Using the right credit card can earn you valuable rewards on dining out, take-out orders or food delivery purchases. Here are our picks for the best dining rewards credit cards.

Best for everyday cash back: Chase Freedom Unlimited®

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Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

3.6 out of 5

2033 reviews

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Here’s why: With the Chase Freedom Unlimited®, you get 3% Cash Back rewards on restaurant purchases, including takeout and eligible food delivery services.

You’ll also get 5% back on travel bookings made through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back at drugstores and 1.5% on all other purchases. The annual fee is $0.

Best for a relaxing night at home: U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card

Here’s why: The U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card offers four Altitude Rewards points for every $1 spent on takeout and food delivery as well as dining at restaurants on up to $2,000 each quarter (then one point per $1 spent).

Additionally, you’ll earn two points per $1 spent on grocery store purchases, on streaming services and at gas stations and EV charging stations. All other eligible purchases earn one point per $1. Combined with a $15 annual streaming credit, you’ll have the makings for some great nights in. 

The card has an annual fee of $0.

Best for dining credits: American Express® Gold Card

Here’s why: The American Express® Gold Card offers up to $10 in monthly statement credits when you enroll and pay with the card at partners including Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory and Five Guys. 

You can also earn …

• Up to $7 in monthly statement credits at U.S. Dunkin’ locations (enrollment required)
• Up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year when you dine at U.S. Resy restaurants (enrollment required) 
• Up to $10 in Uber Cash each month, which you can use by selecting your American Express card as the payment method on Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S.

In addition to the credits, the card offers four Membership Rewards® Points per $1 spent on dining purchases, which includes takeout and delivery services in the U.S. (on up to $50,000 per year, then one point per $1 spent). Purchases outside of bonus categories earn one point per $1 spent.

The card has a $325 annual fee, so consider whether you’ll get more value out of the card than the fee before applying.

See if you have an offer for the American Express® Gold Card on Credit Karma (you must be logged in to see this offer).

Best for DoorDash: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Here’s why: The Chase Sapphire Reserve® provides a complimentary 12-month DashPass membership when you activate by Dec. 31, 2027, which entitles you to free delivery and reduced service fees on eligible DoorDash orders.

The card also offers three Ultimate Rewards® points for every $1 spent on dining (including takeout and food delivery). After earning the card’s $300 annual travel credit, you’ll get four points per $1 spent on flights and hotels booked direct. All other purchases earn one point per $1.

Before applying, consider whether the card’s benefits outweigh the substantial $795 annual fee.

See if you have an offer for the Chase Sapphire Reserve® on Credit Karma (you must be logged in to see this offer).

Best for Uber Eats: Platinum Card® from American Express

Here’s why: The Platinum Card® from American Express offers up to $200 in Uber Cash annually, good for Uber rides and Uber Eats orders when you add the card to your Uber account and use it for payment.

As a premium travel card, it also provides access to world-class airport lounges, a $200 airline fee credit (enrollment required) and complimentary elite status at Hilton and Marriott hotels (enrollment required).

With a $895 annual fee, this card may be a good fit if your travel and lifestyle purchases help offset the cost.

See if you have an offer for the Platinum Card® from American Express  on Credit Karma (you must be logged in to see this offer).

The recently enacted One Big Beautiful Bill has significantly updated the tax code, altering the calculus for taxpayers deciding between the standard deduction and itemized deductions on their tax returns.

The new law not only affects traditional itemized expenses but also creates several new tax deductions that can be claimed by both people who take the standard deduction and those who itemize.

The standard deduction is a fixed amount set by the IRS that lowers your taxable income based on your filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.). Itemized deductions are a list of qualifying expenses — like home mortgage interest and charitable donations — that you can use to reduce your taxable income instead.

While these provisions apply to federal tax returns for individuals, the One Big Beautiful Bill also introduced changes that impact businesses. Deductions for businesses are calculated separately.  

We’ll provide a more detailed overview of both the standard deduction and itemized deductions as we outline how to determine which one might work best for your financial situation.

• Standard deduction vs. itemized deductions: How they work
• How the One Big Beautiful Bill could affect your deductions
• New tax deductions for itemizers and non-itemizers alike

Standard deduction vs. itemized deductions: How they work

To decide between the standard and itemized deduction, start by comparing your total eligible tax write-offs to the standard deduction for your filing status. The option that results in a larger deduction will maximize your tax savings.

Standard deduction

Claiming the standard deduction is easier because you don’t have to keep track of expenses. For taxes on your 2025 income, the standard deduction is …

• $15,750 for taxpayers filing as single or married filing separately
• $23,625 for head of household filers
• $31,500 for taxpayers filing as married filing jointly

Itemized deductions

To itemize your deductions, you’ll likely want to track and document specific expenses throughout the year by saving receipts, bank statements and other records. 

After adding up all of your qualifying expenses, you’ll need to complete and file Schedule A (Form 1040) to see if your total exceeds the standard deduction for your filing status. If it does, itemizing could lead to a lower tax bill.

Itemized deductions that haven’t changed for tax year 2025 include …

• Mortgage interest: You can deduct home mortgage interest on up to $750,000 of that debt.
• Medical expenses: You may deduct out-of-pocket medical and dental expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.
• Charitable contributions: You can deduct cash and property donations made to qualified charitable organizations, typically up to 60% of your adjusted gross income.

How the One Big Beautiful Bill could affect your deductions

The One Big Beautiful Bill introduces key tax code changes that may affect your decision on whether to take the standard deduction or to itemize.

While the new tax law made many provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent, including the larger standard deduction, it also made a number of changes. For example, the new tax law temporarily offers a more generous deduction for state and local taxes.

Increase in the SALT deduction cap

The State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction allows taxpayers who itemize to subtract certain taxes — such as property, income or sales taxes — paid to state and local governments from their federal taxable income.

Since 2018, this deduction has been limited to a combined total of $10,000 ($5,000 if married filing separately).

For tax years 2025 through 2029, the new law …

• Raises the cap to $40,000 for taxpayers with a Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) under $500,000 ($250,000 for those married filing separately).
• Gradually phases out the cap for taxpayers with a MAGI over $500,000, reducing it by 30% for every dollar their income exceeds the threshold until it reaches the original $10,000 limit.
• Adjusts the cap and income threshold annually by 1% to account for inflation.

New tax deductions for itemizers and non-itemizers alike

The One Big Beautiful Bill introduced several new deductions for tax years 2025 through 2028 that you can claim whether you take the standard deduction or itemize. 

Additional senior deduction

Taxpayers ages 65 and older can claim an additional deduction of $6,000. For married couples filing jointly, the maximum deduction is $12,000 if both people qualify.

Eligibility: This deduction is phased out for single filers with a MAGI over $75,000 and for joint filers with a MAGI over $150,000. 

Tip income

Eligible workers can deduct up to $25,000 in qualified tips. 

Eligibility: The deduction begins to phase out for single filers with a Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) over $150,000 and for joint filers with a MAGI over $300,000.

Overtime pay

Workers who receive qualified overtime pay can deduct up to $12,500 ($25,000 for joint filers). 

Eligibility: The deduction begins to phase out for single filers with a MAGI over $150,000 and for joint filers with a MAGI over $300,000.

New car loan interest

A deduction of up to $10,000 is available for interest paid on a loan for a new car assembled in the U.S. Used vehicles are not eligible for this new deduction.

Eligibility: This deduction phases out for single filers with a MAGI over $100,000 and for joint filers with a MAGI over $200,000.

Next steps

Deciding whether to itemize or take the standard deduction is often a simple comparison, but the best choice depends on your personal situation.

A good first step is to create a digital or physical folder to collect and organize all of your documents for potential tax write-offs throughout the year.

As you track your deductible expenses, like medical bills or charitable donations, you can compare your running total to the standard deduction amount for your filing status. 

This proactive approach can help you determine which option will lead to the biggest tax savings.A free online tool like TurboTax’s Tax Refund Calculator can also help you run the numbers to estimate your tax refund or what you may owe.

Best for most grocery shopping: Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Here’s why: The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express offers an outstanding 6% cash back on up to $6,000 you spend each year on eligible purchases at U.S. supermarkets, then 1%.

You’ll also get 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming services, 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations and on transit, and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

The card has a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

Best for Whole Foods and Amazon shoppers: Amazon Prime Visa

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Amazon Prime Visa

Amazon Prime Visa

3.6 out of 5

399 reviews

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Here’s why: The Amazon Prime Visa offers an unlimited 5% cash back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market for Amazon Prime members.

The card, which has a $0 annual fee, also offers 5% back on purchases made through Chase Travel, 2% back at restaurants, gas stations and on local transit and commuting, and 1% back on everything else.

Best for no annual fee: Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

Here’s why: The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express can help you save money on groceries without paying an annual fee.  

You’ll earn 3% cash back on up to $6,000 each year in eligible purchases at U.S. supermarkets, then 1%. 

The card also offers 3% back at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 in eligible purchases a year (then 1%), 3% back at U.S. online retailers on up to $6,000 in eligible purchases a year (then 1%) and 1% cash back on everything else.

Best for students: Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card for Students

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Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card for Students

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card for Students

3.0 out of 5

10 reviews

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Here’s why: The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card for Students offers an automatic 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs.

You’ll also earn 3% cash back in a category that you choose each month. You’ll get the 2% and 3% bonus rates on your first $2,500 in combined quarterly spending, then 1%. You’ll get an unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

The available 3% categories include gas, online shopping, dining, travel and drug stores.

This card comes with a $0 annual fee.

Best for using grocery rewards on travel: American Express® Gold Card

Here’s why: The American Express® Gold Card can help you maximize your rewards on food-related purchases, including groceries.  

You’ll earn four Membership Rewards® points per $1 spent at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per year (then one point) and four points per $1 at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S., on up to $50,000 per year (then one point).

You’ll also get three points for every $1 spent on flights booked directly with the airline or through amextravel.com and two points for every $1 on prepaid hotels booked through amextravel.com. All other purchases earn one point for every $1 spent. 

The card has an annual fee of $325, so make sure you’ll get enough value from everything this card has to offer before applying.

Best for Target groceries: Target Circle™️ Card

Here’s why: The Target Circle™ Card offers a 5% discount on most in-store purchases, including groceries. This hefty discount also applies to online orders, deliveries and pickups.

You can combine the card’s 5% discount with rewards offered by Target Circle, the retailer’s free loyalty program that offers access to deals that will be automatically applied at checkout.

The Target Circle™ Card has no annual fee.

Best for Costco members: Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

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Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

3.0 out of 5

301 reviews

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Here’s why: You can save money on bulk grocery purchases with the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi.

The $0-annual-fee card offers 2% cash back on Costco purchases, including groceries. 

You’ll also get 5% cash back on gas at Costco gas stations and 4% back on gas and EV charging at other gas stations on up to $7,000 in combined spending a year, then 1% back. Additionally, the card offers 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases.

Best for simple cash back: Citi Double Cash® Card — $500 minimum limit

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Citi Double Cash® Card

Citi Double Cash® Card

2.8 out of 5

1456 reviews

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Here’s why:  The Citi Double Cash® Card has a minimum credit limit of $500, but you may be able to get a significantly higher limit based on factors like your income and payment history.

Regardless of your approved limit, the $0-annual-fee card offers straightforward and valuable rewards: 2% cash back on all purchases — 1% when you use the card and another 1% when you pay your bill.

Best for bonus cash back: Chase Freedom Unlimited® — $500 minimum limit

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Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

3.6 out of 5

2033 reviews

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Here’s why: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® has a $500 minimum credit limit, but the limit is at least $5,000 if you’re approved for the Visa Signature® version of the card.

The card offers 5% back on travel booked through Chase Travel℠, 3% back on dining at restaurants and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% on all other purchases.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® has a $0 annual fee. 

Best for premium travel: Chase Sapphire Reserve® — $10,000 minimum limit

Here’s why: The Chase Sapphire Reserve® comes with a high minimum credit limit of $10,000, plus tons of valuable perks.  

With a large sign-up bonus and elevated rewards on travel and dining, this card is ideal for frequent travelers. Benefits include a $300 annual travel credit and airport lounge access.

With an annual fee of $795, you’ll want to make sure you can take advantage of this card’s suite of perks before you apply.

Best for entry-level travel: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card — $5,000 minimum limit

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Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

4.2 out of 5

1008 reviews

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Here’s why:  Along with impressive rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card has a $5,000 minimum credit line. 

This card comes with a big welcome bonus, a generous rewards program, annual credits and anniversary bonus points.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card has an annual fee of $95.

Best for rebuilding credit: U.S. Bank Cash+® Secured Visa® Card — $300 to $5,000 limit

Here’s why: With the U.S. Bank Cash+® Secured Visa® Card, you can earn up to 5% cash back on purchases while building or rebuilding your credit.

To open the card, you’ll need to make a refundable deposit between $300 and $5,000 to a U.S. Bank secured savings account. You’ll then get a credit line equal to your deposit.

With enrollment each quarter, you’ll get up to 5% cash back on purchases in eligible categories that you choose.

This card has a $0 annual fee.

Best for students: Discover it® Student Cash Back — $500 minimum limit

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Discover it® Student Cash Back

Discover it® Student Cash Back

5.0 out of 5

6 reviews

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Here’s why: Students who qualify for the Discover it® Student Cash Back can get a minimum credit limit of $500 — more than enough to start building a positive credit history. 

The card offers 5% back on up to $1,500 spent on purchases (then 1%) in quarterly rotating categories that must be activated. All other purchases earn 1% back.

The card charges a $0 annual fee.

A balance transfer card can consolidate multiple debts into one payment, potentially accelerating your debt payoff and reducing the amount of interest you pay. Our guide to the best balance transfer cards can help you find one that matches your financial goals.

Best for people who might forget to pay back in time: Citi Simplicity® Card

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Citi Simplicity® Card

Citi Simplicity® Card

2.1 out of 5

531 reviews

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Here’s why: The Citi Simplicity® Card has an 0% introductory APR for 21 months on balance transfers and for the first 12 months on purchases from date of account opening (you may see different offers on Credit Karma), plus no late fees or penalty APR for late payments.

To get the promotional rate, you’ll need to complete any balance transfers within four months of opening your account. The card has a balance transfer fee: Intro fee 3% of each transfer ($5 minimum) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, 5% of each transfer ($5 minimum).

After the intro periods, you’ll be charged a variable APR of 18.24% - 28.99% for purchases and balance transfers.

Best for a long 0% intro APR: Wells Fargo Reflect® Card

Here’s why: The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card offers a lengthy intro APR period — 21 months from account opening — for balance transfers and purchases.

The 0% intro APR applies to purchases as well as balance transfers made within 120 days from the day you open your account. Once the intro period ends, the card’s ongoing APR for both balance transfers and purchases jumps to a variable 17.24%, 23.74%, 28.99%.

The balance transfer fee is 5% (minimum $5) of the total balance transferred.

Best for a long 0% intro APR: BankAmericard® credit card

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BankAmericard® credit card

BankAmericard® credit card

2.4 out of 5

235 reviews

From cardholders in the last year

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Here’s why: The BankAmericard® credit card gives you a 0% introductory APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases as well as for balance transfers made in the first 60 days after opening your account.

Both APRs then rise to a variable 15.49% to 25.49%. The card charges a balance transfer fee: 3% of the amount of each transaction during the first 60 days. After that, the fee is 4%.

Best for time to transfer your balances: Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card

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Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card

Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card

1.9 out of 5

418 reviews

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Here’s why: With the Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card, you’ll have four months from account opening to complete any balance transfers to get the 0% intro APR for 21 months.

The card has a balance transfer fee of 5% (minimum $5) of each transfer. After the intro period, the variable APR will be 17.24% - 27.99%.  

You’ll also get a 0% intro APR on purchases for the first 12 months from account opening. After that, the variable APR is 17.24% - 27.99%.

Best for simple cash back: Citi Double Cash® Card

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Citi Double Cash® Card

Citi Double Cash® Card

2.8 out of 5

1456 reviews

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Here’s why: For straightforward cash back along with a solid intro APR offer on balance transfers, the Citi Double Cash® Card is worth considering.

You’ll get a 0% intro APR for 18 months from the date of account opening on balance transfers completed within four months of opening your account. After the intro period, the variable APR will be 18.24% - 28.24%. The card has a balance transfer fee: Intro fee 3% of each transfer ($5 minimum) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, 5% of each transfer ($5 minimum).

The Citi Double Cash® Card also offers a flat 2% cash back on every purchase you make — 1% back when you make the purchase and then another 1% back when you pay it off. 

If you have an American Express cash back credit card, you need to understand Reward Dollars to get the most out of your card.

Below, learn how to access and redeem your American Express Reward Dollars for statement credits and eligible Amazon.com purchases.

Redeem for statement credit

If you want to maximize the flexibility of your Reward Dollars, you can apply your accumulated rewards toward your current statement balance to reduce the amount you owe. 

Follow these steps to apply your statement credit:

• Log into your American Express account.
• Click on “Use Reward Dollars.”
• Enter the amount of Reward Dollars you’d like to apply against your next statement balance.

American Express says the statement credit will usually appear within three days. It’s also important to note that the statement credit will not apply to the “minimum payment due” portion of your balance — you’re responsible for paying that amount even if you have enough rewards to cover it. 

Redeem for Amazon.com purchases

You can also apply your American Express Reward Dollars to eligible purchases at Amazon.com. 

To use your rewards at Amazon, you’ll first need to link your eligible American Express card to your Amazon.com account. 

Once your card is linked, you’ll see your available rewards balance during checkout and have the option to apply your Reward Dollars to your purchase. There is no minimum redemption amount, and your rewards are worth the same as when you redeem them for a statement credit. 

Next steps

Whether you’re redeeming for statement credits or Amazon.com purchases, using your Reward Dollars from American Express is a fairly straightforward process. Plus, as long as your account remains open and in good standing, your Reward Dollars won’t expire.

While cash back cards from American Express offer plenty of value, you may find they have some gaps you’d like to fill. For instance, if you like to travel, you may want to add another American Express card to earn Membership Rewards® for redemptions on flights, hotels and vacation packages.

Your Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers plenty of value. But to unlock the full potential of this card, be sure you’re taking advantage of all its benefits.

With three distinct 3% cash back categories and potentially valuable credits, this card can help you earn meaningful value at a $0 annual fee. Read on to explore the best benefits.

• Earn the welcome bonus
• Learn the spending categories … and their limits
• Use the monthly Disney Bundle credit
• Consider the monthly Home Chef credit
• Take advantage of the 0% intro APR for big purchases

Earn the welcome bonus

The best way to start maximizing your earnings within your first few months of card ownership is to qualify for the welcome bonus.

Currently, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers a $200 statement credit when you spend $2,000 on eligible purchases in the first 6 months after your account opens. But you might have been offered a different bonus, depending on when and how you applied.

Regardless of the bonus offer you received, this statement credit can help you get great value for your spending.

Learn the spending categories … and their limits

Spending on the card’s bonus categories is the quickest way to rack up rewards dollars. 

The card currently offers:

• 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 in eligible purchases per year in purchases (then 1%) 
• 3% cash back on up to $6,000 in eligible purchases each year in purchases at U.S. gas stations (after that, 1% back)
• 3% cash back on up to on up to $6,000 in eligible purchases each year on U.S. online retail purchases (after that, 1% back)
• 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases

These rewards rates can help you earn real value from your spending, but keep in mind that they come with some limitations. 

In addition to the annual spending caps in certain categories (applied per calendar year), you’ll want to watch out for which purchases are included in each category. 

For instance, “U.S. supermarkets” does not include warehouse clubs and superstores like Target and Walmart, and “U.S. online retail purchases” won’t include everything you buy online. 

Use the monthly Disney Bundle credit

If you’re looking to save on the costs of streaming, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express can help you cover it. 

The card offers a $7 monthly statement credit (up to $84 annually) for a subscription purchase, including eligible bundle subscriptions, at Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+. To qualify, you need to enroll and purchase any monthly or annual subscription through the official U.S. website for any of the three streaming services. Your purchase will not qualify for a statement credit if you purchase your subscription as a bundle with cable services or through a third-party device or digital platform (unless the device or platform redirects to the official website).

If you already have a Disney Bundle subscription, this benefit provides clear value. And if you don’t, this credit might be a reason to take another look at this subscription package.

Consider the monthly Home Chef credit

If you’re interested in meal kits, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers a $15 monthly statement credit on subscription purchases from Home Chef (up to $180 per year). Enrollment is required to qualify and is subject to auto-renewal. 

Just keep in mind that this monthly credit will likely only cover some of the cost of your Home Chef order.

Take advantage of the 0% intro APR for big purchases

The card offers a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months after account opening. But make sure to try to pay off your purchases and transfers before the intro APR expires, or you’ll be charged a variable regular APR of 19.99% - 28.99% on both.

Balance transfers must be requested within 60 days of account opening to qualify for the intro rate, and there’s also balance transfer fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

While the balance transfer offer could be helpful for those carrying debt on other cards, we recommend that cardholders using the card for other benefits try to stick to the 0% intro purchase APR offer. In general, it’s a good idea not to use the same card for both new purchases and managing existing debt — juggling both balances can get complicated, and you could end up in more debt than when you started.

Next steps

Your Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express comes with other benefits, including purchase protection and secondary car rental loss and damage insurance. But the perks we’ve called out above are most likely to help you maximize the card’s value in your first few months of card ownership. Eventually, as you use the card more, you might find it has some gaps you’d like to fill. For example, if you like to travel, you may want to add another American Express card to gain the ability to redeem rewards for airfare, hotel stays and more.

If you’re dealing with debt after your 0% balance transfer APR offer ends, it might feel like an overwhelming problem. But there are options that can help.

While transferring your high-interest debt to another credit card with lower rates can be a smart tactic, there are other debt consolidation strategies you might want to consider. Here are some options.

• Transfer your balance to a new 0% APR card
• Apply for a personal loan
• Find a credit counselor
• Reach out to friends or family

Transfer your balance to a new 0% APR card

When one 0% balance transfer APR ends, you might be able to find a new card with a similar offer to manage leftover debt.

If you found your 0% APR offer useful and want to do another balance transfer, there might be options available. Here’s what to do:

• Make sure you’re eligible: Many 0% APR offers don’t apply if you’re transferring your balance from another account with that issuer. Check the fine print to see if your new card allows you to transfer at that desired rate.
• Check the fees: Depending on the amount you want to transfer, the cost of your balance transfer fee might be greater than the amount you’d save in interest payments.
• Make a plan for repayment: Balance transfers are easier to manage when you have a clear plan to pay off your debt. Consider how much you’ll need to pay, and create a budget to help.

Apply for a personal loan

A personal loan can consolidate your debts into a single payment, often with a lower interest rate than your credit cards. Here’s what to do:

• Compare interest rates: Shopping around with multiple lenders can help you save money on your loan. 
• Evaluate loan terms: Look for loans with term lengths that match your ability to repay.
• Understand fees: Even if your interest rate is lower than what you’ll find from a credit card, additional fees can cost you. Look out for origination fees and other add-ons that might apply.

Find a credit counselor

Working with a reputable credit counseling agency can help you manage your debt more effectively. Take these steps:

• Research agencies: Ensure the organization is reputable and certified. A good option will send you free information before you explain anything about your situation, and they won’t promise you too much.
• Understand the plan: Before choosing an option, get a clear picture of how the agency will help manage your debts. A legitimate agency will tailor your plan to your unique situation.
• Review potential fees: Be aware of any charges for the services provided. A good credit counselor will make all the costs clear upfront.

Reach out to friends or family

Borrowing money from someone you know can provide a low-interest solution to your debt. But think through all the possible consequences for your relationship. 

• Agree on terms: Clearly document all loan terms to avoid future misunderstandings. You’re still making a financial agreement, even if it’s not with a formal lender.
• Discuss repayment plans: Develop a solid plan for repayment that both parties agree on. That way, you’ll all know what’s expected of each other.

Consider the relationship: Money can complicate a relationship even when everything proceeds as planned. Before coming to an agreement, consider if the benefits of the loan are worth that potential impact.

This offer is no longer available on our site: Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

Whether you’re looking to save on baggage fees, access premium lounges or earn free flights, our guide to the best travel cards on the market can help you find one that matches your lifestyle and financial goals.

Best for simple rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

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Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

4.3 out of 5

73 reviews

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Here’s why: With its straightforward rewards program and annual fee of $95, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card helps travelers get great value without a lot of extra effort.

You’ll earn two miles for every $1 you spend on purchases, plus five miles per $1 spent on hotels, vacation rentals and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel.

Best for premium rewards: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Here’s why: The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the most valuable rewards cards out there, offering extensive perks like a generous travel credit and access to airport lounges around the world.

This card’s annual travel credit of up to $300 can be used for a wide range of travel expenses, including taxi fares, campground fees and bridge tolls. The credit is automatically applied when you make eligible travel-related purchases.

The card has a $795 annual fee, so make sure you’ll get enough value from the perks and rewards before applying.

Best for luxury perks: Platinum Card® from American Express

Here’s why: The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a wealth of travel and lifestyle benefits that make it a great choice for travelers seeking extra comfort.

The $895 annual fee is hefty, but will get you access to some of the best airport lounges around the world, including The Centurion® Lounge network. You’ll also be pampered at certain hotels with room upgrades, noon check-in, late check-out, and credits for spa treatments, resort activities and dining (when available).

Best for entry-level travel: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

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Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

4.2 out of 5

1008 reviews

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Here’s why: If you’re looking to boost your travel rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card delivers excellent benefits for a modest annual fee of $95.

You’ll earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases during the first 3 months after you open your account.

What really sets the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card apart is the ability to transfer your points to a handful of Chase’s hotel and airline partners, where that bonus could be worth more. 

Best for budget travel: Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

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Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

3.5 out of 5

14 reviews

From cardholders in the last year

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Here’s why: The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card is a good option for frequent travelers looking to get their money’s worth out of a travel card.

You’ll earn two points for every $1 you spend on travel and dining and 1.5 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.

If you’re on a budget, keep in mind that the card comes with a $95 annual fee — but it’s offset each year by the $100 airline incidental statement credit that you can use to pay for things like seat upgrades, lounge access, baggage fees and in-flight purchases.

Best for hotels: Hilton Honors American Express Card

Here’s why: The Hilton Honors American Express Card is a great way to earn Hilton rewards with a $0 annual fee.

The card offers a sizable welcome bonus: 80,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases during the first 6 months from account opening.

You’ll also earn seven points for every $1 you spend on eligible purchases at Hilton, five points for every $1 spent at U.S. restaurants, U.S. gas stations and U.S. supermarkets and three points per $1 on all other purchases.

Best for no annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

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Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

3.1 out of 5

133 reviews

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Here’s why: Few flexible travel cards offer as much value for a $0 annual fee as the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card.

The card offers 25,000 online bonus points (worth $250 in statement credit toward travel or dining purchases) after spending $1,000 on purchases during the first 90 days after account opening.

You’ll also earn 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases. You can redeem points for a range of travel-related purchases or for a statement credit to cover the cost of those purchases.

Best for airlines: The New United℠ Explorer Card

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The New United℠ Explorer Card

The New United℠ Explorer Card

3.7 out of 5

114 reviews

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Here’s why: The New United℠ Explorer Card offers useful perks like free checked bags, priority boarding and two United Club℠ lounge passes per year. 

You can also earn two miles for every $1 spent on purchases with United Airlines and on hotels and dining as well as one mile for $1 spent on all other purchases.

The card has an annual fee of $0 intro, then $150 after first year.

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers a lot of potential value to new cardholders, but you’ll need to know how to make the most of its perks and rewards.

To start earning back your annual fee of $95, you’ll want to take advantage of this card’s generous sign-up bonus and travel benefits. But you need to be aware of how to qualify for and activate your perks to fully benefit.

• Earn the sign-up bonus
• Start booking travel through Capital One
• Apply for TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry
• Use the $50 hotel experience credit

1. Earn the sign-up bonus

The best way to maximize the value of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card in your first few months of card ownership is to earn the sign-up bonus.

Currently, you earn a bonus of 75,000 miles after spending at least $4,000 on eligible purchases in the first 3 months after opening the account. But you might have qualified for a different bonus depending on how and when you applied.

Those current bonus miles are worth $750 on airfare or hotels when redeemed through Capital One Travel, but you might get even more value from your bonus if you transfer to one of Capital One’s partner programs. 

Make sure to check available redemptions and to research Credit Karma’s estimated point values before deciding how to use your rewards.

2. Start booking travel through Capital One

Capital One rewards you for booking your trips and accommodations through its dedicated travel portal. 

When you book through Capital One Travel, you’ll earn 5 miles per $1 on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars.

Plus, you’ll earn 2 miles for $1 from all other purchases made with the card. 

When it’s time to redeem your points for travel, you might be able to maximize your value by transferring your points to one of Capital One’s transfer partners. For purchases, though, Capital One Travel is likely the best option.

3. Apply for TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card provides a statement credit of up to $120 every four years to cover the application fee for TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry. These programs are designed to get you through airport security more quickly. 

Choosing the right program for your needs is straightforward. TSA PreCheck speeds up the security checks at U.S. airports. Global Entry provides the same benefit while also helping you to get faster U.S. Customs clearance when entering the country.

If you haven’t signed up for one of these programs, be aware that you must complete the necessary application process to use these benefits. While your credit card covers the cost of the application with a statement credit, it doesn’t speed the processing time of your application.

4. Use the $50 hotel experience credit

The $50 hotel experience credit included with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card effectively offsets over half of the card’s $95 annual fee.

When you book a hotel stay through Capital One’s Lifestyle Collection, you can redeem the credit at checkout for such things as dining, drinks at the bar or other activities. Keep in mind that amenities vary by each property and are subject to availability.

While this benefit comes with meaningful value, keep in mind that it’s limited only to Lifestyle Collection properties. Depending on available rates, it might save you more money in the long run to book at another hotel not included in the collection.

Next steps

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card comes with additional benefits, like complimentary Hertz Five Star rental car status, but the perks highlighted above are most likely to deliver value during the early stages of your card membership.
Once you start using your card, you might find it has a few gaps. For example, if you’re looking to maximize your rewards balance for redemptions, you may want to add another Capital One card to improve on any non-travel rewards rates you get from the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card. If you combine your rewards right, you might end up with more miles to redeem for your next travel booking.

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express offers plenty of value for your spending, but you’ll have to know its details to reap all the benefits.

You can start earning extra value for your spending right away thanks to the $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. But after that first year, you might want to know all the ways to start earning rewards that can cover that cost.

• Earn the welcome bonus
• Learn the spending categories … and their limits
• Get a streaming credit
• Consider the 0% intro APR for big purchases

Earn the welcome bonus

You can jump-start your cash back earnings in the first months of card ownership by making sure you qualify for the welcome bonus. 

Currently, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express comes with a statement credit worth $250 if you spend $3,000 on eligible purchases during the first 6 months from your account opening. But you might have been offered a different bonus, depending on when and how you applied.

Regardless of what you were offered, that bonus could be worth more than a year of the card’s annual fee by itself.

Learn the spending categories … and their limits

If you want to maximize the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, your first few months with the card are a great time to start building up your rewards balance.

Besides the welcome bonus, spending on the card’s bonus categories is the quickest way to rack up rewards dollars. The card currently offers:

• 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in eligible purchases (then 1%). Keep in mind that warehouse clubs and superstores like Target and Walmart are excluded.

• 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, including popular services like Netflix, Hulu, Spotify, Apple Music, ESPN+ and Kindle Unlimited.

• 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations

• 3% cash back on eligible transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more)

• 1% cash back on other purchases

These rewards rates make the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express one of our favorite cash back cards, but the categories come with limitations. 

If you want to maximize rewards value, keep in mind that you’ll earn just 1% on U.S. grocery purchases after you hit the $6,000 annual spending cap. And while the rewards rate on streaming subscriptions covers many of the most popular apps, it might not cover everything you use. If you want to make sure your service is covered, check with American Express.

Get a streaming credit

If you’re looking to save on the costs of streaming, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express can help you cover it. 

The card offers a $10 monthly statement credit on subscriptions, which include Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+. To qualify, you need to enroll and use your Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express on an auto-renewing subscription. 

While the monthly credit may not cover the full cost of subscription, it’s a strong value for existing subscribers, and a possible reason for people who’ve been considering these streaming services to start subscribing. 

Consider the 0% intro APR for big purchases

If you’re planning to make a big purchase and need time to pay it off, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express could also help you save money on interest charges.

The card offers a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 months after account opening. But make sure to try to pay off your purchases and transfers before the intro APR expires, or you’ll be charged a variable regular APR of 19.99% - 28.99% on both.

Balance transfers must be requested within 60 days of account opening to qualify for the intro rate, and there’s also balance transfer fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

While the balance transfer offer could be helpful for those carrying debt on other cards, we recommend that cardholders using the card for other benefits try to stick to the 0% intro purchase APR offer. In general, it’s a good idea not to use the same card for both new purchases and managing existing debt — juggling both balances can get complicated, and you could end up in more debt than when you started.

Next steps

Your Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express comes with other benefits, like purchase protection and return protection. But the perks we’ve called out above are most likely to help you find value early in your card membership.

Once you start using your card more often, you might find it has some gaps you’d like to fill. For example, if you’re looking to maximize your rewards balance for redemptions, you may want to add another American Express card to improve on any rewards rates you get from this card.

This offer is no longer available on our site: Citi Custom Cash® Card

While no single credit card is perfect for everyone, certain cards offer standout benefits that might better suit your needs. Whether you’re aiming to earn travel rewards, get cash back on everyday spending or decrease your debt, our list of the best credit cards for travel rewards, cash back and balance transfers can help you find one that fits your lifestyle and financial goals.

Best for premium travel perks: Platinum Card® from American Express

Here’s why: In addition to exclusive airport lounge access, the Platinum Card® from American Express offers a wealth of travel and lifestyle benefits that make it a great choice for frequent travelers. You’ll earn …

• 5 points per $1 on flights booked directly through airlines or the American Express travel portal (on up to $500,000 spent per calendar year, then 1 point per $1)
• 5 points per $1 on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel
• 1 point per $1 on all other eligible purchases

The card comes with a hefty $895 annual fee, so consider whether you’ll get enough value from the benefits and potential rewards before applying.

Best for budget-conscious travelers: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

From our partner

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

4.2 out of 5

1008 reviews

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Here’s why: If you’re looking to boost your travel rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card delivers excellent benefits for a modest annual fee of $95.

You’ll earn five points per $1 spent on travel booked through Chase Travel and two points per $1 on all other travel purchases with the card.

You’ll also earn three points per $1 on dining purchases, three points per $1 on online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs), three points per $1 on select streaming services and one point per $1 for all other purchases.

Best for simple travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

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Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

4.3 out of 5

73 reviews

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Here’s why: With its straightforward rewards program and annual fee of $95, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card helps travelers to get great value from their purchases without a lot of extra effort.

You’ll earn two miles for every $1 you spend on purchases, plus five miles per $1 spent on hotels, vacation rentals and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel.

Best for simple cash back: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Here’s why: The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is a good option for people who appreciate the simplicity of using a single card to earn rewards on every purchase.

Every purchase you make with the card earns a flat 2% cash back, regardless of the spending category. With an annual fee of $0, this card is a solid choice for everyday spending.

Best for cash back on dining and entertainment: Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

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Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

4.1 out of 5

100 reviews

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Here’s why: The Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card is an excellent option if you regularly spend on dining, entertainment and groceries and want rewards without a $0 annual fee.

Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and groceries. You’ll also get 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases and 5% back when booking hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars through Capital One Travel. For all other purchases, you’ll get 1% cash back.

Best for flexible cash back: Citi Custom Cash® Card

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Citi Custom Cash® Card

Citi Custom Cash® Card

2.4 out of 5

290 reviews

From cardholders in the last year

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Here’s why: Without much effort, you can earn robust rewards on your top eligible spending category each month with the Citi Custom Cash® Card, which comes with an annual fee of $0.

You’ll earn 5% cash back on whichever eligible spending category was your highest during your monthly billing period — on up to the first $500 spent. Eligible categories for the 5% bonus include restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, drugstores, home improvement stores, selected travel and transit, gyms and entertainment. After you’ve hit the spending cap, you’ll earn unlimited 1% cash back on purchases in your bonus category and all other purchases.

Best for paying down debt: Wells Fargo Reflect® Card

Here’s why: With a long introductory 0% APR offer on balance transfers, the Wells Fargo Reflect® Card could be a great way to save money on interest as you pay off card debt.

This card comes with 0% intro APR for 21 months months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers made within 120 days from account opening.  Keep in mind that the fee for a balance transfer is 5% (minimum $5) of the total balance transferred. Plus, after the intro period ends, the card’s APR for both balance transfers and purchases rises to a variable 17.24%, 23.74%, 28.99%.

This card has an annual fee of $0.