Best Credit Cards for Rewards and Cash Back (2025)
Choosing the right credit card can earn you hundreds of dollars per year in rewards or cash back. With so many options available in 2025, it’s important to find a card that fits your spending habits, lifestyle, and financial goals.
Here’s a list of the top credit cards for rewards and cash back, plus a breakdown of their features and who they’re best for.
1. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
- Cash Back: 1.5% unlimited on all purchases
- Bonus Categories: 5% on travel through Chase, 3% on dining and drugstores
- Intro Offer: $200 after spending $500 in the first 3 months
- Annual Fee: $0
Best for: Everyday spenders who want flat-rate cash back with no annual fee.
2. Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards
- Cash Back: 3% on dining, groceries, entertainment, and streaming
- Other Rewards: 1% on all other purchases
- Intro Offer: $200 bonus after spending $500 in 3 months
- Annual Fee: $0
Best for: Foodies and entertainment lovers.
3. Citi Custom Cash℠ Card
- Cash Back: 5% on your top spending category (up to $500/month)
- Other Rewards: 1% on everything else
- Intro Offer: $200 bonus after $1,500 in 6 months
- Annual Fee: $0
Best for: People who want high rewards on a changing top expense each month.
4. Discover it® Cash Back
- Cash Back: 5% in rotating categories (on up to $1,500 per quarter) with activation
- Other Rewards: 1% on all purchases
- Special Offer: Cashback Match™ – all your first-year rewards matched
- Annual Fee: $0
Best for: Maximizing first-year rewards and category-based cash back.
5. American Express Blue Cash Everyday®
- Cash Back: 3% on groceries, online retail, and gas (up to $6,000/year)
- Other Rewards: 1% on everything else
- Intro Offer: $200 after $2,000 spend in 6 months
- Annual Fee: $0
Best for: Families with high grocery and gas expenses.
Tips for Choosing the Right Card
- Match it to your spending habits. If you dine out often, choose a card with restaurant rewards.
- Check your credit score. Most top cards require good to excellent credit (700+).
- Look for welcome bonuses. These can add $150–$300 in your first few months.
- Avoid high APRs if you plan to carry a balance—rewards won’t make up for interest charges.
How to Maximize Your Rewards
- Pay off your balance in full each month.
- Use the card for regular, budgeted purchases.
- Activate quarterly categories (for rotating cards like Discover it).
- Combine cards to optimize cash back across categories.
Final Thoughts
The best credit card is the one that aligns with your lifestyle and helps you earn without overspending. Use this guide to pick a rewards card that brings long-term value in 2025 and beyond.
FAQs
Do cash back cards have annual fees?
Many top cards in 2025 have no annual fee and still offer great rewards.
Will applying for a card hurt my credit?
It may cause a temporary dip, but responsible usage helps improve your credit over time.
Can I have more than one rewards card?
Yes. Many people use multiple cards to maximize rewards across categories.
What’s better—cash back or points?
Cash back is simpler and more flexible, but travel points may offer higher value for travelers.
Can I get a cash back card with average credit?
Some cards are available for fair credit, but rewards may be lower than premium cards.
