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The best credit cards with no annual fee can look very attractive: You won’t pay for the privilege of carrying them in your wallet, you can earn a welcome bonus and you can earn ongoing rewards. However, no annual fee credit cards are not all created equal. While they all share the lack of an upfront yearly cost, there’s a lot more to consider including welcome bonuses, cash back and points-earning opportunities, and other benefits. Additionally, you’ll need to think about a related question: Could a card with an annual fee be worth it?

Methodology

Our team of experts reviewed over 200 no annual fee credit cards, considering various factors including rewards, welcome bonuses, intro APR offers and benefits. Using a data-based approach, we narrowed down the list to the top 10 credit cards that scored highly based on our weightings. Read our full methodology below.

Show summary

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Key takeaways
1.25X
Earn unlimited 1.25x miles on every purchase, every day. Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
5X
Earn 5x miles on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
5/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best no annual fee credit card
Learn More
On CardRatings’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus offer

Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel

20,000 Miles
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.99% – 29.99% Variable
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

<div>Excellent, Good</div>
Why we picked it

The Capital One VentureOne is the best no annual fee credit card. Capital One’s hotel and airline transfer partners give you plenty of options to cash in your Capital One miles for more than the standard 1-cent-per-point valuation you will find with many no annual fee credit cards. Plus, if you’re working to reduce other outstanding credit card balances, the card’s 0% intro on balance transfers for 15 months, followed by a 19.99% – 29.99% (Variable) APR can be a valuable tool.

+ Pros
  • 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers (then a 19.99% – 29.99% Variable APR)
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Possible to transfer miles to participating loyalty programs
– Cons
  • Requires strong credit history
  • Travel must be booked through Capital One Travel to earn bonus rewards
  • May charge a high regular APR (19.99% – 29.99% Variable)
Highlights
  • 1.25x miles on most purchases
  • 5x miles on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • 20,000 miles after spending $500 on purchases within three months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, 19.99% – 29.99% variable APR after that; 3% balance transfer fee for the first 15 months, 4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you
  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fee

Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card

Key takeaways
2%
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card
Rates & Fees
4.9/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best card for flat-rate cash rewards
Apply Now
On Wells Fargo’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus offer

Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months

$200 Cash Rewards
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% Variable APR
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

<div>Good, Excellent</div>
Why we picked it

The Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card (Rates & Fees) eliminates the need for any complicated rewards-related math thanks to its simple structure: You’ll earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases. The card’s 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening (then 19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% Variable APR thereafter) applies to new purchases and eligible balance transfers, giving a runway to avoid finance charges and pay down other credit card debt. However, this Wells Fargo credit card is not a good fit for international travel due to a foreign transaction fee.

+ Pros
  • Welcome bonus of $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months
  • Offers cell phone protection
  • 0% APR offer on new purchases and balance transfers for?12 months (then 19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% Variable APR thereafter)
– Cons
  • Charges 3% foreign transaction fee
  • No bonus rewards categories
  • Limited perks
Highlights
  • Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
  • Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
  • 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
  • $0 annual fee.
  • No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
  • Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature? Concierge.
  • Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.

Chase Freedom Unlimited?

Key takeaways
1.5%
Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on up to $20,000 spent in the first year
5%
After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel?
3%
3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service
Chase Freedom Unlimited?
4.8/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best card for bonus categories and base rewards
Apply Now
On Chase Bank USA, NA’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus offer

Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel?, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.

up to $300 cash back
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.99% – 28.74% Variable
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

<div>Good/Excellent</div>
Why we picked it

The Chase Freedom Unlimited offers a solid mix of bonus categories: Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel?, our premier rewards program that?lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases. Plus, your rewards rate never dips below 1.5% cash back — a notable feature, as a number of no annual fee cards pay 1% cash back in non-bonus categories.

+ Pros
  • Generous welcome offer for a no-annual-fee card
  • No annual fee
  • 15-month 0% introductory APR (then a 19.99% – 28.74% Variable APR ongoing)
– Cons
  • Ongoing balance transfer fee is high
  • Not eligible to transfer points to airline and hotel loyalty program partners
  • Charges a foreign transaction fee
Highlights
  • INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) – worth up to $300 cash back!
  • Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that?lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
  • After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back.?You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire?as long as your account is open!
  • Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% – 28.74%.
  • No annual fee –?You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
  • Member FDIC

Chase Freedom Flex?

*

The information for the Chase Freedom Flex? has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Key takeaways
5%
Earn 5% cash back in categories that rotate quarterly on up to $1,500 when enrolled
5%
5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards?
3%
3% on dining and drugstores and 1% on all other purchases
Chase Freedom Flex?
4.7/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best card for rotating bonus categories
Welcome bonus offer

Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 5% cash back on combined gas station and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year

$200 bonus + 5% on Gas and Grocery (excluding Target and Walmart)
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.99% – 28.74% Variable
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

<div>Excellent, Good</div>
Why we picked it

The Freedom Flex runs alongside its sibling – the Chase Freedom Unlimited – but with one key difference: The card pays 5% cash back on up to $1,500 spent (then 1%) in rotating quarterly categories when you activate. That’s a $75 value each quarter if you max out the spend on top of the value you can get from 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase, 3% back on dining and 3% back at drugstores. However, the card’s standard 1% cash back rate outside of bonus categories is lower than the Unlimited’s 1.5% rate.

+ Pros
  • Earn 5% back on eligible travel and purchases in rotating categories
  • 15-month 0% intro APR (then 19.99% – 28.74% Variable APR)
  • No annual fee
– Cons
  • Quarterly cash back category capped at $1,500 in combined purchases each quarter
  • Charges a foreign transaction fee
  • Redemption options don’t include transferring to airline and hotel loyalty partners
Highlights
  • Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
  • 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
  • 5% cash back?on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that?lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
  • 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99%-28.74%.
  • No annual fee –?You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex® card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health – Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
  • Member FDIC

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

Key takeaways
8%
Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
3%
Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart? and Target?)
5%
Earn 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
1%
Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
4.6/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best card for dining
Learn More
On CardRatings’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus offer

Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening

$200
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.99% – 29.99% Variable
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

<div>Good/Excellent</div>
Why we picked it

The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card always satisfies a foodie’s appetite for rewards with a standard 3% cash back rate on dining — that’s why it ranks on our list of the best credit cards for restaurants. Another selling point is the lack of a foreign transaction fee, which separates it from some of the other entries on our list.

+ Pros
  • High cash back rate in certain categories
  • 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months (then a 19.99% – 29.99% Variable APR)
  • No foreign transaction fee
– Cons
  • Requires strong credit
  • Low base rewards rate
  • May charge a high regular APR (19.99% – 29.99% Variable)
Highlights
  • 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (not including superstores such as Walmart? and Target?)
  • 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment
  • 1% back on purchases outside of bonus categories
  • $200 cash bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months from account opening
  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% – 29.99% variable APR after that; 3% fee on the amounts transferred within the first 15 months
  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fee

Wells Fargo Autograph? Card

Key takeaways
3X
Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up – like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans
1X
Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases
Wells Fargo Autograph? Card
Rates & Fees
4.2/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best card for welcome bonus
Apply Now
On Wells Fargo’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus offer

Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value.

20,000 bonus points
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% Variable APR
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

<div>Good, Excellent</div>
Why we picked it

The Wells Fargo Autograph? Card (Rates & Fees) has the strongest welcome bonus on our list when it comes to fast payoff: 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first three months. The card pays 3x points in key categories, too: restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, select streaming services and phone bills.

+ Pros
  • Welcome bonus is valued at $200
  • 3x points on a wide range of spending categories
  • No foreign transaction fee
– Cons
  • Welcome bonus spend threshold of $1,000
  • 12-month 0% intro APR (then 19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% Variable APR ongoing) does not include balance transfers and is shorter than some other offers
  • Low base rewards rate
Highlights
  • Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
  • Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value.
  • Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up – like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
  • $0 annual fee.
  • 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% variable APR thereafter.
  • Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
  • Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.
  • Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature? Concierge.

Bilt Mastercard?

Key takeaways
3X
3X points on dining
2X
2X points on travel
1X
1X points on rent payments (up to a maximum 100,000 points each calendar year)
1X
1X points on other eligible purchases
Earn
Use the card 5 times each statement period to earn points; otherwise, earn a flat 250 points on rent when you use the Bilt Mastercard to pay rent through the Bilt app or website.
Bilt Mastercard?
Rates & Fees
4.2/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best card for paying rent
Apply Now
On Wells Fargo’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus offer

N/A

N/A
Annual fee
None
Regular APR
See Terms
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

<div>Good/Excellent</div>
Why we picked it

Your landlord doesn’t have to be the only one who earns money from your rent check. The Bilt Mastercard pays 1 Bilt Rewards point per dollar on your rent bill (up to 100,000 points in a calendar year, see rewards & benefits), and there is no credit card transaction fee. Plus, if your property management company still requires physical checks, Bilt will issue a check on your behalf. For anyone who lives in a Bilt Alliance property, the card can report rental payments to the three major credit bureaus.

+ Pros
  • Earn points on rent at any apartment
  • Earn double points on the first day of each month (excluding rent)
– Cons
  • Doesn’t offer welcome bonus
  • Card needs to be used 5 times each statement period to earn points
  • No introductory APR
Highlights
  • 3X points on dining
  • 2X points on travel
  • 1X points on rent payments (up to a maximum 100,000 points each calendar year)
  • 1X points on other eligible purchases
  • Use the card 5 times each statement period to earn points; otherwise, earn a flat 250 points on rent when you use the Bilt Mastercard to pay rent through the Bilt app or website.
  • Rewards & benefits terms

Citi Double Cash? Card

*

The information for the Citi Double Cash? Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Key takeaways
1%
First, you earn 1% unlimited cash back on every purchase you make
1%
Then, as you pay for those purchases, you earn an additional 1% cash back on those credit card payments
Citi Double Cash? Card
Rates & Fees
4.1/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best card for balance transfers
Welcome bonus offer

Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou? Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

Earn $200 cash back
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.24% – 29.24% Variable
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

<div>Excellent, Good, Fair </div>
Why we picked it

If you are carrying a sizable balance on another credit card, the Citi Double Cash offers an 18 months 0% intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers APR to help get that bill to zero (then an ongoing 19.24% – 29.24% Variable APR). It’s the longest 0% introductory APR on balance transfers of any of the cards on our list, and that extra time can add up to some big savings. Make sure you transfer the balance quickly, though: There’s a balance transfer fee of 3% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum within the first four months of account opening, but it jumps to a 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum after four months of account opening.

+ Pros
  • No annual fee
  • Unlimited cash back
  • Long intro APR on balance transfers
– Cons
  • Flat earnings rate
  • No travel or purchase protections
  • Foreign transaction fees
Highlights
  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou? Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel? portal through 12/31/25.
  • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% – 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).

U.S. Bank Altitude? Go Visa Signature? Card

*

The information for the U.S. Bank Altitude? Go Visa Signature? Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Key takeaways
4X
Earn 4 points per dollar on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery
2X
Earn 2 points per dollar at grocery stores, grocery delivery, gas stations and on streaming services
1X
Earn 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases
U.S. Bank Altitude? Go Visa Signature? Card
4/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best card for streaming
Welcome bonus offer

Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. That’s a $200 value redeemable towards merchandise, gift cards, cash back, travel and more

20,000 bonus points
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
18.24% – 29.24% (Variable)
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

<div>Excellent Credit</div>
Why we picked it

It’s a close competition for the best card for streaming purchases, but the Altitude Go takes the top spot due to a $15 annual credit for streaming services like Netflix, Spotify and Apple TV+. Additionally, spending on eligible streaming services earns 2 points per dollar. U.S. Bank’s list of eligible streaming services is long, and includes services like NBA League Pass, Paramount+ and YouTube TV.

+ Pros
  • $15 annual credit on streaming services
  • 4 points per dollar on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery, 2 points per dollar at grocery stores, grocery delivery, gas stations, streaming services and on EV charging stations and 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases
  • Welcome bonus of 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening
– Cons
  • No bonus on flights, hotels or other travel purchases
  • U.S. Bank doesn’t have any travel transfer partners
  • Low base rewards rate
Highlights
  • Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. That’s a $200 value redeemable towards merchandise, gift cards, cash back, travel and more
  • 4 points per dollar spent on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery
  • 2 points per dollar spent on streaming services and a $15 credit for annual streaming purchases
  • 2 points per dollar spent at grocery stores and delivery, gas stations, and EV charging stations (excluding discount stores, supercenters and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024)
  • 1 point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases
  • No annual fee
  • Points never expire

Discover it? Student Cash Back

*

The information for the Discover it? Student Cash Back has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Key takeaways
5%
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate
1%
Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically
Discover it? Student Cash Back
3.9/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best card for students
Welcome bonus offer

Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match? – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.

Cashback Match?
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
17.74% – 26.74% Variable APR
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

<div>Fair/New to Credit</div>
Why we picked it

The Discover it? Student Cash Back * The information for the Discover it? Student Cash Back has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. comes with graduate-level rewards: 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.. The Discover 5% cash back calendar often includes popular spending categories, like dining, gas or streaming. Plus, Discover will match all of the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year. No Discover credit cards charge an annual fee or foreign transaction fee, either (though Discover isn’t as widely accepted abroad as Visa or Mastercard).

+ Pros
  • Matches all the cash back you earn during your first year
  • High rewards rate on rotating spending categories
  • Introductory 0% APR for six months promotion (then ongoing 17.74% – 26.74% Variable APR)
– Cons
  • Low base rewards rate
  • Ongoing APR can be high
  • Bonus rewards are capped
Highlights
  • Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
  • Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
  • No credit score required to apply.
  • Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
  • No annual fee and build your credit with responsible use.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 17.74% – 26.74% applies.
  • Terms and conditions apply.

Our picks at a glance

Welcome bonusRewards earning rateBest for0% APR promotion
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
20,000 miles after spending $500 on purchases within three months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
1.25 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day; 5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
No annual fee
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; 3% balance transfer fee for the first 15 months, 4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you
Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Flat-rate cash rewards
0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers, then a 19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% Variable APR applies. Balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a fee of up to 5%, with a minimum of $5 applies.
Chase Freedom Unlimited?
additional 1.5% cash back on up to $20,000 spent in the first year, worth up to $300 cash back
Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel?, our premier rewards program that?lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases
Bonus categories and base rewards
0% introductory APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74% applies. An intro transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater, applies in the first 60 days of account opening. After that, a fee of either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer applies

Chase Freedom Flex? * The information for the Chase Freedom Flex? has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

$200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first three months from account opening
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter! Plus, earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel?, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.
Rotating bonus categories
0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74% applies. Intro balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater in the first 60 days, after that either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater applies
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
$200 cash bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
3% Cash Back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart? and Target?); 5 % Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply); 8 % Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases; 1 % Cash Back on all other purchases
Dining
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; 3% fee on the amounts transferred within the first 15 months
Wells Fargo Autograph? Card
20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first three months
Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases
Welcome bonus
0% introductory APR on purchases for 12 months from account opening. A variable APR of 19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% applies for purchases after the intro period ends and for balance transfers. The card has a balance transfer fee of up to 5%, minimum $5
Bilt Mastercard?
None
3x points on dining (doubled to 6x points on the first day of each month) by using the card five times each statement period to earn points (see rewards & benefits)
Paying rent
None

Citi Double Cash? Card * The information for the Citi Double Cash? Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

$200 cash back after spending $1,500 on purchases in the first six months of account opening, fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou? Points
2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel? portal through 12/31/25
Balance transfers
0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months. After that, the standard variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on creditworthiness. An intro balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3%, whichever is greater, applies to transfers completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, the fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5)

U.S. Bank Altitude? Go Visa Signature? Card * The information for the U.S. Bank Altitude? Go Visa Signature? Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening
4 points per dollar on dining, 2 points per dollar at gas stations and EV charging stations and on groceries and eligible streaming service spending, and 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases
Streaming
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles, followed by a regular variable APR of 18.24% - 29.24%. A balance transfer fee of 3% applies ($5 minimum)

Discover it? Student Cash Back * The information for the Discover it? Student Cash Back has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Unlimited Cashback Match? - Discover will automatically match all the cash back earned at the end of the first year. There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards
5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases
Students
0% intro APR on purchases for six months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 17.74% - 26.74% applies

Is a no annual fee credit card right for you?

A no annual fee credit card may be a good choice for you if you prefer not to spend money upfront for the privilege of using a card — even if the benefits and rewards you receive are more valuable than the fee. You’ll also want to ask yourself these questions before you commit to a card:

  • How much are you planning to use the card? If you don’t plan to charge many purchases to the card, a no annual fee card may be the best option for you.
  • What does your credit history look like? If you have a limited credit history or past negative marks on your profile, you may not qualify for the best no annual fee credit cards. Instead, you may need to consider the best cards for bad credit, which also do not charge annual fees.
  • What is your regular spending routine? Consider the potentially high rewards rates on a card with an annual fee for categories such as grocery shopping, travel and dining out. If you spend a lot in a certain area, you may be able to easily offset an annual fee with your rewards.

What are no annual fee credit cards?

No annual fee credit cards are exactly what they sound like: They are cards that do not charge a yearly cost for an account. However, you can still wind up paying other costs for using the card. If the card charges foreign transaction fees, you will need to pay if you use it for international spending. And if you transfer a balance from another card, be prepared to pay a cost based on the total transfer amount.

Some credit cards advertise a $0 annual fee in the first year, but then charge an annual fee starting in the second year. These are not part of the no annual fee credit card category. Instead, they offer a lower cost to sweeten the deal for new customers.

Pros and cons of no annual fee credit cards

Applying for a new credit card is a big financial decision that will impact your credit. Before you decide to add a new card to your wallet, weigh the potential advantages and drawbacks of credit cards with no annual fees.

Pros

  • No yearly cost for using the card
  • May offer welcome bonuses
  • May offer bonus points and cash back opportunities for certain spending categories

Cons

  • May offer smaller welcome bonuses than cards with an annual fee
  • May offer smaller rewards payouts than premium cards with annual fees
  • May still charge other fees

How to choose the best no annual fee credit card for you

Know your credit score and card options

While lenders rarely offer public information about exact credit score requirements, your score will play a key role in your application. Some credit cards with no annual fee are reserved for those with good to excellent credit.

For example, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card and Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card both require excellent credit, which Capital One defines as having never declared bankruptcy or defaulted on a loan, having never missed a bill’s due date by more than 60 days and having already maintained a loan or a credit card for at least three years with a minimum credit limit of $5,000.

Know what kind of rewards you want to earn

No annual fee credit cards earn different types of rewards. Some offer straightforward cash back that you can apply as statement credits or convert into cash. Others earn points that act as a currency in the issuer’s rewards program that you may be able to spend on travel, merchandise, gift cards and more. If you are a frequent traveler, you may be well-suited for a co-branded card, such as the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card * The information for the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , that will earn points or miles for one airline or hotel brand you really love.

Evaluate your spending habits

Some no annual fee credit cards pay a flat rewards rate that applies to every purchase, and others pay higher rates in certain spending categories. Look at your online banking statements to analyze past spending patterns and determine which kind of rewards structure is a better fit. For example, if you do all the grocery shopping for your household or you do a lot of driving for work, look for a card that offers elevated earning potential at supermarkets or gas stations.

Consider what other benefits are important to you

In addition to avoiding an annual fee, think about your other priorities for a new card. Do you travel outside the US? You’ll want to find a card that doesn’t charge any foreign transaction fees. Are you working to pay off another credit card? Look for a card that offers a 0% introductory APR on balance transfers. While you will likely still need to pay a one-time fee to transfer the balance, you may be able to get up to 21 months of interest-free time to tackle that debt.

How to maximize your no annual fee credit card

With a no annual fee credit card, you’re looking at all upside since you don’t have to hit any rewards amount to break even. With that in mind, follow these tips to make the most of carrying that card in your wallet:

  • Hit your welcome bonus spending threshold. Some no annual fee credit cards offer bonuses if you spend a certain amount of money shortly after opening the account. A common offer is a $200 welcome bonus after spending $500 in the first three months.
  • Take advantage of any introductory APR offer. Your card may offer an introductory period with a 0% APR, which can be valuable in paying off big purchases without racking up any financing charges. In some cases, the 0% offer also applies to balance transfers, which can help you save money if you have been struggling to pay down another credit card. If you are planning to transfer a balance, do it with a defined strategy to get that debt down to zero.
  • Know when to use it. If you’re carrying multiple credit cards in your wallet, know which card is best for certain spending situations. For example, if your no annual fee credit card pays an elevated cash back rate at drug stores or grocery stores, make sure you’re using it to rack up more value.
  • Pay your balance in full every month. Consider this to be your golden rule that applies to every kind of credit card, regardless of its fee structure. As long as you pay off your statement balance on time, you won’t pay any interest.

Are credit cards with annual fees worth it?

Paying an annual fee for a credit card can work in your favor, particularly if the card offers a sign-up bonus. And if the rewards structure aligns with your regular spending habits, you can justify paying the cost each year based on your ability to accumulate enough points or cash back to deliver a greater value than the annual fee.

When a no annual fee card isn’t ideal

Consider the breakdown between the Chase Sapphire Preferred? Card (one of the best rewards credit cards) and the Chase Freedom Flex? * The information for the Chase Freedom Flex? has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. :

Chase Sapphire Preferred? CardChase Freedom Flex?
Annual fee
$95
$0
Welcome bonus
60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first three months from account opening. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel purchases within your first year
$200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first three months from account opening
Extra value to consider
$50 annual hotel credit for stays booked through Chase
Point boost of 10% of your previous year’s purchases on each account anniversary
N/A
Quarterly category bonus
N/A
5% cash back on up to $1,500 of purchases each quarter (then 1%) in rotating categories
5x rewards
Chase Travel
Chase Travel
3x rewards
Dining, takeout/delivery, online grocery services and streaming services
Dining, takeout/delivery and drugstores
2x rewards
Travel booked outside of Chase Travel
N/A
All other purchases
1 point per dollar
1% cash back

For regular travelers who are booking reservations directly with hotels and buying flights directly with airlines, the Chase Sapphire Preferred? Card’s 2x points on travel can justify the annual fee. For example, spending $5,000 on non-Chase Travel each year will earn $100 in rewards ($125 in value when redeemed for travel via Chase). Additionally, for travelers who will take advantage of booking via Chase, the $50 annual hotel credit for the Chase Sapphire Preferred? Card can offset more than half the card’s annual fee.

Consider, too, if you value benefits such as free checked bags, statement credits or top-tier travel protections that you don’t often find on no annual fee cards.

For example, when you have the Delta SkyMiles? Gold American Express Card (terms apply, see rates and fees), you’ll get a free first checked bag on Delta flights and priority boarding for yourself and up to eight companions on the same reservation. Delta charges $30 each way for the first checked bag, so if you fly Delta even a few times a year, you could easily recoup the card’s $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.

In comparison, the no annual fee Delta SkyMiles? Blue American Express Card doesn’t offer free bags or priority boarding, so if you frequently pay to check bags, you’ll likely save money by choosing a Delta credit card with an annual fee.

Annual fee credit cards vs. no annual fee: Do the math

To figure out if paying an annual fee for a credit card makes sense, you’ll need to make some calculations. First, look at the card’s rewards categories. Estimate how much you spend each year in those categories, and use that figure to find the annual value of the rewards you’d earn.

If that value is higher than the annual fee, you can feel confident that the card is a good deal, as long as you don’t incur interest charges or transaction fees on the card. However, you’ll also want to consider the no annual fee version of the card (if there is one) to see how big the rewards difference is. Also weigh the card’s other benefits and how much they’re worth to you.

For simplicity, let’s look at a single spending category. The Blue Cash Preferred? Card from American Express (terms apply, see rates and fees) is on our best credit cards for groceries list for its high cash back earning rates: 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) and 1% cash back on other eligible purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.

If you spent $6,000 in a year at U.S. supermarkets, you’d earn a total of $360 ($6,000 x 6%). That’s much more than the card’s $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. Even after the first year, you’d have a net gain of $265 ($360 – $95).

However, the no annual fee Blue Cash Everyday? Card from American Express (terms apply, see rates and fees) may be more appealing if you don’t spend as much on groceries. That card earns 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and online retail purchases in the U.S. on up to $6,000 in each category per year in purchases (then 1%) and 1% cash back on other eligible purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.

With the Blue Cash Everyday Card, if you spent $6,000 at U.S. supermarkets in a year, you’d net $180 in rewards ($6,000 x 3%). That’s less than you’d gain by spending the same amount on the Blue Cash Preferred, but what if you don’t spend that much on groceries?

Here’s how to find the break-even point: If you divide $95 (the Blue Cash Preferred’s annual fee after the first year) by 3% (the percentage-point difference between the earning rates), you’ll get $3,166.67.

Spend exactly that, and you’ll earn the same net amount on groceries with either card — $0 with the Blue Cash Everyday Card, and $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 ($190 – $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee) with the Blue Cash Preferred.

If you spend less than $3,166.67 on groceries annually, you’ll be better off with the no annual fee Blue Cash Everyday Card. Spend more, and the Blue Cash Preferred will net you more cash back, even with the annual fee.

Now who said you’d never use your high school algebra in real life?

Methodology

Our money and data analytics teams evaluated over 200 credit cards that do not charge an annual fee. From there, we narrowed down our list of the best no annual fee credit cards by giving them a star rating out of five, based on the following factors and our editorial judgment:

Rewards value (30%)

Not all credit card points and miles have the same value. We used spending data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and valuations from The Points Guy to determine which cards dole out the best rewards value.

Welcome bonus value (30%)

Many cards offer bonus cash back, points or miles to consumers who spend a certain amount in their first months with the card. We calculated how much those bonuses are worth using points valuations from The Points Guy, and boosted cards that offer more value.

Benefits (20%)

Cards that offer benefits such as cell phone protection, purchase protection, extended warranty and a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers received a boost.

Pricing and fees (10%)

Cards with no foreign transaction fee and lower variable APRs received a boost compared to cards with higher fees and rates.

Annual credits and bonuses (5%)

Credit cards that come with credits and bonuses for spending in categories including groceries, dining, entertainment and gas received a boost.

Low credit threshold (5%)

No annual fee cards that are available to consumers with subpar credit received a boost compared to cards with higher minimum credit requirements.

What didn’t make the cut

If you’ve been comparing options for the best credit cards with no annual fee, you might be surprised to see a few omissions from our list. However, there are good reasons that the following cards didn’t crack our top 10.

  • Discover it? Cash Back * The information for the Discover it? Cash Back has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. : Like Chase Freedom Flex? * The information for the Chase Freedom Flex? has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , the Discover it? Cash Back * The information for the Discover it? Cash Back has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. earns 5% cash back on purchases at different places each quarter up to $1,500 spent each quarter when activated and 1% cash back on all other purchases. However, the Freedom Flex is a more versatile everyday card with 3% cash back at drugstores, 3% cash back on dining and 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase — all of which beat out the standard 1% cash back on every purchase with the Discover it? Cash Back * The information for the Discover it? Cash Back has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. .
  • Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card: The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card loses in a head-to-head battle with the Capital One VentureOne. All Venture cards come with the ability to transfer miles to Capital One’s travel partners, which can create higher value and take you further – literally.
  • Citi Custom Cash? Card * The information for the Citi Custom Cash? Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. : While the Citi Custom Cash Card offers 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel? portal through 6/30/2026.
  • Blue Cash Everyday? Card from American Express: The Blue Cash Everyday Card’s (terms apply, see rates and fees) welcome bonus is significantly harder to reach than the Capital One VentureOne: It requires $2,000 of spending, compared to just $500 for the VentureOne. Plus, this card isn’t a good option if you’re planning to travel outside the U.S. due to a foreign transaction fee of 2.70.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Credit cards that charge an annual fee often have bigger welcome bonuses with higher minimum spending requirements. Cards with annual fees also often offer additional benefits compared to cards from the same issuer that do not have an annual fee. Some cards that charge an annual fee are geared toward consumers with bad credit and do not offer strong rewards.

Yes, issuers can waive annual fees on a credit card. If you are encountering financial hardship or you are considering canceling a card, you may want to call the number on the back of your card to ask about the potential for waiving or reducing the next fee installment.

You may be able to get a credit card with no annual fee if you have bad or limited credit. In some cases, you will need to pay a security deposit that will act as your credit limit. As long as the deposit is refundable, you will get the money back with responsible credit behavior, including making on-time payments. Additionally, the issuer may offer the option to upgrade to an unsecured card.

Yes, some no annual fee credit cards also have no foreign transaction fees. The Capital One VentureOne, Chase Freedom Unlimited and the Autograph Card all have no annual cost and no foreign transaction fees, for example.

Cards including the Freedom Flex, Chase Freedom Unlimited and the Autograph Card offer insurance on rental cars. Before you use any credit card to insure your car rental, make sure you read the terms and conditions to determine what will be covered.

To view rates and fees for Blue Cash Everyday? Card from American Express please visit this page.

To view rates and fees for Blue Cash Preferred? Card from American Express please visit this page.

All information about Chase Freedom Flex?, Citi Custom Cash? Card, Citi Double Cash? Card, Discover it? Cash Back, Discover it? Student Cash Back, IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card and U.S. Bank Altitude? Go Visa Signature? Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines, hotel chain, or other commercial entity and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of such entities.

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended and should not be understood to constitute financial, investment, insurance or legal advice. All individuals are encouraged to seek advice from a qualified financial professional before making any financial, insurance or investment decisions.

Note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed or may no longer be available.

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