The 9 Best Credit Cards for Authorized Users [2024]

Adding someone you know as an authorized user can be one of the best things that can happen to them financially.

Between the ability to pass on positive credit history, massively boost credit scores, accumulate points for someone else’s spending, and share benefits without paying another annual fee, there are lots of reasons why you would want to consider adding someone as an authorized user.

So whether you’re doing so for a family member or a significant other, you should know that not all authorized user arrangements are the same.

Many credit cards actually don’t provide the same benefits to authorized users as they do to the primary cardholder. But if you’ve ever tried to read through the legalese of these agreements, it can get very confusing very quickly.

We’ve compiled all of the criteria you’re probably looking for in a credit card for authorized users and we’ve ranked our top picks in this guide.

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• The Platinum Card^® from American Express — Best for Worldwide Lounge Access, Premium Benefits & Perks
• Chase Sapphire Reserve^® — Best for Priority Pass & Travel Insurance
• American Express^® Gold Card — Best for Travel Insurance
• Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card — Best for Rental Car & Travel Insurance
• Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Executive World Elite Mastercard^® — Best for Admirals Club Membership
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card — Best for Lounge Access, Rental Car Status & Travel Insurance
• Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express — Best for Secondary Rental Car Insurance
• Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express — Best for Secondary Rental Car Insurance
• Citi Strata Premier℠ Card — Best for Citi Concierge, Citi Entertainment & World Elite Mastercard benefits

Pros and Cons of Adding an Authorized User

Deciding whether to add someone as an authorized user is a loaded decision. The main drawback of doing so is that you’ll be 100% financially responsible for the balances and payments of the authorized user. This may not matter that much if it’s a direct family member like a teenager or college student, but it’s still a consideration.

Adding someone as an authorized user is ideally suited for those who are just starting to build credit or need help accessing credit. If you have a child whose credit history is relatively new, they may either get low credit limits or have a low credit score from a thin credit file.

If you add someone as an authorized user, that person will inherit your credit card’s history, for better or worse.

If you have a perfect payment history, then it’ll absolutely boost your authorized user’s credit health.

On the flip side, if you add your authorized user to a credit card with delinquencies, late payments, and other negative items, it will probably end up lowering your authorized user’s credit score.

Just keep all of these factors in mind when deciding whether or not to add someone as an authorized user to a credit card.

What To Look for in a Credit Card for Authorized Users

If you’re looking for a superb credit card for authorized users, you’ll probably want a card that grants lots of benefits to your authorized user, even though the account is under your name.

Ideally, you’ll focus on a card that not only transfers a lot of benefits to your authorized user but also earns points and/or cash-back as well.

After all, it would be a shame to miss out on bonus points for spending that your authorized user would have to make anyway.

In our ranking list, we identify the cards that offer the most outsized value to authorized users.

Some of these cards will have fees to add authorized users, but you’ll notice that the incremental value you’d get from these cards far and away exceeds the marginal fee of adding an authorized user.

Lounge access, bonus categories, and travel insurance are all factors that might drive which credit card is the best fit for you and your authorized users.

You’ll also want to be able to track and manage an authorized user’s spending, whether that means setting spending limits or separating your primary cardholder expenses from the authorized user’s expenses.

Hot Tip: Looking for the best business credit cards for additional users? Instead of authorized users, the terminology for business credit cards is employee cards. Semantics aside, check out our guide to the best credit cards for multiple employees!

The 9 Best Credit Cards for Authorized Users

Card Summary

*The information regarding the American Express^® Green Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Amex Platinum Card (Best for Worldwide Lounge Access, Premium Benefits & Perks)

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary 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.

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

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

Welcome Offer

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

80,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,760

Annual Fee

$695

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 cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card^® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com

Cons

• $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card^®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card^® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card^® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card^®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card^® Members can get out and about and explore their local area with $15 in Uber Cash for US rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings. Simply download the Uber app and add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to get started. Available to Basic Card Member only. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
• $199 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck^® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card^®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card^®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

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

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

Our #1 choice of the best cards for authorized users is the Amex Platinum card. Known as the best card for luxury travel benefits, this is absolutely one of the most comprehensive travel rewards cards out there.

You’ll earn 5x points per $1 spent on flights purchased directly from the airline or from AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per calendar year) and 5x points per $1 spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com.

Also, the Amex Platinum card comes with over $1,400 in statement credits for the primary cardmember only:

• Up to $100 in Saks Fifth Avenue statement credits
• Up to $200 in Uber Cash ($15 per month and $35 in December)
• Up to $200 in airline incidental fee credits every calendar year
• Up to $199 in CLEAR Plus credits every year
• Up to $300 in Equinox credits every year
• Up to $240 in digital entertainment credits every year
• Up to $200 in prepaid hotel credits at Fine Hotels & Resorts or The Hotel Collection (via AmexTravel.com) every year
• Up to $155 in Walmart+ credits every year

Some credits require enrollment, so if you’re the primary cardholder, make sure you explore your American Express account to get the most out of your card.

Although authorized users will not get their own statement credits, both primary cardmembers and authorized users will get an astonishing suite of benefits, including luxury travel perks:

• The ability to earn Amex Membership Rewards points on all purchases, including bonus category purchases
• Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and Priority Pass lounges (upon enrollment)
• A Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• Complimentary hotel and rental car statuses
• Access to Amex Offers
• Access to the Amex International Airline Program (airfare discounts)

You also get access to all travel insurance benefits, such as secondary car rental car insurance, trip interruption, trip cancellation, trip delay, lost/stolen baggage, damaged baggage, delayed baggage, and emergency evacuation. There are no foreign transaction fees, and cardmembers benefit from purchase protection, cell phone protection, extended warranty coverage, and zero fraud liability protection.

Note that some benefits require enrollment through your American Express account, so don’t miss out on getting the most out of your card.

Benefits for Authorized Users

When you add an authorized user, you have 3 options:

• Authorized user Amex Platinum card: $195 per card
• Authorized user American Gold card: $0 annual fee
• Authorized user American Green card: $0 annual fee

The long list of perks above applies only to authorized user Amex Platinum cards — if you have the complimentary Amex Gold card, you’ll get a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit, access to The Hotel Collection, access to bonus categories, and access to Amex Offers.

The authorized user Amex Green card doesn’t present any benefit over the authorized user Amex Gold card; you should probably avoid it as a general rule.

All information about the American Express^® Green Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points.

Hot Tip: We have a guide that can specifically walk you through all of the benefits of adding an authorized user to your Amex Platinum card, along with an explanation of the limitations of adding an Amex Gold card.

Why We Like Earning Amex Membership Rewards Points

Our most valuable type of rewards points is Amex Membership Rewards points. By our valuations, your points would be worth 2.2 cents apiece, which is a significant amount!

That means if you earn 5x points, you can get an 11% return on spend — even higher in some cases!

We value these points so highly because you can utilize the long list of Amex transfer partners to book business and first class flights, as well as luxury hotels. This is the best way to get outsized value from your points.

If you are interested in redeeming your Amex points in other ways, you can use them for cash-back, statement credits, Pay With Points travel bookings made through AmexTravel.com, charitable donations, gift cards, and much more.

However, we generally recommend reserving your points for transfer partner redemptions.

Bottom Line: The Amex Platinum card is one of the few cards that confers a huge collection of travel perks to authorized users. Sure, authorized user cards aren’t without a fee, but considering how you can get way more value than the annual fee for an authorized user, it’s simply a no-brainer that the Amex Platinum card is our top choice for authorized users.

Chase Sapphire Reserve Card (Best for Priority Pass & Travel Insurance)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$550

APR

21.74% - 28.74% 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 cardapplication.

Excellent (740-850)

Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025

Cons

• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $120 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.74% - 28.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

One of Chase’s ultra-premium credit cards, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card is one of the most impressive with plenty of ultra-practical benefits.

Both the primary cardmember and authorized user will accrue points according to this structure:

• 10x points per $1 on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Travel after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points per $1 on Chase Dining purchases through Chase Travel when you make prepaid restaurant reservations
• 10x points per $1 on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 (through March 31, 2025)
• 5x points per $1 on flights booked through Chase Travel (after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually)
• 3x points per $1 on all other travel and all dining purchases
• 1x point per $1 on all other purchases

One of the best, easy-to-use benefits of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card is the $300 annual travel credit every anniversary year.

Other amazing perks include a Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fee credit, a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership (activation required), a DoorDash DashPass subscription (must activate by December 31, 2027), and access to The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection.

One of the biggest selling points of this card is the amazing travel insurance and coverage you get, such as primary rental car coverage, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, lost luggage coverage, baggage delay, roadside assistance, emergency evacuation and transportation, emergency medical and dental coverage, travel accident insurance, and travel and emergency assistance.

Benefits for Authorized Users

Authorized users do not get an additional $300 travel credit, nor do they get an additional Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS reimbursement.

However, here’s what authorized users can get:

• The ability to earn Ultimate Rewards points on all purchases with no caps, including bonus categories
• A complimentary Priority Pass Select membership
• The full gamut of Chase Sapphire Reserve’s travel protections
• Car rental elite status (via Visa Infinite)
• Extended warranty
• Purchase protection
• Return protection
• Zero liability fraud protection
• Access to The Luxury Hotel Collection

Each authorized user is charged an annual fee of $75.

Why We Like Earning Chase Ultimate Rewards Points

We believe Chase Ultimate Rewards points are one of the most valuable rewards points available, worth around 2 cents each.

You can redeem your Ultimate Rewards points for cash-back/statement credits, Amazon purchases, gift cards, Pay Yourself Back, and travel booked through the Chase travel portal.

Just like with Amex Membership Rewards, the best way (in our opinion) to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points is to transfer them to the Chase travel partners for 5-star hotel stays or for flights like Lufthansa first class!

Amex Gold Card (Best for Travel Insurance)

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 in's and out's 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

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

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 cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The American Express^® Gold Card is a game-changer.

With this 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 isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4x points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
• 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
• 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com

Cons

• $325 annual fee (rates and fees)
• No lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• 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 3X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 2X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 1X Membership Rewards^® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
• $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations.
• $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
• Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. Eligible charges vary by property.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $325.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

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

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 90k points with the Amex Gold card. The current public offer is 60,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

The Amex Gold card is one of the best cards for everyday purchases, and this card just makes a ton of sense for most people in the U.S.

Even though this is a fantastic everyday card, the rewards you earn can be used for exotic vacations for an incredible value!

What’s truly special is the points earning structure:

• 4x points per $1 at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., up to $50,000 per calendar year (1x after that)
• 4x points per $1 at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year (1x points after that)
• 3x points per $1 on flights purchased directly with the airline or at AmexTravel.com
• 1x points per $1 everywhere else

That means on common purchases like eating out and groceries, you could potentially earn up to 8.8% back on your spending, with a valuation of 2.2 cents per Amex point.

It doesn’t end there because the primary cardmember will get up to $120 per year in dining statement credits at participating restaurants, including Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys (enrollment required).

Other essential Amex Gold card benefits include access to the American Express Hotel Collection, secondary car rental coverage, travel insurance, a complimentary ShopRunner membership, purchase protection, extended warranty coverage, no preset spending limit*, no foreign transaction fees, and access to Amex Offers (rates & fees).

*No Preset Spending Limit means your spending limit is flexible. Unlike a traditional card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment, and credit history.

Benefits for Authorized Users

So what benefits are included for authorized users? Here are the included benefits:

• The ability to earn Amex points on your purchases, including up to 4x points at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants (normal restrictions apply)
• All travel insurance and coverage offered to the primary cardmember
• Complimentary ShopRunner membership
• Access to Amex Offers
• No foreign transaction fees

You can add up to 5 additional cards for no annual fee — after that, you’ll pay $35 for each additional card.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card (Best for Rental Car & Travel Insurance)

BEST BEGINNER CARD

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 bonus points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$95

APR

20.74% - 27.74% 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 cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred^® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
• 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.74% - 27.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

We’ve always thought of the Chase Sapphire Preferred card as the best beginner rewards credit card you can get. It just offers some of the most well-thought-out benefits that most cardholders out there will find useful.

Its rewards aren’t terribly complicated, its fees are very mild, and it consistently delivers outsized value to customers.

Also, this credit card earns:

• 5x points per $1 on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
• 5x points per $1 on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 (through March 31, 2025)
• 5x points per $1 on travel purchased through Chase Travel
• 3x points on dining, select streaming services, and online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs)
• 2x points on all other travel purchases
• 1x points per $1 everywhere else

Incredibly, your spending would return you 2%, 4%, or 10%, based on a valuation of 2 cents per point! Plus, you’ll get a 10% anniversary boost of points earned every year, which will increase your return on spending even more!

You’ll get a complimentary DoorDash DashPass subscription; simply activate by December 31, 2027.

This credit card is famous for its second-to-none travel coverage for a mid-tier premium credit card — the highlights are primary car rental insurance, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, trip delay coverage, baggage delay insurance, lost luggage insurance, travel accident coverage, and much more.

Non-travel-related benefits that’ll come in handy are zero fraud liability, purchase protection, and extended warranty coverage.

Benefits for Authorized Users

Authorized users of the Chase Sapphire Preferred card can access all the benefits except any statement credits.

So, authorized users will get the full accouterment of travel coverage benefits, the bonus categories to earn Ultimate Rewards points, and a complimentary DoorDash DashPass subscription (activate by December 31, 2027) all without any additional fees!

AAdvantage Executive World Elite Card (Best for Admirals Club Membership)

Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Executive World Elite Mastercard^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Access to Admirals Clubs, tons of added benefits, and a way to spend towards elite status make this a great option for American Airlines loyalists.

Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Executive World Elite Mastercard^®

Access to Admirals Clubs, tons of added benefits, and a way to spend towards elite status make this a great option for American Airlines loyalists.

Welcome Offer

Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage^® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.

70,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$980

Annual Fee

$595

APR

21.24% - 29.99% 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 cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Citi^®/AAdvantage^® Executive World Elite Mastercard^® is a go-to card thanks to its exclusive perks and benefits for people who love to fly American Airlines. With a complimentary Admirals Club membership, free checked bags, inflight discounts, and the ability to earn Loyalty Points for every $1 you spend, there is plenty to love about the card.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage^® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening
• Earn 10 miles per $1 spent on eligible car rentals booked through aa.com/cars
• Earn 10 miles per $1 spent on eligible hotels booked through aa.com/hotels

Cons

• $595 annual fee
• Doesn’t earn many miles on all other eligible purchases

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage^® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.
• Admirals Club^® membership for you and access for up to two guests or immediate family members traveling with you
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
• Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage^® mile earned from purchases
• First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to 8 companions traveling with you on the same reservation

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.24% - 29.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 

Rewards Center

American Airlines AAdvantage Frequent Flyer Program

The AAdvantage Executive World Elite card is marketed as the only travel credit card with Admirals Club membership, so it seems pretty clear who this card’s target market is.

Appealing to those looking for a complimentary Admirals Club membership and American Airlines-related benefits, the AAdvantage Executive World Elite card offers the most elite card for loyal American Airlines customers.

As far as spending categories go, you can earn 4x miles per $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases and 10x miles per $1 spent on eligible car rentals and hotels booked through American Airlines.

To start, you will enjoy:

• A complimentary Admirals Club membership (valued at around $850 alone)
• A Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit of up to $120 every 4 years, as of October 1, 2024
• Your first checked bag free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for yourself and up to 8 travel companions
• Priority boarding on American Airlines flights
• Priority check-in and priority airport screening (where available for you and up to 8 travel companions)
• 25% savings on inflight food and beverage purchases on American Airlines flights

Other benefits include zero fraud liability and access to Citi Entertainment

Why We Like Earning American Airlines AAdvantage Miles

In general, we value American Airlines AAdvantage miles at 1.5 cents per mile. However, it’s pretty easy to get outsized value if you can redeem them for international business and first class travel.

Unfortunately, these miles aren’t as flexible as, say, Chase Ultimate Rewards points, because they can only be used for flights, upgrades, Five Star Service, newspapers, donations, car rentals, hotel stays, or vacation itineraries.

For the vast majority of redemptions, you’ll get poor value for your miles — it’s a sign that you should probably keep your miles for those high-value international redemptions!

Capital One Venture X Card (Best for Lounge Access, Rental Car Status & Travel Insurance)

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Apply Now(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$395

APR

19.99% - 29.49% (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 cardapplication.

Excellent (740-840)

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $395 annual fee (rates & fees)
• Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Enjoy complimentary access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.99% - 29.49% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

As the flagship Capital One credit card, the Capital One Venture X card focuses on offering the flexibility of cash-back rewards while still having some great transfer partnerships with airlines and hotels.

This “best-of-both-world” approach, combined with its simple earning categories, is one of the reasons why we like the Capital One Venture X card a lot!

As one of the most rewarding credit cards for everyday spending, this card will enable you to earn bonus points on every purchase you make. Specifically, you’ll earn an unlimited 2x Capital One miles on all purchases with no caps!

The primary cardmember will get a $300 annual travel credit on bookings made through Capital One Travel, 10,000 bonus miles every anniversary year, access to Capital One Lounges and Plaza Premium Lounges, a Priority Pass Select membership, complimentary Hertz President’s Circle status, $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit, as well as other important travel coverages like primary car rental insurance, lost luggage coverage, roadside dispatch, and travel assistance services.

Just like most credit cards out there, you’ll have cell phone insurance, purchase security, extended warranty, zero fraud liability, and access to Capital One Miles. You also won’t pay any foreign transaction fees (rates & fees).

Benefits for Authorized Users

There are also no additional fees for adding up to 4 authorized users (rates & fees), who get these perks:

• Priority Pass Select membership
• Access to Capital One Lounges and Plaza Premium Lounges
• Hertz President’s Circle status
• The ability to earn Capital One miles on all purchases with no caps
• Travel insurance benefits
• Purchase security
• Extended warranty
• Zero fraud liability
• No foreign transaction fees (rates & fees)

Authorized users do not receive the $300 annual travel credit, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee reimbursement, or anniversary bonus.

Why We Like Earning Capital One Miles

Capital One miles are one of the top flexible rewards points out there, worth 1.8 cents per mile. That means earning 2x miles is worth around a 3.6% return on spending.

We think that the best way to redeem Capital One miles is for luxury airfare and hotels such as American Airlines first class or ANA business class via transfer partners.

Most of the Capital One transfer partners transfer at a 1:1 ratio, although there are a couple that sit at a 2:1 or 2:1.5 ratio.

Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card (Best for Secondary Rental Car Insurance)

HIGHEST CASH BACK

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 in's and out's 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

Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.

$250

Annual Fee

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

APR

18.24%-29.24% 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 cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

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

• Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It^® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
• Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 18.24% - 29.24%.
• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
• 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• $84 Disney Bundle Credit: With your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred Card, spend $9.99 or more each month on an auto-renewing Disney Bundle subscription, to receive a monthly statement credit of $7. Valid only at Disney Plus.com, Hulu.com or Plus.espn.com in the U.S.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 18.24%-29.24% 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 is an amazing card for the right consumer.

If you generally don’t eat out at restaurants, consume lots of digital media, and spend a significant chunk on your commute, then the Amex Blue Cash Preferred card might be the best cash back card for you.

This card earns some incredible cash-back:

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

Being able to get up to 6% cash-back on purchases is a good enough reason alone to get the Amex Blue Cash Preferred card because all of your authorized users will be able to help you save big on your purchases, too.

One other benefit you might find useful is the 0% introductory APR period. Regular APR, as shown in the table above, applies after the introductory period.

But in addition to this benefit, you are entitled to benefits such as secondary rental car insurance, return protection, and fraud protection.

There are no authorized user fee.

Benefits for Authorized Users

Authorized users get access to pretty much all of the same perks as the primary cardholder does.

However, while authorized users can participate in the 0% introductory APR period, the period applies to the primary cardholder’s card opening date only.

Amex Blue Cash Everyday Card (Best for Secondary Rental Car Insurance)

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 in's and out's 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

Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

18.24%-29.24% 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 cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

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

• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• No Annual Fee.
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 18.24% to 29.24% variable APR.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets 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, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday^® Card. Enrollment required.
• Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday^® Card.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 18.24%-29.24% Variable,0% on purchases for 15 months
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

A step down from the Amex Blue Cash Preferred card, the Amex Blue Cash Everyday card offers headache-free rewards and useful bonus categories.

As the name suggests, you’ll earn some great cash-back rewards by using this product:

• 3% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 in purchases each year)
• 3% cash-back at U.S. gas stations (up to $6,000 in purchases each year)
• 3% cash-back at U.S. online retailers (up to $6,000 in purchases each year)
• 1% cash-back on everything else

This is a great card for those who typically shop the most at these common destinations — but it doesn’t end there!

You’ll also get access to one of the best 0% introductory APR promotions out there. Regular APR, as shown in the table above, applies after the introductory period.

Since this isn’t a travel rewards credit card, the travel-related benefits aren’t as plentiful; in any case, you’ll get a few perks including secondary car rental insurance, purchase protection, fraud protection, access to the Global Assist hotline, and the ability to book American Express Experiences.

You’ll also get up to $7 per month when you spend $9.99 per month on The Disney Bundle, as well as $15 per month in Home Chef credits.

There is no authorized user fee.

Benefits for Authorized Users

Authorized users get access to all of the primary card member’s perks above, save for an additional 0% introductory APR and statement credits towards The Disney Bundle or Home Chef.

The introductory APR is applicable only for the primary cardholder after the new card opening, not for authorized users.

Citi Strata Premier Card (Best for Citi Concierge, Citi Entertainment, and World Elite Mastercard benefits)

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

Welcome Offer

For a limited time: Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $750 in gift cards or travel rewards on thankyou.com.

75,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$95

APR

20.49% to 28.49% Variable APR

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

• For a limited time: Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $750 in gift cards or travel rewards on thankyou.com.
• Earn 10X points per $1 spent on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
• Earn 3X points per $1 on air travel and other hotel purchases, at restaurants, supermarkets, gas and EV charging stations.
• Earn 1X 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: 20.49% to 28.49% Variable APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Our last entrant in our list of the best credit cards for authorized users is the Citi Strata Premier card.

As you’ll find out shortly, the Citi Strata Premier card is an exceptional travel rewards credit card for those focused most on rewards over travel benefits.

You’ll earn according to this structure:

• 10x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through CitiTravel.com
• 3x points per $1 spent on airfare, hotels, dining, supermarkets, gas station, and EV charging stations
• 1x points per $1 spent everywhere else

This credit card is massively loaded on its bonus categories, and that’s the main appeal of this card.

Another great perk is the $100 annual hotel savings benefit, which allows you to enjoy $100 off of a single hotel stay of $500 or more, excluding taxes and fees, when booked through thankyou.com or 800-THANKYOU (once per calendar year).

You can still make use of the recreation, entertainment, and other travel-related benefits such as the Citi Concierge, Citi Entertainment, and World Elite Mastercard benefits.

It also has a few shopping protections, like purchase protection, extended warranty, and zero fraud liability.

There are no foreign transaction fees and no authorized user fees with this card.

Benefits for Authorized Users

All authorized users get access to the bonus spending categories, shopping protections, and benefits above except for the $100 annual hotel savings benefit.

The $100 hotel savings benefit is applicable for the entire card account, which means that while both the primary cardholder and authorized user can utilize it, members will only get access to a combined $100 for everyone under the card.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to the best credit cards for authorized users, you have a lot of options.

In many cases, the best cards for authorized users have an annual fee for authorized users; even so, the benefits that authorized users get far outweigh the relatively low cost of adding these authorized users.

Many great credit cards don’t charge additional fees for authorized users, so don’t worry, we compiled those best choices for your convenience, too.

Be sure to consider your personal situation such as where your authorized users will be transacting the most or what benefits your authorized users will need before identifying the best card to open!

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa^® or Mastercard^® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at that status level through the duration of the offer. Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Additional terms apply.

For the purchase protection benefit of the American Express^® Gold Card, and Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by Card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the car rental loss & damage insurance of the American Express^® Gold Card, Blue Cash Preferred^® from American Express, Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express, and The Platinum Card^® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by Card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

For the extended warranty benefit of the American Express^® Gold Card, and The Platinum Card^® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by Card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the return protection of the Blue Cash Preferred^® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by Card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

For the baggage insurance plan of the American Express^® Gold Card, and The Platinum Card^® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by Card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the Global Assist Hotline of the Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by Card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.

For the trip delay insurance of The Platinum Card^® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by Card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For the trip cancellation and interruption insurance of The Platinum Card^® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by Card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.