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The best cash back credit cards make it possible to get something back for each dollar you spend. But how you earn rewards and redeem cash back varies widely by card.
It always makes sense to earn as much cash back as possible, and there are several ways to do that. Whether you’re in the market for a new card or want to make the most of one you already have, consider these seven tips to help boost your cash back rewards.
1. Choose the right cash back credit card
Start by selecting a credit card that aligns with your spending habits. Whether it’s groceries, dining, or travel, choose a card that rewards you for your most frequent purchases.
For example, some cash back cards earn a flat rewards rate, while others offer boosted rewards in specific categories.
For example, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers 2% cash rewards on purchases. The Citi Custom Cash® Card, on the other hand, offers 5% cash back in your top spending category each billing cycle (up to $500, then 1%) and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Spend time comparing cash back cards based on how they structure their rewards. For example, if you spend a lot at the grocery store, consider a card offering elevated cash back in that category.
2. Earn the welcome bonus
Most cash back credit cards offer a welcome bonus if you spend a certain amount within the first few months of opening the card.
Take advantage of these offers by putting your regular expenses on your new card during the introductory period. By meeting the spending requirements, you can earn a large amount of cash back right from the start. Just be careful you’re not overspending to earn the bonus.
Mark your calendar to know exactly when you need to meet the minimum spending amount and track your purchases to make sure you meet the threshold. Here are some of the best cash-back welcome bonuses available today.
3. Maximize rewards bonus categories
If your cash back credit card offers more rewards in specific categories, you’ll want to ensure you use it for the right purchases.
Some cards may offer bonus rewards on dining, drugstore purchases, travel, groceries, and more. Try to adjust your spending accordingly to earn more rewards.
For example, if your card offers a higher cash back rate on dining, use it to pay for restaurant meals or when ordering takeout.
Some cards, like the Chase Freedom Flex℠, will rotate their bonus categories each quarter. Ensure you pay attention to the bonus categories and take advantage of them.
4. Pair different cash back credit cards together
Consider using multiple cash back credit cards to maximize your rewards potential. You can use different cards for specific categories to earn the highest cash back percentages.
For example, if one card offers higher rewards on groceries and another on gas, use the appropriate card for each purchase. You could also pair a flat-rate cash back card with a rotating bonus category card.
Take the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card and Capital One SavorOne Rewards Credit Card. The Quicksilver Cash offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase and 5% on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One’s online travel portal. The SavorOne card offers 3% cash back on dining out, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery purchases. Plus, you’ll get 1% cash back on all other purchases.
5. Use a cash back app
To supercharge your cash back earnings, utilize a cash back app. These apps partner with specific retailers to offer extra cash back on top of what your card offers. The best cash back apps include Rakuten, Ibotta, Dosh, and Capital One Shopping.
Creating an account is often free, and you’ll earn additional cash back while you shop. The rewards you earn are often separate from your card’s cash back rewards, but you can still use them to offset shopping costs. Before shopping online, check if the retailer is affiliated with the cash back app.
6. Utilize credit card shopping portals
Some credit card issuers have a shopping portal of their own, offering bonus rewards when you buy through their website.
Check if your credit card issuer has a shopping portal and use it when shopping online. You can earn additional cash back or enjoy exclusive discounts while you shop.
The best example is the Chase Ultimate Rewards shopping portal, which lets cardholders with Chase cards like the Chase Freedom Unlimited® and Chase Freedom Flex earn more cash back when they use the portal to shop at participating stores.
Most shopping portals are free, so there’s no reason not to use them if you’re shopping online.
7. Look for special credit card offers
Keep an eye out for special offers or promotions offered by your credit card issuer. These offers may include limited-time cash back bonuses, discounts, or exclusive deals. Programs include Amex Offers, Chase Offers, and Capital One Offers.
Just remember that you often have to add offers to your account ahead of time to qualify. Bonus rewards limits, expiration dates, and other fine print details can apply.
The bottom line
Earning more cash back with a credit card isn’t difficult, but you need to be intentional. Make sure you’re picking the right card and taking advantage of spending categories when you can.
That said, earning rewards won’t be worth it if you carry a balance on your card and pay credit card interest each month. To get the most out of your rewards, you’ll want to use your card for purchases you can afford to pay off in full monthly.
Opinions expressed are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.