Article updated on Oct 15, 2024
This credit card has a competitive rewards program and introductory APR.
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Edited by Liliana Hall Associate Writer Liliana Hall is a writer for CNET Money covering banking, credit cards and mortgages. Previously, she wrote about personal credit for Bankrate and CreditCards.com. She is passionate about providing accessible content to enhance financial literacy. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor's degree in journalism, and has worked in the newsrooms of KUT and the Austin Chronicle. When not working, she is probably paddle boarding, hopping on a flight or reading for her book club.
CNET staff -- not advertisers, partners or business interests -- determine how we review the products and services we cover. If you buy through our links, we may get paid.
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Joe Van Brussel Contributor Joe Van Brussel is a freelance writer for CNET Money, where he deciphers obfuscatory credit card offers and breaks them down so consumers actually know what belongs in their wallet. He also covers other aspects of personal finance, from life insurance and loans to tax software and the impact of broader economic trends on individuals. Joe believes the United States will win the World Cup in his lifetime, and wishes New York City apartments came standard with thick, noise-reducing windows.
Raina He is a contributor to CNET Money. She previously worked as an editor at CNET, focusing on credit cards, banking and loans. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a B.A. in Media and Journalism. Before coming to CNET Money, she was an editor at NextAdvisor, a personal finance news site that shared a parent company with CNET Money.
Edited by
Liliana Hall Associate Writer Liliana Hall is a writer for CNET Money covering banking, credit cards and mortgages. Previously, she wrote about personal credit for Bankrate and CreditCards.com. She is passionate about providing accessible content to enhance financial literacy. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor's degree in journalism, and has worked in the newsrooms of KUT and the Austin Chronicle. When not working, she is probably paddle boarding, hopping on a flight or reading for her book club.
Article updated on Oct 15, 2024
Our Experts
Written by ,
Edited by
CNET staff -- not advertisers, partners or business interests -- determine how we review the products and services we cover. If you buy through our links, we may get paid.
Reviews ethics statementWhy You Can Trust CNET Money
A cash-back credit card can be a valuable addition to your wallet — especially if you’re earning rewards from your top spending categories. But no matter how lucrative a credit card’s rewards are, it’s important to only charge what you can afford and pay your bill in full and on time each month. Otherwise, fees and interest charges can essentially wipe out any rewards you earn.
When choosing a cash-back card, start by comparing your spending habits to the rewards categories and rates a card offers. Choosing a card that rewards you for what you’re already buying makes it easy to earn rewards without overspending. For instance, if you spend more on groceries, gas and dining out, you may choose a cash-back credit card with these rewards categories to maximize your rewards. You’ll also want to consider a card’s welcome bonus, which can help you rack up rewards quickly.
If you choose a cash-back or rewards credit card with an annual fee, make sure the card’s perks and rewards can offset this charge. If you don’t earn enough rewards or take advantage of the additional cardholder perks (like monthly subscriptions and merchant discounts), keeping the card may not be worth it.
Joe Van Brussel is a freelance writer for CNET Money, where he deciphers obfuscatory credit card offers and breaks them down so consumers actually know what belongs in their wallet. He also covers other aspects of personal finance, from life insurance and loans to tax software and the impact of broader economic trends on individuals. Joe believes the United States will win the World Cup in his lifetime, and wishes New York City apartments came standard with thick, noise-reducing windows.
Raina He is a contributor to CNET Money. She previously worked as an editor at CNET, focusing on credit cards, banking and loans. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a B.A. in Media and Journalism. Before coming to CNET Money, she was an editor at NextAdvisor, a personal finance news site that shared a parent company with CNET Money.