When it comes to grocery shopping, most of us are already familiar with the routine — grab a cart, fill it with essentials, and head to the checkout counter. But what if you could earn money back on your everyday purchases? Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, it’s not. Cashback credit cards offer a fantastic opportunity to save a bit on your grocery bills while still stocking up on what you need.
Let’s dive into some of the best cashback credit cards for grocery shopping, how they work, and what makes them stand out. Whether you’re a casual shopper or a big spender, there’s likely a card that can help you make the most of your grocery run.
Why Use a Cashback Credit Card for Groceries?
Before we jump into the specific card recommendations, let’s talk about why using a cashback credit card for grocery shopping is a great idea. The obvious benefit is that you can earn cashback on the money you’re already spending. Plus, most cards offer higher cashback rates for grocery purchases, meaning every time you shop, you’re getting a bit back — without any extra effort.
Many cashback cards also provide additional perks, such as sign-up bonuses, 0% APR on purchases for the first few months, and access to special discounts or rewards programs. It’s a win-win.
1. Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
If you’re a regular grocery shopper, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a top contender. This card gives you a massive 6% cashback on groceries at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases). After you hit the $6,000 limit, the cashback drops to 1%, which is still pretty decent.
But that’s not all. You’ll also earn 3% cashback on gas and transit purchases, making this a great option for those who do a lot of traveling in addition to shopping. Plus, there’s a $300 statement credit if you spend $3,000 in the first three months of card membership.
Of course, like any premium card, it does come with an annual fee of $95, but if you’re someone who regularly buys groceries, the cashback rewards should easily outweigh the fee.
2. Chase Freedom Flex℠
Another excellent option is the Chase Freedom Flex℠ card. While it doesn’t offer as high cashback on groceries as some other cards, it makes up for it with a strong 5% cashback in rotating categories each quarter, which sometimes includes grocery stores. This makes it ideal for people who are willing to keep an eye on the rotating categories to maximize their cashback.
Additionally, you’ll earn 1% cashback on all other purchases, and there’s no annual fee, which is always a plus. Plus, the $200 bonus if you spend $500 in the first three months of account opening is a solid incentive.
However, it’s worth noting that grocery purchases at Target and Walmart aren’t eligible for the 5% category, but they still qualify for the 1% cashback. So, if you shop at other grocery stores that fall into the quarterly categories, you’ll be racking up some serious rewards.
3. Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card
For those who prefer shopping online or get a lot of their groceries through Amazon, the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card is a no-brainer. While this card doesn’t offer a specific grocery store category, it makes up for that with 5% cashback on all Amazon purchases — and that includes your grocery orders from Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods.
You’ll also earn 2% cashback at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores, and 1% cashback on all other purchases. Since many of us do at least a portion of our shopping online, this card can be incredibly valuable if you buy groceries from Amazon or other eligible retailers.
There is a $0 annual fee for Prime members (but a $119/year membership is required for Amazon Prime), making it a low-cost option for those who already subscribe to Amazon Prime. Additionally, you get a $100 Amazon gift card upon approval, which can be a nice perk to kickstart your rewards journey.
4. Citi® Double Cash Card
For those who prefer a simpler, no-fuss approach to cashback, the Citi® Double Cash Card is a great option. This card gives you 2% cashback on every purchase: 1% when you buy and another 1% when you pay off your balance. It doesn’t matter whether you’re shopping for groceries, gas, or a new pair of shoes — you earn cashback on everything.
While it doesn’t offer a specific grocery category with a higher rate, its simplicity makes it a solid choice for people who don’t want to worry about rotating categories or annual fees. Plus, there’s no annual fee and no cap on how much cashback you can earn.
For someone who prefers an all-around cashback card that works on every purchase, the Citi® Double Cash Card is hard to beat.
5. Capital One® SavorOne® Cash Rewards Credit Card
If you love eating out as much as you love grocery shopping, the Capital One® SavorOne® Cash Rewards Credit Card might be your perfect match. While this card offers 1% cashback on most purchases, it shines with 3% cashback on dining, entertainment, and grocery stores. This is especially useful for those who frequently dine out or pick up takeout alongside their grocery purchases.
This card has no annual fee and offers a $200 bonus if you spend $500 within the first three months of opening your account. The 3% cashback on grocery purchases applies to U.S. supermarkets, which makes it a solid choice for people who want a bit more flexibility with where they shop.
6. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
For shoppers who don’t want to mess around with rotating categories or annual fees, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers a straightforward, no-hassle cashback program. With 2% cashback on every purchase, this card is a good option for someone who doesn’t want to track specific grocery categories but still wants to earn solid rewards.
The $200 cash rewards bonus (if you spend $1,000 in the first three months) and no annual fee make it a strong contender for a broad cashback card. Whether you’re grocery shopping or buying a new pair of shoes, you’ll be earning cashback on everything.
Which One Is Right for You?
With so many options on the market, choosing the best cashback credit card for groceries can feel overwhelming. It all depends on your shopping habits, the stores you frequent, and how much you’re willing to spend annually in order to maximize your cashback.
For those who shop regularly at U.S. supermarkets and want the highest cashback rate, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is hard to beat. However, if you’re looking for more flexibility and don’t mind rotating categories, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ might be your go-to.
On the other hand, if you’re an Amazon Prime member and frequently shop for groceries online, the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card could be your best option.
If you want a card with straightforward rewards and no categories to track, both the Citi® Double Cash Card and the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offer reliable cashback on all purchases, including groceries.
Final Thoughts
No matter your grocery shopping habits, there’s a cashback credit card out there that can help you earn some extra cash. Whether you’re looking for the highest cashback rate, the simplest rewards program, or specific bonuses like dining and Amazon purchases, there’s an option that fits your lifestyle.
So next time you head to the store, don’t forget to bring your credit card — the rewards you earn could add up quicker than you think. Happy shopping, and may the cashback be with you!