Rewards credit cards can help you earn cash back, travel perks, and other valuable benefits on everyday purchases. Whether you’re looking for simple cash-back rewards or premium travel perks, here are some of the best options available.
1. Best for Flat-Rate Cash Back: Chase Freedom Unlimited®
- Rewards: 1.5%–5% cash back on all purchases (higher rates in bonus categories)
- Bonus: Earn an additional 1.5% on everything (up to $20,000 spent in the first year)
- Perks: No annual fee, 0% intro APR for 15 months
- Best for: Those who want straightforward, unlimited cash back
2. Best for Travel: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Rewards: 5x points on travel booked through Chase, 3x on dining, 2x on other travel
- Bonus: 60,000 points after spending 4,000inthefirst3months(worth4,000inthefirst3months(worth750 in travel)
- Perks: $50 annual hotel credit, no foreign transaction fees
- Best for: Frequent travelers who want flexible redemption options
3. Best for Rotating Categories: Discover it® Cash Back
- Rewards: 5% cash back in rotating quarterly categories (up to $1,500 per quarter)
- Bonus: Dollar-for-dollar match on all cash back earned in the first year
- Perks: No annual fee, 0% intro APR for 15 months
- Best for: Savvy spenders who maximize bonus categories
4. Best for Premium Travel: The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Rewards: 5x points on flights and hotels (booked through Amex Travel)
- Bonus: 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $8,000 in the first 6 months
- Perks: Airport lounge access, annual travel credits, elite hotel status
- Best for: High spenders who want luxury travel benefits
5. Best for Business Spending: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
- Rewards: 3x points on travel, shipping, internet, and advertising (up to $150,000 per year)
- Bonus: 100,000 points after spending $15,000 in the first 3 months
- Perks: Cell phone protection, no foreign transaction fees
- Best for: Small business owners with high spending
How to Choose the Right Rewards Card
- Cash Back vs. Travel Points: Decide if you prefer simple cash back or travel rewards.
- Spending Habits: Pick a card that rewards your biggest spending categories (e.g., dining, gas, travel).
- Annual Fees: Weigh whether the card’s benefits justify the cost.
- Sign-Up Bonuses: Some cards offer big initial rewards, but require high spending to qualify.