Whether you’re interested in playing the AA Loyalty Point Pursuit game or you want to pay your mortgage with a credit card, it’s helpful to have at least one highly rewarding Mastercard in your wallet. For the former, you need a Mastercard in order to earn American Airlines miles through SimplyMiles. And for the latter, you can use a Mastercard, but not an Amex or Visa, to pay your mortgage through Plastiq. So, which Mastercard should you get?
Welcome bonus vs ongoing rewards
Cards with the best initial signup bonuses are not always the best for ongoing rewards. For example, one of the best ongoing earning cards is the fee-free Citi Double Cash, which offers 2% cash back everywhere along with the ability to convert rewards to ThankYou points which can then be transferred to loyalty partners if you also have a Citi Premier or Prestige card. But the Double Cash card has no welcome bonus. That’s why I often recommend that people sign up for a personal credit card from Citibank that has a big welcome bonus and then later product change that card to the Double Cash. That way you can get the best of both worlds.
In the following sections, we’ll look at the best Mastercard signup bonuses, followed by the most rewarding Mastercards for everyday spend. We end with a discussion about best overall options.
Best Mastercard welcome bonuses
The following display shows the ten best current signup bonuses for Mastercard credit cards. Cards are sorted by our calculated “first year value”. This is the estimated value of first year rewards minus the “cost” to meet the minimum spend requirement (assuming that the alternative would be 3% cash back, as with the Discover It Miles first year).
If you’re interested in seeing more than the top 10 offers, simply click “Next” at the bottom of the page, or use the drop down selector at the top to show more than 10 items.
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![](http://cdn.nextinsure.com/imaging/opt/0a1a73c8-b137-4393-9ef9-2437b08b5b2b.png?w=300" alt="Capital One Spark Cash" />) ⓘ $1335 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $1,500 Cash Back ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer $1,500 after $15,000 spend in 3 months from account opening$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95 FM Mini Review: A good option for business owners who prefer simple cash back rewards. |
 ⓘ $1118 1st Yr Value Estimate5 60K IHG Free Nights valued at $1280 Click to learn about first year value estimates 5 x 60K Free Night Certificates ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer Five 60K free night certificates after $5K spend in 3 months after account opening.$99 Annual Fee This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details). Recent better offer: Five 60K free night certificates after $4K spend in 3 months (Expired 6/2/24) |
 ⓘ $985 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 75K Miles ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer 75k miles after $4k spend within first 3 months$95 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: 75k miles after $4k spend within first 3 months + a one-time $250 Capital One Travel credit to use in your first cardholder year FM Mini Review: This card earns 2 "miles" per dollar, which are worth exactly 1 cent each toward travel. This makes the return on spend similar to a 2% cash back card (though in this case you must redeem your miles to offset travel in order to get 1 cent per mile). One big advantage over cash back: Capital One allows transfering their "miles" to airline miles & hotel points. Click here for our complete card review |
 ⓘ $914 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 40K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 40K points after $2K spend in the first 3 billing cycles $99 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: 30K points after $1K spend in the first 3 billing cycles + 2 companion certificates, 2 upgrade certificates and 2 lounge passes |
 ⓘ $887 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 75K Points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer 75K points after $4K spend in the first 3 months.$95 Annual Fee This card is likely subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details). FM Mini Review: Great card for regular or frequent Air Canada flyers |
 ⓘ $842 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 65K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 65K miles after $4K spend in first 5 months$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99 Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: 75K miles after $5K spend in first 5 months (ended 5/22/25) FM Mini Review: This card usually has a great welcome offer, but if you're looking for a card to keep long term, you'll find better options. |
 ⓘ $811 1st Yr Value Estimate$100 companion voucher valued at $50 Click to learn about first year value estimates 65K Points + $100 Voucher Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 65K points plus $100 companion voucher after $1K spend in 90 days (enter any 110662 as "employee code")$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $79 Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. |
 ⓘ $787 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 70K miles + 100XP Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 70K miles + 40XP after $3K in the first 90 days + 60 XP upon approval$89 Annual Fee Alternate Offer: Some people get an offer for $100 statement credit while doing a dummy booking. Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Valuable primarily only for the welcome offer, then it should go off to the sock drawer unless you're interested in Flying Blue elite status. Click here for our complete card review |
 ⓘ $785 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 60K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 60K miles after $1k spend within first 90 days$99 Annual Fee Alternate Offer: Some are targeted by e-mail or mail for an 85K offer Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: 70K miles after one purchase within first 90 days |
 ⓘ $769 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 60K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 60K miles after $2k spend within first 90 days.$99 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: 70K miles after one purchase within first 90 days |
 ⓘ $741 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 60K Points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. 60,000 points after $4,000 spend in 3 months$95 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: 75k after $6 spend in 3 months (ended 4/8/25) FM Mini Review: Very strong earnings for spend. Excellent bonus categories. Points transferable to select airlines. Recommend pairing this card with Citi Double Cash Click here for our complete card review |
![](http://cdn.nextinsure.com/imaging/opt/e19aa472-38e5-4c90-9980-8ac54ecec6be.png?w=300" alt="Capital One Spark Miles for Business" />) ⓘ $716 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 50K Miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer Earn a one-time 50K miles bonus when you spend $4,500 in the first 3 months. (Rates & Fees)$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95 Note: Most Capital One Business credit cards (including this one) DO count against Chase's 5/24 Rule FM Mini Review: This card is similar to the Spark Cash Plus card, but it has the advantage that "miles" earned with this card can be transferred to a large number of airline & hotel programs. |
 ⓘ $704 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 140K points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer Earn 140K points after spending $4K on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.$99 Annual Fee This card is expected to be subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details). Recent better offer: 200K after $9k spend in 6 months (expired 4/30/25) |
 ⓘ $694 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 120K Points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer 120K points after $2K spend in 3 monthsNo Annual Fee FM Mini Review: A good no annual fee card for anyone who values the 4th night free benefit. |
 ⓘ $683 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 50K Miles ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer 50K after $4,500 spend in 3 months from account openingNo Annual Fee Note: Most Capital One Business credit cards (including this one) DO count against Chase's 5/24 Rule Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: This card is similar to the Spark Cash Select for Business, but rewards are intended to be used to offset travel purchases. This is a good option for business owners who prefer simple rewards with no annual fee, and who value free travel over cash back. If you spend more than $19K per year, though, go for the 2X Spark Miles card. |
 ⓘ $663 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 60K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 60K miles after $1K in spend in 90 days and payment of annual fee. $99 Annual Fee Note that the landing page prompts you to enter a mobile phone number to continue the application, but you can click "no thanks" to continue the application on your desktop device. Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: 70K miles after $1k spend in first 90 days (expired 6/5/25) FM Mini Review: Frequent JetBlue travelers should seriously consider this card for its terrific perks. The combination of the 10% rebate on awards and the annual 5,000 point bonus make this card a keeper. |
 ⓘ $658 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 50K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 50K miles after $2,500 spend in first 3 months $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99 Alternate Offer: There may be an alternative offer of 30K + $400 AA credit that can be found when doing a dummy booking on aa.com. Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: 75K miles after $3,500 spend in 3 months (ended 10/14/24) FM Mini Review: Excellent choice for a great intro bonus. Plus it offers the usual collection of perks for flying AA (free checked bag, priority boarding, etc.) |
 ⓘ $637 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 60K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 60K Miles after $3K spend in 90 days + payment of the annual fee$89 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: Expired 1/1/23: 100K Miles after $3K spend in 90 days |
 ⓘ $635 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 100K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. 100K miles after $10,000 spend in first 3 months$595 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Good choice for those who need Admirals Club® access and those who value the Loyalty Points boosts at 50K and 90K Loyalty Points earned. Plus, it offers the usual collection of perks for flying AA (free checked bag, priority boarding, etc.) and some handy credits for Avis or Budget rentals and GrubHub. |
 ⓘ $601 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 50K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 50K miles after 1st purchase and paying the annual fee within 90 days $99 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: Up to 75K: 60K miles after first purchase and 15K after adding an authorized user and making one purchase on that card [Expired 2/24/24] |
 ⓘ $587 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 50k Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 50k miles after spending $4,000 within the first 90 days$99 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: Expired 9/11/22: 80K + $99 statement credit after $2K spend in first 90 days |
 ⓘ $515 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 50K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 50K bonus miles after spending $2K in first 90 days$99 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: 50K bonus miles after spending $4K in first 90 days + additional 10K miles after a purchase is made on an employee card in the first 90 days FM Mini Review: This card is almost identical to the JetBlue Plus card except that this one offers Group A boarding and earns 2X at office supply stores rather than grocery stores. Both cards are great choices for JetBlue flyers. |
 ⓘ $445 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 75K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 75K (worth $750 as a deposit into eligible account) after $10K spend in 120 days$195 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: This card offers an excellent signup bonus. For ongoing use, it's effectively a 2% cashback card that increases to 2.5% for the first $5K in mobile wallet spend per quarter. |
 ⓘ $445 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $500 Cash Back Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler $500 after $5,000 spend in first 3 months.No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: On its own, this is a decent, no-annual fee 2% cash back card. However, when paired with the Autograph or Autograph Journey, those points become transferable to travel partners, making the uncapped 2x earnings much more appealing. |
![](http://cdn.nextinsure.com/imaging/opt/0a1a73c8-b137-4393-9ef9-2437b08b5b2b.png?w=300" alt="Capital One Spark Cash Select" />) ⓘ $428 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $500 Cash Back ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer One time bonus: $500 after $4,500 spend in 3 months from account opening. (Rates & Fees)No Annual Fee Note: Most Capital One Business credit cards (including this one) DO count against Chase's 5/24 Rule Recent better offer: Expired 9/9/24: $750 Cash Back after $6k spend in 3 months FM Mini Review: This is a good option for business owners looking for simple cash back rewards with no annual fee. If you spend $30,000 or more per year, though, you would be better off with the 2% Spark Cash Plus card. |
 ⓘ $420 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $500 statement credit Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler $500 statement credit after $5K spend in 90 daysNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. |
 ⓘ $416 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 50K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 50K points after $4K in 3 months$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95 Note that the ongoing annual fee is $0 if you maintain an HSBC Premier checking account (which requires $5K per month in direct deposits to remain fee-free) Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: This card may be worth it for the welcome offer and possibly for the annual rideshare benefit if you have an HSBC Premier checking account and can thus keep the card annual fee-free. Note that the points value is based on HSBC's stated value when redeemed for airfare via the HSBC portal. |
 ⓘ $410 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 40K Points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 40K after $3K spend in 90 days + 2.5k for adding an authorised user (up to 4)$99 Annual Fee Alternate Offer: Increased targeted offers may be available. Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: The Tier Points and annual 3rd night free at Virgin Hotels might be useful for some, especially with the anniversary bonus...but it's more "meh" than "yeah" for most of us. |
 ⓘ $402 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $600 OneKeyCash Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. $600 OneKeyCash after $3K spend in first 3 months$99 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Good bonus categories, especially when combined with the 2x base earning. The anniversary bonus more or less offsets the annual fee and being able to combine primary car rental insurance with 7x earning at Expedia could be valuable for some. |
 ⓘ $380 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 50K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler Earn 50K miles after $1000 in purchases in the first 90 days + instant Gold status with account opening & first purchase; maintain Gold status for 12 months with $3,000 in purchases within first 90 days. $99 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: Up to 100K miles: Earn 50K miles + $100 Frontier flight voucher after $500 in purchases in the first 90 days + instant Gold status with account opening & first purchase; maintain Gold status for 12 months with $3,000 in purchases within first 90 days. Plus, earn an additional 50,000 miles if you apply by 1/31/25, are approved, provide proof that you are the primary cardholder of a co-branded credit card with another US domestic airline, and complete $3,000 in purchases in the first 180 days. |
 ⓘ $378 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 60K Points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. 60K after $1K spend in first 3 monthsNo Annual Fee Alternate Offer: Choice members may be targeted for a higher offer Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Decent bonus for a no-annual fee card, but not a great keeper unless you value the Choice Gold Status |
 ⓘ $343 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $400 OneKeyCash Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. $400 OneKeyCash after $1K spend in first 3 monthsNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Good reward categories for a card with no annual fee. Could be a winner for folks who use Expedia, Hotels.com and/or vrbo frequently |
 ⓘ $303 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 40K Miles + 1 Year Silver status Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 40K after $3K spend in 90 days$99 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. |
ⓘ $302 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 12K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 12K points after $1K spend in the first 3 billing cyclesNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. |
 ⓘ $299 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 20K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. $200 cash back after spending $1.5K in first six months. Note: $200 is awarded as 20,000 ThankYou® Points.No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: 2X rewards for all spend with no annual fee makes this card a winner. Earn 2X everywhere and redeem for the equivalent of 2% cash back or 2X ThankYou points. Pair with the Premier or Prestige card to make points transferrable to airlines. Click here for our complete card review |
 ⓘ $292 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $200 cash back* ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer Earn $200 (*awarded as 20,000 points) after spending $500 in the first 3 monthsNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Great for 5X and 3x categories and World Mastercard benefits. Excellent companion card to Sapphire Reserve, Sapphire Preferred, or Ink Business Preferred. |
 ⓘ $284 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 20K miles ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer Earn 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Decent welcome offer for a card with no annual fee, but other cards offer better rewards for ongoing spend. |
 ⓘ $284 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $200 statement credit Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler $200 statement credit after $1K Spend in 3 MonthsNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: This has a good gas station bonus for a no annual fee card, but there's not much else to make it a compelling card |
 ⓘ $279 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 30K FunPoints Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 30K FunPoints after spending $1,000 within the first 90 days of account opening.No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Even for Carnival enthusiasts, there's not much to get excited about here. |
 ⓘ $276 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 20K Points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 20K points after $1500 spend in the first 6 monthsNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: Expired 9/13/22 - 20,000 points after $750 spend in first 3 months FM Mini Review: This is a great card to have and hold for a single category where you spend no more than $500 per month as it represents an excellent return without rotating categories to track. |
 ⓘ $263 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 38K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 38K miles after $3,000 spend in the first 90 days$99 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: Note that some received a targeted email offer for 65K miles after $5K spend in 90 days on the old version of the card |
 ⓘ $252 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 30K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. 30K after $3K spend in 90 daysNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. |
 ⓘ $248 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 70K Miles + 1 Year Gold status Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 70K after $3K spend in 90 days$499 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. |
 ⓘ $237 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $300 statement credit Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. $300 statement credit after $3K spend in 90 daysNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: This can be a very appealing card for the $50,000/year in 3% bonus categories...and it becomes downright sexy if you have Preferred Rewards as well. |
 ⓘ $234 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 60K Points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. 60K after $3K spend in first 3 months$95 Annual Fee Alternate Offer: Choice members may be targeted for a higher offer Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Worth getting for the welcome offer and keeping for the 30,000 anniversary points. The 5x categories could also be interesting for some. |
 ⓘ $207 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $300 Cash Back Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler $300 after $3000 spend in 90 daysNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: No rewards on everyday purchases, but a nice sign-up bonus for a no annual fee card. |
 ⓘ $202 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 15K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. Earn 15K AA miles after $500 spend in 3 monthsNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Not bad for grocery spend if you highly value AA miles |
 ⓘ $194 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $225 Cash Back Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler $75 statement credit for every $500 spent within the first 90 days, up to $225No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Shop Your Way points are worth .85 cents each and can only be used towards specific gift cards and merchandise. But where this card shines is with its regular offers that start to appear after putting spend on the card, often giving 10-15x cash back or Thank You Points on various categories of purchases. It's a keeper because of it. |
 ⓘ $192 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $200 Cash Back ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer One time bonus: $200 after $500 spend in 3 months from account opening. No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: While you can do better with a 2% cash back card that has no annual fee, the Quicksilver card often offers excellent discounts with popular services such as Spotify. |
 ⓘ $191 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 60K Miles + 5 tiles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 60K miles + 5 tiles after $5K in spend in 90 days and payment of annual fee. $499 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: 70K miles + 5 tiles after $5K in spend in 90 days and payment of annual fee. (Expired 6/5/25) FM Mini Review: This card is difficult to justify, even for the welcome offer. Note also the $150 fee per authorized user. While cardholders will get access to JetBlue lounges when those open, the first of two that have been announced is scheduled to open in late 2025. Until JetBlue lounges open, the perks just don't justify the annual fee. Consider the JetBlue Plus card instead, though note that those who have or have had the Plus card aren't eligible for the Premier card. |
 ⓘ $190 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $200 Cash Back ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer One time bonus: $200 after $500 spend in 3 months from account opening. No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. |
 ⓘ $189 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $200 Back Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler $200 back after $1K spend in 3 monthsNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: 2% cashback everywhere is decent, but this card doesn't really have anything to separate it from any other 2% cashback card. |
 ⓘ $179 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $200 Cash Back Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler $200 after $1000 spend in 90 daysNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. |
 ⓘ $179 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 20K Points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 20K after $1K spend in the first 90 daysNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Points are worth $0.01 each toward onboard credit or cruise purchase with Norwegian. Note that points expire 5 years after they are earned regardless of activity. This card offers very poor value for ongoing spend after meeting the welcome offer spend requirements. Interestingly, it appears to be eligible for Bank of America Preferred Rewards, which would increase the bonus categories by as much as 75% for those with Bank of America's top-tier Platinum Honors. |
 ⓘ $170 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 25K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 25K after $1K in first 90 days$59 Annual Fee Alternate Offer: You may be targeted for an offer including a $100 statement credit during a dummy booking. Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Points are worth $0.01 each toward airfare and do not expire unless you cancel the card. If you cancel the card, you forfeit all points. Between that policy and the annual fee, this card probably isn't worth it in most scenarios. |
 ⓘ $137 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $200 cash back Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 20K points (worth $200) after $3K spend in the first 60 daysNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Effectively a 2% cashback card on bonuses categories. Outside of the welcome offer, there's not much that's exciting here. |
 ⓘ $112 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 10K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 10K points after $1K spend in 90 days. No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Not bad for a no annual fee airline card. |
 ⓘ $111 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 10K Points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 10K after $500 spend in 90 daysNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. |
 ⓘ $95 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $100 Cash Back Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler One time bonus: $100 after $300 spend in 3 months from account opening. No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: You can do better with a 2% cash back card that has no annual fee. |
 ⓘ $91 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $100 Cash back Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler $100 cash back after $500 spend in the first 90 daysNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: Expired 10/31/22: $150 after $500 in spend FM Mini Review: This card could be decent for an easy cash back bonus, but there are much more rewarding options for ongoing everyday spend. |
 ⓘ $90 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $100 Cash Back Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler $100 after $500 spend in 90 daysNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. |
 ⓘ $90 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates $100 Cash Back Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler $100 after $500 spend in first 3 months.No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: This could be a good fit for those who spend a lot in the card's 4X categories. |
 ⓘ $79 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 40K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 40K miles after $2,500 spend within the first three months$99 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Only for hardened LATAM loyalists, this card has little appeal due to the low value of LATAM Pass points. |
 ⓘ $79 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 10K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 10K points after $1K spend in the first 3 billing cycles No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: MGM loyalists would probably do better with the Iconic card, everyone else would do better with any other card. |
 ⓘ $65 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 15K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 15K miles after $1,000 spend within the first three monthsNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Even with no annual fee, this card has little appeal due to the low value of LATAM Pass points. |
 ⓘ $46 1st Yr Value Estimate$200 MGM resort credit valued at $100 Click to learn about first year value estimates 30K points + $200 Resort Credit Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 30K points after $5K spend in the first 3 billing cycles + $200 resort credit on account opening. $249 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. Recent better offer: 40K points + 10K tier credits after $5K spend in the first 3 billing cycles + $200 resort credit on account opening. (Expired 6/1/25) FM Mini Review: Could be a decent option for MGM loyalists who spend at MGM resorts. |
 ⓘ $21 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 60K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 60K after $4K spend in 3 months$495 Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Points are worth 1.5c each when redeemed for airfare through the HSBC portal. Could be worthwhile for a welcome offer, but not rewarding enough to justify keeping beyond the first year. |
 ⓘ $0 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates Free DashPass Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler Receive 12 months of DashPass for free upon approvalNo Annual Fee This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule. Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Could be worth considering for folks who spend a lot on DoorDash and restaurants. |
 ⓘ $0 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates None Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: This card isn't ordinarily worth a look with only 1.8% cash back. |
 ⓘ $0 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates None Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler No Annual Fee Alternate Offer: Earn a $250 Amazon gift card after $1k spend with our referral link Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Given the recent downward spiral of Brex, there's probably better places to concentrate business spending. |
 ⓘ $0 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 0% APR Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 0% introductory APR for the first 12 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers after account is opened. After that, a variable rate will apply.No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Although this is marketed as a travel card, it's really cashback, since the rewards can be used for travel, a statement credit or an ACH transfer at the same rate. 3% back on dining, travel and gas is pretty good for a no annual-fee card, especially with no foreign transaction fees. |
 ⓘ $0 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates None Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler This card no longer offers a welcome offer.No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: With most of this card's category bonuses, you can do better with other cards. If you do find a useful category and max out the $2K spend each quarter, you'll come out only $80 ahead per year compared to using a 2% cash back card. |
 ⓘ $0 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates None Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler There is currently no welcome offerNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: This card could be a good option for someone looking for a 2% cash back Mastercard, though keep in mind that the Citi DoubleCash is a competitor that earns at the same rate while offering points which could become transferable to airline partners, whereas the SoFi credit card only earns cash back rewards. |
 ⓘ $0 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates None Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler No Welcome OfferNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Excellent cash back card for PayPal spend. |
 ⓘ $0 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates No Welcome Offer Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler No Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: Excellent cash back card for everyday spend with no foreign transaction fee. |
 ⓘ $0 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates None ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer There is no official welcome offer, but this card offers the opportunity to earn 1x points on rent when you make at least 5 transactions per billing cycle. Terms apply.No Annual Fee Note that some people see a targeted offer in the Bilt Rewards app to earn 5x points for the first 5 days after being approved and receiving and activating the card. This is not guaranteed, but rather is targeted. Select 'Click Here to Apply' to learn more about the product features, terms and conditions. FM Mini Review: If you pay rent and haven't been earning rewards, this card is a no-brainer as you can pay your rent and earn rewards with no annual fee. A surprisingly good set of transfer partners makes the rewards for using this for rent worth getting the card for that main purpose alone (as long as you remember to use the card 5 times per month). |
 ⓘ $-20 1st Yr Value EstimateClick to learn about first year value estimates 3% back for 12 months Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler 3% cash back for 12 months on up to $20K in purchasesNo Annual Fee Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy. FM Mini Review: While the headline is 3% back for a year, the welcome offer itself is an extra 1.5% back on up to $20K in purchases for the first year. That's certainly not a bad return on otherwise unbonused spend, but many other cards on the market that provide even moderately good welcome offers give a greater net return with significantly less spend. |
Most rewarding Mastercards for everyday spend
The following display shows the ten most rewarding Mastercard credit cards for everyday spend (meaning: spend not within a bonus category). Cards are limited to those that one can sign up for today and are sorted by the estimated value of each card’s base spend.
If you’re interested in seeing more than the top 10 offers, simply click “Next” at the bottom of the page, or use the drop down selector at the top to show more than 10 items.
| Card Info Name and Earning Rate (no offer) |
|---|
Earning rate: 2% cash back everywhere (1% cash back for each purchase + 1% when paying your credit card bill for that purchase). ✦ Earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi TravelSM Portal through 12/31/25. Base: 2X (3%) |
Earning rate: 2X miles everywhere ✦ 5X miles on hotels, vacations rentals and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel |
Earning rate: 2X Miles everywhere ✦ Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacations rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One's travel booking site Base: 2X (2.9%) |
Earning rate: 2X Amtrak ✦ 2X dining ✦ 1X elsewhere |
Earning rate: ✦ 3X Amtrak ✦ 2X qualifying travel, dining, transit, and rideshare ✦ 1X elsewhere |
Earning rate: 1.5X miles everywhere ✦ Earn 5X miles on hotel and rental car bookings through Capital One's travel booking site Base: 1.5X (2.18%) |
Earning rate: 2% everywhere ✦ 5% on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One's travel booking site Base: 2% |
Earning rate: 3% cash back when you check out with PayPal ✦ 1.5% cash back everywhere else Base: 2% Brand: 3% |
Earning rate: 3% cash back when you check out with PayPal ✦ 2% cash back everywhere else Base: 2% Brand: 3% |
Earning rate: 6x prepaid hotel & car rental through Altitude Rewards Center ✦ 2.5X mobile wallet payments (on up to $5,000 spend per quarter) Base: 2% Shop: 2.5% Other: 6% |
Earning rate: 3X on Air France, KLM, and SkyTeam purchases ✦ 1.5X everywhere else |
Earning rate: 10X IHG ✦ 5X travel, gas stations, restaurants and dining, social media and search engine advertising, office supply stores ✦ 3X on all other purchases |
Earning rate: 1.25X miles everywhere ✦ 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel |
Earning rate: 1.8% back everywhere (1.9% back if you have a Citizens Quest checking account) Base: 1.8% Dine: 1.8% Gas: 1.8% Other: 1.8% |
Earning rate: Must use your card for 5 purchases per month, then: 3x Dining ✦ 3x Lyft ✦ 2x Travel ✦ 1x rent (one payment per month, up to 100,000 points per year) ✦ 1x on other purchases |
Earning rate: 1.5% everywhere; Earn up to 2.625% back everywhere with Bank of America Platinum Honors status. Note that you'll need Preferred Rewards on the business side ("Preferred Rewards for Business") to earn a greater return. Base: 1.5% |
Earning rate: 1.5X everywhere; 3X for travel booked through BOA's travel center Base: 1.5% Travel: 3% |
Earning rate: 1.5% everywhere ✦ 5% on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel ✦ 5% on Capital One Entertainment through 12/31/25 Base: 1.5% Other: 5% |
Earning rate: 1.5% everywhere ✦ 5% on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One's travel booking site Base: 1.5% |
Earning rate: 5x travel booked through Chase Travel℠ ✦ 5X Lyft through September 2027 ✦ 3x dining ✦ 3x drugstores ✦ 5X in rotating categories on up to $1,500 spend per quarter (Q2 2025: Amazon, Streaming Services) |
Earning rate: ✦ 3 points per $1 at gas stations ✦ 2 points per $1 at grocery stores ✦ 1 point per $1 on all other purchases |
Earning rate: 5x on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1x thereafter. Eligible categories: Restaurants, Gas Stations, Grocery Stores, Select Travel, Select Transit, Select Streaming Services, Drugstores, Home Improvement Stores, Fitness Clubs and Live Entertainment. ✦ 1x on all other purchases |
Earning rate: 2X AA ✦ 1X everywhere else |
Earning rate: 3X Air Canada ✦ 3X grocery stores ✦ 3X dining ✦ 500 bonus points with each $2K calendar month spend, up to $6K spend per month (1,500 points max) ✦ 1X everywhere else |
Earning rate: 2X restaurants ✦ 2X gas ✦ 2X AA |
Earning rate: 2X grocery ✦ 2X AA ✦ 1X everywhere else |
Earning rate: 4X AA ✦ 10X hotels booked through AA.com/Hotels ✦ 10X car rentals booked through AA.com/Cars ✦ 1X everywhere else |
Earning rate: 2X restaurants and grocery ✦ 6X JetBlue & Paisley ✦ 1X everywhere else |
Earning rate: 2X restaurants and grocery ✦ 6X JetBlue ✦ 1X everywhere else |
Earning rate: ✦ 2X restaurants and office supply stores ✦ 6X JetBlue ✦ 1X everywhere else |
Earning rate: ✦ 2X restaurants and grocery ✦ 3X JetBlue ✦ 1X everywhere else✦ |
Earning rate: 2X Miles & More |
Earning rate: Earn 1.529% back on your purchases when your Upromise Program account is linked to an eligible College Savings Plan or 1.25% if it is not ✦ Up to $250 cashback rewards per calendar year on gift card purchases at MyGiftCardsPlus Base: 1.25% |
Earning rate: 3X Spirit ✦ 2X dining & grocery ✦ 1X everywhere else |
Earning rate: 3X Emirates ✦ 2X airfare, hotel, and car rentals ✦ 1X everywhere else |
Earning rate: 3X Emirates ✦ 2X airfare, hotel, and car rentals ✦ 1X everywhere else |
Earning rate: ✦ 3X Cathay Pacific & Hong Kong Express ✦ 2X dining & dining delivery services ✦ 1X everywhere else |
Earning rate: 5X at FlyFrontier.com ✦ 3X restaurants |
Earning rate: 2X Carnival ✦ 1X everywhere else |
Earning rate: 3% drugstores and gas stations ✦ 2% medical expenses ✦ 1% everywhere else Base: 1% Gas: 3% Other: 3% |
Earning rate: 3% airfare, hotel stays, and car rentals ✦ 2% restaurants ✦ 1% everywhere else Base: 1% Travel: 3% Dine: 2% |
Earning rate: 2% on dining plus 3% on 1 choice from: gas stations and EV charging stations (default), office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom & wireless, computer services or business consulting services (for the first $50,000 in combined choice/dining purchases each calendar year, 1% thereafter) and 1% everywhere else. Base: 1% Travel: 3% Dine: 2% Gas: 3% Phone: 3% Office: 3% Biz: 3% |
Earning rate: 3x Norwegian cruise line purchases ✦ 2x air and hotel |
Earning rate: 3x Allegiant ✦ 2x dining |
Earning rate: 3% on dining, entertainment, select streaming services, and purchases at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®) ✦ 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases ✦ 5% on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel (terms apply) ✦ 1% everywhere else Base: 1% Dine: 3% Grocery: 3% Other: 3% |
Earning rate: ✦ 4% back on DoorDash and Caviar orders ✦ 3% back on dining ✦ 2% back at grocery stores ✦ 1% everywhere else Base: 1% Dine: 3% Grocery: 2% Brand: 4% |
Earning rate: 2X Gas ✦ 2X Grocery ✦ 2X Travel ✦ 1X elsewhere Base: 1% Travel: 2% Gas: 2% Grocery: 2% Brand: 2% |
Earning rate: ✦ 3X MGM ✦ 2X gas stations and grocery stores ✦ 1X elsewhere |
Earning rate: ✦ 3X Travel, Dining and Gas ✦ 1X everywhere else Base: 1% Travel: 3% Dine: 3% Gas: 3% |
Earning rate: 2x travel (includes airlines, hotels, and car rentals) Base: 1% Travel: 2% |
Earning rate: 5X travel (includes airlines, hotels, and car rentals) ✦ 2X dining ✦ 1X everywhere else Base: 1% Travel: 5% Dine: 2% |
Earning rate: 3% cash back on up to $2K in spend in the category you choose each quarter: gas stations, travel & entertainment, restaurants, discount & warehouse stores, grocery stores, utilities & office supply stores, electronics and computer and camera stores, department and apparel and sporting good stores, auto parts & service, and home improvement stores Base: 1% Travel: 3% Dine: 3% Gas: 3% Grocery: 3% Shop: 3% Office: 3% Biz: 3% Other: 3% |
Earning rate: 4X self-care (gym memberships, at spas / massage parlors, and barber shops / salons) ✦ 4X sports, recreation, and entertainment ✦ 4X "planet-friendly purchases" like EV charging stations, riding public transportation, and purchasing select second hand and vintage ✦ 1X everywhere else Base: 1% Other: 4% |
Earning rate: 3x LATAM ✦ 2x dining, rideshare and public transit ✦ 1x everywhere else |
Earning rate: 4x LATAM ✦ 3x dining, rideshare and public transit ✦ 1x everywhere else |
Cards shown above are sorted by the value of the “Base” rebate in descending order based on our Reasonable Redemption Values (RRVs), or by their fixed redemption value with cash back cards. It’s worth noting that transferable points are assigned higher Reasonable Redemption Values since they make it possible to cherry pick the best value awards. In some cases this will be unintuitive: For example, the Double Cash card is advertised as a cash back card offering 2% cash back. However, if you have a Premier or Prestige card, you can convert Double Cash rewards to ThankYou points and then transfer those points to airline or hotel programs in order to get even better value.
Note that two excellent earners are not shown above because they require Bank of America’s “elite status:” Platinum Honors Preferred Rewards for Business. To get this status, you need to have $100,000 invested in business accounts with Bank of America and/or Merrill. With that status, these cards offer great return on everyday spend:
| Card Info Name and Earning Rate (no offer) |
|---|
Earning rate: 1.5% everywhere; Earn up to 2.625% back everywhere with Bank of America Platinum Honors status Base: 2.625% |
Earning rate: With Platinum Honors status with Bank of America's Business Advantage Relationship Rewards program, this card earns: 2.625X points for all spend (and 5.25X for travel purchased through BOA's travel center) Base: 2.625% |
Recommendations
If you simply want to earn as many rewards as possible while paying your mortgage, then I’d recommend simply starting at the top of the list of best welcome bonuses and pick the first one you can qualify for (and which you’d be able to meet minimum spend). Once the card comes, you can use Plastiq to pay your mortgage with the Mastercard for a 2.85% fee in order to meet the offer’s spend requirements. Once you’ve met the minimum spend requirements for a new card, sign up for another card and use that to pay your mortgage. It doesn’t usually make sense to keep paying your mortgage on a card after you earn the initial bonus because the rewards won’t outweigh Plastiq’s fee (2.85% as I write this). Once a card’s annual fee comes due for the second year, then either downgrade it to a fee-free card or cancel it.
If you want a Mastercard for playing the AA Loyalty Point Pursuit game (since SimplyMiles only works with Mastercards), then the Citi Double Cash is your best bet. It’s a great card to have for everyday spend, it has no annual fee, and it can qualify for Citi Merchant Offers which are similar to Amex Offers and Chase Offers. As I wrote earlier in the post, though, you may be better off starting with a Citi Mastercard that offers a nice welcome bonus. The best current Citi offer is for the Premier card, but you wouldn’t want to product change that one to the Double Cash because you would then lose any ThankYou points you’ve earned. A better bet is the AAdvantage Platinum Select card. Since rewards from that card are stored with American Airlines rather than Citibank, you can product change that card to the Double Cash without risking losing rewards. As an aside, I still think that the Premier card is a great option, in general, but don’t get it with the intent to change it to the Double Cash.
Another consideration for those playing the AA Loyalty Point Pursuit game is that various deals may stack with both SimplyMiles and card-linked offers from Chase, Citi, Bank of America, etc. and so it would be great to have at least one Mastercard from each. Chase currently has great welcome offers for a number of Mastercards: the Aeroplan card, IHG Premier card, and Freedom Flex. Bank of America has decent offers (but not spectacular) for Mastercards such as: Air France KLM, Free Spirit Travel More, Sonesta, as well as a few business cards.
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What card do you recommend opening and then downgrading to the double cash back Citi card?
Does the Aadvantage Platinum Select Card itself come with access to Citi Merchant Offers?
Given comments here I gather the AA card cannot access Merchant Offers https://www.reddit.com/r/CreditCards/comments/l80heu/citi_merchant_offers/. In light of the issues others are reporting here with product changes to Double Cash, I will likely try to product change an existing card I have and, if the change is not possible, will apply directly for a new card.
Thanks for this – I was lamenting my complete lack of MasterCards. Ended up going with the CitiBusiness AAdvantage. Easy approval and keeps me under 5/24 for now. Let the games begin. (In 7-10 business days.)
Please, no more of the silly photos of Greg mugging and musing. It just cheapens the fine work you all do.
I like the photos, lol.
Is there a way to pay your ongoing mortgage thru Plastiq at a bonused credit card earnings rate > than the Plastiq fee? Alternatively, does Plastiq have any lower promotional rates that might be competitive with a non-bonused Citi 2% card?
Great article! One thing I would challenge (for some people) is the recommendation of the Citi Double Cash for people focused on playing the AA Loyalty Points game. I assume some/most of the stuff on SimplyMiles would code as online shopping in which case, those that have BofA’s Platinum Honors can get 5.25% back with their Customized Cash Rewards card if you select online shopping as your category. (It’s listed in your Best Offers section as a Visa Signature, but they also have a Mastercard version)
Great suggestion! I forget: is there a predictable way to sign up for the MasterCard version?
Not to my knowledge. I got it in 2017, and it was Visa.
JFYI I tried to PC from Premier to Double Cash last week and was told Citi has restricted that card from product changes until Q2 2022 as they “rethink certain benefits.”
Well that’s concerning. I hope this is one of those very common situations where a rep is mistaken.
I PC’d to the Rewards+ in the meantime but have a reminder on 4/1/2022 to try and PC from that to the Double Cash. Maybe we’ll have more info by then, but if not I’ll let you know how that goes!
I tried to PC an old Expedia card to the Double Cash earlier this week as well and they didn’t let me do that either… instead forcing me to get the Custom Cash for a year, then saying I could change that to the Double Cash after a year is up on the Custom (she made it sound like that was there were no direct PC’s from Expedia to Double Cash, but you had to have an intermediary year with the Custom Cash)