The Best Rewards Credit Cards to Maximize Your Spending
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.
