Best credit cards for everyday spending in December 2023

By
Christina Ly
Editor
Nick Ewen

Updated
Dec 06, 2023

Possibly the easiest way to earn rewards is to use one of the best credit cards for everyday spending instead of using your debit card or cash as your go-to form of payment. 

With several options at your disposal, settling on one or two credit cards that will provide you with decent returns in the form of cash back, points or miles can be tough. Luckily, TPG’s expert editors have compiled this list of the best credit cards for everyday spending — including those with generous sign-up bonuses, simple cash-back structures and lucrative travel perks to enhance your next trip.

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At The Points Guy, our goal is to help you maximize your travel experiences while minimizing spending. Our travel and credit cards experts share their own experiences and give honest analyses to help you make decisions that benefit you the most. While we do receive compensation through our credit card application links, ads, and clearly indicated sponsored content, our editorial content, points valuations and card analysis are entirely our own.

Since 2010, TPG has been dedicated to helping you make informed credit card and travel decisions. We know that credit card rewards can unlock travel that changes lives, and we strive every day to help our readers achieve their financial and travel goals.

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Best for airline miles
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4.5/5
  • 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
Intro Offer tooltip icon
Earn 75,000 miles
$95
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Why We Chose It

When it comes to simplicity and strong rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice for most travelers. You’ll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase with no bonus categories to memorize, making it an ideal card for those with busy lives. Read our review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

Pros

  • Simple earning structure.
  • Multiple transfer partners.
  • Flexible redemption options.

Cons

  • Lower transfer ratios for select partners.
  • Limited bonus categories.
  • No U.S. airline transfer partner.
  • 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
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4.5/5
Earn 75,000 miles
details
$95
2 - 5X miles
details

Why We Chose It

When it comes to simplicity and strong rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice for most travelers. You’ll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase with no bonus categories to memorize, making it an ideal card for those with busy lives. Read our review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

Pros

  • Simple earning structure.
  • Multiple transfer partners.
  • Flexible redemption options.

Cons

  • Lower transfer ratios for select partners.
  • Limited bonus categories.
  • No U.S. airline transfer partner.
  • 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

Pros

  • Simple earning structure.
  • Multiple transfer partners.
  • Flexible redemption options.

Cons

  • Lower transfer ratios for select partners.
  • Limited bonus categories.
  • No U.S. airline transfer partner.
  • 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
Best for U.S. supermarkets and gas in the U.S.
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4/5
  • 6% 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%)
  • 6% 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
  • 3% 3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more
  • 3% 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
  • 1% 1% Cash Back on other purchases
Intro Offer tooltip icon
Earn $250
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
19.24% - 29.99% Variable

Why We Chose It

The Blue Cash Preferred Card is one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. You’ll get a great return across a wide range of bonus categories, a solid welcome bonus and a low annual fee. Read our review of the Amex Blue Cash Preferred.

Pros

  • Multiple bonus categories. earning for bonus category.
  • High earning rates on bonus categories.

Cons

  • Capped earning for bonus category.
  • Annual fee.
  • Foreign transaction fees.
  • Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
  • $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
  • Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
  • Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.
  • 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
  • 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
  • 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
  • 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
  • 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
  • Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
  • Get up to $120 in statement credits annually when you pay for an auto-renewing subscription to Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. That's $10 in statement credits each month. Enrollment required.
  • Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. Enrollment required.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees
Best for U.S. supermarkets and gas in the U.S.
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4/5
Earn $250
details
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
1 - 6% cash-back
details

Why We Chose It

The Blue Cash Preferred Card is one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. You’ll get a great return across a wide range of bonus categories, a solid welcome bonus and a low annual fee. Read our review of the Amex Blue Cash Preferred.

Pros

  • Multiple bonus categories. earning for bonus category.
  • High earning rates on bonus categories.

Cons

  • Capped earning for bonus category.
  • Annual fee.
  • Foreign transaction fees.
  • Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
  • $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
  • Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
  • Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.
  • 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
  • 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
  • 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
  • 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
  • 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
  • Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
  • Get up to $120 in statement credits annually when you pay for an auto-renewing subscription to Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. That's $10 in statement credits each month. Enrollment required.
  • Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. Enrollment required.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees

Pros

  • Multiple bonus categories. earning for bonus category.
  • High earning rates on bonus categories.

Cons

  • Capped earning for bonus category.
  • Annual fee.
  • Foreign transaction fees.
  • Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
  • $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
  • Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
  • Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.
  • 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
  • 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
  • 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
  • 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
  • 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
  • Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
  • Get up to $120 in statement credits annually when you pay for an auto-renewing subscription to Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. That's $10 in statement credits each month. Enrollment required.
  • Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. Enrollment required.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees
BEST FOR CASH BACK
BEST FOR ENTERTAINMENT
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
3.5/5
  • 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
Intro Offer tooltip icon
$200
$0
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Why We Chose It

The Capital One SavorOne is a great cash-back credit card for beginners looking for a solid cash back structure and no annual fee. Dining, entertainment and groceries are high-value bonus categories, and it’s rare for a card to hit all three. Read our full review of the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card.

Pros

  • Unlimited bonus cash back.
  • Long period for introductory 0% APR. You’ll get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months (19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after, there's a 3% balance transfer fee for the first 15 months or 4% at a promotional APR offered at any other time.).

Cons

  • Small sign-up bonus.
  • Low cash-back on non-bonus earning categories.
  • Bonus rates on travel only apply through the Capital One portal.
  • 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
BEST FOR CASH BACK
BEST FOR ENTERTAINMENT
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
3.5/5
$200
details
$0
1 - 8% cash-back
details

Why We Chose It

The Capital One SavorOne is a great cash-back credit card for beginners looking for a solid cash back structure and no annual fee. Dining, entertainment and groceries are high-value bonus categories, and it’s rare for a card to hit all three. Read our full review of the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card.

Pros

  • Unlimited bonus cash back.
  • Long period for introductory 0% APR. You’ll get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months (19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after, there's a 3% balance transfer fee for the first 15 months or 4% at a promotional APR offered at any other time.).

Cons

  • Small sign-up bonus.
  • Low cash-back on non-bonus earning categories.
  • Bonus rates on travel only apply through the Capital One portal.
  • 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

Pros

  • Unlimited bonus cash back.
  • Long period for introductory 0% APR. You’ll get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months (19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after, there's a 3% balance transfer fee for the first 15 months or 4% at a promotional APR offered at any other time.).

Cons

  • Small sign-up bonus.
  • Low cash-back on non-bonus earning categories.
  • Bonus rates on travel only apply through the Capital One portal.
  • 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
BEST FOR NO-FRILLS CASH-BACK REWARDS
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4/5
  • 2% 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.
  • 5% 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.
Intro Offer tooltip icon
$200 cash back
$0
19.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

Why We Chose It

The Citi Double Cash Card caters to beginners establishing good credit habits, since users will earn 2% cash back; 1% when they buy and 1% when they pay their statement. The Citi Double Cash is a great pick for those looking for the utmost simplicity and want cash back in their pocket. Read our full review of the Citi Double Cash here.

Pros

  • Earning 2% back on every purchase is an industry-leading return on everyday spending for a no-annual-fee credit card.
  • Now that you have the ability to convert rewards to ThankYou points with an eligible card, your redemption options are even more flexible.
  • It’s great for those looking to consolidate debt, since it offers new cardmembers 18 months of 0% intro APR on balance transfers made. After that, the variable APR of 19.24% - 29.24% applies.

Cons

  • Those looking to make a balance transfer will have to pay 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).
  • 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).
BEST FOR NO-FRILLS CASH-BACK REWARDS
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4/5
$200 cash back
details
$0
2 - 5% cash-back
details

Why We Chose It

The Citi Double Cash Card caters to beginners establishing good credit habits, since users will earn 2% cash back; 1% when they buy and 1% when they pay their statement. The Citi Double Cash is a great pick for those looking for the utmost simplicity and want cash back in their pocket. Read our full review of the Citi Double Cash here.

Pros

  • Earning 2% back on every purchase is an industry-leading return on everyday spending for a no-annual-fee credit card.
  • Now that you have the ability to convert rewards to ThankYou points with an eligible card, your redemption options are even more flexible.
  • It’s great for those looking to consolidate debt, since it offers new cardmembers 18 months of 0% intro APR on balance transfers made. After that, the variable APR of 19.24% - 29.24% applies.

Cons

  • Those looking to make a balance transfer will have to pay 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).
  • 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).

Pros

  • Earning 2% back on every purchase is an industry-leading return on everyday spending for a no-annual-fee credit card.
  • Now that you have the ability to convert rewards to ThankYou points with an eligible card, your redemption options are even more flexible.
  • It’s great for those looking to consolidate debt, since it offers new cardmembers 18 months of 0% intro APR on balance transfers made. After that, the variable APR of 19.24% - 29.24% applies.

Cons

  • Those looking to make a balance transfer will have to pay 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).
  • 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).
Best for beginners
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4.5/5
  • 5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • 3x 3x on dining.
  • 2x 2x on all other travel purchases, plus more.
Intro Offer tooltip icon
60,000 bonus points
$95
21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Why We Chose It

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit card on the market. Offering an excellent return on travel and dining purchases, the card packs a ton of value that easily offsets its $95 annual fee. Cardholders can redeem points at 1.25 cents each for travel booked through Chase or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 valuable airline and hotel partners. Read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

Pros

  • Multiple bonus categories.
  • Valuable transfer partners.
  • Annual hotel statement credit.
  • Premium travel protection benefits.

Cons

  • Annual fee.
  • Subject to Chase’s 5/24 policy.
  • 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
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4.5/5
60,000 bonus points
details
$95
2 - 5X points
details

Why We Chose It

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit card on the market. Offering an excellent return on travel and dining purchases, the card packs a ton of value that easily offsets its $95 annual fee. Cardholders can redeem points at 1.25 cents each for travel booked through Chase or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 valuable airline and hotel partners. Read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

Pros

  • Multiple bonus categories.
  • Valuable transfer partners.
  • Annual hotel statement credit.
  • Premium travel protection benefits.

Cons

  • Annual fee.
  • Subject to Chase’s 5/24 policy.
  • 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

Pros

  • Multiple bonus categories.
  • Valuable transfer partners.
  • Annual hotel statement credit.
  • Premium travel protection benefits.

Cons

  • Annual fee.
  • Subject to Chase’s 5/24 policy.
  • 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
Best for cash-back beginners
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
3/5
  • 3% 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
  • 3% 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
  • 3% 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
  • 1% 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
Intro Offer tooltip icon
Earn $200
$0
19.24% - 29.99% Variable

Why We Chose It

The Blue Cash Everyday card is a good option for people who want a simple cash back structure with no annual fee. You’ll earn bonus cash back rewards on popular bonus categories, including U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations. Read our full review of the Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express.

Pros

  • 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets
  • No annual fee.
  • 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and U.S. online retail purchases
  • Amex Offers, which earn you statement credits or extra points on purchases with a wide variety of merchants. (Enrollment required)

Cons

  • There is a $6,000 spending cap on the U.S. supermarket bonus category, which may not work for those with larger annual grocery spend.
  • You’ll have to pay a foreign transaction fee on purchases abroad, so it’s not a great choice to take with you when traveling outside of the U.S.
  • Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
  • No Annual Fee.
  • Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
  • 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
  • 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year then 1%.
  • 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
  • Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday® Card. Enrollment required.
  • Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
3/5
Earn $200
details
$0
1 - 3% cash-back
details

Why We Chose It

The Blue Cash Everyday card is a good option for people who want a simple cash back structure with no annual fee. You’ll earn bonus cash back rewards on popular bonus categories, including U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations. Read our full review of the Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express.

Pros

  • 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets
  • No annual fee.
  • 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and U.S. online retail purchases
  • Amex Offers, which earn you statement credits or extra points on purchases with a wide variety of merchants. (Enrollment required)

Cons

  • There is a $6,000 spending cap on the U.S. supermarket bonus category, which may not work for those with larger annual grocery spend.
  • You’ll have to pay a foreign transaction fee on purchases abroad, so it’s not a great choice to take with you when traveling outside of the U.S.
  • Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
  • No Annual Fee.
  • Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
  • 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
  • 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year then 1%.
  • 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
  • Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday® Card. Enrollment required.
  • Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees

Pros

  • 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets
  • No annual fee.
  • 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and U.S. online retail purchases
  • Amex Offers, which earn you statement credits or extra points on purchases with a wide variety of merchants. (Enrollment required)

Cons

  • There is a $6,000 spending cap on the U.S. supermarket bonus category, which may not work for those with larger annual grocery spend.
  • You’ll have to pay a foreign transaction fee on purchases abroad, so it’s not a great choice to take with you when traveling outside of the U.S.
  • Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
  • No Annual Fee.
  • Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
  • 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
  • 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year then 1%.
  • 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
  • Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday® Card. Enrollment required.
  • Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees
Best for drugstores
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4/5
  • 5% Enjoy 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;
  • 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
Intro Offer tooltip icon
Special Offer: Unlimited Matched Cash Back
$0
20.49% - 29.24% Variable

Why We Chose It

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a surprisingly powerful card that earns at least 1.5% back on everything. However, it becomes a standout card if you pair it with a card that earns transferable Ultimate Rewards points, doubling their potential value. Read our full review of the Chase Freedom Unlimited.

Pros

  • Multiple bonus categories.
  • No annual fee.
  • Incredible value when paired with a premium Chase card.

Cons

  • Limited card perks and benefits.
  • Foreign transaction fees.
  • 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
Best for drugstores
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4/5
Special Offer: Unlimited Matched Cash Back
details
$0
1.5 - 5% cash-back
details

Why We Chose It

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a surprisingly powerful card that earns at least 1.5% back on everything. However, it becomes a standout card if you pair it with a card that earns transferable Ultimate Rewards points, doubling their potential value. Read our full review of the Chase Freedom Unlimited.

Pros

  • Multiple bonus categories.
  • No annual fee.
  • Incredible value when paired with a premium Chase card.

Cons

  • Limited card perks and benefits.
  • Foreign transaction fees.
  • 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

Pros

  • Multiple bonus categories.
  • No annual fee.
  • Incredible value when paired with a premium Chase card.

Cons

  • Limited card perks and benefits.
  • Foreign transaction fees.
  • 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
BEST FOR FLAT-RATE CASH-BACK
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
3.5/5
  • 5% 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
  • 1.5% Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
Intro Offer tooltip icon
$200
$0
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Why We Chose It

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card is a decent option for those in need of a straightforward cash back card. However, there are other options that offer more flexibility to redeem your rewards. Read our full review of the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card.

Pros

  • Unlimited cash back on all purchases.
  • Simple earning structure.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • No annual fee.

Cons

  • Limited card perks and benefits.
  • Lack of bonus categories can limit earning potential.
  • Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
  • $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
  • Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
  • 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
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
3.5/5
$200
details
$0
1.5 - 5% cash-back
details

Why We Chose It

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card is a decent option for those in need of a straightforward cash back card. However, there are other options that offer more flexibility to redeem your rewards. Read our full review of the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card.

Pros

  • Unlimited cash back on all purchases.
  • Simple earning structure.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • No annual fee.

Cons

  • Limited card perks and benefits.
  • Lack of bonus categories can limit earning potential.
  • Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
  • $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
  • Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
  • 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

Pros

  • Unlimited cash back on all purchases.
  • Simple earning structure.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • No annual fee.

Cons

  • Limited card perks and benefits.
  • Lack of bonus categories can limit earning potential.
  • Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
  • $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
  • Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
  • 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
Best for business cash back
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4/5
  • 1.5% Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
Intro Offer tooltip icon
$900
$0
18.49% - 24.49% Variable

Why We Chose It

The Ink Business Unlimited’ sign-up gives you $900 cash back spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening plus unlimited 1.5% cash back on every business purchase. It fills in rewards gaps not covered by the Ink Business Cash Credit Card and the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card. You can maximize this card by pairing it with cards including the Chase Sapphire Reserve, the Chase Sapphire Preferred and the Ink Business Preferred. Read our review of the Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card.

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • Unlimited cash back.
  • High sign-up bonus.
  • Incredible value when paired with a premium Chase card.

Cons

  • No bonus categories.
  • High spend needed for sign-up bonus.
  • No travel protection.
  • Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
  • No Annual Fee
  • Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
  • 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.
  • 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
  • Member FDIC
Best for business cash back
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4/5
$900
details
$0
1.5% cash-back
details

Why We Chose It

The Ink Business Unlimited’ sign-up gives you $900 cash back spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening plus unlimited 1.5% cash back on every business purchase. It fills in rewards gaps not covered by the Ink Business Cash Credit Card and the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card. You can maximize this card by pairing it with cards including the Chase Sapphire Reserve, the Chase Sapphire Preferred and the Ink Business Preferred. Read our review of the Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card.

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • Unlimited cash back.
  • High sign-up bonus.
  • Incredible value when paired with a premium Chase card.

Cons

  • No bonus categories.
  • High spend needed for sign-up bonus.
  • No travel protection.
  • Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
  • No Annual Fee
  • Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
  • 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.
  • 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
  • Member FDIC

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • Unlimited cash back.
  • High sign-up bonus.
  • Incredible value when paired with a premium Chase card.

Cons

  • No bonus categories.
  • High spend needed for sign-up bonus.
  • No travel protection.
  • Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
  • No Annual Fee
  • Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
  • 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.
  • 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
  • Member FDIC
Best for everyday business expenses
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4/5
  • 2X Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners
  • 1X 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter
Intro Offer tooltip icon
15,000 Membership Rewards® points
No annual fee
18.49% - 26.49% Variable

Why We Chose It

The Blue Business Plus is a great card for small business owners who want to earn lucrative Membership Rewards points on everyday business spending. It was created specifically for sole proprietorships and start-ups with limited revenue who would appreciate a card with an introductory interest rate and expanded buying power. Read our review of the Amex Blue Business Plus.

Pros

  • No annual fee.
  • Multiple transfer partners.
  • Travel and shopping protections.

Cons

  • Cap on bonus earning.
  • Limited bonus categories.
  • Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% - 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening. APR will not exceed 29.99%
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
  • You’ve got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
  • *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors.
  • No Annual Fee
  • Terms Apply
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
4/5
15,000 Membership Rewards® points
details
No annual fee
1 - 2X points
details

Why We Chose It

The Blue Business Plus is a great card for small business owners who want to earn lucrative Membership Rewards points on everyday business spending. It was created specifically for sole proprietorships and start-ups with limited revenue who would appreciate a card with an introductory interest rate and expanded buying power. Read our review of the Amex Blue Business Plus.

Pros

  • No annual fee.
  • Multiple transfer partners.
  • Travel and shopping protections.

Cons

  • Cap on bonus earning.
  • Limited bonus categories.
  • Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% - 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening. APR will not exceed 29.99%
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
  • You’ve got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
  • *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors.
  • No Annual Fee
  • Terms Apply

Pros

  • No annual fee.
  • Multiple transfer partners.
  • Travel and shopping protections.

Cons

  • Cap on bonus earning.
  • Limited bonus categories.
  • Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% - 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening. APR will not exceed 29.99%
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
  • You’ve got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
  • *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors.
  • No Annual Fee
  • Terms Apply
Best for travel
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
3.5/5
  • 2X 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases
  • 1.5X 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases
Intro Offer tooltip icon
60,000 points
$95
20.24% - 27.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Why We Chose It

The Bank of America Premium Rewards card is great for using the points earned for rewards that normal airline miles or credit card points can’t cover. Bank of America Preferred Rewards® members get a 25%-75% rewards bonus on every purchase. New cardmembers earn a 60,000-point sign-up bonus after spending $4,000 in the first 90 days of account opening. Read our review of the Bank of America Premium Rewards card.

Pros

  • Annual airline incidental credit.
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Travel protections.

Cons

  • Few bonus categories.
  • More valuable if you are a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member.
  • Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
  • If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87-2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
  • Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
  • Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
  • Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Low $95 annual fee.
  • 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.
TPG Editor's Rating tooltip icon
3.5/5
60,000 points
details
$95
1.5 - 2X points
details

Why We Chose It

The Bank of America Premium Rewards card is great for using the points earned for rewards that normal airline miles or credit card points can’t cover. Bank of America Preferred Rewards® members get a 25%-75% rewards bonus on every purchase. New cardmembers earn a 60,000-point sign-up bonus after spending $4,000 in the first 90 days of account opening. Read our review of the Bank of America Premium Rewards card.

Pros

  • Annual airline incidental credit.
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Travel protections.

Cons

  • Few bonus categories.
  • More valuable if you are a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member.
  • Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
  • If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87-2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
  • Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
  • Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
  • Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Low $95 annual fee.
  • 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.

Pros

  • Annual airline incidental credit.
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Travel protections.

Cons

  • Few bonus categories.
  • More valuable if you are a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member.
  • Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
  • If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87-2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
  • Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
  • Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
  • Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Low $95 annual fee.
  • 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.

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Comparing the best credit cards for everyday spending

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Credit card Best for Intro offer Earning Rate Annual Fee
Best for airline miles Earn 75,000
miles
2 - 5X miles
tooltip icon
2 - 5X miles
details
$95
Best for U.S. supermarkets and gas in the U.S. Earn $250
1 - 6% cash-back
tooltip icon
1 - 6% cash-back
details
$0
intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Best for entertainment $200
1 - 8% cash-back
tooltip icon
1 - 8% cash-back
details
$0
Best for no-frills cash-back rewards $ 200
cash back
2 - 5% cash-back
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2 - 5% cash-back
details
$0
Best for beginners 60,000
bonus points
2 - 5X points
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2 - 5X points
details
$95
Best for cash-back beginners Earn $200
1 - 3% cash-back
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1 - 3% cash-back
details
$0
Best for flat-rate cash-back $200
1.5 - 5% cash-back
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1.5 - 5% cash-back
details
$0
Best for business cash back $900
1.5% cash-back
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1.5% cash-back
details
$0
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
Best for everyday business expenses 15,000
 Membership Rewards® points
1 - 2X points
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1 - 2X points
details
No
annual fee
Best for travel 60,000
points
1.5 - 2X points
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1.5 - 2X points
details
$95
Best for drugstores Special Offer: Unlimited Matched Cash Back
1.5 - 5% cash-back
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1.5 - 5% cash-back
details
$0

Frequently asked questions

  • There is no single best card for everyday spending — just the best one for your situation.

    The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a wonderful starter card to begin accruing treasured Ultimate Rewards points. The Blue Business Plus offers an impressive 4% return on general spending (based on TPG valuations) with a limit of $50,000 each calendar year to earn 2 points per dollar (then 1 point per dollar thereafter). In comparison, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers a valuable sign-up bonus paired with more than a 2 miles  per dollar return on everyday spending long-term.

    The Citi Double Cash® Card (see rates & fees) earns 2% cash back (1% when you buy, plus 1% as you pay), which can be converted to ThankYou Points via a linked ThankYou account. And the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card is a superb option if you have a high-balance relationship with Bank of America’s Preferred Rewards® program.

    Ultimately, all cards on this list are valuable for everyday spending. Which one you choose will be determined by your spending habits and goals.

  • Using your credit card for everyday purchases is a great way to earn rewards and build your credit. With responsible usage, using a credit card for everyday spending can help you save money by earning cash back or reward points on money you were already spending. 

    Credit cards do not have to be reserved for an emergency or an unexpected expense. Using a credit card for the spending you already do and paying it off every month is a great way to increase your credit score and improve your financial health. 

  • Choosing a credit card for everyday purchases is a very personal decision. The best credit card for your wallet will vary based on your spending habits and financial goals. 

    The best everyday spending credit card for any two people will rarely be the same. Someone who is looking to travel more and wants to accumulate transferable points may find themselves interested in the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card so that they can earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points on their daily purchases. On the other hand, a couple who rarely travels may find the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, which earns high cash-back rates on U.S. supermarkets, streaming subscriptions and gas stations, to be a better fit. 

    Ultimately, choosing a credit card for everyday purchases should be about which card will be most beneficial for your general spending habits. 

    Related: From new moms to frequent flyers: Here are the credit cards TPG staffers use

More details on our best credit cards for everyday spending

Chase Freedom Unlimited

Not to be confused with the Chase Freedom Flex that offers 5% cash back (5 points per dollar spent) on rotating quarterly bonus categories on up to $1,500 in combined purchases each quarter you activate, the Chase Freedom Unlimited earns at least 1.5% cash back (1.5 points per dollar spent) spent on everything. Plus, Chase added three higher-earning categories in recent years, giving cardholders an opportunity to boost their rewards on the following:

  • 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
  • 3% back on dining.
  • 3% back on drugstore purchases.

Points earned from the Chase Freedom Unlimited can be converted into Ultimate Rewards points if you have a premium Chase credit card such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve, or Ink Business Preferred Credit Card. If not, you can redeem your cash back as a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts, or in the Ultimate Rewards portal for travel, for shopping at Amazon.com or buying gift cards.

TPG values Ultimate Rewards points at 2 cents each, making the Chase Freedom Unlimited welcome offer even more valuable when you transfer those earnings to one of Chase’s full-fledged Ultimate Rewards cards.

The Freedom Unlimited is a perfect starter card and an ideal pairing with one of Chase’s premium cards but it is subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule — which means that you’ll be automatically denied if you’ve opened five or more new cards in the previous 24 months.

Read our Chase Freedom Unlimited full card review for more information.

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Official application link: Chase Freedom Unlimited.

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Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Long before the Capital One Venture began adding hotel and airline transfer partners, the card was a fan favorite (and The Points Guy Brian Kelly’s favorite), thanks to a strong earning rate of 2 miles per dollar on all purchases. While you can still redeem miles at a fixed rate of 1 cent each to eliminated eligible purchases made in the last 90 days, you also have the option to transfer them to some truly exceptional frequent flyer programs — including Avianca LifeMiles, Air Canada Aeroplan, Flying Blue and more — to unlock outsized value.

Read our review of the Capital One Venture card for more details.

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Official application link: Capital One Venture.

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The Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express

Welcome offer: None.

The Blue Business Plus card is a favorite among Membership Rewards enthusiasts because it’s one of the only no-annual-fee cards (see rates and fees) to earn full-fledged transferable points. The credit card earns 2 points per dollar spent on all purchases up to $50,000 in a year (then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter). TPG values Membership Rewards points at 2 cents each, meaning this card provides a 4% return on all spending.

Potentially, you could net 100,000 Membership Rewards points a year by spending $50,000, which TPG values at $2,000. There are many ways to redeem Membership Rewards points for maximum value.

The only downside of this card is that it’s a business card, not a personal card, so not everyone can apply for it (though you may be more eligible than you think).

Read the Blue Business Plus card review for more details.

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Official application link: Amex Blue Business Plus.

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Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

As the lone Bank of America card on our list, the Bank of America Premium Rewards card packs a punch, with a sign-up bonus worth 60,000 points ($600) after spending $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days on account opening. It also includes an up to $100 annual airline incidental fee statement credit, meaning you come out ahead every year you keep the card open after paying the $95 annual fee.

Points can be redeemed for travel, cash back or even a cash deposit into a linked Bank of America or Merrill account. The card earns 1.5 points per dollar on non-bonus spending and 2 points per dollar on travel and dining, which means this is a decent but not exceptional card for everyday purchases. However, the card becomes more attractive when combined with Bank of America’s Preferred Rewards® program.

To significantly increase the value of your spending return, you’ll need an eligible Bank of America checking account with an average daily balance of at least $20,000. The largest bonus is available to customers with a balance of $100,000 or more — at that level, you’ll earn 3.5 points per dollar spent on dining and travel, and an impressive 2.62 points per dollar spent on non-bonus spending.

Read the Bank of America Premium Rewards review for more details.

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Official application link: Bank of America Premium Rewards.

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Chase Ink Business Unlimited

The Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card earns 1.5% cash back on every purchase. The card is an excellent addition to the Chase small-business lineup and currently offers a sign-up bonus of $900 (after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first three months after account opening). That’s unusually large for a cash-back card with no annual fee.

You can qualify for a business credit card, whether you sell stuff online or work as a sole proprietor. Many freelance jobs or side hustles are considered businesses and eligible for a business credit card.

What makes the Ink Business Unlimited a phenomenal everyday card is that beyond earning 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases, you can also combine your rewards with Chase Ultimate Rewards credit cards (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Chase Sapphire Reserve and Ink Business Preferred). This gives you the ability to transfer points to travel partners or receive between 1.25-1.5 cents (depending on whether you have the Sapphire Preferred or Sapphire Reserve) when you redeem points toward travel reservations made through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal.

This card is very similar to the popular Chase Freedom Unlimited. The only drawback is that you may have a tougher time getting approved for the Ink as a business card than for the personal Chase Freedom Unlimited.

Related: Ink Business Unlimited card review 

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Official application link: Ink Business Unlimited.

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Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

This card only earns 1% cash back on everyday expenses. However, the real reason the Blue Cash Preferred is a top everyday spending card is for its incredibly lucrative bonus categories that hit home with many people.

The categories are as follows:

  • 6% back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions (Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, etc.).
  • 6% back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per calendar year) then 1% after that.
  • 3% back on transit (parking, tolls, ride-share, subway, etc.).
  • 3% back at U.S. gas stations.
  • 1% everywhere else.
  • Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
  • Terms apply. 

See the Blue Cash Preferred card review for more details.

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Official application link: Amex Blue Cash Preferred.

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Related credit card guides

For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred card, please click here.

For rates and fees of the Blue Business Plus card, please click here.

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