We know for a fact that we spend good money on things like groceries, clothes, and internet subscriptions every single month. But what if you could actually earn money back on those same purchases? That’s where cash back credit cards come in and no, it’s not some complicated financial trick. It’s real, and it’s easier than you think.
So… What Exactly Is a Cash Back Card?
Cash back cards give you a percentage of your spending back as rewards usually in the form of statement credits, deposits, or even gift cards. For example, spend $100 on groceries, and you might earn $6 back. It adds up fast, especially if you’re consistent.
There are two main types:
- Flat-rate cards (same % back on everything)
- Category cards (extra % on things like groceries or streaming)
We’ll break down the best ones for each category most of us spend on groceries, clothes, and internet bills.
1. Best Cash Back Card for Groceries
Top Pick: Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000/year)
- 1% back after the cap
- Also gives 3% on transit and streaming
- Annual fee: $0 the first year, then $95
If you cook at home or shop regularly for a family, this card is a no-brainer. One of our readers shared that they made nearly $400 in cashback last year just from food shopping.
Runner-Up: Capital One SavorOne
- 3% back on groceries, dining, and entertainment
- No annual fee
Perfect if you want steady rewards with no extra cost.
2. Best Cash Back Card for Clothing and Fashion
Top Pick: U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa
- 6% cash back at two retailers of your choice
- Includes stores like Macy’s, Nike, or Old Navy
- Great for seasonal clothes shopping or back-to-school splurges
- Annual fee: $0 the first year, then $95
Every quarter, you can pick which stores get the 6% treatment—perfect for fashion lovers or folks with go-to brands.
Bonus Tip:
If you prefer simplicity, check out the Discover It® Cash Back—it gives 5% back on rotating categories like department stores, with cashback match in year one.
3. Best Card for Internet, Phone & Subscriptions
Top Pick: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
- 2% unlimited cash back on everything
- No categories to track
- Includes phone protection if you use it to pay your bill
This one is ideal for recurring charges—think your Netflix, internet, or Spotify subscriptions. It’s also great for small businesses or freelancers who have lots of digital bills.
Runner-Up: Blue Cash Everyday® from AmEx
- 3% back on U.S. online retail purchases
- Includes many subscription services
- No annual fee
4. Best All-Around Cashback Card
Citi Custom Cash® Card
- 5% back on your top spending category every month (up to $500)
- Automatically adjusts to match your habits
- No annual fee
Let’s say you spend more on groceries one month and clothes the next the card adjusts to give you 5% on whichever was highest. It’s like a smart rewards assistant.
Also Great: Chase Freedom Unlimited®
- 1.5% back on all purchases
- Bonus: extra % on groceries and dining for the first year
- Perfect for beginners who want “set-it-and-forget-it” cash back
Real-Life Tips to Make the Most of These Cards
- Mix & Match Smartly: Use AmEx for groceries, Wells Fargo for subscriptions, U.S. Bank for fashion.
- Watch Reward Caps: Some cards max out bonuses after a certain spend.
- Pay Off Monthly: Cashback isn’t worth it if you’re paying interest.
- Set Reminders: For rotating categories or to pick retailers on cards like U.S. Bank.
You’re Leaving Money on the Table If You’re Not Doing This
You already spend money on groceries, bills, clothes, and more why not earn a chunk of it back?
Even if you start with just one card, the savings will surprise you. The best part? No extreme couponing or lifestyle changes needed. Just smarter swiping.
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