Best cash back credit cards in Canada
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Top cash back credit cards in Canada
Using a cash back credit card is like finding money in your pocket every time you shop. Here's our top 3 list of the best cash back credit cards in Canada followed by more great cash back options.
How do you find the best cash back credit card in Canada for your needs? We've done the research to help you choose the right card based on your spending habits—so you can earn the most money back on every purchase. In total, we analyzed 28 credit card programs, considered more than 135 features, reviewed over 200 cards and sifted through approximately 27,000 data points to identify the best options available.
Cash back is one of the most popular credit card rewards—and for good reason. It’s flexible, easy to use, and puts money right back in your pocket with no restrictions. Below is our full list of the best cash back cards, plus details on each. For top picks across all categories. To see the top cards from all categories, check out our best credit cards Canada list.
🏅 Gold: BMO CashBack® World Elite®* Mastercard®*
up to 10% cash back†
Welcome Bonus
$1,025
First Year Value
$570
Annual Value
Welcome Bonus: Get up to $335 in additional cash back including 10% cash back in your first 3 months.† Plus, the $120 annual fee is waived in the first year.† Expires Jan 31, 2026
Get this card if you...
- are a high-earner looking to earn cash back
- want great perks like travel insurance and concierge services
- value a great welcome offer
Annual Fee & Annual Interest Rates
$120
Annual Fee
21.99%
Purchase
23.99%
Cash Advance
23.99%
Balance Transfer
Our Take
The BMO CashBack® World Elite®* Mastercard®* is a premium credit card offering elevated cash back rates on categories such as groceries, transit, gas, and recurring bill payments. Cardholders benefit from complimentary roadside assistance, comprehensive insurance coverage, and flexible cash back redemption options, so you can maximize your rewards on everyday spending.
Eligibility
Excellent (740+)
Recommended Credit Score
$80,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
Pros
- Valuable sign-up bonus
- High 5% cash back rate on groceries
- Free roadside assistance
- Excellent extended warranty and purchase protection terms
Cons
- Restrictive spending limits for most cash back categories
- Sign-up bonus structure is head-scratchingly complicated
- High minimum income requirements
Annual Interest Rates
21.99%
Purchase
23.99%
Cash Advance
23.99%
Balance Transfer
Fees
$120
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
Rewards cash back
5%
Groceries: 5% cash back up to $500 spent per month ($25 in cash back)*
4%
Transit: 4% cash back up to $300 spent per month ($12 in cash back)*
3%
Gas: 3% cash back up to $300 spent per month ($9 in cash back)*
2%
Recurring Bills: 2% cash back up to $500 spent per month ($10 in cash back)*
1%
Everything Else: 1% cash back, unlimited*
Insurance Benefits
$2,000,000
Emergency medical insurance amount
$500,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
Get up to $335 in additional cash back including 10% cash back in your first 3 months.† Plus, the $120 annual fee is waived in the first year.†
†Terms and Conditions apply,
Our Take
The BMO CashBack® World Elite®* Mastercard®* is a premium credit card offering elevated cash back rates on categories such as groceries, transit, gas, and recurring bill payments. Cardholders benefit from complimentary roadside assistance, comprehensive insurance coverage, and flexible cash back redemption options, so you can maximize your rewards on everyday spending.
Eligibility
Excellent (740+)
Recommended Credit Score
$80,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
Pros
- Valuable sign-up bonus
- High 5% cash back rate on groceries
- Free roadside assistance
- Excellent extended warranty and purchase protection terms
Cons
- Restrictive spending limits for most cash back categories
- Sign-up bonus structure is head-scratchingly complicated
- High minimum income requirements
Annual Interest Rates
21.99%
Purchase
23.99%
Cash Advance
23.99%
Balance Transfer
Fees
$120
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
Rewards cash back
5%
Groceries: 5% cash back up to $500 spent per month ($25 in cash back)*
4%
Transit: 4% cash back up to $300 spent per month ($12 in cash back)*
3%
Gas: 3% cash back up to $300 spent per month ($9 in cash back)*
2%
Recurring Bills: 2% cash back up to $500 spent per month ($10 in cash back)*
1%
Everything Else: 1% cash back, unlimited*
Insurance Benefits
$2,000,000
Emergency medical insurance amount
$500,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
Get up to $335 in additional cash back including 10% cash back in your first 3 months.† Plus, the $120 annual fee is waived in the first year.†
†Terms and Conditions apply,
The BMO CashBack® World Elite®* Mastercard®* has proven to be a perennial powerhouse in our Credit Card Awards — and this year is no different. This cash back juggernaut has claimed the top spot in our 2025 rankings, moving up from last year’s runner-up position:
- Impressive welcome offer: Get up to $335 in additional cash back including 10% cash back in your first 3 months.† Plus, the $120 annual fee is waived in the first year.†
- Category-leading earn rates: Earn 5% cash back on groceries, making it our winner in the grocery category for 2025
- Versatile rewards structure: Earn 4% on transit, 3% on gas, 2% on recurring bills, and 1% on everything else
- Mastercard advantage: With a Grocery Saturation Score of 0.92 in our analysis, this card is accepted at more grocery retailers than its Visa competitors.
- Annual fee: $120 (first year waived), offering excellent value when compared to the potential cash back earnings
- Additional perks: Complimentary roadside assistance, travel insurance, and mobile device protection round out an impressive package
Disclosures:
- *Terms and conditions apply.
-
BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information.
🥈 Silver: SimplyCash® Preferred Card from American Express
bonus 10% cash back
Welcome Bonus
$742
First Year Value
$492
Annual Value
Welcome Bonus: Earn a bonus 10% cash back on purchases in your first 3 months (up to $2,000 in purchases).
Get this card if you...
- want to earn cash back faster
- need comprehensive insurance benefits
- want a generous welcome offer to maximize rewards
Annual Fee & Annual Interest Rates
$119.88
Annual Fee
21.99%
Purchase
21.99%
Cash Advance
Our Take
The SimplyCash® Preferred Card from American Express is a cash back credit card offering elevated earn rates on eligible gas and grocery purchases in Canada, with a standard rate on all other purchases. Cardholders benefit from a welcome bonus, as well as additional perks such as rental car insurance and travel accident coverage; however, the card carries a monthly fee, and cash back is redeemed annually each September.
Eligibility
Excellent (740+)
Recommended Credit Score
Pros
- Competitive cash back rates: Up to 4% on gas and groceries, and more
- Refer-a-friend bonus up to $750 annually
- Extra benefits like rental car insurance and travel accident coverage
- Manufacturer's warranty doubled on purchases
Cons
- $9.99/month fee ($119.88 annually)
- Cash back redeemed annually in September
- Not all benefits may be relevant to all users
- Limited to American Express acceptance
Annual Interest Rates
21.99%
Purchase
21.99%
Cash Advance
28.99%
Penalty
Fees
$119.88
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
$29
Over The Limit Penalty
Rewards cash back
4%
cash back on eligible gas station purchases in Canada
4%
cash back on eligible grocery store purchases in Canada (up to $1,200 cash back annually)
2%
cash back on all other purchases
Insurance Benefits
$1,000
Mobile device insurance amount
$5,000,000
Emergency medical insurance amount
$100,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$500
Hotel burglary insurance
$85,000
Rental car insurance amount
Earn a bonus 10% cash back on purchases in your first 3 months (up to $2,000 in purchases). That’s on top of your everyday cash back earn rates.
Plus, earn a $50 statement credit* when you make a purchase in month 13.*
This could add up to $250 in bonus value in your first 13 months.
*Current or former Cardmembers with this Card are not eligible for this offer. Other terms apply.
Our Take
The SimplyCash® Preferred Card from American Express is a cash back credit card offering elevated earn rates on eligible gas and grocery purchases in Canada, with a standard rate on all other purchases. Cardholders benefit from a welcome bonus, as well as additional perks such as rental car insurance and travel accident coverage; however, the card carries a monthly fee, and cash back is redeemed annually each September.
Eligibility
Excellent (740+)
Recommended Credit Score
Pros
- Competitive cash back rates: Up to 4% on gas and groceries, and more
- Refer-a-friend bonus up to $750 annually
- Extra benefits like rental car insurance and travel accident coverage
- Manufacturer's warranty doubled on purchases
Cons
- $9.99/month fee ($119.88 annually)
- Cash back redeemed annually in September
- Not all benefits may be relevant to all users
- Limited to American Express acceptance
Annual Interest Rates
21.99%
Purchase
21.99%
Cash Advance
28.99%
Penalty
Fees
$119.88
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
$29
Over The Limit Penalty
Rewards cash back
4%
cash back on eligible gas station purchases in Canada
4%
cash back on eligible grocery store purchases in Canada (up to $1,200 cash back annually)
2%
cash back on all other purchases
Insurance Benefits
$1,000
Mobile device insurance amount
$5,000,000
Emergency medical insurance amount
$100,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$500
Hotel burglary insurance
$85,000
Rental car insurance amount
Earn a bonus 10% cash back on purchases in your first 3 months (up to $2,000 in purchases). That’s on top of your everyday cash back earn rates.
Plus, earn a $50 statement credit* when you make a purchase in month 13.*
This could add up to $250 in bonus value in your first 13 months.
*Current or former Cardmembers with this Card are not eligible for this offer. Other terms apply.
Another popular option that just missed out n our top spot is the SimplyCash® Preferred Card from American Express. The card is ideal for those who prefer a different payment structure and offers strong returns on everyday purchases:
- Alternative fee structure: $9.99 monthly fee instead of a large annual payment, making it more accessible for budget-conscious Canadians
- Generous welcome bonus: Earn a bonus 10% cash back on purchases in your first 3 months (up to $2,000 in purchases).
- Strong everyday earnings: Earn 4% cash back on gas and groceries (note that grocery rewards are capped at $$1,200 cash back annual spending)
- Simplified earnings on other purchases: Earn 2% cash back on all other eligible purchases with no category restrictions
- American Express benefits: Access to Amex Offers, entertainment pre-sales, and fraud protection services
- No redemption minimums: Cash back is automatically credited to your account, unlike some competitors that require minimum redemption thresholds
Disclosures:
-
Contact American Express for the most up-to-date referral bonus figures.
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
🥉 Bronze: Scotiabank Momentum® Visa Infinite*
10% cash back
Welcome Bonus
$914
First Year Value
$594
Annual Value
Welcome Bonus: Earn 10% cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months (up to $2,000 in total purchases). Plus, no annual fee in the first year, including on additional cards. Expires Oct 31, 2025
Get this card if you...
- want high cash back rates
- value a great welcome offer
- want comprehensive insurance benefits
Annual Fee & Annual Interest Rates
$120
Annual Fee
20.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Our Take
The Scotiabank Momentum® Visa Infinite* Card is a cash back credit card offering elevated earn rates on purchases in categories such as groceries, recurring bill payments, gas, and daily transit. Cardholders benefit from a competitive welcome bonus, comprehensive insurance coverage, and the potential to have the annual fee waived by bundling the card with certain Scotiabank chequing accounts.
Eligibility
Excellent (740+)
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Pros
- High earn rate on everyday spending categories
- Comprehensive travel and purchase insurance
- Visa Infinite perks such as concierge, events, and special offers
- 25% Car rental discounts at Avis and Budget
- Mobile device insurance
- Up to $200 welcome bonus
Cons
- Income requirements are higher: $60k personal or 100k household
- Cash back can only be redeemed once a year
Annual Interest Rates
20.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Fees
$120
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
$5
Cash Advance
$29
Over The Limit Penalty
Rewards cash back
4%
For every $1 you spend on grocery store purchases, recurring bill payments and subscription purchases
2%
For every $1 you spend on gas and daily transit purchases
1%
Cash back on all other purchases with no cash back limit
Insurance Benefits
$1,000
Mobile device insurance amount
$500,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
Earn 10% cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months (up to $2,000 in total purchases). Plus, no annual fee in the first year, including on additional cards.
To qualify for these offers make sure to open a new Scotiabank Momentum® Visa Infinite* credit card account by October 31, 2025.
To earn 10% cash back, make sure to use your new card to make everyday eligible purchases and earn 10% cash back on the first $2,000 you spend in your first 3 months from account opening.
Once you qualify, we’ll credit your account in 2 instalments:
Bonus Cash Back: The amount earned under the Cash Back Bonus Rate will be credited to your Account within approximately 7 months from the account open date; and
Regular Cash Back: The amount earned under your regular Cash Back Program Rate will be credited to your Account according to the regular cash back payment schedule as set out under the Program (i.e., November).
Individuals who are currently or were previously primary or secondary cardholders of a Scotiabank personal credit card in the past 2 years, including those that switch from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card, as well as employees of Scotiabank, are not eligible for these offers.
See terms and conditions for full details.
Our Take
The Scotiabank Momentum® Visa Infinite* Card is a cash back credit card offering elevated earn rates on purchases in categories such as groceries, recurring bill payments, gas, and daily transit. Cardholders benefit from a competitive welcome bonus, comprehensive insurance coverage, and the potential to have the annual fee waived by bundling the card with certain Scotiabank chequing accounts.
Eligibility
Excellent (740+)
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Pros
- High earn rate on everyday spending categories
- Comprehensive travel and purchase insurance
- Visa Infinite perks such as concierge, events, and special offers
- 25% Car rental discounts at Avis and Budget
- Mobile device insurance
- Up to $200 welcome bonus
Cons
- Income requirements are higher: $60k personal or 100k household
- Cash back can only be redeemed once a year
Annual Interest Rates
20.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Fees
$120
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
$5
Cash Advance
$29
Over The Limit Penalty
Rewards cash back
4%
For every $1 you spend on grocery store purchases, recurring bill payments and subscription purchases
2%
For every $1 you spend on gas and daily transit purchases
1%
Cash back on all other purchases with no cash back limit
Insurance Benefits
$1,000
Mobile device insurance amount
$500,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
Earn 10% cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months (up to $2,000 in total purchases). Plus, no annual fee in the first year, including on additional cards.
To qualify for these offers make sure to open a new Scotiabank Momentum® Visa Infinite* credit card account by October 31, 2025.
To earn 10% cash back, make sure to use your new card to make everyday eligible purchases and earn 10% cash back on the first $2,000 you spend in your first 3 months from account opening.
Once you qualify, we’ll credit your account in 2 instalments:
Bonus Cash Back: The amount earned under the Cash Back Bonus Rate will be credited to your Account within approximately 7 months from the account open date; and
Regular Cash Back: The amount earned under your regular Cash Back Program Rate will be credited to your Account according to the regular cash back payment schedule as set out under the Program (i.e., November).
Individuals who are currently or were previously primary or secondary cardholders of a Scotiabank personal credit card in the past 2 years, including those that switch from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card, as well as employees of Scotiabank, are not eligible for these offers.
See terms and conditions for full details.
Rounding out our top three is the Scotiabank Momentum® Visa Infinite* Card, which shines thanks to its strong category bonuses and a competitive welcome offer:
- Competitive welcome bonus: Earn 10% cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months (up to $2,000 in total purchases). Plus, no annual fee in the first year, including on additional cards.
- Recurring bill cash back shines: Earn 4% cash back for every $1 you spend on grocery store purchases, recurring bill payments and subscription purchases, making it ideal for Canadians with multiple subscription services
- Transportation rewards: [[ ribn.prod.scotia-momentum-visa-infinite.earnRate2Text ]]
- Annual fee: $120, with first-year waiver available through special promotions
- Scotia Rewards integration: Cash back can be redeemed against your statement balance
- Visa acceptance: While scoring lower than Mastercard in our grocery saturation analysis (0.86 vs. 0.92), this card offers excellent acceptance at most other merchants
Disclosures:
-
Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Momentum® Visa Infinite* Card to learn more.
Best cash back card that just missed out on top honours
10% cash back†
Welcome Bonus
$878
First Year Value
$558
Annual Value
Welcome Bonus: Earn 10% cash back for the first 4 statements on net purchases of up to $2,000.† Plus, get a first-year annual fee rebate for you and up to three Authorized Users.†
Get this card if you...
- want high cash back rates on groceries, gas and recurring bills
- value comprehensive insurance benefits
- value a great welcome offer
Annual Fee & Annual Interest Rates
$120
Annual Fee
20.99%†
Purchase
22.99%†
Cash Advance
22.99%†
Balance Transfer
Our Take
The CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite* Card is a cash back credit card offering elevated earn rates on categories such as groceries, gas, transportation, dining, and recurring payments. Cardholders benefit from features like purchase security, extended protection, and optional insurance coverages. It's a good option for those seeking to maximize cash back on everyday spending.
Eligibility
Good (620 - 670)
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Pros
- First-year annual fee rebate†
- 10% cash back welcome bonus up to $2,000† spend
- 4% cash back on gas, electric vehicle charging and grocery stores
- 2% cash back on transportation, dining and recurring payments
- High annual spending cap on benefits ($20,000 in bonus categories or $80,000 total)
Cons
- High income requirement
- Sparse travel insurance offering
Annual Interest Rates
20.99%†
Purchase
22.99%†
Cash Advance
22.99%†
Balance Transfer
25.99%†
Penalty
Fees
$120
Annual Fee
2.50%†
Foreign Transaction
$29
Over The Limit Penalty
$42.5
Return Penalty
Rewards cash back
4%
cash back on eligible gas, EV charging, and grocery purchases.†
2%
cash back on eligible transportation, dining purchases and recurring payments†
1%
cash back on all other purchases†
10 cents
save up to 10 cents per litre† at participating Pioneer, Fas Gas, Ultramar and Chevron gas stations.†
Insurance Benefits
$1,000
Mobile device insurance amount
$5,000,000
Emergency medical insurance amount
$500,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
Get a first-year annual fee rebate for you and up to three Authorized Users† and earn 10% cash back for the first 4 statements on net purchases of up to $2,000†.
Our Take
The CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite* Card is a cash back credit card offering elevated earn rates on categories such as groceries, gas, transportation, dining, and recurring payments. Cardholders benefit from features like purchase security, extended protection, and optional insurance coverages. It's a good option for those seeking to maximize cash back on everyday spending.
Eligibility
Good (620 - 670)
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Pros
- First-year annual fee rebate†
- 10% cash back welcome bonus up to $2,000† spend
- 4% cash back on gas, electric vehicle charging and grocery stores
- 2% cash back on transportation, dining and recurring payments
- High annual spending cap on benefits ($20,000 in bonus categories or $80,000 total)
Cons
- High income requirement
- Sparse travel insurance offering
Annual Interest Rates
20.99%†
Purchase
22.99%†
Cash Advance
22.99%†
Balance Transfer
25.99%†
Penalty
Fees
$120
Annual Fee
2.50%†
Foreign Transaction
$29
Over The Limit Penalty
$42.5
Return Penalty
Rewards cash back
4%
cash back on eligible gas, EV charging, and grocery purchases.†
2%
cash back on eligible transportation, dining purchases and recurring payments†
1%
cash back on all other purchases†
10 cents
save up to 10 cents per litre† at participating Pioneer, Fas Gas, Ultramar and Chevron gas stations.†
Insurance Benefits
$1,000
Mobile device insurance amount
$5,000,000
Emergency medical insurance amount
$500,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
Get a first-year annual fee rebate for you and up to three Authorized Users† and earn 10% cash back for the first 4 statements on net purchases of up to $2,000†.
Last year's winner just misses out on our top 3, but the CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite* Card is a standout option in the cash back credit card landscape, especially for Canadians who spend heavily on groceries and gas. We recommend this card as one of the strongest options in the cash back category, even though it didn't quite make our top three this year.
- Category-leading earn rates: Offers an impressive 4% cash back on groceries and gas purchases, matching the highest rates in the market for these essential spending categories
- Strong secondary categories: Earns 2% cash back on transportation, dining purchases, and recurring payments, covering most of your regular monthly expenses
- Flexible redemption: Unlike some competitors that only allow annual redemptions, CIBC lets you redeem your cash back on demand whenever you accumulate $25 or more
- Attractive welcome bonus: Earn 10% cash back for the first 4 statements on net purchases of up to $2,000.† Plus, get a first-year annual fee rebate for you and up to three Authorized Users.†
- First-year fee waiver: The annual fee of $120 is waived for the first year, enhancing the initial value proposition
- Gas savings partnership: Save up to 10 cents per litre at participating Pioneer, Fas Gas, Ultramar, and Chevron gas stations when you link your card with Journie Rewards
The main limitation to consider is the annual spending cap - once you exceed $$20,000 in annual purchases across the bonus categories, your earn rate drops to 1% for subsequent purchases, which is frustrating.
Disclosures:
-
This is a digital-exclusive offer.†
To be eligible for this offer:
1) this offer must have been directly communicated to you from CIBC or from a partner/affiliate; and
2) you must apply for the eligible card through the link provided in the CIBC or partner/affiliate communication to you.†
This offer is reserved for you. Please do not forward it to anyone else.
CIBC may approve your application, but you are not eligible to receive this Offer if you have opened, transferred or cancelled another Dividend card within the last 12 months.†
Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed on this page are those of the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by our advertising partners.
- The information for the CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite* Card has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Best entry level cash back credit card
10% cash back
Welcome Bonus
$484
First Year Value
$384
Annual Value
Welcome Bonus: Earn 10% cash back for 2 months† (up to $100). Expires Aug 31, 2025
Get this card if you...
- want flexible cash back categories
- want unlimited cash back
- want to avoid paying an annual fee
Annual Fee & Annual Interest Rates
$0
Annual Fee
19.95% - 24.95%
Purchase
19.95%
Cash Advance
1.95% - 19.95%
Balance Transfer
Our Take
The Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card is a no-annual-fee cash back card that allows cardholders to earn a higher cash back rate in two spending categories of their choice, such as groceries, gas, or restaurants, and a lower rate on all other purchases. By opening a Tangerine Savings Account and directing cash back earnings there, a third higher rate cash back category can be added. Additional benefits include purchase assurance and extended warranty protection, with cash back rewards automatically applied monthly.
Eligibility
Good (620 - 670)
Recommended Credit Score
$12,000
Required Annual Personal Income
Pros
- No annual fee
- Choose the spending categories where you want to earn the most cash back
- Unlimited cash back—no maximum spending limit for any purchase category
- Cash back is paid out monthly rather than annually
- Periodically includes a special welcome offer where you can get extra cash back
- 1.95% interest on balance transfers for the first 6 months (1% transfer fee applies)*
Cons
- Regular cash back rates are still lower than what you can get from a card with an annual fee
- Limited extra perks or benefits beyond the cash back and balance transfer promotion
- Generally not a good fit for shopping at warehouse clubs or wholesale grocers like Costco or Walmart
- Tangerine does not have any physical bank branches
Annual Interest Rates
19.95% - 24.95%
Purchase
19.95%
Cash Advance
1.95% - 19.95%
Balance Transfer
1.95%
Balance Transfer (Introductory)
24.95%
Penalty
Fees
$0
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
3.00%
Balance Transfer
$3.5
Cash Advance
$25
Over The Limit Penalty
$25
Return Penalty
Rewards cash back
2%
Earn 2% cash back on 2 categories of your choice (e.g. groceries, recurring bills, gas, drug stores, etc.)
3
Get a Tangerine Savings account and add a 3rd 2% cash back category.
0.5%
Earn 0.50% on all your other everyday purchases.
Earn 10% cash back for 2 months† (up to $100).
Our Take
The Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card is a no-annual-fee cash back card that allows cardholders to earn a higher cash back rate in two spending categories of their choice, such as groceries, gas, or restaurants, and a lower rate on all other purchases. By opening a Tangerine Savings Account and directing cash back earnings there, a third higher rate cash back category can be added. Additional benefits include purchase assurance and extended warranty protection, with cash back rewards automatically applied monthly.
Eligibility
Good (620 - 670)
Recommended Credit Score
$12,000
Required Annual Personal Income
Pros
- No annual fee
- Choose the spending categories where you want to earn the most cash back
- Unlimited cash back—no maximum spending limit for any purchase category
- Cash back is paid out monthly rather than annually
- Periodically includes a special welcome offer where you can get extra cash back
- 1.95% interest on balance transfers for the first 6 months (1% transfer fee applies)*
Cons
- Regular cash back rates are still lower than what you can get from a card with an annual fee
- Limited extra perks or benefits beyond the cash back and balance transfer promotion
- Generally not a good fit for shopping at warehouse clubs or wholesale grocers like Costco or Walmart
- Tangerine does not have any physical bank branches
Annual Interest Rates
19.95% - 24.95%
Purchase
19.95%
Cash Advance
1.95% - 19.95%
Balance Transfer
1.95%
Balance Transfer (Introductory)
24.95%
Penalty
Fees
$0
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
3.00%
Balance Transfer
$3.5
Cash Advance
$25
Over The Limit Penalty
$25
Return Penalty
Rewards cash back
2%
Earn 2% cash back on 2 categories of your choice (e.g. groceries, recurring bills, gas, drug stores, etc.)
3
Get a Tangerine Savings account and add a 3rd 2% cash back category.
0.5%
Earn 0.50% on all your other everyday purchases.
Earn 10% cash back for 2 months† (up to $100).
The Tangerine Cash Back Credit Card stands out as an excellent no-fee option in Canada's cash back landscape. Even better, you can pick the categories in which you earn bonus rewards!
- No annual fee: Unlike our top winners that charge $120 or monthly fees, Tangerine keeps more money in your pocket by charging absolutely nothing for card membership
- Customizable cash back categories: You can select 2% cash back in up to three spending categories of your choice, including groceries, gas, recurring bills, furniture, home improvement, and public transportation
- Category flexibility: In our opinion, this is where Tangerine truly shines - you can change your 2% categories as your spending habits evolve, allowing you to maximize rewards for seasonal purchases or life changes
- Welcome bonus: Earn 10% cash back for 2 months† (up to $100).
- Low barrier to entry: With a minimum income requirement of just $12,000, it's accessible to most Canadians, including students and part-time workers
- Unlimited cash back: Unlike some competitors, there are no caps on how much you can earn in your chosen categories
Think of the Tangerine card as a customizable cash back solution that adapts to your lifestyle rather than forcing you to adapt to its reward structure.
Disclosures:
- *Terms and Conditions apply
Best cash back card for international travel
$324
First Year Value
$0
Annual Value
Get this card if you...
- want to earn cash back with no annual fee
- are an existing Rogers or Fido customer
- want complimentary lounge access
Annual Fee & Annual Interest Rates
$0
Annual Fee
20.99% - 25.99%
Purchase
22.99% - 27.99%
Cash Advance
22.99% - 27.99%
Balance Transfer
Our Take
The Rogers™ World Elite® Mastercard® is a no-annual-fee credit card offering elevated cash back rates on purchases made in U.S. dollars, with a standard rate on all other eligible purchases. Cardholders benefit from comprehensive insurance coverage, including emergency medical and rental car collision/damage protection, as well as access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide through Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass; however, the card has a high income requirement.
Eligibility
Excellent (740+)
Recommended Credit Score
$80,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
Pros
- Lucrative cash back rates on USD and CAD purchases, especially for Rogers, Fido or Shaw customers
- No annual fee with valuable insurance benefits
- Competitive against foreign transaction fee cards
- Convenient cash back redemption options
- Redemption bonus of 1.5x more cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases
- Travel insurance perks and airport lounge access
Cons
- High income requirement: $80,000 personal or $150,000 household
- Foreign transaction fee applies
- Limited redemption options for statement credits
Annual Interest Rates
20.99% - 25.99%
Purchase
22.99% - 27.99%
Cash Advance
22.99% - 27.99%
Balance Transfer
Fees
$0
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
3.00%
Balance Transfer
Rewards cash back
3%
Earn 3% unlimited cash back on all eligible purchases made in U.S. dollars.
2%
Earn 2% unlimited cash back on all eligible non-U.S. dollar purchases if you have 1 qualifying service with Rogers, Fido or Shaw
1.5%
Earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on eligible non-U.S. dollar purchases.
1.5x Cash Back
Get 1.5x more cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases.
5
Get 5 Roam Like Home days at no cost every year for Rogers mobile plans (up to $80 value).
Insurance Benefits
$1,000,000
Emergency medical insurance amount
3
Emergency medical insurance over 65 days
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
Our Take
The Rogers™ World Elite® Mastercard® is a no-annual-fee credit card offering elevated cash back rates on purchases made in U.S. dollars, with a standard rate on all other eligible purchases. Cardholders benefit from comprehensive insurance coverage, including emergency medical and rental car collision/damage protection, as well as access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide through Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass; however, the card has a high income requirement.
Eligibility
Excellent (740+)
Recommended Credit Score
$80,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
Pros
- Lucrative cash back rates on USD and CAD purchases, especially for Rogers, Fido or Shaw customers
- No annual fee with valuable insurance benefits
- Competitive against foreign transaction fee cards
- Convenient cash back redemption options
- Redemption bonus of 1.5x more cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases
- Travel insurance perks and airport lounge access
Cons
- High income requirement: $80,000 personal or $150,000 household
- Foreign transaction fee applies
- Limited redemption options for statement credits
Annual Interest Rates
20.99% - 25.99%
Purchase
22.99% - 27.99%
Cash Advance
22.99% - 27.99%
Balance Transfer
Fees
$0
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
3.00%
Balance Transfer
Rewards cash back
3%
Earn 3% unlimited cash back on all eligible purchases made in U.S. dollars.
2%
Earn 2% unlimited cash back on all eligible non-U.S. dollar purchases if you have 1 qualifying service with Rogers, Fido or Shaw
1.5%
Earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on eligible non-U.S. dollar purchases.
1.5x Cash Back
Get 1.5x more cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases.
5
Get 5 Roam Like Home days at no cost every year for Rogers mobile plans (up to $80 value).
Insurance Benefits
$1,000,000
Emergency medical insurance amount
3
Emergency medical insurance over 65 days
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
The Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard stands out as an exceptional option for the regular international traveller, offering a unique combination of foreign currency benefits and no annual fee:
- No annual fee: Unlike most premium travel cards that charge $120+ annually, the Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard delivers its benefits completely free of charge
- Strong foreign currency returns: Earns an impressive 3% cash back on all purchases made in US dollars, which partially offsets the standard 2.5% foreign transaction fee for a net gain of 0.5% on US dollar spending
- Solid base earn rate: Provides 2% unlimited cash back on all Canadian dollar purchases for Rogers, Fido, or Shaw customers (1.5% for non-customers), making it valuable for both domestic and international spending
- Comprehensive travel insurance package: Includes out-of-province/out-of-country emergency medical coverage, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and rental car collision coverage - benefits typically reserved for cards with annual fees
- Airport lounge access: Comes with complimentary membership to Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass, giving you access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide for $32 USD per visit
- Simplicity for travellers: With a consistent earn rate and no category restrictions, you don't need to track bonus categories while traveling internationally
Think of this card as a practical solution for international travelers who want to minimize fees while still earning rewards. While it doesn't completely eliminate foreign transaction fees like some other premium travel cards, it offers a rare combination of partial FTX fee offset, strong earn rates and comprehensive travel insurance without an annual fee.
Disclosures:
- Terms and conditions apply. For full and up-to-date product information and applicable terms and conditions, visit Rogersbank.com. Rogers Bank is not responsible for maintaining or controlling the accuracy of the information published on this website.
Best cash back card in Quebec
3.8
Desjardins Cash Back World Elite Mastercard
3.8
$0
First Year Value
$0
Annual Value
Get this card if you...
- reside in Quebec or Ontario
- want a generous cash back card with basic travel perks like discounted lounge access
Annual Fee & Annual Interest Rates
$100
Annual Fee
20.9%
Purchase
21.9%
Cash Advance
Our Take
The Desjardins Cash Back World Elite Mastercard is a premium credit card offering elevated cash back rates on categories such as groceries, dining, entertainment, and alternative transportation. It also provides benefits like mobile device insurance, travel insurance for short trips, and discounts on car rentals, catering to individuals seeking both rewards and comprehensive coverage.
Eligibility
Good (620 - 670)
Recommended Credit Score
$80,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
Pros
- Generous rewards: Earn up to 4% back on everyday purchases.
- Manageable annual fee: $100 annual fee is slightly lower than similar cards from other issuers.
Cons
- Spending caps: Cash back on groceries is capped at $10,000 in spending per year while dining is capped after $6,000 in spending per year.
- No welcome bonus: Desjardins Bank does not offer welcome bonuses on its credit cards.
- Limited insurance: The card provides some travel insurance but the coverage is smaller than you might find elsewhere.
Annual Interest Rates
20.9%
Purchase
21.9%
Cash Advance
Fees
$100
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
Rewards
4%
Up to 4% cash back on groceries
3%
Up to 3% cash back on restaurants
3%
cash back on entertainment and alternative transportation
1%
cash back on all other purchases
Insurance Benefits
$1,000
Mobile device insurance amount
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
Our Take
The Desjardins Cash Back World Elite Mastercard is a premium credit card offering elevated cash back rates on categories such as groceries, dining, entertainment, and alternative transportation. It also provides benefits like mobile device insurance, travel insurance for short trips, and discounts on car rentals, catering to individuals seeking both rewards and comprehensive coverage.
Eligibility
Good (620 - 670)
Recommended Credit Score
$80,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
Pros
- Generous rewards: Earn up to 4% back on everyday purchases.
- Manageable annual fee: $100 annual fee is slightly lower than similar cards from other issuers.
Cons
- Spending caps: Cash back on groceries is capped at $10,000 in spending per year while dining is capped after $6,000 in spending per year.
- No welcome bonus: Desjardins Bank does not offer welcome bonuses on its credit cards.
- Limited insurance: The card provides some travel insurance but the coverage is smaller than you might find elsewhere.
Annual Interest Rates
20.9%
Purchase
21.9%
Cash Advance
Fees
$100
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
Rewards
4%
Up to 4% cash back on groceries
3%
Up to 3% cash back on restaurants
3%
cash back on entertainment and alternative transportation
1%
cash back on all other purchases
Insurance Benefits
$1,000
Mobile device insurance amount
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
- Attractive rewards structure: Earn up to 4% back on grocery store purchases, 3% back on restaurants, entertainment and alternative transportation and 1% back on all other purchases.
- Mobile device insurance: Offers up to $1,000 coverage for lost, stolen, accidentally damaged, or mechanically broken mobile devices when you charge the full cost to your card
- Travel insurance package: Includes comprehensive coverage with emergency healthcare, trip cancellation/interruption, flight delay, and baggage loss protection
- Unique Bonusdollars advantage: Earns Bonusdollars that can be redeemed for merchandise, travel, gift cards, or statement credits, giving you more flexibility than traditional cash back programs
- Premium dining perks: Comes with the Mastercard Travel Experiences provided by Plusgrade and Mastercard Priceless Experiences, offering unique opportunities for cardholders
Disclosures:
- *Terms and conditions apply
Best cash back Mastercard from RBC
up to 7% cash back^
Welcome Bonus
$346
First Year Value
$276
Annual Value
Welcome Bonus: Get up to 7% cash back in the first 3 months up to a total of $1,000 in purchases^. Expires Jul 08, 2025
Get this card if you...
- want to earn cash back, without an annual fee
- value extended warranty and purchase protection
- want fuel discounts at Petro Canada
Annual Fee & Annual Interest Rates
$0
Annual Fee
20.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Our Take
The RBC Cash Back Mastercard® is a no-annual-fee credit card that offers cash back on everyday purchases, with elevated rates for grocery store spending. Cardholders benefit from features such as purchase security, extended warranty protection, and savings on fuel at Petro-Canada.
Eligibility
Good (620 - 670)
Recommended Credit Score
Pros
- No annual fee, no fee for additional cardholders
- Up to 2% cash back on groceries², up to 1% cash back on everything else²
- No limit on cash back earned¹
- Save money on gas at Petro-Canada⁵
- Easy approval requirements
Cons
- Cash back rewards on groceries drop to 1% after you accumulate $6,000 in grocery charges
- No travel insurance or other perks
- 0.5% applies to the cash back on everything else up to $6,000 but what is impressive is that for all non-grocery spend the cash back rate actually goes up from the 0.5% to 1% on spend over $6,000, rewarding as your spend more instead of diminishing
Annual Interest Rates
20.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Fees
$0
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
5.00%
Balance Transfer
$5
Cash Advance
$45
Return Penalty
Rewards cash back
2%
Up to 2% unlimited cash back on groceries
1%
Up to 1% unlimited cash back on everything else
$0.03
Link your card and instantly save 3¢/L on fuel and 20% more Petro-Points at Petro Canada
50
Get 50 Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at Rexall
$0 Delivery Fees
Get $0 delivery fees for 3 months from DoorDash when you add your eligible RBC credit card to your DoorDash account
Get up to 7% cash back in the first 3 months up to a total of $1,000 purchases^.
5% bonus cash back up to $1,000 spend for all purchases^, plus
2% cash back on groceries and 0.5% on all other purchases**
Thereafter, unlimited cash back & up to 2% cash back on groceries and up to 1% cash back on all other purchases**
Apply by July 8, 2025.
^ This offer only applies to new applications for an RBC Cash Back Mastercard credit card received between Feb 27, 2025 and July 8, 2025 (“Offer Period”) and approved by Royal Bank of Canada (“Royal Bank”), subject to the conditions below. Additional cardholders(s) (co-applicant and authorized user(s)) on the RBC Cash Back Mastercard credit card account, as well as existing cardholders on any RBC Royal Bank personal credit card transferring to an RBC Cash Back Mastercard credit card during the Offer Period, are not eligible for this offer.
Our Take
The RBC Cash Back Mastercard® is a no-annual-fee credit card that offers cash back on everyday purchases, with elevated rates for grocery store spending. Cardholders benefit from features such as purchase security, extended warranty protection, and savings on fuel at Petro-Canada.
Eligibility
Good (620 - 670)
Recommended Credit Score
Pros
- No annual fee, no fee for additional cardholders
- Up to 2% cash back on groceries², up to 1% cash back on everything else²
- No limit on cash back earned¹
- Save money on gas at Petro-Canada⁵
- Easy approval requirements
Cons
- Cash back rewards on groceries drop to 1% after you accumulate $6,000 in grocery charges
- No travel insurance or other perks
- 0.5% applies to the cash back on everything else up to $6,000 but what is impressive is that for all non-grocery spend the cash back rate actually goes up from the 0.5% to 1% on spend over $6,000, rewarding as your spend more instead of diminishing
Annual Interest Rates
20.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Fees
$0
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
5.00%
Balance Transfer
$5
Cash Advance
$45
Return Penalty
Rewards cash back
2%
Up to 2% unlimited cash back on groceries
1%
Up to 1% unlimited cash back on everything else
$0.03
Link your card and instantly save 3¢/L on fuel and 20% more Petro-Points at Petro Canada
50
Get 50 Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at Rexall
$0 Delivery Fees
Get $0 delivery fees for 3 months from DoorDash when you add your eligible RBC credit card to your DoorDash account
Get up to 7% cash back in the first 3 months up to a total of $1,000 purchases^.
5% bonus cash back up to $1,000 spend for all purchases^, plus
2% cash back on groceries and 0.5% on all other purchases**
Thereafter, unlimited cash back & up to 2% cash back on groceries and up to 1% cash back on all other purchases**
Apply by July 8, 2025.
^ This offer only applies to new applications for an RBC Cash Back Mastercard credit card received between Feb 27, 2025 and July 8, 2025 (“Offer Period”) and approved by Royal Bank of Canada (“Royal Bank”), subject to the conditions below. Additional cardholders(s) (co-applicant and authorized user(s)) on the RBC Cash Back Mastercard credit card account, as well as existing cardholders on any RBC Royal Bank personal credit card transferring to an RBC Cash Back Mastercard credit card during the Offer Period, are not eligible for this offer.
- No annual fee structure: Unlike premium cash back cards that charge $120+ annually, this card lets you earn rewards without any upfront or ongoing cost
- Tiered earning structure: Earns 2% cash back on grocery purchases and 1% on all other eligible purchases, providing cardholders rewards on essential everyday spending
- No earning caps: Unlike some competitors that limit rewards in bonus categories, this card allows unlimited earning potential without monthly or annual caps
- Flexible redemption options: Cash back can be applied as a statement credit or deposited directly to your RBC bank account in increments as low as $25
- Purchase security and extended warranty: Provides 90 days of purchase protection against loss, theft, or damage, plus doubles the manufacturer's warranty up to one additional year
- RBC ecosystem benefits: Integrates with other RBC products and services, offering additional value for existing RBC clients through the RBC Rewards program
Disclosures:
- *This post contains affiliate links. Please read disclaimer for more info.
- Refer to RBC page for up to date offer terms and conditions
Best cash back Visa from TD Canada Trust
TD Cash Back Visa* Card
up to $50 cash back†
Welcome Bonus
$0
First Year Value
$0
Annual Value
Welcome Bonus: Earn up to $50 in Cash Back Dollars† with the TD Cash Back Visa Card. Conditions apply.
Annual Fee & Annual Interest Rates
$0
Annual Fee
21.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Eligibility
Good (620 - 670)
Recommended Credit Score
Annual Interest Rates
21.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
24.99%
Penalty
Fees
$0
Annual Fee
$3.5
Cash Advance
Earn up to $50 in Cash Back Dollars† with the TD Cash Back Visa Card. Conditions apply. Offer effective as of June 4, 2025.
Earn $10 in Cash Back Dollars on first purchase with your card†.
Earn an additional $40 in Cash Back Dollars when you reach a spend of $1,500 in the first 3 months of account opening†.
Cash Back Dollars can be redeemed to help pay down your account balance†.
†Terms and conditions apply.
This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) is not responsible for the contents of this site including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any TD product, please click the Apply Now button. Sponsored Content.
Eligibility
Good (620 - 670)
Recommended Credit Score
Annual Interest Rates
21.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
24.99%
Penalty
Fees
$0
Annual Fee
$3.5
Cash Advance
Earn up to $50 in Cash Back Dollars† with the TD Cash Back Visa Card. Conditions apply. Offer effective as of June 4, 2025.
Earn $10 in Cash Back Dollars on first purchase with your card†.
Earn an additional $40 in Cash Back Dollars when you reach a spend of $1,500 in the first 3 months of account opening†.
Cash Back Dollars can be redeemed to help pay down your account balance†.
†Terms and conditions apply.
This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) is not responsible for the contents of this site including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any TD product, please click the Apply Now button. Sponsored Content.
- Category-leading earn rates: Earns a generous 1% cash back on groceries, gas, electric vehicle charging, public transit, recurring bill payments, and streaming/digital gaming/media purchases, covering most essential spending categories
- No annual fee: There's no annual fee with the card, meaning you won't have to pay a fee of $139 or more, common with other cash back cards
- Flexible redemption options: Unlike some competitors that only allow annual redemptions, TD lets you redeem your cash back anytime once you've accumulated $25 or more
- Comprehensive insurance package: Includes emergency medical coverage for travel, mobile device insurance, and purchase protection - benefits typically reserved for premium travel cards
Disclosures:
-
†Terms and conditions apply.
This offer is not available to residents of Quebec.
The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) is not responsible for the contents of this site including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any TD product, please click the Apply Now button. Sponsored Content.
How does cash back work?
Cash back credit cards are like finding money in your pocket every time you shop, turning your everyday purchases into a money-earning machine. When you make a purchase with your cash back credit card, you earn a percentage of that purchase amount back as a reward. For example, if your card offers 2% cash back on groceries and you spend $200, you'll earn $4 back on that transaction.
There are 3 main types of cash back cards:
Type of cash back
Description
Example
Bonus cash back
Higher cash back rates on specific categories (e.g., groceries, gas, entertainment, bills)
Pros and cons of cash back credit cards
Pros
- Simplicity: Cash back rewards are straightforward: you spend money, you get a percentage back
- Flexibility: Cash can be used for anything, unlike travel points or store-specific rewards.
- Money motivation: Seeing your cash back accumulate can motivate you to track your spending more closely
Cons
- Category restrictions: Cards with bonus categories might not align with your spending habits
- Redemption minimums: Some cards require you to accumulate a minimum amount of cash back before you can redeem
- Rewards value might be lower: High-spending individuals might get more value from travel rewards cards, especially for luxury travel
How much money could you save with a cash back credit card?
As mentioned, cash back is like finding money in your pocket every time you shop. How much? How does up to $600 or more annually sound?
Let's walk through a real-world example of calculating your cash back earn rate with the CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite* card. This example will help you understand how the tiered cash back structure works and how to use those rewards for your benefit.
Let's use the following example monthly expenses:
Category
Spending
Dividend earn rate
Cash back earned
Groceries
$600
4%
$24
Gas/EV charging
$200
4%
$8
Public transit
$100
2%
$2
Dining out
$300
2%
$6
Recurring payments
$400
2%
$8
Other purchases
$500
1%
$5
Total spend
$2,100
-
$53
Over a year, you can expect to earn the following cash back (if your spending remains steady, that is):
- Total annual spending: $25,200
- Total annual cash back: $636
Keep in mind that the CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite* card comes with a $120 annual fee, which is currently rebated for the first year. Even after accounting for this fee in subsequent years, you'd still be earning a significant amount in cash back rewards.
Apply Now for the CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite* CardHow to choose the best cash back credit card for you
When comparing cash back cards, consider how much cash back it will really deliver to your budget based on your spending habits. Here's what to look for:
- Promotional earn rates: Look for cards offering high introductory cash back rates (typically 10%) for the first 2-3 months to maximize initial returns
- Category earn rates: Choose between flat-rate cards (same percentage on all purchases) or tiered cards (higher rates on specific categories like groceries or gas)
- Cash back caps: Check if there are limits on how much cash back you can earn in specific categories or overall
- Redemption options: Consider whether you prefer automatic disbursements or on-demand redemptions, and what minimum threshold is required
- Annual fee value: Calculate if the higher earn rates on premium cards will generate enough cash back to offset any annual fees
- Payment processor acceptance: Ensure your preferred card (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express) is accepted at your most frequent shopping locations
Should you apply for a cash back credit card in Canada?
Cash back credit cards can be an excellent choice for many Canadians looking to maximize their everyday spending. These cards offer straightforward rewards that can add up to significant savings over time. Whether you're a grocery shopper, a commuter, or a frequent diner, there's likely a cash back card tailored to your spending habits.
When choosing the best cash back credit card for you, consider factors such as earn rates, annual fees, and welcome bonuses. Remember, the right card should align with your spending patterns and financial goals. By strategically using a cash back credit card, you can put money back in your pocket with every swipe, tap, or online purchase.
Cash back credit card FAQs
Bridget Casey
Author
Bridget Casey is the award-winning entrepreneur behind Money After Graduation, a Canadian financial literacy website aimed at 20 and 30-somethings. She holds a BSc. from the University of Alberta, and an MBA in Finance from the University of Calgary. She has been featured as a millennial financial expert by Yahoo! Finance, TIME Magazine, Business Insider, CBC and BNN. Bridget was recognized as one of Alberta's Top Young Innovators in 2016.
Cory Santos
Credit card editor
Cory Santos is a finance writer, editor and credit card expert with nearly a decade of experience in personal finance. Cory joined Wise Publishing from BestCards, with bylines in numerous print and digital publications across North America, including the Miami Herald, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Debt.ca, AOL, MSN and Medium as well as financial podcasts like KOFE Talk. He's also the creator and author of the annual Money.ca Credit Card Awards.
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Disclaimer
The content provided on Money.ca is information to help users become financially literate. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, either express or implied, with respect to the data provided, the timeliness thereof, the results to be obtained by the use thereof or any other matter. Advertisers are not responsible for the content of this site, including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any advertiser product, please visit their website.
†Terms and Conditions apply.