Top picks for best 2 percent cash-back credit cards

Research

Nick Ewen Senior editorial director | The Points Guy

By Sky Industry News

Dec 18, 2024

Cash-back credit cards are gaining attention for their simplicity and consistent rewards. A selection of these cards offers a straightforward 2% cash back on all purchases, eliminating the need to track category bonuses or activate special earning rates.

Among the notable options is the Citi Double Cash Card, which provides 2% cash back—1% when you make a purchase and another 1% when you pay it off. "Those searching for a simple cash-back card with no bonus categories to track will love the Citi Double Cash," states The Points Guy. Despite having no annual fee, this card does not offer significant travel protection benefits and charges a 3% foreign transaction fee.

Another option is the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card, which includes cellphone protection as a benefit. This card has no annual fee and offers a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in the first three months. The Points Guy highlights its appeal: "The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is one of the few unlimited 2% cash rewards cards with no annual fee that also comes with a welcome bonus."

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For those less concerned about major issuers, the Synchrony Premier World Mastercard provides 2% cash back without caps or an annual fee but lacks a welcome offer. Its benefits include Lyft credits and Hello Fresh credits.

Small business owners might consider the American Express Blue Business Cash Card, offering 2% cash back up to $50,000 annually. It features automatic monthly statement credits and has no annual fee.

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus is tailored for businesses with high spending needs. It requires substantial spending to unlock its large welcome bonus but offers various benefits such as roadside assistance and extended warranty protection.

Lastly, U.S. Bank customers can explore the U.S. Bank Smartly Visa Signature Card, which offers up to 4% cash back based on savings account balances.

In summary, while some credit cards provide higher rewards in specific categories, these flat-rate options may simplify financial management by consistently offering 2% cash back on every purchase.