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Brendan Dyer holds a Master of Fine Arts in Journalism from Western Connecticut State University and worked previously as a content editor for Regional News Network, a hyper-local TV news station contracted by Verizon FiOS1 News. As a national service volunteer, Brendan exercised a passion for helping underserved communities and demographics through direct, community service. He constantly seeks to apply his expertise as a journalist to the field of personal finance with the goal of helping people navigate the complexities of the credit card industry.
Bankrate expert Garrett Yarbrough strives to make navigating credit cards and credit building smooth sailing for his readers. After regularly featuring his credit card, credit monitoring and identity theft analysis on NextAdvisor.com, he joined the CreditCards.com and Bankrate teams as a staff writer to develop product reviews and comprehensive credit card guides focused on cash back, credit scores and card offers.
Courtney Mihocik is an editor at Bankrate Credit Cards and CreditCards.com specializing in credit card news and personal finance advice. Previously, she led insurance content at Reviews.com and worked as the loans editor at The Simple Dollar.
Courtney Mihocik is an editor at Bankrate Credit Cards and CreditCards.com specializing in credit card news and personal finance advice. Previously, she led insurance content at Reviews.com and worked as the loans editor at The Simple Dollar.
Brendan Dyer holds a Master of Fine Arts in Journalism from Western Connecticut State University and worked previously as a content editor for Regional News Network, a hyper-local TV news station contracted by Verizon FiOS1 News. As a national service volunteer, Brendan exercised a passion for helping underserved communities and demographics through direct, community service. He constantly seeks to apply his expertise as a journalist to the field of personal finance with the goal of helping people navigate the complexities of the credit card industry.
Bankrate expert Garrett Yarbrough strives to make navigating credit cards and credit building smooth sailing for his readers. After regularly featuring his credit card, credit monitoring and identity theft analysis on NextAdvisor.com, he joined the CreditCards.com and Bankrate teams as a staff writer to develop product reviews and comprehensive credit card guides focused on cash back, credit scores and card offers.
Courtney Mihocik is an editor at Bankrate Credit Cards and CreditCards.com specializing in credit card news and personal finance advice. Previously, she led insurance content at Reviews.com and worked as the loans editor at The Simple Dollar.
Brendan Dyer holds a Master of Fine Arts in Journalism from Western Connecticut State University and worked previously as a content editor for Regional News Network, a hyper-local TV news station contracted by Verizon FiOS1 News. As a national service volunteer, Brendan exercised a passion for helping underserved communities and demographics through direct, community service. He constantly seeks to apply his expertise as a journalist to the field of personal finance with the goal of helping people navigate the complexities of the credit card industry.
Bankrate expert Garrett Yarbrough strives to make navigating credit cards and credit building smooth sailing for his readers. After regularly featuring his credit card, credit monitoring and identity theft analysis on NextAdvisor.com, he joined the CreditCards.com and Bankrate teams as a staff writer to develop product reviews and comprehensive credit card guides focused on cash back, credit scores and card offers.
Courtney Mihocik is an editor at Bankrate Credit Cards and CreditCards.com specializing in credit card news and personal finance advice. Previously, she led insurance content at Reviews.com and worked as the loans editor at The Simple Dollar.
Courtney Mihocik is an editor at Bankrate Credit Cards and CreditCards.com specializing in credit card news and personal finance advice. Previously, she led insurance content at Reviews.com and worked as the loans editor at The Simple Dollar.
Brendan Dyer holds a Master of Fine Arts in Journalism from Western Connecticut State University and worked previously as a content editor for Regional News Network, a hyper-local TV news station contracted by Verizon FiOS1 News. As a national service volunteer, Brendan exercised a passion for helping underserved communities and demographics through direct, community service. He constantly seeks to apply his expertise as a journalist to the field of personal finance with the goal of helping people navigate the complexities of the credit card industry.
Bankrate expert Garrett Yarbrough strives to make navigating credit cards and credit building smooth sailing for his readers. After regularly featuring his credit card, credit monitoring and identity theft analysis on NextAdvisor.com, he joined the CreditCards.com and Bankrate teams as a staff writer to develop product reviews and comprehensive credit card guides focused on cash back, credit scores and card offers.
Courtney Mihocik is an editor at Bankrate Credit Cards and CreditCards.com specializing in credit card news and personal finance advice. Previously, she led insurance content at Reviews.com and worked as the loans editor at The Simple Dollar.
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and
how we rate our cards.
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Bankrate.com is an independent, advertising-supported publisher and comparison service. We are compensated in exchange for placement of sponsored products and services, or by you clicking on certain links posted on our site. Therefore, this compensation may impact how, where and in what order products appear within listing categories, except where prohibited by law for our mortgage, home equity and other home lending products. Other factors, such as our own proprietary website rules and whether a product is offered in your area or at your self-selected credit score range, can also impact how and where products appear on this site. While we strive to provide a wide range of offers, Bankrate does not include information about every financial or credit product or service.
A welcome bonus is one of the best perks you can get on a new credit card, allowing you to earn a lump sum of cash back, points or miles after spending a certain amount in a set timeframe. On average, Americans have three or four credit cards in their wallets, so a bonus on each of them could be worth hundreds in cash back or travel value.
That said, there’s more to a great credit card bonus than its redemption value. Consider also whether the spending required to earn the bonus fits your budget and whether the card will offer value for years to come, not just in your first year.
To make your decision easier, we’ve analyzed credit card bonus offers and provided our top picks, along with tips to help you choose.
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We helped put over 115,000 cards in people's wallets in 2023
Match to cards with approval odds and apply with confidence
Over 47 years of experience helping people make smart financial decisions
Why choose Bankrate
We helped put over 115,000 cards in people's wallets in 2023
Match to cards with approval odds and apply with confidence
Over 47 years of experience helping people make smart financial decisions
The Bankrate Promise
At Bankrate we strive to help you make smarter financial decisions. While we adhere to strict editorial integrity, this post may contain references to products from our partners. Here's an explanation for how we make money and how we rate our cards .
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
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A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Earn 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 in your first cardholder year – that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.
2 Miles - 5 Miles
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Why you’ll like this card:Its new sign-up bonus is easily one of the most valuable you can get on a general travel card at this cost.
5 Miles
5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
2 Miles
2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
What we love: Along with its limited-time welcome offer, this card carries terrific ongoing value thanks to its flat rewards rate and flexible miles, which can be worth even more when you transfer to airline and hotel partners.
Alternatives: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card may be a better fit long term for frequent travelers, despite its cost. It offers the same generous flat rewards rate for general purchases, plus a slew of valuable, practical perks like an annual travel credit and annual bonus miles.
Pros
It features one of its best-ever sign-up bonuses, which includes a one-time $250 Capital One Travel credit (plus 75,000 bonus miles) in your first cardholder year if you spend $4,000 in the first three months. That’s terrific extra value for a mid-tier travel card.
Its flat rewards rate makes it easy to earn miles on everyday spending, so even occasional travelers can take advantage.
Cons
Its points are only worth 1 cent each if you redeem via Capital One Travel, which falls short of the base redemption value offered by some competing cards.
While it’s ultra-valuable, the current sign-up bonus also requires a relatively high spend, which could put it out of reach if you don’t have a lot of expenses on the horizon.
Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
5X - 5X
Annual fee
$695
APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Why you’ll like this card:It boasts perhaps the most valuable perks and intro bonus you can get on a travel rewards card.
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
What we love: The intro bonus offers terrific travel redemption value, and you’ll have a hard time finding a card with better perks, including high-grade Marriott and Hilton elite status, plus perhaps the most comprehensive airport lounge access available with a credit card.
It carries some of the most valuable perks on the market, including an impressive mix of travel and shopping credits.
It offers top-of-the-line purchase and travel protections, including trip interruption and cancellation insurance, trip delay insurance and more.
Cons
The travel-centric rewards and niche perks may be impractical for the average cardholder, making it tough to justify the card’s cost.
The intro bonus carries an $8,000 spending requirement — double the spending required to earn several card offers of similar value.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
$200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
$200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
$189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for 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 receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠. 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries. 2x on all other travel purchases. 1x on all other purchases.
1x - 5x
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Why you’ll like this card:Chase points hold an especially high value whether you use for travel or cash back, making it ideal for beginners and occasional travelers.
5x
5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
3x
3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries.
2x
2x on all other travel purchases.
1x
1x on all other purchases.
What we love: This card boasts high-value rewards, a stellar sign-up bonus and a low annual fee, making it an excellent first travel card. Plus, the great travel perks, protections and card pairing opportunities can help you squeeze value out of the card far beyond the sign-up bonus.
You can boost the value of your points by 25 percent when redeemed through the Chase Travel℠ portal.
Unlike some rival cards, it offers plenty of annual perks that help offset the annual fee, including yearly bonus points and statement credits.
Cons
It lacks some of the travel perks you’ll get with higher-tier cards, like priority boarding.
The current sign-up bonus doesn’t hold the chart-topping value it has in the past.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel. 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.
2 Miles - 10 Miles
Annual fee
$395
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Why you’ll like this card:Its streamlined rewards rates, sign-up bonus value and travel perks could make it a better bang for your buck than other premium travel cards.
10 Miles
10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
5 Miles
5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel
2 Miles
2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
What we love: Several competing cards offer lower-value travel bonuses with the same spending requirement. You can also enjoy terrific ongoing value via its flat rewards rate, airline and hotel transfer partners and 10,000 bonus miles on your account anniversary.
Alternatives: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card’s sign-up bonus could be worth as much as the Venture X bonus if you redeem via Chase Travel, but the card’s annual fee is only $95. Plus, unlike the Venture X, the Sapphire Preferred lets you redeem points for cash back at a full 1-cent-per-point value, giving it better flexibility.
Pros
It carries several top-tier travel perks — such as a $300 annual Capital One Travel credit and Priority Pass — without an extravagant price tag.
You can redeem miles as a statement credit toward a wide range of travel purchases, including bookings with travel sites, airlines and hotels.
Cons
It likely won’t be worth it if you only travel occasionally and can’t make the most of the annual travel credit or bonus miles.
Capital One Travel is the only category that earns more than 2X miles, so a rival card could offer more everyday rewards value.
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Earn $250
Rewards rate
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 on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more. 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations. 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
1% - 6%
Annual fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
APR
19.24% - 29.99% Variable
Why you’ll like this card:It boasts an exceptional intro bonus and a top rewards rate in key everyday categories.
6%
6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
6%
6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
3%
3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more.
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
1%
1% Cash Back on other purchases
What we love: This card offers a best-in-class rewards rate on U.S. supermarket purchases and a solid rate at U.S. gas stations, making it a top pick for families, foodies and commuters. The intro bonus is also one of the highest-value offers you can get on a consumer rewards card.
The monthly statement credits toward eligible Disney Bundle streaming service subscription payments can recoup a majority of the annual fee.
It’s one of the few premium rewards cards that offers an intro APR on purchases.
Cons
Its annual fee may be a deal-breaker if you have a small grocery budget or aren’t interested in the Disney Bundle streaming services.
The 6 percent cash back rate at U.S. supermarkets doesn’t apply to wholesale clubs or superstores like Walmart, and it drops to just 1 percent after your first $6,000 in supermarket purchases each year.
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%.
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.
Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
$84 Disney Bundle Credit: With your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred Card, spend $9.99 or more each month on an auto-renewing Disney Bundle subscription, to receive a monthly statement credit of $7. Valid only at Disney Plus.com, Hulu.com or Plus.espn.com in the U.S.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
$200 cash rewards
Rewards rate
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
2%
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR
Why you’ll like this card:It offers a great combo of value and simplicity with its solid intro bonus and leading flat rewards rate.
2%
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
What we love: Its intro bonus boasts the same great value as rival no-annual-fee card bonuses, but also carries a lower spending requirement. Earning rewards afterwards is simple, too, since this card packs one of the highest unlimited flat cash rewards rates available.
Alternatives: The Citi Double Cash® Card may be a better option if you’re trying to pay off debt since it’s one of the few cards with a top-tier flat rewards rate and impressive intro offer. Citi rewards could even be worth more than Wells Fargo points if you redeem via travel partners with a premium Citi travel card.
Pros
It’s one of the few no-annual-fee cards to offer cellphone protection, and is one of the best in its class for annual coverage.
The flat rewards rate and intro offers make this a well-rounded card in the first year and beyond for almost anyone.
Cons
The Active Cash card’s perks aren’t as valuable as the perks you’ll find on competing cards, such as travel protections and annual streaming credits.
Wells Fargo doesn’t offer a long list of transfer partners and its travel cards lack premium perks and high-value rewards, making this card less appealing as the foundation of a travel card stack.
Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
$0 annual fee.
No categories to track or remember and cash rewards 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 your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
$200
Rewards rate
8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases. 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply). 3% Cash Back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®). 1% Cash Back on all other purchases.
1% - 8%
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Why you’ll like this card:Its platter of rewards categories features some of the best rates you can get on grocery and restaurant purchases at a low cost.
8%
8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
5%
5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)
3%
3% Cash Back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®)
1%
1% Cash Back on all other purchases
What we love: While its sign-up bonus boasts solid value for a card in its class, this card’s biggest strength is its food-focused rewards. It carries an impressive rewards rate across a much wider spread of food and entertainment categories than rival cards, and it’s one of the only cards that rewards both dining and grocery store purchases year round at the same great rate.
Alternatives: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® also offers a great unlimited rewards rate on dining, but stands out for its flat 1.5 percent cash back rate on general spending, which could make it a better standalone option if your spending doesn’t center around groceries or entertainment
Pros
It’s an especially versatile everyday rewards card thanks to it practical mix of bonus categories and simple — yet flexible — redemption.
On top of ongoing rewards, you can earn a whopping 10 percent cash back on Uber Eats orders and get a statement credit for Uber One monthly membership fees through Nov. 14, 2024.
Cons
The entertainment and streaming service bonus categories may not be as lucrative as other popular categories offered by competing cards.
Several competing cards carry stronger purchase protections, travel insurance and partner perks that last beyond the first few years.
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other purchases
Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
$200
Rewards rate
Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases). Earn automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases). Earn unlimited 1% on all other purchases.
1% - 3%
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.24% - 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Why you’ll like this card:Its bonus carries a low spend requirement and the card offers the flexibility to pick your top-rate bonus category, so it’s easy to maximize rewards.
3%
Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases).
2%
Earn automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases).
1%
Earn unlimited 1% on all other purchases.
What we love: While it offers a solid sign-up bonus, its standout feature is its rewards program, which allows you to pick one of six categories to earn bonus cash back. If you’re willing to sacrifice a higher rewards rate for more flexibility, this card could be a better long-term fit than a traditional rewards card.
Alternatives: The Citi Custom Cash® Card could be easier to manage since it automatically earns rewards in your top eligible spending category, without requiring you to choose each month. This gives you a chance to get a top cash back rate on a wide variety of purchases while still taking advantage of a great welcome bonus and intro APR offer.
Pros
You can earn rewards in a terrific mix of spending categories, making this one of the most versatile cards out there (especially for groceries and online shopping).
Bank of America Preferred Rewards® members can earn up to 75 percent more cash back on every purchase.
Cons
Its top rewards rates only apply to your first $2,500 in quarterly spending across eligible bonus categories, so it may fall short if you have large purchases on the horizon.
It requires twice as much spending as several rival cards to earn the same sign-up bonus value.
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases.
Choose 3% cash back on gas and EV charging station, online shopping/cable/internet/phone plan/streaming, dining, travel, drug store/pharmacy or home improvement/furnishings purchases.
If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 3.75%-5.25% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming. Earn 2X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.
1X - 2X
Annual fee
$69
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Why you’ll like this card:Its intro bonus offers a terrific return on spend and a nice boost toward the Companion Pass, which could save you thousands on Southwest flights.
2X
Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
2X
Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
2X
Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
2X
Earn 2X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners.
1X
Earn 1X points on all other purchases.
What we love: It welcomes you aboard with a great sign-up bonus — on par with its higher-tier Southwest counterparts. Add in the card’s anniversary bonus and you can get a big leg up toward qualifying for a coveted Southwest Companion Pass — one of the most valuable perks you can get on an airline card.
Alternatives: The general-purpose Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the best alternatives due to its impressive rewards, versatility, perks and sign-up bonus — especially since Southwest Airlines is one of Chase’s transfer partners
Pros
The card offers solid travel perks for a low-cost airline card, including lost and delayed baggage insurance plus your first two checked bags free.
The account anniversary bonus points, two annual EarlyBird Check-In boardings and checked baggage discounts offer enough value to easily recoup the annual fee.
Cons
There is a 3 percent foreign transaction fee — a big disappointment for a travel card.
The annual fee might not be worth it if you only occasionally fly with Southwest.
Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
3,000 anniversary points each year.
Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
2 EarlyBird Check-In® each year.
Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 7/31/2024.
Earn 130,000 points
Rewards rate
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio. Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations. Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases. Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
3X - 12X
Annual fee
$150
APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Why you’ll like this card:Occasional Hilton guests can score a great intro offer, lucrative everyday rewards and valuable Hilton perks at a reasonable cost.
12X
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
6X
Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
4X
Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
3X
Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
What we love: If you stay at Hilton hotels frequently enough to make use of Hilton loyalty status privileges and rewards, this premium hotel card could be well worth the annual fee. The intro offer is also especially valuable for a co-branded card available at this price.
Alternatives: Although the Surpass card’s annual fee can be offset by the value of quarterly hotel credits alone, the Hilton Honors American Express Card is a quality no-annual-fee counterpart. Meanwhile, a general-purpose travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® may offer more flexibility since you can earn and redeem rewards with multiple hotel brands.
Pros
It comes with automatic Hilton Honors Gold status, which can boost your rewards rates on Hilton stays and tack an extra fifth free night onto eligible stays of five nights or longer already booked with points.
The annual fee is easy to offset viaperks like up to $50 of Hilton purchase credits each quarter and a Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on purchases in a calendar year.
Cons
You can only redeem rewards through the Hilton Honors program and points are really only useful for hotel stays and experiences.
Despite its high rewards rates, the card’s points carry a low redemption value — about half the value of points you’d earn with a general travel rewards card.
Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 7/31/2024.
Get up to $200 back each year on eligible Hilton purchases after you use your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card.
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors ™ Gold Status with your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card.
Spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn Hilton Honors™ Diamond Status through the end of the next calendar year.
Enjoy complimentary National Car Rental® Emerald Club Executive® status. Enrollment in the complimentary Emerald Club® program is required. Terms apply.
No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
1.5X
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.24% - 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Why you’ll like this card:In addition to its beginner-friendly flat rewards rate, students can score one of the most valuable no-annual-fee card intro bonuses.
1.5X
Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
What we love: Starter cards aren’t known for carrying stellar welcome offers, but this card’s sign-up bonus is worth even more than the bonuses you’ll typically find on even the best no-annual-fee cards. The $0 foreign transaction fee also makes this card one of the best picks for students traveling or studying abroad.
Alternatives: The Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students provides similar features and sign-up bonus rewards, but its flat 1.5 percent cash back rate may be a better fit if you don’t plan on traveling much.
Pros
You can redeem points for a remarkable variety of travel purchases — even if purchases made up to 12 months prior.
Students who have enough savings for Preferred Rewards status could enjoy one of the best flat rewards rates on the market.
Cons
Points are only worth 0.6 cents apiece when you redeem for cash rewards, so a dedicated cash back card may be a better choice if you don’t travel often.
It doesn’t carry any notable student-centric perks or travel features. Some other cards offer perks like travel insurance or rideshare credits.
Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
When handled responsibly, a credit card can help you build your credit history, which could be helpful when looking for an apartment, a car loan, and even a job. Access your FICO® Score for free within Online Banking or your Mobile Banking app.
Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap. Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card. 1X is earned for other purchases. **.
1X - 4X
Annual fee
$375
Regular APR
19.49% - 28.49% Variable
Why you’ll like this card:Frequent flyers looking to maximize point value via transfer partners may find this one of the most lucrative business cards in both the short- and long-term.
4X
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
3X
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
1X
1X is earned for other purchases. **
What we love: The top-notch rewards rates on travel and in several key business spending categories make this one of the most rewarding business cards for travel. Its intro bonus can also be one of the most valuable out there if you redeem toward airfare or via the right travel transfer partner.
You could more than recoup the annual fee with monthly statement credits toward a Walmart+ membership and eligible office supply store, FedEx and GrubHub purchases.
It carries a few protections helpful for traveling employees, including cellphone, trip delay and baggage insurance.
Cons
The welcome offer spending limit is higher than the requirements of some competing card offers, and this card’s intro bonus could be worth less than these rival offers if you don’t plan to utilize transfer partner programs.
Despite the high $375 annual fee, the card is missing several key luxury-level travel perks like large travel credits and complimentary airport lounge access — for such a high $375 annual fee.
Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.
Your Card – Your Choice. Choose from Gold or Rose Gold.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business.
1.5%
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
18.49% - 24.49% Variable
Why you’ll like this card:It boasts a streamlined rewards program and a more valuable intro bonus than most no-annual-fee business cards.
1.5%
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
What we love: A sign-up bonus of this card’s caliber is usually reserved for credit cards with an annual fee, and its straightforward flat-rate rewards and intro APR make it an especially lucrative and flexible option.
An intro APR on purchases can be hard to find on business cards and could help you free up cash flow or pay off business expenses over time.
The convenient rewards structure is a great fit if most of your business spending falls outside of typical credit card bonus categories.
Cons
While it carries a high payoff, the sign-up bonus also carries a very high spending requirement.
Its cash back rewards rates offered falls short of the rate you’ll get on some competing cards.
Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
No Annual Fee
Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
Member FDIC
Best for category variety
Chase Freedom Flex®
*The information about the Chase Freedom Flex® has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.
*
Bankrate score
Rating: 4.8 stars out of 5
4.8
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Bankrate score
Rating: 4.8 stars out of 5
4.8
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score: 670 - 850
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Intro offer
Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
$200
Rewards rate
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!. 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠. 3% cash back on dining and drugstores. 1% cash back on all other purchases.
1% - 5%
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
20.49% - 29.24% Variable
Why you’ll like this card:Its year-round bonus categories and extraordinary perks can provide more first-year and ongoing value than other rotating category cards.
5%
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
5%
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
3%
3% cash back on dining and drugstores.
1%
1% cash back on all other purchases.
What we love: The sign-up bonus is easy to earn and its value is on par with other no-annual-fee cash back card offers. But the real draw is the card’s unique combo of rotating categories and year-round rewards on dining and drugstore purchases, which makes it a great foundation for your rewards strategy.
Alternatives: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® could deliver a more rewarding welcome offer (an extra 1.5 percent back on your first $20,000 in purchases) and its flat rewards rate on general purchases can offer more consistency than you’d get with a rotating rewards card.
Pros
It carries exceptional benefits for a no-annual-fee card, including trip cancellation/interruption insurance and 5 percent cash back on Lyft Rides (through March 31, 2025).
It can be a rewards powerhouse when paired with premium Ultimate Rewards cards, which offer stellar airline and hotel partners and boosted Chase Travel redemption value.
Cons
Needing to enroll in rotating categories each quarter and track spending may make the card too high maintenance.
We’ve seen stronger welcome offers for this card, including 5 percent cash back on up to $12,000 of grocery store purchases in the first year (excluding Target® and Walmart®).
Compare Bankrate's top credit card bonus offers
Card
Welcome offer
Annual fee
Bankrate review score
Intro Offer: Earn 75,000 miles
Earn 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 in your first cardholder year – that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 7/31/2024.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
Regular APR: 19.24% - 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
A credit card bonus — whether it’s called a sign-up bonus, intro bonus or welcome offer — is an incentive for new cardholders. In most cases, you’ll need to spend a certain amount on purchases with your new card within a specified time period (usually three to six months) to earn these bonuses. They mostly come as cash back, points or travel miles, but can also be one-time discounts or gift cards.
Credit card bonuses can offer great value if you can meet the spending requirement. Although many card bonuses have relatively low spending requirements of just a few hundred dollars over three months, some require you to spend $6,000 or more. If you’re comparing bonus offers, consider whether it offers a good return on your spending (at least 20 percent for a consumer card). Also keep in mind the value of any points or miles earned — 100,000 points with one hotel brand may not hold the same value as 60,000 miles with an airline.
Bonus credit cards pros and cons
Before you apply for a card because it has an enticing bonus, consider the pros and cons:
Pros
Competitive offers: People have plenty of credit card options, so card issuers offer strong bonuses to make their cards more attractive.
Versatile redemptions: A bonus can be cash back, points or miles, and you can often use rewards to book travel just as easily as to lower your balance.
Rewards for routine spending: Most cardholders will meet the spending requirements on several bonuses with routine spending, so you may not need to think much about earning them.
Cons
Spending requirements: Make sure the spending requirement fits your budget before applying for a card. Some bonuses carry spending requirements that will be difficult for the average person to meet without extra effort.
High interest rates: Bonuses are usually only available on cash back, business and rewards credit cards, which typically charge high interest rates. If you carry a balance from month to month, the interest you pay will undermine the value of the rewards and bonuses you earn.
Requires good credit: Most credit cards with bonuses require applicants to have good or excellent credit to qualify. Making on-time payments and keeping your account balances low are two of the most important ways to build credit fast.
Types of credit card bonuses
Credit card bonuses are typically distributed as additional cash back, points or miles. However, several types of welcome offers can be just as valuable — if not more so — than traditional, straightforward offers.
These offers are the most straightforward to earn and are available on several credit cards. They’re great for anyone who wants to earn a lump sum payment for their short-term spending. The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is a great example of a card with great first-year value for low initial spending.
Co-branded airline or hotel credit cards can offer perks like airfare companion passes or free night awards for meeting their bonus spending requirements. New cardholders can earn credits, perks or limited time offers for meeting spending requirements. One example is the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card, which includes Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ as part of its limited-time welcome offer.
Cards can sometimes offer boosted rewards rates in special bonus categories when you first open the card. These limited-time bonus categories usually expire after a certain time or when you reach a spending cap. For example, the Capital One Walmart Rewards® Mastercard® incentivizes Walmart shoppers with a boosted rewards rate for the first 12 months.
This type of welcome offer doesn’t hold a set value. It’s based instead on your spending. These offers either boost your ongoing rewards rates for a set period or match the rewards you earn within a set period. These offers can be especially valuable for big spenders. The best example is the Cashback Match you can find on Discover’s rewards cards.
A credit card may provide an upfront bonus the moment you’re approved for the card instead of setting a spending requirement. An offer like this is more common among store credit cards, such as the Amazon gift card that comes with opening the Prime Visa card.
Best credit card bonuses by issuer
Different issuers offer various enticing rewards. Whether you're looking for cash back, travel points or other perks, knowing which issuers provide the best bonuses is important. However, it shouldn’t be your only deciding factor. You should choose a credit card based on all that it offers, not just its bonus. Here are some of the cards with the top offers from each issuer.
The Platinum Card® from American Express: You can earn a substantial amount of American Express Membership Rewards points, which are among the most valuable credit card rewards currencies.
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express: Secure a decent statement credit for minimal spending over a six-month period, which is twice as long as purchase periods on other cards.
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card: This card’s offer is valued at roughly $600. Although it has a $95 annual fee, this offer alone can offset that cost for six years. Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: This card’s sign-up bonus offers one of the best return on spend rates available, rewarding cardholders with 45 percent of their spending requirement back as a cash bonus.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Chase Ultimate Rewards points are among the most valuable credit card rewards. According to our points and miles valuations, this card offers upwards of $1,200 worth of travel rewards value with its sign-up bonus, which is generous on a card with a $95 annual fee. Get 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months.
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card: This is perhaps the highest fixed sign-up bonus you’ll find on any credit card. Although its spending requirement is staggering, it has a modest annual fee.
Citi Premier® Card: This sign-up bonus is the highest one that Citi offers, so new cardholders can start their Citi journey with a generously valued welcome offer to fund upcoming travel.
Citi Double Cash® Card: The Double Cash card’s sign-up bonus is underwhelming compared to the Citi Premier card’s offer, but Premier cardholders can combine their points in the app for maximum redemption value.
Discover it® Cash Back: Discover’s first-year sign-up bonus is the same for all of its rewards cards, so the value of your offer depends on how much cash back you earn.
Discover it® Miles: Travelers who want a mile-for-mile sign-up bonus match can make the most of Discover’s Match®, which matches all the miles you earn at the end of your first year.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card: Wells Fargo’s top competitor with the Citi Double Cash for the best flat-rate cash back card tips the scales with its generous sign-up bonus because it has an industry-low spending requirement.
Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card: Cardholders can passively earn this card’s offer with their normal, everyday spending. It will also reward generously, so the card’s value isn’t wrapped up entirely with its sign-up bonus.
Our data: Ranking credit card bonuses
Our points and miles valuations play a vital role when we’re evaluating and comparing credit card bonuses. After all, the number of points or miles that come with a bonus don’t mean much if their redemption value is low. Only by estimating the average redemption value of points and miles can we get a clear sense of the true value of a card bonus.
Many of the top rewards cards carry bonuses that are worth several hundreds or even thousands of dollars, but most carry a far lower value.
Here’s a look at the top bonus offers currently available on this page, sorted by their estimated redemption value. You can also see the spending required to earn each bonus, as well as where its value ranks compared to the bonuses of other cards in the same category in our scoring database.
Card name
Estimated value*
Spending requirement
Return on spend
Value ranking*
The Platinum Card® from American Express
$1,600
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
20 percent
Better value than 99 percent of rewards cards
American Express® Business Gold Card
$1,400
Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
14 percent
Better value than 85 percent of business cards
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
$1,275
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
31.9 percent
Better value than 97 percent of rewards cards
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
$1,200
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
30 percent
Better value than 95 percent of all cards
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
$1,080
Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 7/31/2024.
36 percent
Better value than 89 percent of rewards cards
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
$750
Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
75 percent
Better value than 80 percent of rewards cards
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
$750
Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
12.5 percent
Better value than 68 percent of business cards
Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students
$250
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
25 percent
Better value than 99 percent of student cards
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
$250
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
8.3 percent
Better value than 85 percent of cash back cards
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
$200
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
40 percent
Better value than 50 percent of cash back cards
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
$200
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
40 percent
Better value than 50 percent of cash back cards
Chase Freedom Flex®
$200
Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
40 percent
Better value than 50 percent of cash back cards
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
$200
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
20 percent
Better value than 50 percent of cash back cards
* Bonus values and rankings based on Bankrate’s points and miles valuations and the current bonus available on each card compared with the values of other cards’ bonuses in our rankings database.
As you can see, high-value bonuses don’t always offer the best return on spend, so the bonus that fits you best will depend not only on its total value, but also on your spending habits and which rewards are most useful to you.
When welcome offers are worth it
Some bonuses are quite valuable but carry a high spending requirement, sometimes upwards of $1,000. With this in mind, it’s important to evaluate a credit card bonus based on the value it offers relative to the spending required.
For example, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card’s requires you to spend $1,000 in your first three months to earn 50,000 points (worth around $750 based on Bankrate’s airline point valuations). That is about 75 percent return on your spending — one of the most generous ratios you’ll find.
Compare that with the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, which offers 50,000 Delta SkyMiles after you spend $3,000 in your first six months of card membership (worth around $600 based on our valuations). That’s a 20 percent return on spend.
While return on spend is only one factor to consider when evaluating a bonus, it’s an easy way to assess which welcome offers are the most generous. As a rule of thumb, aim to get at least a 20 percent return on spend. You should also keep in mind the redemption value of the bonus, the total spending required, the timeframe and how useful the rewards currency is based on your goals.
Welcome offers may also encourage cardholders to spend more than they usually would just for the sake of earning the bonus. This spending behavior can lead you into debt and interest charges that have the potential to undermine your bonus and any ongoing rewards. You should avoid this kind of spending at all costs and don’t count on your credit card bonus to pay your balance.
If you want to apply for a card with a valuable bonus, make sure you can meet its spending requirement with your routine spending, unless there are large purchases you’d already planned to make that will help you reach the bonus faster.
What people say about the best credit card bonuses
In various online forums, including Reddit, many users have recently singled out Capital One credit cards as offering some of the best sign-up bonuses on the market. Capital One bonuses are often cited as a major draw for prospective cardholders and are credited with helping users quickly earn valuable rewards.
One user highlights the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card as offering an impressive sign-up and annual bonus, as well as great ongoing value (especially paired with the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card):
I like the Capital One duo ([the Venture X and SavorOne]). The [Venture X] will give a nice…sign up bonus, and the statement credits + anniversary points easily cover the [annual fee].
Another user cites the speed with which Capital One credits sign-up bonuses to cardholder accounts:
I like the lineup of Capital One cards. They always pay sign-up bonuses promptly, and they have good cash back with easy processes for redemption. They are also easier to deal with than the big banks.
Along with praise for specific sign-up bonuses, users share general advice on how to find the rewards card that fits you best. One key point: Don’t let the bonus be the only feature you consider.
One user emphasizes the importance of long-term value and picking the card that best fits your spending habits:
“No fee cards with modest bonuses are nice to take out routinely, but I try to be tactical about this where some of these cards have a long term use for specific categories…Hefty fee cards usually have higher bonuses, but [I] would encourage you to not force yourself to spend the money they offer - should be a natural fit into your life”
As you consider cards and card bonuses, you should also consider whether you can meet any spending requirements without overspending or going into debt. Additionally, create a plan for how you’ll redeem rewards to maximize the value of your sign-up bonus.
*The quotes and citations included on this page have been verified by our editorial team and are accurate as of the posting date. Be sure to check the issuer's website/terms and conditions for all up to date content. Outlinked content may contain views and opinions that do not reflect the views and opinions of Bankrate.
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
Expert advice for credit card bonuses
To make the most of a credit card bonus, you should continue to make wise credit decisions and avoid debt to keep your balance manageable, otherwise you might offset the value of your new bonus with interest charges. It’ll pay to research your card well; the more you know about your redemption options the more valuable your offer can end up being.
Plan ahead
Calculate the value of the sign-up bonus
It’s important to calculate the value of a sign-up bonus through the lens of your own financial goals. Although cards have different welcome offers, you can analyze many of them before applying to better understand which one fits your financial needs. Here are some quick tips for certain offers:
Rewards cards: If you want to earn travel points, look for a card that offers a bonus with points or miles and calculate the value of those points. Consider both the minimum redemption value offered by the rewards program as well as the potential value when you transfer to airline and hotel partners. You can use Bankrate’s points and miles valuation page as a guide when calculating the value of any potential bonus.
Cash back cards: Calculating a cash back sign-up bonus is straightforward since the dollar amount is already determined. Still, it may help to evaluate the offer based on a value-to-spending ratio if you want the best value (and aren’t worried about the spending requirement).
Limited-time bonus categories: If you want to calculate a limited-time bonus category's welcome offer value, multiply your spending in that category or the category’s spending cap by the limited-time rewards rate to determine how much you can earn.
Spend normally
Only apply for cards with bonuses you can realistically reach
It's essential to use credit responsibly by making timely payments and staying within your budget. If you spend beyond your means you risk running up interest charges that can outpace the value of any bonus you earn. Deciding on the right card means choosing one that won’t pressure you to spend money you don’t have. If you need to spend money you can’t pay off right away to earn a one-time bonus, it might not be a good fit.
Research redemptions
Redeem your points or miles for the most value possible
If your bonus rewards you with points or miles, redeem your rewards wisely to make the most of it. Redeeming points and miles for cash back or gift cards typically results in the lowest value, usually 1 cent or less. However, redeeming points and miles on the issuer’s travel portal or transferring to travel partners can yield the best value.
Consider long-term value
Make sure the card fits well into your overall budget and lifestyle
New credit accounts lower your average account age, which can hurt your credit score. Avoid opening new cards just for the bonus, unless these cards will help you in the long term. While bonuses can be attractive incentives, they shouldn’t be the sole reason for choosing a credit card. Consider all aspects of the offer before making a decision that suits your financial goals and needs. Also, always remember to manage your credit responsibly by paying off balances in full each month and keeping track of any fees the card charges.
How this Bankrate expert chooses cards with sign-up bonuses
Here’s how Bankrate writer and credit card expert, Ryan Flanigan, filters through his options when looking for a new credit card with a sign-up bonus:
“Getting a good sign-up bonus is one of the most important factors to consider when opening a new card. I place a lot of focus on how the current offer compares to previous offers because getting a lower offer than what came before can be lost value.
I also think about how the card will meet my needs overall. If I have a travel goal with an airline or hotel, a sign-up bonus can give me a big boost toward the amount of miles or points I need. Also, will any bonus categories help me earn more points while spending towards meeting the bonus? The more value I can extract initially, the better set up I'll be towards meeting my travel or cash back goals.
Lastly, I consider if I can achieve the spending requirement in the allotted timeframe. The biggest mistake someone can make is failing to spend enough to earn the welcome bonus because you won't get another chance. If I have large upcoming expenses, I try to put them towards a new sign-up bonus. Strategic spending like this can help defray larger costs by giving me a bigger return. While there are definitely many factors to consider when picking the right card with an ideal sign-up bonus, I can get a ton of value when I manage my spending wisely.”
— Ryan Flanigan, Writer, Credit Cards
How we assess the best credit cards with bonus offers?
250+
cards rated
50+
rewards programs valued
5000
data points analyzed
40+
perks evaluated
When evaluating the best credit cards with bonus offers, we consider both the quality of a card bonus itself and the card’s long-term value, including its cost and perks.
We calculate the value of each card’s bonus based on our internal point and mile valuations (assuming it’s not a cash bonus) and compare this to the value of bonuses available on cards in a similar category and at a similar price level. We also consider the spending required to earn each bonus.
After identifying cards that carry valuable bonuses with a high return on spend, we factor in how cards score overall in our proprietary card rating system and whether they offer features that fit the priorities of a diverse group of cardholders, from earning rewards to scoring a large welcome bonus to saving on interest.
We analyzed over 250 of the most popular credit cards and selected standouts with high-value bonuses. We scored each card based on the factors most relevant to its primary category, including its rewards rate, estimated annual earnings, intro APR period, ongoing APR, perks and more to determine whether it belonged in this month’s roundup.
Here’s a quick look at the factors that make up our card scoring methodology for rewards, cash back and business cards (the card types most likely to offer welcome bonuses), along with more information on how we assess the quality of card bonuses themselves.
Rewards & cash back card scoring factors
5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Overall Score
Value65%
Flexibility15%
Perks 15%
Customer experience5%
Business card scoring factors
5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Overall Score
Value40%
Flexibility20%
Perks20%
Customer experience20%
Unless you’re focused on earning a specific type of rewards, the redemption value of a credit card bonus is typically more important than the raw bonus amount (after all, 100,000 points with one rewards program can be worth less than 60,000 points with another).
As such, we take into account not only how many points or miles a bonus offers, but also the redemption value of those rewards. The higher the its bonus redemption value, the more likely a card is to earn a spot on our list of the best credit cards with a welcome bonus.
We also consider the return on spend offered by each bonus. While a bonus may offer terrific value, it may not be a great option overall if it requires an inordinate amount of spending to earn.
For example, a card that offers a bonus worth $500 after $3,000 in spending (a 17 percent return on spend) is less likely to make our list of top picks than a card that offers a bonus worth $200 with only a $500 spending requirement (a 40 percent return on spend), despite the latter bonus carrying a much lower redemption value.
Along with a bonus offer’s return on spend, we consider how easy it will be for the average cardholder to meet the spending requirement. Even if a card bonus boasts a high-value bonus and a terrific return on spend, its spending requirement may be too high for many people to reach, limiting its appeal.
For example, a card that offers a bonus worth $5,000 after $20,000 in spending is less likely to make our list of top picks than a card that offers a bonus worth $1,000 after $4,000 in spending.
Since many cardholders looking for card bonuses are eager to earn rewards, a key criteria for a card’s inclusion in our list is whether it offers impressive rewards value. This includes a card’s average rewards rate, estimated annual rewards earnings, and reward redemption value.
To estimate a card’s average annual rewards earnings, we calculate its average rewards rate based on how much it earns in different bonus categories, as well as how closely those categories match the average person’s spending habits. In other words: Does the card earn rewards at a high rate in the most popular spending categories?
We use consumer spending data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to get a reliable third-party measure of people’s spending habits. The most recent BLS data estimates average total spending in 2021 was $66,928 per consumer. We then narrow our focus to which purchases are likely to be put on a credit card and earn rewards, subtracting expenditures like housing, vehicle purchases and education. This gives us a total “chargeable” annual spend of around $22,500.
This includes the following spending by category:
Groceries: $5,200
Dining out: $3,000
Entertainment: $2,500
Gas: $2,100
Apparel and services: $1,700
Using this data, we assign a weighting to each of a card’s bonus categories. For example, a card’s grocery rewards rate receives a 23 percent weighting based on how much of the average person’s budget is spent on groceries. We also estimate the redemption value of points or miles from various issuer, airline and hotel rewards programs.
This weighting and rewards valuation allows us to estimate a card’s average annual rewards earnings — how many points or miles you’d earn with a given card if your spending was about average and you used the card for all of your purchases — as well as what those points are worth. We also use point valuations to determine the value of a card bonus offer.
With these calculations complete, we assign each card a score based on how its average rewards earnings, bonus value, rewards rate and redemption value stack up against other cards in its primary category.
The better these values, the higher its score will be, making it more worthy of inclusion in our list and increasing its potential ranking.
We also rate all cards based on how their ongoing average APR compares to the average APR you’ll find other cards in their primary category. However, the impact of an especially high or low APR on a card’s overall score depends on its primary category.
For rewards-earning cards, this factor has only a minor influence on the card’s score and whether the card is included in our list, since rewards card users generally try to avoid carrying a balance. That said, rewards-earning cards may get a solid boost in score and be more worthy of inclusion in our list if they also offer an intro APR on balance transfers or new purchases, since such offers aren’t always present on these cards.
More important to these cards’ scores and their inclusion in our list is how their annual fees influence their overall value. We consider a card’s annual fee in two ways — how it ranks relative to the fees you’ll find on other cards in the category and how it impacts a card’s overall rewards value.
Cards with an annual fee will always be at a slight disadvantage in our scoring system since annual fees inherently cut into your rewards value. However, if a card offers terrific value via its ongoing rewards and perks, it can earn a high score and a spot in our list even if it carries a high annual fee. After all, the highest rewards rates and most valuable perks are often found on cards with annual fees.
Interest rates and intro APR offers play a much larger role in a card’s score and whether it’s included in our list when the card is designed specifically for users looking to save on interest charges, such as dedicated balance transfer or low-interest cards.
Other fees considered include cash advance and late payment fees, along with penalty APRs.
Along with rewards value and cost, we consider other factors that could give cards great long-term value, like flexible rewards redemption and especially unique and valuable perks.
We rate rewards-earning cards based on the restrictions they impose on earning and redeeming rewards and consider this when deciding on a card’s inclusion in our list.
These restrictions could include only allowing users to earn a high rewards rate on a small amount of spending or requiring users to meet a certain earning threshold before they can redeem rewards. We also examine whether points are worth less when you opt for some redemption options over others and whether a card gives you the flexibility to transfer rewards to airline and hotel partners.
We also evaluate each card’s perks based on their value, usefulness and uniqueness. Cards that offer top-tier benefits like airport lounge access or travel credits are likely to stand out, but we also aim to highlight cards that offer valuable under-the-radar perks, like cellphone protection or one-off credits for everyday expenses like dining and streaming services.
Frequently asked questions about credit cards with sign-up bonuses
No, credit card sign-up bonuses are not tax deductible. In general, your sign-up bonus is not taxable if you have to spend money to earn it. However, the bonus could be considered taxable income if there isn’t a defined spending requirement.
The best bonus for you may depend on more than just the size of the bonus. Some people will also have to factor in the spending requirement and whether it fits their budget. However, here are some of the top intro bonuses for personal cards based on sheer rewards value alone:
Chase Sapphire Preferred: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Earn 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 in your first cardholder year – that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
Business rewards cards typically have larger welcome offers (with steeper spending requirements to match). Here are some of the biggest bonuses available with a new business card:
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card: Earn 120,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
A variety of cards with sign-up bonuses require minimal effort to qualify, including some cash back cards and travel rewards cards. On average, cash back credit cards tend to offer the lowest spending requirement for a welcome bonus. Some cash back credit cards require only $500 to $1,000 in spending to earn a decent bonus.
By researching the different bonuses available from various credit cards, you can find the best card and bonus to fit your lifestyle and maximize your earnings.
You could try to open several cards at once to get the sign-up bonuses, but this could be seen as “card churning” and could have negative consequences. Some card issuers have strict eligibility rules for welcome offers, and in the process, you could temporarily damage your credit with multiple credit applications.
For example, the Chase 5/24 rule states that if you’ve opened five credit cards in the past 24 months, you will likely not be eligible to open a new Chase credit card. The issuer intends to use the rule to limit the number of “churners” who sign up for credit cards with the sole intention of earning a sign-up bonus.
Ask the experts: Should I continually look to apply for new cards, so that I can keep earning sign-up bonuses?
Sign-up bonuses are fabulous. They enable you to earn cash back, points, or miles after you hit the minimum spend. However, many credit card companies have rules in place that prevent you from earning the bonus each time you open a new account with them. Check the issuer’s restrictions before you keep opening new credit card accounts.
Still, even with an attractive bonus, you should only pursue the credit cards you need and will use. After all, every card you have must be managed, so if you have too many, you may unnecessarily complicate your life!
There’s nothing wrong with opening a new account to earn a bonus, but keep in mind two factors that can negatively impact your credit score. First, frequent hard pulls of your credit report, which are required as part of a new account application process, may lower your score. Second, having too many accounts with a short length of credit history, may also have a negative effect. For these reasons, it’s typically not a good idea to constantly open new lines of credit. Opening one or two new lines per year is usually fine, but take care to pay off balances in full every month so that you don’t negate the benefit of the sign-up bonuses by paying high interest rates on revolving balances.
Sign-up bonuses are a great benefit of some new credit cards, but you’ll want to be strategic about how often you’re applying for new cards just to get the big bonus points. Opening new lines of credit does affect your credit score, so apply wisely — especially if you’re considering applying for a large line of credit like a mortgage where your score plays an important factor. Many banks have also instituted rules about frequent bonus earning. You may not be able to get a bonus more than once in a lifetime, or within a lengthy time period, on a specific card, so you’ll want to check these rules first. It’s not bad to have multiple cards, but it’s important to consider your short and longer term earning plan before you start applying.
We use primary sources to support our work. Bankrate’s authors, reporters and editors are subject-matter experts who thoroughly fact-check editorial content to ensure the information you’re reading is accurate, timely and relevant.
Brendan Dyer holds a Master of Fine Arts in Journalism from Western Connecticut State University and worked previously as a content editor for Regional News Network, a hyper-local…
Courtney Mihocik is an editor at Bankrate Credit Cards and CreditCards.com specializing in credit card news and personal finance advice. Previously, she led insurance content at…
* See the online application for details about terms and conditions for these offers. Every reasonable effort has been made to maintain accurate information. However all credit card information is presented without warranty. After you click on the offer you desire you will be directed to the credit card issuer's web site where you can review the terms and conditions for your selected offer.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, is accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the bank’s website for the most current information.