Best rewards credit cards of May 2025
Unlock a world of perks with the best rewards credit cards. Whether you’re a savvy spender or frequent traveler, these cards offer valuable incentives like cash back, points, and travel rewards. Discover how credit card rewards can enhance your lifestyle and boost your financial well-being. Our experts have compiled a list of the best credit cards for rewards, including top picks for cash back, travel, and more. Explore the best rewards credit cards and find the perfect option for you.
OUR FEATURED CARD LIST
CardRatings’ top picks for the best rewards credit cards
Looking for the best rewards credit card? Our team of experts constantly reviews the market, evaluating everything from earning potential and redemption options to annual fees and APRs. We’ve done the research so you can find the perfect card to maximize your rewards and achieve your financial goals.
Why we like it
Cardholders can earn what amounts to unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase made – 1% when you make a purchase, and then an additional 1% when you pay for those purchases in full. Since this credit card has no annual fee, as long as you're paying off your balance each month, you'll essentially be getting paid to use it, making this a great everyday go-to card. Citi is a CardRatings advertiser.
Cardholders can earn what amounts to unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase made – 1% when you make a purchase, and then an additional 1% when you pay for those purchases in full. Since this credit card has no annual fee, as long as you're paying off your balance each month, you'll essentially be getting paid to use it, making this a great everyday go-to card. Citi is a CardRatings advertiser.
- This card encourages responsible use which is always a pro in our book.
- There's a lengthy intro 0% APR offer on balance transfers, which is a nice reward for anyone looking to transfer an existing balance.
- Savvy shoppers willing to employ a little more strategy might prefer cards with rotating bonus categories.
- This card charges foreign transaction fees, which you should keep in mind if you are planning to use it internationally.
Why we like it
Rotating-category cash-back cards generally offer the highest rewards earning out there; the catch is that your spending has to align with the bonus category. The nice thing about this card is that the rotating categories are typically popular spend categories meaning most cardholders are sure to benefit from the max reward rate all year long.
Rotating-category cash-back cards generally offer the highest rewards earning out there; the catch is that your spending has to align with the bonus category. The nice thing about this card is that the rotating categories are typically popular spend categories meaning most cardholders are sure to benefit from the max reward rate all year long.
- Earning 5% back in rotating categories means you can plan your spending and really maximize that earning without being stuck there for longer than one quarter at a time.
- The welcome bonus has the potential to be very lucrative if you plan your spending well.
- This card features no annual fee plus no foreign transaction fees so it's a good rewards card to use abroad.
- This isn't the card for someone who just wants to pay for everything with the same card and not employ any strategy. Remember, you only earn 1% cash back if the purchase doesn't fall under one of the bonus categories.
Why we like it
Cardholder-choice cards are still fairly rare, but we like that they're starting to show up more because they allow each consumer to truly make the most out of their unique spending. With this card, you can chose from six categories where you want to earn top rewards – and you can change your mind as often as once per calendar month.
Cardholder-choice cards are still fairly rare, but we like that they're starting to show up more because they allow each consumer to truly make the most out of their unique spending. With this card, you can chose from six categories where you want to earn top rewards – and you can change your mind as often as once per calendar month.
- No annual fee. That's always appreciated.
- There is no expiration on the rewards, as long as your account remains open. That's always appreciated, too.
- If you're a Preferred Rewards client with Bank of America, you can earn a 25%-75% cash back bonus on each purchase depending upon your Preferred Rewards tier.
- This card charges foreign transaction fees, which should give you pause if you plan on doing a lot of international travel and want to use this as your go-to card.
Why we like it
You already spend money every week at the supermarket, and if you have a car, chances are you're spending at the gas pump on a weekly basis as well. Why not get cash back for the purchases you have to make? American Express is a CardRatings advertiser.
You already spend money every week at the supermarket, and if you have a car, chances are you're spending at the gas pump on a weekly basis as well. Why not get cash back for the purchases you have to make? American Express is a CardRatings advertiser.
- This card offers a significant percentage of cash back on purchases made at U.S. supermarkets, up to a certain spending limit per year. This translates to a substantial maximum amount of cash back on supermarket purchases alone. You can also earn a good percentage of unlimited cash back on transit and gas purchases at U.S. gas stations.
- There is a nice 0% APR introductory offer on purchases and balance transfers.
- The welcome bonus is attractive and can be earned with even moderate spending.
- There is an annual fee to consider. If you don't plan to use the card regularly, it may be hard to offset this.
- This isn't the best card to travel abroad with as it charges a fee on foreign transactions.
Why we like it
Dining out is already fun on its own, but it's a whole lot more exciting when you know you're earning cash back while doing so! This card earns cardholders generous unlimited cash back on all dining out and entertainment purchases, making a night out on the town so much more fun. What's more, if your idea of a good time involves cooking up some new dish at home, you'll be pleased to know that you also earn bonus rewards on your grocery store purchases. And, if your love of food needs a global escape, you'll appreciate that this card won't charge you foreign transaction fees when you use it while abroad.
Dining out is already fun on its own, but it's a whole lot more exciting when you know you're earning cash back while doing so! This card earns cardholders generous unlimited cash back on all dining out and entertainment purchases, making a night out on the town so much more fun. What's more, if your idea of a good time involves cooking up some new dish at home, you'll be pleased to know that you also earn bonus rewards on your grocery store purchases. And, if your love of food needs a global escape, you'll appreciate that this card won't charge you foreign transaction fees when you use it while abroad.
- The rewards offering is solid for a no-annual-fee card.
- There's a nice intro 0% APR offer on purchases and balance transfers .
- There are no foreign transaction fees, making it great for all of your foodie adventures both near and far.
- The rewards earned with the card are quite high for certain purchases, however if you are not someone who frequently eats out there are cards with higher rewards earning on grocery purchases and other categories.
- While this card doesn't charge an annual fee – a definite perk – depending on your spending, you might be better off paying a modest annual fee for additional rewards and bonus opportunities with another card.
Why we like it
If you're constantly on the road, thanks to the high price of gas you're probably spending a fortune every year at the pump. With this card you could help to offset this cost with a whopping five points earned on every $1 you spend on gas with 5% cash back earned on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent (1% cash back thereafter). Information has been collected independently by CardRatings and was neither reviewed nor provided by the card issuer.
If you're constantly on the road, thanks to the high price of gas you're probably spending a fortune every year at the pump. With this card you could help to offset this cost with a whopping five points earned on every $1 you spend on gas with 5% cash back earned on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent (1% cash back thereafter). Information has been collected independently by CardRatings and was neither reviewed nor provided by the card issuer.
- This is a good card if you have a large purchase on the horizon, or if you need some time to pay off an existing balance interest-free thanks to its intro 0% APR on balance transfers and purchases offer.
- This card is a nice option if you don't want to worry about rotating categories or category enrollments as it automatically earns you bonus rewards in the eligible category where you spend the most, whether that's on gas or in one of the other eligible bonus categories.
- If you're willing to keep up with rotating categories or a tiered-rewards structure, you may stand to earn more rewards with another card. That said, this card could complement other cards very nicely.
- This isn't a good card to travel internationally with as it charges a fee on foreign transactions.
Why we like it
This card is a fantastic entry point into the world of travel rewards, offering a trifecta of benefits: a generous signup bonus to kickstart your points balance, consistently strong rewards on everyday spending to keep it growing, and flexible redemption options so you can use your points how you want, whether it's for flights, hotels, or other travel expenses. It's an ideal choice for beginners looking to maximize travel rewards.
This card is a fantastic entry point into the world of travel rewards, offering a trifecta of benefits: a generous signup bonus to kickstart your points balance, consistently strong rewards on everyday spending to keep it growing, and flexible redemption options so you can use your points how you want, whether it's for flights, hotels, or other travel expenses. It's an ideal choice for beginners looking to maximize travel rewards.
- The welcome bonus on this card offers significant value, especially when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Maximize the value of your points by transferring them to one of Chase's many travel partners.
- 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, 2027.
- This card's rewards structure is great for specific spending habits, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. The bonus rewards are limited to select categories, so if those don't align with your typical purchases, another card might be a better fit.
- It’s not too steep, but there’s an annual fee to consider. Make sure you’ll use the card enough to offset this cost. Otherwise, you might want to consider a no-annual-fee card.
Why we like it
From gas and groceries to flights and fine dining, this card rewards virtually every aspect of your spending. But the real game-changer? The annual hotel savings benefit. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, this perk alone can offset the annual fee, making it a great choice for frequent travelers.
From gas and groceries to flights and fine dining, this card rewards virtually every aspect of your spending. But the real game-changer? The annual hotel savings benefit. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, this perk alone can offset the annual fee, making it a great choice for frequent travelers.
- No foreign transaction fees make this card ideal for international travel.
- Receive $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) booked through CitiTravel.com annually—a perk that can easily offset the annual fee.
- You stand to earn a ton of rewards on hotel purchases (plus car rentals and attractions) when booking on CitiTravel.com.
- It’s manageable, but don’t overlook the annual fee.
- Rewards are earned in the form of Citi ThankYou Points, so if you were hoping for cash back, you might want to consider something else.
Why we like it
This card offers incredible flexibility for redeeming miles, especially for air travel. Fly on any airline – no restrictions! Plus, the annual fee is surprisingly low considering the earning potential and redemption power, including the ability to transfer miles to multiple leading airline loyalty programs.
This card offers incredible flexibility for redeeming miles, especially for air travel. Fly on any airline – no restrictions! Plus, the annual fee is surprisingly low considering the earning potential and redemption power, including the ability to transfer miles to multiple leading airline loyalty programs.
- Earn bonus miles on a wide range of purchases, from flights to groceries, making it easy to accumulate rewards quickly.
- Get reimbursed for nearly any travel expense—from flights and hotels to Airbnb stays, car rentals, and even campsite bookings. Enjoy the freedom to travel how you want, without being tied to specific brands.
- Transfer miles to a variety of leading airline and hotel loyalty programs for even greater redemption flexibility.
- No foreign transaction fees make this card a great choice for both domestic and international spending.
- This card charges an annual fee. If you’re a casual credit card spender you may find it difficult to offset this cost.
- If you’re loyal to a particular airline or hotel you might benefit more with a card that earns extra rewards on purchases with that brand.
Why we like it
With this card, users will have the opportunity to rack up a bunch of rewards under a high spending cap. Because the spending cap is so high, this card could work well for medium sized businesses. Additionally, redeeming your points for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program means they will be worth 25% more; that makes the welcome offer worth as much as $1,125 in Chase Travel℠.
With this card, users will have the opportunity to rack up a bunch of rewards under a high spending cap. Because the spending cap is so high, this card could work well for medium sized businesses. Additionally, redeeming your points for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program means they will be worth 25% more; that makes the welcome offer worth as much as $1,125 in Chase Travel℠.
- You may save a lot in the future if you or your employees tend to drop, break or shatter your phones. This card offers cell phone insurance for the primary cardholder and employee phones on the same account.
- With the state of travel these days, you'll likely appreciate the trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance and trip delay reimbursement coverage.
- The business tools are helpful, as well; this card offers features such as bookkeeping integration and account alerts to help your accounting go more smoothly.
- There's a AnnualFees annual fee, which is only really a negative if you don't spend much on the card. The more you spend, the more you save, which means you can more than offset the fee with ease.
Why we like it
An annual fee this substantial demands significant value in return. Rest assured, this card delivers. The robust suite of perks alone justifies the cost, and that's just the beginning—the rewards program adds even more value.
An annual fee this substantial demands significant value in return. Rest assured, this card delivers. The robust suite of perks alone justifies the cost, and that's just the beginning—the rewards program adds even more value.
- The list of premium rewards offered to cardholder is lengthy. Be sure to check out the “additional details” tab to see just what all membership affords you!
- This card offers a generous welcome bonus, starting membership off on a fantastic foot.
- The annual fee can’t be overlooked. If you don’t think you’ll take advantage of the card’s numerous perks – which can easily offset this cost – you might want to consider a more affordable option.
- This card was really designed with the frequent traveler in mind. If you don’t fly often, this probably isn’t the best fit for your wallet.
Compare the best rewards credit cards by perks and features
Want to see how our picks for the best rewards credit cards stack up against each other? Our comparison tool makes it easy to compare up to threetwo cards at a time. Simply select the cards you’re interested in and we’ll automatically display their key perks and features side-by-side. With a quick glance, you can easily identify the card that best suits your needs and preferences.
Select up to 23 cards to compare side-by-side:
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Compare the best rewards credit cards by user ratings
By analyzing real-world user experiences, we have developed a robust rating system that reflects the performance and value of various credit cards based on consumer insights. This chart allows you to easily compare these ratings side-by-side, enabling informed decision-making based on the feedback of actual cardholders.
How did each of our winning cards rate according to you?
CardRatings commissioned Slice MR in November 2024 to survey 1,666 cardholders nationwide. Responses were given on a scale of 1-10 and respondents’ ratings were then averaged under broad topics.
How did each of our winning cards rate according to you?
CardRatings commissioned Slice MR in November 2024 to survey 1,666 cardholders nationwide. Responses were given on a scale of 1-10 and respondents’ ratings were then averaged under broad topics.
COST EFFECTIVENESS
REWARDS SATISFACTION
CUSTOMER SERVICE
WEBSITE/APP USABILITY
LIKELIHOOD OF CONTINUING TO USE
RECOMMEND TO A FRIEND/COLLEAGUE
Survey results by card
Select a card below to see the results for each card.
Survey methodology: CardRatings commissioned Slice MR in November 2024 to survey 1,666 cardholders nationwide. CardRatings’ website analytics from Jan. 1, 2024-Oct. 31, 2024 were used to determine a selection of the most popular cards. Responses to 10 questions were given on a scale of 1-10. For nine of these questions, respondents’ scores were averaged under broad topics. The overall rating represents an average of respondents’ responses to their overall rating of each card. “Cardholder favorite” cards are those scored in the top 10 overall.
Ask CardRatings’ experts
What are some things consumers should look for when searching for a new rewards credit card?
Whenever I'm looking for a new rewards credit card, I always take stock of cardholder benefits and how they compare to the card's annual fee. I also make sure the card's rewards rate makes sense for how I normally spend, and I confirm I can easily meet the minimum spending requirement to earn the sign-up bonus.
When selecting a new rewards card, it's wise to pick one that enhances the ability to reach your goals. My family loves to travel, so I identify cards that optimize earning categories, while also allowing for transferability of points. Find cards that help you and select one that maximizes earning opportunities.
When choosing a new rewards card, consider your spending patterns. Ideally, you should choose a card that offers high rewards that align with how you spend. If you already have a rewards card that earns high rewards on one or more of the areas where you typically spend, maybe you want to add a flat-rate 2% card to fill in the gaps.
What are some of the top benefits consumers can look forward to with a rewards credit card?
The best rewards credit cards give you something back for each dollar you spend, which can come in the form of rewards points or cash back. Some also offer included purchase protections and travel benefits, although the exact perks you get depend on the card.
While many people love the earning possibilities of rewards cards, and I do as well, overlooked benefits are huge. I like to travel, and some cards offer perks like lounge access, free checked bags, automatic upgrades, travel protection, and more. Even if travel isn't your thing, there's likely a rewards card that offers unique perks you'll enjoy.
The biggest benefit of rewards cards is the ability to earn something back on your spending. But many rewards cards come with other perks too, like travel or purchase insurance and protections. Many rewards cards that charge annual fees often come with valuable credits that can help offset their annual fees, like airport lounge access, trusted traveler credits or free checked baggage perks.
Our CardFinder tool is also a great way to find the right card for you!
Tired of searching for the right credit card? CardFinder makes it quick and easy. Simply tell us your preferences and we’ll do the heavy lifting. Our three-step process saves you time and effort, so you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying the rewards. Get started today!
Frequently asked questions about rewards credit cards
What is a rewards credit card?
Rewards credit cards offer cash back, points, or miles on purchases. Cash-back cards, the most popular type, give a percentage back, often varying by purchase category. Flat-rate cards offer a consistent percentage, while tiered cards offer higher rates in specific categories (like groceries or gas), usually with spending caps. Rotating category cards offer often offer the highest cash-back rate (e.g., 5%) in categories that change quarterly. Customer-choice cards let you pick your bonus category. Travel rewards cards earn points or miles redeemable for flights, hotels, and more. General travel cards let you redeem points through a portal or as statement credit for travel purchases, and sometimes you can transfer points to airline or hotel loyalty programs.
How do rewards cards work?
Rewards credit cards are like getting paid to shop. You use the card, it gives you back a cut – cash, points, or miles. It’s a win-win: credit card issuers profit from transactions; you profit from rewards. Different cards specialize in different rewards, so match your spending habits to the card that best fuels your goals, whether it’s cash back or travel. Just remember the golden rule: pay your balance in full each month, or the interest will cancel out any rewards earned.
How do you choose the best rewards card?
Choosing the right rewards card can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by exploring expert-recommended cards (like those listed above) or browsing lists of the best cards for specific rewards, like cash back or travel. The key is understanding your finances and spending habits. Consider your credit score, spending patterns, and reward preferences (cash back, miles, points). Evaluate how rewards are earned, look for signup bonuses and perks, and factor in any fees. Finally, always read the fine print before applying. A rewards card can be a great financial tool, but choosing the right one is essential to maximize benefits and avoid harming your credit score.
Are rewards cards your best option?
Rewards cards can be great, but they’re not a magic bullet. They’re best if you’re a responsible spender who pays off balances in full. Otherwise, interest charges can negate any rewards. If you’re disciplined and strategic, they’re a fantastic perk. If not, they could cost you more in the long run.
Are credit card rewards taxable?
Generally, no. Credit card rewards are usually considered a discount or rebate, not income, so they’re not taxable. However, there are some rare exceptions, like if you earn rewards from opening a bank account linked to the card. If you have any doubts, it’s best to consult a tax professional. Learn more in our guide to credit cards and taxes.
What credit score do I need for a rewards credit card?
It depends on the card. Some basic rewards cards are available for those with fair credit, while premium cards with top-tier perks often require excellent credit. Generally, a higher score opens up more options and better rewards.
Can you earn rewards on everyday purchases?
Absolutely! That’s the beauty of rewards cards. From groceries and gas to online shopping and dining out, most everyday purchases are eligible for rewards. It’s like getting a little bonus back on spending you’d be doing anyway.
How can you maximize the rewards you earn from a credit card?
You can maximize credit card rewards by strategically using the right card for the right purchase. Take advantage of bonus categories, aim for signup bonuses, and always pay your balance in full to avoid interest that eats into your earnings. Basically, be a smart spender.
What should you consider when redeeming credit card rewards?
When redeeming credit card rewards, consider your goals. Are you saving for a big purchase, looking for cash back, or dreaming of a vacation? Compare redemption values for different options (cash back vs. travel, for example) to get the most bang for your buck. Also, check for any expiration dates or restrictions.
What happens to your rewards if you close your credit card
Usually, you’ll lose any accumulated rewards if you close your credit card account. It’s a good idea to redeem them before closing the card, or in some cases, you might be able to transfer them to another account with the same issuer.
Meet the editorial team
Rating methodology: CardRatings’ experts review the fine print, details, perks, rewards and features of hundreds of cards and compare them side-by-side with similar cards. A card that makes an excellent balance transfer card may not make a great cash-back rewards card even though it offers those rewards. While the Best of the Year list is announced annually, that list – and all other “best of” lists on CardRatings – are regularly reviewed and updated as issuers change the terms and features of each card often.
To see the rates and fees for the American Express cards featured in this post, please visit the follow links: CardName (See Rates and Fees); CardName (See Rates and Fees)
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
The information in this article is believed to be accurate as of the date it was written. Please keep in mind that credit card offers change frequently. Therefore, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this article. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accurate information. See the online credit card application for full terms and conditions on offers and rewards. Please verify all terms and conditions of any credit card prior to applying.
This content is not provided by any company mentioned in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed here are those of the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any such company. CardRatings.com does not review every company or every offer available on the market.
