Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas will the the main point of discussion. When it comes to everyday expenses like groceries and gas, choosing the right credit card can turn your routine purchases into significant savings. The Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas are designed to reward you for these essential expenses, offering high cash back rates, points, or other perks tailored to your spending habits.

Whether stocking up at the supermarket or filling up your tank, these cards help you earn more on what you already buy. From no-annual-fee options like the Citi Custom Cash Card to premium cards like the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card, there’s a card for every type of spender.

Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas

When managing your finances, choosing the right credit card can significantly affect your savings. For many, groceries and gas are the most frequent and essential expenses. Fortunately, there are credit cards specifically designed to reward these purchases. These rewards typically come in the form of cashback, points, or miles, which can be redeemed for various benefits.This comprehensive article explores the 10 Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas, highlighting their features, benefits, and how they can help you save money on your everyday spending.

Whether you’re a frequent shopper at supermarkets or someone who spends a lot on fuel, these cards offer cash back, points, or other rewards tailored to your needs. Let’s dive into the details and find the perfect card for you.

1. American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card

The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card is one of the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas for a reason. It offers an impressive 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations.

Key Features:

• Annual Fee: $95
• Welcome Bonus: Earn a $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 6 months.
• Additional Rewards: 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions and 3% on transit.

Example:

If you spend $500 monthly on groceries and $200 on gas, you could earn $360 in cash back annually on groceries and $72 on gas, totaling $432 in rewards.

2. Chase Freedom Flex

The Chase Freedom Flex is another standout option among the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas. While it doesn’t offer fixed rewards for these categories, it features rotating quarterly bonus categories that often include groceries and gas.

Key Features:

• Annual Fee: $0
• Welcome Bonus: Earn $200 after spending $500 in the first 3 months.
• Rewards: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter (activation required).

Example:

During a quarter where groceries and gas are bonus categories, you could earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined spending. If you max out the bonus, that’s $75 in cash back.

3. Citi Custom Cash Card

Due to its customizable rewards structure, the Citi Custom Cash Card is a versatile option and one of the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas. It is your top eligible spending category each billing cycle, with up to $500 spent.

Key Features:

• Annual Fee: $0
• Welcome Bonus: Earn $200 cash back after spending $1,500 in the first 6 months.
• Rewards: 5% cash back on your top spending category (e.g., groceries or gas) each month.

Example:

If you spend $500 on groceries in a billing cycle, you’ll earn $25 in cash back. Over a year, this could add up to $300 in rewards.

4. Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card is a strong contender among the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas. It allows you to choose your preferred category for 3% cash back, including groceries and gas.

Key Features:

• Annual Fee: $0
• Welcome Bonus: Earn a $200 online cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.
• Rewards: 3% cash back in your chosen category (up to $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter).

Example:

If you select gas as your category and spend $200 per month, you could earn $72 in cash back annually.

5. Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi

For Costco members, the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi is one of the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas. It offers generous rewards on gas and Costco purchases.

Key Features:

• Annual Fee: $0 (Costco membership required)
• Rewards: 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging (up to $7,000 per year, then 1%), 2% at Costco and Costco.com.

Example:

If you spend $300 per month on gas, you could earn $144 in cash back annually.

6. Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express is a no-annual-fee option that still ranks among the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas. It offers 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%) and 2% at U.S. gas stations.

Key Features:

• Annual Fee: $0
• Welcome Bonus: Earn a $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 in the first 6 months.
• Additional Rewards: 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases.

Example:

If you spend $400 per month on groceries and $150 on gas, you could earn $144 on groceries and $36 on gas annually.

7. Sam’s Club Mastercard

The Sam’s Club Mastercard is another excellent choice for warehouse shoppers and one of the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas. It offers high rewards on gas and dining.

Key Features:

• Annual Fee: $0 (Sam’s Club membership required)
• Rewards: 5% cash back on gas (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%), 3% on dining and travel.

Example:

If you spend $250 per month on gas, you could earn $150 in cash back annually.

8. Wells Fargo Autograph Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph Card is a versatile option and one of the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas due to its broad rewards categories.

Key Features:

• Annual Fee: $0
• Welcome Bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points (worth $200) after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months.
• Rewards: 3x points on gas, dining, and travel.

Example:

If you spend $200 per month on gas, you could earn 7,200 points annually, worth $72 in rewards.

9. Discover it Cash Back

The Discover it Cash Back card is a popular choice among the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas due to its rotating bonus categories and cashback match feature.

Key Features:

• Annual Fee: $0
• Welcome Bonus: Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year.
• Rewards: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in quarterly bonus categories (activation required).

Example:

If groceries and gas are bonus categories, you could earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined spending, plus a cashback match in your first year.

10. U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card

The U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card is a premium option and one of the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas for frequent travelers.

Key Features:

• Annual Fee: $95
• Welcome Bonus: Earn 50,000 bonus points (worth $500) after spending $2,000 in the first 120 days.
• Rewards: 4x points on gas, EV charging, and travel.

Example:

If you spend $300 per month on gas, you could earn 14,400 points annually, worth $144 in rewards.

How to Choose the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas

When selecting the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas, consider the following factors:

1. Rewards Structure: Look for cards that offer high cash back or points on groceries and gas.
2. Annual Fees: Determine if the rewards outweigh the cost of the annual fee.
3. Spending Limits: Check for caps on bonus categories to ensure the card aligns with your spending habits.
4. Additional Benefits: Consider perks like welcome bonuses, travel insurance, or purchase protection.

Chart comparison of the 10 Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas

Below is a chart comparison of the 10 Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas, summarizing their key features, rewards, annual fees, and welcome bonuses. This chart will help you quickly compare and decide which card best suits your needs.

Key Takeaways from the Chart

1. Best for High Grocery Rewards:

• American Express Blue Cash Preferred® (6% cash back on groceries).
• Citi Custom Cash℠ Card (5% cash back on top category, including groceries).

1. Best for High Gas Rewards:

• Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi (4% cash back on gas).
• Sam’s Club® Mastercard® (5% cash back on gas).

1. Best for No Annual Fee:

• Chase Freedom Flex℠, Citi Custom Cash℠ Card, Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards, and Blue Cash Everyday® Card from Amex.

1. Best for Rotating Categories:

• Chase Freedom Flex℠ and Discover it® Cash Back (5% cash back in rotating categories, including groceries and gas).

1. Best for Premium Benefits:

• U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card (4x points on gas and travel, $500 welcome bonus).

This chart provides a clear, side-by-side comparison of the 10 Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas, making it easier for you to evaluate which card aligns with your spending habits and financial goals. Let me know if you’d like further details or assistance!

What card gives the most points on groceries?

When it comes to maximizing rewards on grocery purchases, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Card stands out as the clear winner. Here’s a detailed breakdown of why this card is the best for earning points (or cash back) on groceries and how it compares to other options:

American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Card: Best for Groceries

Rewards on Groceries:

• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 in purchases per year, then 1%).
  This is the highest cash back rate available for grocery purchases among major credit cards.

Annual Fee:

• $95
  While this card does have an annual fee, the rewards often outweigh the cost, especially if you spend heavily on groceries.

Welcome Bonus:

• $250 Statement Credit after spending $3,000 in the first 6 months.
  This bonus alone can offset the annual fee for the first two years.

Additional Benefits:

• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions (e.g., Netflix, Hulu).
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (e.g., tolls, parking, rideshares).
• 1% Cash Back on all other purchases.

Example of Grocery Rewards:

If you spend $500 per month on groceries ($6,000 annually), here’s how the rewards break down:

• 6% Cash Back on $6,000: $360
• 1% Cash Back on any amount over $6,000: If you spend $7,000, you’d earn an additional $10.
• Total Annual Rewards: $360 (or $370 if you exceed the $6,000 cap).

After subtracting the $95 annual fee, you’re left with $265–$275 in net rewards—far more than most no-annual-fee cards can offer.

How It Compares to Other Cards

Here’s how the American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Card stacks up against other top cards for grocery rewards:

Why the Blue Cash Preferred® Card Wins:

1. Highest Cash Back Rate: No other card offers 6% cash back on groceries.
2. Generous Spending Cap: The $6,000 annual cap is sufficient for most households.
3. Additional Perks: The card also rewards gas and transit purchases, making it a well-rounded option for everyday spending.

Who Should Get This Card?

• Families or Households: If you spend a significant amount on groceries each month, this card is ideal.
• Streaming Subscribers: The 6% cash back on streaming services adds extra value.
• Commuters: The 3% cash back on gas and transit is a nice bonus for those who drive or use public transportation.

Alternative: Blue Cash Everyday® Card from Amex

If you prefer a no-annual-fee option, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is a solid alternative. It offers:

• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000/year, then 1%).
• 2% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
• $200 Welcome Bonus after spending $2,000 in the first 6 months.

While the rewards are lower, the lack of an annual fee makes it a good choice for lighter grocery spenders.

Final Verdict

If groceries are one of your largest monthly expenses, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Card is the best card for maximizing rewards. Its 6% cash back rate is unmatched, and the annual fee is easily offset by the rewards you’ll earn. For those who want a no-annual-fee option, the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card or Blue Cash Everyday® Card are excellent alternatives.

Let me know if you’d like further assistance or a deeper comparison!

Here’s a comprehensive list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas. These FAQs address common concerns and provide clarity to help you make an informed decision.

FAQs About the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas

1. What makes a credit card good for groceries and gas?

A good credit card for groceries and gas offers high rewards rates (e.g., 3%–6% cash back or points) in these categories, has reasonable spending limits, and provides additional perks like welcome bonuses or no annual fees. Cards like the American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Card and Citi Custom Cash℠ Card are popular because they maximize rewards on these everyday expenses.

2. Which credit card offers the highest rewards for groceries?

The American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Card offers the highest rewards for groceries, with 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%). This makes it the best choice for households with significant grocery spending.

3. Which credit card offers the highest rewards for gas?

The Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi and Sam’s Club® Mastercard® are among the best for gas rewards, offering 4% and 5% cash back, respectively. However, these cards require a membership to Costco or Sam’s Club.

4. Are there no-annual-fee cards that offer good rewards for groceries and gas?

Yes! Some of the best no-annual-fee cards include:

• Citi Custom Cash Card: 5% cash back on your top spending category (e.g., groceries or gas).
• Blue Cash Everyday Card from Amex: 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets and 2% at U.S. gas stations.
• Chase Freedom Flex: 5% cash back in rotating quarterly categories (often including groceries and gas).

5. Can I use these cards at wholesale clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club?

Yes, but rewards vary:

• The Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi earns 2% cash back at Costco.
• The Sam’s Club Mastercard earns 5% cash back on gas (up to $6,000/year) and 3% on dining and travel.
• Other cards, like the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card, may not earn bonus rewards at wholesale clubs unless they are coded as supermarkets.

6. Do these cards have spending limits on bonus categories?

Yes, most cards have spending limits on bonus categories. For example:

• American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Card: 6% cash back on up to $6,000/year at U.S. supermarkets.
• Citi Custom Cash℠ Card: 5% cash back on up to $500/billing cycle in your top category.
• Chase Freedom Flex℠: 5% cash back on up to $1,500/quarter in rotating categories.

7. Are there cards that combine high rewards for both groceries and gas?

Yes, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Card is a great option, offering:

• 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets.
• 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations.

Another option is the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card, which allows you to choose 3% cash back in one category (e.g., gas) and 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs.

8. Can I earn rewards on gas purchases at any gas station?

Most cards reward gas purchases at any U.S. gas station, but it’s important to check the terms. For example:

• The Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi only earns 4% cash back at gas stations (including Costco gas).
• The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card earns 3% cash back at any U.S. gas station.

9. Do these cards offer welcome bonuses?

Many of these cards offer welcome bonuses, such as:

• American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card: $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 6 months.
• Chase Freedom Flex: $200 after spending $500 in the first 3 months.
• Citi Custom Cash Card: $200 cash back after spending $1,500 in the first 6 months.

10. Are there cards that offer rotating bonus categories for groceries and gas?

Yes, the Chase Freedom Flex and Discover it Cash Back cards offer 5% cash back in rotating quarterly categories, which often include groceries and gas. However, you must activate the bonus each quarter and stay within the spending limit (up to $1,500/quarter).

11. Can I use these cards for online grocery purchases?

Yes, most cards reward online grocery purchases as long as the merchant is coded as a supermarket. For example:

• The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card earns 6% cash back on eligible online grocery orders from U.S. supermarkets.
• The Blue Cash Everyday Card from Amex earns 3% cash back on online grocery purchases.

12. Are there cards that reward gas and groceries without an annual fee?

Yes, several no-annual-fee cards offer rewards for gas and groceries, including:

• Citi Custom Cash Card: 5% cash back on your top spending category.
• Blue Cash Everyday Card from Amex: 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets and 2% at U.S. gas stations.
• Chase Freedom Flex: 5% cash back in rotating categories (often including gas and groceries).

13. How do I maximize rewards on groceries and gas?

To maximize rewards:

• Use the American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Card for groceries (6% cash back).
• Use the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi or Sam’s Club Mastercard for gas (4%–5% cash back).
• Pair these cards with rotating category cards like the Chase Freedom Flex or Discover it® Cash Back for additional savings.

14. Can I use multiple cards to maximize rewards?

Yes! Many people use multiple cards to maximize rewards. For example:

• Use the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card for groceries.
• Use the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi for gas.
• Use the Chase Freedom Flex for rotating categories.

15. Are these cards worth it if I don’t spend much on groceries or gas?

If you don’t spend much on groceries or gas, a general rewards card with flat-rate cash back (e.g., Citi Double Cash Card) might be a better option. However, if you occasionally spend in these categories, a card like the Citi Custom Cash Card can still provide value by automatically rewarding your top spending category.

Conclusion

The 10 Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas listed above cater to a variety of spending habits and preferences. Whether you’re looking for high cash back, flexible rewards, or no annual fees, there’s a card on this list that can help you save money on your everyday expenses.

By choosing one of the Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas, you can turn your routine purchases into valuable rewards. Take the time to compare these options and select the card that best fits your lifestyle. Happy saving!

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