Best Credit Cards with No Annual Fee and Cash Back: Top Picks for 2025

Credit cards with no annual fees and cash back rewards are designed to help consumers save money while earning rewards on their everyday purchases. These cards eliminate the burden of yearly charges, making them an attractive option for those who want to maximize their spending power without additional costs. Many of these cards also come with introductory offers, such as bonus cash back after meeting a minimum spending requirement within the first few months. Additionally, some cards provide perks like purchase protection, extended warranties, and fraud liability coverage, enhancing their value beyond just cash back rewards.
When selecting a no-annual-fee credit card, it is essential to consider your spending patterns. For instance, if you spend heavily on groceries and gas, a card that offers higher cash back rates in these categories would be ideal. On the other hand, if your spending is spread across various categories, a flat-rate cash back card might be more beneficial. Credit score requirements also play a significant role, as some cards are tailored for individuals with excellent credit, while others are more accessible to those with fair or good credit scores.
Another critical factor to evaluate is the redemption options for cash back rewards. Some cards allow you to redeem rewards as a statement credit, direct deposit, or even gift cards, while others may have restrictions or expiration dates on rewards. Foreign transaction fees can also impact your decision if you frequently travel abroad or make purchases from international merchants. By carefully assessing these factors, you can choose a no-annual-fee credit card that aligns with your financial needs and lifestyle.
Top Credit Cards with No Annual Fee and Cash Back in 2025
The following section highlights some of the best no-annual-fee credit cards available in 2025, along with their key features and benefits. These cards have been selected based on their reward structures, customer reviews, and overall value proposition.
1. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card is a popular choice for its flat-rate cash back on all purchases. Cardholders earn 1.5% cash back on every dollar spent, with no limit on the amount of cash back that can be earned. Additionally, the card offers a sign-up bonus for new users who meet the minimum spending requirement within the first three months. Other benefits include a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months, making it a versatile option for both everyday spending and debt consolidation.
2. Citi® Double Cash Card
The Citi® Double Cash Card stands out for its unique cash back structure, offering 1% cash back when you make a purchase and an additional 1% when you pay it off. This effectively translates to 2% cash back on all purchases, making it one of the highest flat-rate rewards cards available. The card also has no annual fee and provides a straightforward redemption process, allowing cardholders to redeem cash back as a statement credit or direct deposit.
3. Discover it® Cash Back
The Discover it® Cash Back card is known for its rotating bonus categories that offer 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in purchases each quarter (activation required). All other purchases earn 1% cash back. Discover also matches all the cash back earned at the end of the first year for new cardholders, effectively doubling their rewards. The card has no annual fee and includes features like free FICO® credit score access and no foreign transaction fees.
4. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card allows cardholders to choose their preferred cash back category each month, offering 3% cash back in the selected category (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club purchases each quarter) and 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs. All other purchases earn 1% cash back. The card has no annual fee and provides a $200 online cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.
5. Capital One QuicksilverOne® Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One QuicksilverOne® Cash Rewards Credit Card offers a flat 1.5% cash back on all purchases with no annual fee. While this card is designed for individuals with average credit, it provides an opportunity to build credit while earning rewards. Cardholders also benefit from no foreign transaction fees and access to a higher credit line after making the first five monthly payments on time.
Comparison of Top No-Annual-Fee Credit Cards with Cash Back
Card Name | Cash Back Rate | Sign-Up Bonus | Introductory APR | Foreign Transaction Fee |
---|---|---|---|---|
Chase Freedom Unlimited® | 1.5% on all purchases | Yes | 0% for 15 months | 3% |
Citi® Double Cash Card | 2% on all purchases (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay) | No | N/A | 3% |
Discover it® Cash Back | 5% rotating categories, 1% on other purchases | Cash back match after first year | 0% for 14 months | 0% |
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card | 3% in chosen category, 2% at grocery stores/wholesale clubs, 1% on other purchases | $200 after $1,000 spend in 90 days | 0% for 15 months | 3% |
Capital One QuicksilverOne® Cash Rewards Credit Card | 1.5% on all purchases | No | N/A | 0% |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right no-annual-fee credit card with cash back rewards depends on your spending habits, credit score, and financial goals. Whether you prefer a flat-rate cash back card like the Citi® Double Cash Card or a card with rotating bonus categories like the Discover it® Cash Back, there are plenty of options to suit your needs. Always compare the features, benefits, and limitations of each card before applying to ensure you select the best one for your lifestyle.
For more information, visit the official websites of these credit card issuers: Chase , Citi , Discover , Bank of America , and Capital One .