5.0
BestGuide's Rating
- Earn 1.5% back on all purchases
- 0% intro APR for 15 months
- Rewards never expire
4.9
BestGuide's Rating
- 75,000-mile bonus after spending threshold
- 2x miles on all purchases
- Flexible travel redemptions (any airline)
4.8
BestGuide's Rating
- Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
- 0% intro APR 12 months
- $0 annual fee
4.7
BestGuide's Rating
- 0% intro APR on purchases + transfers
- Cashback Match 1st year (double rewards)
- No annual fee
4.6
BestGuide's Rating
- 2% cash back - Redeem as cash or points
- 0% intro APR balance transfers
- Works well for debt consolidation
Features and Benefits
- Best overall: Chase Freedom Unlimited »
- Best for travel rewards: Capital One Venture X Rewards »
- Best for cash back: Citi Double Cash® Card »
- Best for everyday spending: Wells Fargo Active Cash® »
- Best for dining & entertainment: Discover it® Cash Back »
- Best for no annual fee: Wells Fargo Active Cash® »
- Best for balance transfers: Chase Freedom Unlimited »
- Best for 0% intro APR: Citi Double Cash® Card »
- Best for premium perks: Chase Freedom Unlimited »
Frequently Asked Questions
Question:
How do I choose the right card for me?
Answer:
Every card rewards different behaviors. Some cards favor travel purchases, others maximize flat-rate cash back. The ideal pick depends on your spending mix (groceries, gas, travel, bills) and whether you prefer simplicity or bonus categories. Also weigh fees, intro offers, and benefits like insurance or lounge access. Use our comparison grid to see which cards align best with your habits and goals.
Ask an expert: Chase Freedom Unlimited »
Question:
Do cards with annual fees offer better value?
Answer:
Often yes, but only if you use the perks. Cards with annual fees tend to include elevated rewards, travel credits, lounge access, or statement credits that offset the cost. If you spend heavily in bonus categories or travel a lot, a fee card might yield net gain. If your usage is modest, a no-fee card might be more suitable. Always run the math.
Ask an expert: Capital One Venture X Rewards »
Question:
How long does approval take?
Answer:
Many issuers respond instantly or within minutes. In some cases, they’ll request documentation (income, identity proof), which may take a few days. Rarely, they may route your application to manual review, adding a week or more. Once approved, you can often get immediate card access via digital wallet before the physical card arrives.
Ask an expert: Citi Double Cash® Card »
Question:
Do rewards or cash back ever expire?
Answer:
With many major cards, rewards do not expire as long as the account remains open and in good standing. Some issuers also allow redemption in any increment (no minimum). But some programs impose expiration or forfeiture if the account becomes inactive. Always confirm terms for each card, especially when comparing across issuers.
Ask an expert: Discover it® Cash Back »
Question:
Can I transfer a balance from another card?
Answer:
Many rewards cards offer introductory 0% APR balance transfer periods. You can move existing debt to a new card and pay it off without interest during that window. But there is often a balance transfer fee (e.g., 3–5%), and transfers must be completed by the deadline. Always check the terms before making the move.
Ask an expert: Wells Fargo Active Cash® »
Question:
How does intro 0% APR work?
Answer:
Introductory 0% APR offers waive interest on purchases, balance transfers, or both for a set period (e.g. 12–18 months). During that time, you pay only principal. After it ends, the regular variable APR kicks in on remaining balance. If you pay off the balance before the intro ends, you avoid interest altogether. Always note the expiration date.
Ask an expert: Chase Freedom Unlimited »
Our Top Picks
BEST OVERALL
Chase Freedom Unlimited
BOTTOM LINE
Earn 1.5% back on all purchases
BEST VALUE
Capital One Venture X Rewards
BOTTOM LINE
75,000-mile bonus after spending threshold
TOP PICK
Wells Fargo Active Cash®
BOTTOM LINE
Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases