Best Rewards Credit Cards in USA in 2024
Introduction

In 2024, rewards credit cards have become an indispensable financial tool for many consumers. By strategically using these cards, you can earn valuable rewards that can be redeemed for travel, cash back, merchandise, and more. However, with so many options available, choosing the best rewards credit card can be overwhelming.

This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the vast landscape of rewards credit cards in the USA and identify the best options for your specific needs and goals. We'll delve into various categories, including cashback rewards, travel rewards, points rewards, and specialty rewards, and provide detailed information on each card's benefits, drawbacks, and eligibility requirements.

Best Overall Rewards Credit Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: This versatile card offers a generous welcome bonus of 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠. It also earns 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x points on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries, and 2x points on all other travel purchases.  

Best Cashback Rewards Credit Card

Citi Double Cash® Card: This no-frills card offers a simple and straightforward 2% cash back on all purchases, making it a great choice for everyday spending. You earn 1% cash back when you buy and another 1% when you pay for those purchases.

Best Travel Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Earn a generous welcome bonus of $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that's equal to $1,000 in travel. Additionally, earn 5x miles on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, and 2x miles per dollar on every other purchase.

Best Points Rewards Credit Card

American Express® Gold Card: This card offers bonus points on dining, groceries, and travel. Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.

Best Specialty Rewards Credit Card

Bilt Mastercard®: If you're a renter, this card allows you to earn points on rent payments and redeem them for travel, dining, or even a down payment on a home.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rewards Credit Card

• Annual Fee: Some cards have annual fees, while others do not. Consider whether the benefits offered by a card with an annual fee justify the cost.
• Welcome Bonus: Many cards offer a welcome bonus for meeting certain spending requirements within a specified period. These bonuses can be a great way to earn extra rewards quickly.
• APR: The annual percentage rate (APR) is the interest rate charged on your credit card balance. Choose a card with a low APR if you anticipate carrying a balance.
• Foreign Transaction Fees: If you travel frequently, consider a card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid additional charges when making purchases abroad.
• Redemption Options: Understand the different ways you can redeem your rewards. Some cards offer flexible redemption options, while others may limit you to specific categories.

Tips for Maximizing Rewards

• Pay Your Balance in Full Each Month: Avoid carrying a balance to prevent accruing interest and eroding your rewards.
• Activate Bonus Categories: If your card offers bonus rewards for spending in specific categories, be sure to activate them to maximize your earnings.
• Take Advantage of Welcome Bonuses: Meet the spending requirements to earn the welcome bonus offered by your card.
• Use Your Card Wisely: Use your rewards credit card for everyday purchases to earn points or miles on your spending.
• Redeem Rewards Strategically: Choose the redemption option that offers the best value for your rewards.

Comparison Table of Top Rewards Credit Cards

Choosing the best rewards credit card for your needs requires careful consideration. By evaluating factors such as annual fees, welcome bonuses, APR, foreign transaction fees, and redemption options, you can find a card that aligns with your spending habits and financial goals. Remember to use your rewards credit card responsibly and maximize your earnings to make the most of this valuable financial tool.