The best cashback credit cards 2024

We look at the best cashback credit cards out there.

The best cashback credit cards can be a valuable ally to savvy spenders – provided they're used correctly.

By paying for things you needed anyway with your cashback card and then clearing the debt immediately, you can earn yourself a tidy cash boost.

Unfortunately, like reward credit cards, many cashback cards have been cut (or the cashback on offer) has been slashed in recent years.

In this guide, we’ll run through the various top cashback cards available on the market (or you can jump straight in and find a top cashback card with Moneysupermarket now).

But before we do, it’s worth stressing that a cashback credit card is not worth getting if you don't clear your debt each month, as the interest rate will more than wipe out any cashback you earn.

If a credit card isn't quite right for you, the good news is there are loads of other ways to get rewarded for your spending. You can read all about them in our ultimate guide to cashback. 

Find a top cashback credit card with Moneysupermarket

American Express Cashback Everyday Credit Card

The American Express Platinum Cashback Everyday Card (representative APR 30.7%) offers 5% cashback for the first five months up to a maximum of £125.

After that, you’ll get 0.5% cashback on any spending of up to £10,000 per card membership year and 1% cashback on all sums above that.

While the rates on this cashback card are less generous than other Amex offerings, it is at least fee-free.

Note, you need to spend at least £3,000 in a year on the card to ensure your purchases qualify for cashback.

If you'd like to spread the cost of large purchases, the lender’s Plan It feature allows you to choose a transaction (or amount) and pay in instalments over three, six or 12 months.

This amount must be £100 or more, and you’ll also pay a fixed monthly fee for the service (which will be displayed when you set up your plan).

American Express Cashback Credit Card 

The American Express Platinum Cashback Credit Card pays 5% cashback in the first three months up to £125, while the APR is 36.3%.

After this initial period, you’ll get 0.75% cashback on any spending of up to £10,000 per card membership year and 1.25% cashback when you spend over £10,000.

With this card, there is also a £25 annual fee to consider.

Again, the lender's Plan It tool can help you spread the cost of large purchases across instalments of three, six or 12 months (for a fixed monthly fee).

Barclaycard Rewards Card

The Barclaycard Rewards card (representative APR 28.9%) offers 0.25% cashback on all spending.

Plus, you could earn up to 15% cashback when you register your card with the bank's Cashback Rewards website and spend at participating retailers.

The card could be a decent option if you plan to use your credit card abroad. You can avoid non-sterling purchase fees as long as you pay in the local currency.

This credit card doesn’t charge interest on cash withdrawals overseas if you pay off your balance in full every month.

The best fee-free travel credit cards to use abroad

Santander All in One Credit Card

The Santander All in One Credit Card offers 0.5% cashback on spending up to a maximum of £10 per month.

It also comes with 0% on balance transfers for 15 months (with no fee), interest-free purchases for 15 months and no foreign transaction fees on purchases overseas.

But it charges for cash withdrawals and the card attracts a £3 monthly fee, meaning you'll need to spend £600 a month on this card to break even.

Also, be aware, you'll need to have an income of at least £10,500 a year to apply. 

The representative APR is 29.8%.

Lloyds World Elite Mastercard

When you open an account, the Lloyds World Elite Mastercard (representative APR 22.94% on purchases) will pay you 0.5% cashback on purchases up to £15,000.

Once your total spending has reached £15,000, the rate will increase to 1% until the anniversary of the account opening.

At this stage, the rate will revert to 0.5%, and then return to 1% if your spending again reaches £15,000.

This pattern will repeat each anniversary year of the account opening. 

On top of this, Lloyds offers several perks that could appeal to frequent travellers, including access to more than 1,300 airport lounges and the ability to skip queues at certain airports.

Cardholders also receive access to Mastercard's Priceless experiences, which include VIP tickets to sporting events and exhibitions (a fee will still apply to attend these events).

Be aware, the card comes with a hefty £15 monthly fee, which you'll need to weigh against the overall benefit of the cashback and other perks you receive.

Find a cashback credit card that meets your spending habits with Moneysupermarket

Making the most of cashback cards

To make the most of your cashback card, put as much of your spending on it as you possibly can but always clear the balance at the end of the month.

Setting up a Direct Debit payment to do this is the easiest way to make sure you don't have to pay any interest charges.

As with any credit card, using it will give you the legal protection offered by Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974.

Never use these credit cards to withdraw cash. The charges are horrendous, and your withdrawals won't qualify for cashback. Balance transfers also aren't eligible for cashback.

If you'd prefer rewards to cash, a reward credit card may be a better option.

Find a top cashback credit card with Moneysupermarket