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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: With no annual fee to worry about, the Chase Freedom Unlimited card is a top-tier choice 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 an extra 1.5% cash back on every purchase on up to $20,000 spent in the first year. For example, that extra 1.5% would boost the 5% cash back normally available for travel up to 6.5%.
What to know:
- 5% cash back on travel-related purchases through Chase.
- 3% cash back on dining at restaurants and on drugstore purchases.
- 1.5% cash back on every other purchase.
- No expiration on cash-back rewards.
- 0% introductory APR on purchases for 15 months, then a variable rate of 15.24% to 23.99%.
- No annual fee.
Note: This card has a foreign transaction fee, so plan accordingly for international travel.
Citi Double Cash
Why we like it: We’ve called this “The Best Cash-Back Credit Card for Everyday Use” since it earns 1% cash back on every purchase, then earns another 1% cash back when you pay for those purchases. If you want the peace of mind that you’re earning good cash-back rewards on everything, with no gimmicks or expiration dates, this is your card.
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.
Note: This card offers 18 months of 0% introductory APR on balance transfers.
Blue Cash Preferred 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 spent on supermarket purchases and 3% cash back spent at gas stations in the U.S. Plus, for a limited time, you also earn $300 back in statement credits after you spend $3,000 with the card in the first six months.
What to know:
- 6% cash back on up to $6,000 spent 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 spending at U.S. gas stations and for taxi or rideshare service.
- 1% cash back on other purchases.
- 0% introductory APR on purchases for 12 months. (See rates and fees)
- $0 intro annual fee for first year, then $95. (See rates and fees)
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 balance transfers for the first 21 months. You’ll also get a full 12 months of 0% APR on new purchases.
What to know:
- 0% introductory APR on balance transfers for 21 months, with a balance transfer fee of $5 or 5%, whichever is higher.
- 0% introductory APR on new purchases for 12 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.
See rates and fees for Blue Cash Preferred from American Express.
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