What is a cashback credit card?
A cashback credit card, as the name suggests, rewards cardholders by giving them a certain percentage of the spending on the card back. This means, in theory, the more you spend on the card, the more you will receive as a lump sum into your account, either monthly or annually. If you use the card for your day-to-day spending, don't overspend and pay the balance off in full each month so you don't have to pay any interest, a cashback credit card can be a good way of earning a bonus from your normal spending.
Cashback deals have become less generous over recent years and these cards also often charge an annual fee, which means it is important to shop around to find one that offers good value. It's also worth noting there is no guarantee the card you take out will maintain the cashback rate it initially offers. Indeed, many credit card companies, including American Express, have started to cut their cashback rates.
Which are the best cashback credit cards? - September 2023
Below we highlight our current favourite cashback credit cards in the UK. We assess the cards based not only on any introductory cashback offers, but also on the ongoing cashback rate. We also look at other factors, including any annual fee on the card, the APR and any other perks or benefits.
| Card name | APR | Annual fee | Cashback rate | Cashback on annual spend of £5,000 |
| 36.3% variable | £25 | 5% (up to £125) in the first three months.
Ongoing rate of 0.75% up to £10,000 per year, 1.25% over £10,000. You'll need to spend a minimum of £3,000 per year in order to qualify for the cashback. |
£37.50 (after introductory offer) | |
| 30.7% variable | £0 | 5% (up to £100) in the first three months.
Ongoing rate of 0.5% up to £10,000 per year, 1% over £10,000. You'll need to spend a minimum of £3,000 per year in order to qualify for the cashback. |
£25 (after introductory offer) | |
| 27.7% variable | £36 (£3 per month) | 0.5% | £25 | |
| 27.9% variable | £0 | 0.25% | £12.50 | |
| 23.9% variable | £0 | 0.25% | £12.50 |
List of best UK cashback credit cards
American Express Platinum Cashback Credit Card
- Cashback offer: 5% cashback on purchases (up to £125) in the first three months. The ongoing cashback rate is 0.75% on spending up to £10,000 per year and 1.25% over £10,000. Minimum spend of £3,000 per year in order to qualify for cashback.
- Representative APR: 36.3% variable
- Annual fee: £25
- Why we like it: Those who regularly spend over £10,000 on a credit card each year would likely be better off paying the £25 annual fee for the American Express Cashback Credit Card, rather than its fee-free 'Everyday' counterpart.
American Express Platinum Cashback Everyday
- Cashback offer: 5% cashback on purchases (up to £100) in the first three months. The ongoing cashback rate is 0.5% on spending up to £10,000 per year and 1% over £10,000. Minimum spend of £3,000 per year in order to qualify for cashback.
- Representative APR: 30.7% variable
- Annual fee: £0
- Why we like it: Even though the cashback rate has become less generous - previously, 1% was offered on spend over £5,000 per year - it is still one of the most competitive cards on the market. The bonus with this card compared with others in the Amex stable is there is no annual fee.
- Cashback offer: 0.5% cashback on all purchases
- Representative APR: 27.7% variable
- Annual fee: £36 (£3 per month)
- Why we like it: With 15 months interest free on balance transfers and 15 months on purchases, as well as no foreign transaction fees on purchases in local currency, there is a lot to like about this card, not just the cashback.
- Cashback offer: 0.25% cashback on purchases
- Representative APR: 27.9% variable
- Annual fee: £0
- Why we like it: As well as the cashback, cardholders are also eligible for free Apple subscriptions.
- Cashback offer: 0.25% cashback on purchases
- Representative APR: 23.9% variable
- Annual fee: £0
- Why we like it: Unlike some cards, if you are accepted for this card, you are guaranteed to get the advertised APR
When is cashback paid?
Whether you are paid your cashback monthly or annually will depend on the individual card company, so it is worth checking the terms and conditions before you take out the card. The amount due will be based on your total spending on the card, minus any items that have been returned and the money refunded back onto the card.
How to make the most of your cashback credit card
A cashback credit card only really works if you view it as a nice, additional bonus on the spending you would have done anyway. Spending money in order to boost your cashback can quickly lead to overspending and accumulating unnecessary debt. That said, prudent use of a cashback card can be enhanced by:
Using the cashback card for all your daily spending
By opting to use your cashback card for all of your day-to-day spending, including groceries, fuel and online shopping, rather than cash, debit card or alternative credit card, you can maximise the cashback you'll receive. The added benefit of using your cashback card rather than cash or a debit card is the fact you'll also receive section 75 protection on purchases over £100. For more details on section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, read our explainer.
Add additional cards to your account
Some credit card companies provide complimentary additional cards to your account, which can be used, for example, by your partner or child over the age of 18. All of their spending will be added to your cashback calculation, boosting the total amount you'll receive. Keep in mind you will be responsible for the spending on the card, making the repayments and ensuring all cards on the account stay within the agreed credit limit.
Make a note of bonus days
Some providers will offer days throughout the year where they will increase the cashback rate for a limited period. American Express, for example, has a Shop Small initiative, which encourages cardholders to shop in participating small retailers. This sometimes includes days or weeks where you can earn extra cashback or other rewards. By diarising when these days are going to happen and waiting until then to do your shopping, you can make the most of the cashback offer.
Advantages of cashback credit cards
- You can earn money as you spend, which is great for essential day-to-day purchases
- Some cards offer other perks in addition to the cashback, including interest-free periods on balance transfers or purchases
- As well as cashback, you may be able to access discounts at certain retailers, priority access to tickets for gigs and concerts or discounts on events
Disadvantages of cashback credit cards
- Cashback cards often attract an annual fee, which offsets some of the cashback you receive
- These cards can encourage additional spending if you're not careful. If you don't pay it off in full each month, you can quite quickly and easily spiral into debt
- The cashback deals can be cut and, indeed, this is something that has happened more frequently in recent years
Alternatives to cashback credit cards
If you are loyal to a particular retailer, a rewards credit card may be a better choice for you. They tend to offer points on spending on the card, which can then be redeemed as a voucher. For our top picks of rewards credit cards, read our article "Compare the best cashback and reward credit cards".
In addition to cashback credit cards, there are also dedicated cashback websites, such as TopCashback*, which pass on commission from retailers on the spending you do. This can include fashion and homeware, but also mobile phones, home insurance and car hire. You can also opt to raise money for good causes through your spending with sites such as easyfundraising.
Is a cashback credit card right for me?
Cashback credit cards tend to only be available to those with a good credit history, so if you have a chequered financial history and an impaired credit score, you may not be accepted. It's wise to use an online eligibility checker before completing a full application as this will give you a good idea of whether you are likely to be approved for the card, without it leaving a hard footprint on your credit file.
If you are accepted, provided you use the card responsibly and pay the balance off in full each month, cashback credit cards provide an easy way to earn money back on your spending.
If a link has an * beside it this means that it is an affiliated link. If you go via the link, Money to the Masses may receive a small fee which helps keep Money to the Masses free to use. The following link can be used if you do not wish to help Money to the Masses or take advantage of any exclusive offers - TopCashback
