7 Best Gas Credit Cards of September 2021
7 Best Gas Credit Cards of September 2021
With one of the highest available rewards rates for gas and generous rewards rates in several other categories, the PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card is an easy pick for the best all-around gas credit card.
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.
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Top gas credit cards 2021
Best for gas and groceries
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- See Rates & Fees. Terms Apply.
- On American Express' Secure Website
Best for cash back without categories
Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer
- On Citibank's Secure Website
New to gas credit cards?
Gas is a regular purchase for many consumers and is one of the best categories for earning credit card rewards. The average American consumer spends about $2,000 per year on gas, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. With some of the best gas credit cards offering 3% to 5% cash back on gas purchases, you can easily earn $100 or more in rewards just by fueling up with the right card.
With so many credit cards available in 2021, it can be tricky to know how to pick a gas credit card that's right for you. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the gas card that will be the most rewarding for your lifestyle:
- Stick with non-branded gas credit cards: Choosing a credit card that's affiliated with one particular gas station brand can limit your earning potential. You're better off picking a general gas card so you can earn rewards whenever and wherever you decide to fill up.
- Go with a gas card that also earns in other categories: The best way to get the most value out of your gas credit card is to choose a card that earns rewards in multiple categories. For example, if you pick a card that earns 2X points on gas and groceries, your card becomes exponentially more useful, as you'll earn rewards not only on all your gas purchases, but in another major household spending category as well.
- Have a goal in mind when selecting a gas credit card: Maybe you'd prefer a gas card that earns rewards points you can use towards travel rather than cash back. Maybe you're annual fee averse. Whatever your preferences, you'll want to choose a gas card that complements your lifestyle and spending habits.
Best gas credit cards of 2021
Gas credit card | Earning rate | Savings on your commute | Annual fee | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best all around PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card | Earn 2% on grocery store purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants and 4% on gas station purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually. 1% cash back on purchases everywhere, every time. | $50.31 | $0 | Read Review |
How to choose a gas credit card
Choosing a gas credit card can be difficult. You'll want to consider the following points when determining which card is best suited for your needs:
- Consider if you prefer to stick with one particular gas station brand or if you simply visit the cheapest station around.
- Determine if you want to earn rewards with your gas card.
- Examine whether or not you want a card that rewards you for purchases other than gas.
- Think about what's most important to you in a gas credit card and choose one that aligns with your preferences and needs. These should include things like cost of card ownership, value of benefits like branded incentives, purchase protections, sign-up bonuses and more.
- Identify whether or not your credit score is high enough to be approved for a particular card, and how hard it is to get a particular gas card. Be sure you can afford the annual fee (if any) and will be able to attain the sign-up bonus if one is offered. When used frequently and responsibly, gas credit cards can help improve your credit score, which is a valuable benefit if your score could use a boost.
Types of gas credit cards
There are several types of gas credit cards. They include the following:
- Rewards cards – Many consumers simply want to save money on gas and visit the cheapest station around. A general rewards card that offers a bonus on gas purchases, like the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, is the best way to do just that. Keep in mind that some cards distinguish between U.S. gas stations and gas stations worldwide. So if you travel often and fuel up on gas in other countries, it is important to find a card that’ll give you rewards on those purchases.
- Cashback cards – These cards earn cash back in various spending categories, such as the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi.
- Co-branded* gas cards – These cards are affiliated with a particular gas station brand and only earn cash back at their respective gas stations, such as the BP Visa® Credit Card.
- Sign-up bonus cards – These cards offer a sign-up bonus once you're approved for the card, like the PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card. A strong sign-up bonus can be a great way to get more value from your card.
- No annual fee cards – These types of cards don't charge an annual fee, which can be very useful long-term. One great example is the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express.
*Some co-branded cards can only be used for gas purchases at that vendor.
Best all around gas rewards card
PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card
Earn 4% cash back on gas station purchases (in-store and at the pump).
Verdict: The most rewarding card for gas station purchases
Of the gas station credit cards on this list, we feel the PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card has the best gas rewards program of 2021. It comes with a valuable and easily accessible sign-up bonus: Earn $100 Bonus after you make $1,000 or more in purchases during the first 3 billing cycles following account opening of a PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card.
With a $0 annual fee and an intro APR on balance transfers of 0% for the first 12 billing cycles following account opening when the balance is transferred within the first 90 days following account opening (followed by a 13.99%-24.99% Variable APR), this card's perks will benefit you beyond the gas station. This is also one of the best credit cards for gas and restaurants: Earn 2% on grocery store purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants and 4% on gas station purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually. 1% cash back on purchases everywhere, every time.
Maximize rewards: You'll earn rewards in the form of cash back, which you can redeem any time you have at least $25 in your PNC Cash Rewards account. Your cash back never expires as long as your account is open. Get your cash back as a statement credit or deposited into a qualifying PNC account.
- $0 annual fee
- Intro APR on balance transfers of 0% for the first 12 billing cycles following account opening when the balance is transferred within the first 90 days following account opening, then a 13.99%-24.99% Variable APR applies
- High rewards rate on gas and other categories
- Excellent sign-up bonus
- High rewards rate is capped at $8,000 in combined purchases annually
Fuel Savings: $50.31 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas rewards card for Costco gas
Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
- On Citibank's Secure Website
$0
15.24% (Variable)
Excellent
- Discover one of Citi's best cash back rewards cards designed exclusively for Costco members
- 4% cash back on eligible gas for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
- 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
- 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
- No annual fee with your paid Costco membership and enjoy no foreign transaction fees on purchases
- Receive an annual credit card reward certificate, which is redeemable for cash or merchandise at U.S. Costco warehouses, including Puerto Rico
- The standard variable APR for Citi Flex Plan is 15.24%. Citi Flex Plan offers are made available at Citi's discretion.
Earn 4% cash back at Costco or any other gas station worldwide (up to $7,000 in purchases per year)
Verdict: The most rewarding card for frequent Costco shoppers
If you frequently visit your local Costco, the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi is a must have. While it is a Costco-branded card, you can use this credit card at any vendor that accepts Visa.
Maximize rewards: The most significant feature of the card is the 4% cash back (up to $7,000 per year) you can earn at gas stations worldwide. If maximized, that is $280 per year back in your pocket. And with the additional savings you could earn by filling up at Costco, this can amount to a great amount of cash back.
- 4% cash back on eligible gas for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter, 3% on restaurants & travel, 2% at Costco & Costco.com, 1% on all other purchases
- Bonus cash back on large purchase categories like restaurants and Costco.
- $0 annual fee
- 0% foreign transaction fees
- No sign-up bonus
- You must have a Costco membership to have this card. If your Costco membership is canceled, your card will become inactive a few months later; if this occurs, any remaining cash back will be forfeited
- Your cash back comes in the form of a certificate once per year; if you cancel your Costco membership before you receive your certificate, you forfeit all your cash back
Fuel Savings: $50.31 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best credit card for gas and grocery rewards
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- See Rates & Fees. Terms Apply.
- On American Express' Secure Website
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
13.99%-23.99% Variable
Excellent/Good
- Earn 20% back on Amazon.com purchases on the Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $200 back.
- Plus, earn $150 back after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. You will receive cash back in the form of statement credits.
- $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
- 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.
- Low intro APR: 0% for 12 months on purchases from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.99% to 23.99%
- Plan It® gives the option to select purchases of $100 or more to split up into monthly payments with a fixed fee.
- Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
- Terms Apply.
Earn 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more), redeemable for statement credits.
Verdict: High rewards rates in many everyday spending categories
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a great product for consumers who fill up their car regularly. This card is also great for families, who are likely to spend heavily in its bonus categories, especially U.S. supermarkets and streaming services. The card has a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95, which may be well worth it if you spend a lot on supermarkets and gas – you'll be able to earn hundreds of dollars per year in valuable cash back.
You'll earn 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. Your rewards can easily be redeemed for statement credits to cover your purchases.
Maximize rewards: The best way to earn more cash back with this card is to focus on the categories where you earn the most, including at U.S. gas stations and U.S. supermarkets.
For rates and fees of Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, please click here.
- Excellent cashback categories, including unlimited 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations
- Intro APR of 0% on purchases for 12 months (13.99%-23.99% Variable APR thereafter)
- Great welcome offer — Earn a $150 back after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. (in the form of a statement credit)
- Secondary rental car insurance
- Access to the American Express Global Assist Hotline
- Terms apply
- $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
- Gas stations must be located in the U.S. to qualify for the 3% cashback rate, and the card charges a foreign transaction fee of 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars. (you might consider other cards if you drive and have to fuel up frequently while abroad)
- The 6% bonus on U.S. supermarkets is capped at $6,000 in purchases each year. After that, you will earn 1% cash back
- Terms apply.
Fuel Savings: $37.73 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas rewards card for cash back without spending categories
Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer
- On Citibank's Secure Website
$0
13.99% – 23.99% (Variable)
Excellent/Good
- 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.
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
Verdict: Simple cashback rewards for all purchases, including gas
The Citi® Double Cash Card is one of the market-leading cashback credit cards available. It’s a simple card that packs a punch with tangible cashback earning potential. The card lets you Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
This provides a no-hassle experience, since you do not need to track spending categories like other cards — simply swipe and earn your 2% cash back. On the downside, while the cashback potential is endless, the card lacks additional features and benefits.
Maximize rewards: Because this card allows you to earn cash back on every purchase, the best way to maximize your rewards earning potential is simply to spend more on your card. The more you spend, the more you'll earn.
- Outstanding rewards rate: Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
- Intro APR 0% for 18 months on Balance Transfers. After that, the APR will be 13.99% – 23.99% (Variable)
- Few other notable features
Fuel Savings: $25.15 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas rewards card with no annual fee
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
- See Rates & Fees. Terms Apply.
- On American Express' Secure Website
$0
13.99%-23.99% Variable
Excellent/Good
- Earn 20% back on Amazon.com purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card membership, up to $150 back.
- Plus, earn $100 back after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of card membership. You will receive cash back in the form of statement credits.
- 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%).
- 2% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations and at select U.S. department stores.
- 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
- Low intro APR: 0% for 15 months on purchases from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.99% to 23.99%.
- Plan It® gives the option to select purchases of $100 or more to split up into monthly payments with a fixed fee.
- Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be easily redeemed for statement credits.
- No annual fee.
- Terms Apply.
Unlimited 2% cash back at U.S. gas stations and select U.S. department stores
Verdict: Solid rewards rate on gas with $0 annual fee
If a no-annual-fee card with various spending categories is your preference, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is a great product to choose. It’s very similar to the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, though without the annual fee ($0). It offers a lower rate of 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%). 2% cash back at U.S. gas stations and at select U.S. department stores. 1% cash back on other purchases. Terms apply. Redeem your cash back for statement credits to cover your purchases.
Maximize rewards: If you’re debating on either American Express Blue Cash cards, determine which offers a greater rewards potential by simply calculating your monthly expenses against the cashback earnings.
For rates and fees of Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express, please click here.
- Great cashback earning opportunities with $0 annual fee
- Valuable welcome offer – $100 back after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. (in the form of a statement credit)
- Intro APR of 0% on purchases for 15 months (13.99%-23.99% Variable APR thereafter)
- Secondary rental car insurance
- Access to the American Express Global Assist Hotline
- Terms apply
- Only U.S. gas stations qualify for the 2% cashback bonus — not to mention, the card charges a foreign transaction fee of 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.; if you're planning on driving frequently while abroad, you might consider other cards
- 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets is capped at $6,000 in purchase per year (you only earn 1% cash back after that)
- Terms apply
Fuel Savings: $25.15 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas rewards card for rotating bonuses
Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card
Earn 3% cash back in a category of your choice, including gas
Verdict: Great option for earning gas rewards during months when you drive the most.
If you love the thought of earning bonus cash back on gas only during the months when you use the most gas, the Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card is worth a look. The card offers 3% cash back in the category of your choice, 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs and 1% cash back on all other purchases. You have the option to opt-in to a new 3% category each month.
This means, for example, you could select the gas category in time for your summer road trips and then opt in to online shopping in time for your holiday shopping spree. Since the card also offers a bonus on grocery purchases, it makes a fair grocery and gas card. One drawback: Your bonus purchases are limited to $2,500 in purchases per quarter. Still, this is a pretty generous limit compared to cards like the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, which caps your purchases at $6,000 per year.
Maximize rewards: In order to maximize your cashback rewards with this card, you'll want to pay attention to your spending habits and make sure you align your rotating categories accordingly. Note, the card is an even better deal for Preferred Rewards program members, who earn 25% to 75% more cash back on every purchase. Preferred Rewards members can earn up to 5.25% cash back on their choice category (including gas).
- 3% cash back in the category of your choice, 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- $200 cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening
- Intro APR of 0% for 15 billing cycles on purchases (13.99% - 23.99% Variable APR thereafter)
- $0 annual fee
- Preferred Rewards members get 25% to 75% more cash back on every purchase
- 3% and 2% categories limited to $2,500 in combined purchases per quarter (earn 1% cash back thereafter)
Fuel Savings: $7.73 to $66.03 annually depending on your Preferred Rewards status (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best credit card for gas and hotels
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
- See Rates & Fees. Terms Apply.
- On American Express' Secure Website
$95
15.74%-24.74% Variable
Excellent/Good
- Earn 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.
- Earn a Weekend Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
- 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, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
- Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
- Spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn Hilton Honors Diamond status through the end of the next calendar year.
- $95 annual fee.
- Terms Apply.
Earn 6 points per dollar on U.S. gas station purchases
Verdict: Excellent for earning points towards hotel stays every time you fill up your tank
The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is great for consumers interested in free hotel stays. It also happens to be a good choice for earning points on gas purchases — cardholders earn 6 points per dollar at U.S. gas stations. Hilton has more than 6,100 properties around the world, so finding a Hilton property to utilize your points likely won’t be an issue.
Maximize rewards: When you stay at Hilton hotels and book directly with Hilton, you can take advantage of your Hilton Honors Gold status (enrollment required). This Hilton Honors status level includes benefits like hotel room upgrades, hotel credits, fifth night free, bonus points on Hilton stays and more. Read our review.
For rates and fees of Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, please click here.
- Earn generous points on everyday purchases, including U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations: 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.
- You can Earn Limited Time Offer: 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.
- Earn free nights and elite status with qualified spending
- Priority Pass™ Select membership (enrollment required)
- Rental car insurance
- Foreign transaction fees: None
- Terms apply
- Hilton Honors points have a low value per point
- Only U.S. gas stations qualify for the 6X bonus — you might pick another card for purchasing gas abroad
- $95
- Terms apply
Fuel Savings: $37.32 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas rewards card for BP gas
BP Visa® Credit Card
30-day introductory offer when you open a new account and download the BPme app. That’s 25¢ off per gallon every time you fuel up with your BP Visa® Credit Card or BP Credit Card at participating bp and Amoco stations.
Verdict: The most rewarding card for BP
Those who frequently visit BP gas stations should consider applying for the BP Visa® Credit Card. Not only will you earn valuable cashback rewards on your gas purchases, but this card offers decent returns on groceries, too.
With the BP Visa® Credit Card, you'll Get 10¢ off per gallon on fuel purchases at participating bp and Amoco stations. Earn 3% cash back on grocery store purchases. Earn 1% cash back on purchases made everywhere else Visa credit cards are accepted (excluding bp and Amoco fuel purchases).
Maximize rewards: You have the ability to get automatic savings at the pump at any participating BP or Amoco station or redeem your rewards for statement credits. Read our review.
- 30-day introductory offer when you open a new account and download the BPme app. That’s 25¢ off per gallon every time you fuel up with your BP Visa® Credit Card or BP Credit Card at participating bp and Amoco stations.
- Get 10¢ off per gallon on fuel purchases at participating bp and Amoco stations. Earn 3% cash back on grocery store purchases. Earn 1% cash back on purchases made everywhere else Visa credit cards are accepted (excluding bp and Amoco fuel purchases).
- $0 annual fee
- You're limited to BP, while other gas cards can help you earn rewards at other gas stations.
Fuel Savings: $48.75 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas rewards card for Shell gas
Shell Fuel Rewards Mastercard
You can save 30 cents per gallon up to 20 gallons, on your first five Shell fuel purchases.
Verdict: Great rewards for Shell purchases
If you consistently fill up your tank at Shell gas stations, the Shell Fuel Rewards Mastercard is certainly worth considering. This card comes with a stellar sign-up bonus that allows cardholders to save 30 cents per gallon up to 20 gallons, on your first five Shell fuel purchases. The regular earning rate for the Shell Fuel Rewards Mastercard lets you save 10 cents per gallon up to 20 gallons every time you fill up at Shell locations.
Maximize rewards: You will see rebates automatically applied as a statement credit against Shell purchases made with your card in future billing cycles.
- Excellent sign-up bonus
- Earns significant rewards in multiple categories, not just gas
- Easy to redeem rebates, which are automatically applied as a statement credit
- You can only earn savings and rewards on gas purchases at Shell gas stations
Fuel Savings: $51.65 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best business gas card
Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card
Earn 3% cash back on your choice of six categories including gas.
Verdict: Great rewards on business and gas spending
If you're looking for the best gas card for small business, the Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card is an excellent choice. With this card you'll Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, 2% cash back on dining and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. You'll get 3% and 2% cash back on the first $50,000 in combined choice category/dining purchases each calendar year, 1% thereafter.
You can change your category once each month, or keep the same category. Because travel is one of the category options, we argue this card is also the best travel rewards credit card for gas.
Maximize rewards: You can earn up to 75% more cash back on every purchase if you have a business checking account with Bank of America and qualify for their highest Preferred Rewards for Business tier. That means you could earn up to 5.25% on your selected choice category, 3.5% on dining, and unlimited 1.75% cash back on all other purchases. Redeem your cash back as a deposit into your Bank of America checking or savings account, as a card statement credit or as a check mailed to you. Cash rewards don't expire.
- Excellent sign-up bonus: Get a $300 statement credit when you make at least $3,000 in net purchases within 90 days of your account opening.
- $0 annual fee
- Intro APR 0% for 9 billing cycles on purchases from account opening, then 12.24% - 22.24% variable APR
- Strong rewards rate
- Easy to redeem rewards
- Cap on earning potential
- Can only change your choice category once per month
Fuel Savings: $7.73 to $66.03 annually depending on your Preferred Rewards status (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
Best gas rewards card for bad credit
Discover it® Secured Credit Card
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.
Verdict: Decent gas rewards and a stellar annual cashback match, especially for a secured card
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is one of the best gas cards for bad credit, as well as college students without a strong credit history. This is one of the best easy approval gas credit cards — you only need a credit score of Limited/Bad/Poor to be approved, along with a refundable security deposit. Your credit line will equal your deposit amount, starting at $200.
Plus, you may be able to get your deposit back after eight months, when Discover begins automatic monthly account reviews to see if you qualify to convert to a standard, 'unsecured' card. Discover also reports your credit history to all three major credit bureaus, unlike most debit cards or prepaid cards.
Maximize rewards: One of the best features of this gas card is the Cashback Match program: 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. If you use your card frequently but responsibly, this is a great card for earning rewards while building up your credit.
- Cashback Match from Discover: 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.
- Solid rewards rate on gas
- Easy to get approved
- No traditional sign-up bonus
- Discover not widely accepted outside the U.S.
- Cap on earning rates for gas and dining
- Requires a deposit
Fuel Savings: $20.00 annually (based on a 30 mile round-trip, daily commute)
What is the benefit of having a gas card?
A gas credit card gives consumers bonus rewards (in the form of cash back or points) for their gas purchases.
A gas credit card is essential to have if you regularly visit gas stations. The best credit card for gas rewards will offer high returns on gas spending or discounts at the pump.
Who should get a gas card?
If you're someone who is constantly driving, whether it's to and from work, for daily errands or anything else, you may want to invest in a gas credit card. If you're filling up your tank once or more per week it will certainly pay off to earn rewards and/or save money at the pump.
Why get a gas card?
If you regularly fill up your tank with gasoline, it's definitely worth getting a gas card. Why not earn cash back or rewards on the frequent gas purchases you'd be making anyway? A gas card rewards you for your regular spending. Plus, oftentimes gas credit cards also come with additional perks, like no annual fee, a sign-up bonus or rewards in other spending categories as well.
Pros
Cons
The right gas credit card can save you real money at the pump. If you haven’t shopped around for one in a while, it’s a great time to consider doing so, since card issuers are ramping up rewards offers on many, many types of cards in 2021. Or if it has been a while since you checked to see what your current cards offer for gas rewards, it’s a good time to do that as well. Much has changed in the past year or so with credit card offers, but you might not have noticed if you haven’t taken the time to look.
— Matt Schulz, Chief Credit Analyst at LendingTree
How to use a gas credit card
Using a gas credit card is quite simple. Next time you visit the pump, just swipe and fill your tank.
But long before you hit the road, research which gas credit card will benefit you most.
Using a gas credit card is ideal to reach a specific goal like saving money or earning travel rewards to take a vacation.
Some of the cards above have limits on how many rewards you can earn at gas stations. If you spend a significant amount of money on gas each year, it may be best to avoid those cards.
It's also worth noting that you can sign up for a gas station rewards program to help you double-dip your savings. The best gas rewards programs include big gas brands, like BP or Shell, and will help you earn discounts on gas purchases.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best gas credit card?
There are several great gas credit cards, so the best gas credit card depends on how much you spend on gas.
Is a gas credit card worth it?
If you drive a lot for work, or if you’re a constant road-tripper, getting a gas credit card is crucial. Since gas purchases add up quickly, you'll want a card that can offer high returns for these purchases. The best gas credit card will offer you returns on other daily purchases though, such as groceries or dining.
How do gas credit cards work?
If you own a credit card that rewards you for all gas purchases, you'll earn rewards at any gas station you visit. Meanwhile, if you own a card such as the Shell Drive for Five® Card, you'll only earn rewards on Shell purchases and receive rewards either in the form of gas discounts or cash back.
Which gas station has the best rewards program?
Major gas brands like BP, Sheetz and Shell offer a free rewards program,which gives members discounts or loyalty incentives. The best gas rewards program will depend on which gas station is available closest to you or offers the cheapest gas in your area.
What gas stations take credit cards?
Major gas station brands take credit cards, including Shell, Texaco, Chevron and more.
What is the best gas credit card for bad credit?
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is the best gas credit card for poor credit, since you earn a high amount of cash back on your purchases without an annual fee, and you can use the card other places outside of gas stations. You will earn 2% cash back, up to $1,000, each quarter. Secured cards are typically easiest to get approved for if you have poor credit, making the Discover it® Secured Credit Card a good match as well.
Does Costco gas take credit cards?
Yes, Costco gas takes credit cards. However, only Visa and Mastercard.
Do gas stations take credit cards?
Yes, most gas stations take credit cards.
Is it safe to use a credit card at the gas pump?
There is a risk that your card could be skimmed by thieves when you use it at the pump. Fortunately, most credit cards come with fraud alerts and $0 fraud liability that protect you from fraudulent charges in case your card number is stolen. You can further reduce your risk by watching out for signs of skimming or even paying for your gas in the store (though your card can also be skimmed there).
Can I buy gas with just my credit card number?
There are a number of mobile apps, such as the Shell app, that will allow you to pay without a physical card.
How hard is it to get a gas credit card?
Most of the cards on this list require excellent credit. However, you can find gas cards like the Discover it® Secured Credit Card that are targeted to consumers with low credit scores.
Do gas cards help you build credit?
Many gas cards, including all the cards on this list, report to all three major credit bureaus, and so can help you build credit, provided you pay your card on time.
Do gas stations charge more for credit cards?
Some merchants may charge a processing fee for using a credit card. You should keep a close eye on your credit card statement for the terms "fee" or "surcharge."
Is there a credit card for gas only?
Yes, many major gas station chains – including Chevron, Shell and Texaco – have co-branded cards that can only be used at their gas stations (along with regular credit cards).
Should I use my credit card for gas?
As long as you pay off your bill at the end of the month, credit cards can be a secure and rewarding way to pay for gas purchases.
What is the easiest gas credit card to get approved for?
The easiest gas credit card to get approved for will most likely be a secured credit card. The Discover it® Secured Credit Card, for example, allows you to get approved with low or no credit history, though it requires a refundable security deposit when you apply.
Can I get a gas card with no credit?
Yes, you can get a gas card with no credit. We consider the Discover it® Secured Credit Card to be the best gas credit card for no credit.
What is the best gas card to improve credit?
The best gas card to improve credit will be a card with no annual fee, one that's easy to be approved for and doesn’t charge huge fees. When used responsibly, this type of card can be majorly beneficial for your credit. The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is the best gas credit card for fair credit and can help to improve your credit, too.
Who has the best gas card?
Though there are several great gas credit card deals available, we think the PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card is one of the best fuel cards out there. It offers high rewards rates for gas spending, doesn’t restrict you to purchasing fuel from a single gas station brand and includes rewards in other spending categories — plus, it comes with some other useful perks, too.
What credit card has the best gas rewards?
We find the PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card to be the best credit card for gas purchases because it has the best gas rewards for a flexible rewards card: Earn 2% on grocery store purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants and 4% on gas station purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually. 1% cash back on purchases everywhere, every time.
Does Costco sell gas cards?
Yes, Costco sells a Costco-branded gas card, the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi. You will need a Costco card to get gas.
What is the best credit card for gas rewards?
We think the PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card is the best credit card for gas rewards. It offers 4% cash back on gas station purchases (in-store and at the pump) and grants high rewards in other spending categories, too. This card could even be considered the best gas credit card for RV travel, because the more you spend filling up your tank, the more you're rewarded.
Does ARCO have a gas credit card?
Yes, ARCO has two branded gas credit cards available. The ARCO credit cards are the ARCO Business Solutions Fuel Card and the ARCO Business Solutions Mastercard®.
Does Marathon have a gas card?
Yes. Marathon has two branded gas cards available, the Marathon Universal Card and Marathon Fleet Card.
Does Speedway have gas cards?
Yes, Speedway has a number of gas cards available. Speedway credit cards include the Speedy Rewards® Mastercard® and Speedway SuperFleet Mastercard®.
Recap of best gas credit cards of 2021
- Best all around gas rewards card: PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card
- Best for Costco shoppers: Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
- Best for gas and groceries: Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Best for cash back without categories: Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer
- Best for no annual fee: Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
- Best for rotating bonuses: Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card
- Best for gas and hotels: Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
- Best for BP gas: BP Visa® Credit Card
- Best for Shell gas: Shell Fuel Rewards Mastercard
- Best business gas card: Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card
- Best gas card for bad credit: Discover it® Secured Credit Card
Methodology
We are constantly reviewing hundreds of credit cards across both ValuePenguin and major issuer platforms in order to compile a list of the best gas credit cards available in 2021. Our recommendations are based on a number of factors — including the rewards value in gas and additional spending categories, gas savings, cost of ownership and value of benefits such as branded incentives, purchase protections, sign-up bonuses and more. Our choices are not influenced by our advertisers. Learn more on how we calculate rewards.
Fuel Savings:
Our rates have been calculated based on the following assumptions:
- Average miles per gallon: 18
- Daily Miles Commuted (to and from): 30
- Annual Days in Office: 260
- Total Annual Miles Commuted: 7,800
- Total Annual Gallons Needed: 433.33
- Total Annual Fuel Cost for Commuting: $1,257.72
For rates and fees of Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, please click here.
For rates and fees of Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express, please click here.
For rates and fees of Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, please click here.
The information related to PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card, Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card, BP Visa® Credit Card, Speedy Rewards® Mastercard®, Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card, Discover it® Secured Credit Card, ARCO Business Solutions Mastercard®, ARCO Business Solutions Fuel Card, Marathon Fleet Card, Speedy Rewards® Mastercard®, Speedway SuperFleet Mastercard®, Marathon Universal Card and Shell Fuel Rewards Mastercard 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).