If you're living in the United States and want to earn some extra money while spending on everyday purchases, cashback credit cards are your best bet. These cards offer rewards in the form of cash returns for spending in categories like groceries, gas, dining, and online shopping. But with hundreds of options, which ones should you choose? In this post, we’ll help you find the best cashback credit cards in the USA for 2025.
Why Choose a Cashback Credit Card?
Cashback credit cards are simple. Every time you make a purchase, you get a small percentage back as a reward. This money can be redeemed for statement credits, gift cards, or even direct deposits. Unlike travel rewards or points, cashback is straightforward and flexible.
Top 5 Best Cashback Credit Cards in USA (2025)
1. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
- Welcome Bonus: $200 after spending $500 in the first 3 months
- Cashback: 5% on travel, 3% on dining & drugstores, 1.5% on everything else
- Annual Fee: $0
This card is ideal for those who want a mix of high-category cashback with unlimited 1.5% on all purchases. It’s great for everyday spending and travel rewards.
2. Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Welcome Offer: $250 statement credit after $3,000 spend in 6 months
- Cashback: 6% on groceries (up to $6,000/year), 6% on streaming, 3% on transit & gas, 1% on other purchases
- Annual Fee: $95 (waived for the first year)
This is perfect for families who spend a lot on groceries and streaming services. The 6% category is one of the highest available.
3. Citi® Double Cash Card
- Cashback: 2% on all purchases (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay)
- Annual Fee: $0
This card is extremely simple and rewarding. No rotating categories or spending limits. Just flat 2% cashback on everything you buy and pay off.
4. Discover it® Cash Back
- Intro Offer: Cashback Match at end of the first year (no limit)
- Cashback: 5% on rotating categories (up to $1,500 per quarter), 1% on all other purchases
- Annual Fee: $0
Discover offers great value for those who can track quarterly categories. Bonus: your cashback gets doubled at the end of your first year!
5. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
- Welcome Bonus: $200 cash rewards after $500 spend in 3 months
- Cashback: Unlimited 2% on all purchases
- Annual Fee: $0
If you want a no-nonsense flat-rate cashback card, this one offers solid value with unlimited 2% back and no annual fees.
How to Choose the Right Cashback Card for You?
Here are a few tips before choosing the right card:
- Spending Habits: Choose a card that rewards your most frequent expenses (e.g., groceries, gas, dining).
- Annual Fee: Make sure your rewards offset any annual fee charged by the card.
- Bonus Offers: Welcome bonuses can give a great head start if you meet spending requirements.
- Redemption Options: Some cards offer better redemption flexibility (e.g., statement credit, cash deposit).
Tips to Maximize Your Cashback
- Use multiple cards to optimize rewards in different categories.
- Set up autopay to avoid interest and maximize your profit.
- Track category activations, especially with rotating bonus cards like Discover.
- Redeem cashback regularly to avoid expiration of rewards.
Conclusion
Cashback credit cards are a great way to save while you spend. Whether you prefer flat-rate cards like Citi® Double Cash or category-based rewards like Blue Cash Preferred®, there’s a perfect card for your lifestyle. Compare features, fees, and cashback structures to get the most out of every dollar you spend in 2025.
Did you find this list helpful? Let us know which card you're planning to apply for!