The Best Credit Cards for People with Excellent Credit
If you have an excellent credit score (750-850), you can find some of the best credit card offers with low rates and stellar introductory offers. Below are our favorite credit cards for people with excellent credit.
Discover It® Cash Back Credit Card
The Discover It® is our top cashback credit card for people with excellent credit, especially when it comes to the introductory offer. Discover will automatically match all the cashback you've earned at the end of your first year. There’s no limit to how much is matched.
Everyday spenders looking to maximize their cash back and pay no annual fee.
Cashback Match®
$0
11.99% - 22.99% variable
0% for 14 Months
- Cashback Match® introductory offer
- Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases each quarter, including grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and online shopping
- Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically
- Use your rewards at Amazon.com checkout
- No annual fee
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Credit Card
Chase Ultimate Rewards® points are some of the most valuable credit card points in existence. With the Chase Sapphire Preferred® introductory offer, you’ll receive 100,000 ultimate rewards points after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months.
Frequent travelers who don’t mind the annual fee and can meet the spending requirements to redeem points for airfare, hotels, cruises, car rentals.
100,000 points
$95
15.99% - 22.99% variable
N/A
- Introductory offer of 100,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of opening your account
- 3X points on dining and online grocery purchases
- 2X points on all other travel
- 1X points per dollar spent on all other purchases
- Ultimate Rewards® points carry 25% more value when they’re redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- 5X points on Lyft rides
- 5X points on Peloton equipment
- Complimentary DoorPass from DoorDash
Capital One VentureOne Credit Card
Most of the best travel rewards credit cards feature an annual fee, but not the Capital One VentureOne Credit Card. Through the card's introductory welcome offer, you can earn 20,000 bonus miles after you spend $500 in the first three months. Plus, the card offers a handful of other valuable travel benefits.
Everyday shoppers who put most purchases on a credit card to reap serious travel rewards.
20,000 bonus miles
$0
14.99% - 24.99%
0% on purchases for 12 months
- Earn 20,000 bonus miles after spending $500 in the first three months
- 1.25X miles on all purchases
- Travel accident insurance
- Auto rental collision damage waiver
- 15+ travel loyalty partner programs
- No foreign transaction fees
- Redeem rewards with PayPal
- No annual fee.
The Best Credit Cards for People with Good Credit
A good credit score (670-749) can grant eligibility to certain credit cards with major rewards for everyday spending. Below are our favorite credit cards for those with good credit.
Blue Cash Everyday® Credit Card from American Express
For everyday purchases, the Blue Cash Everyday® card offers a solid amount of cash back and no annual fee. This makes it a go-to for many families.
Frequent shoppers who want to be rewarded with cash for purchases and who regularly pay off their credit cards each month (to avoid the high regular APR).
$150 statement credit
$0
13.99% - 23.99% variable
0% for 15 months
- Earn a $150 statement credit after spending $2,000 in purchases within the first 6 months
- 3% cash back at US supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1% after)
- 2% cash back at US gas stations and select US department stores
- 1% back on other purchases
- Intro APR of 0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
- No annual fee
Discover it® Miles
The Discover it® Miles card is a travel credit card that rewards you in airline miles. Your rewards never expire, you can earn an unlimited number of miles, and there’s no annual fee, which is why it’s great for people with good credit.
Annual domestic travelers who can take advantage of the travel rewards earned from everyday purchases.
Discover Mile Match
$0
11.99% - 22.99% variable
0% for 14 months
- Discover will automatically match all of the miles you've earned at the end of your first year
- Earn unlimited 1.5x miles for every dollar spent on all purchases
- No annual fee
- No blackout travel dates
- Freeze It on/off switch for your account
- Use rewards at Amazon.com
Discover it® Chrome
The Discover it® Chrome offers 2% cash back rewards for gas and restaurant purchases up to $1,000 each quarter and 1% cash back on all other purchases. If you’re someone who identifies as a foodie or has a long commute, this might be your perfect cash back rewards credit card.
This credit card rewards commuters and those who dine out frequently.
Cashback Match®
$0
11.99% - 22.99% variable
0% for 14 months
- Introductory Cashback Match<sup>®</sup> offer, meaning that Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year. There's no limit to how much is matched.
- Earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 in combined purchases) each quarter
- Cash rewards never expire
- No annual fee
The Best Credit Cards for People with Fair or Average Credit
If you have fair credit (580-669) you still have a variety of credit card options that can help you build your credit worthiness. You may even be able to qualify for a credit card that offers member benefits. Below are our favorite credit cards for people with a fair or average credit score.
Credit One Bank® Platinum Rewards Visa
This credit card offers 5% cash back for the first $5,000 spent on everyday purchases, making it an ideal card for everyday spenders looking to continue building their credit score.
Everyday spenders who can afford an annual fee, won’t carry a balance from month to month, and want cash back rewards while building their credit score.
N/A
$95
23.99% variable
N/A
- Get 5% cash back rewards on the first $5,000 of eligible gas, grocery, internet, cable, satellite TV, and mobile phone service purchases each year
- 1% cash back rewards on all other eligible purchases
- Zero fraud liability protects you from unauthorized charges
Indigo® Platinum Mastercard®
While this credit card doesn’t have rewards, it does carry benefits for those with a few marks on their financial past. The Indigo® Platinum Mastercard® accepts cardholders with bankruptcy on their credit report and offers a pre-qualification with no impact to your credit score.
Someone who is actively rebuilding their credit after a bankruptcy.
N/A
$0-$99
24.90% fixed
N/A
- Pre-qualification available with no impact to your credit score
- Previous bankruptcy allowed
- Protection from fraud if your card happens to be lost or stolen
- Accepted wherever you see the MasterCard logo
- Annual fee on a sliding scale of $0-$99 (based on credit profile)
Avant Credit Card
The Avant credit card does not require a security deposit and has a low annual fee of $0-59 depending on your credit. If you are on the lower end of the “fair” credit range, this could be a good option if you want to move away from secured credit cards.
An individual who is looking for their first unsecured credit card and wants to strengthen their credit history by using this card responsibly.
N/A
$0-59
24.99-29.99% (variable)
N/A
- No deposit required
- Reports to all three major credit bureaus
- No hidden fees
- Accepted in all states except Colorado, Iowa, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin
- Avant-branded credit products are issued by WebBank (an FDIC member)
The Best Credit Cards for People with Bad Credit
If you have bad credit (300-579), obtaining and responsibly using a credit card can be a great way to improve your credit score.
What Is a Secured Credit Card?
The majority of credit cards available to those with bad credit are secured credit cards, as opposed to “unsecured” (regular) credit cards.
Secured credit cards require a specific cash deposit when opening an account. Generally, this deposit is equal to your credit limit. The deposit takes the risk away from the credit issuer. If you don’t make a payment, they’ll simply take that sum from the deposit.
Discover it® Secured
This card has no annual fee, allows you to build credit with responsible use, and provides a cash back benefit.
The dedicated credit builder who makes everyday purchases on the card and pays off their balance in full each month.
Cashback Match®
$0
22.99% Variable
N/A
- No annual fee
- Reported to the three major credit bureaus
- Automatic reviews starting at 8 months to see whether a transition to an unsecured line of credit is possible
- Earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter)
- Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Introductory offer of a Cashback Match®. This means Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year. There's no limit to how much is matched.
- Get your FICO credit score for free
OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
This secured credit card is rare in that it does not require a credit check to apply. OpenSky states they, “believe in giving an opportunity to everyone” to build credit. If you want to avoid any dings to your credit score, this may be the best secured credit card for you.
First time credit card users or someone with bad credit who wants to build their score with responsible use.
N/A
$35
17.39% (variable)
N/A
- No credit check necessary to apply.
- Low regular APR of 17.39% (variable).
- You choose your deposit amount (minimum of $200).
- OpenSky®reports to all 3 major credit bureaus.
Indigo® Mastercard®
Indigo® Mastercard® is an unsecured credit card option for people with bad credit. The annual fee is on a sliding scale (from $0-$99, depending on your credit worthiness), so cardholders with bad credit will likely have the higher annual fee. Nevertheless, this is an opportunity to access and build credit with an unsecured card.
Individuals who can pay the annual fee and are ready to be 100% responsible with credit card use on an unsecured credit line.
N/A
$0-$99
24.90% fixed
N/A
- Indigo® reports to all 3 major credit bureaus.
- Choose your custom card design for free
- Unsecured credit card, no security deposit required
Best Starter or Student Credit Card
Starter and student credit cards are ideal for those at the very beginning of their credit-building journey. Using one of these starter credit cards responsibly can be the perfect way to build credit history and become eligible for credit cards that offer valuable member rewards in the future.
Benefits of a Starter or Student Credit Card
The biggest advantages to starter and student credit cards is the lower interest rates, as well as perks like statement credits for good grades. Credit issuers typically pair low interest rates with low credit lines to help new borrowers avoid credit card debt. The goal is to start building a credit history, not debt.
Discover it® Student Cash Back
With some of the best cash back incentives available to students, the Discover it® Student CashBack offers quarterly rotating 5% cash back categories. Users can also receive Discover’s Cashback Match introductory offer, a $20 statement credit for good grades, and a 0% intro APR. Cash back rewards can’t be matched on other student credit cards, making this our top pick.
Responsible students looking to build their credit throughout college; those who take advantage of cash back rewards on daily purchases.
Cashback Match
$0
12.99% - 21.99% (variable)
0% for 6 months
- Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year. There's no limit to how much is matched.
- Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter (you must activate these rewards each quarter)
- Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Get a $20 statement credit each school year that your GPA is 3.0 or higher (for up to 5 years)
- No annual fee
- No late fee on first late payment
- No APR change for paying late
- 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 12.99% - 21.99% applies
Deserve® Edu Mastercard for Students
If you’re a student who cannot live without Amazon Prime, then this credit card has the perfect perk: Receive one year of Amazon Prime Student after your first purchase with the card. You can also earn 1% unlimited cash back on all purchases, making this one of the best student credit cards out there.
Students (including international students) who regularly use Amazon Prime and could benefit from the free membership while building their credit.
Amazon Prime Subscription
$0
18.74% Variable
N/A
- Receive one year of Amazon Prime Student after your first purchase with your new Deserve® EDU Mastercard
- Earn 1% Cash Back on all purchases with your Deserve® EDU Mastercard
- Cell phone protection up to $600 per claim (up to $1,000 per year)
- No annual fee
- No international transaction fees on purchases abroad
- No Social Security Number required to apply
OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
If you are not a student – but need to start building credit – this could be the best credit card for you. Though OpenSky® Secured Visa<sup>®</sup> card requires a deposit, it does not require a credit check, making it ideal for a first time credit card user.
A first time credit card user who is not a student and wants to begin building their credit history.
N/A
$35
17.39% (variable)
N/A
- No credit check necessary to apply
- Low regular APR of 17.39% (variable)
- You choose your deposit amount (minimum of $200)
- OpenSky® reports to all 3 major credit bureaus
Best No Annual Fee Credit Cards
You can easily find credit cards without annual fees that still offer plenty of rewards.
Benefits of a No Annual Fee Credit Card
Annual fees are pesky and rewards (no matter what type) need to outweigh the annual fee. If you don’t want to pay an annual fee just to have a piece of plastic, then a no-annual fee credit card is exactly what you want.
Our top picks for the best no annual fee credit cards are:
Citi® Double Cash Card
The Citi® Double Cash Card has a $0 annual fee and offers two rounds of cash back rewards with every purchase. Get 1% cash back when you make any purchase and 1% cash back when you pay.
The everyday spender who puts all purchases on one card and pays it off on time each month to reap the second round of cash back benefits.
N/A at this time
$0
13.99% - 23.99% (Variable
0% for 18 months on balance transfers only
- Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% once those purchases are paid for
- To earn cash back, pay the minimum amount on time
- 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months (note: balance transfers do not earn cash back)
- No annual fee
American Airlines AAdvantage MileUpsm Card
The American Airlines AAdvantage MileUpsmcredit card is made for those who love getaways but don’t want the annual fee.
The frequent American Airlines traveler who wants to be rewarded in miles for their purchases.
10,000 bonus miles
$0
15.99% - 24.99% (Variable)
N/A
- Earn 10,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles and receive a $50 statement credit after making $500 in purchases within the first 3 months
- No annual fee
- Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for each $1 spent at grocery stores and on eligible American Airlines purchases
- Earn 1 AAdvantage® mile for every $1 spent on other purchases
- Save 25% on in-flight food and beverage purchases when using your card on American Airlines flights
Best Low-Interest Credit Cards
Low interest credit cards are ideal for those who need to manage a large balance. It’s important to note that even low interest credit cards have variable rates. Obtaining the lowest possible interest rate is determined by your credit worthiness.
Benefits of a Low-Interest Credit Card
If you are paying off a credit card or carrying a monthly balance, you want the lowest possible interest rate. This will save you money in the long run and allow you to pay off debt faster because you’re accruing less interest each month.
Discover It® Cash Back Credit Card
The Discover It® is our top cashback credit card for those with excellent credit, but it also offers interest rates as low as 11.99%. On top of this perk, the Discover It credit card has a 14 month 0% APR for both new account holders and balance transfers.
Cardholders who plan to carry a balance for a period of time and work to pay it off.
Cashback Match®
$0
11.99% - 22.99% variable
0% for 14 Months (also applies to balance transfers)
- 0% APR for balance transfers and new account holders for 14 months
- Cashback Match® introductory offer - Discover will automatically match all of the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year
- Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases each quarter. This includes grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and online shopping.
- Automatically earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Use your rewards at Amazon.com checkout
- No annual fee
Citi Rewards+℠ Card
The Citi Rewards+℠ credit card offers 0% APR for 15 months for new account holders as well as on balance transfers. This makes it one of the best low interest credit cards in our book.
Cardholders who plan to carry a balance but can pay off the debt within the introductory 0% APR period of 15 months.
20,000 bonus points
$0
13.49% - 23.49% (Variable)
0% intro for 15 months (also applies to balance transfers)
- 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 13.49% - 23.49%, based on your creditworthiness.
- The Citi Rewards+℠ Card is the only credit card that automatically rounds up to the nearest 10 points on every purchase – without a cap
- Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,500 in purchases within 3 months of opening your account (redeemable for $200 in gift cards)
- Earn 2X ThankYou® Points at supermarkets and gas stations for the first $6,000 per year (1X Points thereafter)
- Earn 1X Points on all other purchases
Best Cash Back Credit Cards for 2023
Cash back credit cards are designed for everyday spenders. Get rewarded for the purchases you already make – what could be better than that?
Benefits of a Cash Back Credit Card
The cash back credit card benefits users with cash back on purchases. Some cash back cards offer a flat rate for all purchases while others offer higher cashback opportunities (in various categories) on a quarterly basis.
To get the greatest benefit out of your cash back credit card, you’ll want to find one with general flat rate cash back offers – and higher cash back offers – on the items you already spend the most on. For example, if you have a long commute, choose a cash back credit card that offers higher cash back rate for gas purchases.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
With one of the highest cash back rates for US supermarket purchases (6%), the Blue Cash Preferred also has a generous point bonus for gas purchases. This is a great cashback credit card for families, but make sure the rewards outweigh the $95 dollar annual fee.
A family who spends a good portion of their income in US supermarkets and can afford the $95 annual fee.
up to $400 in statement credits
$95
13.99% to 23.99% (Variable)
0% APR for 12 months
- Earn up to $400 in statement credits: $200 after spending $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 6 months, plus 20% back on Amazon purchases within the first six months (up to $200)
- 6% cash back at US supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%).
- 6% cash back on select US streaming subscriptions
- 3% cash back at US gas stations and on transit (e.g. taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses)
- 1% cash back on other purchases
- 0% APR for 12 months from the date of account opening, followed by a variable rate
- $0 annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee after that
Citi® Double Cash Card
The Citi® Double Cash Card offers two rounds of cash back rewards with every purchase. Get 1% cash back when you make a purchase and 1% cash back when you pay.
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% once you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay (at least) the minimum due on time. 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months. (Note: Balance transfer
N/A at this time
$0
13.99% - 23.99% (Variable)
0% for 18 months on balance transfers only
- Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% once you pay for those purchases
- To earn cash back, pay (at least) the minimum due on time
- 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months (note: Balance transfers do not earn cash back)
- No annual fee
Discover It® Cash Back Credit Card
The Discover It® is our top cashback credit card for those with excellent credit. The introductory offer is a major reason: Discover will automatically match all the cashback you've earned at the end of your first year. Best of all, there’s no limit to how much is matched.
Everyday spenders looking to maximize their cash back and pay no annual fee.
Cashback Match®
$0
11.99% - 22.99% variable
0% for 14 Months
- Cashback Match® introductory offer (Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned by the end of the first year)
- Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases each quarter. This includes grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and online shopping.
- Automatically earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Use your rewards at Amazon.com checkout
- No annual fee
Best Rewards Credit Cards for 2023
Rewards credit cards help you earn points, cash, or miles for purchases you would already be making. The more you spend on a rewards credit card, the more you can benefit from these rewards. That said, it’s always important to spend within your means and avoid credit card debt.
Point Rewards Cards
Many credit cards use a point system to offer you rewards. The typical conversion is 1 point per $1 spent, but depending on the card, this can be higher if you spend on certain purchases like travel or groceries.
Benefits of a Point Rewards Credit Card
Each point rewards card generally offers a perk for redeeming on certain purchases. For example, your points may be worth more when redeemed for travel, rather than redeeming them for statement credit.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Credit Card
Chase Ultimate Rewards® points are some of the most valuable credit card points in existence. The Chase Saphire Preferred® introductory offer of 100,000 ultimate rewards points – after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months – makes this an ideal card for jetsetters.
Frequent travelers who don’t mind the annual fee and can meet the spending requirements to redeem points for airfare, hotels, cruises, and car rentals.
100,000 points
$95
15.99% - 22.99% variable
N/A
- Introductory offer of 100,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of opening your account
- 3X points on dining and online grocery purchases
- 2X points on all other travel
- 1X points per dollar spent on all other purchases
- Ultimate Rewards® points carry 25% more value when they’re redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- 5X points on Lyft rides
- 5X points on Peloton equipment
- Complimentary DoorPass from DoorDash
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® credit card might be a great partner to the Chase Saphire Preferred® credit card since Ultimate Rewards® points can be transferred to Southwest (not the other way around).
This kind of point flexibility is great, but so is the introductory offer of 40,000 Rapid Rewards points and the possibility of the companion pass when you earn 150,000 Rapid Rewards points. If you play it right, you can end up with free flights which is a major reason this tops our list of best point rewards cards.
The frequent traveler who can make targeted purchases on this card to redeem travel rewards points and earn companion passes.
40,000 Rapid Rewards points
$69
15.99% - 22.99% Variable
N/A
- Earn 40,000 points after spending $1,000 on purchases within the first 3 months
- 3,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary.
- 3 points per $1 spent on dining in the first year
- 2 points per $1 spent on Southwest® purchases, as well as Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partner purchases
- 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- $0 for first and second checked bags
- No change fees
- Redeem your points for flights, hotel stays, gift cards, access to events, and more
- Complimentary DoorPass from DoorDash
Bonvoy Bold™ Credit Card
Marriott Bonvoy Bold™ Credit Card is from Chase®, but unlike many of their point rewards cards, this one doesn’t carry an annual fee. If you want to earn unlimited point rewards for Marriott/Bonvoy hotel stays, this is the point rewards credit card for you.
This credit card is best for the frequent traveler who is loyal to a hotel chain or whose company allows business trip stays to be booked on a personal credit card.
30,000 bonus points
$0
15.99% - 22.99% variable
N/A
- No annual fee
- Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after spending $1,000 on purchases within the first 3 months
- Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy™
- 2X Bonvoy points for every $1 spent on other travel purchases (e.g. airfare, taxis, trains)
- 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases
- Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, which qualifies you for Silver Elite Status
- No foreign transaction fees
Gas Rewards Cards
If you have a long commute, the best rewards credit may be one that rewards you for all of your gas purchases.
Benefits of a Gas Rewards Credit Card
Gas rewards credit cards offer a percentage of cash back for all gas station fill ups. It’s as simple as that.
Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
If you want to be rewarded for shopping at Costco and buying gas, the Costco Anywhere Visa® card by Citi is the perfect choice.
The frequent Costco shopper who regularly fills their gas tank.
N/A
$0 (Must have Costco Membership)
15.24% (Variable)
N/A
- 4% cash back on eligible gas for the first $7,000 per year (1% thereafter)
- 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
- 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
- No annual fee with your paid Costco membership
- No foreign transaction fees on purchases
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
While this credit card offers one of the highest cash back rates for grocery shopping, it also has a generous 3% cash back for gas purchases. This is the best gas rewards credit card for those with a long commute (and if the benefits outweigh the $95 annual fee).
A daily commuter who frequently purchases gas and can afford the annual fee.
$400 Statement credit
$95
13.99% to 23.99% (Variable)
0% APR for 12 months
- 3% cash back at US gas stations and on transit (e.g. taxi, rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses)
- Earn up to $400 in statement credits: $200 after spending $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 6 months, plus another 20% back on Amazon.com purchases in the first six months (up to $200)
- 6% cash back at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
- 6% cash back on select US streaming subscriptions
- 3% cash back at US gas stations and on transit (e.g. taxi, rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses, etc.)
- 1% cash back on other purchases.
- 0% APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers from the date of account opening, then a variable rate
- $0 annual fee for the first year, and $95 annual fee
Discover it® chrome
The Discover it® chrome offers 2% cash back rewards for gas and restaurant purchases up to $1,000 each quarter (plus 1% cash back on all other purchases). If you’re a self-described “foodie” or someone with a long commute, this may be your perfect cash back rewards credit card.
This credit card rewards commuters and those who dine out frequently.
Cashback Match®
$0
11.99% - 22.99% variable
0% for 14 months
- Introductory offer of a Cashback Match®means that Discover automatically matches all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year. Plus, there's no limit to how much is matched.
- At gas stations and restaurants, earn 2% cash on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter
- Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Cash rewards never expire
- No annual fee
Best Credit Card Sign-Up Bonuses for 2023
Sign up-bonuses (or introductory offers) can be some of the best perks of a new credit card. When you review a sign-up bonus, look to see if it’s attached to any kind of spending requirement. If it is, be sure that you can meet that spending requirement comfortably and still be able to pay off the credit card within a 0% APR window.
Below are our top picks for the best credit card sign-up bonuses for 2023.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Credit Card
Chase Ultimate Rewards® points are some of the most valuable credit card points in existence. Chase Sapphire Preferred’s introductory offer of 100,000 ultimate rewards points after you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months makes this an ideal sign-up bonus credit card choice.
Frequent travelers who don’t mind the annual fee and can meet the spending requirements to redeem points for airfare, hotels, cruises, and car rentals.
80,000 points
$95
15.99% - 22.99% variable
N/A
- Introductory offer of 100,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of opening your account
- 3X points on dining and online grocery purchases
- 2X points on all other travel
- 1X points per dollar spent on all other purchases
- Ultimate Rewards® points carry 25% more value when they’re redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- 5X points on Lyft rides
- 5X points on Peloton equipment
- Complimentary DoorPass from DoorDash
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Despite the steep annual fee of $550, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card has a series of sign-up bonuses and regular perks that help offset this cost, making this an appealing credit card for the frequent traveler.
The serious traveler who spends serious time in airports, can activate the fee credit for Global Entry or TSA Pre✓®, and plans to meet the spending requirement of $4000 within the first 3 months.
60,000 bonus point (and more)
$550 + $75 for each authorized user
16.99%-23.99% Variable
N/A
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of opening your account ($900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®)
- $300 annual travel credit reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary
- 10X points on hotels, car rentals, and Chase Dining purchased through Chase after earning your $300 travel credit
- 5X points on flights immediately after earning your $300 travel credit
- 3X points on all other travel immediately after earning your $300 travel credit
- 3X points on dining at restaurants
- 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- $0 foreign transaction fees
- 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
- Complimentary enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select, which gives you access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment
- One year complimentary Lyft Pink ($199 minimum value) plus 1-0X points on all Lyft rides through 3/22
- Complimentary DashPass subscription from DoorDash
- 10X points on Peloton equipment, plus $120 back on all-access membership
Citi Rewards+℠ Card
If you don’t want annual fees and aren’t a globetrotter, the Citi Rewards+℠ credit card signup bonus might be a better fit. This credit card offers 0% APR for 15 months, which applies to new account holders and balance transfers. Plus, you can earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,500 within 3 months of opening your account. These points are redeemable for $200 in gift cards.
The everyday spender looking for a $0 annual fee point rewards credit card with an easy-to-meet sign-up bonus requirement.
20,000 bonus points
$0
13.49% - 23.49% (Variable)
0% intro for 15 months (also applies to balance transfers)
- Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,500 in purchases within 3 months of opening your account (redeemable for $200 in gift cards)
- 0% intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 13.49% - 23.49%, based on your creditworthiness.
- The Citi Rewards+℠ Card is the only credit card that automatically rounds up to the nearest 10 points on every purchase (with no cap)
- Earn 2X ThankYou® Points at supermarkets and gas stations for the first $6,000 per year (1X Points thereafter)
- Earn 1X Points on all other purchases
Best Travel Reward Credit Cards for 2023
A travel rewards credit card can help make travel less expensive and get you to your bucket list destinations. Travel reward credit cards can offer everything from free airline miles to complimentary airport lounge passes. Below, we’ve chosen some of the best travel reward credit cards for 2023.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Credit Card
Chase Ultimate Rewards<sup>®</sup> points are some of the most valuable credit card points in existence. They can be transferred to a variety of airline and hotel transfer partners, providing incredible flexibility with travel rewards. The Chase Saphire Preferred® introductory offer of 100,000 ultimate rewards points after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months.
Frequent travelers who don’t mind the annual fee and can meet the spending requirements to redeem points for airfare, hotels, cruises, and car rentals.
100,000 points
$95
15.99% - 22.99% variable
N/A
- Introductory offer of 100,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of opening your account
- 3X points on dining and online grocery purchases
- 2X points on all other travel
- 1X points per dollar spent on all other purchases
- Ultimate Rewards® points carry 25% more value when they’re redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- 5X points on Lyft rides
- 5X points on Peloton equipment
- Complimentary DoorPass from DoorDash
Credit Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees
If you plan to leave the country, you’ll need a credit card without foreign transaction fees. Our zero transaction fee credit card picks also offer other travel bonuses.
American Express® Green Card
The American Express® Green Card has zero foreign transaction fees and is designed for exploring new cities with major rewards for hotel stays, city tours, and restaurants.
The traveler who is a self-proclaimed foodie and plans to explore everything a new city has to offer while using this credit card.
50,000 points
$150
15.99% - 22.99% variable
N/A
- No foreign transaction fees
- Earn 50,000 Membership Rewards®points after spending $2,000 on purchases on your new card within the first 6 months
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards®points on all eligible travel, from subway swipes and window seats to hotel stays and city tours
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards®points at restaurants worldwide
- Receive up to $100 per year in statement credits when you use the American Express®Green Card to pay for your CLEAR® membership at select airports and stadiums across the US. This extends to Permissible Biometric Scanning Technology terms: eye, iris, and fingerprints scanning.
- Use the American Express® Green Card to purchase lounge access through the entire LoungeBuddy network and earn up to $100 in statement credits per calendar year on your LoungeBuddy purchases
- Terms Apply for APR - you must see the website for current offers
- Free Uber Eats pass for one year
Discover it® Miles
The Discover it® Miles card is a travel credit card with no annual fee, no foreign transaction fees, and rewards that come in airline miles. Your rewards never expire and you can earn an unlimited number of miles.
Those who travel once or twice per year and can take advantage of travel rewards earned on everyday purchases.
Discover Mile Match
$0
11.99% - 22.99% variable
0% for 14 months
- No foreign transaction fees
- Unlimited Bonus: Discover automatically matches all the miles you've earned at the end of your first year. For example, if you earn 35,000 miles, that’s 70,000 Miles (or $700 towards travel).
- Earn unlimited 1.5x Miles for every dollar spent on any purchases
- No annual fee
- No blackout travel dates when booking
- Freeze it on/off switch for your acccount
- Use rewards at Amazon.com
Best Airline Credit Cards
Free flights feel a little bit like you won the lottery. With travel reward credit cards, you can make it a regular occurence.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Credit Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred®appears on our list multiple times, but it’s the best credit card for travel (especially when it comes to earning free flights). Transfer your travel rewards points to over ten different airlines, both domestic and international. Get a great head start with the introductory offer of 100,000 Ultimate Rewards Points which you receive after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months
Frequent travelers who don’t mind the annual fee and can meet the spending requirements to redeem points for airfare, hotels, cruises, and car rentals.
100,000 points
$95
15.99% - 22.99% variable
N/A
- Introductory offer of 100,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of opening your account
- 3X points on dining and online grocery purchases
- 2X points on all other travel
- 1X points per dollar spent on all other purchases
- Ultimate Rewards® points carry 25% more value when they’re redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- 5X points on Lyft rides
- 5X points on Peloton equipment
- Complimentary DoorPass from DoorDash
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
If you’re an airline loyalist, the Delta SkyMiles®Gold American Express Card is a great travel rewards credit card that rewards you in airline miles.
Frequent Delta Airline travelers who pay more than $99 in checked bag fees each year.
70,000 miles
$0 for the first year (then $99 after that)
15.74% - 24.74% variable
N/A
- Earn 70,000 bonus miles after spending $2,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 3 months
- Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide and US supermarkets
- Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases
- Your first checked bag is free
- Main cabin 1 priority boarding on Delta flights
- If you spend $10,000 in purchases on your card within a calendar year, receive a $100 Delta Flight Credit
- Enjoy a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99 per year after that
- No foreign transaction fees
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
Want to earn the Southwest companion pass? This credit card could be the ultimate airline rewards option for you. With a low spending requirement of only $1000 in the first three months in order to earn the 40,000 bonus points, this is a great option for tight budgets.
Casual Southwest flyers who don’t make regular credit card purchases and those who want to earn the Southwest Companion pass.
40,000 points
$99
15.99% - 22.99% Variable
N/A
- Earn 40,000 points after you spend $1,000 on purchases within the first 3 months
- 6,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary
- 3 points per $1 spent in first year on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
- 2 points per $1 spent on Southwest® purchases
- 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- No foreign transaction fees
- No change fees
- Redeem your points for flights, hotel stays, gift cards, access to events, and more
Best Hotel Credit Cards
If a predictable and comfortable hotel room is a top travel priority for you, you may want to consider a credit card that rewards you with complimentary hotel stays.
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass<sup>®</sup> Card provides Hilton Gold Elite status. This means free complimentary breakfast and room upgrades based on availability, making it one of our top picks for those who love Hilton hotels.
Semi-frequent guests of Hilton or Hilton properties who do not spend enough to earn Gold Elite status organically (but would still like to benefit from Hilton Rewards).
200,000 points
$95
15.74% - 24.74% variable
N/A
- Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points when you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months of opening your account
- Earn an additional 50,000 points after you spend another $8,000 in first 6 months
- Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for eligible purchases made at a Hilton hotel or resort
- Earn 6X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases at US restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations
- Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your card
- Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status
- Spend $40,000 on eligible purchases within a calendar year and earn Hilton Honors Diamond status through the end of the next calendar year
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ Credit Card
Earn points for free hotel stays at Marriott/Bonvoy chains with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ Credit Card. The points can also be transferred to airline partners, making it a flexible hotel rewards card.
Travelers who stay at Marriott Bonvoy hotels regularly and will use the one free night credit card perk (which more than makes up for the $95 annual fee).
125,000 points
$95
15.99% - 22.99% variable
N/A
- Earn 125,000 Bonus Points and one free night after spending $5,000 on purchases within 3 months of opening your account
- One Free Night Award (valued at up to 35,000 points) every year after your account anniversary
- 17X total Bonvoy points at Marriott: earn 6X Bonvoy points per $1 spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy™, earn 10X points for being a Marriott Bonvoy member, and another 1X points with Silver Elite status (free as a Bonvoy member)
- 2X Bonvoy points for every $1 spent on all other purchases
- Automatic Silver Elite Status for each account anniversary year. Path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each account year
- 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year
- No foreign transaction fees
The World Of Hyatt Credit Card
The World Of Hyatt Credit card offers cardholders a free night’s stay every year. In addition, you can cash in just 5,000 points for a free night stay, making it a highly-rewarding hotel credit card.
Those who are loyal to the Hyatt chain and will stay at least one night per year in their hotels to utilize the free night (and make up for the annual fee).
up to 60,000 points
$95
15.99% - 22.99% Variable
N/A
- Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases within 3 months of opening your account
- Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after spending $6,000 total within 6 months of opening your account
- Earn 1 bonus point per $1 spent elsewhere
- Free nights start at 5,000 points.
- Receive one free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt Hotel or Resort for your Cardmember Anniversary
- Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt Hotel if you spend $15,000 during your Cardmember Anniversary year
- Get automatic World of Hyatt Discount status – and 5 qualifying night credits every year – as long as your account is open
- Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status each time you spend $5,000 on your card
- Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting, as well as on fitness club and gym memberships.
Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards for 2023
When you transfer a balance, do so with the intention of paying it off within a specific period of time. You want to find a balance transfer credit card that offers a 0% APR and minimal fees for the transfer itself.
Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
This credit card offers a seriously long 0% introductory APR period of 18 months for balance transfers, as well as an interest rate as low as 14.74% after the introductory period expires. This – combined with the 5% balance transfer fee – makes it one of the best balance transfer credit cards.
An individual with good-to-excellent credit who would benefit from a significant amount of time to pay off their balance transfer.
0% for 18 months with balance transfer
$0
13.74% - 23.74% variable
0% for 21 months on purchases and balance transfers
- 0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months from date of first transfer. After that, the variable APR is between 13.74% - 23.74%, based on your creditworthiness. All transfers must be completed within the first 4 months.
- 0% Intro APR on purchases for 18 months from the date of opening your account. After that, the variable APR will be 13.74%-23.74%, based on your creditworthiness.
- After your 0% intro purchase APR expires, new purchases and unpaid purchase balances will automatically accrue interest until all balances are paid in full.
- There is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer (whichever is greater).
- The standard variable APR for Citi Flex Plan is 13.74%-23.74%, based on your creditworthiness.
- No annual fee
Citi® Double Cash Card
If you plan to pay off a balance transfer while using a credit card for everyday purchases, the Citi® Double Cash Card may be the right choice for you. It offers two rounds of cash back rewards with every purchase: 1% cash back when making a purchase and 1% cash back when you pay. You also get a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months.
The everyday spender who can afford to pay off their balance transfer in 18 months and pay off any additional purchases every month.
0% intro for 18 months on Balance Transfers
$0
13.99% - 23.99% (Variable)
0% intro for 18 months on Balance Transfers
- Balance transfer offer: 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 13.99% - 23.99%, based on your creditworthiness.
- Balance transfers do not earn cash back
- If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month
- Balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer (whichever is greater)
- Earn 2% on every purchase: unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% when you pay for those purchases
- Pay at least the minimum due on time to earn cash back
- Standard variable APR for Citi Flex Plan is 13.99% - 23.99%, based on your creditworthiness
Blue Cash Everyday® Credit Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Everyday®card offers a $300 statement credit available within the first six months of activating your card.
The everyday spender who will spend $1000 within the first six months to earn the statement credit and purchases often from Amazon.com.
$300 statement credit
$0
13.99%-23.99% Variable
0% for 15 months on purchases
- Earn a $150 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 6 months
- Earn 20% back on Amazon.com purchases in the first 6 months (up to $150)
- 3% cash back at US supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%)
- 2% cash back at US gas stations and select U.S. department stores
- 1% back on other purchases
- No annual fee
Best Business Credit Cards for 2023
No matter how small or large your business, a business credit card can be a great way to earn rewards for business transactions. Business credit card rewards vary and can include cash back, loyalty points, or travel discounts.
Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi
The Costco Anywhere Visa®Business credit card offers major rewards for business owners with a Costco membership, including 2% cash back on all purchases made at Costco or Costco.com. If you stock your office with Costco toilet paper or snacks, this may be the perfect business credit card for you.
Business owners who frequently shop at Costco.
N/A
$0 (Costco Membership required)
15.24% (Variable)
N/A
- 4% cash back on eligible gas for the first $7,000 per year (1% thereafter)
- 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
- 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
- No annual fee with your paid Costco membership
- No foreign transaction fees
CitiBusiness®/AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Mastercard®
If you travel often for business, this business credit has some perks you will want to take advantage of, including 65,000 bonus miles when you spend $4000 within the first 4 months of opening your account.
The business owner who travels frequently for work, or whose employees travel often for work on domestic American Airlines flights.
65,000 miles
$0 for first year ($99 annually after that)
15.99% - 24.99% (Variable)
N/A
- Limited Time Offer: Earn 65,000 American Airlines Advantage® bonus miles after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first 4 months of opening your account.
- First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines flights
- Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles per $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
- Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles per $1 spent on purchases at telecommunications merchants, cable and satellite providers, car rental merchants, and gas stations
- Earn 1 AAdvantage® mile per $1 spent on other purchases
- No foreign transaction Fees
American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
If you own a startup or an expanding business, the American Express Blue Business Cash® credit card could be perfect due to its flexible credit limit and cash back rewards.
The business owner who requires a flexible credit limit due to expansion.
$250 in statement credit
$0
13.24% - 19.24% variable
0% for purchases
- Earn $250 in statement credits after you spend $3,000 in the first 3 months
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases (up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%). Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
- Expand your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power®
- 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate of 13.24% - 19.24%. This rate is based on creditworthiness and other factors (determined when the account is opened).
- No annual fee
Best Visa® Credit Cards for 2023
With its vast network and wide variety of credit cards (with every possible reward type), Visa®makes it easy to find a credit card that works for everyone’s needs. Our top picks offer something for the traveler, the cash back enthusiast, and the new credit card holder.
Best Visa® for the Traveler: Chase Saphire Preferred® Credit Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® introductory offer of 100,000 ultimate rewards points makes this the best Visa for frequent travelers.
Frequent travelers who don’t mind the annual fee and can meet the spending requirements to redeem points for airfare, hotels, cruises, and car rentals.
100,000 points
$95
15.99% - 22.99% variable
N/A
- Introductory offer of 100,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of opening your account
- 3X points on dining and online grocery purchases
- 2X points on all other travel
- 1X points per dollar spent on all other purchases
- Ultimate Rewards® points carry 25% more value when they’re redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- 5X points on Lyft rides
- 5X points on Peloton equipment
- Complimentary DoorPass from DoorDash
Best Cash Back Rewards Visa®: Credit One Bank® Platinum Rewards Visa
This credit card offers 5% cash back for the first $5,000 spent on everyday purchases. It’s a great card for everyday spenders who are looking to build their credit score.
Everyday spenders who can afford an annual fee, won’t carry a balance from month to month, and want to be rewarded in cash back.
N/A
$95
23.99% variable
N/A
- Get 5% cash back rewards on the first $5,000 of eligible gas, grocery, internet, cable, satellite TV, and mobile phone service purchases each year
- 1% cash back rewards on all other eligible purchases
- Zero fraud liability protects you from unauthorized charges
Best Visa® for New Cardholders: OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
This secured Visa credit card is rare in that it doesn’t require a credit check to apply. OpenSky® states they, “believe in giving an opportunity to everyone” to build credit. If you’re looking to avoid any dings to your credit score, this might be the best secured credit card out there.
The first time credit card user or someone with extremely bad credit who wants to build their score with responsible use.
N/A
$35
17.39% (variable)
N/A
- No credit check necessary to apply
- Low regular APR of 17.39% (variable)
- You choose your deposit amount (minimum of $200)
- OpenSky®reports to all 3 major credit bureaus
Best Mastercard® Credit Cards for 2023
With a variety of partnerships with credit card issuers, Mastercard makes it easy to find a credit card that meets your needs. Our top picks offer something for the traveler, the cash back enthusiast, and the new credit card holder.
Best Mastercard for the Traveler: American Airlines AAdvantage MileUp℠ Mastercard®
The American Airlines AAdvantage MileUp℠ credit card is made for those who love getaways but don’t want the annual fee. That’s precisely why we love this Mastercard® for travelers.
10,000 bonus miles
$0
15.99% - 24.99% (Variable)
N/A
- Earn 10,000 American Airlines Advantage® bonus miles and receive a $50 statement credit after making $500 in purchases within the first 3 months
- Earn 2 Advantage® miles for each $1 spent at grocery stores and eligible American Airlines purchases
- Earn 1 Advantage® mile for every $1 spent on other purchases
- Save 25% on inflight food and beverage purchases when you use your card on American Airlines flights
- No annual fee
Best Cash Back Mastercard®: Citi® Double Cash Card
The Citi®Double Cash Mastercard credit card has a $0 annual fee and offers two rounds of cash back rewards with every purchase: Get 1% cash back when you make a purchase and 1% cash back when you pay. This makes it an excellent no annual fee cash back credit card option.
The everyday spender who puts all purchases on one card and pays it off each month to reap the second round of cash back benefits.
N/A at this time
$0
13.99% - 23.99% (Variable)
0% for 18 months on balance transfers only
- Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy (plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases)
- To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time
- 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months (note: balance transfers do not earn cash back)
- No annual fee
Best Mastercard® for New Cardholders: Indigo® Mastercard®
Indigo® Mastercard<sup>®</sup> is an unsecured credit card option for those with bad credit – or no credit at all. The sliding scale annual fee ($0-$99) depends on your credit worthiness, so it’s safe to say new cardholders will likely have the higher annual fee. Nevertheless, this is an excellent opportunity to access and build credit with an unsecured Mastercard®.
The individual who can pay the annual fee and is ready to be 100% responsible with their credit card use on an unsecured credit line.
N/A
$0-$99
24.90% fixed
N/A
- Indigo®reports to all 3 major credit bureaus
- Choose your custom card design for free
- Unsecured credit card, no security deposit required
