Best Rewards Credit Cards to Maximize Your Spending in 2025

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:

• Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express
• Capital One Savor Cash Rewards
• Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
• Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card
• Hilton Honors American Express Card
• Citi Double Cash Card
• Discover it Cash Back
• Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
• Citi Custom Cash Card

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. Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express

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 6% 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: 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 0% on purchases and for the first 12 months (18.24% - 29.24% after intro period), giving you time to pay off debt.
• $0 Intro Annual Fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Annual Fee After First Year: After the first year, you’ll need to pay a $95 annual fee. _{^{(See Rates & Fees)}}
• Limited Cash Back at Certain Stores: Purchases at some grocery stores 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.

Enrollment is required for select benefits. For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, please visit here.

Explore the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

2. Capital One Savor Cash Rewards

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 No 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 Backafter 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 annual fee, making it even easier to earn.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Superstores Don’t Qualify: Grocery purchases at certain superstores won’t earn you cash back. So be sure to check that the stores you frequent are on the list for rewards.

Real-Life Scenario: If you spend a lot on food, entertainment, and streaming services, this card will reward you for your everyday lifestyle, all with No annual fee.

Explore the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

3. Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card offers substantial rewards and benefits for business owners who want to make the most of their spending. With a high earning cap and versatile redemption options, this card is designed to maximize value.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Featured promotion: Earn 90,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Maximized Rewards: Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, shipping purchases, Internet, cable and phone services, advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases-with no limit to the amount you can earn.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• High Annual Fee: An $95 annual fee that can be easily offset with regular spending.
• No Balance Transfers: This card isn’t ideal for transferring debt, as it comes with Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

Real-Life Scenario: Whether for earning rewards on your business expenses or enjoying extra value on purchases, the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is a top contender for your business needs.

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4.  Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card delivers valuable rewards and travel perks for frequent Southwest flyers, with bonus points that can quickly add up through everyday purchases.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Generous Welcome Bonus: Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Ongoing Perks: Receive 7,500 anniversary points, 4 upgraded boardings per year when available, and a $75 Southwest® travel credit each year.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• High Annual Fee: While the $149 annual fee is higher than some airline cards, the perks and credits can help balance the cost.
• Airline-Specific Rewards: Best suited for Southwest flyers who can maximize the card’s travel benefits.

Real-Life Scenario: If Southwest Airlines is your preferred carrier, this card’s rewards structure and travel perks can provide excellent value for your loyalty.

Explore the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

5. Hilton Honors American Express Card

The Hilton Honors American Express Card offers strong rewards for loyal Hilton guests and everyday spenders alike, with a $0 annual fee and perks that make it a versatile choice for travelers.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Featured promotion: Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Pointsafter you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• High Earning Potential: Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio. Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations. Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Brand-Specific Focus: Best for those who frequently stay at Hilton properties; other travelers might find more flexible cards elsewhere.
• No Free Night Perk: Unlike some Hilton cards, this one doesn’t offer free weekend night rewards.

Real-Life Scenario: With a $0 annual fee, robust earning categories, and travel-friendly features like no foreign transaction fees, this card is an excellent fit for Hilton loyalists looking to maximize their rewards. Terms apply.

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6. Citi Double Cash Card

The Citi Double Cash® Card stands out as a simple and effective way to earn cash back on every purchase. With a $0 annual fee and an easy-to-understand rewards structure, it’s perfect for everyday use.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Straightforward Rewards: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.
• Generous Intro Offer: Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Foreign Transaction Fees: This card isn’t ideal for international travel, as it charges a 3% fee on foreign transactions.
• Balance Transfer Limits: 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).

Real-Life Scenario: With its simple, unlimited rewards and a $0 annual fee, the Citi Double Cash® Card is a smart choice for anyone looking for a hassle-free cash-back card.

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7. Discover it Cash Back

The Discover it® Cash Back card offers 5% cash back on rotating categories that change each quarter, such as grocery stores, restaurants, or gas stations, making it perfect for those who like variety in their rewards. Plus, there’s a $0 annual fee, making it a budget-friendly option.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Rotating 5% Cash Back: Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
• No Annual Fee: Keep all your rewards with a $0 annual fee.
• Intro APR Offer: Enjoy0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers 18.24% - 27.24% Variable APR after that).

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Category Activation Required: You’ll need to activate the 5% bonus category each quarter to maximize your rewards.
• Quarterly Cap: The 5% cash back applies to up to $1,500 in purchases each quarter, after which you’ll earn 1%.

Real-Life Scenario: If you enjoy getting higher rewards in categories that rotate each quarter, the Discover it® Cash Back is a great way to boost your cash back on a variety of everyday purchases.

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8. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

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

9. Citi Custom Cash Card

The Citi Custom Cash® Card is ideal for those who want to maximize their cash back in specific categories that vary each billing cycle. With no annual fee and an impressive cash back on your top spending category, it’s a flexible card that adapts to your spending habits.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Tailored Cash Back: Citi Custom Cash® Card.
• No Annual Fee: You won’t have to worry about any annual fee eating into your rewards. _{^{(See Rates & Fees)}}
• Intro APR Offer: Enjoy Citi Custom Cash® Card on purchases and Citi Custom Cash® Card (18.49% - 28.49% variable after that).

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Spending Cap on High Cash Back: The 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter.
• Balance Transfer Fee: While the card offers an attractive balance transfer intro rate, the transfer must be made within the first 4 months.

Real-Life Scenario: If your spending habits vary month to month, the Citi Custom Cash® Card allows you to maximize rewards in whichever category you’re using the most.

Explore the Citi Custom Cash® 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.