233 Credit Cards With Signup Bonuses (Many over $1,000)

Credit card companies roll out the red carpet to get new card members. From cash to points to miles, signup bonuses abound from top card issuers. It’s for that reason that I compiled this exhaustive list of credit card sign-up bonuses, deals, and promotions. In total, we have 233 credit cards in our database that offer a bonus to new card members.

Below you’ll find the newest offers on our list, then some of the best signup bonuses we’ve found, followed by a massive list of cards with bonuses that you can sort and filter. Our team has spent thousands of hours compiling this data. If you know of other cards not on our list that should be, please let us know.

New Bonus Offers

There have been several increases to bonus offers this month that get pretty close to $1,000. We don’t know how long these offers will last:

  • The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card increased its welcome offer by a whopping 70,000 points! New offer: Earn 155,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card doubled its offer and then some, adding 95,000 points. New offer: Earn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • The Hilton Honors American Express Card increased its welcome offer by 20,000 points. New offer: Earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 4/17/24.
  • The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card increased its welcome offer by 30,000 points. New offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
  • The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card increased its welcome offer by 40,000 points. New offer: Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
  • The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card increased its welcome offer by 40,000 points. New offer: Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.

Best Credit Card Signup Bonuses

The following credit cards offer cash or statement credit bonuses for new card members.

Credit CardWelcome OfferAllCards Review
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit CardEnjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account openingREVIEW
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit CardEarn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account openingREVIEW
Capital One Savor Rewards Credit CardEarn a one-time $300 cash bonus once you spend $3,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening.REVIEW
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American ExpressEarn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months. Terms Apply.REVIEW
Citi Custom Cash® CardEarn $200 in cash back after you spend $1500 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.REVIEW
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit CardOne-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account openingREVIEW
 Citi® Double Cash Card - 18 month BT offer 

Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of your Citi Double Cash® card account opening.

REVIEW
 Chase Freedom Unlimited® 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.REVIEW
Chase Freedom Flex(SM)Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.REVIEW
The Platinum Card® from American ExpressEarn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.REVIEW
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit CardEarn 75,000 online bonus points — a $750 value — after you make at least $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.READ MORE
Chase Sapphire Preferred® CardEarn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.REVIEW
Chase Sapphire Reserve®Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.REVIEW
American Express® Gold CardEarn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.REVIEW
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit CardEarn 165,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.REVIEW
Hilton Honors American Express CardEarn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 4/17/24. Terms Apply.REVIEW
Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® CardEarn 155,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.REVIEW
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® CardEarn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.REVIEW
United℠ Explorer CardEarn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.REVIEW
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit CardEarn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.REVIEW
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express CardEarn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months. Terms Apply.REVIEW
Wells Fargo AutographSM CardEarn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value.REVIEW

You can find signup bonuses on business credit cards here.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card also offers a high welcome bonus. This card doesn’t offer as many travel perks as the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card we mentioned above, but it does pack a great punch for the annual fee. You can earn 2x miles on every purchase and 5x miles on hotels and car rentals.

Rewards:

2x miles
All eligible purchases
2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
5x miles
Hotels
5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Signup Bonus: Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
  • Annual Fee: $95
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved07/11/2023
691
Experian
$5,000


Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers a high welcome bonus. You get 10,000 miles on your cardmember anniversary, too. Earn up to 10x miles per $1 spent on select purchases. The card also offers an annual $300 credit on travel booked through Capital One Travel.

Rewards:

2x miles
On all other eligible purchases
2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
5x miles
Airfare
5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel
10x miles
Hotels
10 Miles per dollar on hotels booked through Capital One Travel
10x miles
Rental Cars
10 Miles per dollar on rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Signup Bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Annual Fee: $395
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved02/01/2022
751
Experian
$10,000
Approved02/01/2022
775
TransUnion
$10,000
Approved02/01/2022
802
Equifax
$10,000
Approved02/28/2022
779
Experian
$30,000
Approved04/13/2022
800
Equifax
$30,000
Approved10/19/2023
776
Not Provided
$20,000
Approved12/16/2021
731
Experian
$10,000
Approved01/26/2022
742
Experian
$10,000
Approved01/26/2022
754
TransUnion
$10,000
Approved01/26/2022
756
Equifax
$10,000


Capital One Savor Rewards Credit Card

With the Capital One Savor Rewards Credit Card, you can earn unlimited 4% cash back on dining, select streaming, and entertainment, plus 3% cash back at grocery stores plus 10% cash back on Uber and Uber Eats. There are many ways to redeem your rewards, and you don’t have to do it in $25 increments, as some cards require.

Rewards:

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
3% cash back
U.S. supermarkets
Earn 3% cash back at grocery stores. (Excludes superstores like Walmart® and Target®.)
4% cash back
Streaming services
Earn unlimited 4% cash back on popular streaming services.
4% cash back
Dining
Earn unlimited 4% cash back on dining.
4% cash back
Entertainment
Earn unlimited 4% cash back on entertainment.
5% cash back
Hotels
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels booked through Capital One Travel.
5% cash back
Rental Cars
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
8% cash back
Entertainment
Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases.
10% cash back
Select Categories
Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024.
  • Welcome Bonus: Earn a one-time $300 cash bonus once you spend $3,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual Fee: $95
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved09/22/2022
630
TransUnion
$3,000
Denied08/20/2022
634
Not Provided
---


Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express has an easy-to-earn welcome offer and up to 6% cash back. The annual fee is $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. Its most popular feature is its cash back at grocery stores and streaming services.

Rewards:

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
1% cash back on all other eligible purchases
3% cash back
Gas
3% cash back at U.S. gas stations
3% cash back
Transit
3% cash back on transit, such as taxis, rideshare, parking, tolls, trains and buses
6% cash back
U.S. supermarkets
6% cash back on groceries up to $6,000 per year in purchases at U.S. supermarkets, then 1%
6% cash back
Streaming services
6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
  • Welcome Offer: Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
  • 0% Intro APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 19.24% - 29.99%
  • Annual Fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

*Terms Apply

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved01/19/2023
825
Not Provided
$6,000
Approved05/04/2023
738
Experian
$20,000
Approved05/04/2023
748
TransUnion
$20,000
Approved05/04/2023
755
Equifax
$20,000


Citi Custom Cash® Card

The Citi Custom Cash® Card offers one of the easier-to-earn welcome bonuses available. The card offers up to 5% cash back and charges no annual fee. Its most popular feature is its 5% cash back on the top eligible spend category each billing cycle on up to $500 spent.

Rewards:

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
5% cash back
Select Categories
Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter.
  • Signup Bonus: Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $1500 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.
  • 0% Intro APR: 0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months and for balance transfers for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Annual Fee: $0
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved02/06/2023
748
Experian
$3,800
Approved02/06/2023
759
TransUnion
$3,800
Approved02/06/2023
761
Equifax
$3,800
Approved10/04/2023
784
Experian
$5,300
Approved10/04/2023
801
TransUnion
$5,300
Approved10/04/2023
811
Equifax
$5,300
Approved09/13/2023
800
Not Provided
$11,600
Approved10/24/2023
720
Equifax
$8,000
Approved07/17/2023
790
Equifax
$3,000
Approved01/17/2023
800
TransUnion
$5,300
Denied05/12/2023
800
Not Provided
---


Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card offers a great bonus for the little amount you have to spend to get it. The card offers 1.5% cash back on purchases and charges no annual fee. It charges no foreign transaction fees and offers a 0% intro rate.

Rewards:

1.5% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 1.5% cash back on all other eligible purchases
5% cash back
Hotels
Earn 5% cash back on hotels booked through Capital One Travel
5% cash back
Rental Cars
Earn 5% cash back on car rentals booked through Capital One Travel
  • Signup Bonus: One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
  • 0% Intro APR: 0% APR on purchases for 15 months and for balance transfers for 15 months, then 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR
  • Annual Fee: $0
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Denied06/30/2023
768
Not Provided
---


Citi® Double Cash Card - 18 month BT offer

Citi® Double Cash Card - 18 month BT offer doesn’t often have welcome offers, so if you are considering this card, now is the time to apply. And that 2% on every purchase is pretty sweet, especially if you pay your card every month (Citi pays 1% when you purchase and 1% when you pay the bill).

Rewards:   

2% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
  • Signup Bonus: Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of your Citi Double Cash® card account opening.
  • 0% APR Offer: Get 0% APR on balance transfers for the first 18 months, after which your rate will be 19.24% - 29.24% variable, depending on creditworthiness.
  • Annual Fee: $0
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved06/20/2023
803
Not Provided
---
Approved07/11/2023
667
Equifax
$3,000
Denied01/10/2023
737
Equifax
---


Chase Freedom Unlimited®

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® has a welcome 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. The card offers up to 5% cash back and there’s no annual fee. Its most popular feature is its cash back on travel.

Rewards:

1.5% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 1.5% cash back on all other purchases
3% cash back
Drugstores
Earn 3% on drugstore purchases
3% cash back
Dining
Earn 3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
5% cash back
Travel
5% cash back on all travel purchased through Chase Travel(SM)
  • Signup Bonus: 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.
  • 0% Intro APR: Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
  • Annual Fee: $0
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved03/20/2023
785
Experian
$5,000
Approved07/18/2023
765
Experian
$12,500
Approved07/18/2023
773
TransUnion
$12,500
Approved07/18/2023
785
Equifax
$12,500
Approved09/06/2023
754
Experian
$9,000
Approved09/08/2023
740
Equifax
$15,000
Denied09/05/2023
738
Experian
---
Denied09/05/2023
740
Equifax
---
Denied09/05/2023
750
TransUnion
---

Read our Review


Chase Freedom Flex(SM)

The Chase Freedom Flex(SM) also offers a great bonus for the required spend amount. The card offers up to 5% cash back and charges no annual fee. It offers 5% cash back rotating categories with spending caps, but it also offers elevated rewards on many other purchase categories.

Rewards:

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
1% cash back on all other purchases
3% cash back
Drugstores
3% cash back on drugstore purchases
3% cash back
Dining
3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
5% cash back
Rotating Categories
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate
5% cash back
Travel
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
  • Signup Bonus: Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • 0% Intro APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49%–29.24%
  • Annual Fee: $0
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/02/2023
741
TransUnion
$14,000
Approved04/02/2023
748
Experian
$14,000
Approved08/02/2023
800
Not Provided
$19,000
Approved10/24/2023
800
Not Provided
$8,600
Approved09/03/2023
795
Experian
$22,500
Approved09/03/2023
847
TransUnion
$22,500
Approved06/02/2023
789
TransUnion
$12,000
Approved06/02/2023
791
Experian
$12,000

Read our Review


The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express has an excellent welcome offer and some great travel perks.

The card also comes with a host of travel-related credits that offset the annual fee of the card.

Rewards:

1x points
On all other eligible purchases
1x on other purchases
5x points
Airfare
5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel, on up to $500,000 on these purchases each calendar year
5x points
Hotels
5x points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Annual Fee: $695

*Terms Apply

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/28/2023
812
Equifax
---
Approved04/28/2023
820
TransUnion
---
Approved04/28/2023
825
Experian
---
Approved08/16/2023
698
Equifax
$25,000
Approved08/16/2023
709
Experian
$25,000
Approved08/16/2023
728
TransUnion
$25,000
Approved01/04/2023
696
Not Provided
---
Approved01/23/2023
675
Not Provided
$6,000


Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card offers a generous welcome bonus, as well as decent points per purchase. It also comes with a list of credits worth about $550. As with all Bank of America cards, if you are a preferred member (i.e. you have at least $20,000 in an account with either Bank of America or Merrill) you earn better rewards. You also get priority pass airport lounge access for up to four guests.

Rewards:

1.5x points
On all other eligible purchases
Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases
2x points
Travel
Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel purchases
2x points
Dining
Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on dining purchases
  • Signup Bonus: Earn 75,000 online bonus points — a $750 value — after you make at least $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Annual Fee: $550
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved08/08/2023
813
Experian
$22,000
Approved08/08/2023
847
TransUnion
$22,000
Approved08/08/2023
850
Equifax
$22,000
Approved11/18/2023
787
Experian
$30,000
Approved12/26/2023
715
Experian
$15,000
Approved10/27/2023
761
TransUnion
$24,000
Approved10/27/2023
768
Experian
$24,000
Approved10/27/2023
777
Equifax
$24,000

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card—Editor’s Pick

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers one of the best welcome bonuses. If used to purchase travel through Chase, these points are worth 25% more. The card offers up to 5x points and a 25% bonus when points are redeemed for travel through Chase.

Rewards:

1x points
On all other eligible purchases
1x points on all other purchases
2x points
Travel
2x points on all other travel purchases
3x points
U.S. supermarkets
Earn 3x points on online groceries (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs)
3x points
Streaming services
Earn 3x points on select streaming services
3x points
Dining
3x points on dining
5x points
Travel
5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • Signup Bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Annual Fee: $95
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved08/03/2023
872
Not Provided
$19,500
Approved04/19/2023
737
Equifax
$16,000
Approved04/19/2023
747
Experian
$16,000
Approved04/19/2023
747
TransUnion
$16,000
Approved11/11/2023
800
Not Provided
$16,800
Approved04/18/2023
790
Experian
$17,300
Approved05/21/2023
703
Experian
$17,300
Approved04/04/2023
735
Equifax
$17,300
Approved04/04/2023
825
Experian
$17,300
Approved07/06/2023
735
Experian
$5,000
Approved07/06/2023
745
Equifax
$5,000
Approved07/06/2023
755
TransUnion
$5,000
Approved10/19/2023
720
Not Provided
$19,500
Approved06/14/2023
759
Experian
$6,000
Approved04/06/2023
897
Not Provided
$23,800
Approved04/14/2023
765
Experian
$7,200
Approved04/14/2023
777
Equifax
$7,200
Approved04/14/2023
777
TransUnion
$7,200
Approved10/23/2023
745
TransUnion
$5,000
Approved10/03/2023
761
Equifax
$18,000
Approved10/03/2023
767
Experian
$18,000
Approved10/03/2023
774
TransUnion
$18,000

Read our Review


Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers an excellent welcome bonus. If used to purchase travel through Chase, these points are worth $$900. The card offers up to 10x points and a 50% bonus when points are redeemed for travel through Chase.

Rewards:

1x points
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.
3x points
Dining
Earn 3x points on other travel and dining.
5x points
Travel
Earn 5x points on flights when you purchase travel through Chase Travel(SM) immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually.
10x points
Travel
10x on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel(SM) immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually.
  • Signup Bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • Annual Fee: $550
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/08/2023
720
Not Provided
$10,000
Approved05/08/2023
830
Experian
$27,000
Approved02/06/2023
677
Experian
$10,700
Approved04/19/2023
806
Experian
$18,600
Approved04/19/2023
810
Equifax
$18,600
Approved04/19/2023
823
TransUnion
$18,600
Approved08/03/2023
700
TransUnion
$15,000
Approved09/30/2023
698
Experian
$25,500
Approved09/30/2023
730
TransUnion
$25,500
Approved09/30/2023
733
Equifax
$25,500
Approved09/30/2023
766
Equifax
$25,500
Approved12/14/2023
750
Experian
$10,000
Approved03/22/2023
719
Equifax
$21,700
Approved03/22/2023
752
TransUnion
$21,700
Approved03/22/2023
789
Experian
$21,700
Approved01/07/2023
821
Experian
$25,000
Approved01/07/2023
828
TransUnion
$25,000
Approved01/07/2023
838
Equifax
$25,000
Approved10/23/2023
751
Experian
$10,000
Approved10/23/2023
785
TransUnion
$10,000
Denied10/19/2023
749
TransUnion
---
Denied10/19/2023
765
Experian
---

Read our Review


American Express® Gold Card

American Express® Gold Card offers a great welcome offer and excellent rewards on some everyday purchases like groceries and dining.

Welcome offer points could be worth as much as $600 depending on how they are redeemed.

Rewards:

1x points
On all other eligible purchases
1x points on all other eligible purchases
3x points
Airfare
3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com
4x points
U.S. supermarkets
4x points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 in purchases per year.
4x points
Dining
4x points at restaurants worldwide, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Annual Fee: $250

*Terms Apply

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved06/13/2023
699
TransUnion
$1,750
Approved02/03/2024
688
Equifax
---
Approved02/03/2024
690
Experian
---
Approved02/03/2024
731
TransUnion
---
Approved02/27/2023
700
Experian
---


IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card 

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is a great option if you’re partial to IHG-branded hotels such as Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, and Candlewood Suites. There’s a great welcome bonus, plus a lot of benefits and perks for those who frequent IHG hotels. You can also get an Anniversary Free Night at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Plus, enjoy a fourth reward night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG® hotel stay which more than justifies the annual fee.

Rewards:

3x points
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.
5x points
Travel
Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel.
5x points
Dining
Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on restaurants.
5x points
Gas
Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on gas stations.
26x points
Hotels
Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts.
  • Signup Bonus: Earn 165,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual Fee: $99
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved03/28/2023
819
Experian
$50,000
Approved03/02/2023
785
TransUnion
$10,000
Approved03/02/2023
791
Experian
$10,000
Approved01/30/2023
788
Experian
$21,000

Read our Review


Hilton Honors American Express Card 

Hilton Honors American Express Card is a great card for those who want a few benefits when they stay at a Hilton and don’t want to pay an annual fee. You won’t get a free night, but you do get complimentary Hilton HonorsTM Silver status with your Card, which comes with two free water bottles at check-in, 15% off spa services, and a fifth night free when you book a four-night reward stay with points. Not to mention the points you earn at gas stations, restaurants, and grocery stores.

Rewards:

3x points
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
5x points
U.S. supermarkets
Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. supermarkets.
5x points
Dining
Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants.
5x points
Gas
Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. gas stations.
7x points
Hotels
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
  • Signup Offer: Earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 4/17/24.
  • Annual Fee: $0

*Terms Apply

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved06/09/2022
728
TransUnion
$2,000
Approved03/05/2022
704
Experian
$15,000
Approved07/18/2022
704
Equifax
$5,000
Approved07/18/2022
713
Experian
$5,000
Approved06/09/2022
730
Equifax
$2,000
Approved07/18/2022
713
TransUnion
$5,000
Approved09/09/2023
679
Not Provided
$15,000


Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card is a solid choice if you enjoy staying at Marriott hotels, which encompass 31 brands in 8,500 properties around the world. There’s a welcome offer, and you’ll earn rewards on Marriott hotel stays, in restaurants, and in grocery stores.

Rewards:

2x points
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
4x points
U.S. supermarkets
Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
4x points
Dining
Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
6x points
Hotels
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 155,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Annual Fee: $250

*Terms Apply

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved10/16/2022
658
Equifax
$1,700
Approved10/16/2022
661
Equifax
$1,700
Approved10/16/2022
667
Experian
$1,700
Approved01/16/2023
644
Experian
$1,700
Approved07/29/2023
747
Experian
$5,000
Approved12/12/2022
717
Equifax
$5,000
Approved12/12/2022
720
Experian
$5,000
Approved12/12/2022
730
TransUnion
$5,000
Denied10/08/2022
700
Not Provided
---


Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card 

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is the premium Marriott card in the American Express lineup. It has a great welcome offer and generous ongoing rewards. You also get a $300 dining credit (up to $25 per month), a free night’s stay on your cardmember anniversary, and complimentary elite status, which earns you more points on hotel stays, upgraded rooms when available, and a welcome gift. The annual fee is high, so make sure you’ll make use of the rewards.

Rewards:

2x points
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
3x points
Airfare
Earn 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines.
3x points
Dining
Earn 3X points at restaurants worldwide.
6x points
Hotels
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
  • Welcome Offer:  Earn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Annual Fee: $650

*Terms Apply

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/25/2022
798
Experian
$10,000
Approved03/11/2022
610
Not Provided
$3,100
Approved07/26/2023
819
Experian
$25,000
Approved07/26/2023
831
Equifax
$25,000
Approved07/26/2023
831
TransUnion
$25,000
Approved10/24/2023
740
Not Provided
$35,000
Approved12/09/2022
775
Experian
$25,000
Approved12/19/2022
694
Experian
$4,400
Approved09/23/2022
720
Not Provided
$4,400


United℠ Explorer Card 

United℠ Explorer Card is a great card if you enjoy flying United Airlines. You get a nice welcome bonus, your first checked bag is free, and you get up to $100 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck or NEXUS fee credit every four years. The annual fee is waived for the first year.

Rewards:

1x points
On all other eligible purchases
1x per dollar spent on all other purchases
2x miles
Airfare
2x points on United purchases, including tickets, Economy Plus, and inflight purchases
2x points
Hotels
2x points per dollar spent on hotel accommodations
2x points
Dining
2x miles per dollar spent on dining, including eligible delivery services
  • Signup Bonus: Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
  • Annual Fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/11/2023
767
Not Provided
$13,700
Approved02/03/2023
819
Experian
$5,000
Approved06/28/2023
735
Experian
$7,200
Approved06/28/2023
745
Equifax
$7,200
Approved06/28/2023
755
TransUnion
$7,200
Denied05/18/2023
770
Not Provided
---

Read our Review


Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card is offering a special bonus right now: Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. The way it works is once you spend the required amount, you’ll get a promo code in your Southwest account. It’s good for 30% off a single-use one-way or round-trip ticket on Southwest. All three personal Southwest credit cards come with this bonus, but the Plus has the lowest annual fee.

Rewards:

1x points
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
2x points
Hotels
Earn 2x on Rapid Rewards hotel partners.
2x points
Rental Cars
Earn 2x on Rapid Rewards car rental partners.
2x points
Southwest Purchases
Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
2x points
Streaming services
Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
2x points
Transit
Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
  • Signup Bonus: Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual Fee: $69
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved02/11/2022
715
Not Provided
$20,000
Approved08/06/2022
680
Experian
$9,600
Approved05/22/2022
802
Experian
$12,800
Approved02/24/2022
760
Equifax
$10,700

Read our Review


Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card 

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is a good choice if you regularly fly Delta Airlines. The welcome offer alone is worth a few hundred dollars, but it might be worth more, depending on the flight.  Your first checked bag is free, and the annual fee is waived for the first year.

Rewards:

1x miles
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
2x miles
U.S. supermarkets
Earn 2X Miles at U.S. Supermarkets.
2x miles
Delta Purchases
Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases.
2x miles
Dining
Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
  • Annual Fee: $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.

*Terms Apply

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved09/20/2023
702
Experian
$10,000
Approved12/09/2023
678
TransUnion
$10,000
Approved12/09/2023
695
Experian
$10,000
Approved12/09/2023
698
Equifax
$10,000


Wells Fargo AutographSM Card

The Wells Fargo AutographSM Card offers 3x points on six different categories including everyday purchases like dining and gas. It’s also a great card to get if you plan to make a major purchase as it offers 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases.

Rewards:

1x points
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 1x points on other purchases
3x points
Cell phone service
3x on cell phone and landline providers
3x points
Streaming services
3x on popular streaming services
3x points
Travel
3x on airfare, hotels, cruises, and car rentals
3x points
Dining
3x on restaurants, dining in, take out, delivery, catering and more
3x points
Gas
3x at gas stations and electric charging stations
3x points
Transit
3x on subways, ride shares, parking, tolls and more
  • Signup Bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value.
  • 0% Intro APR: 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases
  • Annual Fee: $0
App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved10/17/2023
825
Equifax
$30,000
Approved04/03/2023
748
TransUnion
$15,000
Approved04/03/2023
754
Equifax
$15,000
Approved04/03/2023
767
Experian
$15,000
Approved04/22/2023
695
Experian
$2,500
Approved06/17/2023
768
TransUnion
$30,000
Approved11/19/2023
741
Experian
$14,000
Approved11/19/2023
743
Equifax
$14,000
Approved11/19/2023
746
TransUnion
$14,000
Approved10/27/2023
765
TransUnion
$16,000
Approved10/27/2023
786
Equifax
$16,000
Approved10/27/2023
788
Experian
$16,000


Complete List of Credit Card Signup Bonuses

Listed below are all of the credit cards in our database that offer a signup or welcome bonus. Click on the card name for more details.

1-50 of 235 results
Issuer
Card Type
  • Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card

    Bank of America® Travel Rewards Card

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    25000 points
    Rewards

    1.5 points

    Get Details

  • Capital One Venture X Business

    Capital One Venture X Business

    Annual Fee

    $395

    Welcome Offer
    150,000 Miles
    Rewards

    2x – 10x miles

    Get Details

  • Bank of America Premium Rewards Card

    Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $95

    Welcome Offer
    60,000 Points
    Rewards

    1.5X – 2X Points

    Get Details

  • World of Hyatt Business Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $199

    Welcome Offer
    60,000 Bonus Points
    Rewards

    1x – 9x points

    Get Details

  • U.S. Bank Business Altitude Connect

    U.S. Bank Business Altitude Connect World Elite Mastercard®

    Annual Fee

    $0 for the first year, $95 per year thereafter

    Welcome Offer
    60,000 points
    Rewards

    1x to 5x points

    Get Details

  • Capital One Spark Miles

    Capital One Spark Miles Select for Business

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    50,000 Miles
    Rewards

    1.5x to 5x miles

    Get Details

  • U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature

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

    Annual Fee

    $0 intro annual fee for the first year, $95/year thereafter.

    Welcome Offer
    50,000 bonus points
    Rewards

    1x – 5x

    Get Details

  • PenFed Pathfinder

    PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card

    Annual Fee

    $95 Waived for existing Honors Advantage Members

    Welcome Offer
    50,000 Bonus Points
    Rewards

    1.5x to 4x points

    Get Details

  • U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve

    U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card

    Annual Fee

    $400

    Welcome Offer
    50,000 bonus points
    Rewards

    1x to 5x points

    Get Details

  • Alaska Airlines Business Credit Card

    Alaska Airlines Business Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $70 per company, $25 per card

    Welcome Offer
    50,000 bonus miles
    Rewards

    1x to 3x miles

    Get Details

  • Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    20,000 Miles
    Rewards

    1.25x miles to 5x miles

    Get Details

  • U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    20,000 bonus points
    Rewards

    1x – 4x points

    Get Details

  • Truist Business Travel Rewards

    Truist Business Travel Rewards Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $0 Introductory Annual fee for the first year, $49 after that

    Welcome Offer
    20,000 bonus miles
    Rewards

    1x to 2x miles

    Get Details

  • PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature® Card

    Annual Fee

    No Annual Fee

    Welcome Offer
    15,000 Bonus Points
    Rewards

    1x to 5x points

    Get Details

  • Amex EveryDay® Preferred Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $95

    Welcome Offer
    15,000 Membership Rewards® Points
    Rewards

    1x to 3x points

    Get Details

  • American Express Everyday

    Amex EveryDay® Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    10,000 Membership Rewards® Points
    Rewards

    1x to 2x points

    Get Details

  • Capital One Walmart Rewards Card

    Capital One Walmart Rewards® Card

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    5%
    Rewards

    1% – 5% cash back

    Get Details

  • Chase Freedom Unlimited

    Chase Freedom Unlimited®

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year)
    Rewards

    1.5% – 5%

    Get Details

  • Capital One QuicksilverOne

    Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $39

    Welcome Offer
    Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back
    Rewards

    1.5%

    Get Details

  • Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

    Capital One Savor Rewards Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $95

    Welcome Offer
    $300 cash bonus
    Rewards

    1% – 5%

    Get Details

  • marriott bonvoy

    Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $95

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 3 Free Night Awards
    Rewards

    2x to 6x points

    Get Details

  • British Airways Visa Signature

    British Airways Visa Signature® Card

    Annual Fee

    $95

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 75,000 Avios
    Rewards

    1x – 3x Avios

    Get Details

  • Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $99

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 50,000 bonus points
    Rewards

    2x – 3x Points

    Get Details

  • Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

    Annual Fee

    $150

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 155,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points
    Rewards

    3x to 12x points

    Get Details

  • Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $99

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 60,000 points
    Rewards

    1x to 3x points

    Get Details

  • Chase Ink Business Preferred

    Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $95

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 100,000 bonus points
    Rewards

    1-3x points

    Get Details

  • Chase Ink Business Cash

    Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    Earn $350 when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400
    Rewards

    1%-5%

    Get Details

  • Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

    The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

    Annual Fee

    $95

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points
    Rewards

    3x to 12x points

    Get Details

  • Hilton Honors American Express Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Card

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points
    Rewards

    3x to 7x points

    Get Details

  • IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

    IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $99

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 165,000 Bonus Points
    Rewards

    3x to 26x points

    Get Details

  • American Express Blue Cash Preferred

    Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

    Annual Fee

    $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

    Welcome Offer
    Earn a $250 statement credit
    Rewards

    1%-6%

    Get Details

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred

    Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

    Annual Fee

    $95

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 60,000 bonus points
    Rewards

    1x – 5x points

    Get Details

  • Amex Gold Card

    American Express® Gold Card

    Annual Fee

    $250

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points
    Rewards

    1x-4x

    Get Details

  • American Express Business Plum Card

    The Plum Card® from American Express

    Annual Fee

    $250‡

    Welcome Offer
    Paying early pays off: get an unlimited 1.5% Early Pay Discount on eligible charges within 10 days of your statement closing date and see the discount applied to your next statement when you pay at the least the Minimum Payment Due by the Please Pay By date.
    Rewards

    0 – 1.5%

    Get Details

  • Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    Earn a $200 statement credit
    Rewards

    1%-3%

    Get Details

  • Amex Platinum Card

    The Platinum Card® from American Express

    Annual Fee

    $695

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points
    Rewards

    1x – 5x points

    Get Details

  • Delta Skymiles Blue American Express Card

    Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 10,000 bonus miles
    Rewards

    1x – 2x Miles

    Get Details

  • Delta Skymiles Gold American Express Card

    Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

    Annual Fee

    $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles
    Rewards

    1x to 2x miles

    Get Details

  • Capital One Quicksilver

    Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    One-time $200 cash bonus
    Rewards

    1.5%

    Get Details

  • Capital One Venture

    Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $95

    Welcome Offer
    Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 Miles
    Rewards

    2x – 5x miles

    Get Details

  • Amex Cash Magnet

    American Express Cash Magnet® Card

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    $200
    Rewards

    1.5%

    Get Details

  • Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $149

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 50,000 bonus points
    Rewards

    2 to 3 points

    Get Details

  • The Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express

    The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

    Annual Fee

    No annual fee

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points
    Rewards

    1x – 2x

    Get Details

  • SavorOne Student

    Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    $200 Cash Back
    Rewards

    1% -10%

    Get Details

  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card

    Annual Fee

    $650

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 110,000 Bonus Miles
    Rewards

    1X to 3X Miles

    Get Details

  • Chase Ink Business Unlimited

    Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    Earn $750 bonus cash back
    Rewards

    1.5%

    Get Details

  • Capital One Spark Miles

    Capital One Spark Miles for Business

    Annual Fee

    $0 intro for first year; $95 after that

    Welcome Offer
    Earn a one-time bonus of 50,000 miles – equal to $500 in travel
    Rewards

    2x to 5x miles

    Get Details

  • Capital One Spark Cash Select

    Capital One Spark Cash Select for Excellent Credit

    Annual Fee

    $0

    Welcome Offer
    $750 Cash Back
    Rewards

    1.5% – 5%

    Get Details

  • American Express Business Gold Card

    American Express® Business Gold Card

    Annual Fee

    $375

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points
    Rewards

    1x – 4x points

    Get Details

  • Delta Skymiles Platinum American Express Card

    Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

    Annual Fee

    $350

    Welcome Offer
    Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles
    Rewards

    1x – 3x miles

    Get Details

How to Pick The Best Credit Card Signup Offers

Credit card signup bonuses seem to get bigger each year. The top offers today can be worth $1,000 or more. As you review your options, keep several things in mind.

A signup bonus is just one factor to consider: The signup bonus, while certainly a nice perk, is only one factor to consider when comparing the cards. Other important factors include the annual fee, how you’ll earn ongoing rewards, and how you’ll redeem the rewards you earn.

A good credit score is required: Credit cards with rich signup promotions require good to excellent credit. If your credit falls below certain criteria, you may not get the bonus offer being promoted – or any of the other perks. While there’s no set rule on the credit score needed to qualify for one of these cards, one should generally aim for a FICO score of 700 or higher.

Consider the spending requirement: Most signup bonuses require new card members to charge a certain amount of purchases to the card within a specified period to qualify for the bonus. While the amounts vary, it’s generally between $500 to $3,000 within 3 months. Further, the bigger the bonus the higher the spend requirement. You’ll have to be careful that you aren’t persuaded by the spending requirements to buy items that you wouldn’t normally buy to meet the restriction. This can be a problem if you don’t normally shop with a credit card.

The value can depend on how you redeem the bonus: For those cards that pay the bonus in points or miles, the value can vary depending on how you redeem the rewards. In many cases, the rewards must be redeemed for travel through the credit card issuer.

Most cards offer other benefits: Virtually every card on this list offers significant benefits beyond bonus points or miles. Travel rewards, in particular, can be generous, depending on your typical spending patterns. Many of the cards also offer a zero-interest transfer deal that can run anywhere from 12 to 18 months.

APRs are high – A zero interest rate period is certainly attractive, but it will come to an end eventually. When it does, there are interest rates ranging from the low teens to the low 20s awaiting you.

How Do Rewards Credit Cards Work?

Credit card rewards are tied to how much you spend using a credit card. The more you spend, the more rewards you’ll earn.

Sign-up bonuses usually have a limit. A card may provide a $500 sign-up bonus after you spend, say, $3,000 within three months of opening the card account. Once you reach that spending limit, no more signup bonus rewards will be issued.

But with cash back rewards and points, you’ll continue to earn those rewards once you’ve met the criteria for the sign-up bonus (or even if you don’t). Some cards offer a flat rewards structure based on either all purchase activity or only in certain categories. Others may offer a tiered structure, where they’ll pay more rewards for certain purchase categories than for others.

You should also be aware that sign-up bonuses and rewards apply only to purchases. They don’t apply to balance transfers, cash advances, traveler’s checks, and certain other restricted transactions.

What Can I Do With Credit Card Rewards?

It all depends on how the rewards are structured with the issuing card. You’ll typically be able to redeem your rewards as a statement credit (applied to your outstanding balance) or applied toward certain purchases, like travel.

But some reward arrangements also allow you to receive cash. For example, if you accumulate $50 in cash back rewards, you can opt to have the funds transferred to a linked bank account, or even have a check mailed to your home.

Is Cash Back Better Than Rewards Points?

In most cases, cash back and reward points work out to be about the same. That’s because both are based on percentages. The main difference is that cash back is usually expressed as a percentage, like 2% of purchases, while points are based on earning a certain number for every dollar spent.

However, this is actually another type of percentage rewards basis. If you earn two points for every dollar spent, that’s the equivalent of 2% rewards. You can often redeem reward points in much the same way you can cash back.

How Do I Know if a Rewards Card Will Be the Right Choice for Me?

The major factor to be aware of is your spending level. Or more specifically, how much of your spending activity is done using credit cards.

Whether you spend a lot or a little using credit cards, rewards will still work in your favor. But the more you spend, the more you’ll earn.

For example, if you have a rewards card offering 2% cash back (or points), and you spend $10,000 during the year, you’ll earn $200 in rewards. But if you spend $100,000, you can earn $2,000.

How Can I Maximize the Benefit of Credit Card Sign-up Bonuses and Rewards?

First, plan to pay off your entire credit card balance every month, and in full. That’ll avoid interest charges, making your bonuses and rewards a pure positive return.

Second, be sure to match rewards tiers with your spending. If one credit card offers 2% rewards across the board, and another offers 5% cash back for groceries, the second card should be used for all grocery purchases.

Third, make sure the sign-up bonus and rewards will easily exceed the annual fee. For example, if the card charges a $95 annual fee, you’ll need to spend at least $4,750 per year just to recover the cost of the annual fee.

If you don’t think you’ll be able to exceed that spending threshold, you’ll be better off choosing a card with a big sign-on bonus, a 0% introductory APR, or some other benefit that will offset the cost of the annual fee.

FAQs

What is the best credit card signup bonus?

Arguably the best credit card signup bonus today is with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.

Do all credit cards offer signup bonuses?

No. It’s a common marketing strategy with a lot of credit cards, but many do not offer bonuses.

Is a welcome bonus different than a signup bonus?

No, but some credit card issuers refer to their bonus as a “welcome bonus” and others refer to it as a “signup bonus.”

Are signup bonuses worth it?

They can be if they are part of a larger credit card rewards plan. Be careful, however. Credit cards can prompt consumers to spend more money than they should, as one MIT study found.

The Bottom Line

One of the beautiful things about competition, especially when businesses vie for consumers is that everybody wins. Businesses end up getting what they want (which they may end up paying more for) and consumers can shop around for the best good or service that suits their needs. No one entity controls the market and in the end, the best business will usually prevail.

When looking at the full list of credit card deals above, it’s easy to see just how profitable a few applications can be. All you need is the excellent credit these cards require, and you can walk away with thousands of dollars in savings.