The Best Credit Cards for Back-to-School Shopping

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Sales tax exemptions are great, but they only go so far, and not all states have them.

A solid cash back credit card, on the other hand, is available everywhere and useful whether school is in session or not.

So while you’re stocking up on essential school supplies, take a moment to see if you could save more.

Check out these great card deals and see if any succeed.

Citi Double Cash

Why we love it: We called it “The Best Cash Back Credit Card for Everyday Use” because it earns 1% cash back on every purchase and then an additional 1% cash back when you pay for those purchases. If you want peace of mind that you’re earning great cash rewards on everything, with no gimmicks or expiration dates, this is your card.

Plus, for a limited time, you can earn points worth $200 in cash back when you make purchases of $1,500 during your first six months as a cardholder.

What there is to know:

Town
  • $200 cash back when you spend $1,500 on purchases within the first six months of account opening.
  • Get a total of 2% cash back on every purchase.
  • No limits or caps on cashback.
  • No confusing categories; everything makes money.
  • No annual fee.

To note: This card offers 18 months 0% initial APR on balance transfers.

U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card

Why we love it: 5% discount exactly where you want it? Try to beat that. Plus, there’s a $200 introductory offer when you spend $1,000 on qualifying purchases within the first four months of card membership.

What there is to know:

U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card
American bank
  • $200 introductory bonus after spending $1,000 on qualifying purchases within 120 days of opening your account.
  • 5% cash back in two categories you choose each quarter, on a maximum of $2,000 in total qualifying purchases.
  • 5% cash back on travel bookings made through the Rewards Travel Center.
  • 2% cash back on an everyday categoryincluding gas, groceries or restaurants.
  • 1% cash back on all other qualifying purchases.
  • No annual fee.

To note: This card has a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months.

Hunting Freedom Flex

Why we love it: The Chase Freedom Flex Card offers solid cash rewards in multiple categories and accelerates your rewards in seasonal bonus categories. You get an introductory APR offer of 0% on purchases for 15 months, and earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months with the card. It’s a solid card on its own, but also pairs well with Chase Freedom Unlimited rewards.

What there is to know:

Hunting Freedom Flex
Hunt
  • 5% cash back on travel-related purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards, including hotels, flights, car rentals and cruises.
  • 5% cash back on purchases in seasonal bonus categories, up to $1,500 per quarter.
  • 3% cash back on dining in restaurants (including eligible takeout and delivery).
  • 3% Cash Back on Pharmacy purchases.
  • 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No annual fee.

Citi Personalized Money

Why we love it: You get 5% cash back in the category in which you spend the most, which can vary from month to month without any effort on your part; no category rotation or card juggling is required. Eligible categories include restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacies, home improvement stores, fitness clubs, live entertainment, and some travel and public transportation.

What there is to know:

Citi Personalized Money
Town
  • Get $200 Cash Back after spending $750 on purchases in the first three months.
  • Earn 5% Cash Back in your main eligible spend category up to $500 per month, with 1% cash back after that.
  • 1% Unlimited Cash Back on all other purchases.
  • 0% introductory APR on purchases for 15 months.
  • 0% Introductory APR on Balance Transfers for 15 months.
  • No annual fee.

To note: Cash Back rewards appear as Thank You Points, which can be redeemed for cash, gift cards, Amazon purchases, or travel rewards.

Everything you need in a credit card, whether it’s balance transfer, rewards points, cash back or low interest, you can find it with our credit card finder. Click here to find the plastic that best suits your needs.

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