Choosing the right rewards credit card can be tricky because there are so many options, each with different reward rates, earning and redemption rules, and perks. Picking a less beneficial card could mean missing out on valuable rewards and potential savings. Here are our top 10 rewards credit cards to help you decide:
**1. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card**
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a great choice if you frequently spend on dining and travel. It offers high reward rates, various redemption options, and has a reasonable annual fee. You can enjoy a substantial sign-up bonus, flexible points redemption, and travel perks. However, it comes with an annual fee and doesn’t have an introductory APR period.
**2. American Express Platinum Card**
Ideal for frequent travelers, the American Express Platinum Card offers premium benefits such as airport lounge access and a flexible rewards program, including Membership Rewards points. On the downside, it has a steep annual fee of $695, and the rewards system can be complex. You’ll also need a good to excellent credit score to qualify.
**3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card**
The Capital One Venture Card is a top travel card with a straightforward rewards system. You earn 2 to 5 miles per dollar on purchases and get a sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles if you spend $4,000 in the first three months. While it has a low annual fee, it doesn’t offer partnerships with domestic airlines or high-end hotels.
**4. Citi Premier Card**
The Citi Premier Card is versatile, offering rewards not just for travel but also for spending at restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations. You earn three times points on these categories. The rewards don’t expire, although there is an annual fee and you’ll need a good to excellent credit score.
**5. Discover It Cash Back**
Great for moderate spenders, the Discover It Cash Back card offers 5% back on rotating categories and no annual fee. You need to activate the categories quarterly to get the most rewards, and the base reward rate is 1%.
**6. Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card**
This card is particularly beneficial for Bank of America customers with significant account balances. It offers loyalty rewards, airline fee credits, and other travel perks. There’s an annual fee and you’ll need a good to excellent credit score.
**7. Wells Fargo Active Cash Card**
For a straightforward cash back card, the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is excellent. It offers a flat 2% cash rewards rate on purchases without an annual fee. There are no bonus categories, but it does include an introductory APR.
**8. Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card**
If you’re a regular Hilton customer, this card offers impressive rewards on Hilton purchases and additional perks. It provides over $600 in annual statement credits and a free night award at participating hotels. However, it carries a high annual fee and the value of points is lower compared to other programs.
**9. Chase Freedom Unlimited**
This card offers a simple cash back program with a consistent rewards rate on all purchases. It doesn’t have an annual fee, includes an introductory APR period, and offers versatile rewards. You’ll need a good to excellent credit score to qualify.
**10. Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card**
Perfect for those who often fly with Southwest Airlines, this card provides bonus points, anniversary bonuses, and a $75 annual travel credit. It has no foreign transaction fees and can help you earn points toward A-list status. An annual fee applies, and there’s no introductory APR offer.
To sum up, when choosing a credit card, consider your spending habits, travel preferences, and financial goals to find the best fit. Always check the issuer’s website for the most current terms, conditions, and reward details, since they can change.