While plenty of retailers have their own credit cards to earn a percentage back on a purchase or 0% interest for 6 to 12 months (along with astronomical interest rates if you don’t pay it off each month), many third party cards offer expanded options for rewards at your everyday retailers and other companies.

Here’s a collection of the top 5 cards you should be looking at as we move into the third quarter of 2021.

1. Chase Freedom

Between October 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021, the Chase Freedom card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at Walmart and all purchases using PayPal.

The Walmart category appears to be specific to physical Walmart locations and not Walmart.com purchases. However, this likely means that all grocery purchases will quality at Walmart superstore locations or Walmart specific grocery stores.

Beyond normal purchases using PayPal at checkout, PayPal’s qualifying transactions include money transfers through the Friends and Family service as well as point-to-point transactions. It does not include the Xoom transfer service.

Outside of the 5% cashback categories, be aware that Chase lets you activate bonus offers that rotate out every couple weeks. These can be targeted at a specific dollar amount off or a percentage off. Some popular ones this month include $75 back from AT&T wireless, 15% back off purchases at Burger King and 15% off any purchases at JC Penney.

2. Discover it Cashback

Between October 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021, the Discover it Cashback card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) on all purchases at Amazon.com, Walmart.com and Target.com.

This includes all purchases on these sites or through the corresponding mobile apps. Regarding Amazon, this means you can earn 5% back on your Prime subscription, any digital purchase, or any purchase made at any physical location like Amazon Go, Amazon Bookstore, and Amazon 4-Star. It does not include purchases made at Whole Foods.

3. AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card (Annual Fee Required)

Between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card offers 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $360 back on $6,000 in purchases) as well as 6% on streaming subscriptions & 3% on transit.

This card can be particularly useful for anyone with large families that spends quite a bit at the supermarket each month. It’s also good for the entire year (not specific to Q4), thus you can continue to save at the grocery store for 12 months.

The only downside is the $95 annual fee (waived for 1st year), but that’s easily mitigated with the $150 back on $3000 of purchases for new customers (first 6 months) as well as the $200 back on $1000 in Amazon purchases (first 6 months). If you don’t want the annual fee, you can step down to the Blue Cash Everyday card (which offers 3% back at grocery stores, same cap on total purchases).

4. US Bank Cash+ Visa Card

The US Bank Cash Plus card is unique due to the fact that you can select the cashback categories that you want each quarter. After you sign up, you can select two different 5% cashback categories as well as one 2% cashback category.

For instance, if you know you want to buy a new couch soon, you can select the furniture store category to get 5% back on your purchase. Other 5% categories this quarter include electronics stores, utilities, gyms, department stores and fast food. The 2% categories include grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.

5. Capital One SavorOne Rewards Card

If you like going out for dinner and entertainment, the Capital One SavorOne Card is excellent for year-round purchases. You can earn unlimited 3% cashback on all dining, grocery stores, tickets, and entertainment options like streaming services. The card also offers a $200 cash bonus if you spend $500 within the first three months. There’s no annual fee with this card.

Be aware that there’s an alternative card with a $95 annual fee that offers 4% on dining & entertainment as well as a higher cash bonus at the start. But you would need to spend an additional $9,500 on dining / entertainment per year just to cover the annual fee versus the 3% option.

Bonus: The Best Retailer Cards

As mentioned earlier, the best store cards are offered by Amazon and Target. Both retailers offer cards that offer 5% cashback without any cap on total purchases for the year. Popular cards include:

• Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card: 5% back on Whole Foods purchases, 2% back at restaurants / gas / drugstores, 1% back on everything else.
• Target RedCard: Free shipping on all Target.com purchases and additional 30 days for returning items. (Usually $40 off $40 coupon for signup)
• Lowe’s Advantage Card: Offers 5% cashback on all purchases. 6 months special financing on $299 or more purchases
• Costco Anywhere Visa Card: Offers 2% back on all Costco purchases, 4% back on gas, 3% back at restaurants

Here’s the Top Five Credit Card Rewards for Q4 2021

While plenty of retailers have their own credit cards to earn a percentage back on a purchase or 0% interest for 6 to 12 months (along with astronomical interest rates if you don’t pay it off each month), many third party cards offer expanded options for rewards at your everyday retailers and other companies.

Here’s a collection of the top 5 cards you should be looking at as we move into the third quarter of 2021.

1. Chase Freedom

Between July 1, 2021 and September 30, 2021, the Chase Freedom card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at grocery stores and select streaming services.

Beyond typical, grocery stores, this category does not include superstores like Target and Walmart that include grocery stores. It also doesn’t include warehouse clubs like CostCo & Sam’s Club as well as drugstores like Walgreens and CVS.

Streaming services included in the promotion are  Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, Netflix, Sling, Vudu, Fubo TV, Apple Music, SiriusXM, Pandora, Spotify and YouTube TV.

2. Discover it Cashback

Between July 1, 2021 and September 30, 2021, the Discover it Cashback card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at restaurants and PayPal.

On restaurants, this promotion includes all full services restaurants, cafes, cafeterias and fast food locations. PayPal’s qualifying transactions include money transfers through the Friends and Family service as well as point-to-point transactions. It does not include the Xoom transfer service.

3. AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card (Annual Fee Required)

Between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card offers 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $360 back on $6,000 in purchases) as well as 6% on streaming subscriptions & 3% on transit.

This card can be particularly useful for anyone with large families that spends quite a bit at the supermarket each month. It’s also good for the entire year (not specific to Q4), thus you can continue to save at the grocery store for 12 months.

The only downside is the $95 annual fee (waived for 1st year), but that’s easily mitigated with the $300 back on $3000 of purchases for new customers (first 6 months). If you don’t want the annual fee, you can step down to the Blue Cash Everyday card (which offers 3% back at grocery stores, same cap on total purchases).

4. US Bank Cash Plus

The US Bank Cash Plus card is unique due to the fact that you can select the cashback categories that you want each quarter. After you sign up, you can select two different 5% cashback categories as well as one 2% cashback category.

For instance, if you know you want to buy a new couch soon, you can select the furniture store category to get 5% back on your purchase. Other 5% categories this quarter include electronics stores, utilities, gyms, department stores and fast food. The 2% categories include grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.

Bonus: The Best Retailer Cards

As mentioned earlier, the best store cards are offered by Amazon and Target. Both retailers offer cards that offer 5% cashback without any cap on total purchases for the year. Popular cards include:

• Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card: 5% back on Whole Foods purchases, 2% back at restaurants / gas / drugstores, 1% back on everything else.
• Target RedCard: Free shipping on all Target.com purchases and additional 30 days for returning items. (Usually $40 off $40 coupon for signup)
• Lowe’s Advantage Card: Offers 5% cashback on all purchases. 6 months special financing on $299 or more purchases
• Costco Anywhere Visa Card: Offers 2% back on all Costco purchases, 4% back on gas, 3% back at restaurants

Here’s the Top Four Credit Card Rewards for Q3 2021

While plenty of retailers have their own credit cards to earn a percentage back on a purchase or 0% interest for 6 to 12 months (along with astronomical interest rates if you don’t pay it off each month), many third party cards offer expanded options for rewards at your everyday retailers and other companies.

Here’s a collection of the top 5 cards you should be looking at as we move into the second quarter of 2021.

1. Chase Freedom

Between April 1, 2021 and June 30, 2021, the Chase Freedom card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at gas stations and home improvement stores.

Beyond typical, standalone gas stations, this category also includes gas stations at warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club. It does not include truck stops, boat marinas or places that distribute propane / oil.

Home improvement stores include the big chains like Home Depot and Lowe’s as well as smaller stores like Ace Hardware and True Value. It also includes paint stores, lumbar yards, and some furniture stores. It does not include home improvement supplies found in stores like Walmart.

2. Discover it Cashback

Between April 1, 2021 and June 30, 2021, the Discover it Cashback card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at gas stations, wholesale clubs and select streaming services.

Unlike the Chase Freedom card, gas stations at supermarkets and supercenters may not qualify for the cashback. Regarding wholesale clubs, Discover will have to be accepted as a form of payment to qualify.

There are 23 streaming services that qualify for the 5% cashback discount. Those include: Apple Music, Apple TV+, AT&T TV Now, BET+, CBS All Access, DAZN, Disney +, ESPN+, Fubo TV, Google Play Movies & TV, HBO Max, Hulu, Netflix, Pandora, Philo, Peacock TV, Showtime, Sirius XM, Starz, Sling, Spotify, Vudu, YouTube TV.

3. Citi Dividend Card

Between April 1, 2021 and June 30, 2021, the Citi Dividend Card offers 5% back (up to $300 back on $6,000 in purchases) at supermarkets and drugstores. 

The supermarkets category is restricted to standalone supermarkets like Publix or Kroger. Supermarkets within stores like Target and Walmart do not count. The same goes for warehouse clubs, bakeries, or meal delivery services. Drugstores basically covers all the major chains like Walgreens and CVS.

Be aware that the $300 on $6,000 in purchases is specific to the calendar year. If you already earned $200 in rewards using the card during the first 9 months of the year, you would only be able to earn $100 back in the last 3 months.

Sadly, Citi has closed out the card for new signups, but existing users can still take advantage.

4. AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card (Annual Fee Required)

Between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card offers 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $360 back on $6,000 in purchases) as well as 6% on streaming subscriptions & 3% on transit.

This card can be particularly useful for anyone with large families that spends quite a bit at the supermarket each month. It’s also good for the entire year (not specific to Q4), thus you can continue to save at the grocery store for 12 months.

The only downside is the $95 annual fee (waived for 1st year), but that’s easily mitigated with the $300 back on $3000 of purchases for new customers (first 6 months). If you don’t want the annual fee, you can step down to the Blue Cash Everyday card (which offers 3% back at grocery stores, same cap on total purchases).

5. US Bank Cash Plus

The US Bank Cash Plus card is unique due to the fact that you can select the cashback categories that you want each quarter. After you sign up, you can select two different 5% cashback categories as well as one 2% cashback category.

For instance, if you know you want to buy a new couch soon, you can select the furniture store category to get 5% back on your purchase. Other 5% categories this quarter include electronics stores, utilities, gyms, department stores and fast food. The 2% categories include grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.

Bonus: The Best Retailer Cards

As mentioned earlier, the best store cards are offered by Amazon and Target. Both retailers offer cards that offer 5% cashback without any cap on total purchases for the year. Popular cards include:

• Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card: 5% back on Whole Foods purchases, 2% back at restaurants / gas / drugstores, 1% back on everything else.
• Target RedCard: Free shipping on all Target.com purchases and additional 30 days for returning items. (Usually $40 off $40 coupon for signup)
• Lowe’s Advantage Card: Offers 5% cashback on all purchases. 6 months special financing on $299 or more purchases
• Costco Anywhere Visa Card: Offers 2% back on all Costco purchases, 4% back on gas, 3% back at restaurants

Here’s the Top 5 Credit Card Rewards for Q2 2021

While plenty of retailers have their own credit cards to earn a percentage back on a purchase or 0% interest for 6 to 12 months (along with astronomical interest rates if you don’t pay it off each month), many third party cards offer expanded options for rewards at your everyday retailers and other companies.

Here’s a collection of the top 5 cards you should be looking at as we move into the new year.

1. Chase Freedom

Between January 1, 2021 and March 31, 2021, the Chase Freedom card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at wholesale clubs, companies that offer internet, cable and phone services as well as 12 streaming services.

The companies included in the wholesale clubs are Sam’s Club, CostCo, BJ’s and Texas Jasmine. Be aware that mobile services are also included in the second category. Pay your Verizon bill with the card and you will get 5% back this quarter. In addition, all the major cable & internet companies are covered in the offer.

Streaming services included this quarter are Apple Music, Disney+, ESPN+, Fubo TV, Hulu, Netflix, Pandora, SiriusXM, Sling, Spotify, Vudu, and YouTubeTV.

2. Discover it Cashback

Between January 1, 2021 and March 31, 2021, the Discover it Cashback card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at grocery stores, Walgreens and CVS. While this isn’t as impressive as the 6% back on grocery purchases from the AMEX Blue Cash Preferred (mentioned below), it doesn’t have an annual fee (which the AMEX card requires).

Be aware that the grocery store category does not include superstores like Walmart or Target. It also doesn’t work at convenience stores, gas stations, warehouse clubs, or discount stores. So you don’t earn 5% cash back at places like Sam’s Club or a 99 Cents store.

3. Citi Dividend Card

Between January 1, 2021 and March 31, 2021, the Citi Dividend Card offers 5% back (up to $300 back on $6,000 in purchases) at Amazon as well as select streaming services. 

Streaming services include Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Music, Apple Music, CBS All Access, Disney+, AT&T TV NOW, ESPN+, fuboTV, HBO Max, NBA League Pass, Netflix, Pandora, Showtime, Sling TV, Spotify, Starz, SiriusXM, Vudu, YouTube Red, YouTube TV, and Tidal.

Be aware that the $300 on $6,000 in purchases is specific to the calendar year. If you already earned $200 in rewards using the card during the first 9 months of the year, you would only be able to earn $100 back in the last 3 months.

Sadly, Citi has closed out the card for new signups, but existing users can still take advantage. Alternatively, the Citi Quicksilver card is offering 5% back at clothing stores, computer & electronic stores, department stores and toy stores this quarter. However, the offer is limited to a $25 credit ($500 in total purchases).

4. AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card (Annual Fee Required)

Between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card offers 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $360 back on $6,000 in purchases) as well as 6% on streaming subscriptions & 3% on transit.

This card can be particularly useful for anyone with large families that spends quite a bit at the supermarket each month. It’s also good for the entire year (not specific to Q4), thus you can continue to save at the grocery store for 12 months.

The only downside is the $95 annual fee, but that’s easily mitigated with the $250 back on $1000 of purchases for new customers. If you don’t want the annual fee, you can step down to the Blue Cash Everyday card (which offers 3% back at grocery stores, same cap on total purchases).

5. US Bank Cash Plus

The US Bank Cash Plus card is unique due to the fact that you can select the cashback categories that you want each quarter. After you sign up, you can select two different 5% cashback categories as well as one 2% cashback category.

For instance, if you know you want to buy a new couch soon, you can select the furniture store category to get 5% back on your purchase. Other 5% categories this quarter include electronics stores, utilities, gyms, department stores and fast food. The 2% categories include grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.

Bonus: The Best Retailer Cards

As mentioned earlier, the best store cards are offered by Amazon and Target. Both retailers offer cards that offer 5% cashback without any cap on total purchases for the year. Popular cards include:

• Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card: 5% back on Whole Foods purchases, 2% back at restaurants / gas / drugstores, 1% back on everything else.
• Target RedCard: Free shipping on all Target.com purchases and additional 30 days for returning items.
• Lowe’s Advantage Card: Offers 5% cashback on all purchases. 6 months special financing on $299 or more purchases
• Costco Anywhere Visa Card: Offers 2% back on all Costco purchases, 4% back on gas, 3% back at restaurants

Here’s the Top 5 Credit Card Rewards for Q1 2021

While plenty of retailers have their own credit cards to earn a percentage back on a purchase or 0% interest for 6 to 12 months (along with astronomical interest rates if you don’t pay it off each month), many third party cards offer expanded options for rewards at your everyday retailers and other companies.

Here’s a collection of the top 5 cards you should be looking at as we move into Fall & Winter 2020.

1. Chase Freedom

Between October 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020, the Chase Freedom card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at Walmart and PayPal. This can be particularly good for Black Friday deals at Walmart as well as deals on eBay that require PayPal.

Regarding Walmart, this covers all purchases at regular Walmart stores, Walmart SuperCenters, Walmart Neighborhood Markets, online Walmart.com purchases, and Walmart branded gas stations operated by Walmart. However, it does not include merchants that operate withing a Walmart store (like a McDonalds), nor does it work in Walmart-owned businesses like Sam’s Club.

Regarding PayPal, you simply have to checkout with your Chase card rather than from a bank account when using PayPal. Payments made through the Xoom transfer service do not count, nor to Friends and Family or Person-to-Person (P2P) transactions.

2. Discover it Cashback

Between October 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020, the Discover it Cashback card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at Amazon.com, Walmart.com and Target.com. Discover is mainly focusing on online shoppers spending money at big online retailers this year.

Regarding Amazon, this will work on purchases like Amazon gift cards or Amazon Prime subscriptions. In addition, it will work on Amazon Go, Amazon Bookstore, and Amazon 4-Star in-store purchases as well.

Regarding Walmart and Target, this is only good for purchases made on the sites. However, you can make purchases online (through the site or apps), then pick up the item in a nearby store. This could be an ideal option for those that want to avoid crowds.

3. Citi Dividend Card

Between October 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020, the Citi Dividend Card offers 5% back (up to $300 back on $6,000 in purchases) at Best Buy as well as online purchases at warehouse clubs.

Be aware that the $300 on $6,000 in purchases is specific to the calendar year. If you already earned $200 in rewards using the card during the first 9 months of the year, you would only be able to earn $100 back in the last 3 months. Sadly, Citi has closed out the card for new signups, but existing users can still take advantage.

Regarding Best Buy, the 5% cashback offer works both on Bestbuy.com as well as in Best Buy stores. Citi doesn’t specify which warehouse clubs are covered, but Sam’s Club and Costco are likely both in the program.

4. AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card (Annual Fee Required)

Between October 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card offers 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $360 back on $6,000 in purchases) as well as 6% on streaming subscriptions & 3% on transit.

This card can be particularly useful for anyone with large families that spends quite a bit at the supermarket each month. It’s also good for the entire year (not specific to Q4), thus you can continue to save at the grocery store for 12 months.

The only downside is the $95 annual fee, but that’s easily mitigated with the $250 back on $1000 of purchases for new customers. If you don’t want the annual fee, you can move to the Blue Cash Everyday card (which offers 3% back at grocery stores, same cap on total purchases).

5. US Bank Cash Plus

The US Bank Cash Plus card is unique due to the fact that you can select the cashback categories that you want each quarter. After you sign up, you can select two different 5% cashback categories as well as one 2% cashback category.

For instance, if you know you want to buy a new couch soon, you can select the furniture store category to get 5% back on your purchase. Other 5% categories this quarter include electronics stores, utilities, gyms, department stores and fast food. The 2% categories include grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.

Bonus: The Best Retailer Cards

As mentioned earlier, the best store cards are offered by Amazon and Target. Both retailers offer cards that offer 5% cashback without any cap on total purchases for the year. Other benefits include:

• Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card: 5% back on Whole Foods purchases, 2% back at restaurants / gas / drugstores, 1% back on everything else. (There’s also a $100 sign-up bonus as of 10/01/20).
• Target RedCard: Free shipping on all Target.com purchases and additional 30 days for returning items. (There’s also a $40 off $40 signup bonus as of 10/01/20.)

Other popular Store Cards include:

• Lowe’s Advantage Card: Offers 5% cashback on all purchases. 6 months special financing on $299 or more purchases
• Costco Anywhere Visa Card: Offers 2% back on all Costco purchases, 4% back on gas, 3% back at restaurants

Here’s the Top 5 Credit Card Rewards for October – December 2020

While plenty of retailers have their own credit cards to earn a percentage back on a purchase or 0% interest for 6 to 12 months (along with astronomical interest rates if you don’t pay it off each month), many third party cards offer expanded options for rewards at your everyday retailers and other companies.

Here’s a collection of the top 5 cards you should be looking at as we move into Summer 2020.

1. Chase Freedom

Between July 1, 2020 and September 30, 2020, the Chase Freedom card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at Amazon and Whole Foods Market. While the Whole Foods offer isn’t as impressive as the 6% back on grocery purchases from the AMEX Blue Cash Preferred (mentioned below), it doesn’t have an annual fee (which the AMEX card requires).

This is active for all purchases on Amazon.com. You do not need an Amazon Prime membership to qualify for the 5% back. However, it does not include Amazon Pay purchases, purchases on international Amazon sites or purchases made from Whole Foods using services like InstaCart or Google Express. Also, if you already have a Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card, the 5% back at Whole Foods offer is year-round.

2. Discover it Cashback

Between July 1, 2020 and September 30, 2020, the Discover it Cashback card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at restaurants and purchases made using PayPal. The restaurants category includes “full-service restaurants, cafes, cafeterias and fast food locations.”

The PayPal category includes purchases using the PayPal wallet, sending money to Friends and Family via PayPal (using your Discover card), and point-of-sale transactions using PayPal. Payments using the Xoom transfer service do now qualify for the 5% offer.

3. Citi Dividend Card

Between July 1, 2020 and September 30, 2020, the Citi Dividend Card offers 5% back (up to $300 back on $6,000 in purchases) at home improvement stores and popular streaming services. Be aware that the $300 on $6,000 in purchases is specific to the calendar year. If you already earned $200 in rewards using the card during the first 9 months of the year, you would only be able to earn $100 back in the last 3 months. Sadly, Citi has closed out the card for new signups, but existing users can still take advantage.

The home improvement category includes home supply warehouse stores, lumber and building materials stores, paint and wallpaper stores, hardware stores, nurseries, and glass stores. Streaming services covered include Amazon Prime Video, CBS All Access, fuboTV, Netflix, Pandora ,Showtime, Sling TV, Spotify, Starz, Vudu, YouTube Premium, YouTube TV.

4. AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card (Annual Fee Required)

Between July 1, 2020 and September 30, 2020, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card offers 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $360 back on $6,000 in purchases) as well as 6% on streaming subscriptions & 3% on transit.

This card can be particularly useful for anyone with large families that spends quite a bit at the supermarket each month. It’s also good for the entire year (not specific to Q4), thus you can continue to save at the grocery store for 12 months.

The only downside is the $95 annual fee, but that’s easily mitigated with the $250 back on $1000 of purchases for new customers. If you don’t want the annual fee, you can move to the Blue Cash Everyday card (which offers 3% back at grocery stores, same cap on total purchases).

5. US Bank Cash Plus

The US Bank Cash Plus card is unique due to the fact that you can select the cashback categories that you want each quarter. After you sign up, you can select two different 5% cashback categories as well as one 2% cashback category.

For instance, if you know you want to buy a new couch soon, you can select the furniture store category to get 5% back on your purchase. Other 5% categories this quarter include electronics stores, utilities, gyms, department stores and fast food. The 2% categories include grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.

Bonus: The Best Retailer Cards

As mentioned earlier, the best store cards are offered by Amazon and Target. Both retailers offer cards that offer 5% cashback without any cap on total purchases for the year. Other benefits include:

• Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card: 5% back on Whole Foods purchases, 2% back at restaurants / gas / drugstores, 1% back on everything else.
• Target RedCard: Free shipping on all Target.com purchases and additional 30 days for returning items.

Other popular Store Cards include:

• Lowe’s Advantage Card: Offers 5% cashback on all purchases. 6 months special financing on $299 or more purchases
• Old Navy Visa Credit Card: Offers a $5 reward for every $100 you spend in an Old Navy / GAP / Banana Republic Store.
• Costco Anywhere Visa Card: Offers 2% back on all Costco purchases, 4% back on gas, 3% back at restaurants

Here’s the Top 5 Credit Card Rewards for July – Sept. 2020

While plenty of retailers have their own credit cards to earn a percentage back on a purchase or 0% interest for 6 to 12 months (along with astronomical interest rates if you don’t pay it off each month), many third party cards offer expanded options for rewards at your everyday retailers and other companies.

Here’s a collection of the top 5 cards you should be looking at as we move into Spring 2020.

1. Chase Freedom

Between April 1, 2020 and May 31, 2020, the Chase Freedom card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at grocery stores, fitness clubs and gym memberships, select streaming services. While this isn’t as impressive as the 6% back on grocery purchases from the AMEX Blue Cash Preferred (mentioned below), it doesn’t have an annual fee (which the AMEX card requires).

All the major grocery store chains are covered, over 80 stores in total. However, this does not include warehouse stores like Walmart & Target that happen to have a grocery section. It also doesn’t include drugstore chains that sell grocery items. As for fitness chains, there are over 40 included including major ones like 24-Hour Fitness, SoulCycle and LA Fitness.

Streaming services included this quarter are Apple Music, Disney+, ESPN+, Fubo TV, Hulu, Netflix, Pandora, SiriusXM, Sling, Spotify, Vudu, and YouTubeTV.

2. Discover it Cashback

Between April 1, 2020 and May 31, 2020, the Discover it Cashback card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at gas stations, ride-sharing services like Uber & Lyft as well as wholesale clubs.

Be aware that the gas station category does not include grocery stores or superstores that happen to have a gas station attached. There are no limitations on the ride-sharing charges. Regarding wholesale clubs, check with your local club to see if they accept Discover. Some clubs do no accept the Discover card.

3. Citi Dividend Card

Between April 1, 2020 and May 31, 2020, the Citi Dividend Card offers 5% back (up to $300 back on $6,000 in purchases) at drugstores and Amazon. Be aware that the $300 on $6,000 in purchases is specific to the calendar year. If you already earned $200 in rewards using the card during the first 9 months of the year, you would only be able to earn $100 back in the last 3 months. Sadly, Citi has closed out the card for new signups, but existing users can still take advantage.

4. AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card (Annual Fee Required)

Between April 1, 2020 and May 31, 2020, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card offers 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $360 back on $6,000 in purchases) as well as 6% on streaming subscriptions & 3% on transit.

This card can be particularly useful for anyone with large families that spends quite a bit at the supermarket each month. It’s also good for the entire year (not specific to Q4), thus you can continue to save at the grocery store for 12 months.

The only downside is the $95 annual fee, but that’s easily mitigated with the $250 back on $1000 of purchases for new customers. If you don’t want the annual fee, you can step down to the Blue Cash Everyday card (which offers 3% back at grocery stores, same cap on total purchases).

5. US Bank Cash Plus

The US Bank Cash Plus card is unique due to the fact that you can select the cashback categories that you want each quarter. After you sign up, you can select two different 5% cashback categories as well as one 2% cashback category. The new 5% category for Q2 2020 is TV, Internet % Streaming Services.

For instance, if you know you want to buy a new couch soon, you can select the furniture store category to get 5% back on your purchase. Other 5% categories this quarter include electronics stores, utilities, gyms, department stores and fast food. The 2% categories include grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.

Bonus: The Best Retailer Cards

As mentioned earlier, the best store cards are offered by Amazon and Target. Both retailers offer cards that offer 5% cashback without any cap on total purchases for the year. Other benefits include:

• Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card: 5% back on Whole Foods purchases, 2% back at restaurants / gas / drugstores, 1% back on everything else.
• Target RedCard: Free shipping on all Target.com purchases and additional 30 days for returning items.

Other popular Store Cards include:

• Lowe’s Advantage Card: Offers 5% cashback on all purchases. 6 months special financing on $299 or more purchases
• Old Navy Visa Credit Card: Offers a $5 reward for every $100 you spend in an Old Navy / GAP / Banana Republic Store.
• Costco Anywhere Visa Card: Offers 2% back on all Costco purchases, 4% back on gas, 3% back at restaurants

Here’s the Top 5 Credit Card Rewards for April – June 2020

While plenty of retailers have their own credit cards to earn a percentage back on a purchase or 0% interest for 6 to 12 months (along with astronomical interest rates if you don’t pay it off each month), many third party cards offer expanded options for rewards at your everyday retailers and other companies.

Here’s a collection of the top 5 cards you should be looking at as we move into the new year.

1. Chase Freedom

Between January 1, 2020 and March 31, 2020, the Chase Freedom card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at gas stations, companies that offer internet, cable and phone services as well as 12 streaming services.

Pretty much every gas station you can think of is covered, but it does not include grocery stores or warehouse clubs that have a gas station included. Be aware that mobile services are also included in the second category. Pay your Verizon bill with the card and you will get 5% back this quarter. In addition, all the major cable & internet companies are covered in the offer.

Streaming services included this quarter are Apple Music, Disney+, ESPN+, Fubo TV, Hulu, Netflix, Pandora, SiriusXM, Sling, Spotify, Vudu, and YouTubeTV.

2. Discover it Cashback

Between January 1, 2020 and March 31, 2020, the Discover it Cashback card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at grocery stores, Walgreens and CVS. While this isn’t as impressive as the 6% back on grocery purchases from the AMEX Blue Cash Preferred (mentioned below), it doesn’t have an annual fee (which the AMEX card requires).

Be aware that the grocery store category does not include superstores like Walmart or Target. It also doesn’t work at convenience stores, gas stations, warehouse clubs, or discount stores. So you don’t earn 5% cash back at places like Sam’s Club or a 99 Cents store.

3. Citi Dividend Card

Between January 1, 2020 and March 31, 2020, the Citi Dividend Card offers 5% back (up to $300 back on $6,000 in purchases) at fitness clubs and supermarkets. Be aware that the $300 on $6,000 in purchases is specific to the calendar year. If you already earned $200 in rewards using the card during the first 9 months of the year, you would only be able to earn $100 back in the last 3 months.

Sadly, Citi has closed out the card for new signups, but existing users can still take advantage. Alternatively, the Citi Quicksilver card is offering 5% back at clothing stores, computer & electronic stores, department stores and toy stores this quarter. However, the offer is limited to a $25 credit ($500 in total purchases).

4. AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card (Annual Fee Required)

Between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card offers 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $360 back on $6,000 in purchases) as well as 6% on streaming subscriptions & 3% on transit.

This card can be particularly useful for anyone with large families that spends quite a bit at the supermarket each month. It’s also good for the entire year (not specific to Q4), thus you can continue to save at the grocery store for 12 months.

The only downside is the $95 annual fee, but that’s easily mitigated with the $250 back on $1000 of purchases for new customers. If you don’t want the annual fee, you can step down to the Blue Cash Everyday card (which offers 3% back at grocery stores, same cap on total purchases).

5. US Bank Cash Plus

The US Bank Cash Plus card is unique due to the fact that you can select the cashback categories that you want each quarter. After you sign up, you can select two different 5% cashback categories as well as one 2% cashback category.

For instance, if you know you want to buy a new couch soon, you can select the furniture store category to get 5% back on your purchase. Other 5% categories this quarter include electronics stores, utilities, gyms, department stores and fast food. The 2% categories include grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.

Bonus: The Best Retailer Cards

As mentioned earlier, the best store cards are offered by Amazon and Target. Both retailers offer cards that offer 5% cashback without any cap on total purchases for the year. Other benefits include:

• Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card: 5% back on Whole Foods purchases, 2% back at restaurants / gas / drugstores, 1% back on everything else.
• Target RedCard: Free shipping on all Target.com purchases and additional 30 days for returning items.

Other popular Store Cards include:

• Lowe’s Advantage Card: Offers 5% cashback on all purchases. 6 months special financing on $299 or more purchases
• Old Navy Visa Credit Card: Offers a $5 reward for every $100 you spend in an Old Navy / GAP / Banana Republic Store.
• Costco Anywhere Visa Card: Offers 2% back on all Costco purchases, 4% back on gas, 3% back at restaurants

Here’s the Top 5 Credit Card Rewards for Q1 2020

While plenty of retailers have their own credit cards to earn a percentage back on a purchase or 0% interest for 6 to 12 months (along with astronomical interest rates if you don’t pay it off each month), many third party cards offer expanded options for rewards at your favorite retailers during the holiday shopping season.

Here’s a collection of the top 5 cards you should be looking at before the onslaught of November sales

1. Chase Freedom

During the 2019 holiday shopping season, the Chase Freedom card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) on department stores, PayPal, and Chase Pay (using your smartphone).

There are 25 retailers on the department stores list; the largest being JC Penney, Kohl’s, Macy’s and Sears. Kohl’s strikes us as particularly good, if you don’t have a Kohl’s card. Specifically because you will be able to get Black Friday prices on popular items, but also 5% cashback and the promotional Kohl’s cash off (which is usually $15 on every $50 you spend).

PayPal also jumps out at us, specifically because of the landslide of eBay deals that pop up in November. Ideally, you should combine that with one of eBay’s promotional periods where they offer a 10% – 15% off coupon.

2. Discover it Cashback

During the 2019 holiday shopping season, the Discover it Cashback card offers 5% back (up to $75 back on $1,500 in purchases) at Amazon.com, Walmart.com and Target.

While Amazon & Target aren’t particularly exciting (both retailers offer 5% cash back cards with no limits), Walmart.com jumps out at us. It’s been particularly difficult to get 5% cashback at Walmart in previous years. Although, Walmart did just partner with Capital One last month to launch a 5% back Walmart Rewards Program.

The 5% discount at Walmart applies to purchases made online (shipped to your home) in addition to purchases made online (ship to store for pickup).

3. Citi Dividend Card

During the 2019 holiday shopping season, the Citi Dividend Card offers 5% back (up to $300 back on $6,000 in purchases) at Best Buy and (currently unnamed) department stores.

While you can definitely get 5% back with a Best Buy card, it’s in rewards that you have to spend at Best Buy, not cashback. Citi’s card could be a better option for someone that’s in the market for a large 4K HDTV on Black Friday, but also wants cashback instead of rewards.

Be aware that the $300 on $6,000 in purchases is specific to the calendar year. If you already earned $200 in rewards using the card during the first 9 months of the year, you would only be able to earn $100 back in the last 3 months.

4. AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card

During the 2019 holiday shopping season, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card offers 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $360 back on $6,000 in purchases) as well as 6% on streaming subscriptions & 3% on transit.

This card can be particularly useful for anyone that’s hosting huge family gatherings during Thanksgiving / Christmas and needs to drop some serious coin at the supermarket. It’s also good for the entire year (not specific to Q4), thus you can continue to save at the grocery store for 12 months.

The only downside is the $95 annual fee, but that’s easily mitigated with the $250 back on $1000 of purchases for new customers. If you don’t want the annual fee, you can step down to the Blue Cash Everyday card (which offers 3% back at grocery stores, same cap on total purchases).

5. The Best Store Cards

As mentioned earlier, the best store cards are offered by Amazon and Target. Both retailers offer cards that offer 5% cashback without any cap on total purchases for the year. Other benefits include:

• Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card: 5% back on Whole Foods purchases, 2% back at restaurants / gas / drugstores, 1% back on everything else.
• Target RedCard: Free shipping on all Target.com purchases and additional 30 days for returning items.

Other popular Store Cards include:

• Lowe’s Advantage Card: Offers 5% cashback on all purchases. 6 months special financing on $299 or more purchases
• Old Navy Visa Credit Card: Offers a $5 reward for every $100 you spend in an Old Navy / GAP / Banana Republic Store.
• Costco Anywhere Visa Card: Offers 2% back on all Costco purchases, 4% back on gas, 3% back at resturants

Here’s the Top 5 Credit Card Rewards for the 2019 holiday shopping season

During a 5-week period between August 14 to September 18 2018, credit card information used on Newegg was exposed to hackers via malicious code. Mentioned in a Twitter post this morning, shoppers should check their email to see if their account information is at risk.

Hackers were able to collect credit card information by injecting 15 lines of malicious code into the payments page on both desktop and mobile versions of the site. The code sent to a different server while utilizing a HTTPS certificate setup by the hackers.

This data breach doesn’t appear to impact anyone that made a purchase prior to August 14. After Newegg emails all impacted users, the site plans to post a FAQ by Friday to help impacted users. However, anyone that’s made a purchase on Newegg in the last five weeks should monitor credit cards and other payment methods for potential fraud.

You can read the entire email being sent out to users below:

It’s likely that the FAQ posted at the end of the week will detail how widespread the data loss was and detail exactly what information (beyond credit card numbers) was lost.

Fraud Alert: Monitor your credit card if you’ve shopped at Newegg recently