Amex vs. Citi Credit Cards: Which Are Best? [2026]

American Express and Citi are both leading credit card issuers with an extensive range of credit card products. Each offers products for individual consumers, small business owners, and large corporations, though the 2 companies offer distinct product lines.

This guide examines specific card types to determine which is the best for each and compares the rewards you can earn from each issuer.

Comparing Amex Membership Rewards and Citi ThankYou Points

Amex’s rewards program is American Express Membership Rewards, which earns Membership Rewards points. Citi’s program is Citi ThankYou, and earns Citi ThankYou Points.

Here are all the ways you can use Amex Membership Rewards points:

• Points transfers with Amex transfer partners
• Eligible flights booked through AmexTravel.com via Pay With Points (up to 35% airline bonus or about 1.53 cents per point, up to 1 million points per calendar year)
• Other flights, hotels, car rentals, and travel booked through AmexTravel.com
• Best Buy purchases
• PayPal transactions
• Gift cards
• Statement credits
• Online shopping
• Amazon.com purchases

Not every redemption offers good value. You get the most value from your points by transferring them to airline and hotel partners to book award travel. This method often yields a value far higher than our valuation of Membership Rewards points of 2.2 cents apiece.

Another great way to use points is to book eligible flights via AmexTravel.com using Pay With Points, which can net you about 1.53 cents per point. The other ways to redeem points are subpar, yielding 1 cent per point or less in value.

Here are all of the ways you can use Citi ThankYou Points:

• Points transfers with airline and hotel partners
• Travel booked through the Citi Travel Center
• Gift cards
• Cash-back
• Shop with Points (online shopping)
• Amazon.com purchases

As with Amex, the best way to use Citi points is to transfer them to travel partners for award travel. Otherwise, you’d only get a maximum of 1 cent per point of value from redemptions such as gift cards and Amazon.com.

Transfer Partnerships

One of the biggest reasons to collect American Express and Citi points is that both can be transferred to airlines and hotels for outsize value when you book amazing travel experiences like Emirates business class, Singapore Airlines first class, Lufthansa first class, and Air France business class.

Each issuer has a set of its own transfer partners, though there’s some overlap, including these partners:

Here’s a look at the partners Amex offers but Citi does not:

These are the transfer partnerships Citi has but Amex doesn’t:

• Accor Live Limitless
• American Airlines AAdvantage
• Etihad Guest
• EVA Air Infinity MileageLands
• Preferred Hotels & Resorts
• Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus
• Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles
• Wyndham Rewards

Based on the transfer partnerships offered, we calculate Amex points (2.2 cents apiece) as significantly more valuable than Citi points (1.6 cents apiece). The range of Amex transfer partners available allows those with Membership Rewards points to book far more flights on more airlines than those with ThankYou Points.

Bottom Line: Amex points are significantly more valuable than Citi points because there are only a few scenarios where Citi points have a better redemption value. These include transfers to Choice Privileges at a 1:1.5 ratio to book certain Preferred Hotels or transfers to Turkish Airlines to book specific award flights on Star Alliance airlines.

Best Overall Travel Rewards Card

Winner: American Express^® Gold Card

BEST FOR DINING

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express^® Gold Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out, and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

American Express^® Gold Card

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out, and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets.

Welcome Offer

You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

As High As 100,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $2,200

Annual Fee

$325

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

With the Amex Gold card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants, up to $50,000 per calendar year, and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x.

There are several other benefits of the Amex Gold card, including monthly dining credits.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x points on prepaid hotels via AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App
• 4x points at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
• 4x points at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter

Cons

• $325 annual fee (rates and fees)
• 4x categories for restaurants and U.S. supermarkets have annual spend caps

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
• 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 US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards^® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards^® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
• Earn 2X Membership Rewards^® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 1X Membership Rewards^® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• Pay It^® lets you tap in the American Express^® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It^® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
• $120 Dining Credit: Earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
• $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants after you pay for eligible purchases with the American Express^® Gold Card. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Enjoy up to $120 in Uber Cash annually with your Gold Card. Just add your Card to your Uber account and you'll get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
• Enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star^® Status benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
• Book two nights or more with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and receive a $100* credit towards eligible charges at over 1,400 upscale hotels worldwide. *Eligible charges vary by property.
• Book your travel through the Amex Travel App™ with added peace of mind – backed by American Express^® service and support. Only for American Express^® Card Members.
• Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $325.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Apply and find out if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer as high as 100,000 points with the Amex Gold card. Welcome offers may vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.

The Amex Gold card is an everyday heavy hitter with a great welcome bonus offer and strong earning potential with up to 5x Membership Rewards points:

• 5x points on prepaid hotels booked via AmexTravel.com
• 4x points at restaurants worldwide (up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1x thereafter)
• 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per calendar year)
• 3x points on airfare booked directly with airlines or via AmexTravel.com
• 2x points on prepaid car rentals and cruises booked via AmexTravel.com

Earning 4x Membership Rewards points is equivalent to an 8.8% return on spending, which is industry-leading.

Also, the Amex Gold card allows you to claim more than $400 in statement credits every year:

• Get up to $120 every year in Uber Cash for Uber rides or Uber Eats orders in the U.S. ($10 per month. You must add your Amex Gold card to your Uber account, but you can use any Amex card for payment).
• Get up to $120 every year in dining credits at participating partners, including Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Buffalo Wild Wings, Wonder, and Five Guys (enrollment required).
• $100 Resy credit: Get a $100 annual statement credit ($50 semiannually), redeemable at any U.S. Resy restaurant and other eligible Resy purchases. Enrollment is required through your Amex account.
• Dunkin’ credit: Get a $85 annual statement credit (up to $7 a month), redeemable at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment is required.

Holding the Amex Gold card allows you to book stays at The Hotel Collection, which offers a $100 hotel credit and room upgrade (subject to availability) on some stays of at least 2 nights.

This card has no preset spending limit*, which is helpful if you need to make large, one-off purchases that a normal credit card might decline.

The card also offers entry-level travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees), and up to 5 authorized users at no additional fee — after that, there is a $35 annual fee per card (rates & fees).

Runner-Up: Citi Strata Premier^® Card

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Citi Strata Premier^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Apply Now(at our partner's secure site)

Citi Strata Premier^® Card

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou^® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.

60,000 Points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$960

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.49% to 27.49% Variable

Why We Like This Card

The Citi Strata Premier^® Card is a great all-around travel rewards card that allows you to earn big rewards on a variety of purchases like air travel, at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and more, along with flexible redemption options, all for a modest annual fee.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through CitiTravel.com
• 3x points on air travel, other hotel purchases, restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and EV charging stations
• $100 annual hotel benefit

Cons

• $95 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou^® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
• Earn 10 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
• Earn 3 Points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% to 27.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The best credit card in Citi’s entire portfolio is the Citi Strata Premier card, which offers numerous bonus categories.

You can earn 10x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through the Citi Travel with Booking.com portal, 3x ThankYou Points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, EV charging stations, air travel, and hotels, and 1x ThankYou Points on other purchases.

Earning 3x ThankYou Points is equivalent to a 4.8% return on spending, which isn’t nearly as impressive as the 8.8% return from the Amex Gold card. But it does cover more bonus categories than the Amex Gold card, including hotels, air travel, and gas stations.

You also get to use a $100 annual hotel savings benefit on a single stay of at least $500, excluding taxes and fees, when booked through Citi Travel.

Additionally, you can use this card to access Citi Entertainment, pay no foreign transaction fees, and add authorized user cards at no additional fee.

Best Overall Business Card

Winner: American Express^® Business Gold Card

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express^® Business Gold Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

American Express^® Business Gold Card

Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).

Welcome Offer

As High As 200,000 points. Find Out Your Offer. You may be eligible for as high as 200,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $15,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

As High As 200,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $4,400

Annual Fee

$375

APR

17.74% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The American Express^® Business Gold Card is excellent at racking up rewards for your business spend.

The card earns a whopping 4x points per $1 in the 2 categories (from a list of 6) that your business spends the most money on each month. With no need to opt-in or preselect your categories, so you can focus on what matters most — running your business.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4x points per dollar spent on your 2 highest purchase categories each month up to $150,000 each calendar year in purchases; categories include:
  • Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
  • U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
  • Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
  • U.S. purchases at gas stations
  • U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
  • Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, plus TV and radio)
• 3x points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card
• Access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection

Cons

• $375 annual fee (rates and fees)
• No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access or elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• As High As 200,000 points. Find Out Your Offer. You may be eligible for as high as 200,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $15,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
• Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx (through 10/01/2026), Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
• Enroll and get up to $300 in statement credits per calendar year on U.S. purchases of ChatGPT Business* on the Business Gold Card. *Subject to auto-renewal.
• Enroll and get up to $150 in statement credits per calendar year for U.S. purchases with Squarespace. Subscription purchases subject to auto-renewal.
• Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards^® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
• The Business Gold Card comes in three metal designs: Gold, Rose Gold and White Gold. Make your selection when you apply on Americanexpress.com.
• Terms Apply

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 17.74% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer as high as 200,000 points with the Amex Business Gold card. Find out your offer. Terms apply.

The Amex Business Gold card is the business version of the Amex Gold card. Although their names are similar, these products are totally different.

This card earns 4x Membership Rewards points on the top 2 categories in which your business spends the most every month (up to $150,000 in combined purchases every calendar year):

• Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
•  U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
• Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
• U.S. purchases at gas stations
• U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
• Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online, TV, radio)

You don’t need to select any bonus categories. Your rewards are automatically chosen by Amex based on where you spend the most every month.

Getting 4x points is worth a return on spending of 8.8%, which means that if you maximized the full $150,000 in combined bonus purchases every year, you’d be flush with 600,000 Amex points, which are worth more than $13,000, by our valuations.

There is no preset spending limit*, access to Pay Over Time, Amex Offers upon enrollment, and no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees). The annual fee for employee cards is $95 for the first 5 cards, then $95 per card thereafter, up to 99 cards (rates & fees).

Runner-Up: The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Welcome Offer

As High As 300,000 points. Find Out Your Offer. You may be eligible for as high as 300,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

As High As 300,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $6,600

Annual Fee

$895

APR

17.74% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Amex Business Platinum Card is a premium travel rewards card tailored for business owners who are frequent travelers with high annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers, like the best airport lounge access at over 1,550 lounges and numerous annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Earn 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on eligible travel purchases like flights, prepaid hotels, and prepaid short-term rentals booked through AmexTravel.com
• Access to over 1,550 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Earn 2x Membership Rewards points on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (on up to $2 million per calendar year)

Cons

• High annual fee of $895 (rates & fees)
• Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• As High As 300,000 points. Find Out Your Offer. You may be eligible for as high as 300,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Learn more.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,550 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card company on the market as of 01/2026.
• See how you can unlock over $4,000 in business and travel value annually after meeting qualifying spend thresholds on the Business Platinum Card. Terms apply.
• Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using the Business Platinum Card^®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• No Preset Spending Limit: The spending limit on the Business Platinum Card is flexible, so unlike a traditional credit card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment and credit history.
• Make the Business Platinum Card^® work even harder for you. Hilton for Business members get up to $200 back per calendar year when you make an eligible purchase at Hilton properties across the globe. Gift cards are not an eligible purchase. Benefit enrollment required.
• Fly like a pro with a $200 Airline Fee Credit. Select one qualifying airline to receive up to $200 back per year on baggage fees and other incidentals.
• Use the Business Platinum Card and get up to $219 back per calendar year on your CLEAR+ Membership (subject to auto-renewal).
• Maximize your time away with Fine Hotels + Resorts through Amex Travel™.
• Enroll and get up to $150 in statement credits on U.S purchases directly with Dell Technologies on the Business Platinum Card and an additional $1,000 statement credit after you spend $5,000 or more on that same Card per calendar year.
• Enroll and get up to $300 in statement credits per calendar year on U.S. purchases of ChatGPT Business* on the Business Platinum Card. *Subject to auto-renewal.
• Enroll and get a $250 statement credit after you spend $600 or more on U.S. purchases directly with Adobe per calendar year on the Business Platinum Card.
• Get up to $90 in statement credits quarterly for purchases with Indeed on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $360 back per year. Enrollment required.
• Get up to $10 in statement credits per month for wireless telephone service purchases made directly with a wireless provider in the U.S. on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $120 back per year. Enrollment required.
• 2X points on purchases at U.S. construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
• 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com
• 1X points on other eligible purchases
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 17.74% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer as high as 300,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum card. Find out your offer. Terms Apply.

The Amex Business Gold card excels in earning rewards, but the Amex Business Platinum card offers the best overall luxury travel benefits.

You can earn up to 5x Membership Rewards points on purchases:

• 5x points for flights, prepaid hotels, and short-term rentals booked via AmexTravel.com
• 2x points in key U.S. business categories and on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else (up to $2 million in purchases every year)
• 1x Membership Rewards points on other purchases

The Amex Business Platinum card offers an impressive list of travel benefits, including numerous annual statement credits, some of which will require enrollment:

• Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which includes Aspire Lounges, Centurion Lounges, 10 visits to Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta the same day) with the ability to unlock unlimited visits through spending, Escape Lounges – The Centurion Studio Partner, some Lufthansa Lounges (access ends October 1, 2026), Plaza Premium Lounges, Priority Pass Lounges, and some Virgin Clubhouses (enrollment required for some of these benefits)
• Access to Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection
• Complimentary Hilton Honors (Gold), Marriott Bonvoy (Gold Elite), and Leaders Club (Sterling) status upon enrollment
• Rental car privileges with Avis, Hertz, and National
• 35% airline bonus when using Pay With Points for eligible flights booked through AmexTravel.com on a preselected qualifying airline (up to 1 million points back per calendar year.)
• Superb travel insurance, including trip interruption and cancellation insurance, baggage insurance, and more
• Up to $200 in airline incidental fee credits
• Up to $200 in Hilton statement credits
• Up to $600 in hotel credits on eligible prepaid bookings via AmexTravel.com
• Up to $219 in CLEAR+ credits
• Up to $1,200 in credits for flights booked online at AmexTravel.com (unlocked with $250,000 card spending in a calendar year to use the following year)
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credits every 4 years

To help you run and operate your business, the Amex Business Platinum card also offers these annual statement credits:

• Up to $1,150 in Dell purchases in the U.S. after qualifying purchases and enrollment
• Up to $360 in Indeed credits upon enrollment
• $250 in Adobe credits after qualifying purchases and enrollment
• Up to $120 in wireless credits upon enrollment
• Up to $300 in Amex Business Platinum ChatGPT Business credits for U.S. purchases (subject to automatic renewal; enrollment required)
• Up to $2,400 in credits for American Express One AP monthly fees (unlocked with $250,000 card spending in a calendar year to use the following year)

It shouldn’t be difficult to get value from this card, including with ancillary perks like purchase protection, extended warranty, cell phone protection, and no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees).

Best Premium Travel Rewards Card

Winner: Platinum Card^® from American Express

BEST LOUNGE CARD

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Amex Platinum card reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Platinum Card^® from American Express

The Amex Platinum card reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and elite status.

Welcome Offer

You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount — all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.

As High as 175,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $3,850

Annual Fee

$895

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, the Platinum Card^® from American Express is a top choice.

The card offers premium perks like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and several annual card credits. The Amex Platinum card is easily worth the annual fee for frequent travelers who use the lounges and travel credits, and hard to justify for those who won’t.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far): Get access to over 1,550 worldwide lounges, including Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5 points per $1 spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5 points per $1 spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com

Cons

• $895 annual fee (rates & fees)
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags).

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
• Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards^® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel^®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts^® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel^® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
• With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 Delta Sky Club visits (subject to visit limitations) when flying on an eligible Delta flight, Priority Pass™ membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges. *As of 01/2026
• $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card^® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card^® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
• $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Experience the latest shows, news and recipes. Get up to $25 in statement credits each month when you use your Platinum Card^® for eligible purchases on Disney+, a Disney+ bundle, ESPN streaming services, Hulu, The New York Times, Paramount+, Peacock, The Wall Street Journal, YouTube Premium, and YouTube TV when you purchase directly from one or more of the providers. Enrollment required.
• $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel^® using the Platinum Card^®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights™ by Resy: Get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card^® to pay for eligible purchases with Resy, including dining purchases at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants. Enrollment required. As a Platinum Card^® Member you have special access to reservations on select nights at participating sought after Resy restaurants in select cities through Platinum Nights™ by Resy. Simply add your Platinum Card^® to your Resy profile to book your reservation.
• $219 CLEAR+ Credit: CLEAR+ helps get you to your gate faster by using your face to verify you are you at 55+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR+ Membership* with up to $219 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR+ with your Platinum Card^®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card^® Account. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
• Start your vacation sooner and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts^® through American Express Travel^®, enjoy noon check-in, when available, and guaranteed 4pm late check-out.
• $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card^® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Get up to a $12.95* statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Platinum Card^®. *Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.
• Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
• $895 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Apply and find out if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of as high as 175,000 points with the Amex Platinum. Welcome offers may vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.

The Amex Platinum card is one of the best travel rewards cards, and you can earn up to 5x Membership Rewards points:

• 5x points on airfare purchased directly with the airline or through AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 on these purchases every calendar year)
• 5x points on prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com
• 1x points on other purchases

With maximum earnings of 5x points, you can secure a return as high as 11% on your spending.

It also has an extensive list of luxury travel benefits:

• Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Access to Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection
• Hotel and rental car elite status upon enrollment
• High-end travel insurance and protections
• Up to $200 in airline fee credits
• Up to $600 in prepaid hotel credits
• Up to $200 in Uber Cash and up to $120 in Uber One credits
• Up to $219 CLEAR+ credit
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit

When you’re not traveling, the Amex Platinum card offers lifestyle benefits, too:

• Up to $300 in lululemon credits
• Up to $300 in digital entertainment credits
• Up to $300 in Equinox credits
• Up to $400 in Resy credits and access to Platinum Nights by Resy
• Up to $155 in Walmart+ credits
• Up to $200 in Oura Ring credits

Most statement credits are annual and enrollment is required for some of the benefits mentioned.

This card has no preset spending limit*, no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees), purchase protection, extended warranty, cell phone protection, and return protection.

Runner-Up: Citi Strata Elite℠ Card

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Citi Strata Elite℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Citi Strata Elite card is Citi's most premium card built for frequent travelers and foodies.

Apply Now(at our partner's secure site)

Citi Strata Elite℠ Card

The Citi Strata Elite card is Citi's most premium card built for frequent travelers and foodies.

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus Points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.

75,000 Points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $1,200

Annual Fee

$595

APR

20.49% to 28.49% Variable

Why We Like This Card

The Citi Strata Elite card is a great option for frequent travelers, foodies, and those who are fans of the Citi ThankYou Rewards ecosystem thanks to its combination of bonus categories, perks, and annual credits.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 12x points on hotels, rental cars, and attractions booked through Citi Travel
• 6x points on airfare through Citi Travel
• 6x points on dining on Citi Nights (Friday and Saturday nights from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.) and 3x points on dining at all other times

Cons

• $595 annual fee
• Boosted dining rewards are limited to 2 nights per week

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus Points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
• Earn 12 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on cititravel.com and 6 Points per $1 spent on Air Travel booked on cititravel.com
• Earn 6 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants including Restaurant Delivery Services on CitiNights℠ purchases, every Friday and Saturday from 6 PM to 6 AM ET. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent any other time
• Earn 1.5 Points per $1 spent on All Other Purchases
• Up to $300 Annual Hotel Benefit: Each calendar year, enjoy up to $300 off a hotel stay of two nights or more when booked through cititravel.com.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.49% to 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The Citi Strata Elite card is a high-end travel rewards card with benefits that earns ThankYou Points according to the following structure:

• 12x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on cititravel.com
• 6x points on air travel booked on cititravel.com
• 6x points at restaurants, including restaurant delivery services, every Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Eastern time, and 3x points any other time
• 1.5x points on all other purchases

The Citi Strata Elite card also has numerous annual statement credits, including a $300 annual hotel benefit, a $200 annual Splurge Credit, and a $200 annual Blacklane credit. You can also get up to a $120 statement credit every 4 years for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

Travel perks are plentiful, too. The card grants access to The Reserve by Citi Travel, Priority Pass lounge access for you and up to 2 guests, 4 American Airlines Admirals Club passes annually, and access to high-end dining experiences with The Supper Club.

However, one of the best features of the Citi Strata Elite card is that it allows cardholders to transfer ThankYou Points to all of Citi’s partners (including American Airlines) at the best rates.

Best Premium Travel Rewards Business Card

Winner: The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

If you’re looking for a premium business card for travel, there’s no better way to go than the Amex Business Platinum card.

You earn up to 5x Membership Rewards points:

• 5x points for flights, prepaid hotels, and short-term rentals booked at AmexTravel.com
• 2x points on purchases in key business categories and on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, up to $2 million in these purchases per year
• 1x points on other purchases

Cardholders also benefit from luxury travel perks and a healthy variety of statement credits.

The Amex Business Platinum card is one of the few cards with no preset spending limit*, which pairs well with purchase protection, extended warranty, return protection, cell phone insurance, and no foreign transaction fees.

Best Card for Cash-Back

Winner: Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express

SPECIAL OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card is great for those who want to earn cash-back with U.S. supermarkets, U.S. streaming subscriptions, transit, and U.S. gas stations.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express

This card is great for those who want to earn cash-back with U.S. supermarkets, U.S. streaming subscriptions, transit, and U.S. gas stations.

Welcome Offer

You may be eligible for as high as $300 cash back after spending $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 6 months. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Cash back is received as Reward Dollars, redeemable for statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout. Terms Apply.

As High As $300 Cash Back. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

As High As $300

Annual Fee

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

APR

19.49%-28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express is a stellar cash-back credit card for those looking to maximize every purchase they make.

With bonus categories like U.S. supermarkets, select U.S. streaming services, U.S. gas stations, and transit purchases, this card rewards you for the items you spend the most on in a big way! For those looking to earn up to 6% cash-back on their purchases, this could be the card for you!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year)
• 6% cash-back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
• 3% cash-back on U.S. gas stations and transit (including rideshares, parking, etc.)

Cons

• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee (rates and fees)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Apply and find out your welcome offer. As High As $300 cash back* after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply, and if approved: 1. Find out your offer amount 2. Accept the Card with your offer 3. Spend $3,000 in 6 months 4. Receive the cash back. *Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed for a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.49%-28.49%.
• Plan It^®: Buy now, pay later with Plan It. Split purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee so you don’t have the pressure of paying all at once. Simply select the purchase in your online account or the American Express^® App to see your plan options. Plus, you’ll still earn rewards on purchases the way you usually do.
• Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in eligible purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) purchases and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.
• Get up to a $10 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred^® Card for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com, or Stream.ESPN.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49%-28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

Rewards Center

Redeem cash-back through your American Express account

The Amex Blue Cash Preferred card gives new qualifying cardmembers a sizable welcome offer bonus, plus up to 6% cash-back, which is exceedingly rare:

• 6% cash-back on select U.S. streaming services
• 6% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%
• 3% cash-back on U.S. gas stations
• 3% cash-back on transit (including rideshares, parking, tolls, trains, buses, and more)
• 1% cash-back on other purchases

With the Amex Blue Cash Preferred card, you can also get secondary car rental loss and damage insurance, return protection, and fraud protection. Plus, authorized users can be added for no additional annual fee (rates & fees).

Runner-Up: Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express

SPECIAL OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This cash-back card offers a capped 3% at U.S. supermarkets, 3% at U.S. gas stations, and 3% on U.S. online retail purchases!

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express

This cash-back card offers a capped 3% at U.S. supermarkets, 3% at U.S. gas stations, and 3% on U.S. online retail purchases!

Welcome Offer

You may be eligible for as high as $200 cash back after spending $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 6 months. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Cash back is received as Reward Dollars, redeemable for statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout. Terms Apply.

As High As $200 Cash Back. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

As High As $200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

19.49%-28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 15 months

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cash-back credit cards, there are dozens of options to choose from. So what sets the Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express apart from the rest?

This card is excellent at earning cash-back on your everyday purchases at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and on U.S. online retail purchases. So if you regularly spend money on everyday purchases, this could be the perfect card to add to your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3% back on purchases at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
• 3% back on purchases at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
• 3% back on purchases on online retail purchases on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.

Cons

• Rewards are not flexible and can only be redeemed for cash-back. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Apply and find out your welcome offer. As High As $200 cash back* after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply, and if approved: 1. Find out your offer amount 2. Accept the Card with your offer 3. Spend $2,000 in 6 months 4. Receive the cash back. *Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed for a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• No Annual Fee.
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.49%-28.49%.
• Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases, 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations, on eligible purchases for each category on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%). Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.
• Get up to a $7 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday^® Card for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com, or Stream.ESPN.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49%-28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 15 months
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

Our runner-up choice is the Amex Blue Cash Everyday card, which is a $0-annual-fee version (rates & fees) of the Amex Blue Cash Preferred card.

There’s an attractive welcome bonus offer on this card, plus up to 3% cash-back on a healthy selection of bonus categories:

• 3% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%
• 3% cash-back at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%
• 3% cash-back on U.S. online retail purchases on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%
• 1% cash-back on other purchases

Also, you’ll get a $7 monthly Disney streaming credit and a $15 monthly credit toward Home Chef, up to a total of $264 in annual credits. Enrollment is required.

Still, the Amex Blue Cash Everyday card has secondary car rental loss and damage insurance, purchase protection, fraud protection, and authorized user cards for no additional annual fee (rates & fees).

Best Business Card for Cash-Back

Winner: The American Express Blue Business Cash^® Card

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The American Express Blue Business Cash^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Take control of your cash-back with the Amex Blue Business Cash card, and earn 2% cash-back on up to $50,000 in purchases each calendar year.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

The American Express Blue Business Cash^® Card

Take control of your cash-back with the Amex Blue Business Cash card, and earn 2% cash-back on up to $50,000 in purchases each calendar year.

Welcome Offer

Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.

$250

UP's Offer Valuation*:

As High As $250

Annual Fee

No annual fee

APR

16.74% - 28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

Looking for a way to keep tabs on your office supply costs and business travel expenses while earning cash-back? Then The American Express Blue Business Cash^® Card could be a good fit.

This card offers expense management solutions that are designed to give companies more control, along with a much clearer picture of their business spending. In doing so, the more you spend, the more cash-back you can earn.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2% cash-back on the first $50,000 of purchases each calendar year, then 1% back thereafter
• No annual fee
• Travel and purchase protection

Cons

• Not ideal for those who spend a lot on a specific category like groceries or gas

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
• 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 16.74% – 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening. APRs will not exceed 29.99%
• Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on the first $50,000 of purchases each calendar year, 1% thereafter. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
• From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power*.
• * The amount you can spend above your credit limit is flexible, so it adapts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors. Just remember, the amount you can spend with Expanded Buying Power is not unlimited.
• No Annual Fee. Terms Apply. Learn More.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 16.74% - 28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

The Amex Blue Business Cash card is our favorite business credit card for cash-back because it earns simple cash-back rewards with very low fees.

There’s a welcome bonus offer for new cardmembers, and you earn 2% cash-back on everyday business purchases (up to $50,000 per calendar year, 1% thereafter). Rewards are automatically credited to your statement each month.

Although the Amex Blue Business Cash card is a credit card, you can use a unique perk called Expanded Buying Power, which gives you the freedom to spend beyond your credit limit to help get business done, although the amount you can spend with Expanded Buying Power is not unlimited.

Other benefits that come with this card include secondary car rental loss and damage insurance, access to the Global Assist hotline, purchase protection, extended warranty, and access to Amex Offers upon enrollment.

Runner-Up: Costco Anywhere Visa^® Business Card by Citi

Costco Anywhere Visa^® Business Card by Citi

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Earn 5% cash-back on Costco gas purchases and 4% cash-back on other gas/EV charging purchases, 3% cash-back at restaurants and travel, 2% cash-back at Costco, and 1% on all other purchases.

All information about Costco Anywhere Visa^® Business Card by Citi has been collected independently by Upgraded Points.

Costco Anywhere Visa^® Business Card by Citi

Earn 5% cash-back on Costco gas purchases and 4% cash-back on other gas/EV charging purchases, 3% cash-back at restaurants and travel, 2% cash-back at Costco, and 1% on all other purchases.

Welcome Offer

None

Annual Fee

$0

APR

18.74% to 26.74% Variable

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5% back on gas at Costco and 4% back on gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
• 3% back on restaurants and eligible travel, including Costco Travel
• 2% back on purchases from Costco and Costco.com

Cons

• You only receive your cash-back rewards once per year
• The 5% and 4% cash-back on gas purchases is limited to up to $7,000 in combined purchases per year

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Discover the only business credit card designed exclusively for Costco members
• 5% cash back on gas at Costco and 4% cash back on other eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
• 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
• 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
• 1% cash back on all other purchases
• No annual fee with your paid Costco membership and enjoy no foreign transaction fees on purchases
• Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, enjoy no foreign transaction fees on purchases
• Receive an annual credit card reward certificate, which is redeemable for cash or merchandise at U.S. Costco warehouses, including Puerto Rico

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 18.74% to 26.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The Costco Anywhere Business card is one of the best cash-back credit cards Citi has to offer, even if you’re making purchases outside of Costco.

Here’s how you earn rewards:

• 5% cash-back on Costco gas purchases and 4% cash-back on other eligible gas and EV charging purchases, up to $7,000 per year, and 1% after that
• 3% cash-back on restaurants worldwide and on eligible travel purchases worldwide
• 2% cash-back on other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
• 1% cash-back on other purchases

You get purchase protection, access to Citi Entertainment, digital wallets, contactless payments, no foreign transaction fees, and a $0 annual fee with your paid Costco membership.

Best Balance Transfer Card

Winner: Citi Double Cash^® Card

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Citi Double Cash^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Great card for the average spender with no specific focus category; worry-free cash-back earning on everything!

Apply Now(at our partner's secure site)

Citi Double Cash^® Card

Great card for the average spender with no specific focus category; worry-free cash-back earning on everything!

Welcome Offer

Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou^® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

$200 cash back

Annual Fee

$0

APR

18.24% to 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Citi Double Cash^® Card has long been one of the top cash-back credit cards on the market, and the card now has the ability to earn Citi ThankYou Points!

This means that cardholders of the Double Cash card will now earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. Cash back is earned in the form of ThankYou Points. This means each billing cycle, you will earn 1 ThankYou point per $1 spent on purchases and an additional ThankYou point for every $1 paid on your purchase balance as long as there is a corresponding balance in your Purchase Tracker.

Citi has turned the Double Cash card into a top choice for those who are looking for an everyday, no-fuss credit card.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Uncapped 2% for every $1 spent (1% when you buy and another 1% when you pay)
• Flexible redemption options
• No annual fee

Cons

• No bonus categories
• 3% foreign transaction fees

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou^® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
• Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked with Citi Travel.
• Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.24% – 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness.
• Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
• If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
• There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 18.24% to 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of the U.S. dollar amount of each purchase

Rewards Center

Citi ThankYou Rewards

One of the best balance transfer credit cards available is the Citi Double Cash card. It offers impressive cash-back rewards, the ability to convert your points to transferable rewards, and a great balance transfer promotion.

Sometimes there’s a limited-time welcome bonus offer that includes cash-back. Normally, however, it only includes a promotional balance transfer APR and balance transfer fee.

The balance transfer offer has 2 components:

• 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.24% to 28.49%..
• There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. A balance transfer fee of 5% of each transfer ($5 minimum) applies if completed after 4 months of account opening.

Also, you earn 2% cash-back, 1% when you buy, and 1% when you pay. These cash-back rewards are issued in ThankYou Points, which are transferable to all of Citi’s transfer partners. The transfer ratio is lower for no-annual-fee cards like the Citi Double Cash card than with a premium Citi credit card.

You can access all Citi ThankYou transfer partners at elevated ratios if you also have the Citi Strata Premier card or Citi Strata Elite card.

If you don’t have the Citi Strata Premier card or Citi Strata Elite card, you redeem your rewards for cash-back, direct deposit, transfer partners at lower ratios, or gift cards.

Lastly, the Citi Double Cash card has fraud protection, authorized user cards for no additional annual fee, and access to Citi Entertainment.

Runner-Up: Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express

With the Amex Blue Cash Everyday card, you potentially earn a welcome offer bonus and up to 3% cash-back:

• 3% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%
• 3% cash-back at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%
• 3% cash-back on U.S. online retail purchases on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%
• 1% cash-back on other purchases

There’s a $7 monthly Disney streaming credit statement, a $15 monthly statement credit on Home Chef purchases, secondary car rental loss and damage insurance, purchase protection, fraud protection, and you can add authorized user cards for no additional fees (rates & fees).

Final Thoughts

American Express and Citi offer cards that can help facilitate your everyday personal (and business) finances. Amex tends to offer higher value rewards, but Citi has competitive cards. The best card depends on how you spend and what you value for rewards and benefits.

We give Amex the edge in this head-to-head matchup, but you may find a Citi-issued card could work better for your unique situation.