When you buy something using?links found on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. This content?is reviewed &?supervised by?The?Los Angeles Times Commerce Team.

Best Rewards Credit Cards of 2024

A rewards credit card lets you earn rewards for each dollar you spend. Some rewards cards offer a flat rate of points, miles, or?cash back on everything?you buy, whereas others offer more points in specific categories people shop in. In some cases, bonus rewards can be capped based on a specific amount of spending. In other cases, the rewards you can earn are unlimited.

Keep reading to learn more about rewards cards and which ones we recommend.

Hide product summary Show product summary

Our top picks for the best rewards credit cards

Advertiser Disclosure

Best for Grocery & Gas Rewards

Blue Cash Preferred? Card from American Express

LEARN MORE
Up to 6% Reward Rate

Earn 6% cash back on up to $6,000 spent at U.S. supermarkets each year (then 1% back), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming services, 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit, and 1% cash back on other eligible purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.

Show More Show Less
Annual Fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95
Welcome Offer
$250
Regular APR
18.74% to 29.74% variable
Recommended Credit
Good/Excellent (690 - 850)
Why we like it
For families and frequent shoppers, The Blue Cash Preferred? Card from American Express is an excellent option. With 6% cash back on up to $6,000 spent at U.S. supermarkets each year (then 1% back), you can be rewarded well for your weekly grocery runs. It also has great rewards on select streaming services, purchases at U.S. gas stations, and transit spending.
Show More Show Less
Card Details

More Card Info

  • 0% Intro APR for purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 months, then 18.74% to 29.74% variable applies.
  • Cash Back is received as Reward Dollars which can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
  • Get $7/month back in the form of a statement credit when you spend $9.99 or more per month on an eligible Disney Bundle subscription (Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+). Subject to auto-renewal. Only valid in the U.S. Enrollment required.
  • Terms Apply.
Pros
  • Excellent rewards on spending at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, transit and more
  • 0% APR on purchases for a limited time
  • Don’t need to activate categories
Cons
  • Rewards can only be redeemed for a statement credit or at Amazon.com
  • Charges foreign transaction fees
  • Has an annual fee
Bottom Line

Although this card has an annual fee, most families will be able to easily get enough value out of the everyday categories to make it worth it.

Best for Flexible Cash Back Rewards

Chase Freedom Unlimited?

LEARN MORE
Up to 6.5% Reward Rate

Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel?, 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel?, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
Up to $300 cash back
Regular APR
19.99%-28.74% variable
Recommended Credit
Good/Excellent (690 - 850)
Why we like it
The Chase Freedom Unlimited? card is a great option for those looking for flexible, easy-to-earn rewards. It offers a flat cash-back rate on all purchases and generous cash-back in other useful categories, so you can earn without even having to think about it. To make it even better, it has a spectacular welcome offer and doesn’t charge an annual fee. Freedom Unlimited is often advertised as a cash-back card, but it actually offers much more. The rewards you earn with this card are part of the Chase Ultimate Rewards program, so they’re highly flexible and easy to redeem. Despite the abundance of credit cards available in the market, the Chase Freedom Unlimited? stands out as one of the best options out there.

Best for Flat-rate Travel Rewards

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

LEARN MORE
Up to 5X Reward Rate

Earn 5X miles per dollar on hotel stays, vacation rentals or rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 2X miles on all other purchases.

Show More Show Less
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
75,000 miles
Regular APR
19.99% to 29.74% variable
Recommended Credit
Good/Excellent (690 - 850)
Why we like it
For travelers who want to minimize the hassle of earning rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card delivers. It offers a straightforward reward rate of 2X miles on all purchases, along with an upgraded rate on eligible travel purchases, all for a low annual fee.
Show More Show Less
Card Details

More Card Info

  • Miles don’t expire for the lifetime of the account plus there’s no limit to how many you can earn
  • Up to a $120 credit to use toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck?
  • Use miles for reimbursement on any travel purchase—or use them to book a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enhance every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a range of cardholder benefits, such as $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Transfer your miles to over 15 travel loyalty programs of your choice
Pros
  • Travel insurance protections incuded
  • Earn flexible rewards for travel
  • Reasonable $95 annual fee
Cons
  • Requires good or excellent credit
  • No everyday spending bonus categories
  • High APR
Bottom Line

The massive sign-up offer and generous, flexible rewards make this card a great option for casual travelers.

Best for Rewards on Everyday Spending

Blue Cash Everyday? Card from American Express

LEARN MORE
Up to 3% Reward Rate

Earn 3% cash back on up to $6,000/year spent at U.S. supermarkets (then 1%), 3% cash back on up to $6,000/year at U.S. gas stations (then 1%), 3% cash back on up to $6,000/year on U.S. online retail purchases (then 1%), and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.

Show More Show Less
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$200
Regular APR
18.74% to 29.74% variable
Recommended Credit
Good/Excellent (690 - 850)
Why we like it
We like the Blue Cash Everyday? Card from American Express for its generous reward structure for spending in useful, everyday categories. It also has no annual fee, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Show More Show Less
Card Details

More Card Info

  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months after opening the account, then 18.74% to 29.74% variable APR applies.
  • Cash back is received as Reward Dollars which can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
  • Get $7/month back in the form of a statement credit when you spend $9.99 or more per month on an eligible Disney Bundle subscription (Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+). Subject to auto-renewal. Enrollment required.
  • Receive up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription. Subject to auto-renewal. Enrollment required.
  • Terms Apply.
Pros
  • No annual fee
  • Various partner benefits
  • Generous rewards at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations & online shopping
Cons
  • Rewards cap on spending at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and online retail purchases
  • 2.7% foreign transaction fee
  • Low rewards rate outside of bonus categories
Bottom Line

For a no-annual-fee option, the reward rate on this card is pretty solid, but for heavy spenders, other cards may offer more value.

Best for Premium Amex Travel Rewards

The Platinum Card? from American Express

LEARN MORE
Up to 5X Reward Rate

Earn 5X Membership Rewards? points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year), 5X points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel, and 1X points on other eligible purchases.

Show More Show Less
Annual Fee
$695
Welcome Offer
80,000 points
Regular APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Recommended Credit
Good/Excellent (690 - 850)
Why we like it
The American Express Platinum card, though it comes with a $695 annual fee, provides an array of valuable travel benefits. With complimentary airport lounge access, over $1,000 worth of statement credits, and so much more, this card can help elevate your travel experience to the next level.
Show More Show Less
Card Details

More Card Info

  • $200 Hotel Credit: Receive up to $200 back in statement credits each year for prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts? or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when paying with your Platinum Card?. The Hotel Collection requires a two-night minimum stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Receive up to $20 back in statement credits every month when you make eligible purchases with your Platinum Card?. This offer applies to Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • Escape the hectic nature of the airport with the American Express Global Lounge Collection?. With complimentary access to over 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries, you can enjoy more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer. As of 03/2023.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Maximize savings on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership using your Platinum Card? and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one eligible airline and then get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when you are charged incidental fees by the airline to your Platinum Card?.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Receive Uber VIP status and get up to $200 annually ($15 per month, plus a $20 bonus in December) in Uber Cash on Rides or Eats orders in the U.S. Uber Cash and VIP status are only available to Basic Card Members. To receive this benefit you must have downloaded the latest version of the Uber App and your eligible Card must be a method of payment on your Uber account. This benefit may only be used in the United States. Terms apply.
  • $199 CLEAR? Plus Credit: Get to your gate faster at over 50 airports nationwide with CLEAR? Plus and receive up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership when you use your card. Subject to auto-renewal. CLEARLanes are available at over 100 airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
  • Enjoy either a $120 statement credit for a Global Entry application fee every 4 years or a statement credit of up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck? application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck? official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card?. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also get access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Use your Platinum Card? to receive up to $100 in statement credits for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com annually (Up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually). Enrollment is required.
  • Add your Platinum Card? to your Resy profile and enjoy access to exclusive reservations and unique dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy
  • Terms Apply.
Pros
  • Excellent rewards rate for travel purchases
  • Qualify for $1,500+ in statement credits
  • Very generous welcome offer
Cons
  • High annual fee of $695
  • Many statement credit offers are too specific and hard to use
  • Non-travel-perks aren’t spectacular
Bottom Line

This is quite a spectacular card with incredibly valuable benefits, but the annual fee is objectively very high.

Best Premium Capital One Travel Rewards

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

LEARN MORE
Up to 10X Reward Rate

Earn 10X miles on hotel and rental car purchases made through Capital One Travel, 5X miles on airfare and vacation rentals purchased through the portal, and 2X miles per dollar spent on all other purchases.

Show More Show Less
Annual Fee
$395
Welcome Offer
75,000 miles
Regular APR
19.99% to 29.74% variable
Recommended Credit
Excellent (740 - 850)
Why we like it
The Capital One Venture X is an excellent choice for frequent travelers. With perks like airport lounge access, annual travel credits, and a flexible rewards program, it has the potential to be tremendously valuable for those who like exploring the world.
Show More Show Less
Card Details

More Card Info

  • Get a $300 annual credit for booking trips through Capital One Travel
  • Enjoy 10,000 bonus miles every year, which is equivalent to $100 towards travel, starting on your first anniversary
  • Unlimited complimentary access to over 1,300 lounges, including Capital One lounges and the partner lounge network, for you and two guests
  • Use Venture X miles to cover the cost of travel expenses, such as flights, hotels and rental cars; you can even transfer miles to over 15 travel loyalty programs of your choice
  • Enhance every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collection with a range of cardholder benefits, such as experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck?
Pros
  • Miles can be redeemed for travel purchases, transfers to international airlines, and more
  • Can qualify for hundreds of dollars in credits each year
  • Huge welcome offer
Cons
  • $395 annual fee
  • Large spending requirement to earn the welcome bonus
  • Excellent credit required
Bottom Line

With a lower annual fee than some premium cards and extremely valuable benefits, this card can easily be worth the annual fee for the frequent traveler.

Best for Dining and Entertainment Rewards

Limited Time Offer

Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

LEARN MORE
Up to 8% Reward Rate

Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart? and Target?), plus 1% back on all other purchases. Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases when you book through the Capital One Entertainment portal. Earn 5% back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

Show More Show Less
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
LTO: $250
Regular APR
19.74% to 29.74% variable
Recommended Credit
Good/Excellent (690 - 850)
Why we like it
The Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card is one of the best cards for earning rewards in everyday categories like dining, entertainment, streaming services, and grocery stores.
Show More Show Less
Card Details

More Card Info

  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months (then 19.74% - 29.74% variable APR).
  • Balance transfer fee of 3% for the first 15 months; 4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you at any other time
  • There are no rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards
  • Cash back won’t expire for the life of the account
  • No limit to how much cash-back you can earn
  • No foreign transaction fees
Pros
  • No rotating categories that you need to sign up for
  • No spending cap
  • No annual fee
Cons
  • High APR
  • Good or excellent credit recommended
  • Low sign-up bonus
Bottom Line

The cash-back categories and welcome bonus are pretty solid, especially for a card without an annual fee.

Best for Hilton Rewards

Hilton Honors American Express Card

LEARN MORE
Up to 7X Reward Rate

Earn 7X Hilton Honors Points on eligible Hilton purchases, 5X points on eligible U.S. restaurant, U.S. supermarket, and U.S. gas station purchases, and 3X on all other eligible purchases.

Show More Show Less
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
100,000 Points
Regular APR
20.49% to 29.49% variable
Recommended Credit
Good/Excellent (690 - 850)
Why we like it
For travelers who semi-frequently stay at Hilton hotels, the Hilton Honors American Express Card offers solid Hilton rewards for no annual fee.
Show More Show Less
Card Details

More Card Info

  • With your Hilton Honors American Express Card, you can benefit from complimentary Hilton Honors? Silver status. Plus, if you spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors? Gold status through the end of the next calendar year.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees, so you can use your card freely while abroad.
  • Terms Apply.
Pros
  • No annual fee
  • Automatic Hilton Silver status
  • 20% bonus points on eligible stays
Cons
  • Low point redemption value
  • Need good or excellent credit to qualify
  • Fewer perks than some travel cards
Bottom Line

If you’re opposed to paying an annual fee for a hotel card, this one offers decent rewards for no yearly charge. It’s pretty lackluster on other benefits, though.

Best for Premium Chase Travel Rewards

Chase Sapphire Reserve?

LEARN MORE
Up to 10X Reward Rate

Earn 10X points on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Travel? immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually, 10X points on Chase Dining purchases, 5X points on flights booked through Chase Travel, 3X points on non-Chase travel and dining, and 1X points on all non-bonus spending.

Annual Fee
$550
Welcome Offer
60,000 points
Regular APR
21.99% to 28.99% variable
Recommended Credit
Excellent (740 - 850)
Why we like it
The Chase Sapphire Reserve stands as a premium credit card, delivering an exceptional array of benefits for frequent travelers. It offers an impressive reward rate on travel, with up to 10X points on eligible purchases (Note: You won’t start earning points until the $300 annual travel statement credit is fully spent. The first $300 spent on travel each year will automatically go towards the statement credit). It also boasts a $300 yearly travel credit that can help justify the bulk of the annual fee. Outside of that, cardholders can take advantage of complimentary airport lounge access, great travel insurance perks, valuable partner benefits, and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck? fee credit. If you’re looking for a card with a huge travel rewards rate and generous travel perks, and you don’t mind paying a substantial annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card may fit the bill.

Best for Flat-Rate Cash Back

Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card

Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card
4.3
2% Reward Rate

Earn unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases

Show More Show Less
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$200
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable
Recommended Credit
Good/Excellent (690 - 850)
Why we like it
The Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card offers high, unlimited, flat-rate cash-back rewards on all purchases, meaning there are no confusing categories to keep track of. It also comes with a slew of other benefits to sweeten the deal. Note: All information for the Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card has been collected independently by?LA Times Compare. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Show More Show Less
Card Details

More Card Info

  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from account opening, then a variable APR of 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99%.
  • No bonus categories to track, activate, or remember
  • Cash rewards earned on your card don’t expire as long as your account remains open
  • Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations, and more with complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature? Concierge service.
  • Benefit from up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
Pros
  • Unlimited 2% back on all purchases
  • Intro APR offer
  • No annual fee
Cons
  • No bonus categories
  • Smaller welcome offer than some cards
  • Charges 3% in foreign transaction fees
Bottom Line

The lack of an annual fee coupled with high flat-rate rewards makes this card a valuable asset to any wallet.

Best for Delta Airlines Rewards

Delta SkyMiles? Gold American Express Card

LEARN MORE
Up to 2X Reward Rate

Earn 2X miles on restaurant purchases (plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.), 2X miles at U.S. supermarkets and on Delta purchases, and 1X miles on all other eligible purchases.

Show More Show Less
Annual Fee
$0 intro annual fee the first year, then $150
Welcome Offer
50,000 miles
Regular APR
20.49% to 29.49% variable
Recommended Credit
Good/Excellent (690 - 850)
Why we like it
If you make a habit of flying with Delta Airlines, the Delta Skymiles Gold credit card can reward you handsomely for your travels.
Show More Show Less
Card Details

More Card Info

  • Delta SkyMiles? Gold American Express Card Members can enjoy a 15% discount when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. This discount does not apply to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • After spending $10,000 in purchases within a calendar year, you can receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit for future travel.
  • As a Card Member, your first checked bag is free on Delta flights, saving up to $70 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four, that’s a potential savings of up to $280 per round-trip flight.
  • Benefit from Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights, allowing you to board early, stow your carry-on bag, and settle in sooner.
  • Delta SkyMiles? Gold American Express Card Members can earn up to a $100 statement credit back each year on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com.
  • For every 5,000 miles you redeem with Pay With Miles when you book on delta.com, take up to $50 off the cost of your flight.
  • Save 20% on eligible Delta in-flight purchases of food and beverages. Savings are received in the form of a statement credit.
  • Swipe your card freely overseas with no Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Enroll in Send & Split? to send money and split your Card purchases with any Venmo or PayPal user directly from the Amex App.
  • You can learn if you’re approved for this card without any impact on your credit score. If you are approved and choose to accept, your credit score may be affected.
  • Terms Apply.
Pros
  • Ability to earn a Delta Flight Credit
  • Generous welcome offer
  • Free checked bag
Cons
  • Comparatively high annual fee after the first year
  • Requires good to excellent credit
  • No Sky Club access
Bottom Line

The perks this card delivers can easily make up for the annual fee but may not be worth it if you aren’t a Delta enthusiast.

Comparing the best rewards credit cards

Advertiser Disclosure
Card name
Best for
Reward rate
Annual fee
Welcome offer
Best for Flexible Travel Rewards
1X-5X points
$95
Ending Soon! 60,000 points + $300 travel credit
Best for Grocery & Gas Rewards
1%-6% cash back
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95
$250
Best for Flexible Cash Back Rewards
1.5%-6.5% cash back
$0
Up to $300 cash back
Best for Flat-rate Travel Rewards
2X-5X miles
$95
75,000 miles
Best Premium Capital One Travel Rewards
2X-10X miles
$395
75,000 miles
Best for Dining and Entertainment Rewards
1%-8% cash back
$0
LTO: $250
Best for Premium Chase Travel Rewards
1X-10X points
$550
60,000 points
Best for Flat-Rate Cash Back
2% cash back
$0
$200
Best for Delta Airlines Rewards
1X-2X miles
$0 intro annual fee the first year, then $150
50,000 miles

Best rewards credit cards of 2024: Editorial reviews

Chase Sapphire Preferred? Card

[ jump to details ]

The Chase Sapphire Preferred? Card earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points— a generous, yet flexible program that allows you to earn and redeem rewards in many ways. And if you choose to redeem your rewards toward travel, they’re worth 25% more (1.25 cents per point vs. the usual 1 cent per point). We think its $95 annual fee is a great deal when you take into account these rewards, its additional travel benefits, and its huge welcome offer.

Blue Cash Preferred? Card from American Express

[ jump to details ]

If you spend a significant amount on groceries every year, the Blue Cash Preferred? Card from American Express can reward you well for your purchases. With 6% cash back on purchases made at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%), an intro APR offer, and no annual fee for the first year (then $95/year), this card is an all-around spectacular option.

Chase Freedom Unlimited?

[ jump to details ]

The Chase Freedom Unlimited? is marketed as a cash-back card but it actually earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Those points are redeemable for cash back, travel, etc., and if you have a card that’s already a part of the program, you can pool your points for even more value. The reward rate of this card is also solid, with up to 5% back in various categories and a fallback rate of 1.5%. Plus, it has no annual fee and a very generous (albeit unique) welcome offer.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

[ jump to details ]

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is the perfect mix of spectacular travel rewards and a comparatively low annual fee. This card allows you to earn 2X miles per dollar on every purchase and 5X miles on eligible Capital One Travel purchases, so you can earn rewards on everything from flights to a new wardrobe. On top of that, this card also has a high welcome bonus and some excellent travel benefits, making it easy to justify the $95 annual fee.

Blue Cash Everyday? Card from American Express

[ jump to details ]

The Blue Cash Everyday? Card from American Express is a pretty solid option for rewards on everyday purchases. Its rewards rate is quite nice, with 3% back on up to $6,000 in everyday categories. Then it becomes a bit lackluster; after meeting the spending cap, the reward rate drops to 1%. If you spend a ton on groceries, the Blue Cash Preferred? Card from American Express may hold more value, but the lack of an annual fee on this card still puts it pretty high on our list.

The Platinum Card? from American Express

[ jump to details ]

Rewards, rewards, rewards. Namely, statement credits. The Platinum Card? from American Express comes with almost $2,000 worth of statement credits, a high earning potential on eligible travel purchases, airport lounge access, and more. Few cards come loaded with just as many rewards as this one, but it might take some planning on your part to make sure you can utilize enough of them to offset the $695 annual fee.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

[ jump to details ]

Don’t discount the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card just because of its almost $400 price tag. Comparatively, that’s a lower annual fee than many premium travel cards, and it still has a long list of valuable benefits. Namely, cardholders get complimentary Capital One airport lounge access, $300 worth of annual travel credits, a Priority Pass Select membership, a fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, and more, in addition to a high rewards-earning potential on eligible travel purchases.

Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

[ jump to details ]

In the realm of rewards credit cards, the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card is a very solid option, especially considering its lack of an annual fee. If you spend a lot of money on dining, entertainment, streaming services, and even grocery stores, you can earn without even thinking about it, as this card has a higher-than-average earning rate in those categories.

Hilton Honors American Express Card

[ jump to details ]

Most hotel credit cards charge lofty annual fees, so the Hilton Honors American Express Card stands out. It comes with a generous welcome offer, high points-earning capability, complimentary Hilton Honors Silver status, and more; a great set of perks for no yearly cost.

Chase Sapphire Reserve?

[ jump to details ]

When it comes to travel rewards, there’s a reason so many people love the Chase Sapphire Reserve? card. This card comes loaded with high-end perks and charges a hefty annual fee, but it can be easy to justify that fee if you consider the benefits this card allows you to access. Consider the $300 annual travel credit alone, and the fee is effectively dropped to $250. Consider its other perks on top of that, and it could be a great deal for the frequent traveler. If you don’t travel a ton, though, it may be difficult to fully utilize what this card has to offer.

Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card

[ jump to details ]

If cash-back is your favorite type of reward, paying an annual fee doesn’t sound worth it, and you don’t want to track any spending categories, the Wells Fargo Active Cash is perfect for you. This card has the simplest reward structure possible: 2% back on everything. No categories— just the sweet, sweet knowledge that you’re earning 2% back with everything you buy. It doesn’t offer a ton beyond that, but sometimes that’s okay.

Note: All information for the Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card has been collected independently by?LA Times Compare. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Delta SkyMiles? Gold American Express Card

[ jump to details ]

For the casual Delta flyer, the Delta SkyMiles? Gold American Express Card is a solid option. With 2X miles on Delta flights and in everyday categories, it’s easy to earn rewards on this card. Additionally, it provides priority boarding and a free checked bag for you and up to 8 other traveling companions. For a card with a low $150 annual fee after the first year, it’s chock-full of high-value perks.

How do rewards credit cards work?

After making an eligible purchase on a rewards credit card, you’ll receive a portion back in cash, points, or miles. These rewards will likely be redeemable through your account on the credit card issuer’s website or mobile app.

For example, let’s say you make a $200 purchase on an eligible hotel stay using the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card. As this card earns 5X miles on hotel stays booked through Capital One Travel, you’ll receive 1,000 miles (worth approximately $14).

Types of rewards credit cards

There are several types of reward cards to be aware of, but the two main types are travel and cash back:

Cash-back cards

Cash back credit cards let consumers earn a specific percentage of cash back on their spending, often between 1% and 6%.

Travel credit cards

Pros and cons of rewards credit cards

Pros
  • Numerous rewards cards have?no annual fee.
  • Rewards credit cards are available for all levels of credit history.
  • Many cards come with high-value points or miles.
  • Reward cards can come with initial bonuses.
Cons
  • High regular APRs are common.
  • Some reward programs have minimum redemption amounts.
  • Rewards can often expire.

Reasons to get a rewards credit card

Should you get a rewards card? That depends, but if the following statements sound like you, you may want to consider it:

These are just some reasons to pick up a rewards credit card, but there are plenty of others. Most people can benefit from a rewards credit card, as even 1% back on purchases can add up quickly.

Reasons to?not?get a rewards credit card

Although most people can benefit from a rewards credit card, they aren’t right for everyone.

Earning credit card rewards: What to watch out for

Here are some of the potential problems to be aware of before you pick up a new rewards card:

How to choose a rewards credit card

Choosing a rewards card can be tricky, but these factors can help narrow your choices.

Here are the main rewards card factors you should think about before you decide:

Type of rewards

Whether you want to earn cash back or flexible points like Chase Ultimate Rewards, you need to decide on this factor ahead of time. After all, the type of rewards you want the most can help you narrow down card options considerably.

Your spending habits

Also look for credit cards that offer bonus categories that make sense with your spending, whether you spend a lot at U.S. supermarkets or you splurge on travel purchases. Finally, look for cards that offer a generous earning rate on other purchases you make with your card.

?? See our picks: Best credit cards for groceries and best credit cards for dining

Sign-up bonuses

Rewards credit cards typically offer generous welcome offers, allowing you to earn a pile of points, miles, or cash-back. To earn these bonuses, you need to spend a set amount within a short period. Make sure this bonus is achievable; don’t overspend just to earn it.

?? See our picks: Best credit card welcome offers

Intro 0% APR periods

If you want a 0% interest period on purchases,?balance transfers, or both for a limited time, this factor can also help you narrow down your choices.

?? See our picks: Best 0% APR credit cards

Travel perks

If you spend a lot on travel purchases or traverse the globe fairly often, look for cards that offer airport lounge access, travel statement credits, and affordable travel insurance.

?? See our picks: Best travel credit cards

Consumer protections

If consumer protections are important to you, look for cards that offer purchase protection against damage or theft and extended warranties on items that come with a manufacturer’s warranty.

Fees

Finally, make sure you’re only paying an annual fee if you’re getting something in return. Also, watch out for transaction fees that can eat away at your rewards haul.

?? See our picks: Best no-annual-fee rewards credit cards and best cards with no foreign transaction fees

Making the most of your credit card rewards

After choosing your perfect rewards credit card, it’s time to ensure you maximize those rewards.

? ? ? ? ?

For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Everyday? Card from American Express, please visit this page.

For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred? Card from American Express, please visit this page.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card? from American Express, please visit this page.

For rates and fees of the Hilton Honors American Express Card, please visit this page.

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles? Gold American Express Card, please visit this page.

Best rewards credit cards FAQ

Are cash back credit cards or travel rewards cards better?

The best credit card varies from person to person. However, cash back credit cards are typically best for people who want to earn points they can redeem for statement credits, gift cards, or a check. Meanwhile, travel credit cards are geared to people who want to redeem their points for travel-related redemptions such as airfare, hotel stays, or upgrades.

Can I have more than one rewards card?

You can have more than one rewards credit card provided you have the income and credit score to qualify.

Which credit card has the best rewards program?

The right credit card rewards program depends on your goals. However, we believe flexible programs like Capital One Miles and Chase Ultimate Rewards are best due to their overall flexibility.

Are credit card rewards taxable?

Credit card rewards are considered a rebate on your spending, so they’re not counted as taxable income.

Are store rewards cards good?

Store rewards cards can be “good” since they let you earn points and score special discounts. However, store cards can be limiting since you can only use them in specific stores or families of stores. By contrast, credit cards from networks like Visa and Mastercard can be used at millions of retailers, restaurants, and vendors around the world.

Will I qualify for a rewards credit card?

Most rewards credit cards require good or excellent credit to qualify, but there are options for those with poor credit, no credit history, and students. The perks may not be as spectacular as other rewards cards, but they still offer you something, especially while you are building or rebuilding your credit.

Do they make rewards cards for business use?

Yes! Capital One Spark Miles for Business is our pick for travel rewards and the American Express? Business Gold Card has 4x rewards on the first $150,000 spent! You can read more about these cards and the other business cards we recommend on the Best Business Credit Cards page.

About the Author

Holly D. Johnson
Holly D. Johnson Personal Finance

Holly D. Johnson is an award-winning personal finance writer who covers topics like insurance, investing, credit and family finance. As a leading voice in the travel and loyalty space, Johnson has traveled with her family to more than 50 countries over the last decade.

The author has also written extensively on the power of household budgeting, and she even co-authored a book on the topic. Zero Down Your Debt: Reclaim Your Income and Build a Life You’ll Love was originally published in 2017, and it teaches families how to use zero-sum budgeting to reach their financial goals. She is also the co-owner and founder of the family finance and travel website, ClubThrifty.com.

Johnson’s 10+ years of writing have focused on helping families make important financial decisions at each stage of their lives. The author also applies the financial principles she teaches to her own life, and she is currently on track to retire in her late 40’s with her partner. She currently lives in Central Indiana with her husband and children, and she is a regular contributor for Bankrate, CNN, Forbes, U.S. News and World Report Travel and many other notable publications.

* Opinions expressed here are those of LA Times Compare and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser or entities included within this content. See our editorial policy for more details.

All products or services are presented in this content without warranty. The information, including card details such as rates and fees, is accurate at the time of publication. Please visit each bank's website directly for the most current information.

BACK TO TOP
seductrice.net
universo-virtual.com
buytrendz.net
thisforall.net
benchpressgains.com
qthzb.com
mindhunter9.com
dwjqp1.com
secure-signup.net
ahaayy.com
tressesindia.com
puresybian.com
krpano-chs.com
cre8workshop.com
hdkino.org
peixun021.com
qz786.com
utahperformingartscenter.org
worldqrmconference.com
shangyuwh.com
eejssdfsdfdfjsd.com
playminecraftfreeonline.com
trekvietnamtour.com
your-business-articles.com
essaywritingservice10.com
hindusamaaj.com
joggingvideo.com
wandercoups.com
wormblaster.net
tongchengchuyange0004.com
internetknowing.com
breachurch.com
peachesnginburlesque.com
dataarchitectoo.com
clientfunnelformula.com
30pps.com
cherylroll.com
ks2252.com
prowp.net
webmanicura.com
sofietsshotel.com
facetorch.com
nylawyerreview.com
apapromotions.com
shareparelli.com
goeaglepointe.com
thegreenmanpubphuket.com
karotorossian.com
publicsensor.com
taiwandefence.com
epcsur.com
mfhoudan.com
southstills.com
tvtv98.com
thewellington-hotel.com
bccaipiao.com
colectoresindustrialesgs.com
shenanddcg.com
capriartfilmfestival.com
replicabreitlingsale.com
thaiamarinnewtoncorner.com
gkmcww.com
mbnkbj.com
andrewbrennandesign.com
cod54.com
luobinzhang.com
faithfirst.net
zjyc28.com
tongchengjinyeyouyue0004.com
nhuan6.com
kftz5k.com
oldgardensflowers.com
lightupthefloor.com
bahamamamas-stjohns.com
ly2818.com
905onthebay.com
fonemenu.com
notanothermovie.com
ukrainehighclassescort.com
meincmagazine.com
av-5858.com
yallerdawg.com
donkeythemovie.com
corporatehospitalitygroup.com
boboyy88.com
miteinander-lernen.com
dannayconsulting.com
officialtomsshoesoutletstore.com
forsale-amoxil-amoxicillin.net
generictadalafil-canada.net
guitarlessonseastlondon.com
lesliesrestaurants.com
mattyno9.com
nri-homeloans.com
rtgvisas-qatar.com
salbutamolventolinonline.net
sportsinjuries.info
wedsna.com
rgkntk.com
bkkmarketplace.com
zxqcwx.com
breakupprogram.com
boxcardc.com
unblockyoutubeindonesia.com
fabulousbookmark.com
beat-the.com
guatemala-sailfishing-vacations-charters.com
magie-marketing.com
kingstonliteracy.com
guitaraffinity.com
eurelookinggoodapparel.com
howtolosecheekfat.net
marioncma.org
oliviadavismusic.com
shantelcampbellrealestate.com
shopleborn13.com
topindiafree.com
v-visitors.net
djjky.com
053hh.com
originbluei.com
baucishotel.com
33kkn.com
intrinsiqresearch.com
mariaescort-kiev.com
mymaguk.com
sponsored4u.com
crimsonclass.com
bataillenavale.com
searchtile.com
ze-stribrnych-struh.com
zenithalhype.com
modalpkv.com
bouisset-lafforgue.com
useupload.com
37r.net
autoankauf-muenster.com
bantinbongda.net
bilgius.com
brabustermagazine.com
indigrow.org
miicrosofts.net
mysmiletravel.com
selinasims.com
spellcubesapp.com
usa-faction.com
hypoallergenicdogsnames.com
dailyupdatez.com
foodphotographyreviews.com
cricutcom-setup.com
chprowebdesign.com
katyrealty-kanepa.com
tasramar.com
bilgipinari.org
four-am.com
indiarepublicday.com
inquick-enbooks.com
iracmpi.com
kakaschoenen.com
lsm99flash.com
nana1255.com
ngen-niagara.com
technwzs.com
virtualonlinecasino1345.com
wallpapertop.net
casino-natali.com
iprofit-internet.com
denochemexicana.com
eventhalfkg.com
medcon-taiwan.com
life-himawari.com
myriamshomes.com
nightmarevue.com
healthandfitnesslives.com
androidnews-jp.com
allstarsru.com
bestofthebuckeyestate.com
bestofthefirststate.com
bestwireless7.com
britsmile.com
declarationintermittent.com
findhereall.com
jingyou888.com
lsm99deal.com
lsm99galaxy.com
moozatech.com
nuagh.com
patliyo.com
philomenamagikz.net
rckouba.net
saturnunipessoallda.com
tallahasseefrolics.com
thematurehardcore.net
totalenvironment-inthatquietearth.com
velislavakaymakanova.com
vermontenergetic.com
kakakpintar.com
jerusalemdispatch.com
begorgeouslady.com
1800birks4u.com
2wheelstogo.com
6strip4you.com
bigdata-world.net
emailandco.net
gacapal.com
jharpost.com
krishnaastro.com
lsm99credit.com
mascalzonicampani.com
sitemapxml.org
thecityslums.net
topagh.com
flairnetwebdesign.com
rajasthancarservices.com
bangkaeair.com
beneventocoupon.com
noternet.org
oqtive.com
smilebrightrx.com
decollage-etiquette.com
1millionbestdownloads.com
7658.info
bidbass.com
devlopworldtech.com
digitalmarketingrajkot.com
fluginfo.net
naqlafshk.com
passion-decouverte.com
playsirius.com
spacceleratorintl.com
stikyballs.com
top10way.com
yokidsyogurt.com
zszyhl.com
16firthcrescent.com
abogadolaboralistamd.com
apk2wap.com
aromacremeria.com
banparacard.com
bosmanraws.com
businessproviderblog.com
caltonosa.com
calvaryrevivalchurch.org
chastenedsoulwithabrokenheart.com
cheminotsgardcevennes.com
cooksspot.com
cqxzpt.com
deesywig.com
deltacartoonmaps.com
despixelsetdeshommes.com
duocoracaobrasileiro.com
fareshopbd.com
goodpainspills.com
hemendekor.com
kobisitecdn.com
makaigoods.com
mgs1454.com
piccadillyresidences.com
radiolaondafresca.com
rubendorf.com
searchengineimprov.com
sellmyhrvahome.com
shugahouseessentials.com
sonihullquad.com
subtractkilos.com
valeriekelmansky.com
vipasdigitalmarketing.com
voolivrerj.com
worldhealthstory.com
zeelonggroup.com
1015southrockhill.com
10x10b.com
111-online-casinos.com
191cb.com
3665arpentunitd.com
aitesonics.com
bag-shokunin.com
brightotech.com
communication-digitale-services.com
covoakland.org
dariaprimapack.com
freefortniteaccountss.com
gatebizglobal.com
global1entertainmentnews.com
greatytene.com
hiroshiwakita.com
iktodaypk.com
jahatsakong.com
meadowbrookgolfgroup.com
newsbharati.net
platinumstudiosdesign.com
slotxogamesplay.com
strikestaruk.com
techguroh.com
trucosdefortnite.com
ufabetrune.com
weddedtowhitmore.com
12940brycecanyonunitb.com
1311dietrichoaks.com
2monarchtraceunit303.com
601legendhill.com
850elaine.com
adieusolasomade.com
andora-ke.com
bestslotxogames.com
cannagomcallen.com
endlesslyhot.com
iestpjva.com
ouqprint.com
pwmaplefest.com
qtylmr.com
rb88betting.com
buscadogues.com
1007macfm.com
born-wild.com
growthinvests.com
promocode-casino.com
proyectogalgoargentina.com
wbthompson-art.com
whitemountainwheels.com
7thavehvl.com
developmethis.com
funkydogbowties.com
travelodgegrandjunction.com
gao-town.com
globalmarketsuite.com
blogshippo.com
hdbka.com
proboards67.com
outletonline-michaelkors.com
kalkis-research.com
thuthuatit.net
buckcash.com
hollistercanada.com
docterror.com
asadart.com
vmayke.org
erwincomputers.com
dirimart.org
okkii.com
loteriasdecehegin.com
mountanalog.com
healingtaobritain.com
ttxmonitor.com
nwordpress.com
11bolabonanza.com