If you’re tired of the same old cards and are searching for alternatives, there are several other cash back options available that can deliver great rewards. Many of these cards offer lucrative cash back on specific categories or a flat-rate reward on all purchases, helping you maximize your spending. Let’s dive into seven top choices for 2023.
1. U.S. Bank Cash+™ Visa Signature® Card
Overview:
The U.S. Bank Cash+™ Visa Signature® Card is perfect for those who want flexibility in how they earn their rewards. This card allows you to choose two categories every quarter to earn 5% cash back, and you’ll also get 2% on grocery store and gas station purchases. There’s no annual fee, making this an attractive option for budget-conscious users.
Why It’s Great:
What sets this card apart is the customizable rewards program. You get to select which categories earn you 5% cash back, such as home improvement or online streaming, depending on your spending patterns. The 2% on groceries and gas is a great bonus for everyday purchases.
2. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Overview:
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers an impressive 2% cash back on every purchase, which is ideal for anyone looking for a simple, straightforward rewards card. There are no rotating categories to keep track of, no spending limits, and no annual fee. Plus, you’ll get a generous welcome bonus when you meet the required spending threshold.
Why It’s Great:
This card is perfect for people who want easy-to-understand rewards without the hassle of rotating categories or specific spending limits. Its flat 2% cash back is one of the best rates available, and the lack of annual fees makes it an attractive choice for anyone looking for simplicity.
3. American Express Blue Cash Everyday® Card
Overview:
For those who want to earn cash back on everyday purchases, the American Express Blue Cash Everyday® Card offers 3% cash back on U.S. supermarket purchases (up to $6,000 per year) and 2% on U.S. gas stations and select department stores. With no annual fee, this card is perfect for anyone looking to earn rewards on common expenses.
Why It’s Great:
This card shines for grocery shoppers who want to rack up 3% cash back. If you fill up your car at gas stations often or love to shop at department stores, the 2% cash back in those categories adds extra value. The Blue Cash Everyday® Card also comes with a welcome bonus for new cardholders.
4. Citi Custom Cash℠ Card
Overview:
The Citi Custom Cash℠ Card stands out by offering 5% cash back on your top spending category each billing cycle (on the first $500 spent), and 1% on other purchases. Categories that qualify for the 5% back include restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores, among others. There’s no annual fee, and it comes with a nice introductory offer for new customers.
Why It’s Great:
With the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card, you don’t need to worry about activating or tracking categories. It automatically adapts to your spending, rewarding you with 5% cash back on the category you spend the most on each month. It’s perfect for people who want big rewards without the need to keep track of rotating categories.
5. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
Overview:
The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card offers a unique approach to cash back. You’ll earn 3% cash back on a category of your choice, such as online shopping, dining, or travel, and 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs. Plus, you’ll earn 1% on all other purchases. The card also has no annual fee and includes a welcome offer for new cardholders.
Why It’s Great:
This card gives you the flexibility to pick your favorite spending category, allowing you to earn 3% cash back on what matters most to you. Combined with the 2% cash back on groceries, this card is great for people who want a customized rewards experience.
6. HSBC Cash Rewards Mastercard® Credit Card
Overview:
The HSBC Cash Rewards Mastercard® Credit Card offers 3% cash back on the first $10,000 spent each year, and 1.5% on all other purchases. This card also includes an introductory 0% APR for the first 15 months, making it a good option for those who may need to carry a balance for a while.
Why It’s Great:
With no annual fee, the HSBC Cash Rewards card is ideal for people who want high rewards on their purchases without any complicated redemption processes. The 3% cash back on up to $10,000 in annual purchases offers significant value for people who spend a lot in their first year.
7. PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature® Card
Overview:
The PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature® Card offers up to 5x points (redeemable as cash back) on purchases at gas stations and at the Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) Premium Rewards Program partners. Additionally, you’ll earn 3x points on supermarket and restaurant purchases, making it a great option for daily expenses.
Why It’s Great:
If you’re a frequent gas station visitor or love dining out, this card is a strong contender. The ability to earn 5x points on gas and 3x on groceries makes it ideal for maximizing cash back on everyday purchases. PenFed membership is required, but it’s easy to join and can unlock some great benefits.
Conclusion
When it comes to cash back credit cards, there’s no shortage of great options beyond the usual suspects like Chase and Discover. Cards such as the U.S. Bank Cash+™ Visa Signature® Card and Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card provide flexible and high rewards on common categories. For those who prefer simplicity, the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card and American Express Blue Cash Everyday® Card offer great cash back on everyday expenses. Regardless of your spending habits, these cards are all excellent choices for earning rewards on your purchases.
