List of Major Credit Card Companies and Card Networks [History, Most Popular Cards, and More]

Modern charge cards first originated in 1946, when a Brooklyn banker named John Biggins launched the Charg-It card for customers of his bank. Charg-It card purchases were forwarded to Biggins’ bank, which then reimbursed the merchant and would later obtain payment from the customer, in what came to be known as the closed-loop system.

But the title of first credit card in widespread use is claimed by the Diners Club Card, launched in 1950. While its purchases were made on credit, the Diners Club was technically a charge card, meaning the bill had to be paid in full at the end of each month. The card became quite popular, and by the end of 1951, Diners Club had over 20,000 cardholders.

When the original American Express card was first launched in 1958, charge cards were rapidly becoming mainstream. In 1959, American Express was the first company to introduce a plastic card, replacing the older cardboard and celluloid cards. Within just 5 years, 1 million American Express cards were in use at over 85,000 merchants.

In this post, we outline 15 of the largest credit card companies (measured by their number of active credit card accounts), along with some history and facts about the company, and some of our favorites among the credit cards they offer.

Card Networks vs. Credit Card Companies

Before we dive in, it is important to make a distinction between a credit card company and a card network.

A credit card company is, put simply, any company that issues credit cards, whether it’s a bank, a credit union, or anything in between. So what is a card network, then? When you hear the words “card network,” think about companies like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.

Card networks work with credit card processors to transport your transaction data between the issuing bank and the merchant you’ve made the purchase with. The card networks are also responsible for setting interchange and assessment fees.

While each network sets its fees, it does not collect all of them. The interchange fees, which are the largest cost involved in credit card processing, are passed on to the issuing bank.

Now you may be wondering, “If companies like American Express and Discover are card networks, how do they also issue credit cards?” A company can be both a credit card network and a credit card issuer.

Because of this, credit cards on the Amex and Discover networks are mostly issued by those 2 companies (with a few exceptions). Meanwhile, a card on the Visa or Mastercard network could be issued by any other credit card company, as Visa and Mastercard do not issue their credit cards.

Make sense? Great! Now let’s do a deep dive into each U.S. major credit card company and network!

American Express

History

American Express, also known as Amex, was founded in 1850 and is best known for its charge cards and credit card products. However, some of its cards, which were formerly known as charge cards, are now simply referred to as cards.

According to the Nilson Report, a publication that tracks the credit card industry, in 2023 American Express ranked second in credit card market share by purchase volume, with a total of $1.124 trillion.

Fortune ranks American Express as the eighth most admired company worldwide.

Our Favorite Amex Cards

Platinum Card^® from American Express

Without question, the most popular and recognizable American Express card is the Amex Platinum Card. The card is branded as a symbol of status and luxury and has an annual fee of $895, but isn’t as difficult to be approved for as you may think (rates & fees).

+ NEW BENEFITS

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 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.

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

You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

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, 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 1,550 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), 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

• $895 annual fee (rates and 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 $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.
• 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.
• More Value! 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 complimentary Delta Sky Club^® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges. * As of 07/2025.
• More Value! $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.
• More Value! $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $25 in statement credits each month after you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card^® at participating partners. Enrollment required.
• More Value! $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.
• New! $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: When you use the Platinum Card^® to pay at U.S. Resy restaurants and to make other eligible purchases through Resy, you can get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter with the $400 Resy Credit benefit. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card^®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you, enrollment required.
• More Value! $209 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR Plus Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR Plus with the 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 upon arrival, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
• New! $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: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card^®.*Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
• $100 Saks Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue or saks.com on the Platinum Card^®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits from January through June and up to $50 in statement credits from July through December. No minimum purchase required. Enrollment required.
• 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 is easily one of the best travel cards on the market, with benefits that can more than make up for the annual fee. It offers 5x earnings on airfare booked directly from airlines and on Amex Travel (up to $500,000 per year), combined with great travel benefits like hotel elite status, Uber cash and airline incidental credits, and best-in-class airport lounge access.

American Express Gold^® Card

Playing second fiddle to the Amex Platinum is Amex Gold card, its second-most popular card. The Amex Gold card is perfect for those who want a powerful points-earning card with a lower annual fee, at $325 (rates & fees).

NEW OFFER

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 spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of 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

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

• You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $6,000 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 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 get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
• $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. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
• $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.
• 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 rewards cardholders with benefits like 4x points per $1 at restaurants (up to $50,000 per year) and at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year), 3x on on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com, a monthly dining credit at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys (upon enrollment).

Hot Tip:

Many American Express card ads feature a sample American Express Card with the name “C. F. Frost” on the front. This is not a fabricated name; Charles F. Frost was an advertising executive at Ogilvy & Mather, the ad agency that coined the popular “Don’t Leave Home Without Them” campaign.

Bank of America

History

The Bank of America Corporation (abbreviated as BofA) is a multinational investment bank and financial services company based in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is the second-largest banking institution in the U.S., after JPMorgan Chase.

As of December 2024, Bank of America had a $358.82 billion market capitalization, making it the 27th-largest company in the world by market cap. Bank of America was ranked #18 on the 2024 Fortune 500 rankings of the largest U.S. corporations by total revenue.

Bank of America operates 4,800 retail financial centers and approximately 15,900 ATMs nationwide. It is more widely known for its consumer banking and investment products, but it still has over 55 million credit cards in circulation, according to the 2022 Nilson Report.

Our Favorite Bank of America Cards

Bank of America^® Premium Rewards^® Credit Card

The Premium Rewards card is Bank of America’s foray into the premium travel-rewards card market. Cardholders earn 2x points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and 1.5x points per $1 on all other purchases. The points are worth a fixed 1 cent towards travel or cash back.

Bank of America^® Premium Rewards^® credit 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 Bank of America Premium Rewards card is a great travel rewards card for those looking for a simple approach to earning and redeeming rewards.

Bank of America^® Premium Rewards^® credit card

The Bank of America Premium Rewards card is a great travel rewards card for those looking for a simple approach to earning and redeeming rewards.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

60,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$600

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.99% to 27.99% 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 card application.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Bank of America^® Premium Rewards^® credit card is a great option for anyone looking for a travel rewards card with a simple approach to how you earn and redeem your rewards.

From travel and purchase protections to airline incidental and Global Entry credits, there is plenty to love about the Bank of America Premium Rewards card.

Plus, those that hold status in the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program can get even more value from the card by boosting their rewards by 25% to 75%!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x points per $1 on travel and dining purchases
• 1.5x points per $1 on all other purchases
• Up to $100 annual airline incidental statement credit

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Points are worth a fixed 1 cent per point, so it isn’t possible to get outsized redemptions via airline and hotel transfer partners

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Receive 60,000 online bonus points – a $600 value – after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
• Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
• If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87-2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
• No limit to the points you can earn and your points don’t expire.
• Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America^® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill^® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
• Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck^® or Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $120, every four years.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Low $95 annual fee.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.99% to 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

An innovative feature of the card allows you to earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase depending on the assets you have with Bank of America. Cardholders who have at least a combined $100,000 in assets on deposit with Bank of America can earn up to 3.5x points on travel and dining purchases and up to 2.625x points on all other purchases.

Atmos™ Rewards Ascent Visa Signature^® card

Atmos™ Rewards Ascent Visa Signature^® 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.

Provides the potential to earn plenty of points to fly with Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines or over a dozen partners. Plus, get an annual companion fare from just $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) when you spend at least $6,000 a year on the card!

Atmos™ Rewards Ascent Visa Signature^® card

Provides the potential to earn plenty of points to fly with Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines or over a dozen partners. Plus, get an annual companion fare from just $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) when you spend at least $6,000 a year on the card!

Welcome Offer

Earn 80,000 bonus points and a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $4,000 or more on purchases within the first 120 days after account opening.

80,000 points + $99 Companion Fare™

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,280

Annual Fee

$95

APR

20.24% - 28.24% 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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

With the Atmos Rewards Ascent card in your wallet, you can get great perks and earn points at the same time. This is a win-win if Alaska or Hawaiian is the airline you prefer to fly with! Plus, its annual companion fare is a great benefit for traveling couples.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x points per $1 spent on Alaska and Hawaiian purchases
• 2x points per $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging, local transit (including rideshare), cable, and select streaming services
• 1x point per $1 spent on all other purchases

Cons

• Charges a $95 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 80,000 bonus points and a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $4,000 or more on purchases within the first 120 days after account opening.
• Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™. Get a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines flights booked direct.
• Free checked bag. Any cardholder who purchases airfare with their card, and up to 6 additional guests traveling on the same reservation, may check their first bag free.
• Enjoy priority boarding so you can get to your seat quicker, when you pay for your flight with your card.
• Earn unlimited 3 points for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your points don’t expire on active accounts.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all points earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America^® account.
• Enjoy 20% back on all Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines inflight purchases and get $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ Membership when you pay with your new card.
• With oneworld^® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem points.
• Flexibility with no blackout dates on Alaska Airlines flights when booking with points or a companion fare.
• Plus, no foreign transaction fees.^†

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24% - 28.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

You may be surprised to see a co-branded airline credit card listed here, but the Atmos Rewards Ascent card is one of the best airline cards on the market, mainly due to how valuable Alaska points can be.

Cardholders earn 3x points for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines purchases, and 20% back on all Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines inflight purchases. Each account anniversary, you receive a companion fare valid on all Alaska flights and select Hawaiian Airlines flights after spending $6,000 the prior year.

Barclays

History

Barclays is a British multinational investment bank and financial services company headquartered in London, and can trace its origins to the 17th century. Barclays launched the first U.K. credit card program in 1966 and moved into the U.S. market in 2004.

Barclays is best known for its travel-rewards credit cards and co-branded credit cards, especially those in partnership with JetBlue and Lufthansa. While its presence is much smaller than many other banks, Barclays still has 11.5 million cards in circulation.

Our Favorite Barclays Card

The JetBlue Plus Card 

The JetBlue Plus card is a great option for frequent JetBlue flyers, as it provides a free checked bag for the cardholder and up to 3 travel companions, a 10% points rebate on award flights, no foreign transaction fees, and 5,000 bonus points each year on your card account anniversary.

Hot Tip:

Be aware of the Barclays 6/24 rule, which may cause you to be rejected for an application for a credit card if you have more than 6 new accounts in the last 24 months.

Capital One

History

Capital One is a bank holding company specializing in credit cards, auto loans, banking, and savings accounts, headquartered in McLean, Virginia. Capital One is ranked 10th on the list of largest banks in the U.S. by assets, and is the fourth-largest credit card issuer by purchase volume.

Capital One started as a monoline bank, meaning that all of its revenue came from a single product (in this case, credit cards). It helped pioneer the mass marketing of credit cards in the 1990s, and despite its short history, Capital One has undoubtedly made a name for itself in the credit card market with its suite of different card offerings.

Our Favorite Capital One Cards

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit 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 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Welcome Offer

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

75,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$95

APR

Purchases: 19.99% - 28.99% (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 card application.

Good to Excellent Credit (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x miles per $1 on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
• Up to a $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Limited elite benefits

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 19.99% - 28.99% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

You’ve likely seen dozens of commercials for the Venture card before, advertising its unlimited 2x miles on every purchase. All earned miles can now be transferred to Capital One transfer partners — unlocking huge value!

Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit 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 Capital One Savor card is a great no-annual fee card for those who regularly spend on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target).

Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Savor card is a great no-annual fee card for those who regularly spend on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target).

Welcome Offer

LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Earn $300 in welcome bonuses. Enjoy a $100 credit to use towards flights, stays and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel during your first cardholder year. Plus, earn a $200 cash bonus once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.

$100 travel credit + $200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

Purchases: 0% intro on purchases for 12 months; 18.99% - 28.99% variable thereafter

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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Savor card is a phenomenal option when it comes to no-annual-fee cash-back credit cards. With popular bonus categories like dining, grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target), entertainment, and popular streaming services, and the ability to earn 3% cash-back on these purchases, it is easy to see why those who use the card can earn some serious cash-back throughout the year.

The card also allows you to take your rewards and experiences even further by offering access to Capital One Travel, Capital One Dining, and Capital One Entertainment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
• 5% cash-back on hotels, rental cars, and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply.
• 3% cash-back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target)

Cons

• Rewards are purely cash-back, so there is no option for miles transfers to transfer partners for redemptions

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Earn $300 in welcome bonuses. Enjoy a $100 credit to use towards flights, stays and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel during your first cardholder year. Plus, earn a $200 cash bonus once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn unlimited 3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart^® and Target^®), on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services, plus 1% on all other purchases
• Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
• Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how much you can earn
• 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months; 18.99% – 28.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 0% intro on purchases for 12 months; 18.99% - 28.99% variable thereafter
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The Capital One Savor card*×Information collected independently. Not reviewed by Capital One. is a compelling cash-back card that earns 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart or Target).

Cardholders also benefit from perks like no foreign transaction fees, extended warranty on purchases, and travel accident insurance.

Credit One

History

Credit One is a U.S.-based bank specializing in credit cards. Its corporate headquarters is in Las Vegas, and it is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sherman Financial Group, LLC. Credit One focuses primarily on 2 types of products, partially and fully secured credit cards, and had 18 million cards in circulation as of 2021.

Our Favorite Credit One Card

Credit One Bank^® Platinum Rewards Visa with No Annual Fee

This no-annual-fee card offers 2% cash-back on all purchases, making it an excellent option for those who want an uncomplicated cash-back card. Cardholders also receive free online access to their Experian credit score, so you can monitor your credit health and track your progress.

Hot Tip:

 For the most part, credit cards from Credit One are marketed toward individuals who have zero credit or need to repair their credit. If you do not fall into either of those categories, then it’s likely you can get a much better card from one of the other issuers mentioned in this post.

Chase

History

JPMorgan Chase Bank, headquartered in New York City, is the largest bank in the U.S. by total deposits. The bank was known as Chase Manhattan Bank until it merged with J.P. Morgan & Co. in 2000. The bank now employs more than 250,000 people and does business in more than 100 countries.

Chase is a giant in the credit card world, with over 149 million cards in circulation. Chase credit cards are among the best, from the bank’s suite of Ultimate Rewards-earning cards to the various co-branded partnerships with companies like United, Marriott, and Southwest.

Our Favorite Chase Cards

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is one of the top travel rewards cards on the market for its combination of point earning and travel benefits. In fact, when Chase launched the Chase Sapphire Reserve card in 2016, demand was so high that Chase ran out of the metal required to make the card.

With the recent overhaul of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, it now features a new card art and an even heavier metal — weighing 19.6 grams, to be exact.

Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders earn 8x points on Chase Travel, 4x points on airlines and hotels booked directly, and 3x points on dining. The card also comes with many statement credits, including a $300 annual travel credit, up to $500 in credits for The Edit by Chase Travel hotel bookings, up to a $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit, access to Chase Sapphire lounges, a Priority Pass Select membership, and best-in-class travel protections.

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

For business owners, the Ink Business Preferred card is one of the best business credit cards (and probably our favorite Chase business credit card) — a stellar option that earns 3x points per $1 on up to $150,000 in combined purchases on travel, shipping, advertising purchases made with social media sites or search engines, internet, cable, and phone services.

The Ink Business Preferred card is also one of the few cards to offer up to $1,000 per claim in cell phone protection against covered theft or damage for you and your employees listed on your monthly cell phone bill, when you pay it with your card.

Hot Tip:

Be aware of the Chase 5/24 rule! If you’ve opened more than 5 new credit cards in the last 24 months, Chase will almost certainly not approve you for most of its credit cards.

Citibank

History

Citigroup Inc., or Citi, is an American multinational investment bank and financial services corporation headquartered in New York City. Citigroup is ranked third on the list of largest banks in the U.S. and is ranked 21st on the Fortune 500, as of 2024.

Another major player in the credit card world, Citi currently has over 79 million cards in circulation, including Citi ThankYou cards and co-branded cards with partners like American Airlines.

Our Favorite CitiBank Cards

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

We love the Citi Strata Premier card thanks to its plethora of bonus categories like 10x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through CitiTravel.com, along with 3x points on air travel, other hotel purchases, restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and EV charging stations. Plus, the card offers flexible redemption options like access to Citi transfer partners, redeeming through Citi Travel, gift cards, cash back, and more.

Citi Double Cash^® Card

The Citi Double Cash is one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market for its ability to earn 2% on every purchase (1% when you buy, plus and additional 1% when you pay). The card offers no caps on cash back and no annual fee.

This makes the card an industry leader when it comes to nonbonus spend, and it allows you to rack up ThankYou points fast, which you can redeem for huge value.

Hot Tip:

Citibank has a few different rules that determine whether or you will be eligible for its credit cards. Read all out them in our dedicated guide! 

Discover

History

Founded in 1985 as a subsidiary of Sears, it wasn’t until 2007 that Discover was spun off as an independent, publicly traded company. Today, Discover is the country’s sixth-largest card network, based on purchase volume.

When the Discover card was first launched, it offered consumers a small rebate on all their purchases, making it one of the first cash-back cards ever offered in the U.S.

Today, Discover still holds that reputation of a company that primarily offers cash-back cards, and with over 60 million cards in circulation, you could say it’s been quite successful.

Our Favorite Discover Cards

Discover it^® Cash Back Card

The Discover Cash-Back card is easily Discover’s most popular card offering, and you’ve likely seen several commercials advertising the card and its “cash-back match” program.

The Discover Cash Back card offers 5% cash-back at different merchants each quarter (up to the quarterly maximum of $1,500) plus an unlimited 1% cash-back on all other purchases.

To increase those earnings even further, Discover automatically matches all the cash-back you’ve earned at the end of your first year, with no limit.

Discover it^® Miles Card

With the Discover Miles card, you earn an unlimited 1.5x miles for every dollar spent on all purchases. Unlike airline miles, these miles are worth a fixed 1 cent per point when you redeem them toward travel.

Similar to the Discover Cash-Back card, Discover automatically matches all the miles you earn at the end of your first year.

Mastercard

History

Mastercard, founded in 1966 and headquartered in Purchase, New York, is the second-largest credit card network in the world, with over 200 million cards in circulation worldwide.

Mastercard makes up over 31% of the card network market share in the world. 

Its business model is to process payments between the banks of merchants and the card-issuing banks or credit unions of the purchasers who use a Mastercard brand debit card, credit card, or prepaid card to make purchases.

Our Favorite Mastercards

Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^®

The AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite card offers 2x miles per $1 for all American Airlines spending, and for spending at restaurants and gas stations. You’ll also get preferred boarding, your first checked bag free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to 4 companions on the reservation, and 25% off inflight food and beverage purchases made with the card.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

The IHG Premier card earns up to 26 points total per $1 spent when you stay at an IHG hotel, 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, gas stations, and restaurants, and 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Cardholders get automatic Platinum Elite status with IHG, plus a free anniversary night certificate valid at properties costing 40,000 points or less per night on each account anniversary.

PNC Bank

History

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc., is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Its name derives from the initials of the bank’s 2 predecessor companies: Pittsburgh National Corporation and Provident National Corporation, which merged in 1983.

It’s ranked ninth on the list of largest banks in the U.S. by assets. PNC is the fifth-largest bank by number of branches, sixth-largest by deposits, and fourth-largest in number of ATMs. PNC’s credit card offerings are rather small in comparison to other issuers, with just 5 million cards in circulation.

Our Favorite PNC Cards

PNC Cash Rewards^® Visa^® Credit Card

With the PNC Cash Rewards card, you earn 4% back on gas station purchases, 3% on dining purchases, 2% on grocery store purchases, and 1% on all other purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually. 

PNC Premier Traveler^® Visa Signature^® Credit Card

The PNC Premier Traveler card offers cardholders 2x miles for every $1 spent on all purchases, and no foreign transaction fees on purchases. Your PNC miles are worth a fixed 1 cent per point when you redeem them as a statement credit for travel purchases.

Synchrony

History

Synchrony Financial, founded in 2003, and headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, is known for being the largest provider of private-label credit cards in the U.S. The company provides private-label credit cards for such brands as Ashley HomeStores, BP, Cathay Pacific, Discount Tire, Guitar Center, J.C. Penney, Lowe’s, and many more. In fact, if you’ve ever opened a store credit card, odds are that it was issued by Synchrony, which offers more than 100. 

Our Favorite Synchrony Cards

Cathay Pacific Visa Signature^®

The Cathay Pacific Visa Signature card is easily the best travel rewards card that Synchrony has to offer. It earns 2x miles per $1 on purchases with Cathay Pacific, 1.5x miles per $1 on dining purchases in the U.S. or abroad, 1.5x miles per $1 on other purchases abroad, and 1x mile per $1 on other domestic purchases.

Cathay Pacific Asia miles can be very valuable when redeemed for trips on Cathay Pacific and their partners.

USAA

History

The United Services Automobile Association was founded in 1922 by 25 U.S. Army officers as a form of mutual self-insurance, because insurance companies would not issue policies to military officers since they were seen as a high-risk group.

USAA has since expanded to offer banking and insurance services to past and present members of the armed forces and their families. It’s now the 11th-largest credit card issuer in the U.S. by purchase volume and outstanding balances.

Our Favorite USAA Card

USAA Eagle Navigator^® Credit Card

USAA Eagle Navigator^® Credit 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 USAA Eagle Navigator^® Credit Card earns 3x on travel purchases, including tolls, rideshares, hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and more!

USAA Eagle Navigator^® Credit Card

The USAA Eagle Navigator^® Credit Card earns 3x on travel purchases, including tolls, rideshares, hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and more!

Welcome Offer

Earn 30,000 bonus points ($300 travel value) after spending $3,000 on qualifying purchases within 90 days of account opening.

30,000 points

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.15% to 27.40% 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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The USAA Eagle Navigator^® Credit Card is well-suited for USAA members who travel frequently and want a card that will reward them for these purchases.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x points on travel and transit purchases
• 2x points on all other purchases
• Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit

Cons

• Annual fee of $95
• Points are not transferable

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Must be a USAA® member, or become a member, to apply. USAA proudly offers membership to current and former military, as well as their spouses and dependents.
• Intro Offer: Earn 30,000 bonus points ($300 travel value) after spending $3,000 on qualifying purchases within 90 days of account opening.
• 3X points on travel purchases – triple your points on tolls, rideshares, hotels, vacation rentals, flights and more.
• 2X points on everyday purchases – double your points on groceries, gas, dining, bills and more.
• Earn 10,000 bonus points every year – applies after you complete eligible hotel or car booking. That’s equal to a $100 travel value.
• Up to $120 credit towards TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry® fee every four years.
• Enjoy valuable travel benefits and protection, including Auto Rental Coverage, Travel Accident Coverage, Trip Interruption Coverage, Baggage Delay Reimbursement, Purchase Security and Cell Phone Protection.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Points never expire for the life of the account and there are no spend caps on point earning.
• Redeem points your way, on your schedule.
• A fee of 5% of the amount of each balance transfer, cash advance and convenience check applies.
• 19.15% to 27.40% variable regular APR.
• $95 annual fee.
• See Rates and Fees for details.
• Terms and Restrictions apply. See the Guide to Benefits and Reward Terms and Conditions on USAA’s website for details.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.15% to 27.40% variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

If you’re looking for a travel-focused, points-earning card from USAA, explore USAA Eagle Navigator^® Credit Card. This card earns 3x points on travel purchases. This means you earn triple points on tolls, ride-sharing, hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and more. Plus, you earn 2x points on everyday purchases like groceries, gas, dining, and bills.

This card also comes with benefits like an application fee credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry every 4 years, auto rental coverage, travel accident coverage, trip interruption coverage, baggage delay reimbursement, purchase security, and cell phone protection. Note that you must be a USAA member or become a member to apply.

For more options, check out all of the USAA credit cards and rewards options.

U.S. Bank

History

U.S. Bank National Association is the fifth-largest bank in the U.S. and the sixth-largest credit card issuer based on purchase volume. U.S. Bank operates under the second-oldest continuous national charter, granted in 1863.

The company offers many co-branded credit cards, with corporate partners like Ace, Club Carlson, Harley-Davidson, and Kroger. U.S. Bank rewards cards are also offered under the company’s FlexPerks brand name.

Our Favorite U.S. Bank Cards

U.S. Bank Smartly™ Visa Signature^® Card

The U.S. Bank Smartly card allows you to earn up to a massive 4% cash-back on up to $10,000 in purchases each billing cycle, depending on your level of deposits with eligible U.S. Bank checking accounts, all with no annual fee.

Visa

History

Visa is a credit card network that facilitates electronic funds transfers throughout the world, most commonly through Visa-branded credit cards, gift cards, and debit cards. Visa does not issue any of its own cards or extend credit. Visa is the U.S. largest card payment organization and the world’s second-largest (debit and credit cards combined), surpassed only by China UnionPay, based on the annual value of card payments transacted and the number of issued cards.

Our Favorite Visa Cards

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® 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.

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 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 75,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,500

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.74% - 27.99% 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 card application.

Good to Excellent

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
• 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
• 2x points on all other travel worldwide

Cons

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

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 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
• Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
• 10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.74% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is one of the most popular travel rewards cards on the market, and with benefits like 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3x points on dining and 2x on all other travel, no foreign transaction fees, and flexible redemption options (including transfer partners), it’s easy to see why. The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is one of our top picks for people who are brand-new to the world of points and miles.

Chase Freedom Flex^®

The Freedom Flex card earns 5% back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter, with no annual fee. The card can be extremely valuable when paired with a premium Chase Ultimate Rewards-earning card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or Chase Sapphire Preferred. This allows you to use the cash-back earned with your Freedom Flex card for one of the many Chase transfer partners.

Wells Fargo

History

Wells Fargo, founded in 1852, is the world’s fourth-largest bank by both market capitalization and total assets, as well as ranked number 40 on the 2024 Fortune 500. It was founded to meet the banking needs of pioneers during the California Gold Rush, and holds the first-ever banking charter issued by the U.S. government.

Wells Fargo is the eighth-largest credit card issuer in the U.S., with over 24 million cards in circulation.

Our Favorite Wells Fargo Card

Wells Fargo Active Cash^® Card

Wells Fargo Active 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.

The Wells Fargo Active Cash card earns 2% cash rewards on purchases with no annual fee.

Wells Fargo Active Cash^® Card

The Wells Fargo Active Cash card earns 2% cash rewards on purchases with no annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months

$200 cash rewards bonus

Annual Fee

$0

APR

0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 18.99%, 23.99% or 28.99% Variable APR thereafter.

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 (670-850)

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
• No annual fee
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 18.99%, 23.99% or 28.99% Variable APR thereafter (rates & fees)

Cons

• No bonus categories for those who want to optimize certain purchases

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Select “Learn More” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 18.99%, 23.99% or 28.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
• $0 annual fee.
• No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature^® Concierge.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 18.99%, 23.99% or 28.99% Variable APR thereafter.
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction converted to U.S. dollars.

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is a good choice if you want a card that offers a straightforward earning rate (2% cash rewards on all eligible purchases) without an annual fee.

Final Thoughts

Credit cards and the banks that issue them are dynamic industries that continue to grow rapidly as the world and our purchases become more globally connected.

Be sure to always take your time to research credit card offers and the companies behind them. Whether it is about your credit score, rewards program, or even the companies that issue the cards, the more you know the better.

For head-to-head comparisons of some of the most popular credit card companies, check out these posts:

• Amex vs. Chase cards
• Chase vs. Capital One cards