If you’re looking to maximize your cashback rewards without paying annual fees, you’re in the right place. I’m Ethan, and after 6+ years optimizing my own credit card strategy, I’ve put together the ultimate list of top-performing cashback credit cards for 2025. These cards can help you earn hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars a year in cash back.
Let’s dive into the best no-annual-fee credit cards that deserve a spot in your wallet.
1. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
A top pick for everyday spending with a generous welcome bonus.
- 1.5% cashback on all purchases
- 3% cashback on dining & drugstores
- 5% cashback on travel booked through Chase
- Welcome Bonus: Earn $200 after spending $500 in the first 3 months
- Limited-Time Offer: 5% cashback on gas & groceries (up to $12,000 in the first year)
💡 Perfect “catch-all” card when other categories don’t apply.
2. U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
Highly customizable with strong bonus categories.
- 5% cashback on two categories of your choice (up to $2,000 per quarter)
- 2% cashback on groceries, gas, or restaurants
- 1% cashback on everything else
- Welcome Bonus: Get $200 after spending $1,000 in 120 days
💡 Choose categories like utilities, fast food, streaming, or cell phones for max rewards.
3. Capital One SavorOne® Cash Rewards Card
An excellent dining & entertainment card.
- 3% cashback on dining, grocery stores, entertainment, and popular streaming
- 10% cashback on Uber & Uber Eats + free Uber One until Nov 2024
- 5% cashback on Capital One Travel
- Welcome Bonus: $200 after spending $500 in 3 months
- No foreign transaction fees
💡 One of the best cards for foodies and travelers.
4. American Express Blue Cash Everyday®
Best for grocery, online shopping, and gas.
- 3% cashback on groceries, gas, and online retail (up to $6,000 each/year)
- 1% cashback on other spending
- Welcome Bonus: $200 after spending $2,000 in 6 months
- Extra perks: Disney+ credits, Home Chef discounts
💡 A strong all-around card with everyday utility.
5. Citi Custom Cash℠ Card
Earn 5% where you spend the most.
- 5% cashback on your top eligible category (up to $500/month)
- 1% cashback on all other purchases
- Welcome Bonus: $200 after $1,500 in 6 months
💡 No need to activate rotating categories—just spend normally.
6. Citi® Double Cash Card
Consistent 2% cashback on everything.
- 2% cashback (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay)
- Welcome Bonus: $200 after spending $1,500 in 6 months
- Intro APR: 0% for 18 months on balance transfers
💡 A go-to card for non-category spending and debt consolidation.
7. Amazon Prime Visa
Best card for Amazon and Whole Foods shoppers.
- 5% cashback on Amazon.com & Whole Foods
- 2% cashback on restaurants, gas, and local transit
- 1% cashback on everything else
- Welcome Bonus: Up to $100 just for approval
- No foreign transaction fees
💡 Ideal if you’re a frequent Amazon buyer.
8. Chase Freedom Flex℠
Maximize rewards with rotating categories.
- 5% cashback on rotating categories (up to $1,500/quarter)
- 3% cashback on dining & drugstores
- 1% cashback on all other purchases
- Welcome Bonus: $200 after $500 in 3 months
- Bonus: 5% cashback on gas & groceries in Year 1 (up to $12,000)
💡 Potential to earn over $1,000 in cashback your first year.
9. Discover it® Cash Back
Double your cashback in year one.
- 5% cashback on rotating quarterly categories (activation required)
- 1% cashback on all other purchases
- Year-End Bonus: All cashback is doubled at the end of your first year
💡 Great beginner card with unmatched first-year value.
10. Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
Broad category coverage with unlimited 3% cashback.
- 3% cashback on restaurants, travel, gas, streaming, and phone plans
- 1% cashback on other spending
- Welcome Bonus: 30,000 points = $300 after $1,500 in 3 months
- Unlimited rewards
💡 A powerhouse for consistent spenders across common categories.
Final Thoughts
If you’re just starting your cashback journey or building a rewards stack, these cards can help you earn thousands with the right setup. Want to level up your strategy? Watch my video on how to climb the credit card ladder and start maximizing welcome bonuses.