Nerdwallet Best Cash Back Credit Cards: Top Picks for Maximum Savings in 2025
Cashback credit cards are a popular choice for consumers looking to maximize their savings on everyday purchases. These cards offer a percentage of the amount spent back as rewards, which can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposits, or even gift cards. With numerous options available, selecting the right cashback credit card can be overwhelming. This guide highlights the best cashback credit cards in 2025, as recommended by NerdWallet, to help you make an informed decision.
Cashback cards come in various forms, including flat-rate cards that offer a fixed percentage on all purchases and tiered cards that provide higher rewards in specific categories like groceries, gas, or dining.
In addition to cashback rewards, many cards offer sign-up bonuses, introductory APR periods, and other perks such as travel insurance or purchase protection. However, it's essential to consider annual fees, interest rates, and other terms before applying. This article provides a detailed comparison of the top cashback credit cards, helping you find the best fit for your needs.
Cashback credit cards are designed to reward users for their everyday spending. These cards typically offer a percentage of the purchase amount back as rewards, which can be redeemed in various ways. The best cashback cards provide high reward rates, low fees, and additional benefits that enhance the overall value. Below, we explore the top cashback credit cards available in 2025, their features, and how they compare to one another.
Types of Cashback Credit Cards
Cashback credit cards can be broadly categorized into three types: flat-rate, tiered, and rotating bonus category cards. Flat-rate cards offer a fixed percentage on all purchases, making them ideal for those who prefer simplicity. Tiered cards provide higher rewards in specific categories, such as groceries or gas, and are suitable for users with consistent spending patterns. Rotating bonus category cards offer elevated rewards in categories that change quarterly, requiring more active management but potentially higher rewards.
Top Cashback Credit Cards in 2025
Here are some of the best cashback credit cards recommended by NerdWallet for 2025:
- Chase Freedom Unlimited®: This card offers a flat 1.5% cashback on all purchases, with no annual fee. It also includes a sign-up bonus and an introductory APR period.
- Citi® Double Cash Card: With this card, users earn 1% cashback when they make a purchase and an additional 1% when they pay it off, effectively offering 2% cashback on all spending.
- Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: This card provides 6% cashback on U.S. supermarket purchases (up to $6,000 per year), 3% on gas and transit, and 1% on other purchases. It does have an annual fee, but the high reward rates can offset this cost for heavy spenders.
Comparison Table of Top Cashback Credit Cards
| Card Name | Reward Rate | Annual Fee | Sign-Up Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Freedom Unlimited® | 1.5% on all purchases | $0 | $200 after spending $500 in first 3 months |
| Citi® Double Cash Card | 2% on all purchases (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay) | $0 | None |
| Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | 6% on U.S. supermarkets, 3% on gas and transit, 1% on other purchases | $95 | $250 after spending $1,000 in first 3 months |
How to Choose the Right Cashback Card
Selecting the right cashback credit card depends on your spending habits and financial goals. If you spend evenly across categories, a flat-rate card like the Citi® Double Cash Card may be the best choice. For those who spend heavily in specific areas, such as groceries or gas, a tiered card like the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express could offer more value. Always consider the annual fee and whether the rewards outweigh the cost.
Additional Benefits to Consider
Many cashback credit cards come with additional perks, such as purchase protection, extended warranties, and travel insurance. These benefits can add significant value, especially for frequent travelers or big-ticket shoppers. Some cards also offer introductory 0% APR periods, which can be useful for financing large purchases or consolidating debt.
For more information on cashback credit cards, visit NerdWallet or Credit Karma .
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