Best Credit Cards of October 2021: Top Offers & Rewards

Q: What is the best first credit card?

If you're looking for your first credit card , a student card is a good choice – provided you're in school. Check out the Discover it® Student Cash Back card , which offers solid rewards, an enticing welcome bonus and application terms that are geared toward first-time credit cardholders. If you're not a student, consider an entry-level rewards card like the Discover it® Cash Back , or a secured card like the Discover it® Secured Credit Card .

by Edited by updated Oct 11, 2021

Advertiser Disclosure

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is our pick for the best credit card overall for 2021. Your rewards are high-value and incredibly flexible, and all of the benefits quickly comp for the ongoing annual fee.

See best card offers

Editorial Note: The content of this article is based on the author’s opinions and recommendations alone. It may not have been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the credit card issuer. This site may be compensated through a credit card issuer partnership.

Citi is an advertising partner

Best credit cards of October 2021

Best for rewards

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Apply Now

On Chase's Secure Website

Best for cash back

Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer

Apply Now

On Citibank's Secure Website

Best for luxury travel

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Apply Now

See Rates & Fees. Terms Apply. On American Express' Secure Website

Life is full of complex choices. From big decisions like where to live or what profession to pursue to smaller ones like what to wear and where to go for dinner, the decisions add up like change in a piggy bank. If your actual piggy bank isn't as full as you'd like it to be, one way to change that is to put one of the best credit cards in your wallet.

Having the right card can help you achieve your financial goals, whether it's earning cash back, traveling on points and miles, paying down a new purchase with a 0% APR or transferring and paying down a balance. From these best credit cards of 2021, consider each card’s limited-time offers and other additions that will help you spend responsibly and earn rewards quickly.

Methodology

To make choosing the right card easier, we've looked at credit cards reviewed on ValuePenguin as well as cards on major issuer sites to compile a list of the best rewards credit cards available right now. Our recommendations are based on the additional value you can earn with the cards — including the rewards value, cost of ownership and value of benefits such as travel and purchase protections, lounge membership and airline companion passes. Our choices are not influenced by our advertisers. Learn more on how we calculate rewards.

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Best for rewards: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Best for cash back: Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer
Best for business: Capital One Spark Cash for Business
Best for travel: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Best for luxury travel: The Platinum Card® from American Express
Best for airlines: Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
Best for hotels: Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
Best for balance transfers: Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
Best for building credit: Discover it® Secured Credit Card
Best for rotating categories: Chase Freedom Flex℠
Best for 0% APR: Wells Fargo Platinum card
Best for restaurants: Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card
Best for groceries: Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Best credit card for rewards

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Welcome bonus

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Annual Fee

$95

APR

15.99% - 22.99% Variable

Credit Needed

Excellent

Editor's Rating

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 new benefits such as a $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3X points on dining and 2X points on all other travel purchases, 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.
With Pay Yourself Back℠, your points are worth 25% more during the current offer when you redeem them for statement credits against existing purchases in select, rotating categories.
Get unlimited deliveries with a $0 delivery fee and reduced service fees on eligible orders over $12 for a minimum of one year with DashPass, DoorDash's subscription service. Activate by 12/31/21.
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
Get up to $60 back on an eligible Peloton Digital or All-Access Membership through 12/31/2021, and get full access to their workout library through the Peloton app, including cardio, running, strength, yoga, and more. Take classes using a phone, tablet, or TV. No fitness equipment is required.

+ see card details

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®.

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Our thoughts

In exchange for a very reasonable $95 annual fee, it offers high-value points that are easy to earn and easy to redeem, not to mention solid benefits and an enticing sign-up bonus.

Unfortunately, rewards cards aren't always rewarding. But the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card card is. Whether you're a newcomer to the world of rewards cards or a rewards veteran whose wallet is flush with points-earning plastic, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card inherent flexibility makes it easy to turn today's purchases into tomorrow's perks – especially if you spend heavily on travel and restaurants — making it one of the top credit cards.

If you'd rather not keep track of bonus categories, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card card might be a better choice; for the same annual fee, its straightforward-earning structure allows you to earn rewards at the same flat rate regardless of purchase category. However, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card remains a superior choice, because its points are worth more – up to 1.25 cents per point compared to 1 cent per mile for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

Coronavirus updates

Unique partner benefits, including a year's free subscription for DoorDash and 5 points per dollar spent on Lyft rides through March 2022.
Until Dec. 31, 2021, get back up to $60 on an eligible Peloton Digital or All-Access Membership to get full access to workout classes using your phone, tablet or TV.
Until Dec. 31, 2021, earn 5X points on Peloton purchases (maximum of $1,800 in purchases)

2X points on travel and restaurants
25% more value when you redeem rewards for travel
Transfer points to a number of travel loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio
Primary rental car insurance
Includes trip cancellation/interruption insurance
$0 foreign transaction fees
Up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays purchased through Ultimate Rewards

The card has a $95 annual fee – which isn't cheap
You have to spend $4,000 within three months in order to receive the sign-up bonus

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For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EWith Pay Yourself Back℠, your points are worth 25% more during the current offer when you redeem them for statement credits against existing purchases in select, rotating categories.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EGet unlimited deliveries with a $0 delivery fee and reduced service fees on eligible orders over $12 for a minimum of one year with DashPass, DoorDash's subscription service. Activate by 12\\\/31\\\/21.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003ECount on Trip Cancellation\\\/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EGet up to $60 back on an eligible Peloton Digital or All-Access Membership through 12\\\/31\\\/2021, and get full access to their workout library through the Peloton app, including cardio, running, strength, yoga, and more. Take classes using a phone, tablet, or TV. No fitness equipment is required.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003C\\\/ul\\u003E\",\"editorRating\":\"\\u003Cdiv class=\\\"ReactComponent--root\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\\\"\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-empty\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-empty\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n \\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n\\n \\u003Cscript type=\\\"application\\\/json\\\" class=\\\"js-react-component\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E{\\\"rating\\\":80,\\\"stars\\\":5}\\u003C\\\/script\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\",\"editorRatingTooltip\":\"Our team rates credit cards objectively based on independent research, the features the credit card offers users, and how it compares with other available cards in its category. The ratings are the opinion of our editors, and are not influenced by any outside factors, including any compensation the site may receive from certain advertisers. Learn more on how we \\u003Cspan\\u003E\\u003Ca class=\\\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\\\" rel=\\\"nofollow\\\" title=\\\"Credit Card Methodology\\\" href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.valuepenguin.com\\\/credit-card-methodology\\\"\\u003Ecalculate rewards\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E.\",\"featuredTitle\":\"Welcome bonus\",\"hideTitle\":false,\"imageURL\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cdn.comparecards.com\\\/uploads\\\/images\\\/items\\\/4709.png\",\"isUnavailable\":false,\"link\":\"\\\/credit-cards\\\/redirect\\\/92?url=_best-credit-cards\",\"name\":\"Chase Sapphire Preferred\\u00ae Card\",\"signUpBonus\":\"\",\"signUpBonusTitle\":\"Sign Up Bonus\"}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EEarn 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\u00ae.\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EEarn 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\\u00ae.\\n\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeInset--root ShortcodeInset--justify-right ShortcodeInset--color-blue\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIn exchange for a very reasonable $95 annual fee, it offers high-value points that are easy to earn and easy to redeem, not to mention solid benefits and an enticing sign-up bonus.\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EUnfortunately, rewards cards aren't always rewarding. But the \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Chase Sapphire Preferred\u00ae Card Review: Does It Live Up to The Hype?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/chase-sapphire-preferred\"\u003EChase Sapphire Preferred\u00ae Card\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E card is. Whether you're a newcomer to the world of rewards cards or a rewards veteran whose wallet is flush with points-earning plastic, the Chase Sapphire Preferred\u00ae Card inherent flexibility makes it easy to turn today's purchases into tomorrow's perks \u2013 especially if you spend heavily on travel and restaurants \u2014 making it one of the top credit cards.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you'd rather not keep track of bonus categories, the \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Capital One\u00ae Venture\u00ae Rewards Credit Card Review\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/capital-one-venture-rewards-credit-card\"\u003ECapital One Venture Rewards Credit Card\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E card might be a better choice; for the same annual fee, its straightforward-earning structure allows you to earn rewards at the same flat rate regardless of purchase category. However, the Chase Sapphire Preferred\u00ae Card remains a superior choice, because its points are worth more \u2013 up to 1.25 cents per point compared to 1 cent per mile for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003ECoronavirus updates\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content ShortcodeList--content-margin\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--bullet\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Unique partner benefits, including a year's free subscription for DoorDash and 5 points per dollar spent on Lyft rides through March 2022.\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Until Dec. 31, 2021, get back up to $60 on an eligible Peloton Digital or All-Access Membership to get full access to workout classes using your phone, tablet or TV.\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Until Dec. 31, 2021, earn 5X points on Peloton purchases (maximum of $1,800 in purchases)\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n 2X points on travel and restaurants\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n 25% more value when you redeem rewards for travel\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Chase Ultimate Reward Transfer Partners: Where Can You Move Your Points?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/chase-ultimate-rewards-transfer-partners\"\u003ETransfer points\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E to a number of travel loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Credit Card Rental Car Insurance: What Is It? How Does It Work?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/credit-card-rental-car-insurance\"\u003EPrimary rental car insurance\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Includes trip cancellation\/interruption insurance\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n $0 \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Foreign Transaction Fee: What is it? How does it work?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/credit-card-foreign-transaction-fees\"\u003Eforeign transaction fees\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays purchased through Ultimate Rewards\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n The card has a $95 annual fee \u2013 which isn't cheap\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n You have to spend $4,000 within three months in order to receive the sign-up bonus\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best cashback credit card

Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer

Cash back

Annual Fee

APR

13.99% – 23.99% (Variable)

Credit Needed

Excellent/Good

Editor's Rating

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.
Balance Transfer Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 13.99% – 23.99%, based on your creditworthiness.
Balance Transfers do not earn cash back.
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 a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
The standard variable APR for Citi Flex Plan is 13.99% – 23.99% based on your creditworthiness. Citi Flex Plan offers are made available at Citi's discretion.

+ see card details

Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.

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Our thoughts

If you think cash – or rather, cash back – is king when it comes to the best credit cards, then the Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer card is royalty.

Although it doesn't offer a sign-up bonus, its cashback benefits are incentive enough to open an account: Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. Note, rewards are earned in the form of statement credits.

The card doesn't offer any unique perks, but it does have at least one major benefit for cardholders who are carrying a balance on another card: It promises an introductory APR of 0% for 18 months on Balance Transfers (a 13.99% – 23.99% (Variable) APR applies thereafter), provided transfers are completed within four months of opening an account. A balance transfer fee – 3% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum. – applies, and transfers don't receive cash back. Nevertheless, it's an attractive offer and one of the best credit cards for young adults, making this a worthwhile cashback card for anyone who wants to both save and make money.

$0 annual fee
High flat-rate of cashback
Intro APR on balance transfers
No caps and no category limits
Rewards are easy to redeem
Convert rewards to Citi ThankYou® points at a rate of $1 per 100 points

No sign-up bonus
No meaningful perks or benefits
Half of your cash back isn't earned until purchases are paid for
Rewards expire if your account is inactive for 12 months
Minimum of $25 to redeem your cash rewards

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class=\"AffiliateBanner--inner\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--wrapper\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--image\"\u003E\u003Ca class=\"Link--root AffiliateBanner--image-link \" href=\"\/credit-cards\/redirect\/710?url=_best-credit-cards\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Citi\u00ae Double Cash Card \u2013 18 month BT offer\"\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\"Citi\u00ae Double Cash Card \u2013 18 month BT offer\" class=\"Image--root lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.comparecards.com\/uploads\/images\/items\/4595.png\"\/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--button\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateButtonV2--root \"\u003E\u003Ca class=\"Link--root Button--root Button--primary Button--fluid \" href=\"\/credit-cards\/redirect\/710?url=_best-credit-cards\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Apply Now\"\u003EApply Now\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl dBUYFD ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--lock\" color=\"inherit\" name=\"lock\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--root\"\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--item\"\u003EOn Citibank's Secure Website \u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--fields\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--fields-bottom\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EAnnual Fee\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E$0\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EAPR\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E13.99% \u2013 23.99% (Variable)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003ECredit Needed\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003EExcellent\/Good\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EEditor's Rating\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E{\"rating\":100,\"stars\":5}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-hidden\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-content\"\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEarn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETo earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBalance Transfer Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 13.99% \u2013 23.99%, based on your creditworthiness.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBalance Transfers do not earn cash back.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIf 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.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThere is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe standard variable APR for Citi Flex Plan is 13.99% \u2013 23.99% based on your creditworthiness. 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Each creditor uses a variety of different types of credit scores to make lending decisions.\",\"details\":\"\\u003Cul\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003ETo earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EBalance Transfer Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 13.99% \\u2013 23.99%, based on your creditworthiness.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EBalance Transfers do not earn cash back.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EIf 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.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EThere is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EThe standard variable APR for Citi Flex Plan is 13.99% \\u2013 23.99% based on your creditworthiness. Citi Flex Plan offers are made available at Citi's discretion.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003C\\\/ul\\u003E\",\"editorRating\":\"\\u003Cdiv class=\\\"ReactComponent--root\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\\\"\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n \\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n\\n \\u003Cscript type=\\\"application\\\/json\\\" class=\\\"js-react-component\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E{\\\"rating\\\":100,\\\"stars\\\":5}\\u003C\\\/script\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\",\"editorRatingTooltip\":\"Our team rates credit cards objectively based on independent research, the features the credit card offers users, and how it compares with other available cards in its category. The ratings are the opinion of our editors, and are not influenced by any outside factors, including any compensation the site may receive from certain advertisers. Learn more on how we \\u003Cspan\\u003E\\u003Ca class=\\\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\\\" rel=\\\"nofollow\\\" title=\\\"Credit Card Methodology\\\" href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.valuepenguin.com\\\/credit-card-methodology\\\"\\u003Ecalculate rewards\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E.\",\"featuredTitle\":\"Cash back\",\"hideTitle\":true,\"imageURL\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cdn.comparecards.com\\\/uploads\\\/images\\\/items\\\/4595.png\",\"isUnavailable\":false,\"link\":\"\\\/credit-cards\\\/redirect\\\/710?url=_best-credit-cards\",\"name\":\"Citi\\u00ae Double Cash Card \\u2013 18 month BT offer\",\"signUpBonus\":\"\",\"signUpBonusTitle\":\"Sign Up Bonus\"}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EEarn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EEarn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.\\n\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeInset--root ShortcodeInset--justify-right ShortcodeInset--color-blue\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you think cash \u2013 or rather, cash back \u2013 is king when it comes to the best credit cards, then the \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--white\" title=\"Citi\u00ae Double Cash Card: Outstanding cashback rewards, few other benefits\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/citi-double-cash-card\"\u003ECiti\u00ae Double Cash Card \u2013 18 month BT offer\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E card is royalty.\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EAlthough it doesn't offer a sign-up bonus, its cashback benefits are incentive enough to open an account: Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. Note, rewards are earned in the form of statement credits.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe card doesn't offer any unique perks, but it does have at least one major benefit for cardholders who are carrying a balance on another card: It promises an introductory APR of 0% for 18 months on Balance Transfers (a 13.99% \u2013 23.99% (Variable) APR applies thereafter), provided transfers are completed within four months of opening an account. A balance transfer fee \u2013 3% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum. \u2013 applies, and transfers don't receive cash back. Nevertheless, it's an attractive offer and one of the best credit cards for young adults, making this a worthwhile cashback card for anyone who wants to both save and make money.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n $0 annual fee\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n High flat-rate of cashback\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Intro APR on balance transfers\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n No caps and no category limits\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Rewards are easy to redeem\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Convert rewards to Citi ThankYou\u00ae points at a rate of $1 per 100 points\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n No sign-up bonus\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n No meaningful perks or benefits\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Half of your cash back isn't earned until purchases are paid for\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Rewards expire if your account is inactive for 12 months\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Minimum of $25 to redeem your cash rewards\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best business credit card

Capital One Spark Cash for Business

The Capital One Spark Cash for Business card may no longer be available.

Earn a one-time $500 cash bonus once you spend $4,500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

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Our thoughts

From payroll and inventory to hiring and marketing, small business owners have a lot of balls in the air. Credit card rewards shouldn't have to be one of them. That's why the Capital One Spark Cash for Business card is such a good business credit card.

Simple and straightforward, it offers 2% Cash Back for your business on every purchase, everywhere, with no limit on how many rewards you can earn and no spending categories to keep track of.

A couple of core benefits notwithstanding – reimbursement for rental car damage, for example, and up to $10,000 in purchase security for items that are damaged and stolen within 90 days of purchase – there aren't a lot of bells and whistles to entice you. But that's kind of what makes this one of the top credit cards. What business owners need most is one versatile, uncomplicated card that they can use for all of their business purchases in order to make money while they're spending it. And that's exactly what the Capital One Spark Cash for Business card is.

2% Cash Back for your business on every purchase, everywhere
Cash back doesn't expire and can be redeemed at any time and in any amount
Business owners receive free employee cards
Auto rental damage waiver, purchase protection and extended warranty benefits

$0 intro for first year; $95 after that annual fee
High 20.99% (Variable) APR
Lacks the travel benefits that are common to many other rewards cards

{"backgroundColor":"white","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3 id=\"Capital\"\u003ECapital One Spark Cash for Business\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Capital One Spark Cash for Business card may no longer be available.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EEarn a one-time $500 cash bonus once you spend $4,500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EEarn a one-time $500 cash bonus once you spend $4,500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening\\n\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EFrom payroll and inventory to hiring and marketing, small business owners have a lot of balls in the air. Credit card rewards shouldn't have to be one of them. That's why the Capital One Spark Cash for Business card is such a good business credit card.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeInset--root ShortcodeInset--justify-right ShortcodeInset--color-blue\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ESimple and straightforward, it offers 2% Cash Back for your business on every purchase, everywhere, with no limit on how many rewards you can earn and no spending categories to keep track of.\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EA couple of core benefits notwithstanding \u2013 reimbursement for rental car damage, for example, and up to $10,000 in purchase security for items that are damaged and stolen within 90 days of purchase \u2013 there aren't a lot of bells and whistles to entice you. But that's kind of what makes this one of the top credit cards. What business owners need most is one versatile, uncomplicated card that they can use for all of their business purchases in order to make money while they're spending it. And that's exactly what the Capital One Spark Cash for Business card is.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n 2% Cash Back for your business on every purchase, everywhere\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Cash back doesn't expire and can be redeemed at any time and in any amount\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Business owners receive free employee cards\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Auto rental damage waiver, purchase protection and extended warranty benefits\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n $0 intro for first year; $95 after that annual fee\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n High 20.99% (Variable) APR\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Lacks the travel benefits that are common to many other rewards cards\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best travel credit card

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Travel

Annual Fee

$550

APR

16.99%-23.99% Variable

Credit Needed

Excellent

Editor's Rating

Earn 50,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
$300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year. Through December 31, 2021, gas station & grocery store purchases will also count towards earning your Travel Credit
Earn 5X total points on air travel and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards. For example, 50,000 points are worth $750 toward travel
With Pay Yourself Back℠, your points are worth 50% more during the current offer when you redeem them for statement credits against existing purchases in select, rotating categories
1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA Pre✓®
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more

+ see card details

Earn 50,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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Our thoughts

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is many travelers' favorite card thanks to its substantial features and benefits. The card's hefty $550 annual fee gets returned to you in the form of valuable rewards. For starters, you get 5X total points on air travel and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases On top of that, you get a $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel-related expenses, reimbursement for enrollment in trusted traveler programs like TSA Precheck, a Priority Pass™ Select membership that gives you complimentary access to more than 1,000 airport lounges, trip and baggage delay insurance, a year of free food deliveries via DoorDash, a complimentary Lyft Pink membership that entitles you to discounts and benefits on Lyft rides and 10 points per dollar spent on those same rides through March 2022.

And when it's time to use your points, you get 50% more value when you redeem them for travel through Chase's Ultimate Rewards® portal – 50,000 points redeemed for travel via Chase Ultimate Rewards® are worth $750 – plus the ability to transfer points to a number of airline and hotel loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio.

"The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a must-have for both domestic and international travel. No other card comes equipped with as many benefits and statement credits, far exceeding the cost of the annual fee."

Stella Shon, Travel Cards Expert

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Coronavirus updates

Until Dec. 31, 2021, get back up to $120 in statement credits for an eligible Peloton Digital or All-Access Membership to take workout classes using a phone, tablet or TV.
Until Dec. 31, 2021, earn 10X points on Peloton purchases (maximum of $1,800 in purchases)
Until Dec. 31, 2021 the $300 travel credit also applies to gas station and grocery store purchases.

Large sign-up bonus
Generous 3X rate on travel and dining
50% more value when you redeem points for travel
Transfer points to a number of travel loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio
$300 annual travel credit
TSA Precheck/Global entry credit
Complimentary airport lounge access
Trip cancellation/interruption insurance

The $550 annual fee is substantial
No 0% introductory APR on purchases or balance transfers

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class=\"AffiliateBanner--inner\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--wrapper\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--image\"\u003E\u003Ca class=\"Link--root AffiliateBanner--image-link \" href=\"\/credit-cards\/redirect\/1129?url=_best-credit-cards\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Chase Sapphire Reserve\u00ae\"\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\"Chase Sapphire Reserve\u00ae\" class=\"Image--root lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.comparecards.com\/uploads\/images\/items\/4335.jpg\"\/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--button\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateButtonV2--root \"\u003E\u003Ca class=\"Link--root Button--root Button--primary Button--fluid \" href=\"\/credit-cards\/redirect\/1129?url=_best-credit-cards\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Apply Now\"\u003EApply Now\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl dBUYFD ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--lock\" color=\"inherit\" name=\"lock\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--root\"\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--item\"\u003EOn Chase's Secure Website \u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--fields\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--fields-bottom\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EAnnual Fee\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E$550\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EAPR\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E16.99%-23.99% Variable\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003ECredit Needed\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003EExcellent\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EEditor's Rating\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E{\"rating\":100,\"stars\":5}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-hidden\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-content\"\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEarn 50,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards\u00ae\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year. Through December 31, 2021, gas station & grocery store purchases will also count towards earning your Travel Credit\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEarn 5X total points on air travel and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards\u00ae\u00a0immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGet 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards. For example, 50,000 points are worth $750 toward travel\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWith Pay Yourself Back℠, your points are worth 50% more during the current offer when you redeem them for statement credits against existing purchases in select, rotating categories\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAccess to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass\u2122 Select and up to $100 application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA Pre\u2713\u00ae\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECount on Trip Cancellation\/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--toggle\"\u003E\u003Ca aria-label=\"Toggle Open\/Closed\" class=\"ToggleText--link BenefitsBox--toggle-text link small\"\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"ToggleText--label\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl dBUYFD ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--undefined\" color=\"inherit\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E+ see card details\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"BenefitsBox\"\u003E{\"annualFee\":\"$550\",\"apr\":\"16.99%-23.99% Variable\",\"bannerDisclaimers\":[\"On Chase's Secure Website\"],\"buttonColor\":\"primary\",\"buttonIcon\":\"lock\",\"buttonText\":\"Apply Now\",\"context\":\" in context: Banner\",\"creditNeeded\":\"Excellent\",\"creditNeededTooltip\":\"There are various types of credit scores. Each creditor uses a variety of different types of credit scores to make lending decisions.\",\"details\":\"\\u003Cul\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn 50,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards\\u00ae\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year. Through December 31, 2021, gas station & grocery store purchases will also count towards earning your Travel Credit\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn 5X total points on air travel and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards\\u00ae\\u00a0immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EGet 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards. For example, 50,000 points are worth $750 toward travel\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EWith Pay Yourself Back℠, your points are worth 50% more during the current offer when you redeem them for statement credits against existing purchases in select, rotating categories\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EAccess to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass\\u2122 Select and up to $100 application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA Pre\\u2713\\u00ae\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003ECount on Trip Cancellation\\\/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003C\\\/ul\\u003E\",\"editorRating\":\"\\u003Cdiv class=\\\"ReactComponent--root\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\\\"\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n \\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n\\n \\u003Cscript type=\\\"application\\\/json\\\" class=\\\"js-react-component\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E{\\\"rating\\\":100,\\\"stars\\\":5}\\u003C\\\/script\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\",\"editorRatingTooltip\":\"Our team rates credit cards objectively based on independent research, the features the credit card offers users, and how it compares with other available cards in its category. The ratings are the opinion of our editors, and are not influenced by any outside factors, including any compensation the site may receive from certain advertisers. Learn more on how we \\u003Cspan\\u003E\\u003Ca class=\\\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\\\" rel=\\\"nofollow\\\" title=\\\"Credit Card Methodology\\\" href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.valuepenguin.com\\\/credit-card-methodology\\\"\\u003Ecalculate rewards\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E.\",\"featuredTitle\":\"Travel\",\"hideTitle\":true,\"imageURL\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cdn.comparecards.com\\\/uploads\\\/images\\\/items\\\/4335.jpg\",\"isUnavailable\":false,\"link\":\"\\\/credit-cards\\\/redirect\\\/1129?url=_best-credit-cards\",\"name\":\"Chase Sapphire Reserve\\u00ae\",\"signUpBonus\":\"\",\"signUpBonusTitle\":\"Sign Up Bonus\"}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EEarn 50,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EEarn 50,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.\\n\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Chase Sapphire Reserve\u00ae: Is It Worth Applying For?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/chase-sapphire-reserve-credit-card\"\u003EChase Sapphire Reserve\u00ae\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E is many travelers' favorite card thanks to its substantial features and benefits. The card's hefty $550 annual fee gets returned to you in the form of valuable rewards. For starters, you get 5X total points on air travel and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards\u00ae immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases On top of that, you get a \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"How does the Chase Sapphire Reserve\u00ae travel credit work?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/chase-sapphire-reserve-travel-credit\"\u003E$300 annual travel credit\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E as reimbursement for travel-related expenses, reimbursement for enrollment in trusted traveler programs like TSA Precheck, a \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"How to Get Free or Discounted Priority Pass with a Credit Card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/how-to-get-priority-pass-for-free\"\u003EPriority Pass\u2122 Select membership\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E that gives you complimentary access to more than 1,000 airport lounges, trip and baggage delay insurance, a year of free food deliveries via DoorDash, a complimentary Lyft Pink membership that entitles you to discounts and benefits on Lyft rides and 10 points per dollar spent on those same rides through March 2022.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EAnd when it's time to use your points, you get 50% more value when you redeem them for travel through Chase's Ultimate Rewards\u00ae portal \u2013 50,000 points redeemed for travel via Chase Ultimate Rewards\u00ae are worth $750 \u2013 plus the ability to transfer points to a number of airline and hotel loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw gTIEkt\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\"The Chase Sapphire Reserve\u00ae is a must-have for both domestic and international travel. No other card comes equipped with as many benefits and statement credits, far exceeding the cost of the annual fee.\"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EStella Shon, Travel Cards Expert\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"gray\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003E\\\"The Chase Sapphire Reserve\\u00ae is a must-have for both domestic and international travel. No other card comes equipped with as many benefits and statement credits, far exceeding the cost of the annual fee.\\\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EStella Shon, Travel Cards Expert\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003E\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003ECoronavirus updates\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content ShortcodeList--content-margin\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--bullet\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Until Dec. 31, 2021, get back up to $120 in statement credits for an eligible Peloton Digital or All-Access Membership to take workout classes using a phone, tablet or TV.\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Until Dec. 31, 2021, earn 10X points on Peloton purchases (maximum of $1,800 in purchases)\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Until Dec. 31, 2021 the $300 travel credit also applies to gas station and grocery store purchases.\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Large sign-up bonus\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Generous 3X rate on travel and dining\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n 50% more value when you redeem points for travel\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Transfer points to a number of travel loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n $300 annual travel credit\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n TSA Precheck\/Global entry credit\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Complimentary airport lounge access\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Trip cancellation\/interruption insurance\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n The $550 annual fee is substantial\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n No 0% introductory APR on purchases or balance transfers\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best luxury travel credit card

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Luxury travel

Annual Fee

$695

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Needed

Excellent/Good

Editor's Rating

Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Plus, earn 10x points on eligible purchases on the Card at restaurants worldwide and when you Shop Small in the U.S., on up to $25,000 in combined purchases, during your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
$200 Hotel Credit: Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®.
$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 in statement credits each month when you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card® at your choice of one or more of the following providers: Peacock, Audible, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax.
American Express has expanded The Centurion® Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. Now there are even more places your Platinum Card® can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.
$200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
$300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $25 back each month on select Equinox memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required.
$179 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $179 back per year on your CLEAR® membership.
$695 annual fee.
Terms Apply.

+ see card details

100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

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Our thoughts

In exchange for its $695 annual fee, The Platinum Card® from American Express offers significant value.

That value starts with a generous, pro-travel earning structure: Cardholders receive 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. Terms apply. They also receive 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases. You can use points to pay for all or part of an upcoming trip when you book it on amextravel.com, to buy merchandise or gift cards, and to cover your card charges. You can even transfer points to participating airline or hotel loyalty programs.

Ultimately, though, what makes a luxury card are its benefits, and The Platinum Card® from American Express offers plenty of them.

For example, you get complimentary access to more than 1,300 airport lounges, including Amex Centurion lounges, Delta Sky Club® and Priority Pass™ Select lounges (enrollment required); reimbursement for enrollment in trusted traveler programs like Global Entry or TSA Precheck; complimentary upgrades and benefits at partner hotels; Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status (enrollment required); Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings ($15 per month and $20 bonus in December) on rides or eats orders in the U.S. annually when you add the card to the Uber app; and get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue on The Platinum Card® from American Express. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.

You also get trip delay and trip cancellation insurance, 24/7 emergency travel assistance services, car rental upgrades and insurance and free concierge services. The list goes on, as American Express is one of the best credit card companies out there.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, please click here.

5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel and on prepaid hotels
Generous introductory bonus
Largest airport lounge network of any credit card
Up to $200 per year in Uber credits ($15 per month and $20 bonus in December)
Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
Marriott and Hilton Gold status (enrollment required)
Flexible redemption options
Terms apply

The card's $695 annual fee is high
To maximize the card's travel benefits, you must book travel through amextravel.com
Travel credits may be difficult to use
Terms apply

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class=\"AffiliateBanner--inner\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--wrapper\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--image\"\u003E\u003Ca class=\"Link--root AffiliateBanner--image-link \" href=\"\/credit-cards\/redirect\/54?url=_best-credit-cards\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"The Platinum Card\u00ae from American Express\"\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\"The Platinum Card\u00ae from American Express\" class=\"Image--root lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.comparecards.com\/uploads\/images\/items\/4577.png\"\/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--button\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateButtonV2--root \"\u003E\u003Ca class=\"Link--root Button--root Button--primary Button--fluid \" href=\"\/credit-cards\/redirect\/54?url=_best-credit-cards\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Apply Now\"\u003EApply Now\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl dBUYFD ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--lock\" color=\"inherit\" name=\"lock\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--root\"\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--item\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/platinum-card\/26129-10-0#offer-terms\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ESee Rates & Fees.\u003C\/a\u003E Terms Apply. \u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--item\"\u003EOn American Express' Secure Website \u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--fields\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--fields-bottom\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EAnnual Fee\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E$695\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EAPR\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003ESee Pay Over Time APR\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003ECredit Needed\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003EExcellent\/Good\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EEditor's Rating\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-empty\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-empty\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E{\"rating\":80,\"stars\":5}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-hidden\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-content\"\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEarn 100,000 Membership Rewards\u00ae Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPlus, earn 10x points on eligible purchases on the Card at restaurants worldwide and when you Shop Small in the U.S., on up to $25,000 in combined purchases, during your first 6 months of Card Membership.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEarn 5X Membership Rewards\u00ae Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards\u00ae Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$200 Hotel Credit: Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts\u00ae or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card\u00ae.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 in statement credits each month when you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card\u00ae at your choice of one or more of the following providers: Peacock, Audible, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAmerican Express has expanded The Centurion\u00ae Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. Now there are even more places your Platinum Card\u00ae can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $25 back each month on select Equinox memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card\u00ae. Enrollment required.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$179 CLEAR\u00ae Credit: Use your Card and get up to $179 back per year on your CLEAR\u00ae membership.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$695 annual fee.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETerms Apply.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--toggle\"\u003E\u003Ca aria-label=\"Toggle Open\/Closed\" class=\"ToggleText--link BenefitsBox--toggle-text link small\"\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"ToggleText--label\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl dBUYFD ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--undefined\" color=\"inherit\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E+ see card details\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"BenefitsBox\"\u003E{\"annualFee\":\"$695\",\"apr\":\"See Pay Over Time APR\",\"bannerDisclaimers\":[\"\\u003Ca href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.americanexpress.com\\\/us\\\/credit-cards\\\/card-application\\\/apply\\\/prospect\\\/terms\\\/platinum-card\\\/26129-10-0#offer-terms\\\" rel=\\\"nofollow\\\"\\u003ESee Rates & Fees.\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E Terms Apply.\",\"On American Express' Secure Website\"],\"buttonColor\":\"primary\",\"buttonIcon\":\"lock\",\"buttonText\":\"Apply Now\",\"context\":\" in context: Banner\",\"creditNeeded\":\"Excellent\\\/Good\",\"creditNeededTooltip\":\"There are various types of credit scores. Each creditor uses a variety of different types of credit scores to make lending decisions.\",\"details\":\"\\u003Cul\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn 100,000 Membership Rewards\\u00ae Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EPlus, earn 10x points on eligible purchases on the Card at restaurants worldwide and when you Shop Small in the U.S., on up to $25,000 in combined purchases, during your first 6 months of Card Membership.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn 5X Membership Rewards\\u00ae Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards\\u00ae Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$200 Hotel Credit: Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts\\u00ae or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card\\u00ae.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 in statement credits each month when you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card\\u00ae at your choice of one or more of the following providers: Peacock, Audible, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EAmerican Express has expanded The Centurion\\u00ae Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. Now there are even more places your Platinum Card\\u00ae can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $25 back each month on select Equinox memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card\\u00ae. Enrollment required.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$179 CLEAR\\u00ae Credit: Use your Card and get up to $179 back per year on your CLEAR\\u00ae membership.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$695 annual fee.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003ETerms Apply.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003C\\\/ul\\u003E\",\"editorRating\":\"\\u003Cdiv class=\\\"ReactComponent--root\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\\\"\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-empty\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-empty\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n \\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n\\n \\u003Cscript type=\\\"application\\\/json\\\" class=\\\"js-react-component\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E{\\\"rating\\\":80,\\\"stars\\\":5}\\u003C\\\/script\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\",\"editorRatingTooltip\":\"Our team rates credit cards objectively based on independent research, the features the credit card offers users, and how it compares with other available cards in its category. The ratings are the opinion of our editors, and are not influenced by any outside factors, including any compensation the site may receive from certain advertisers. Learn more on how we \\u003Cspan\\u003E\\u003Ca class=\\\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\\\" rel=\\\"nofollow\\\" title=\\\"Credit Card Methodology\\\" href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.valuepenguin.com\\\/credit-card-methodology\\\"\\u003Ecalculate rewards\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E.\",\"featuredTitle\":\"Luxury travel\",\"hideTitle\":true,\"imageURL\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cdn.comparecards.com\\\/uploads\\\/images\\\/items\\\/4577.png\",\"isUnavailable\":false,\"link\":\"\\\/credit-cards\\\/redirect\\\/54?url=_best-credit-cards\",\"name\":\"The Platinum Card\\u00ae from American Express\",\"signUpBonus\":\"\",\"signUpBonusTitle\":\"Welcome Offer\"}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. \n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003E100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. \\n\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIn exchange for its $695 annual fee, \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"The Platinum Card\u00ae from American Express Review: Luxury Travel Benefits\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/american-express-platinum-card\"\u003EThe Platinum Card\u00ae from American Express\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E offers significant value.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThat value starts with a generous, pro-travel earning structure: Cardholders receive 5X Membership Rewards\u00ae points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and 5X Membership Rewards\u00ae points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. Terms apply. They also receive 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases. You can \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Best Ways to Use American Express Membership Rewards Points\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/best-ways-use-american-express-membership-rewards-points\"\u003Euse points\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E to pay for all or part of an upcoming trip when you book it on amextravel.com, to buy merchandise or gift cards, and to cover your card charges. You can even transfer points to participating airline or hotel loyalty programs.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeInset--root ShortcodeInset--justify-right ShortcodeInset--color-blue\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EUltimately, though, what makes a luxury card are its benefits, and The Platinum Card\u00ae from American Express offers plenty of them.\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EFor example, you get complimentary access to more than 1,300 airport lounges, including \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"American Express Centurion Lounges: How to Get Access\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/list-amex-centurion-lounges\"\u003EAmex Centurion lounges\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E, Delta Sky Club\u00ae and Priority Pass\u2122 Select lounges (enrollment required); reimbursement for enrollment in trusted traveler programs like Global Entry or TSA Precheck; complimentary upgrades and benefits at partner hotels; \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Hilton Honors Status: How to Earn It and How Much Is It Worth?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/hilton-honors-elite-status\"\u003EHilton Honors Gold\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E and \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status: How to Earn It and How Much It's Wort\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/marriott-bonvoy-elite-status\"\u003EMarriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E (enrollment required); Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings ($15 per month and $20 bonus in December) on rides or eats orders in the U.S. annually when you add the card to the Uber app; and get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue on The Platinum Card\u00ae from American Express. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EYou also get trip delay and trip cancellation insurance, 24\/7 emergency travel assistance services, car rental upgrades and insurance and free concierge services. The list goes on, as American Express is one of the best credit card companies out there.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeDisclaimer--root ShortcodeDisclaimer--root \"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ContextualDisclaimer--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cp class=\"ContextualDisclaimer--copy\"\u003E\n \u003Cp\u003EFor rates and fees of The Platinum Card\u00ae from American Express, please click \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" rel=\"nofollow\" title=\"here\" href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/platinum-card\/26129-10-0#offer-terms\"\u003Ehere\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n \n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n 5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel and on prepaid hotels\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Generous introductory bonus\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Largest airport lounge network of any credit card\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Up to $200 per year in Uber credits ($15 per month and $20 bonus in December)\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Trip cancellation\/interruption insurance\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Marriott and Hilton Gold status (enrollment required)\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Flexible redemption options\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Terms apply\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n The card's $695 annual fee is high\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n To maximize the card's travel benefits, you must book travel through amextravel.com\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Travel credits may be difficult to use\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Terms apply\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best airline credit card

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

Airlines

Annual Fee

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.

APR

15.74%-24.74% Variable

Credit Needed

Excellent/Good

Editor's Rating

Limited Time Offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after spending $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. Offer expires 11/10/2021.
Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery and at U.S. supermarkets.
Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
$100 Delta Flight Credit: After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your card in a calendar year, receive a Credit to use toward future travel.
Enjoy a $0 introductory Annual Fee for the first year, then $99.
Terms Apply.

+ see card details

Limited Time Offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after spending $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. Offer expires 11/10/2021.

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Our thoughts

Airline credit cards that bind you to a single carrier can sometimes hinder instead of help your travel goals, limiting your ability to shop around.

A notable exception is the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card card, which offers substantial value not only to diehard Delta acolytes, but also to the casual traveler who flies Delta Air Lines only occasionally.

That's because the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card makes it easy to earn miles when you're not flying Delta, and to redeem miles for elite Delta benefits when you are. Case in point: Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery and at U.S. supermarkets. That means you can rack up miles at home and on the road regardless of whether you're flying and with what airline. When you eventually do fly Delta, your card entitles you to a free checked bag and priority boarding. And when you spend $10,000 on your card during a calendar year, you get up to a $100 Delta credit for future travel.

If you fly Delta often, it's a no-brainer. And if you don't, it's still a good value that can make a coveted trip more affordable and more comfortable when you eventually decide to take it.

For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, please click here.

Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery and at U.S. supermarkets.
Fee checked bag and priority boarding when you fly Delta
The annual fee is waived for the first year
Terms apply

The card charges an annual fee: $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
If you're a frequent Delta flyer, you probably have elite status already; may be of little value to you
High spend required to get $100 flight credit
Terms apply

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Fee\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EAPR\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E15.74%-24.74% Variable\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003ECredit Needed\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003EExcellent\/Good\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EEditor's Rating\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-empty\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-empty\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E{\"rating\":80,\"stars\":5}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-hidden\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-content\"\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELimited Time Offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after spending $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. 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Each creditor uses a variety of different types of credit scores to make lending decisions.\",\"details\":\"\\u003Cul\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003ELimited Time Offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after spending $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. Offer expires 11\\\/10\\\/2021.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEnjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery and at U.S. supermarkets.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$100 Delta Flight Credit: After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your card in a calendar year, receive a Credit to use toward future travel.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEnjoy a $0 introductory Annual Fee for the first year, then $99.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003ETerms Apply.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003C\\\/ul\\u003E\",\"editorRating\":\"\\u003Cdiv class=\\\"ReactComponent--root\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\\\"\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-empty\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-empty\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n \\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n\\n \\u003Cscript type=\\\"application\\\/json\\\" class=\\\"js-react-component\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E{\\\"rating\\\":80,\\\"stars\\\":5}\\u003C\\\/script\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\",\"editorRatingTooltip\":\"Our team rates credit cards objectively based on independent research, the features the credit card offers users, and how it compares with other available cards in its category. The ratings are the opinion of our editors, and are not influenced by any outside factors, including any compensation the site may receive from certain advertisers. Learn more on how we \\u003Cspan\\u003E\\u003Ca class=\\\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\\\" rel=\\\"nofollow\\\" title=\\\"Credit Card Methodology\\\" href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.valuepenguin.com\\\/credit-card-methodology\\\"\\u003Ecalculate rewards\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E.\",\"featuredTitle\":\"Airlines\",\"hideTitle\":true,\"imageURL\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cdn.comparecards.com\\\/uploads\\\/images\\\/items\\\/4329.jpg\",\"isUnavailable\":false,\"link\":\"\\\/credit-cards\\\/redirect\\\/851?url=_best-credit-cards\",\"name\":\"Delta SkyMiles\\u00ae Gold American Express Card\",\"signUpBonus\":\"\",\"signUpBonusTitle\":\"Welcome Offer\"}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ELimited Time Offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after spending $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. Offer expires 11\/10\/2021. \n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003ELimited Time Offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after spending $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. Offer expires 11\\\/10\\\/2021. \\n\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EAirline credit cards that bind you to a single carrier can sometimes hinder instead of help your travel goals, limiting your ability to shop around.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeInset--root ShortcodeInset--justify-right ShortcodeInset--color-blue\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EA notable exception is the \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--white\" title=\"Delta SkyMiles\u00ae Gold American Express Card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/gold-delta-skymiles-credit-card\"\u003EDelta SkyMiles\u00ae Gold American Express Card\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E card, which offers substantial value not only to diehard Delta acolytes, but also to the casual traveler who flies Delta Air Lines only occasionally.\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThat's because the Delta SkyMiles\u00ae Gold American Express Card makes it easy to \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"How to Earn Delta SkyMiles\u00ae\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/how-to-earn-delta-skymiles\"\u003Eearn miles\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E when you're not flying Delta, and to redeem miles for \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"What Is Delta Air Lines Medallion Status Worth?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/what-is-delta-airlines-medallion-status-worth\"\u003Eelite Delta benefits\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E when you are. Case in point: Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery and at U.S. supermarkets. That means you can rack up miles at home and on the road regardless of whether you're flying and with what airline. When you eventually do fly Delta, your card entitles you to \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Delta Baggage Fees: Here's What You Need to Know\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/delta-baggage-fees\"\u003Ea free checked bag\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E and priority boarding. And when you spend $10,000 on your card during a calendar year, you get up to a $100 Delta credit for future travel.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you fly Delta often, it's a no-brainer. And if you don't, it's still a good value that can make a coveted trip more affordable and more comfortable when you eventually decide to take it.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeDisclaimer--root ShortcodeDisclaimer--root \"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ContextualDisclaimer--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cp class=\"ContextualDisclaimer--copy\"\u003E\n \u003Cp\u003EFor rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles\u00ae Gold American Express Card, please click \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" rel=\"nofollow\" title=\"here\" href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/delta-skymiles-gold-american-express-card\/26129-10-0#offer-terms\"\u003Ehere\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n \n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery and at U.S. supermarkets.\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Fee checked bag and priority boarding when you fly Delta\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n The annual fee is waived for the first year\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Terms apply\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n The card charges an annual fee: $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n If you're a frequent Delta flyer, you probably have elite status already; may be of little value to you\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n High spend required to get $100 flight credit\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Terms apply\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best hotel credit card

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership. Plus, you can earn an additional 50,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend a total of $10,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months.

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Our thoughts

If you're the kind of traveler who would rather upgrade your destination than your journey, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is easily one of the best hotel credit cards there is.

What makes the card so great are its generous rewards structure and elite status benefits. The card lets you Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton Portfolio. Earn 6X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations. Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card. Those points eventually can be redeemed for free nights at Hilton hotels, or to reduce the rate you pay if you'd rather use a mix of points and cash. As for status, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card automatically gives you Hilton Honors Gold status, which entitles you to complimentary breakfast, room upgrades when they're available and extra points on hotel stays (enrollment required). And if you spend $40,000 on eligible purchases in a calendar year, you get bumped from Gold to Diamond status through the end of the next calendar year (enrollment required).

Cardholders also get 10 free visits per year to Priority Pass airport lounges, as well as a free weekend night upon spending $15,000 on eligible purchases within a calendar year. This is one of the best credit cards out there for travelers, from its long list of travel benefits to its lucrative earnings rate.

Generous rewards structure, including 12X points per dollar on Hilton purchases
Automatic Hilton Honors Gold status. Plus, earn Diamond status by spending $40,000 in a calendar year (enrollment required)
10 free visits per year to Priority Pass airport lounges
Free weekend night when you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
Terms apply

$95 annual fee
Benefits only apply to Hilton properties
Terms apply

{"backgroundColor":"white","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3 id=\"Hilton\"\u003EHilton Honors American Express Surpass\u00ae Card\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership. Plus, you can earn an additional 50,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend a total of $10,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months. \n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003E130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership. Plus, you can earn an additional 50,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend a total of $10,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months. \\n\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you're the kind of traveler who would rather upgrade your destination than your journey, the \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card Review: Is It Worth Applying For?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/hilton-honors-american-express-surpass-card\"\u003EHilton Honors American Express Surpass\u00ae Card\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E is easily one of the best hotel credit cards there is.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EWhat makes the card so great are its generous rewards structure and elite status benefits. The card lets you Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton Portfolio. Earn 6X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations. Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card. Those points eventually can be redeemed for free nights at Hilton hotels, or to reduce the rate you pay if you'd rather use a mix of points and cash. As for status, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass\u00ae Card automatically gives you \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Hilton Honors Status: How to Earn It and How Much Is It Worth?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/hilton-honors-elite-status\"\u003EHilton Honors Gold status\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E, which entitles you to complimentary breakfast, room upgrades when they're available and extra points on hotel stays (enrollment required). And if you spend $40,000 on eligible purchases in a calendar year, you get bumped from Gold to Diamond status through the end of the next calendar year (enrollment required).\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ECardholders also get 10 free visits per year to Priority Pass airport lounges, as well as a free weekend night upon spending $15,000 on eligible purchases within a calendar year. This is one of the best credit cards out there for travelers, from its long list of travel benefits to its lucrative earnings rate.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Generous rewards structure, including 12X points per dollar on Hilton purchases\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Automatic Hilton Honors Gold status. Plus, earn Diamond status by spending $40,000 in a calendar year (enrollment required)\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n 10 free visits per year to Priority Pass airport lounges\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Free weekend night when you spend $15,000 in a calendar year\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Terms apply\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n $95 annual fee\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Benefits only apply to Hilton properties\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Terms apply\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best balance transfer credit card

Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card

Balance transfers

Annual Fee

APR

13.74% - 23.74% (Variable)

Credit Needed

Excellent/Good

Editor's Rating

0% Intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers from date of first transfer and 0% Intro APR for 12 months on purchases from date of account opening. After that the variable APR will be 13.74% - 23.74%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
There is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Get free access to your FICO® Score online.
With Citi Entertainment®, get special access to purchase tickets to thousands of events, including concerts, sporting events, dining experiences and more.
Shop with confidence knowing that you have dependable protection benefits, including $0 Liability on Unauthorized Purchases and Citi® Identity Theft Solutions.
The standard variable APR for Citi Flex Plan is 13.74% - 23.74%, based on your creditworthiness. Citi Flex Plan offers are made available at Citi’s discretion.

+ see card details

Get an intro APR of 0% for 21 months on Balance Transfers and 0% for 12 months on Purchases (13.74% - 23.74% (Variable) APR thereafter).

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Our thoughts

The Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card offers a strong balance transfer proposition: You get an intro APR of 0% for 21 months on Balance Transfers, provided that the balance transfer is initiated within four months of opening an account (13.74% - 23.74% (Variable) thereafter). Unfortunately, a Balance transfer fee applies with this offer 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum. If you're carrying a large balance on another card, however, that means you can move it to the Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card and hold it interest-free for more than a year. That's a long time, and it can give you a major leg up on paying down your credit card debt. Because it has few other benefits, you probably won't want to retain the card long term. But as a means to a debt-free end, it's invaluable.

$0 annual fee
Intro APR of 0% for 12 months on Purchases (13.74% - 23.74% (Variable) APR thereafter)

Balance transfer fee applies with this offer 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.
The card lacks meaningful benefits beyond its welcome incentive

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23.74% (Variable)\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003ECredit Needed\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003EExcellent\/Good\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EEditor's Rating\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E{\"rating\":100,\"stars\":5}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-hidden\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-content\"\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E0% Intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers from date of first transfer and 0% Intro APR for 12 months on purchases from date of account opening. After that the variable APR will be 13.74% - 23.74%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThere is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGet free access to your FICO\u00ae Score online.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWith Citi Entertainment\u00ae, get special access to purchase tickets to thousands of events, including concerts, sporting events, dining experiences and more.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EShop with confidence knowing that you have dependable protection benefits, including $0 Liability on Unauthorized Purchases and Citi\u00ae Identity Theft Solutions.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe standard variable APR for Citi Flex Plan is 13.74% - 23.74%, based on your creditworthiness. Citi Flex Plan offers are made available at Citi\u2019s discretion.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--toggle\"\u003E\u003Ca aria-label=\"Toggle Open\/Closed\" class=\"ToggleText--link BenefitsBox--toggle-text link small\"\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"ToggleText--label\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl dBUYFD ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--undefined\" color=\"inherit\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E+ see card details\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"BenefitsBox\"\u003E{\"annualFee\":\"$0\",\"apr\":\"13.74% - 23.74% (Variable)\",\"bannerDisclaimers\":[\"On Citibank's Secure Website\"],\"buttonColor\":\"primary\",\"buttonIcon\":\"lock\",\"buttonText\":\"Apply Now\",\"context\":\" in context: Banner\",\"creditNeeded\":\"Excellent\\\/Good\",\"creditNeededTooltip\":\"There are various types of credit scores. Each creditor uses a variety of different types of credit scores to make lending decisions.\",\"details\":\"\\u003Cul\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E0% Intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers from date of first transfer and 0% Intro APR for 12 months on purchases from date of account opening. After that the variable APR will be 13.74% - 23.74%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EThere is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EGet free access to your FICO\\u00ae Score online.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EWith Citi Entertainment\\u00ae, get special access to purchase tickets to thousands of events, including concerts, sporting events, dining experiences and more.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EShop with confidence knowing that you have dependable protection benefits, including $0 Liability on Unauthorized Purchases and Citi\\u00ae Identity Theft Solutions.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EThe standard variable APR for Citi Flex Plan is 13.74% - 23.74%, based on your creditworthiness. Citi Flex Plan offers are made available at Citi\\u2019s discretion.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003C\\\/ul\\u003E\",\"editorRating\":\"\\u003Cdiv class=\\\"ReactComponent--root\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\\\"\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n \\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n\\n \\u003Cscript type=\\\"application\\\/json\\\" class=\\\"js-react-component\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E{\\\"rating\\\":100,\\\"stars\\\":5}\\u003C\\\/script\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\",\"editorRatingTooltip\":\"Our team rates credit cards objectively based on independent research, the features the credit card offers users, and how it compares with other available cards in its category. The ratings are the opinion of our editors, and are not influenced by any outside factors, including any compensation the site may receive from certain advertisers. Learn more on how we \\u003Cspan\\u003E\\u003Ca class=\\\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\\\" rel=\\\"nofollow\\\" title=\\\"Credit Card Methodology\\\" href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.valuepenguin.com\\\/credit-card-methodology\\\"\\u003Ecalculate rewards\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E.\",\"featuredTitle\":\"Balance transfers\",\"hideTitle\":true,\"imageURL\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cdn.comparecards.com\\\/uploads\\\/images\\\/items\\\/4673.png\",\"isUnavailable\":false,\"link\":\"\\\/credit-cards\\\/redirect\\\/27?url=_best-credit-cards\",\"name\":\"Citi\\u00ae Diamond Preferred\\u00ae Card\",\"signUpBonus\":\"\",\"signUpBonusTitle\":\"Sign Up Bonus\"}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EGet an intro APR of 0% for 21 months on Balance Transfers and 0% for 12 months on Purchases (13.74% - 23.74% (Variable) APR thereafter).\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EGet an intro APR of 0% for 21 months on Balance Transfers and 0% for 12 months on Purchases (13.74% - 23.74% (Variable) APR thereafter).\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003E\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Citi\u00ae Diamond Preferred\u00ae Card Review: 18 Month Long 0% Intro APR For Balance Transfers\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/citi-diamond-preferred-credit-card\"\u003ECiti\u00ae Diamond Preferred\u00ae Card\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E offers a strong balance transfer proposition: You get an intro APR of 0% for 21 months on Balance Transfers, provided that the balance transfer is initiated within four months of opening an account (13.74% - 23.74% (Variable) thereafter). Unfortunately, a Balance transfer fee applies with this offer 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum. If you're carrying a large balance on another card, however, that means you can move it to the Citi\u00ae Diamond Preferred\u00ae Card and hold it interest-free for more than a year. That's a long time, and it can give you a major leg up on paying down your credit card debt. Because it has few other benefits, you probably won't want to retain the card long term. But as a means to a debt-free end, it's invaluable.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n $0 annual fee\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Intro APR of 0% for 12 months on Purchases (13.74% - 23.74% (Variable) APR thereafter)\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Balance transfer fee applies with this offer 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n The card lacks meaningful benefits beyond its welcome incentive\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best credit card to build credit

Discover it® Secured Credit Card

Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.

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Our thoughts

The Discover it® Secured Credit Card card is one of the best options for cardholders trying to establish or rebuild credit, not only because it makes it easy to build credit, but also because it allows you to earn valuable cash back.

Here's how it works: If you're approved for a card, you'll be asked to provide a refundable cash deposit that's equal to your credit line – for example, a $200 deposit for a $200 credit line, or a $500 deposit for a $500 credit line. As you use the card, you'll earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases - automatically. The cherry on top: Discover will match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year for new cardholders. Finally, if you use credit responsibly (i.e., you consistently pay off your balance in full), you may eventually reclaim your deposit and transition to an unsecured line of credit.

Earn cash back on all your purchases
Matches cash back in the first year for new cardholders

Requires a cash deposit of at least $200
Low maximum credit line of just $2,500

{"backgroundColor":"white","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3 id=\"Discover\"\u003EDiscover it\u00ae Secured Credit Card\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match. \n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003E Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match. \\n\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"The Discover it\u00ae Secured Credit Card Review: Is It a Good Value?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/discover-it-secured-credit-card\"\u003EDiscover it\u00ae Secured Credit Card\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E card is one of the best options for cardholders trying to establish or rebuild credit, not only because it makes it easy to build credit, but also because it allows you to earn valuable cash back.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EHere's how it works: If you're approved for a card, you'll be asked to provide a refundable cash deposit that's equal to your credit line \u2013 for example, a $200 deposit for a $200 credit line, or a $500 deposit for a $500 credit line. As you use the card, you'll earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases - automatically. The cherry on top: Discover will match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year for new cardholders. Finally, if you use credit responsibly (i.e., you consistently pay off your balance in full), you may eventually reclaim your deposit and transition to an unsecured line of credit.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Earn cash back on all your purchases\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Matches cash back in the first year for new cardholders\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Requires a cash deposit of at least $200\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Low maximum credit line of just $2,500\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best rotating category card

Chase Freedom Flex℠

Rotating categories

Annual Fee

APR

14.99% - 23.74% Variable

Credit Needed

Excellent/Good

Editor's Rating

Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
Earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target® or Walmart® purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.
Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
Earn 5% on Chase travel purchased through Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.
No annual fee.
0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases, then a variable APR of 14.99 - 23.74%.
No minimum to redeem for cash back. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open.

+ see card details

Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. And earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target® or Walmart® purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.

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Our thoughts

Credit cards are supposed to make it easy to spend money.

The best credit cards, however, also make it easy to earn money. The Chase Freedom Flex℠ card is one of those cards, as it lets you Earn 5% cash back on eligible purchases in rotating categories, 5% on travel purchased through Chase, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases. As long as you don't mind enrolling in and keeping track of Chase's cashback calendar, you can score big in categories such as wholesale clubs and gas stations. Not to mention, unlike Discover's rotating cashback card, the Discover it® Cash Back, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers an ongoing bonus on restaurants and drugstore purchases. This wide array of earning opportunities makes the Chase Freedom Flex℠ the king of rotating category cards.

High rate of 5% cash back on rotating categories
Cash back never expires and can be redeemed in any amount
A great option for pairing with other Ultimate Rewards cards
You can enroll any time in the quarter to earn the 5% bonus for that quarter

Must enroll in categories each quarter to earn 5% cash back

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23.74% Variable\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003ECredit Needed\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003EExcellent\/Good\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EEditor's Rating\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-half\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-half\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E{\"rating\":90,\"stars\":5}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-hidden\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-content\"\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEarn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEarn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target\u00ae or Walmart\u00ae purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEarn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEarn 5% on Chase travel purchased through Ultimate Rewards\u00ae, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ENo annual fee.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases, then a variable APR of 14.99 - 23.74%.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ENo minimum to redeem for cash back. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--toggle\"\u003E\u003Ca aria-label=\"Toggle Open\/Closed\" class=\"ToggleText--link BenefitsBox--toggle-text link small\"\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"ToggleText--label\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl dBUYFD ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--undefined\" color=\"inherit\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E+ see card details\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"BenefitsBox\"\u003E{\"annualFee\":\"$0\",\"apr\":\"14.99% - 23.74% Variable\",\"bannerDisclaimers\":[\"On Chase's Secure Website\"],\"buttonColor\":\"primary\",\"buttonIcon\":\"lock\",\"buttonText\":\"Apply Now\",\"context\":\" in context: Banner\",\"creditNeeded\":\"Excellent\\\/Good\",\"creditNeededTooltip\":\"There are various types of credit scores. Each creditor uses a variety of different types of credit scores to make lending decisions.\",\"details\":\"\\u003Cul\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target\\u00ae or Walmart\\u00ae purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn 5% on Chase travel purchased through Ultimate Rewards\\u00ae, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003ENo annual fee.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases, then a variable APR of 14.99 - 23.74%.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003ENo minimum to redeem for cash back. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003C\\\/ul\\u003E\",\"editorRating\":\"\\u003Cdiv class=\\\"ReactComponent--root\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\\\"\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-half\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-half\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n \\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n\\n \\u003Cscript type=\\\"application\\\/json\\\" class=\\\"js-react-component\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E{\\\"rating\\\":90,\\\"stars\\\":5}\\u003C\\\/script\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\",\"editorRatingTooltip\":\"Our team rates credit cards objectively based on independent research, the features the credit card offers users, and how it compares with other available cards in its category. The ratings are the opinion of our editors, and are not influenced by any outside factors, including any compensation the site may receive from certain advertisers. Learn more on how we \\u003Cspan\\u003E\\u003Ca class=\\\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\\\" rel=\\\"nofollow\\\" title=\\\"Credit Card Methodology\\\" href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.valuepenguin.com\\\/credit-card-methodology\\\"\\u003Ecalculate rewards\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E.\",\"featuredTitle\":\"Rotating categories\",\"hideTitle\":true,\"imageURL\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cdn.comparecards.com\\\/uploads\\\/images\\\/items\\\/4572.jpg\",\"isUnavailable\":false,\"link\":\"\\\/credit-cards\\\/redirect\\\/1311?url=_best-credit-cards\",\"name\":\"Chase Freedom Flex\\u2120\",\"signUpBonus\":\"\",\"signUpBonusTitle\":\"Sign Up Bonus\"}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EEarn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. And earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target\u00ae or Walmart\u00ae purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EEarn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. And earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target\\u00ae or Walmart\\u00ae purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.\\n\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ECredit cards are supposed to make it easy to spend money.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe best credit cards, however, also make it easy to earn money. The \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Chase Freedom Flex: Why This New Card Is a No-Brainer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/chase-freedom-flex-card\"\u003EChase Freedom Flex℠\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E card is one of those cards, as it lets you Earn 5% cash back on eligible purchases in rotating categories, 5% on travel purchased through Chase, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases. As long as you don't mind enrolling in and keeping track of \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Chase Cash Back Calendar 2021: Q3 Categories Include Grocery Stores and Streaming Services\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/credit-cards\/chase-cash-back-calendar\"\u003EChase's cashback calendar\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E, you can score big in categories such as wholesale clubs and gas stations. Not to mention, unlike Discover's rotating cashback card, the Discover it\u00ae Cash Back, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers an ongoing bonus on restaurants and drugstore purchases. This wide array of earning opportunities makes the Chase Freedom Flex℠ the king of rotating category cards.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n High rate of 5% cash back on rotating categories\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Cash back never expires and can be redeemed in any amount\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n A great option for pairing with other Ultimate Rewards cards\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n You can enroll any time in the quarter to earn the 5% bonus for that quarter\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Must enroll in categories each quarter to earn 5% cash back\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best 0% intro APR credit card

Wells Fargo Platinum card

Get a 0% intro APR for 18 months on qualifying balance transfers and 0% intro APR for 18 months from account opening on purchases (16.49%-24.49% (Variable) APR thereafter).

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Our thoughts

"Platinum" credit cards have a reputation for over-the-top opulence, but the Wells Fargo Platinum card is an exception to the rule.

It's a simple Visa card that's geared toward people who want to take control of their finances and eliminate debt.

The card's principal benefit is a 0% intro APR for 18 months on qualifying balance transfers (16.49%-24.49% (Variable) APR thereafter). That's over a year of interest-free existence during which time you can either finance a big-ticket item or pay down debt that you accrued on other, less forgiving cards.

As with most balance transfer cards, you'll have to pay a balance transfer fee of 3% intro for 120 days from account opening, then up to 5%; min: $5. In return, however, you'll get the opportunity to make valuable progress toward your financial goals – not to mention a few other benefits, including up to $600 of cell phone protection, roadside dispatch and auto rental protection.

$0 annual fee
0% intro APR for 18 months on qualifying balance transfers (16.49%-24.49% (Variable) APR thereafter)
$600 of cell phone protection
Car rental insurance

Balance transfer fee of 3% intro for 120 days from account opening, then up to 5%; min: $5
Regular APR is high: 16.49%-24.49% (Variable)
No rewards program

{"backgroundColor":"white","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3 id=\"Wells\"\u003EWells Fargo Platinum card\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EGet a 0% intro APR for 18 months on qualifying balance transfers and 0% intro APR for 18 months from account opening on purchases (16.49%-24.49% (Variable) APR thereafter).\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EGet a 0% intro APR for 18 months on qualifying balance transfers and 0% intro APR for 18 months from account opening on purchases (16.49%-24.49% (Variable) APR thereafter).\\n\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\"Platinum\" credit cards have a reputation for over-the-top opulence, but the \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Wells Fargo Platinum Card Review: Is It Worth Applying For?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/wells-fargo-platinum-visa-credit-card\"\u003EWells Fargo Platinum card\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E is an exception to the rule.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeInset--root ShortcodeInset--justify-right ShortcodeInset--color-blue\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIt's a simple Visa card that's geared toward people who want to take control of their finances and eliminate debt.\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe card's principal benefit is a 0% intro APR for 18 months on qualifying balance transfers (16.49%-24.49% (Variable) APR thereafter). That's over a year of interest-free existence during which time you can either finance a big-ticket item or pay down debt that you accrued on other, less forgiving cards.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EAs with most balance transfer cards, you'll have to pay a balance transfer fee of 3% intro for 120 days from account opening, then up to 5%; min: $5. In return, however, you'll get the opportunity to make valuable progress toward your financial goals \u2013 not to mention a few other benefits, including up to $600 of cell phone protection, roadside dispatch and auto rental protection.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n $0 annual fee\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n 0% intro APR for 18 months on qualifying balance transfers (16.49%-24.49% (Variable) APR thereafter)\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n $600 of cell phone protection\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Car rental insurance\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Balance transfer fee of 3% intro for 120 days from account opening, then up to 5%; min: $5\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Regular APR is high: 16.49%-24.49% (Variable)\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n No rewards program\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best restaurant credit card

Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card

Earn a one-time $300 cash bonus once you spend $3,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

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Our thoughts

If you love dining out, the Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card belongs in your wallet. Designed for anyone who spends a lot of money on restaurants, sports, concerts and theater, it lets you Earn unlimited 4% cash back on dining, entertainment & popular streaming services, plus 3% at grocery stores and 1% on other purchases. Cardmembers also Earn a one-time $300 cash bonus once you spend $3,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening. Not to mention all the other benefits for food and entertainment nuts, including access to exclusive culinary experiences and VIP tickets to concerts and sporting events. The card's annual fee ($95) is a small price to pay for these benefits.

Earn unlimited 4% cash back on dining, entertainment & popular streaming services, plus 3% at grocery stores and 1% on other purchases.
Exclusive culinary experiences and VIP tickets to concerts and sporting events

$95 annual fee
No 0% introductory APR
Useful only to consumers who spend on food and entertainment

{"backgroundColor":"white","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3 id=\"One\"\u003ECapital One\u00ae Savor\u00ae Cash Rewards Credit Card\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EEarn a one-time $300 cash bonus once you spend $3,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EEarn a one-time $300 cash bonus once you spend $3,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening\\n\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you love dining out, the \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card Review: Is It Worth Applying?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/capital-one-savor-rewards-credit-card\"\u003ECapital One\u00ae Savor\u00ae Cash Rewards Credit Card\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E belongs in your wallet. Designed for anyone who spends a lot of money on restaurants, sports, concerts and theater, it lets you Earn unlimited 4% cash back on dining, entertainment & popular streaming services, plus 3% at grocery stores and 1% on other purchases. Cardmembers also Earn a one-time $300 cash bonus once you spend $3,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening. Not to mention all the other benefits for food and entertainment nuts, including access to exclusive culinary experiences and VIP tickets to concerts and sporting events. The card's annual fee ($95) is a small price to pay for these benefits.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Earn unlimited 4% cash back on dining, entertainment & popular streaming services, plus 3% at grocery stores and 1% on other purchases.\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Exclusive culinary experiences and VIP tickets to concerts and sporting events\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \n\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n $95 annual fee\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n No 0% introductory APR\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Useful only to consumers who spend on food and entertainment\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best credit card for groceries

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Grocery

Annual Fee

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95

APR

13.99%-23.99% Variable

Credit Needed

Excellent/Good

Editor's Rating

Earn a $300 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 plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months after account opening. Plans created after that will have a plan fee up to 1.33% of each 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% for 12 months on purchases from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.99% to 23.99%
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 and 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.
Terms Apply.

+ see card details

$300 back after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.

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Our thoughts

If there's one thing everybody needs, it's groceries. That's what makes the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express card such an attractive card: It offers serious cash back on everyday purchases that almost everyone makes, including supermarkets and gas. Cardholders receive 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 and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more), 1% Cash Back on other purchases. Terms apply.

There's a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee, and cash back typically can only be redeemed as statement credits (although American Express sometimes lets you redeem rewards for gift cards or merchandise, instead). Though its redemption options aren't as flexible as, say, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, it's a solid offering for anyone who wants to profit from their most frequent purchases.

For rates and fees of Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, please click here.

High rate of 6% cash back on U.S. supermarket purchases (redeemable for statement credits)
Intro APR of 0% on purchases for 12 months (then 13.99%-23.99% Variable APR)
Terms apply

Annual fee: $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
The 6% rate at U.S. supermarkets is limited to $6,000 in purchases per year; after that, you earn only 1%
Minimum $25 required to redeem cash back
Cash back typically can be redeemed for statement credits
Terms apply

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color=\"inherit\" name=\"lock\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--root\"\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--item\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/blue-cash-preferred-credit-card\/26129-10-0\/?print#terms-details\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ESee Rates & Fees.\u003C\/a\u003E Terms Apply. \u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--item\"\u003EOn American Express' Secure Website \u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--fields\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--fields-bottom\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EAnnual Fee\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EAPR\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E13.99%-23.99% Variable\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003ECredit Needed\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003EExcellent\/Good\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EEditor's Rating\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root 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first 6 months.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBuy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 plan fees when you use Plan It\u00ae to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months after account opening. 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Each creditor uses a variety of different types of credit scores to make lending decisions.\",\"details\":\"\\u003Cul\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn a $300 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EBuy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 plan fees when you use Plan It\\u00ae to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months after account opening. Plans created after that will have a plan fee up to 1.33% of each purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003ELow intro APR: 0% for 12 months on purchases from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.99% to 23.99%\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis\\\/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E1% Cash Back on other purchases.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003ECash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003ETerms Apply.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003C\\\/ul\\u003E\",\"editorRating\":\"\\u003Cdiv class=\\\"ReactComponent--root\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"StyledStarRating-sc-c10iah jKtZiW\\\"\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-empty\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-empty\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n \\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n\\n \\u003Cscript type=\\\"application\\\/json\\\" class=\\\"js-react-component\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E{\\\"rating\\\":76,\\\"stars\\\":5}\\u003C\\\/script\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\",\"editorRatingTooltip\":\"Our team rates credit cards objectively based on independent research, the features the credit card offers users, and how it compares with other available cards in its category. The ratings are the opinion of our editors, and are not influenced by any outside factors, including any compensation the site may receive from certain advertisers. Learn more on how we \\u003Cspan\\u003E\\u003Ca class=\\\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\\\" rel=\\\"nofollow\\\" title=\\\"Credit Card Methodology\\\" href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.valuepenguin.com\\\/credit-card-methodology\\\"\\u003Ecalculate rewards\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E.\",\"featuredTitle\":\"Grocery\",\"hideTitle\":true,\"imageURL\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cdn.comparecards.com\\\/uploads\\\/images\\\/items\\\/4327.jpg\",\"isUnavailable\":false,\"link\":\"\\\/credit-cards\\\/redirect\\\/495?url=_best-credit-cards\",\"name\":\"Blue Cash Preferred\\u00ae Card from American Express\",\"signUpBonus\":\"\",\"signUpBonusTitle\":\"Welcome Offer\"}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Panel\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"PanelRoot-sc-1o7qkaw efMzqR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Panel--content\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E$300 back after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Panel\"\u003E{\"backgroundColor\":\"ice\",\"content\":\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003E$300 back after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.\\n\",\"padding\":\"double\"}\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EOur thoughts\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIf there's one thing everybody needs, it's groceries. That's what makes the \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Blue Cash Preferred from American Express Card: Big Cash Back, Small Annual Fee\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/blue-cash-preferred-card\"\u003EBlue Cash Preferred\u00ae Card from American Express\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E card such an attractive card: It offers serious cash back on everyday purchases that almost everyone makes, including supermarkets and gas. Cardholders receive 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 and on transit (including taxis\/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more), 1% Cash Back on other purchases. Terms apply.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThere's a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee, and cash back typically can only be redeemed as statement credits (although American Express sometimes lets you redeem rewards for gift cards or merchandise, instead). Though its redemption options aren't as flexible as, say, the Chase Sapphire Preferred\u00ae Card, it's a solid offering for anyone who wants to profit from their most frequent purchases.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeDisclaimer--root ShortcodeDisclaimer--root \"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ContextualDisclaimer--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cp class=\"ContextualDisclaimer--copy\"\u003E\n \u003Cp\u003EFor rates and fees of Blue Cash Preferred\u00ae Card from American Express, please click \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" rel=\"nofollow\" title=\"here\" href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/blue-cash-preferred-credit-card\/26129-10-0\/#terms-details?print\"\u003Ehere\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n \n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EBenefits\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-check-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n High rate of 6% cash back on U.S. supermarket purchases (redeemable for statement credits)\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Intro APR of 0% on purchases for 12 months (then 13.99%-23.99% Variable APR)\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Terms apply\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003EDrawbacks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--icon-times-circle\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Annual fee: $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n The 6% rate at U.S. supermarkets is limited to $6,000 in purchases per year; after that, you earn only 1%\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Minimum $25 required to redeem cash back\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Cash back typically can be redeemed for statement credits\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Terms apply\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\n\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Compare best credit cards

	Welcome offer	Earning rate	Annual fee
Best for rewards: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card	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®.	5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3X points on dining and 2X points on all other travel purchases	$95	Apply Now On Chase's Secure Website
Best for cash back: Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer	No bonus	Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.	$0	Apply Now On Citibank's Secure Website
Best for small businesses: Capital One Spark Cash for Business	Earn a one-time $500 cash bonus once you spend $4,500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening	2% Cash Back for your business on every purchase, everywhere	$0 intro for first year; $95 after that

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What beginners need to know about credit cards

How do credit cards work?

On its face, a credit card is a piece of plastic that you can use to pay for things. If you're new to credit cards, however, it's important to understand not just what they are, but how they work.

When you use a credit card to make a purchase, you're borrowing money from the institution – a bank, for example, or credit union – that issued you the card. Every time you make a purchase, it's like taking out a loan.

When you make a credit card payment, you're paying that loan back. You can pay it off in full immediately or piecemeal over time. If you choose the latter, interest will accrue each month, such that your purchase becomes more expensive the longer you take to pay for it.

Credit card companies

Credit cards are issued by banks, credit unions, and credit card companies (or issuers) in conjunction with credit card payment networks. The issuer brands the card and provides the funds while the payment network facilitates transactions.

There are four major credit card networks:

Visa
Mastercard

American Express
Discover

The major credit card issuers include:

American Express is both a credit card network and credit card issuer. Where you can use your card will depend on the network (i.e., some merchants might not accept Discover). The credit card company will usually determine qualification requirements, rewards, interest rates and other fees.

Types of credit cards

Aside from being a convenient form of payment, credit cards frequently offer additional benefits. There are many different types of credit cards, depending on the benefits offered, including:

Travel

A travel rewards credit card is designed for frequent travelers, who can earn rewards when they use the card for travel expenditures and/or later redeem those rewards for travel-related perks, like free or discounted airline tickets and hotel rooms.

Cash back

A cashback credit card gives you a percentage of your purchases back to you in the form of cash rewards. Depending on the card, you might earn:

A flat-rate of cash back across all your purchases
A variable rate that's higher or lower according to the purchase category – for example, 4% cash back at supermarkets and 2% cash back at gas stations.

Although options vary by card, cardholders typically have a number of redemption choices, including cash rewards for travel, gift cards or merchandise; a deposit into a bank account; or credits against charges on your credit card statement.

Balance transfer

A balance transfer credit card is geared toward people who want to consolidate credit card debt for the purpose of paying it down. Balance transfer cards typically offer a 0% introductory APR for an extended period of time during which you can transfer balances from other cards and allow them to sit – interest-free – while you pay them off. If you don't pay them off, however, transferred balances begin accruing interest as soon as the introductory APR expires.

0% intro APR

When a credit card offers a 0% introductory APR, that means its issuer promises not to charge you interest on purchases and/or balance transfers for a limited time. During that time, you can carry a balance – i.e., defer paying your bill – with no penalty. This can be useful if you need to consolidate and pay down debt from other credit cards, or if you want to make a large purchase and pay for it over time instead of all at once.

Student

A student credit card is designed especially for college students to help them learn how to use and manage credit. Because students typically have no or little credit history and very low incomes, they tend to have higher interest rates and lower credit limits than regular credit cards, and may require a cosigner if the applicant doesn't have sufficient income – from a part-time job, for example – to meet the card issuer's requirements.

Building credit

Some credit cards are designed especially for people who need to build credit, including young people who are establishing credit for the first time and people who are seeking to rebuild their credit after previously damaging it. Such cards often are "secured" cards, which means they're backed by collateral in the form of a cash deposit. If you use credit responsibly for a period of time, the issuer eventually will return your deposit and allow you to graduate to an unsecured credit card.

Because they may be easier to obtain and often have more restricted uses, store credit cards – credit cards issued by a retailer for use only at their stores – also can be useful for building credit.

How to use a credit card

A credit card can be a valuable tool with which to build a strong financial future. Or, it can be a flamethrower with which to torch said future. The difference lies in how you use the credit cards that you have. Here are a few tips to help you wield your plastic responsibly:

1. Avoid getting too many cards

Applying for too many credit cards at once can hurt your credit score by making it look like you're having a hard time getting approved, or like you're amassing credit in order to make a big purchase you can't afford. Moreover, having multiple cards means having multiple balances to keep track of. If you limit yourself to just one or two cards, it will be easier to keep tabs on your spending and payments.

2. Use credit often, but sparingly

It's not enough to just have a credit card; if you want to establish a good credit history, you've also got to use it. Doing so shows lenders not only that you can qualify for credit, but that you know how to use it responsibly. You should therefore use your credit card regularly – at least a few times a month. Be careful, though: Credit utilization (i.e., the amount of available credit that you actually use) is a major factor in your credit score, and you should aim to keep it low. How low, exactly? Under 30% is a good rule. If you have a credit limit of $5,000, that means you should never have a credit card balance of more than $1,500 at any one time.

3. Pay your bill on time

Using a credit card is like taking out a loan. Every month, you've got to repay the loan by paying your bill. Your card issuer will give you a minimum amount that's due, and you must pay that amount by the due date; if you don't, your interest rate might go up and you may have to pay late fees, both of which can keep you from reaching your financial goals.

4. Avoid carrying a balance

Although you don't have to pay your balance in full every month, you should. If you don't, the remainder will accumulate interest, which will cost you money and create a debt hole that might be hard to climb out of. Imagine, for example, that your credit card interest rate is 18%, and that you owe $1,000. Your minimum monthly payment is $50. If you stop using the card and only pay the minimum, it will take you five years to pay off the balance, during which time you'll accrue $360 in interest. That means paying $1,360 for $1,000 worth of purchases. Now imagine that you owe more than $1,000, and that you continue using your card; it's easy to see how debt spirals begin.

How to choose the best credit card for you

Not all credit cards are created equal. To find the one that's best suited to your needs and goals, take the following steps:

1. Pull your credit score

Some credit cards are reserved only for applicants who have an excellent credit history, while others have more lenient requirements. In order to qualify, you'll need to have a credit score that meets that card's requirements. Credit card issuers use your credit score to determine your creditworthiness.

This is why it helps to know your credit score going into credit card applications, so you can narrow down your options to only those you have a good chance at qualifying for. Here are some ways to get your credit score for free:

Some credit cards offer your free credit score, so check to see if yours does.
Discover Bank's Credit Scorecard is available to anyone, even if you don't bank with them.
Experian's CreditWorks Basic subscription is free and includes your credit score and credit monitoring.
Your bank or credit union might be able to give you your credit score.

The most common credit score is a FICO® Score, which is calculated using variables such as the length of your credit history, your track record for on-time payments and your credit utilization (i.e., how much of your available credit you use), among other things. FICO® Scores range as follows:

Poor credit: Under 580
Fair credit: Between 580 and 669
Good credit: Between 670 and 739
Very Good credit: Between 740 and 799
Excellent credit: 800 and above

We suggest that you have good to excellent credit for your best chances at qualifying for a top credit card.

2. Evaluate your spending needs

You should choose a card that is suited to your spending habits and financial goals:

A travel rewards credit card makes perfect sense if you're a frequent traveler, for example
A cashback credit card is ideal if you're saving up to buy new clothes or Christmas presents for your kids.
If you're struggling with debt, meanwhile, a balance transfer card might be a better choice.
And if you've just bought your first home, a credit card with 0% introductory APR might help you afford new appliances or furniture.

3. Decide what type of rewards you want

Assuming you can qualify for one, a rewards credit card is a great way to make money while you spend it. But rewards come in many different shapes, including miles, points and dollars.

You might choose one over the other because it's easier to track – if you're considering cash back versus miles, for example, cash back might seem more straightforward.
Or, if you do the math, you might find that miles are worth more to you than cash back or points.

4. Evaluate your spending patterns

Your personal spending habits should shape your search for a credit card.

For example, if a credit card offers significant cash back on groceries and gas, but you eat most of your meals at restaurants and take the bus everywhere you go, that's probably not the right card for you.

Likewise, many credit cards come with attractive welcome bonuses that require you to spend a certain amount of money within a certain timeframe. If a welcome bonus mandates that you spend $5,000 in three months, but you typically only charge $1,000 per month, then it may not be worthwhile.

Still other cards charge hefty annual fees. If you spend enough money to accumulate sufficient rewards, the annual fee can pay for itself; but if you don't, the annual fee might prove beyond your reach.

5. Look at other credit card benefits

Like all businesses, credit card issuers compete for customers. Therefore, they often offer a slew of value-added benefits designed to sway you to do business with them instead of their competitors. Common benefits include:

Car rental protection that covers you in the event of a rental car collision
Cell phone protection that reimburses you for a lost or damaged phone
Travel insurance that covers you in case a trip is delayed or canceled
Travel credits that you can use toward baggage fees or in-flight refreshments
Purchase protection that reimburses you in the event that your newest treasure is accidentally damaged or stolen.

Shop around – if you're going to get a new credit card, you might as well choose one with benefits that appeal to you.

How to compare credit card offers

Once you know what you're looking for in a credit card – what kind of card you want, for example, what rewards appeal to you and which benefits you want to avail yourself of – you can begin comparing cards to determine which ones offer the best value. Specifically, you should consider the following variables and use your yearly credit card spend as a barometer to gauge potential returns:

Earning rate

If you're comparing rewards cards, it's important to understand how many miles or points your spending can earn you with a given card, or how much cash back.

Redemption value

Earning rewards is one thing; redeeming them is another entirely. Often, rewards are worth 1 cent per point or mile. That can vary, however, according to the card and even according to redemption preference (e.g., for travel versus merchandise or gift cards). Calculating rewards value requires doing some research and some math.

Sign-up bonus

Many cards offer a welcome or sign-up bonus; a side-by-side comparison can help you determine which offers are the most lucrative.

Annual fee

Some of the best credit cards for rewards charge an annual fee. A higher fee, however, often translates to better rewards, in which case the price of admission might be worth it.

Net return

When you add up the value of a card's rewards and bonus and subtract the sum of its fees, you end up with a net return by which to perform an apples-to-apples comparison between cards.

Value of other benefits

Don't forget to consider cards' ancillary benefits, which can add significantly to their value proposition. If a card offers a $200 travel credit, for example, that's like having $200 in your pocket. And if your card offers car rental insurance, that means you can decline the rental company's expensive coverage when it's offered.

Here's an example comparison between two cards – the Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer and Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express. As you can see, though the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express charges a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee, it can be a better value in the first year:

	Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer	Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Earning rate	Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.	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 and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more), 1% Cash Back on other purchases. Terms apply.
Redemption value (e.g., on $5,000 in supermarket purchases and $15,000 in other purchases)	$20,000 x 2% = $400	$15,000 x 1% = $150 $5,000 x 6% = $300
Welcome offer	No bonus	$300 back after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Annual fee	$0	$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95. For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, please click here.
Net return in first year	$400	$450
Other benefits	No other significant benefits	Car rental insurance Return protection Purchase protection ShopRunner membership (enrollment required)
	Apply Now On Citibank's Secure Website	Apply Now See Rates & Fees. Terms Apply. On American Express' Secure Website

What is a good APR for a credit card?

APR stands for "Annual Percentage Rate." Essentially, it's the amount of interest you are charged per year for carrying a balance on your credit card. Credit card issuers determine APR based on your creditworthiness; the better your credit, the better your APR. With that in mind, the best APR is the lowest. The following chart can help you gauge whether your APR is low, high or typical for the type of card you have:

Credit card type	Low	High	Overall
Travel rewards cards	15.26%	23.35%	19.31%
Airline cards	15.99%	24.26%	20.13%
Hotel cards	15.67%	23.99%	19.83%
Low-interest cards	12.85%	22.03%	17.44%
Cash back cards	15.08%	22.35%	18.72%
Student cards	15.79%	21.79%	18.79%

How to apply for a credit card and get approved

Once you've decided what kind of credit card you want, it's time to set about getting it. Here's how:

Find a card that matches your credit score range

When you're applying for a credit card, you can set yourself up for success by pursuing a card that complements your credit score. Here are our top picks for each credit score range:

Make sure your credit application is complete

When an issuer is deciding whether to grant you a credit card, your credit score is a big factor. But it's not the only factor. Typically, credit card applications also ask you to supply information about your debts and income. Although you shouldn't overstate your income or understate your debt, you can improve your chances of being approved by making sure the information on your application is accurate, comprehensive and complete. If you earn income outside of your primary employment, for example – from a side gig, perhaps – be sure to include it. Likewise, include income from your partner or spouse; if you're 21 or over, credit card issuers are allowed to consider overall household income as part of your application.

Don't apply for too many cards at once

Be judicious about applying for credit cards. When you apply for a card, the issuer checks your credit history, which creates what's known as a "hard inquiry" on your credit report. If you apply for too many cards at one time, it will create multiple hard inquiries, which can have a negative impact on your credit report by suggesting either that your applications for credit are being denied or that you're preparing to take on a large amount of debt that you might be unable to repay.

Check for prequalified offers

If you apply for credit cards whose requirements are beyond your reach, you can end up shooting yourself in the foot. Not only will your application be denied, but you'll also generate a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can lower your credit score to the detriment of the next application you submit. You can reduce the risk by embracing prequalified offers. Such offers often arrive by mail, but you can also check for them online via bank and issuer websites.

Simply enter your information and the issuer will conduct a "soft inquiry" on your credit report that does not impact your credit score; the issuer will then present you with a list of prequalified offers based on your creditworthiness. Prequalification is not a guarantee that your application will be approved, but it's a good indicator that you might be.

Try applying through your bank

You can apply for a credit card by mail, online or over the phone. You also can apply in person at your bank. If you have a poor or limited credit history, that might be the way to go – especially if you have a good relationship with your banker, in which case they might be willing to personally shepherd your application through the review process and advocate internally for its approval.

FAQs about credit cards

How many credit cards should I have?

Experts say two or three is a good number of credit cards for most people to have. But the truth is: There is no magic number. You can have one card or five. What's most important is that you only charge your credit cards what you can afford to pay back in full every month.

What is a secured credit card?

A secured credit card is a credit card that's backed by collateral, typically in the form of a cash deposit. If you use credit responsibly over time, the credit card issuer eventually will return your deposit and allow you to graduate to an unsecured credit card for which no collateral is required.

What credit score do you need to get a top credit card?

Top cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and the The Platinum Card® from American Express will require very good to excellent credit to qualify. These top cards certainly won't be your first credit card, but you can work toward qualification after exercising good credit habits on starter cards first.

How can you get a credit card with bad credit or no credit?

If you have bad credit, or no credit at all, you may still be able to qualify for a credit card. The best credit cards for someone with bad credit are secured credit cards, which you obtain by making a cash deposit that can serve as collateral. Alternatively, you might be able to obtain a card by applying with a cosigner who has good credit and agrees to share responsibility for the card's balance.

What is the best credit card overall?

While we believe that the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is the best credit card overall, know that there is no single "best" credit card for everyone. There are, however, top credit cards that are better or worse for you depending on your unique situation, preference and goals. Use the tips in this guide to help you find and choose the card that suits you best.

How do you pick the best credit card for you?

Credit cards are exciting, as they come with a whole suite of perks just for being a cardholder. That being said, you need to consider your spending habits, credit score, preferred rewards type and long-term benefits to find the best credit cards. The best credit card for you will help you optimize your current spending while offering perks that make sense for your lifestyle.

Which bank credit card is best?

Banks are just one type of credit card issuer. Credit unions also issue credit cards, as do payment networks like American Express and Discover. The information in this guide can help you evaluate and compare all credit cards, regardless of who's issuing them.

What is the best first credit card?

If you're looking for your first credit card, a student card is a good choice – provided you're in school. Check out the Discover it® Student Cash Back card, which offers solid rewards, an enticing welcome bonus and application terms that are geared toward first-time credit cardholders. If you're not a student, consider an entry-level rewards card like the Discover it® Cash Back, or a secured card like the Discover it® Secured Credit Card.

How long does it take to get a credit card?

Not long at all: You can get approved for a credit card within minutes of submitting an application online. Your new card typically will arrive in the mail seven to 10 days later but can take up to 14 days.

What are the easiest credit cards to get approved for?

Because they're backed by a cash deposit, secured credit cards generally have the fewest barriers to entry. Ultimately, though, ease of approval depends on your credit score and credit history. Someone with excellent credit, for example, generally will qualify quickly and easily for almost any card they want, while someone with poor credit might struggle to qualify for even the least stringent cards. If you're concerned about being approved for a card, look for prequalified offers: In exchange for some basic information, issuers will conduct a "soft inquiry" on your credit report – which doesn't affect your credit score – and present you with a list of cards that you are likely to be approved for based on your creditworthiness.

How do credit card miles work?

If you have a travel rewards card, you'll likely accrue rewards in the form of credit card miles. You earn miles every time you make a purchase–typically at different rates for different spending categories, depending on which card you have. When you have accrued enough miles in your account, you can redeem them for free or discounted flights, or sometimes even for hotel rooms. How many miles you need before you can redeem them will depend on what card you have, what airline you wish to fly and where you're flying to/from.

How old must you be to get a credit card?

The minimum age to get a credit card of your own is 18, although parents may make children under 18 authorized users on their accounts if they wish.

Should I get a credit card?

For most people, getting a credit card is a good idea. If you use it responsibly, it can help you build a strong credit score that will serve you later in life by making it easier to qualify for a mortgage, get a car loan and maybe even secure a job. And if you have a rewards card, having a credit card can even help you save money. For some people, however, a credit card is more harmful than helpful. If you're prone to debt, lack control over your spending and generally have trouble managing money, it might serve you better to abstain from having a credit card.

What credit cards give you access to airport lounges?

If you're a frequent traveler, airport lounges can be home away from home. Unfortunately, membership can be expensive. That is, unless you have a card that grants you lounge access as one of its benefits. Such cards include The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve®.

Does applying for a credit card affect your credit?

Yes. Every time you apply for a card, the issuer checks your credit history. That creates what's known as a "hard inquiry" on your credit report. If you apply for too many cards at one time, it will create multiple hard inquiries, which can have a negative impact on your credit score by suggesting either that your applications for credit are being denied or that you're preparing to take on a large amount of debt that you can't afford.

For rates and fees of the The Platinum Card® from American Express, please click here.

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, please click here.

For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, please click here.

The information related to the Wells Fargo Platinum card, Discover it® Secured Credit Card, Discover it® Cash Back, Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card, Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card and Discover it® Student Cash Back has been independently collected by ValuePenguin and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply to American Express credit card offers. See americanexpress.com for more information.

These responses are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser's responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.

Advertiser Disclosure: The products that appear on this site may be from companies from which ValuePenguin receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). ValuePenguin does not include all financial institutions or all products offered available in the marketplace.

How We Calculate Rewards: ValuePenguin calculates the value of rewards by estimating the dollar value of any points, miles or bonuses earned using the card less any associated annual fees. These estimates here are ValuePenguin's alone, not those of the card issuer, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the credit card issuer.

Example of how we calculate the rewards rates: When redeemed for travel through Ultimate Rewards, Chase Sapphire Preferred points are worth $0.0125 each. The card awards 2 points on travel and dining and 1 point on everything else. Therefore, we say the card has a 2.5% rewards rate on dining and travel (2 x $0.0125) and a 1.25% rewards rate on everything else (1 x $0.0125).