Best Cash Back Credit Cards of 2026: Maximize Every Purchase

TL;DR: Citi Double Cash is the simplest 2% on everything. Chase Freedom Flex maximizes 5% categories. Blue Cash Preferred is best for groceries.

Top Cash Back Cards 2026

1. Citi Double Cash — Best Simple 2% Back

1% when you buy, 1% when you pay. No categories, no enrollment, no caps. Best for people who want one card for everything.

2. Chase Freedom Flex — Best for Maximizers

5% on rotating quarterly categories (Amazon, gas stations, grocery stores), 3% on dining and drugstores, 1% on everything else. Pair with a Chase Sapphire for point transfers.

Strategy: The 2-Card Combo That Maximizes Returns

1. Amex Blue Cash Preferred for groceries (6%) and gas (3%)

2. Citi Double Cash for everything else (2%)

On $3,000/month spending: ~$75/month = $900/year in cash back.

This article is informational. Credit decisions are individual — compare rates before applying.