In today’s economy, savvy consumers are constantly seeking ways to maximize every dollar they spend. One of the most effective strategies is using a cashback credit card — a powerful financial tool that rewards your everyday purchases by returning a percentage of what you spend as cash back. With countless credit cards on the market, finding the one that offers the best cashback rates can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top credit cards with the highest cashback rates in 2025 to help you make an informed decision and boost your earnings.
Whether you spend most on groceries, gas, dining, or online shopping, there’s a cashback card tailored to fit your lifestyle. Let’s dive into the top contenders.
1. Citi® Double Cash Card
Cashback Rate:
- 2% total cash back (1% when you buy + 1% when you pay off the purchase)
The Citi® Double Cash Card remains a fan favorite in 2025 for its straightforward rewards system. You earn 2% cash back on every purchase — no rotating categories, no activation required, and no caps.
Why it’s great:
- Simple and flat-rate cash back
- No annual fee
- 0% intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers
Best for: People who want uncomplicated rewards on everything they buy.
2. Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Cashback Rate:
- 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000/year, then 1%)
- 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming services
- 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit
- 1% on other purchases
For families and foodies, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card is one of the highest-earning cards available. The 6% cash back at supermarkets alone can save hundreds annually.
Why it’s great:
- High rewards on groceries and streaming
- Generous welcome offer
- Purchase protection benefits
Annual fee: $95
Best for: Heavy grocery spenders and streamers.
3. Chase Freedom Flex℠
Cashback Rate:
- Earn 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories, up to $1,500 each quarter. After reaching that limit, you’ll earn 1% cash back on additional purchases.
- 5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- 3% on dining and drugstores
- 1% on all other purchases
With no annual fee and a wide range of high-earning categories, Chase Freedom Flex℠ is an excellent choice for users who don’t mind tracking quarterly bonus categories.
Why it’s great:
- Versatile bonus categories
- Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards points
- Cell phone protection
Best for: Users who optimize rotating categories.
4. Discover it® Cash Back
Cashback Rate:
- Earn 5% on rotating quarterly categories for purchases up to $1,500, after which the rate drops to 1%.
- 1% on all other purchases
One of the standout features of the Discover it® Cash Back card is its Cashback Match — at the end of your first year, Discover matches all the cash back you earned, effectively doubling your rewards.
Why it’s great:
- Cashback Match doubles your first-year earnings
- No annual fee
- Freeze-it® feature for added security
Best for: First-time cashback credit card users looking to maximize rewards in the first year.
5. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Cashback Rate:
- 2% unlimited cash back on all purchases
This card offers a flat 2% back on everything you buy, similar to Citi Double Cash, but with added perks like cellphone protection.
Why it’s great:
- Unlimited 2% cash back
- No annual fee
- Intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers
Best for: People who want flat rewards without category tracking plus some extra perks.
6. Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Cashback Rate:
- 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery stores
- 1% on all other purchases
If dining out and entertainment are where your dollars go, the Capital One SavorOne Card has strong category rewards and no annual fee.
Why it’s great:
- High rewards on food and fun
- No annual fee
- Access to Capital One Dining and entertainment experiences
Best for: Social butterflies who love restaurants, concerts, and streaming.
7. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
Cashback Rate:
- Get 3% cash back in a category you choose: gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drugstores, or home improvement.
- 2% cashback at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined 3% and 2% quarterly purchases).
- 1% on all other purchases
This card stands out by letting you choose your highest-earning category — and if you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%–75% more cash back.
Why it’s great:
- Flexible bonus category selection
- Bonus for Bank of America customers
- No annual fee
Best for: Bank of America customers and people with changing spending habits.
8. U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
Cashback Rate:
- 5% on two categories of your choice (up to $2,000 in combined purchases each quarter)
- 2% on one everyday category (like gas or grocery stores)
- 1% on all other purchases
The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card is one of the few cards that lets you pick your 5% categories — giving you control over where you earn most.
Why it’s great:
- Customizable bonus categories
- No annual fee
- $200 sign-up bonus
Best for: People who like customizing rewards.
How to Choose the Best Cashback Credit Card
Before diving into an application, it’s crucial to assess your personal spending habits and lifestyle. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Spending Categories
Where do you spend the most? Groceries, dining, gas, travel, or online shopping? Choose a card that rewards your biggest expenses.
2. Annual Fees
Cards with higher cashback rates sometimes come with an annual fee. Make sure your cash back earnings will outweigh the cost.
3. Rotating vs. Flat Rate
If you don’t want to keep track of changing categories, a flat-rate card like Citi Double Cash or Wells Fargo Active Cash may be best. Otherwise, rotating or customizable categories can maximize returns if managed well.
4. Sign-Up Bonuses
Introductory bonuses can give your cashback a head start — many cards offer $150–$300 after meeting spending requirements.
5. Additional Perks
Cell phone protection, travel insurance, purchase protection, and no foreign transaction fees can add even more value.
Tips for Maximizing Cashback Rewards
To get the most out of your cashback credit card, keep these strategies in mind:
- Pair cards strategically: Use different cards for different spending categories to maximize rewards.
- Pay your balance in full: Avoid interest charges that can negate your cashback earnings.
- Track bonus categories: For rotating category cards, set reminders to activate them each quarter.
- Leverage sign-up bonuses: Time big purchases to meet minimum spend requirements for bonuses.
- Redeem wisely: Some cards offer more value when cash back is used as statement credit versus direct deposit or gift cards.
Cashback credit cards are a smart and accessible way to earn rewards on everyday purchases. Whether you prefer a no-fuss flat rate or like to optimize bonus categories, there’s a perfect card for your wallet. The top credit cards with the highest cashback rates in 2025 combine lucrative rewards, minimal fees, and valuable perks.
