like travel insurance or other credits) beyond its rewards and low rates and fees.

It has a quarterly spending cap for bonus categories.
- 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! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
- 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.
- Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
- Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
- Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 18.24% to 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
- No annual fee.
- Terms and conditions apply.

Is the Chase Freedom Unlimited worth it?<\/a> Alternatives:<\/strong> A 2 percent <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//credit-cards//cash-back//best-flat-rate-cash-back-credit-cards///">flat-rate cash back card<\/a> like the Citi Double Cash\u00ae Card could be better if you\u2019re focused on flat-rate rewards. A card designed for everyday spending, like the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card or the Blue Cash Everyday\u00ae Card from American Express could also be more lucrative as a standalone option.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"Editor's take","pros":["With solid earning rates, a decent sign-up bonus, and a strong intro APR offer, this is a great card for any rewards enthusiast.","You can combine this card\u2019s rewards with other premium Chase rewards to unlock more value through travel redemptions and partners."],"cons":["A few rival no-annual-fee cards carry a higher rewards rate on general spending.","The welcome offer could require more effort to earn the typical $200 value other cards can deliver."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_cashBack","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":"Its solid base rewards rate and boosted rates in practical categories make it a great pick for everyday spending."},"program":null,"tags":[{"name":"0% Introductory APR","image":"c12c6fbd562a494517625a65bbb1e71e.png"},{"name":"Cash Back","image":"0fcfc350-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Concierge Service","image":"9a88b402c09f511d28190e3d832d539f.png"},{"name":"EMV","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png"},{"name":"Excellent Credit","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Extended Warranty Program","image":"9cebe165fee20278a857330672d7df78.png"},{"name":"Good Credit","image":"88dfa120-bd19-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Grocery","image":null},{"name":"Low Interest","image":"85a8ad80-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Mobile Pay Ready","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png"},{"name":"No Annual Fee","image":"4226595fe40f1186714c2263039b7df0.png"},{"name":"Popular","image":"4b16a0f0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg"},{"name":"Purchase Protection","image":"9524b9f2b1d3c84068061b9c0f720bcd.png"},{"name":"Rewards","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Travel Accident Insurance","image":"9148b97046b15a99a3744622d7b3b285.png"},{"name":"Unsecured credit card","image":"1c40e1f0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg"},{"name":"Zero Fraud Liability","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png"}]})" >

Best card for everyday spending

Add to compare

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Bankrate score

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.

Bankrate review

Recommended credit score: 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.

Apply now

on Chase's secure site

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.

Up to $300 cash back

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% cash back on all other purchases.

1.5% - 5%

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

20.49% - 29.24% Variable

Why you’ll like this card: Its solid base rewards rate and boosted rates in practical categories make it a great pick for everyday spending.

- 5% 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% 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service.
- 1.5% 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
What we love: This unique card not only earns an elevated rewards rate on all purchases, but also gives you an edge over similar cards with its year-round dining and drugstore bonus categories. If you want to pick one card and stick with it, this is a great choice.

Learn more: Is the Chase Freedom Unlimited worth it?

Alternatives: A 2 percent flat-rate cash back card like the Citi Double Cash® Card could be better if you’re focused on flat-rate rewards. A card designed for everyday spending, like the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card or the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express could also be more lucrative as a standalone option.
Pros

With solid earning rates, a decent sign-up bonus, and a strong intro APR offer, this is a great card for any rewards enthusiast.

You can combine this card’s rewards with other premium Chase rewards to unlock more value through travel redemptions and partners.

Cons

A few rival no-annual-fee cards carry a higher rewards rate on general spending.

The welcome offer could require more effort to earn the typical $200 value other cards can deliver.
- Intro Offer: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
- Enjoy 6.5% 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; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
- After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and

Best rewards credit cards of July 2024

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Table of contents

Why choose Bankrate

Best Rewards Credit Cards for July 2024

Table of contents

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

American Express® Gold Card

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Discover it® Cash Back

Chase Freedom Unlimited®