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Best Rewards Credit Cards to Maximize Your Spending in 2025

The Penny Hoarder Staff

by The Penny Hoarder Staff

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In today’s world, using the right rewards credit card is one of the smartest ways to get more value from your everyday spending. Whether it’s cashback on groceries, points toward travel, or miles for your next adventure, rewards credit cards are designed to help you earn as you spend. But with so many options available, it can be tricky to figure out which one is the best fit for you. In this guide, we’ll break down the top rewards credit cards of 2025 and help you maximize every dollar you spend.

Best Rewards Credit Cards:

What to Look for in a Rewards Credit Card

When shopping for the best rewards credit card, there are a few key features to consider. The right card for you will depend on your spending habits and lifestyle. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

  • Rewards Type: Rewards cards typically offer cashback, points, or miles. Cashback is straightforward—you get a percentage of what you spend back as cash. Points and miles, on the other hand, can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, or other rewards. If you love to travel, a card that earns miles might be a better fit. If you prefer flexibility, cashback is often the way to go.
  • Redemption Flexibility: Some cards have strict rules about how you can redeem your rewards, while others let you redeem points or cashback in multiple ways, like for travel, statement credits, or gift cards. Make sure the card you choose has redemption options that suit your lifestyle.
  • Sign-Up Bonuses: Many rewards credit cards offer hefty sign-up bonuses if you meet a spending requirement within the first few months. These bonuses can be a great way to kickstart your rewards. Just be sure you can meet the spending threshold without overspending.
  • Ongoing Rewards Rates: Pay attention to how a card rewards you for everyday purchases. Some cards offer flat-rate rewards on everything, while others give you higher rewards rates in specific categories like groceries, gas, or dining.
  • Annual Fees and APR: Don’t forget to check whether the card charges an annual fee and what the ongoing APR (annual percentage rate) will be after any introductory offers. Cards with annual fees can still be worth it if the rewards and perks outweigh the cost, but it’s something to consider carefully.

Comparing Rewards Credit Cards

To help you find the best rewards credit card, let’s compare some of the top options for 2025. Below is a breakdown of rewards rates, sign-up bonuses, and other important details to help you decide which card is right for you.

1. Chase Freedom Unlimited®

best for pairing with chase cards

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card offers cash back on nearly everything, making it perfect for those who want a simple yet rewarding card. With 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 15 months and a $0 annual fee, it’s a great card for balancing debt repayment and earning rewards.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

  • Versatile Cash Back: Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
  • Long Intro APR: Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.49% – 28.24%.
  • No Annual Fee: Keep all your rewards with a $0 annual fee.

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Ongoing APR Can Be High: Once the intro period ends, the APR can jump, so aim to pay off your balance before that happens.
  • Shorter Intro Period for Big Debts: If you’re managing a large balance, you might need more time to pay it off. (See Rates & Fees)

Real-Life Scenario: If you’re looking for a card that offers cash back on everyday spending while also giving you time to manage debt with a 0% Intro APR on Purchases, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a solid choice.

Explore the Chase Freedom Unlimited® Card

2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Best for Flat-Rate Rewards

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a favorite among frequent travelers for its straightforward rewards structure and ability to earn 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day. Plus, it comes with valuable travel perks like Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credits and no blackout dates.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

  • Unlimited Miles: Earn 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day. 5 Miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
  • Big Sign-Up Bonus: Get 75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening, plus receive a one-time $250 Capital One Travel credit to use in your first cardholder year – that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
  • Transfer to Travel Partners: Move your miles to over 15 travel loyalty programs to maximize value.

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Annual Fee: There’s a $95 annual fee, which might be a drawback for occasional travelers.
  • Transfer Ratios: When transferring miles to partners, you might not always get a 1:1 ratio, so more miles may be needed to get full value.

Real-Life Scenario: If you’re a frequent traveler who wants a simple, flat-rate rewards structure without worrying about rotating categories, this card is a great choice.

Explore the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

3. Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Best for u.s. supermarkets

If you spend a lot on groceries, gas, and streaming services, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is designed to help you save. With up to major cash back at U.S. supermarkets and streaming subscriptions, this card gives you plenty of bang for your buck (terms apply).

Why It’s a Great Pick:

  • High Cash Back Rates: 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. 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more). 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
  • Intro Balance Transfer Offer: Enjoy an APR of 0% on purchases and 0% on balance transfers for 12 months (18.24% - 29.24% after intro period), giving you time to pay off debt.
  • $0 Intro Annual Fee: There’s a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Annual Fee After First Year: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.. (See Rates & Fees)
  • Limited Cash Back at Certain Stores: Purchases at Walmart®, Target®, and wholesale clubs like Costco don’t qualify for the higher cash back rates. 

Real-Life Scenario: If you’ve got a family and regularly spend on groceries, gas, and streaming services, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express can help you maximize your rewards.

Explore the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Enrollment is required for select benefits.

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

4. Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

best for dining and entertainment

If your life revolves around dining out, streaming your favorite shows, and grabbing groceries, the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card has your back. With a $0 annual fee and generous cash back on the things you love, this card keeps the rewards rolling in.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

  • Sign-up offer: Receive $200 Cash Back after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening.
  • Cash Back Where It Counts: 3% Cash Back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services. 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply). 8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases. 1% Cash Back on all other purchases.
  • No Annual Fee: All these perks come with a $0 yearly fee, making it even easier to earn.

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Superstores Don’t Qualify: Grocery purchases at places like Walmart® and Target® won’t earn you cash back.
  • Balance Transfer Fee: Balance transfer fee applies for 15 months intro period.

Real-Life Scenario: If you spend a lot on food, entertainment, and streaming services, this card will reward you for your everyday lifestyle, all without an annual fee.

Explore the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

5. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Best for unlimited cash back

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card makes it simple to earn cash rewards twice with an unlimited 2% cash rewards rate on all purchases. Plus, a 0% intro APR for 12 months can help you keep your debt under control.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

  • Unlimited Cash Rewards: Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
  • Cash Bonus: Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Intro APR: 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening.
  • No Annual Fee: Earn cash back without worrying about an annual fee. (See rates & fees)

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Balance Transfer Fee: On balance transfers, you’ll pay 3% for 120 days from account opening, then up to 5%, min: $5. Factor this in when transferring larger balances.
  • APR After Intro Period: You’ll pay a 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% variable APR after the intro APR period.

Real-Life Scenario: If you’re looking for a card with unlimited cash rewards on all purchases and want to enjoy a lengthy 0% APR period, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card could be right for you.

Explore the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card 

6. Citi Double Cash® Card

Best for Consistent Cash Back

The Citi Double Cash® Card makes it easy to earn cash back twice: once when you buy and again when you pay. With cash back of 1% when you buy plus 1% as you pay, this card is perfect for people who want to maximize their rewards across the board.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

  • Double the Cash Back: 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. Plus, a special travel offer, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/25.
  • Long 0% APR Period: Enjoy 0% APR for 18 months on Balance Transfers (18.24% - 28.24% variable APR after that), giving you plenty of time to manage your debt.
  • No Annual Fee: Earn rewards without worrying about an annual fee. (See rates & fees)

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Balance Transfer Fee: There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5). Factor that in when transferring larger balances.
  • No Sign-Up Bonus: Unlike many other cards, there’s no introductory bonus, so it’s all about long-term rewards.

Real-Life Scenario: If you’re looking for a card that rewards you consistently across all purchases and want extra time to pay off balances, the Citi Double Cash® Card is a great way to double up on rewards without an annual fee.

Explore the Citi Double Cash® Card

7. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

best for customizable rewards

The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card allows you to choose your top cash back category, making it a great option for those looking for flexibility in how they earn rewards. With no annual fee, it’s a versatile card that adapts to your changing spending patterns.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

  • Customizable Cash Back: Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, such as gas, online shopping, or dining, with automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined purchases).
  • No Annual Fee: Keep all your rewards without paying a yearly fee. (See Rates & Fees)
  • Intro APR Offer: Enjoy 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles (19.24% – 29.24% variable after that).

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Quarterly Cap: The 3% and 2% cash back rates are capped at $2,500 in combined choice category, grocery store, and wholesale club purchases per quarter. After that, you’ll earn 1%.
  • Balance Transfer Fee: There’s a 3% intro balance transfer fee for transfers made within the first 60 days.

Real-Life Scenario: If you want a card that lets you tailor your rewards to fit your spending, the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card gives you the flexibility to choose your top earning category.

Explore the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

Additional Perks of Using Rewards Credit Cards

Rewards credit cards don’t just offer cashback, points, or miles. Many also come with valuable perks that can make your spending even more rewarding. Here are a few extra benefits to consider when choosing your card:

  • Purchase Protection: Some rewards cards offer purchase protection, meaning you can be reimbursed if an item you bought with your card is damaged or stolen within a certain period.
  • Extended Warranties: Many cards extend the manufacturer’s warranty on items purchased with the card, giving you added peace of mind on big-ticket purchases.
  • Travel Insurance: If you’re using a rewards card that earns travel miles, you might also benefit from travel insurance. This can cover things like trip cancellations, lost luggage, or travel delays.
  • Concierge Services: Some premium rewards cards come with concierge services that can help with things like booking dinner reservations, securing event tickets, or even planning trips.
  • Exclusive Event Access: Certain cards offer cardholders access to special events, from concerts to VIP travel experiences. These perks can make having the card even more rewarding.

How to Choose the Right Rewards Credit Card for Your Spending Habits

Selecting the right rewards credit card depends on how you spend your money. Here are a few things to consider before you make your decision:

  • Where You Spend the Most: Do you spend a lot on groceries, gas, or dining out? Look for a card that offers high rewards in those categories. For example, if you’re a frequent traveler, a travel rewards card with miles might be a better fit than a cashback card.
  • Preferred Rewards Type: Think about how you want to use your rewards. If you value flexibility, a card that offers cashback might be ideal. If you prefer to earn points for travel or other experiences, a points-based card could be better.
  • Maximizing Rewards: Some cards offer tiered rewards, meaning you earn more in specific categories. Others offer flat-rate rewards, which can be simpler to manage. Choose a card that aligns with how you spend and whether you can maximize its rewards structure.
  • Current Credit Cards: If you already have a credit card, take a look at the rewards it offers. Are you getting the most out of it? If not, it may be worth considering a new rewards card that better suits your spending habits.

By evaluating your spending patterns and deciding what type of rewards matter most to you, you can pick a rewards card that helps you get the most bang for your buck.