Looking for the best 5% cash back credit cards in the USA for 2025? These cards are perfect for maximizing rewards on categories like groceries, gas, and dining. With up to 5% cash back on select purchases, you can earn more on everyday spending, making your credit card work harder for you.
Whether you’re seeking cards with rotating categories or fixed rewards, there are plenty of options available this year to help you make the most of your purchases.
In this article, we'll break down the top cash back credit cards for 2025, highlighting their rewards structures, bonuses, and no annual fee options. Plus, we'll share tips on how to maximize cash back and choose the card that aligns with your lifestyle.
Ready to start earning more with your purchases? Keep reading to discover the best 5% cash back cards for 2025!
What Is a Cash Back Credit Card?
A cash back credit card is a type of rewards credit card that allows cardholders to earn a percentage of their spending back as cash rewards. These cards are especially popular in the USA for their simplicity, transparency, and flexibility in how rewards are earned and redeemed.
Most cash back cards offer between 1% and 5% back on eligible purchases, with some cards featuring bonus categories like groceries, gas, or dining. Others offer a flat-rate cash back on all purchases, making them easy to use without tracking categories.
For example, if you use a 5% cash back credit card to spend $1,000 on groceries, you'll earn $50 back. Rewards can typically be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposits, or gift cards.
Top 7 Cash Back Credit Cards to Get Maximum Rewards in the USA
Looking for the top cash back credit cards in the USA for 2025? Whether you're spending on groceries, dining, gas, or travel, these 7 cards offer some of the highest cash back rates available up to 5% cash back on select categories. We've analyzed reward rates, fees, and redemption options to help you choose the best card for your needs.
1. Chase Freedom Flex® : Best Overall for 5% Rotating Categories
The Chase Freedom Flex® stands out as one of the best 5% cash back credit cards in the USA for 2025. It delivers excellent value through a combination of rotating bonus categories, fixed rewards on everyday purchases, and no annual fee making it a top choice for both beginners and savvy cardholders.
With this card, you can earn 5% cash back on rotating categories like groceries, gas, and online shopping, up to $1,500 per quarter (activation required). These bonus categories change every three months, helping you optimize rewards across different spending areas throughout the year.
Additional ongoing rewards include:
- 5% on travel booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- 3% on dining and drugstore purchases
- 1% on all other eligible spending
The card offers a generous $200 welcome bonus after spending just $500 in the first 3 months, plus a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months.
What makes Freedom Flex® especially valuable is its flexibility. While marketed as a cash back card, it actually earns Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which can be redeemed for cash, travel, gift cards, or even combined with premium Chase cards for increased value on travel redemptions.
Quick Overview of Chase Freedom Flex®
| Feature |
Details |
| Cash Back Rate |
5% on rotating categories (up to $1,500 per quarter) |
| Additional Rewards |
5% on Chase Travel, 3% on dining and drugstores, 1% on other purchases |
| Welcome Bonus |
$200 after spending $500 in the first 3 months |
| Annual Fee |
$0 |
| Intro APR |
0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers |
| Ongoing APR |
Variable based on credit profile |
| Redemption Options |
Statement credit, travel, gift cards, cash, Pay with Points |
| Card Network |
Mastercard |
| Foreign Transaction Fee |
3% |
| Credit Score Needed |
Good to Excellent (690 or higher) |
Why Chase Freedom Flex® Is Best for You
- Earn 5% cash back in rotating bonus categories
- Extra rewards on dining, drugstores, and travel
- No annual fee with strong built-in benefits
- Generous welcome bonus with low spending threshold
- Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards® program
- Works well alone or with premium Chase cards
Whether you're building your first rewards strategy or want to add a high-earning card to your wallet, Chase Freedom Flex® offers the ideal mix of value, flexibility, and long-term potential.
This card is perfect for those who want to maximize everyday spending, take advantage of quarterly cash back categories, and enjoy perks without paying an annual fee.
Apply now to start earning up to 5% cash back and claim your $200 welcome bonus after spending $500 in your first 3 months.
2. Discover it® Cash Back: Best for First-Year Cashback Match
The Discover it® Cash Back card is one of the most reliable cash back credit cards available in the USA for 2025, especially for those who want to make the most out of their first year of spending.
This card is well-regarded for its Cashback Match feature, which automatically doubles the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year. With this feature, you can potentially double your rewards with no cap on how much cash back you can earn.
With 5% cash back on rotating categories (like gas stations, restaurants, grocery stores, and Amazon.com) up to $1,500 each quarter, and 1% cash back on all other purchases, this card provides a straightforward way to maximize rewards. The rotating categories change quarterly, and you need to activate them, but the 5% cash back is generous for everyday spending.
Moreover, Discover is transparent with its fee structure there's no annual fee, foreign transaction fees, or surprise charges. You also get free access to your FICO® Credit Score, which can help you monitor your credit health.
Quick Overview of Discover it® Cash Back
| Feature |
Details |
| Cash Back Rate |
5% on rotating categories (up to $1,500 per quarter) |
| Additional Rewards |
1% on all other purchases |
| Welcome Bonus |
Cashback Match: Double all cash back earned in the first year |
| Annual Fee |
$0 |
| Intro APR |
0% for 14 months on purchases and balance transfers |
| Ongoing APR |
Variable based on credit profile |
| Redemption Options |
Statement credit, direct deposit, gift cards, Amazon.com purchases |
| Card Network |
Discover |
| Foreign Transaction Fee |
$0 |
| Credit Score Needed |
Good to Excellent (690 or higher) |
Why Discover it® Cash Back Is Best for You
You can trust this card if you:
- Want to earn 5% cash back in rotating categories like gas, groceries, and online shopping
- Prefer a card with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
- Plan to spend consistently in eligible categories to take advantage of the Cashback Match
- Are looking for an easy way to double your rewards in your first year
- Want a straightforward, low-maintenance card with free credit score monitoring
- Are building credit and want a card from an issuer known for strong U.S.-based customer service
The Discover it® Cash Back card is perfect for those who want a high-value starter card with long-term potential. With its unmatched first-year reward boost, solid 5% cash back structure, and $0 annual fee, this card is a top pick for maximizing cash rewards in 2025, especially in your first year of ownership.
Apply now to begin earning double cash back with Discover’s Cashback Match program and enjoy transparent rewards for all your purchases.
3. Citi Custom Cash® Card: Best for 5% on Your Highest Spending Category
The Citi Custom Cash® Card is one of the top cash back credit cards for 2025. It offers 5% cash back on your highest eligible spending category each month (up to $500, then 1%). Categories include groceries, dining, gas stations, and select streaming services, making it perfect for those with varying monthly spending.
In addition to 5% cash back on your top category, earn 1% on all other purchases. The card comes with a $200 welcome bonus after spending $750 in the first 3 months, and 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
With no annual fee, the Citi Custom Cash® Card is a flexible, simple choice for maximizing rewards without the complexity of rotating categories.
Quick Overview of Citi Custom Cash® Card
| Feature |
Details |
| Cash Back Rate |
5% on your highest eligible spending category (up to $500/month), 1% on all other purchases |
| Welcome Bonus |
$200 after spending $750 in the first 3 months |
| Annual Fee |
$0 |
| Intro APR |
0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers |
| Ongoing APR |
Variable based on credit profile |
| Redemption Options |
Statement credit, direct deposit, gift cards |
| Card Network |
Mastercard |
| Foreign Transaction Fee |
$0 |
| Credit Score Needed |
Good to Excellent (690 or higher) |
Why Citi Custom Cash® Card Is Best for You
The Citi Custom Cash® Card is perfect for you if you want:
- Automatic 5% cash back on your top spending category each month
- Flexibility to earn rewards on a wide range of categories based on your actual spending
- A $200 welcome bonus after spending $750 in the first 3 months
- 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, giving you time to pay off larger purchases
- A reliable, easy-to-manage card with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
The Citi Custom Cash® Card is ideal if you want a card that adapts to your monthly spending habits. Whether your top category is groceries, dining, or something else, you’ll get the best cash back for what you actually spend the most on each month. With no annual fee, a solid welcome bonus, and flexible rewards, it’s a great card for maximizing cash back in 2025.
Apply now to start earning 5% cash back on your top spending category and enjoy the benefits of a no annual fee credit card!
4. U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card is one of the top cash back credit cards for 2025. This card offering a unique advantage: you can earn 5% cash back on the first $2,000 spent in two categories of your choice each quarter. Categories include gas stations, grocery stores, home improvement stores, and more. This flexibility lets you tailor your rewards to match your spending habits.
In addition to the 5% cash back on your selected categories, you'll earn 2% on one everyday category (such as dining or groceries), and 1% on all other purchases. The card also offers a $200 welcome bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months, plus 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers.
The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card has no annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for maximizing your cash back without any hidden fees.
Quick Overview of U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
| Feature |
Details |
| Cash Back Rate |
5% on two categories of your choice (up to $2,000 per quarter), 2% on one everyday category, 1% on all other purchases |
| Welcome Bonus |
$200 after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months |
| Annual Fee |
$0 |
| Intro APR |
0% for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers |
| Ongoing APR |
Variable based on credit score |
| Redemption Options |
Statement credit, gift cards, travel, and more |
| Foreign Transaction Fee |
2% |
| Credit Score Recommended |
Good to Excellent (690 or higher) |
Why Choose the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card?
- High cash back flexibility: Select two categories for 5% cash back each quarter.
- Extra rewards: Earn 2% on another everyday category and 1% on everything else.
- A solid welcome bonus: Get $200 after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months.
- No annual fee: Keep all the rewards without any extra costs.
- 0% intro APR for 12 months: Helpful for managing large purchases and balances.
Maximize Your Cash Back with the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card is ideal for individuals who want to earn 5% cash back in two personalized categories each quarter, with the added benefit of 2% cash back on one everyday category. Its flexibility, no annual fee, and $200 welcome bonus make it a top choice for those who want to get more out of their spending. Whether you're a frequent shopper at gas stations or home improvement stores, this card can help you make the most of your everyday purchases.
Apply now to unlock up to 5% cash back in your favorite categories!
5. Blue Cash Preferred® from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred® from American Express is one of the top cash back credit cards for 2025, ideal for individuals who spend heavily at U.S. supermarkets. This card offers an impressive 6% cash back on the first $6,000 spent each year at U.S. supermarkets (then 1%).
It’s perfect for grocery shoppers looking to maximize rewards on everyday purchases. If you're seeking more ways to earn on groceries, check out our guide to the best supermarket cash back cards.
In addition to 6% cash back on groceries, you'll earn 3% on U.S. gas stations and select transit, including taxis, rideshares, and trains. For all other purchases, you earn 1% cash back. The card also includes a $350 welcome bonus after spending $3,000 in the first 6 months. Explore our post on the best welcome bonus credit cards to compare.
With a $95 annual fee, this card suits those who frequently shop at supermarkets and gas stations. If you’re looking for alternatives, check our top rewards credit cards.
Quick Overview of Blue Cash Preferred® from American Express
| Feature |
Details |
| Cash Back Rate |
6% at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000/year), 3% at U.S. gas stations and transit, 1% on other purchases |
| Welcome Bonus |
$350 after spending $3,000 in the first 6 months |
| Annual Fee |
$95 |
| Intro APR |
0% for 12 months on purchases |
| Ongoing APR |
Variable based on credit score |
| Redemption Options |
Statement credit, gift cards, travel, and more |
| Foreign Transaction Fee |
2.7% |
| Credit Score Recommended |
Good to Excellent (690 or higher) |
Why Choose the Blue Cash Preferred® from American Express?
- Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, ideal for families and grocery shoppers.
- 3% back at U.S. gas stations and on transit including rideshares and taxis.
- $350 welcome bonus after spending $3,000 in the first 6 months.
- 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases.
- No rotating categories, earn consistent rewards year round.
- One of the top grocery cash back credit cards available.
Maximize Grocery and Gas Rewards
The Blue Cash Preferred® from American Express is a strong pick for high grocery and gas spending. With 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets and 3% at U.S. gas stations, it's ideal for households that spend heavily on essentials. The $350 welcome bonus and no rotating categories add to its year-round value.
Apply now to start earning premium rewards on everyday purchases! For more options, explore our 2025 guide to cash back credit cards.
6. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card: Best for Unlimited 2% Cash Back
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is one of the most popular flat-rate cash back credit cards for 2025. It offers unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase with no rotating categories, caps, or activations. Perfect for users who want simple, consistent rewards without tracking spending categories.
Earn a $200 welcome bonus after spending just $500 in the first 3 months. Plus, benefit from a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and qualifying balance transfers (variable APR of 19.24%-29.24% thereafter).
This card includes valuable extras like cell phone protection up to $600 (with a $25 deductible) when you pay your bill with the card. It also offers Visa Signature® benefits, making it a well rounded option for everyday spending. For more options, visit our full cash back rewards card guide.
Quick Overview of Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
| Feature |
Details |
| Cash Back Rate |
Unlimited 2% on all purchases |
| Welcome Bonus |
$200 after spending $500 in the first 3 months |
| Annual Fee |
$0 |
| Intro APR |
0% for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers |
| Ongoing APR |
19.24%-29.24% variable |
| Redemption Options |
Statement credit, direct deposit, gift cards, PayPal |
| Foreign Transaction Fee |
3% |
| Credit Score Recommended |
Good to Excellent (690+) |
| Extra Benefits |
Cell phone protection, Visa Signature® concierge |
Why Choose the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card?
- Earn 2% cash back on every purchase with no limits
- $200 bonus after just $500 spend in 3 months
- 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and transfers
- No annual fee, maximize your rewards with zero cost
- Includes cell phone protection and Visa Signature® benefits
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is a top-tier choice in 2025 for those who want simple, flat-rate rewards. With unlimited 2% cash back, a generous welcome bonus, and no annual fee, it's perfect for everyday use. The additional cell phone protection and Visa benefits make it a complete package.
Apply now to start earning cash back on every purchase and unlock your $200 welcome bonus today.
7. Citi Double Cash® Card: Best for Simple 2% Cash Back Structure
The Citi Double Cash® Card continues to be a top choice for those seeking straightforward cash back rewards. Currently, new cardholders can earn a $200 cash-back bonus after spending $1,500 on purchases within the first 6 months of account opening.
This bonus is fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back or transferred to select Citi transfer partners.
Additionally, from now through December 31, 2025, cardholders can earn 5% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through the Citi Travel portal
Quick Overview of Citi Double Cash® Card
| Feature |
Details |
| Cash Back Rate |
2% total (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay) |
| Welcome Bonus |
$200 after spending $1,500 in the first 6 months |
| Annual Fee |
$0 |
| Intro APR |
0% for 18 months on balance transfers |
| Ongoing APR |
Variable 18.24%-28.24% based on creditworthiness |
| Rewards Type |
ThankYou® Points (redeemable as cash, gift cards, travel, more) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee |
3% |
| Credit Score Required |
Good to Excellent (690 or higher) |
Why Choose the Citi Double Cash® Card?
- Flat 2% cash back on all purchases with no limits or categories
- $200 welcome bonus after spending $1,500 in the first 6 months
- 0% intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers
- No annual fee, maximizing your rewards
- 5% cash back on select travel purchases through the Citi Travel portal (through December 31, 2025)
The Citi Double Cash® Card offers a compelling combination of simplicity and value. With 2% cash back on all purchases, a generous welcome bonus, and no annual fee, it's an excellent choice for everyday spending.
The added 5% cash back on select travel purchases through the Citi Travel portal enhances its appeal for frequent travelers.
Apply now to start earning 2% cash back on every purchase and unlock your $200 welcome bonus.
How to Choose the Best Cash Back Credit Cards in 2025
Looking to earn more from your daily purchases? Here's how to choose the best cash back credit cards in 2025:
- Choose the Right Reward Type
- Flat-rate cards: Earn 1.5%–2% on all purchases. Great for simplicity.
- Category-based cards: Earn up to 5% on rotating categories like groceries, gas, or dining. Choose a card that fits your spending habits.
- Look for a Welcome Bonus
Many top cash back cards offer a $150–$300 bonus after spending a certain amount in the first 3 months.
- Check Fees and APR
Choose cards with no annual fees unless the rewards are worth the cost. Also, look for cards with a 0% intro APR on purchases or balance transfers.
- Consider Flexible Redemption Options
Opt for cards that offer flexible cash back redemption, such as cash, statement credit, gift cards, or travel.
- Travel Frequently?
Select cards with no foreign transaction fees for global purchases.
This guide will help you make a smart choice for earning cash back rewards while matching your financial needs.
How to Maximize Flat Rate and Rotating Category Cash Back Cards in 2025
Looking to earn more rewards from your credit card in 2025? The smartest way to maximize cash back is by combining flat rate credit cards with rotating category cards. This strategy helps you get the most value from both everyday and seasonal spending.
- Use a Flat Rate Card for Everyday Spending
Cards like the Citi Double Cash® or Wells Fargo Active Cash® offer a consistent 2% cash back. Ideal for daily purchases when no bonus category applies.
- Maximize Rotating Bonus Categories
Cards like Chase Freedom Flex® or Discover it® Cash Back give 5% back in select categories like groceries, gas, and online shopping. Remember to activate each quarter.
- Track Your Bonus Categories and Spending
Use apps like MaxRewards or your card's mobile dashboard to track bonus limits and stay organized.
- Time Your Bigger Purchases Strategically
Align large purchases with your bonus categories to earn more without spending extra.
- Set Up Your Flat Rate Card for Recurring Bills
Use it for subscriptions, utilities, and fixed expenses to earn consistent rewards passively.
- Redeem Wisely
Choose flexible redemption options, statement credit, direct deposit, travel, or gift cards for best value.
- Pay on Time and in Full
Avoid interest charges by paying off your full balance monthly. Set up autopay to stay on track.
- Review Reward Calendars and Offers Regularly
Monitor your card issuer’s seasonal offers and reward portals to boost your cash back earnings.
You only need two cards to keep your rewards strategy simple and effective. A combination of a flat rate card and a rotating category card can help you earn more without added hassle.
ZetBanker Expert Review: Maximize Your Cash Back with Insights from Daniel Brooks
At ZetBanker, smart credit card use is more than just spending, it's about strategy. According to U.S. based credit analyst Daniel Brooks, maximizing cash back in 2025 comes down to using the right card for the right purchase.
"You don’t need five credit cards to earn big rewards," says Daniel Brooks. "Even with just two well-chosen cards, you can earn up to 5% cash back on everyday spending without overcomplicating things."
Daniel's Proven Tips:
- Pair one flat-rate cash back card (like Citi Double Cash®) with a rotating category card (such as Chase Freedom Flex®)
- Always activate 5% categories at the start of each quarter
- Use your flat-rate card for subscriptions, bills, and non-bonus purchases
- Redeem rewards for cash back, travel, or gift cards depending on your goals With Daniel Brooks’ expert guidance, ZetBanker readers can confidently earn more from the best cash back credit cards in USA with less effort and smarter strategy.