Even as many Americans cut back on discretionary spending, credit cards companies have been tripping over themselves to offer rewards recently, with welcome bonuses at all-time highs. If you’re in the market for a new card, now is a good time to get one.
Of the major credit cards, American Express and Chase have record offers for either cash back bonuses or rewards points. These enticements are limited-time offers that might disappear without notice (a recent Chase Sapphire 80,000-point welcome bonus is no longer available, as an example) so you might need to act fast. Of course, it must be said that if you are struggling to pay off your credit card balances already, you shouldn’t be chasing rewards.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s on offer, along with what the various bonuses are “worth,” according to The Points Guy:
American Express Gold Card
Amex is offering a record 60,000 points if you spend $4000 within six months, which is worth $1,200 according to the Points Guy.
$250 annual fee
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American Express Platinum Card
Amex is offering 75,000 points (worth $1,500 according to the Points Guy) if you spend $5,000 on purchases within 6 months of signing up for the card. This offer includes a very good 10x points on eligible purchases.
$550 ANNUAL FEE
American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card
You can earn $300 cash back after spending $3,000 in your first 6 months and you’re annual fee is waived for the first year (it’s $95 after that). Expires December 10.
$0 ANNUAL FEE IN THE FIRST YEAR
Chase Freedom Flex
Earn a $200 cash back bonus after you spend $500 in the first 3 months , plus 5% cash back on grocery store purchases, and 0% intro APR for the first 15 months
NO ANNUAL FEE
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
Earn 60,000 Bonus Points (which is worth $1,200 according to the Points Guy) when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
$95 Annual fee
