Best Credit Cards for Recent College Graduates

The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is a good choice for extra cash back on groceries, gas, and online shopping. It offers 3% cash back in these categories, capped at $6,000 annually per category, and a 0% APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers and then 18.49% to 29.49% variable APR afterward (see rates and fees).. However, the bonus cash back rates are capped, which might limit its appeal for heavier spenders.

• Rewards

  • Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year, then 1% after that.
  • Earn 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases up to $6,000 per year, then 1% after that.
  • Earn 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 per year, then 1% after that.
  • Enjoy 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Cash back is received as Reward Dollars and redeemable as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.

• Introductory Offers

  • Earn a $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first six months of opening your new card.
  • Benefit from 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from account opening. After the intro period, a variable APR of 18.49%–29.49% applies. See rates and fees.

• Perks and Benefits

  • Receive a $7 statement credit each month after spending $12.99 or more on an eligible subscription to The Disney Bundle with your Blue Cash Everyday Card.
  • Enjoy up to $15 back each month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday Card.

• APRs, Fees and Penalties

  • No annual fee. See rates and fees.
  • Regular APR: 18.49%–29.49% variable See rates and fees.
  • Penalty APR: 29.99% variable See rates and fees.
  • Cash Advance Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater See rates and fees.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to U.S. dollars See rates and fees.
  • Late Payment Fee: Up to $40 See rates and fees.
  • Returned Payment Fee: Up to $40 See rates and fees.
  • Balance Transfer Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater See rates and fees.

The Capital One Platinum Credit Card is a solid choice for those looking for straightforward functionality. With no hidden fees and a quick approval process, it's user-friendly and transparent. The potential for credit line enhancement in just six months and complimentary credit score monitoring are great tools for those focused on financial growth. While it doesn't offer a rewards system, and its APR is on the higher side, its features like 24/7 account access, contactless payments and payment flexibility make it a reliable card for everyday use.

• APRS, Fees, and Penalties

  • Enjoy no annual or hidden fees with this card.

• Credit Building

  • Benefit from an automatic credit line review after six months.
  • Responsible card use can help build your credit.

• Security Features

  • $0 Fraud Liability protects you from unauthorized charges.

• Account Management

  • Manage your account 24/7 via desktop or smartphone with the Capital One app.
  • Monitor your credit score for free with CreditWise.

• Payment Options

  • Check out quickly and securely with the contactless payment feature.
  • Choose flexible payment options with no fees, including online, by check, or at a local branch.

The Capital One Platinum Secured Card is a commendable tool for individuals looking to pave their credit journey. Without the burden of annual fees and the advantage of quick approvals, this card positions itself as a user-friendly option. While the initial security deposit is a caveat, the card promises credit line enhancements within half a year based on responsible use. The cherry on top is its robust security features and the ability to monitor one's credit score seamlessly. It's suitable for those eyeing credit growth, although potential users should be mindful of its higher interest rates.

• APRS, Fees, and Penalties

  • Enjoy no annual or hidden fees, and find out if you're approved in seconds.

• Credit Building

  • Build your credit by using the Capital One Platinum Secured card responsibly.
  • Start with a refundable security deposit as low as $49 to access a $200 initial credit line.
  • Earn back your security deposit as a statement credit by making on-time payments.
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months without needing an additional deposit.

• Perks & Benefits

  • Benefit from $0 Fraud Liability, ensuring you're not responsible for unauthorized charges.
  • Monitor your credit score for free with CreditWise from Capital One.
  • Access your account 24/7 via online banking or the Capital One mobile app.

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card is a good choice for straightforward rewards, with unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases and no annual fee. There are some cards with higher flat cash back rates, but the Quicksilver’s more lenient penalties and fees and more competitive introductory offers, are worth your consideration if you’re looking for a simple card for everyday spending.

• Introductory Offers

  • Earn a $200 cash bonus after spending $500 within the first three months of opening your account.
  • Enjoy a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months. After that, the variable APR ranges from 19.74% to 29.74%. A balance transfer fee applies.

• Rewards

  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day.
  • Earn 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

• APRs, Fees, and Penalties

  • No annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.

• Perks & Benefits

  • Cash back rewards do not expire for the life of the account.
  • No rotating categories or sign-ups are needed to earn cash rewards.

The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, making it a solid choice for those with fair credit aiming to build their credit profile. It's particularly beneficial for individuals who pay off their balances in full each month. However, the card's $39 annual fee and high 29.99% variable APR should deter those still managing debt.

Rewards

• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
• Earn 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

Perks & Benefits

• Enjoy $0 Fraud Liability for unauthorized charges.
• Be considered for a higher credit line in as little as six months.
• Use contactless payment for quick and secure transactions.

Credit Building

• Monitor your credit score for free with CreditWise from Capital One.
• Strengthen your credit with responsible card use.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card lets you earn easy cash back without an annual fee. It combines 3% cash back on dining and drugstores and 1.5% cash back on other purchases. It’s great if you’re looking for a one card solution, but you can also earn higher value by pairing it with other Chase cards.

Key Features

• Card Uses: Cash Back, Balance Transfer, Zero Interest
• Annual Fee: $0
• Introductory Offer: Earn a $250 bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months.
• Rewards: 5% cash back on travel through Chase Travel℠, 3% on dining and drugstores and 1.5% on all other purchases.

APR and Fees

• Introductory APRs: 0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
• Regular APRs: 19.99%–28.74% variable
• Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% variable
• Balance Transfer Fees: Intro fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater, on transfers made within 60 days of account opening. After that, either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
• Late Fees: Up to $40
• Foreign Transaction Fee: None

Perks and Protections

• Zero Liability Protection
• Extended Warranty Protection
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance
• Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
• Travel and Emergency Assistance Services
• DashPass Membership
• $10 Off Quarterly on DoorDash Non-Restaurant Orders
• Chase Pay Over Time

Great if you’re improving your credit, the Discover it® Secured offers a no-annual-fee route to an unsecured card with the bonus of cash back rewards. However, an initial security deposit is required.

• Rewards   
  • Earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter.    
  • Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.  
• Perks & Benefits  
  • No credit score is required to apply.    
  • Automatic reviews start at 7 months to assess eligibility for transitioning to an unsecured line of credit.    Discover can help reduce your personal information exposure online by removing it from select people-search sites. Activate this service for free via the mobile app.    
  • Receive alerts if your Social Security number is found on Dark Web sites. Activate this service for free.  
• APRS, Fees, and Penalties  
  • No annual fee.  
• Security Deposit    
  • A refundable security deposit is required, with your credit line equal to your deposit amount, starting at $200. Bank information must be provided when submitting your deposit.

The Chase Freedom Flex® Card is great for strategic spenders who can track rotating categories to maximize cash back. It lets you earn 5% cash back on rotating categories (with quarterly caps and activation) and 3% on dining and drugstores. Notably, it’s a part of the Chase Trifecta strategy.

Introductory Offers

• Cash Bonus: Earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 in the first three months.
• Introductory APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months. After the introductory period, the variable APR ranges from 19.99% to 28.74%.
• Balance Transfer Fee: 3% of the amount of each transfer, with a minimum of $5.

Cash Back

• Rotating Categories: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in rotating categories each quarter (activation required).
• Fixed Categories: 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1% on all other purchases.
• Chase Ultimate Rewards: Points can be redeemed for cash back or transferred to Chase Sapphire cards for travel rewards.

APRs, Fees, and Penalties

• Annual Fee: $0.
• Regular APR: 19.99% - 28.74% variable.
• Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% variable for late or missed payments.
• Balance Transfer Fee: 3% of the transferred amount (minimum $5).
• Late Fees: Up to $40 for missed payments.
• Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% on each transaction made outside the U.S.

Perks & Benefits

• Zero Liability Protection: Protection against unauthorized purchases.
• Extended Warranty Protection: Extends the U.S. manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible purchases.
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance: Reimbursement for covered travel disruptions.
• Cell Phone Protection: Coverage for damage or theft when you pay your monthly bill with the card.
• Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver: Provides primary rental car insurance when you decline the rental company’s insurance.
• DashPass Membership: Complimentary access to DashPass, offering discounts on food delivery with DoorDash.

The Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa® Credit Card is an impressive choice for those looking to construct a solid credit foundation without the burdens of annual fees or interest. It champions your credit-building journey by reporting to all major bureaus, and its no-credit-check feature makes it accessible to many. Although you'd need a Chime account and the card uses your deposited funds as collateral, its overall value is undeniable, especially when considering its universal acceptance as a Visa card. This card marries simplicity with functionality.

• The card comes with no annual fee or interest
• Applying for the card doesn't require a credit check
• To qualify for this card, set up a Chime checking account and ensure a qualifying payroll direct deposit of $200 or more
• You can instantly disable the card to guard against fraudulent activities
• This card lets you build credit with your own funds, reducing risks of debt and missed payments
• The Chime Credit Builder Card reports to all three credit bureaus
• The card is issued by Stride Bank, N.A. and is accepted wherever Visa credit cards are used
• While there's no interest, fees apply for out-of-network ATM withdrawals except in specific ATM
• Funds added to the Credit Builder act as collateral for the card, allowing you to spend up to the deposited amount

The Petal 2 Visa is a breath of fresh air in the credit card scene. What stands out? There is a complete absence of pesky fees, whether you're traveling abroad or accidentally miss a payment. Notably, it offers cash back on all spending, with an opportunity to amplify those rewards at particular merchants. If building or rebuilding credit is your goal, this card is an ally, reporting diligently to all major credit bureaus. For tech enthusiasts, its seamless integration with digital wallets and contactless payments makes checkouts a breeze. Keep in mind, however, that understanding the card's reward structure may require some time and effort.

• Enjoy a card with absolutely no fees: not for late payments, foreign transactions, annual charges or anything else.
• APR: 18.24% to 32.24% (variable)
• Get 1% cash back on all your purchases. After 12 timely monthly payments, your cash back rate becomes 1.5%.
• Selected merchants offer between 2% and 10% cash back.
• Check for pre-approval quickly without affecting your credit.
• Provides data to all three main credit bureaus.
• Easily pay using your mobile by adding your Petal card to your digital wallet.
• The card features swift and secure contactless payment; just tap to pay.

The American Express Cash Magnet® Card stands out with its mix of value and functionality. Offering a combination of no annual fees, an enticing welcome credit and a 0% intro APR, it's a compelling choice for the savvy spender. The unlimited cash back is a genuine bonus, though it's worth noting it can only be redeemed as statement credits. Note that some may find the post-introductory APR a bit steep and Amex's acceptance less ubiquitous than Visa or Mastercard.

• No annual fee See Rates and Fees
• 0% Intro APR on purchases for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, a variable APR of 18.99%–29.99% applies. See Rates and Fees
• Earn a $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 on your new card within the first six months.
• Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
• Cash back is awarded as Reward Dollars, which can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Maximize the Plan It® feature to divide purchases of $100 or more into monthly payments with a fixed fee.
• Access 24/7 emergency assistance through the Global Assist® Hotline when traveling over 100 miles from home. Third-party service costs are your responsibility.
• Utilize car rental loss and damage insurance coverage.
• Benefit from Amex Offers for rewards on shopping, dining, travel, and more at select locations.
• Terms Apply.

All information about the American Express Cash Magnet Card has been collected independently by Moneygeek.com. The American Express Cash Magnet Card is no longer available through Moneygeek.com.

The Citi Double Cash is one of the best cards for straightforward cash back. It lets you earn 2% cash back on all purchases—1% when you buy and 1% when you pay—without an annual fee.

• Introductory Offers
  • Enjoy a 0% introductory APR on balance transfers for 18 months. After this period, the APR will range from 18.49% to 28.49%, depending on your creditworthiness.
  • Earn 20,000 ThankYou Points, equivalent to $200 cash back, after spending $1,500 within the first six months.
• Rewards
  • Earn 2% cash back on every purchase: 1% when you buy and an additional 1% when you pay off the purchase.
  • Earn 5% cash back on hotel, car rentals, and attractions booked through the Citi Travel portal until December 31, 2025.
• APRs, Fees, and Penalties
  • Balance transfers do not earn cash back.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on purchases unless the entire balance, including transfers, is paid by the due date each month.
  • There is an introductory balance transfer fee of 3% (minimum $5) for transfers made within the first four months. After that, the fee is 5% (minimum $5).

The Petal® 1 card shines as a hassle-free financial companion, especially for those on their credit-building journey. With no annual or foreign transaction fees, it's wallet-friendly both at home and abroad. The card's highlight is its ability to gauge your eligibility without the standard credit scrutiny, making the approval process less intimidating. It diligently reports to major credit bureaus, fortifying your credit-building efforts. While it has an elevated APR and rewards are merchant-specific, its features cater to those aiming for financial growth, and the supporting app ensures you stay on top of your game.

• Enjoy no annual fee.
• APR ranges from 25.24% to 34.74% (variable).
• Credit limits range from $300 to $5,000.
• Potential for a credit limit boost in just six months.
• Earn between 2% and 10% cash back with certain retailers.
• Check for pre-approval quickly without affecting your credit.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Use Petal's app to manage funds, monitor expenses and set up automatic payments.
• Reports to all three major credit bureaus.
• Enjoy swift, secure payments with the card’s contactless technology.

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card delivers with unlimited 2% cash back, a $200 welcome bonus after $500 spent in three months, and no annual fee. Designed for seamless everyday rewards, it also includes a 12-month 0% intro APR, though its 3% foreign transaction fee may deter international travelers.

Introductory Offers

• Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 within the first three months.
• Enjoy a 0% intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers for 12 months from account opening. After that, a variable APR of 19.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% applies.

Rewards

• Unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases.
• No categories to track and cash rewards do not expire as long as your account remains open.

APRs, Fees, and Penalties

• Balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and a 3% fee. After that, a balance transfer fee of up to 5% (minimum $5) applies.
• No annual fee.

Perks & Benefits

• Enjoy a premium collection of benefits at prestigious hotel properties with Visa Signature Concierge.
• Earn up to $600 in cell phone protection against damage or theft when you pay your monthly cell phone bill with your eligible Wells Fargo card, subject to a $25 deductible.

We recommend the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards for Students credit card for students who wish to earn higher-than-usual cash back without paying any annual fees. You also stand to earn a $200 cash rewards bonus if you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days.

This practical card offers 3% cash back on a category of your choice and 2% cash back at wholesale clubs and grocery stores on up to $2,500 in combined purchases every quarter. All other purchases come with 1% cash back. This card also lets you monitor your credit by allowing you to view your updated FICO Score for free each month, giving you financial peace of mind.

An introductory 0% APR offer applies on purchases and balance transfers for the first 18 billing cycles, then a variable APR of 18.74% - 28.74% applies. Remember that balance transfers come with fees, and using this card outside of the U.S. might not be in your best interest as it charges foreign transaction fees.

• Earn a 3% cash back on a category of your choice, including gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drug stores or home improvement/furnishings
• Earn a 2% cash back on grocery and wholesale purchases
• Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
• Earn an online cash reward worth $200 on spending $1000 within three months of account opening
• Offers an introductory APR of 0% for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers within 60 days
• Offers a $0 annual fee
• Access your FICO scores through mobile app or online banking