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If you're a frequent grocery shopper or driver, using the right credit card can help you save money on everyday expenses. The Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express offers 6% cash back on groceries, with no rotating categories or spending limits.
One of the benefits of this card is that it doesn't charge an annual fee for the first year, making it a great option for those who want to try it out.
Best Credit Cards for Groceries and Gas
If you're looking to maximize your rewards while grocery shopping, using a credit card with a grocery store that's eligible to earn rewards is key.
To maximize your rewards, redeem them in the most lucrative way, which is generally as statement credits or depositing them into your bank account.
The best credit cards for groceries and gas are those that offer rewards that can be redeemed for groceries and gas, such as statement credits or deposits into your bank account.
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For example, some credit cards offer 3-5% cash back on gas purchases, making them a great option for frequent drivers.
Using a credit card with a grocery store that's eligible to earn rewards can help you earn more rewards, but you have to redeem them in the most lucrative way to get the most out of it.
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Top Picks
If you're looking for the best credit cards for groceries and gas, here are some top picks to consider.
The Chase Freedom Unlimited card is a great option for earning rewards on groceries and gas purchases.
You can earn 3% cash back on all your purchases in your first year up to $20,000 spent, and 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
The Citi Double Cash Card is another excellent choice for earning rewards on groceries and gas.
You can earn 2% cash back on all your purchases, with no rotating categories or spending limits.
To maximize your rewards, use your card with a grocery store that's eligible to earn rewards and then redeem them in the most lucrative way.
The best way to redeem rewards is generally as statement credits or depositing them into your bank account.
Choosing the Right Card
Look for credit cards offering elevated cash back or points specifically for grocery purchases. Some cards provide higher percentages or bonus categories for supermarket spending.
Consider cards with no or low annual fees to maximize your net gains. Evaluate whether the benefits outweigh the costs, especially if you're a moderate spender.
Assess the type of rewards that align with your financial goals, considering points, cash back, or specific hotel loyalty points. Find where you shop the most; a general-purpose credit card suits diverse grocery stores, while co-branded or flat-rate rewards cards may be better for specific retailers.
Here are some key factors to consider:
Explore extra perks such as extended warranties, purchase protection, or even travel benefits if they align with your lifestyle and needs.
Pros and Cons
The best credit cards for groceries and gas offer some amazing benefits, but as with anything, there are pros and cons to consider.
Rewards can be earned on every purchase, not just groceries and gas, with some cards offering 3-4% cash back on all purchases.
However, some cards come with annual fees that can range from $75 to $450, which may not be worth it for everyone.
If you're someone who only uses your credit card for groceries and gas, a card with a lower rewards rate may be a better option to avoid overspending.
Pros
Earning rewards on grocery purchases can help offset inflation costs, providing a practical means of saving on everyday expenses.
Some credit cards offer elevated rewards, allowing you to earn higher cash back or points on your grocery purchases.
Additional benefits like generous sign-up bonuses, extended warranty, and purchase protections are also available on some cards.
Introductory APR offers, which allow interest-free payments on purchases and balance transfers for a specified period, typically 12 to 15 months, can be found on some gas credit cards.
Many credit cards rewarding grocery spending also extend rewards to other common expenses like gas, travel, and dining out, enhancing the overall experience.
Related reading: Credit Cards Grocery Rewards
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Here are some of the cost-saving features you can expect:
- Cost-Saving Features: Earning rewards on grocery purchases to offset inflation costs
- Elevated Rewards: Higher cash back or points on grocery purchases
- Additional Benefits: Generous sign-up bonuses, extended warranty, and purchase protections
- Intro APR Offer: Interest-free payments on purchases and balance transfers for a specified period
- Versatile Rewards: Rewards extended to other common expenses like gas, travel, and dining out
Cons
Some credit cards with high grocery rewards come with annual fees, which can be a drawback for those on a tight budget.
Managing multiple cards with different rewards categories, spending caps, or rules can be overwhelming for some users, making it difficult to keep track of their finances.
Annual fees can range from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the card and its benefits.
To avoid complexity, it's essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of each card before applying.
Here are some common cons to consider:
- Annual fees: A fee charged by the card issuer each year.
- Complexity: Managing multiple cards with different rules and rewards.
Grocery Shopping and Credit
Buying groceries with a credit card can positively impact your credit score if you manage your card responsibly, with regular, on-time payments and low credit utilization rates contributing to a healthy credit history.
Consistently using your credit card for grocery shopping and paying the balance in full each month demonstrates responsible credit behavior, which can improve your credit score over time.
Carrying a high balance or missing payments can harm your credit, so it's essential to pay your credit card balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
Using a credit card for groceries can also be a smart financial move if done responsibly, as you can earn rewards, cash back, or other benefits offered by your credit card issuer.
For example, if you have a credit card that provides 2% cash back on grocery purchases and you spend $500 per month on groceries, you could earn $120 in cash back over the year.
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Using Credit Card for Groceries
Using a credit card for groceries can be a smart financial move if done responsibly. By leveraging a credit card for groceries, you can earn rewards, cash back, or other benefits offered by your credit card issuer.
The key is selecting the right card for extended perks, bonuses, or rewards—specially tailored for supermarket expenses. The best grocery credit cards deliver significant grocery savings.
For example, if you have a credit card that provides 2% cash back on grocery purchases and you spend $500 per month on groceries, you could earn $120 in cash back over the year. However, it’s crucial to pay your credit card balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
To maximize your credit card rewards while grocery shopping, use your card with a grocery store that's eligible to earn rewards and then redeem them in the most lucrative way. The best way to redeem grocery rewards is generally as statement credits or depositing them into your bank account.
Some popular online grocery stores that work well with credit cards include Instacart, Amazon Fresh, and Walmart Grocery. These platforms often offer a seamless checkout process and secure transactions.
Does Grocery Shopping Build Credit?
Buying groceries with a credit card can positively impact your credit score if you manage your card responsibly.
Regular, on-time payments are crucial for a healthy credit history. Missing payments can harm your credit.
Carrying a high balance on your credit card can also harm your credit. Consistently paying the balance in full each month demonstrates responsible credit behavior.
Over time, this responsible credit usage can improve your credit score, making it easier to qualify for favorable loan terms and other financial opportunities.
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Online Grocery Shopping
Online grocery shopping is a convenient way to save time and earn rewards on your grocery purchases. Many credit cards offer sign-up bonuses for making a certain amount of purchases within a specific timeframe, such as $500 in purchases within 3 months.
Some credit cards also offer cash back or rewards on online grocery shopping, like 4% cash back on dining and takeout, including grocery store purchases made through a food delivery app.
Using a credit card for online grocery shopping can also provide additional protections, such as purchase protection and return protection, in case something goes wrong with your order.
Many online grocery shopping platforms, such as Instacart and Shipt, offer same-day delivery or in-store pickup, allowing you to get your groceries quickly and easily.
Expand your knowledge: Best Credit Cards for Shopping
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it good to buy groceries with a credit card?
Yes, using a credit card with elevated rewards at the supermarket can save you hundreds of dollars a year on your grocery bill. Consider switching to a rewards credit card if you spend a significant amount on groceries each week.
Sources
- https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2024/06/10/charging-gas-and-groceries-these-credit-cards-offer-cash-back/
- https://www.fox26houston.com/news/credit-cards-that-can-save-you-money-on-groceries-gas
- https://www.uthrive.club/best-credit-cards-groceries
- https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/credit-cards/best/best-credit-cards-for-groceries/
- https://ficoforums.myfico.com/t5/Credit-Cards/What-card-is-the-best-for-groceries-and-gas-Also-Cap-One-Savor/td-p/5564947
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