Why Nearly Every Purchase Should Be on a Credit Card
Credit cards offer convenience, security, credit building, easier budgeting, and rewards. Using credit cards doesn't mean going into debt or paying interest if managed responsibly.
Top Credit Card Rewards and Features
- Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Earns 6% cash back on up to $6,000 per year at U.S. supermarkets, then 1% thereafter (terms apply). It also offers 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
- Discover it® Cash Back: Offers 5% cash back on up to $1,500 quarterly in categories you activate, and 1% on other purchases. In 2024, restaurants were the 5% category in the first quarter. In 2023, gas stations were featured as a 5% category for one quarter.
- Chase Freedom Flex®: Provides 3% cash back at restaurants for nine months, and 5% cash back on up to $1,500 quarterly in activated categories, plus 1% on other purchases. In 2023, gas and EV stations were 5% categories for a quarter. Amazon.com was a bonus category for three months in 2023.
- Citi Double Cash® Card: Earns 2% cash back on all purchases—1% at the time of purchase and 1% upon payment.
"Credit cards are convenient and secure, help build credit, make budgeting easier, and earn rewards. And no, you don't have to go into debt or pay interest."
These cards offer various bonus categories that rotate quarterly, encouraging strategic spending to maximize rewards across common expenses like groceries, gas, restaurants, and online shopping.
Maximizing Credit Card Rewards
- Activate bonus categories each quarter to earn higher cash back.
- Use cards with specific category rewards aligned with your spending habits.
- Pay balances in full each month to avoid interest charges.
By selecting the right cards and using them intentionally, consumers can enhance their financial management and gain valuable rewards without extra cost.