Best Cash-Back Credit Cards of 2024

What is a cash back credit card?

A cash back credit card is a type of credit card where the lender rewards you for spending in certain categories by offering you cash back. For example, you may get 2% cash back on your groceries, so for every $100 spent, you would earn $2 in cash back.

How does a cash back credit card work?

Generally, a cash back credit card works the same way as any other credit card; you apply, are given a maximum credit limit and an interest rate (APR) that will apply to any balance you hold from one month to the next. Each month you are required to pay at least the minimum payment.

A cash back credit card differs because when you spend on certain categories or in certain stores, the lender will give you cash back on those purchases. This is usually 1-5% of what you spent. This will then accumulate in your account for you to redeem later.

What can a cash back credit card be used for?

Cash back credit cards can technically be used for any purchase you can make with a card, but you’ll want to use it for whatever earns you cash back. For most cards, this is daily spending, such as gas, groceries, and restaurants, but it can apply in other areas.

Who should consider getting a cash back credit card?

Cash back credit cards work best for those who are good at handling their finances and have a habit of paying their entire credit card balance off each month. Generally, this will be people with good and excellent credit, and it’s often difficult to qualify for cash back credit cards if you don’t.

Can you get cash back with a credit card?

If you’re talking about asking the cashier to give you cash back when you pay for a purchase with your card, you may be able to, but this is called a cash advance. A cash advance often comes with additional fees.

A cash back credit card will offer you cash back indirectly – so your cash back will accumulate in your account and you will need to access it through an online portal to choose how you would like to redeem it.

What are the different types of cash back credit cards?

There are generally 3 different types of cash back credit cards:

• Flat-Rate: with a flat-rate card, you’ll get the same rate of cash back for everything you spend on the card, regardless of category. That means if you spend $1,000 on your card one month with a 1% flat rate, you’ll get $10 in cash back. Rates for this kind of card are usually low, between 1% and 2%.
• Rotating: This type of card is where the categories (usually bonus categories, not the main ones) change every 3 months or so. Most of these cards offer a flat rate for their main categories (around 1%) and then up to 5% for the bonus categories. Spending on these categories usually has a limit, but they can be particularly useful around the holidays, for example.
• Tiered: this type of card offers you a certain percentage of cash back depending on how much you spend (this is sometimes across all spending or in a particular category). For example, you may get 1% cash back for the first $500, 1.5% for the next, and so on. There is usually a limit to how much you can spend.

What are the pros and cons of reward credit cards?

PROS

• They often offer you cash back for everyday expenses, making them more affordable
• Many have no annual fees
• Many offer a good welcome bonus (so you may be able to profit from them!)

CONS

• You may feel encouraged to buy more because you’ll earn more rewards
• Your credit card company may encourage you to spend more
• Some have annual fees
• You may lose all the benefits if you miss a payment or don’t use it for some time
• The APR is often high, so keeping a balance will negate all rewards
• Most cards have a maximum spending limit for rewards
• Most have minimum spending to access rewards

Which type of credit card gives me the most cash back?

This depends on what you spend the most on each month. For some, a flat-rate cash back card may offer the most, while others may find a revolving card more favorable. Take a good look at your real spending habits (not just the ones you think or wish you had!) to see what would give you the most benefits.

Are cash back credit cards taxable?

No, fortunately (in almost all cases) the rewards are seen as discounts or gifts, so they are not taxable.

Does cash back expire?

Yes, they usually expire. They will expire if the account is closed before you redeem them, or if your account is inactive for a period of time (this period varies). Most of the time, it will expire if your account has had 12 months of inactivity, or 3 years after it is earned. Make sure you read the details for your card.

How do I redeem my cash back rewards on a credit card?

Most card issuers provide a rewards portal online you can use to track, access, and redeem your cash back.

What credit score do I need to apply for a cash back credit card?

While it varies from provider to provider, you generally need a credit score of 670 or more to be approved.

What are the best cash back credit cards?

The best cash back credit cards frequently change as new offers and cards are introduced, but you need to think about what type of cash back credit card will be best for you. Make sure you pay attention to what categories of spending you’ll receive cash back on and if there are any exceptions. If you have an excellent credit score, don’t be afraid to apply for the cards with the best offers and terms.

Are cash back credit cards worth it?

If you’ve got a high credit score and are in the habit of paying off your credit cards in full each month, there’s little reason not to use one. Provided you won’t spend more than you would normally, you can get money back for things you would be spending on anyway. If you’re responsible and have an excellent credit score, they’re often a no-brainer.

Apply for a cash back credit card

Ready to apply for a cash back credit card? They can be an extremely smart way to spend, so make sure you compare the best cash back credit cards here to find the one that will offer you the best benefits. Once you’re ready to apply, follow the lender’s application process (most only take a few minutes) and you’ll often get approved on the spot. Best of all, you’ll soon be getting rewarded for spending you would have been doing anyway.