best cash reward credit cards

December 30, 2008 · Filed Under Money

For years I built up miles using my reward credit cards, only to find out that those miles were worth less and less. About a year ago I decided it was time to switch, and I’ve applied for and received two great credit cards that reward you with something that never goes out of style – cash!

Blue Cash from American Express

I have been a big fan of Blue Amex cards for a long time now. Amex is the greatest card I’ve ever owned for two reasons. First of all, they have the best record of your spending of any credit card, bar none. I get a fancy year-end report categorizing my spending and I can download it in all kinds of ways from the website. Second of all, they are the best credit card company if you need to dispute a charge. They don’t argue with you – if you call up and dispute a charge, they take it off your account immediately. They’ll work it out with the vendor and if it’s settled, then you don’t have to worry about the charge. Other credit cards may make you pay, then send a refund if it’s settled.

Throw in a 0% introductory rate, no annual fee and 5% cash back on just about everything, and you’ve got a card you can’t beat.

Discover More

The Discover card is great for shopping online. You can earn up to 5% cash back at some retailers. There are no annual fees. I don’t use it as much as the Blue Cash card, but it never hurts to have a backup for online shopping to prevent too much risk of identity theft!