Money Talks News has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Money Talks News and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
The pandemic hasn’t abated, and many people aren’t ready to travel or spend more than necessary. So, it may not seem like a great time for a new credit card.
On the other hand, if you’re a responsible spender, it may be more important than ever to make sure you’re getting the best value out of every dollar.
Whether you’re seeking higher cash back rates or the ability to transfer a balance away from high interest charges while you navigate the twists and turns of 2020, these are some of the best cards available right now.
Chase Freedom Unlimited
Why we like it: The Chase Freedom Unlimited card is a great option for grocery or general cash-back rewards, offering at least 1.5% cash back on every purchase and more in certain categories. You also earn a $ 200 cash back bonus after you spend $ 500 within the first three months.
What to know:
- 5% cash back on up to $ 12,000 at grocery stores in the first year.
- 1.5% cash back on every other purchase.
- No expiration on cash-back rewards.
- No annual fee.
- 0% introductory APR on purchases for 15 months.
Note: This card has a 3% foreign transaction fee, so plan accordingly for international travel.
Citi Double Cash
Why we like it: As the name implies, the Citi Double Cash card gets you cash back coming and going. First, you earn 1% cash back on every purchase, then you earn another 1% cash back when you pay for those purchases.
What to know:
- Get a total of 2% cash back on every purchase.
- No limits or caps on cash back.
- No confusing categories; everything earns cash back.
- No annual fee.
- Get an introductory 18 months of 0% interest on balance transfers.
Note: Balance transfers don’t earn cash back, and this card charges a balance transfer fee of 3% or $ 5, whichever is greater. If you transfer a balance, you’ll need to pay your entire balance monthly to avoid interest on purchases.
Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express
Why we like it: The Blue Cash Preferred Card offers a very strong 6% cash back on the first $ 6,000 per year in supermarket purchases and 3% cash back at gas stations in the U.S. You also earn a $ 250 statement credit after you spend $ 1,0000 within the first three months.
What to know:
- 6% cash back on up to $ 6,000 at U.S. supermarkets per year, and 1% cash back after that amount.
- 6% cash back on certain U.S. streaming subscription services.
- 3% cash back on transit including at U.S. gas stations and for taxi or rideshare service.
- 1% cash back on other purchases.
- $ 95 annual fee.
- 0% introductory APR on purchases for 12 months.
Note: Cash back is redeemed as statement credits.
Citi Diamond Preferred
Why we like it: The Citi Diamond Preferred card is a good choice for people transferring a balance, thanks to the introductory 0% APR on both balance transfers and new purchases for the first 18 months.
What to know:
- 0% introductory APR on balance transfers for 18 months, with a balance transfer fee of $ 5 or 3%, whichever is higher.
- 0% introductory APR on new purchases for 18 months.
- Free access to your FICO Score.
- No annual fee.
Note: This card has a 3% foreign transaction fee, so plan accordingly for international travel.
How to find cheaper car insurance in minutes
Getting a better deal on car insurance doesn’t have to be hard. You can have The Zebra, an insurance comparison site compare quotes in just a few minutes and find you the best rates. Consumers save an average of $ 368 per year, according to the site, so if you’re ready to secure your new rate, get started now.
