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The 8 Best Credit Cards for Couples – Married or Not Married [March 2024]

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What To Look For in a Credit Card for Couples (Married or Not Married)

Card summary, american express ® gold card (staff favorite – best for earning travel points at restaurants & u.s. supermarkets), blue cash preferred ® card from american express (best for cash-back at u.s. supermarkets, u.s. gas stations & u.s. streaming services), the platinum card ® from american express (best for airport lounge access, statement credits, premium perks), chase sapphire preferred ® card (best travel card for sub-$100 annual fee), citi premier ® card (good for bonus points), chase sapphire reserve ®  (great premium travel card for domestic travel), capital one venture x rewards credit card (best capital one card), blue cash everyday ® card from american express (great no-annual-fee card for cash-back), final thoughts.

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While many couples maintain separate finances, a solid couples credit card strategy has the potential to unlock much more value in rewards and make award travel planning much easier than working independently.

So whether you’re looking at booking luxury travel together or focusing on cash-back, it pays to have a fit-for-purpose credit card with your significant other.

Let’s take a look at what factors you should focus on in a credit card for couples.

The days of applying jointly for credit cards are gone, for the most part.

While some banks still permit these types of applications for some credit cards, joint applications are generally limited to smaller, regional banks.

With separate applications for most cards, the most common practice is to follow one of these Player 1/Player 2 strategies:

• Apply for a credit card and add your significant other as an authorized user
• Have each person apply for his/her own card

Both of these options have their merits, but the short of it is if you opt for #2, you will be eligible for twice as many bonuses (at the added cost of paying for twice as many annual fees).

We generally recommend option #2 to maximize rewards in 2-player mode.

Let’s take a look at our complete list of the best credit cards for couples.

The 8 Best Credit Cards for Couples

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

The American Express ® Gold Card  is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

• 4x points per dollar at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
• 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases; and 1x thereafter
• $250 annual fee (see rates and fees )
• No lounge access
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards ® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards ® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards ® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express ® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
• Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $250.
• Terms Apply.
• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None
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American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip:  Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 90,000 points with the Amex Gold card. The current public offer is 60,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

The Amex Gold card is our favorite card for couples due to its second-to-none points multipliers, an enticing welcome bonus, and ongoing perks!

The most alluring aspect of the Amex Gold card is the ability to earn big rewards from the bonus categories:

• Earn 4x points at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; 1x thereafter)
• Earn 3x points on flights booked directly with the airline or through AmexTravel.com
• Earn 1x point on all other purchases

On top of that, you will get up to $120 per year in dining statement credits at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar, and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.

Also, get up to $120 in Uber Cash every year ($10 per month) usable on Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S.

The Amex Gold card gets you access to The Hotel Collection , plus baggage insurance, secondary rental car insurance , and more. Shopping perks include purchase protection, extended warranty, access to Amex Offers , and a complimentary ShopRunner membership upon enrollment.

This card has no preset spending limit, no foreign transaction fees, and up to 5 additional cards for no annual fee ( rates & fees ).

Why We Like Earning American Express Membership Rewards Points

We are die-hard supporters of Amex Membership Rewards , which is American Express’ proprietary points system.

Because of how useful Amex points are, we value them at 2.2 cents each, meaning you would get a return on spend of 8.8% if you earn 4x points and 6.6% if you earn 3x points, which is absolutely phenomenal.

The best way to maximize points value is to use the American Express transfer partners to book business and first class flights .

But if you’re looking for other ways to use your points, you can redeem them for cash-back, charitable donations , gift cards, Pay With Points for travel bookings via AmexTravel.com, statement credits, and more.

Bottom Line: Whether you’re planning a date night or booking an upscale hotel stay, the Amex Gold card is our favorite card for couples to use!

This card is great for those who want to earn cash-back with U.S. supermarkets, U.S. streaming subscriptions, transit, and U.S. gas stations.

The Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express is a stellar cash-back credit card for those looking to maximize every purchase they make.

With bonus categories like U.S. supermarkets, select streaming services, U.S. gas stations, and transit purchases , this card rewards you for the items you spend the most on in a big way! For those looking to earn up to 6% cash-back on their purchases , this could be the card for you!

• 6% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year) and on select streaming services
• 6% cash-back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee ( rates and fees )
• Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It ® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
• Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.
• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
• 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Get up to $120 in statement credits annually when you pay for an auto-renewing subscription to Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com with your Blue Cash Preferred ® Card. That’s $10 in statement credits each month. Enrollment required.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Preferred ® Card. Enrollment required.
• APR: 19.24%-29.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.
• Cash Back Credit Cards

Redeem cash-back through your American Express account

The Amex Blue Cash Preferred card is American Express’s flagship cash back credit card . This credit card boasts some of the highest cash-back rewards in the business designed to help you save big on everyday expenses.

To start off, this card earns you a solid welcome bonus — also, get up to 6% cash-back :

• 6% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (1% after that) and on  select U.S. streaming subscriptions
• 3% cash-back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (includes taxis, rideshares, parking, tolls, trains, buses, and more)
• 1% cash-back on other purchases

What you’ll notice is that this credit card offers amazing cash-back rewards for couples who generally spend most of their money on in-home entertainment (streaming), groceries for eating in (U.S. supermarkets), and commuting (U.S. gas stations and transit).

So if you’re a big saver who primarily goes to work, cooks at home, and stays indoors, then this card is a massive boon for you.

In addition, this credit card gets you a monthly $10 Equinox credit , fraud protection, secondary rental car insurance, and return protection.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card  is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access , hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• $695 annual fee ( rates and fees )
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card ® , Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts ® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card ® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card ® . Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Up Benefits are excluded.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card ® .
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back in statement credits per calendar year on an Equinox membership, or an Equinox club membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . Enrollment required. Visit https://platinum.equinox.com/ to enroll.
• $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR Plus at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Platinum Card ® . Learn more.
• $100 Global Entry Credit: Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck ® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card ® . Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card ® . That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit: Get a $300 statement credit for the purchase of a SoulCycle at-home bike with your Platinum Card ® . An Equinox+ subscription is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. Enrollment Required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card ® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.

Hot Tip:  Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

The Amex Platinum card is a legendary card, perhaps most associated with prestige and luxury travel. And that’s exactly what you’ll get with this card.

You’ll earn 5x Membership Rewards points for flights booked directly with airlines or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per calendar year) and on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com.

Now, let’s get into the immense list of travel and lifestyle benefits:

• Access to Amex’s Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection
• Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status upon enrollment
• Avis Preferred Club, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, and National Emerald Club Executive privileges
• Amex International Airline Program for flight deals
• Travel insurance , including trip interruption and cancellation insurance, trip delay coverage, lost/stolen/damaged baggage reimbursement, emergency evacuation, and secondary rental car coverage
• Access to Amex Offers

Statement credits include an airline fee credit of up to $200, up to $200 prepaid hotel credit on eligible stays, $189 in CLEAR Plus credit , a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit, up to $100 in Saks Fifth Avenue credits (2 credits of up to $50 semi-annually), up to $300 in Equinox credits , up to $200 in Uber Cash credit , up to $155 in Walmart+ credits , and up to $240 in digital entertainment credits .

Hot Tip: Enrollment may be required for select benefits , so get the most from your card by ensuring that you’ve explored your American Express account.

This card also has purchase protection, extended warranty, cell phone protection , zero liability fraud protection, and no foreign transaction fees ( rates & fees ).

A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred ® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance . With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

• 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
• $95 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel SM .
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel SM , 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel SM . For example, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC
• APR: 21.49%-28.49% Variable

Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is one of the best credit cards available and our favorite beginner rewards credit card.

Indeed, this card earns solid rewards, has fantastic benefits (like the $50 annual credit on hotel stays booked through the Chase Travel portal ), and is easy to understand!

To hit the ground running, the magnificent welcome bonus will turbocharge your points earned — you’ll also earn up to 5x points :

• 5x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
• 5x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 (through March 31, 2025)
• 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
• 2x points on all other travel  worldwide
• 1x point everywhere else

Why We Like Earning Chase Ultimate Rewards Points

Chase Ultimate Rewards points are among the most valuable — worth around 2 cents per point by our valuations. So earning 5x, 2x, and 1x points is equal to a 10%, 4%, and 2% return on spend, respectively.

You can use your Ultimate Rewards points for gift cards, cash-back , statement credits, Amazon purchases, travel booked through Chase Travel, and Pay Yourself Back .

But what makes this points system so valuable is the fact that you can transfer points to the Chase airline and hotel partners for luxury travel !

Frequent flyers will enjoy 3x ThankYou Points at restaurants, gas stations, supermarkets, air travel, and hotels.

The Citi Premier ® Card is an excellent option for anyone looking for an all-around travel rewards credit card. The card helps you earn points fast with great 3x bonus categories such as restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotels. Plus, it offers access to airline and hotel transfer partners, doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, and has a reasonable annual fee!

• 3x points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotel purchases
• Access to Citi transfer partners
• $95 annual fee
• Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou ® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou ® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024.
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Other Hotels
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Annual Hotel Savings Benefit
• 60,000 ThankYou ® Points are redeemable for $600 in gift cards redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
• APR: 21.24% - 29.24% Variable

Citi ThankYou Rewards

The Citi Premier card offers incredible travel rewards. If you’re looking to rack up a ton of points and don’t have much of an eye for travel benefits such as insurance and lounge access, this is the best choice for you and your partner.

In addition to an eye-opening welcome bonus, you’ll earn:

• 3x points on air travel, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and at gas stations
• 1x point per $1 spent everywhere else

Other perks include the $100 annual hotel savings benefit , which gets you $100 off of a single hotel stay of $500 or more, excluding taxes and fees, when booked through thankyou.com or over the phone at 800-THANK-YOU (once per calendar year).

You can also enjoy benefits from World Elite Mastercard, Citi Concierge, and Citi Entertainment, plus purchase protection, extended warranty, and zero liability fraud protection. This card has no foreign transaction fee and no annual fees for authorized users .

Why We Like Earning Citi ThankYou Rewards Points

Citi ThankYou Rewards is an underrated points program — a flexible rewards currency by nature, there are many ways you can spend your points!

We value Citi ThankYou Points at around 1.6 cents per point, so earning 3x or 1x points is equivalent to getting a 4.8% or 1.6% return on spending, respectively.

The best way to achieve top-notch value is to transfer your points to airline partners for incredible flight redemptions such as  Emirates first class or Lufthansa first class .

Other ways to redeem your Citi ThankYou Rewards Points include booking travel via the Citi ThankYou travel portal , cash-back, gift cards, Sears Shop Your Way transfers, and merchandise.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access , with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel SM .
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel SM  immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel SM . For example, 75,000 points are worth $1125 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass TM  Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck ®
• APR: 22.49%-29.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: $0

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is one of our favorite credit cards for couples and young adults, particularly those that eat out often, travel a lot, and use Lyft.

Looking at this card, there’s an awesome welcome bonus to incentivize you to sign up for this card, in addition to all-around solid earning categories of up to 10x points :

• 10x points on car rentals, hotels, and dining booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 (through March 31, 2025)
• 5x points on airfare booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 3x points on all other travel and dining purchases
• 1x points on all other purchases

Your 10x, 3x, 5x, and 1x Ultimate Rewards points are worth an approximate return on spending of 20%, 10%, 6%, and 2%, respectively.

Plus, the best benefit is $300 annual in travel credits every card anniversary year!

In addition, this card entitles you to the following extra benefits:

• Priority Pass Select membership (activation required)
• Complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership (activate by December 31, 2024)
• $5 monthly DoorDash credit
• Access to the Chase Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection
• Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fee credit every 4 years

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card comes with no foreign transaction fees and offers the best travel insurance on a credit card, including primary car rental insurance , trip cancellation and interruption coverage, trip delay reimbursement, baggage delay reimbursement, lost luggage insurance,  roadside assistance , emergency evacuation and transportation, emergency medical and dental coverage, travel accident insurance, and more.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per $1 on flights purchased through Capital One Travel
• $395 annual fee ( rates & fees )
• Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status
• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck ®
• APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Capital One Miles

The Capital One Venture X card is Capital One’s premium rewards credit card, offering the ability to get cash-back rewards or luxury travel bookings depending on your preference!

Earn up to 10x Capital One miles per dollar spent in the following categories:

• 10x miles on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles on flights purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles on all other purchases

This credit card has a large welcome bonus, up to  $300 annual travel credit on bookings made through Capital One Travel, 10,000 bonus miles on your account anniversary every year, access to Capital One Lounges and Plaza Premium Lounges , a Priority Pass Select membership, Hertz President’s Circle status, up to $100 Global Entry or TSA Precheck application fee credit, and no foreign transaction fees ( rates & fees ).

If you add your significant other as an authorized user , that individual will get access to Capital One Lounges and Plaza Premium Lounges, their own complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, Hertz President’s Circle status, and more.

You’ll get terrific travel coverage , ranging from roadside dispatch to lost luggage reimbursement, and travel assistance services.

Lastly, make use of the purchase security, extended warranty, zero fraud liability on unauthorized charges, cell phone insurance , and access to Capital One Miles.

Why We Like Earning Capital One Miles

Capital One Miles is one of the newest flexible rewards points programs, which we value at around 1.8 cents per mile. When earning 2x miles per $1 spent, that’s equal to a return on spending of around 3.6%.

While most of Capital One’s transfer ratios are 1:1, there are 2 transfer partners that have a 2:1 (Accor) or 2:1.5 (EVA Air) ratio, which can explain why these miles are less valuable than Amex Membership Rewards points or Chase Ultimate Rewards points.

Nonetheless, it’s feasible to achieve amazing value by booking business and first class flights !

This cash-back card offers a capped 3% at U.S. supermarkets, 3% at U.S. gas stations, and 3% on U.S. online retail purchases!

When it comes to cash-back credit cards, there are dozens of options to choose from. So what sets the Blue Cash Everyday ® Card from American Express  apart from the rest?

This card is excellent at earning cash-back on your everyday purchases at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and on U.S. online retail purchases. So if you regularly spend money on everyday purchases, this could be the perfect card to add to your wallet.

• 3% back on purchases at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
• 3% back on purchases at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
• Rewards are not flexible and can only be redeemed for cash-back. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• No Annual Fee.
• Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday ® Card. Enrollment required.
• Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday ® Card.
• APR: 19.24%-29.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 15 months
• No Annual Fee Cards

Our last credit card is the Amex Blue Cash Everyday card. If you are totally averse to the idea of an annual fee and only want cash-back rewards, the Amex Blue Cash Everyday card is the best option for you.

You’ll earn a decent welcome bonus and enjoy up to 3% cash-back as follows:

• 3% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, 1% after that)
• 3% cash-back at U.S. gas stations (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, 1% after that)
• 3% cash-back at U.S. online retailers (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, 1% after that)
• 1% cash-back on everything else

Every month, you’ll enjoy 2 sets of statement credits:

• $7 back per month after spending $9.99 or more each month on The Disney Bundle
• $15 per month at Home Chef

This amounts to a maximum of $264 per year in statement credits, which is fantastic.

You’ll even get purchase protection, fraud protection, secondary rental car coverage, access to the Global Assist hotline, and access to American Express Experiences.

All in all, your focus should be to find the best all-around rewards credit card for your situation. Try to earn the most valuable points by following the points programs of Chase, Amex, Citi, and Capital One.

Leverage your spending habits (and those of your partner) to rack up points using the right credit card. But if you’re looking for cash-back, there are options for you, too.

The next step is to go ahead and open that shiny new credit card you’ve been eyeing!

For the baggage insurance plan benefit of the American Express ® Gold Card, and The Platinum Card ® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the Car Rental Loss & Damage Insurance benefit of the American Express ® Gold Card, Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express, The Platinum Card ® from American Express, and the Blue Cash Everyday ® Card from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

For the purchase protection benefit of the American Express ® Gold Card, The Platinum Card ® from American Express, and the Blue Cash Everyday ® Card from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the extended warranty benefit of the American Express ® Gold Card, and The Platinum Card ® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the return protection benefit of the Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

For the Trip Delay Insurance, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance benefit of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For the global assist benefit of the Blue Cash Everyday ® Card from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.

For the Hertz benefit on Capital One products, enrollment is required through Capital One website or mobile app. Upon enrollment, eligible cardholders will remain at upgraded status level through December 31, 2024.  Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier.  Additional terms apply.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa ® or Mastercard ® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

For rates and fees of the American Express ® Gold Card, click  here . For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Everyday ® from American Express, click  here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can couples get a joint credit card.

In general, you can no longer apply for a joint credit card. While joint credit card applications were possible in the past, most cards today only allow 1 primary cardholder responsible for paying off bills. You may add authorized users to your card, which allows your partner to use the account.

What credit cards allow joint applicants?

Most issuers do not allow joint applicants, but a few regional banks still do, at least for some credit card products.

Will adding my spouse to my credit card affect their credit?

Yes, it may benefit them or it may hurt them — it depends on the underlying history of the credit card. If a credit card has a negative history with lots of missed payments or irresponsible credit behavior, it will probably hurt their credit. On the other hand, if the card has a long and perfect payment history, their credit will probably improve.

Can my spouse and I apply for the same credit card?

Yes, you can, almost all of the time! You both can generally qualify for your own welcome bonuses, too, doubling up your rewards.

Is it better to apply for a credit card jointly or separately?

It’s generally better to apply separately. That way, each person can access their own welcome bonus, and you can maximize your rewards there.

How many credit cards should a couple have?

There’s no hard and fast rule. However, having 2 or 3 per person is generally a good idea to maximize rewards, bonus categories, and benefits.

What are the best credit cards for couples?

The best credit cards for couples are the Amex Gold card, Chase Sapphire Preferred card, Amex Blue Cash Preferred card, Citi Premier card, Amex Platinum card, Chase Sapphire Reserve card, Capital One Venture X card, and Amex Blue Cash Everyday card.

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Find the best credit card for you

Here are the 5 best credit cards for couples — married or not, some cards have valuable benefits that also apply to authorized users, such as airport lounge access..

Deciding whether to set up a joint bank account and how to split shared bills aren't the only decisions to make when you're figuring out how to manage your finances with a significant other. You can also share a credit card account , which allows you to share rewards and benefits. However, the primary account holder is fully responsible for all charges authorized users make.

Below, CNBC Select shares the best credit cards for couples in a variety of categories, including travel credit cards and credit cards that are easy to get .

Best couples credit cards

• Best for groceries : Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
• Best for cash back : Citi Double Cash® Card
• Best for building credit : Discover it® Secured Credit Card
• Best for travel : Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees )
• Best for intro 0%-APR : Wells Fargo Reflect® Card

Best for groceries

Blue cash preferred® card from american express.

6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations, 3% cash back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.

Welcome bonus

Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 6 months. 

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

0% for 12 months on purchases from the date of account opening

Regular APR

19.24% - 29.99% variable. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.

Balance transfer fee

Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Excellent/Good

See rates and fees , terms apply.

• High 6% cash back at U.S. supermarket spending (up to $6,000 a year, then 1%)
• Unlimited 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
• Unlimited 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit
• 2.7% fee on purchases made abroad
• Estimated rewards earned after 1 year: $679
• Estimated rewards earned after 5 years: $2,397

Rewards totals incorporate the cash back earned from the welcome bonus

Who's this for? The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express may be helpful if groceries are a significant expense for you and your partner.

Standout benefit : The Blue Cash Preferred card earns 6% back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 in purchases per calendar year (then 1% back). That means you could earn 6% back on an average of $500 a month in grocery purchases.

[ Jump to more details ]

Best for cash back

Citi double cash® card.

Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24

Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

0% for the first 18 months on balance transfers; N/A for purchases

19.24% - 29.24% variable

For balance transfers completed within 4 months of account opening, an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer ($5 minimum) applies; after that, a balance transfer fee of 5% of each transfer ($5 minimum) applies

Fair/Good/Excellent

Read our Citi Double Cash® Card review.

• 2% cash back on all eligible purchases
• Simple cash-back program that doesn't require activation or spending caps
• One of the longest intro periods for balance transfers at 18 months
• 3% fee charged on purchases made outside the U.S.
• Estimated rewards earned after 1 year:  $443
• Estimated rewards earned after 5 years: $2,213

Who's this for? The Citi Double Cash® Card is a great fit for couples who want to maximize the cash back they earn without the hassle of a complicated rewards structure.

Standout benefit : The Citi Double Cash earns at least 2% back on every purchase. You'll get 1% back when you make a purchase and an additional 1% back when you pay for those purchases. This unlimited cash back is hard to beat outside of other cards' special bonus categories or capped bonus spending.

Best for building credit

Discover it® secured credit card.

Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Plus earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Discover will match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year

N/A on purchases

28.24% Variable

3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*

New / Rebuilding

*See rates and fees , terms apply.

Read our Discover it® Secured Credit Card review.

• Cash-back program
• Generous welcome bonus
• Starting at seven months from account opening, Discover will automatically review your credit card account to see if you can transition to an unsecured line of credit and return your deposit
• Cash-back program limits earnings: 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, then 1%
• Low credit line prevents cardholders from charging high-cost items or many expenses

Who's this for? The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is an ideal fit for couples who are building their credit because it's available to anyone with a limited credit history or a bad credit score .

Standout benefit : Discover will match the cash back you earn for the first year and you'll earn 2% back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. The card also offers the ability to transition to an unsecured card starting seven months from account opening.

Best for travel

Capital one venture x rewards credit card.

Unlimited 2X miles on all eligible purchases, and 5 Miles per dollar on flights and 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars when booked via Capital One Travel portal

Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening

19.99% - 29.99% variable APR

$0 at the Transfer APR, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer to you

Foreign transaction fees

Read our Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card review.

• Large welcome bonus
• No foreign transaction fees
• Up to $100 statement credits for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• High annual fee
• No introductory 0% APR period

Who's this for? The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is an excellent choice for couples who travel frequently and want to enjoy a long list of luxury benefits, both when traveling together and solo.

Standout benefit : The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card stands out for its airport lounge access benefits , which include generous guesting privileges. Best of all, you can add authorized users for no additional fee, and additional card members receive the same lounge access benefits (see rates and fees ). Shared cardholder benefits include an up to $300 annual Capital One Travel credit to use toward purchases made through Capital One Travel and a 10,000-mile bonus on each account anniversary (worth at least $100 for travel).

Best for intro 0%-APR

Wells fargo reflect® card.

0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers.

18.24%, 24.74%, or 29.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

5%, min: $5

• No annual fee
• Long introductory APR period on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
• Access to Visa Signature® Concierge
• Get up to $600 cell phone protection (subject to a $25 deductible)
• Access to My Wells Fargo Deals to earn cash back in the form of an account credit when shopping, dining
• No welcome bonus
• 3% fee charged on foreign transactions

Who's this for? The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card is great for those who need more time to pay off their debt as it has one of the longest 0%-intro APR periods of any card, and the intro APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers .

Standout benefit : Cardholders receive an introductory 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for 21 months, after that an 18.24%, 24.74% or 29.99% variable APR applies. For a balance transfer to qualify for the intro APR, it must be made within 120 days from account opening, and a balance transfer fee of 5% of the amount transferred applies ($5 minimum).

More on our best credit cards for couples

Anyone who loves earning bonus cashback on common everyday purchases should take a look at the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express .

• 6% back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1% back)
• 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
• 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations
• 3% cash back on transit
• 1% cash back on other purchases

Earn a $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 on purchases with your new card within the first six months of account opening. 

$0 annual fee the first year, then $95 (see rates and fees )

Notable benefits

Cardholders can receive up to $120 in annual Equinox+ statement credits ($10 a month) and up to $84 a year in Disney Bundle credit ($7 back a month after spending $9.99 or more each month). Cardholders can also take advantage of return protection on eligible purchases.

[ Return to card summary ]

The Citi Double Cash® Card is a powerful no-annual-fee cash-back card with a solid welcome bonus and a top-tier rate of return on everyday purchases .

• Earn 2% back on every purchase (1% back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases)
• Earn 5% total cash back on hotels, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel site through Dec. 31, 2024.

Earn $200 cash back after spending $1,500 on purchases in the first six months of account opening.

Cardmembers can save on interest with a 0%-intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers. After that, the variable 19.24% - 29.24% APR applies, based on your creditworthiness. There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of the amount you transfer (minimum $5) within the first four months of account opening. After that, the balance transfer fee is 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).

The cashback you earn with this card is awarded as Citi ThankYou® Points . Each point is worth one cent per point for cash back (checks, direct deposits,  statement credits ) and other redemptions, such as gift cards. However, you'll also have access to a limited number of Citi transfer partners , including JetBlue, Choice Hotels and Wyndham Hotels. If you  pair this card  with the  Citi Premier® Card  (see  rates and fees ), you'll unlock access to even more transfer partners, including Turkish Airlines, Avianca and Singapore Airlines.

The Discover it® Secured Credit Card allows you to rewards as you improve your credit score and offers a clear path to upgrade to an unsecured card. You'll need to make a refundable deposit to open it and you can increase your credit limit by making a larger deposit.

• 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter
• 1% cash back on all other purchases

Discover will match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year, and there is no limit to the amount of cash back you can earn from this offer.

Compared to unsecured credit cards, secured credit cards typically lack robust rewards or valuable welcome bonuses , but that's not the case with the Discover it Secured card . This card stands out for offering rewards and charging no foreign transaction fees .

It requires a $200 minimum security deposit upon account opening, but after seven months, there's an automatic review to see if you can be moved to an unsecured card, at which point your deposit will be returned.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a  premium credit card  at a surprisingly lower price point than other high-end cards with luxury benefits.

• 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel
• 5X miles on flights booked via Capital One Travel
• 2X miles on all other eligible purchases

Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.

$395 (see rates and fees )

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has several key benefits that easily make it worth keeping year after year. For starters, you'll receive an annual $300 travel credit for bookings made through Capital One Travel and receive 10,000 bonus miles (worth at least $100 in travel) every account anniversary. You can also receive a statement credit of up to $100 every four years (per account) for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.

This card provides unlimited visits to Priority Pass, Plaza Premium and Capital One airport lounges (enrollment required). Cardholders can bring an unlimited number of guests to Priority Pass lounges and up to two guests for free per visit to Plaza Premium and Capital One lounges. So you could add your significant other to your account for free, and when you're traveling together, you can bring up to four guests with you into Plaza Premium and Capital One airport lounges worldwide.

Cardholders can also take advantage of:

• Cell phone insurance
• Rental car insurance
• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage
• Travel accident insurance
• Trip delay reimbursement
• Lost luggage reimbursement
• Purchase security
• Extended warranty protection
• Return protection

The Capital One miles you earn with this card can be redeemed to offset travel purchases at a rate of one cent per mile. You can also transfer these miles to a variety of travel partner loyalty programs, including Air Canada, Emirates and Turkish Airlines.

*Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Refer to your Guide to Benefits for more details.

The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card has no annual fee and offers one of the most generous intro APR periods of any card, but doesn't offer any rewards.

The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card offers cell phone protection of up to $600 for damage and theft with a $25 deductible. To qualify you need to pay your monthly cell phone bill with your Wells Fargo Reflect card . You can be reimbursed for a maximum of two claims per 12-month period.

Cardholders can also access My Wells Fargo Deals, an opt-in cashback program for specific retailers, giving cardholders discounts on eligible purchases.

Shared credit card account pros and cons

For a couple to share a credit card account, you'll typically need one person to get approved for the card and then add the other person as an authorized user . Adding an authorized user, instead of opening a separate credit card, has some tradeoffs. It can be easy to manage a single account, but certain cards have fees to add additional card members and authorized users may not have access to all of a card's benefits .

• Simplicity — you'll have one account to track spending and rewards
• A partner who has weaker credit can have a card they might not otherwise be approved for
• One annual fee to pay and many cards don't charge to add authorized users
• Some benefits aren't available for authorized users or are shared by the primary cardmember and authorized users
• Certain cards charge an additional fee for authorized users
• You'll only earn one welcome bonus
• The primary cardholder is fully responsible for paying all charges

Do authorized users get the same perks as the main cardholder?

The perks available to authorized users vary by card, so you'll have to read the fine print. However, travel and purchase insurance often applies to authorized user transactions. Other perks such as statement credits are typically available per account, not per cardholder.

Can an unmarried couple open a credit card together?

Once you are approved for a credit card, you can add almost anyone who is of age as an authorized user to your account, regardless of marital status.

Does adding someone as an authorized user on my credit card help their credit?

Adding an authorized user to your credit card can help their credit, but that's not always the case. Some card issuers don't report authorized users to the credit bureaus. Also, the primary account holder needs a history of on-time payments for authorized users to see an improvement in their credit score.

Bottom line

There are many cards available for couples who want to share a credit card account , regardless of whether they are married or not. This is a way to simplify your finances by having one account to monitor for rewards and spending. However, there could be a tradeoff with access to fewer benefits and bonuses.

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Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every credit card   review is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of credit card   products .  While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics. See  our methodology  for more information on how we choose the best credit cards for extended warranty coverage.

Our methodology

To determine which credit cards are best for couples,  CNBC Select  analyzed the most popular credit cards available to U.S. consumers. We compared each card on a range of features, including the annual fee, authorized user fees, rewards, welcome bonus, introductory and standard APR and foreign transaction fees. We also considered additional perks and how easy it is to redeem points.

Catch up on CNBC Select's in-depth coverage of  credit cards ,  banking  and  money , and follow us on  TikTok ,  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, click here .

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What is a credit card for couples?

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Best Credit Cards for Couples in May 2024

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Holly Johnson

Contributor

Holly Johnson is a credit card expert and writer who covers rewards and loyalty programs, budgeting, and all things personal finance. In addition to writing for publications like Bankrate, CreditCards.com, Forbes Advisor and Investopedia, Johnson owns Club Thrifty and is the co-author of "Zero Down Your Debt: Reclaim Your Income and Build a Life You'll Love."

Tiffany Connors

Tiffany Wendeln Connors is a senior editor for CNET Money with a focus on credit cards. Previously, she covered personal finance topics as a writer and editor at The Penny Hoarder. She is passionate about helping people make the best money decisions for themselves and their families. She graduated from Bowling Green State University with a bachelor's degree in journalism and has been a writer and editor for publications including the New York Post, Women's Running magazine and Soap Opera Digest. When she isn't working, you can find her enjoying life in St. Petersburg, Florida, with her husband, daughter and a very needy dog.

Some credit cards are better for couples than others, depending on the couple’s financial goals. For example, there are credit cards that allow joint accounts to help you build your credit as a couple. If only one of you has stellar credit, choosing a card that allows an authorized user can help the other partner rebuild credit while still earning rewards. There are other cards that make it easy for couples to double up on credit card welcome bonuses and rewards for spending, and some even let couples pool their points together in the same account. 

Each of the cards on our list was chosen for a different goal, whether it’s earning rewards, building credit and establishing a true joint credit card account.

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card gives couples the chance to earn 2% cash rewards for their purchases with no annual fee. Plus, each person who applies and is approved for the card can earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases within three months of account opening.

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card may not have any bonus reward categories, but it doesn’t have any reward caps either. This means a couple can maximize their cash rewards on spending by using their cards for everything they buy.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card earns points in the Chase Ultimate Rewards program, which are redeemable for cash back, statement credits, gift cards, travel through Chase Travel℠ or 1:1 point transfers to Chase airline and hotel partners. It comes with a $95 annual fee, but cardholders can earn 75,000 bonus points worth over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel after spending $4,000 on purchases within three months of account opening. 

It earns the most rewards for travel purchased through Chase and for Lyft rides (through March 2025), but it also offers a solid rate for all your food needs, whether you’re dining out or cooking from your Airbnb. Its last reward category covers all forms of travel. The Chase Ultimate Rewards program lets couples who live at the same address pool their rewards in one account for convenience or better redemptions.

Cardholders also get a 25% redemption bonus when they redeem for travel through Chase. Other perks include primary auto rental collision damage waiver, Doordash and Instacart benefits, and bonus points on your account anniversary equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year (for example, if you spend $25,000 on purchases, you’ll get 2,500 bonus points).

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express  lets cardholders earn 6% cash back on up to $6,000 spent at U.S. supermarkets each year (then 1% back), 6% back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations, 3% cash back on transit and 1% back on other purchases. New cardmembers can also earn a $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in purchases within the first six months of account opening.

A $95 annual fee applies, but there is a $0 intro annual fee for the first year. And with the rewards you’ll be pulling in, it’s easy to forget about.

This card has a spending cap on its U.S. supermarket category, but couples with their own accounts can each spend and earn bonus rewards up to the limit. Partners who apply for the card separately can also earn separate welcome offers with this card.

Discover it® Secured Credit Card

The Discover it® Secured Credit Card* requires a refundable cash deposit of at least $200 that’ll form your starting credit limit. Discover reports payments and balances to the credit bureaus to help customers build credit over time with responsible use.

This card also comes with no annual fee, and cardholders earn 2% cash back on up to $1,000 spent at restaurants and gas stations each quarter (then 1% back) and 1% cash back on other purchases. At the end of your first year with the card, Discover will also essentially double all rewards earned during the first year.

Couples who need to build credit independently can each get started with their own secured credit card. The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is one of the best options out there since it earns rewards and helps build credit with no annual fee.

The Apple Card* offers the potential to earn 3% cash back at select merchants when you pay with Apple Pay, 2% on other purchases made with your card with Apple Pay and 1% cash back on other purchases. This card has no annual fee, late fee, foreign transaction fee or hidden fees.

That said, cardholders need to have an Apple phone or device to access this card and its benefits.

The Apple Card is one of the few credit cards on the market that allows true joint accounts. This option lets two people share a single line of credit together, and it’s available through the Apple Card Family program.

Credit cards for couples can come in different forms, including options like joint accounts or two partners each opening the same credit card with the goal of doubling up on benefits and rewards. In some cases, couples can also list each other as an authorized user on their credit card account, which lets their partner use the same line of credit and earn rewards together.

Very few credit cards actually allow joint accounts -- with the exception of the Apple Card. Consider the pros and cons of joint accounts before you open one with your partner.

Couples can build credit and earn rewards together.

Partners can easily see each other’s spending in real time.

Both parties are legally responsible for repaying the debt.

Pay just one monthly credit card bill instead of two.

Complications can occur if the relationship unravels.

Since one person isn’t solely responsible for repaying the debt, miscommunication can lead to missed payments.

Seeing each other’s spending can lead to problems and disagreements.

Joint cards have one line of credit and credit limit, which could be lower than the limit for two separate cards.

When a couple doesn’t want a joint account or entirely separate credit card accounts, they can consider adding one person to the other person’s account as an authorized user.

Track spending and pool rewards in one account.

Authorized users earn rewards on purchases just like primary accounts.

Partners with imperfect credit get access to a credit card and earn rewards when they may not be able to qualify on their own.

Authorized user accounts typically don’t count toward building credit as much as primary credit accounts.

The primary account holder is solely responsible for repayment.

Authorized user accounts don’t earn a separate welcome bonus when the other person is added to the account.

Some credit cards charge an annual fee for authorized users.

There are numerous scenarios where it makes the most sense for couples to apply for their own credit card accounts. However, there are downsides to be aware of.

Couples with separate cards can both earn their own credit card welcome bonus.

Some credit cards let couples pool their rewards in one account.

Separate cards afford more freedom and a greater sense of ownership over their credit.

Both partners build credit with a credit card over time.

Couples may wind up paying multiple annual fees when they have several cards.

Some credit cards for couples have overlapping benefits.

Having separate accounts makes it easier to keep financial secrets.

Couples who apply for a credit card with a joint account, as an authorized user on each other’s accounts or with separate accounts should be as strategic as they can.

Earn more rewards

Each person having a rewards credit card ensures a greater haul at the end of each year. This is true whether couples opt for a cash back credit card or one that earns travel rewards they can use for their next getaway.

Earn a welcome bonus (twice)

Having both partners sign up for a separate credit card account makes it possible to earn two welcome bonuses as long as each account meets the minimum spending requirement. These bonuses help couples maximize their yearly rewards. 

And yes, credit card issuers will let couples who live at the same address get approved for the same credit card and allow each to earn a welcome bonus.

Pair two different cards

Couples can also get two different credit cards with the goal of maximizing rewards. For example, one person can get a credit card with no annual fee to boost cash back rewards for spending, and the other can get a card that offers points that work well for travel.

This works best for credit card rewards programs that let couples pool their points in one account. For example, one person could get the Chase Freedom Unlimited® with no annual fee and the other person could get the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card . They could then pool all points in the Preferred account to get 25% more value when redeeming for travel through Chase or find an even better value by transferring points to Chase’s airline and hotel partners.

• Chase Freedom Flex℠ : This no annual fee credit card lets cardholders earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 spent in rotating quarterly bonus categories (activation required; then 1% back), plus 5% back on Lyft rides (through March 2025), 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases and 1% back on other spending. 
• Citi Premier ® Card : This flexible travel credit card lets cardholders share points with other members of the Citi ThankYou program, although shared points must be used within 90 days or they expire. It charges a $95 annual fee, yet couples can each earn a generous welcome bonus and earn rewards in popular spending categories.
• American Express ® Gold Card : This rewards card for foodies earns 4X points at restaurants worldwide (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.), 4X points on up to $25,000 spent at U.S. supermarkets each year (then 1X points), 3X points on airfare booked directly with airlines or through Amextravel.com and 1X points on other purchases. However, with a $250 annual fee, it’s more expensive than other options.

Picking the right credit card for couples is only half the battle. The other half is applying:

• Compare credit cards : Compare the best credit cards for couples to find options that offer benefits and rewards that make sense for your joint goals. This could be a cash-back credit card, a travel credit card or even two different credit cards that complement each other.
• Check your credit scores : Both partners should use a program like Capital One CreditWise or Chase Credit Journey to get a free look at their credit scores. This can help decide if one partner should be an authorized user or if both partners can get their own accounts.
• Apply securely on the credit card issuer’s website : Once you find a credit card that suits your needs, you can apply online. Filling out the application will require you to share details like your full name, address, phone number, monthly mortgage or rent payment, household income and Social Security number (SSN).
• Find out if you’re approved : Many credit card issuers will let you know if you’re approved for a card within minutes of submitting your application online. Otherwise, you’ll find out about an approval or denial via email or regular postal mail.

The best credit card for couples is the Wells Fargo Active Cash. It offers a competitive rewards rate, an introductory purchase APR and a number of useful perks.

Unmarried couples have all the same options as married couples when it comes to getting credit cards. They can each apply for their own account, add each other as an authorized user or apply for a joint credit card like the Apple Card.

Married couples may want to have their own credit card accounts so they are each building their own credit history through responsible use. Separate credit cards for married couples can also offer additional benefits like earning two welcome bonuses or pooling rewards.

For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express, click here .

*All information about the Discover it Secured Credit Card , Apple Card and Chase Freedom Flex has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.

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Best credit cards for couples including newlyweds and married couples

By: Author coupletraveltheworld

Posted on Last updated: January 20, 2022

Categories Romance

Looking for the best credit cards for couples?

It’s the beginning of a new year and you might be wondering if you should get a new credit card. There are a lot of things to consider when getting a new card – how will it affect my credit? Which one should I get? How do I make the most of points and miles? Can I get one with my partner?

In this guide, I will answer all these questions and more, and let you know my top picks for the best joint credit card by category in 2022. 

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Our favorite picks for 2022 by annual fee;
• Best strategies for couples;
• FAQs relating to couples and credit cards;
• Winners by category at the end of the day…

Our favorite Credit Cards for Couples for 2022 by annual fee

$0 annual fee.

If you’re looking to add a card that won’t break the bank, these $0 annual fee cards might be the best option for you. 

Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card

Rather than a set rate for cash back on all purchases, the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card offers a tiered approach, with 3% back on your choice of: gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drug stores, or home improvement; 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs; and 1% cashback on all other purchases.

This would be a great card to use primarily for things like dining and groceries to maximize your cash back.

Currently, there is a $200 sign up bonus after spending $1000 in the first 90 after account opening. 

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

SavorOne rewards offers 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and at grocery stores, plus 1% cash back on all other purchases. You can also get a $200 cash bonus after spending only $500 on your card in the first 3 months from account opening.

SavorOne offers no foreign transaction fees making this a great option for those who want a no cost credit card to use while traveling internationally. You can also get a whopping 8% cash back on tickets at Vivid Seats when using your card. 

Chase Freedom Flex

The newest card from Chase, the Freedom Flex is a great card to have in your wallet. You get 5% cash back on up to $1500 in bonus categories each quarter, as well as 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% on dining, 3% on drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.

Plus, you can get $200 statement credit after $500 on purchases in the first 3 months after account opening, as well as an increased 5% cash back on grocery store purchases in your first year. 

Wells Fargo Active Cash Card

With unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase and a welcome bonus of $200 after $1000 spent in the first 3 months after card opening, the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is a great option. WalletHub voted this card the Best Cash Back Credit Card of 2021.

You can redeem rewards for purchases, to your account to lower your balance, at an ATM, or for gift cards at $25 increments. This card also provides up to $600 of protection against damage or theft of your cell phone if you use the card to pay your monthly cell phone bill. 

Wells Fargo Reflect Card

If you’re working on building up your credit, this card by Wells Fargo could be the one for you. The current welcome offer is 0% intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers for 18 months with a possible 3 month extension for on-time minimum payments.

This would be a great option if you’re struggling to pay down credit card debit because you can transfer your balance and not worry about adding on interest for up to 21 months. As with the Active Cash card, you get the same cell phone protection – a signature of Wells Fargo. 

$95 annual fee

For a low annual fee of just $95, these cards provide increased benefits at a low cost. 

Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express

Starting off strong, The Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express gives you a whopping 6% cash back at supermarkets and U.S. streaming services and 3% cash back on U.S. gas stations and transit.

That means if you spend $1,000 in a month at the supermarket, you will get $60 cash back. In addition, this card is waiving the first annual fee, meaning you won’t have to pay the $95 until your first card renewal. You can also get $350 back after spending $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months after account opening. 

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is consistently rated one of the best travel rewards credit cards on the market. You get 5x points on travel booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3x points on dining, grocery, and streaming, 2x points on travel, and 1x points on everything else.

Currently, Chase is offering a sign up bonus of 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months after account opening, but we recommend waiting. We’ve seen sign up bonuses as high as 100,000 points in the past year, which gives you an additional $500 towards travel. 

Citi Premier Card

The Citi Premier Card, a long time competitor of the Chase Sapphire Preferred, is another excellent addition to your wallet. Earning is pretty similar, with 3x points on restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and travel, and 1x points on all other purchases.

You also get $100 off a $500 or more hotel stay every year. The current sign up bonus is the exact same as the Chase Sapphire Preferred, making the decision between these cards even more difficult. 

$250 annual fee

American Express Gold Card

At just $250 annually, the Gold Card by American Express comes with substantial benefits. You earn 4x points on dining and grocery, 3x points on flights, and 1x points on all other purchases. Also, you get $10 Uber Cash every month ($120 annually), $10 monthly statement credits on dining ($120 annually), and no foreign transaction fees.

The statement credits, if used, come to $240 annually, which is just shy of the annual fee and does not factor in all the other benefits of using this card. The intro offer is an amazing 75,000 points after $4,000 spent within the first 6 months of card membership. The card comes in standard gold, or a beautiful rose gold.

$550 annual fee

Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card

As a diehard Delta fan, I am partial to the SkyMiles Reserve by American Express. This card, although a hefty annual fee, comes with some of the best travel benefits in the industry. 

Earning is straightforward, with 3x miles on Delta purchases and 1x miles on everything else. You receive a Domestic First Class, Delta Comfort+, or Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate each year. You get complimentary access to the Delta SkyClub, as well as 2 complimentary guest passes each year. Other benefits include complimentary upgrades, first checked bag free, and a fee credit for Global Entry or TSA Precheck. 

f you sign up now, you get 125,000 bonus miles and 10,000 Medallion Qualifying Miles (MQM’s) after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first 3 months. 

$695 annual fee

The Platinum Card from American Express

The Platinum Card from American Express has the highest annual fee of $695, but it certainly comes with premium benefits. 

Benefits include, but not limited to:

• A yearly $200 statement credit after using your card to purchase a hotel through American Express Travel 
• Up to $20 back each month when you purchase subscriptions at Peacock, the New York Times, Audible, or SiriusXM 
• A $155 Walmart+ credit, which completely covers the cost of membership
• $15 in Uber Cash each month, along with a bonus $20 in December
• $200 airline fee credit to cover costs such as checked bags and inflight refreshments on your chosen airline
• $25 statement credit monthly to pay for Equinox membership fees
• $179 statement credit to cover the cost of CLEAR to move through security faster
• Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• $100 statement credit to cover Global Entry, which includes TSA Precheck
• 5x points on flights booked directly through the airline or American Express Travel
• 5x points on prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com
• 1x on all other purchases

If you’re counting, the benefits of more than $1400 in annual statement credits far outweigh the $695 annual membership, as long as you’re able to take advantage of them. You can also earn 100,000 membership points after you spend $6,000 on purchases within your first 6 months after account opening. 

Our Winners

Best overall credit card for couples and, newlyweds and married couples.

We picked the American Express Gold Card as the best card for couples because it comes in at a modest $250 annual fee, but provides value where couples would use it most. 4x points on dining, grocery, as well as monthly credits on dining and grocery push this card over the top. 

Best credit card for cash back

TIE:  Chase Freedom Flex and Blue Cash Preferred by American Express

When it comes to cash back, the market is saturated with options. However, we think these two cards stand out as terrific options. The Chase Freedom Flex has no annual fee and allows you to choose your 5% cash back each quarter on a category you’ll get the most use out of, which is very unique.

On the other side, the Blue Cash Preferred by American Express gives you 6% cash back on supermarkets and streaming and 3% on gas stations and transit, but comes in at $95 a year. When people are wanting a cash back card, they typically prefer something that won’t cost them anything.  

Best credit card for miles

Delta SkyMiles Reserve by American Express

This category is very subjective, and it’s important to think about which airline you are most likely to fly. If you’re in an area that Delta heavily serves, this card cannot be beat.

We love the Domestic First Class companion ticket, as well as the 125,000 bonus miles when signing up. Delta is consistently rated the best U.S. airline, and we think this card is the best for miles. 

Best credit card for points

Chase Sapphire Preferred

We think it would be a crime to not include the famous Chase Sapphire Preferred in our winners category. Chase has some of the highest valued points in the travel industry, and the Preferred packs a lot into a card with a $95 annual fee.

This card is a great intro card for those who do not want to break the bank but want to get their feet wet in the world of travel and points. 

Best credit card for fees

It might seem a little bit ironic that the best card for fees happens to be the card with the highest annual fee on our list, but we think the massive amount of annual statement credits cancel out that fee.

If you are someone who frequently travels, uses subscription services, transits through Uber, and wants to travel more easily through programs like CLEAR, Global Entry, and access to a variety of lounges, then this card earns its annual fee back in a flash. 

Best credit card for bad credit

This is the only card on our list that primarily focuses on 0% intro APR for purchases and balance transfers, making it the best option for those with bad credit.

This card is great for those of you that are struggling to pay off credit card debt and keep racking up interest on your balances. For up to 21 months, you can pay off your debt and gain no interest with this card. 

Best strategies for couples and Frequently Asked Questions

What happens to my credit card when i get married .

Nothing happens to your credit card or even your credit score when you get married. Credit reports, history, and cards all remain separate after marriage unless you apply for a loan or open up a joint account together. 

Can married couples get credit cards together?

Yes, married couples are able to get credit cards together.

The main difference between a joint credit card account and adding an authorized user is that both parties on a joint account are responsible for the balance, whereas only the primary card holder is responsible if they add an authorized user. 

Can a spouse use my credit card when I’m not there? 

Yes, a spouse can use your credit card when you are not there IF you have given explicit permission for them to do so. If you have not given them permission, then it is fraud and is illegal.

However, the best course of action would be to add them as an authorized user to your account, so that way they have their own credit card with their name on it to avoid any confusion or questions when trying to make a purchase. 

Pros and Cons of adding an authorized user

An authorized user is someone on your account that is authorized to use your card. When you add an authorized user, they typically get their own credit card with their name on it, but it is linked to your account.

The main benefit in adding an authorized user is that you have someone else to help you collect points or miles through spending. However, this can also be a downfall – the user has full autonomy over purchases, so you have to make sure you trust the person you are adding and be clear about the limits to their spending. 

Will adding an authorized user hurt my credit score?

The act of adding an authorized user will not affect your credit at all and will not show up on your credit report. However, you are now responsible for any and all purchases the user makes, so it could impact your credit if you are unable to pay the balance on your account. 

Can you improve your credit as an authorized user?

If you are an authorized user on an account that is kept in good standing, this is a great way to improve your credit score or start out your credit journey as a young adult.

While this shouldn’t be the only tool you’re using to build credit, becoming an authorized user can help you learn about credit and manage your finances prior to getting a card in your own name. 

Pros and cons of a joint account

A joint account is a great way for someone that doesn’t have great credit to get a credit card and work on improving their credit. For example, if someone with good credit opens a joint account with someone with bad credit, it will help the person with bad credit increase their score by being linked to someone that is financially responsible.

On the flip side of that coin, if you ever need to separate your finances from your partner, this can be tricky. Lenders might not want to remove one person from the account, so you would have to close the account altogether. 

Pros and cons of having separate cards

Of course, the main benefit here is that you can be in control of your own credit. You don’t have to worry about anyone else recklessly spending money or forgetting to pay the balance.

The main drawback is if you don’t have good credit and have a difficult time getting approved for your own card. Credit is a tricky game that must be played carefully. 

How many credit cards is too many? 

This is a difficult question to answer, as it really depends on personal preference and an understanding of how your credit score works.

The most important thing is understanding your spending habits and paying your cards on time. There isn’t a hard and fast rule on too many versus too little cards. You also need to make sure you space out card inquiries, as submitting too many applications back to back can flag your credit. 

At the end of the day…for the best couples credit cards

Building credit can be confusing enough for one person, but even more so for a couple. There are a lot of factors to consider, like spending habits, budget for an annual fee, and how you’d like to use your rewards. It’s all about what you feel comfortable with, so talk with your partner and see what makes the most sense for your household. Here’s to more points and miles in 2022!

Do you have a favorite credit card or other questions about credit? We’d love to hear them.

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Best credit cards for couples

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Whether you decide on joint finances as a couple or you think keeping your money separate seems safer, there are plenty of reasons for both people in a relationship to have access to the same credit card.

Not only can you use cards to earn rewards on your spending, but you can also enjoy consumer protections like extended warranties or purchase protection against damage or theft. And travel credit cards, in particular, offer a range of perks that can make travel more comfortable for both parties in a relationship.

Managing credit is part of the experience of navigating your finances as a couple , and determining a method that works for you both can help you maximize savings and keep up your financial health.

Best credit card strategies for couples

Here are a few of the ways couples can plan their use of plastic together, including some of the advantages and disadvantages to consider.

Joint credit cards

Many card issuers no longer allow joint credit card accounts with co-applicants in which more than one person is listed as the primary borrower. The easier way to allow two parties access to one account is by having one person add the other as an authorized user on their credit card.

Add each other as authorized users

The most common way to be on the same account as your spouse or partner is by having them add you as an authorized user on their credit card account, or by adding them to your account. Only the person who signed up for the account is the primary borrower in this case, but you’re both borrowing against the same line of credit and earning rewards toward the same balance.

The downside of authorized user accounts is that the authorized user won’t earn a separate sign-up bonus, whereas you could double up on bonuses if both spouses opened their own card. Some premium travel credit cards also tend to charge a fee to add an authorized user to the account.

However, adding an authorized user can make a lot of sense if one spouse has much better credit and the other spouse may not be approved for their own card. Being added as an authorized user could even help boost a lower credit rating over time, provided the credit card is used responsibly by all parties.

Keep credit card accounts separate

Many couples also choose to keep their credit card accounts separate, and this is not always due to keeping finances separate. Having separate cards means both spouses can earn their own sign-up bonuses and have their own rewards categories.

Since many rewards programs (like Chase Ultimate Rewards) let you combine points with a spouse or partner living at the same address, being able to double up on initial bonus rewards is a huge benefit.

It’s important to note that you can include household income in your credit card application per federal law. This means that a stay-at-home parent can include their spouse’s income and all other household income on their application, thus making it easier for them to get approved for their own credit card.

Bankrate’s picks for the best credit cards for couples:

Best for travelers: chase sapphire preferred® card.

• Best for no annual fee: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Best for groceries: Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

• Best for cash back categories: Chase Freedom Flex℠
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. That’s $1,000 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
• Enjoy new benefits such as a $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3X points on dining and 2X points on all other travel purchases.
• Earn 5X points on Lyft purchases through March 2025
• $95 annual fee

Why it’s the best for travelers

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is a solid option if you want some maximum travel value in your redemption options. With this card, you can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points 1:1 to airline and hotel programs or book travel through the Chase portal and get 25 percent more value out of your points. You can also redeem your points for cash back, statement credits, gift cards and more.

Chase lets you combine all your points with a spouse or partner who lives at the same address, so it makes sense for couples to each have their own card and earn their own sign-up bonus early on.

Other cardholder benefits couples might use include trip cancellation and interruption insurance, primary auto rental insurance coverage, purchase protection against damage or theft, extended warranties on eligible items and baggage insurance coverage.

Best for no annual fee: Wells Fargo Active Cash Card

• Earn $200 bonus cash rewards after spending $1,000 on purchases within the first three months
• Earn unlimited 2 percent cash rewards on purchases
• No annual fee
• Zero percent intro APR on purchases from account opening and qualifying balance transfers from account opening for 15 months, followed by a variable APR of 17.24 percent, 22.24 percent, or 27.24 percent

Why it’s the best with no annual fee

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card earns a solid 2 percent cash rewards on purchases, so you’ll never have to worry about keeping track of bonus categories. The unlimited cash rewards without an annual fee is worth considering, and the $200 bonus cash rewards you’ll earn when you spend $1,000 on purchases within three months of account opening is a nice way to kickstart your earnings.

If you and your spouse need to make a large purchase, you can also save money with the intro 0 percent APR offer on purchases from account opening for 15 months. Just remember, that rate won’t last forever: your card’s APR will reset to the higher variable rate of 17.24 percent, 22.24 percent, or 27.24 percent once 15 months are up.

• Earn a $350 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first six months.
• Earn 6 percent cash back on up to $6,000 spent each year at U.S. supermarkets (then 1 percent) as well as select streaming services, 3 percent back on U.S. gas station purchases and transit and 1 percent back on other purchases
• Zero percent intro APR on purchases and balance transfer for 12 months, followed by a variable APR of 16.24 percent to 27.24 percent

Why it’s the best for groceries

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is the best option for couples who spend a lot on groceries , but you may want to consider opening separate card accounts. With separate accounts, not only can both partners earn the welcome offer (a $350 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 6 months), but they can also each earn 6 percent back on up to $6,000 spent at U.S. supermarkets each year (then 1 percent). Considering that the average couple with two kids under age five spends $848.80 per month, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) , couples could alternate cards when paying for groceries and earn $611 in rewards each year in this category alone.

This card does charge an annual fee, but you can quickly earn back the $95 by maximizing rewards categories. You can use your rewards for statement credits, cash back or gift cards as well, so you’ll have some flexibility in terms of how you and your partner decide to cash them in together or separately.

Best for cash back categories: Chase Freedom Flex

• Earn $200 when you spend $500 within three months of account opening
• Earn 5 percent back on up to $1,500 spent each quarter in activated bonus categories (then 1 percent) and 1 percent back on other purchases.
• Earn 5 percent back on Chase Ultimate Rewards travel purchases and Lyft rides (through March 2022), 3 percent cash back on dining (including restaurants, takeout and eligible delivery services) and drugstore purchases and 1 percent cash back on all other purchases
• Zero percent intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, followed by a variable APR of 16.49 percent to 25.24 percent

Why it’s the best for earning cash back

The Chase Freedom Flex is another good choice for couples since you can earn 5 percent back on up to $1,500 in combined rotating categories each quarter upon activation, then 1 percent.

Chase lets you combine all your points with a spouse or partner at the same address, so both partners could get individual cards and earn a sign-up bonus, then combine rewards later.

If you want to save money on purchases, you’ll also love the fact this card offers zero percent intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, followed by a variable APR of 16.49 percent to 25.24 percent. If you decide to transfer over high-interest balances from other cards or loans, a 3 percent balance transfer fee (minimum $5) applies for the first 60 days. After that, the balance transfer fee goes up to 5 percent with the same $5 minimum.

Don’t see the card for you? Our CardMatch feature can help you find a card that best fits your needs.

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Advertiser Disclosure

Best credit cards for couples

Joining your lives could also mean marrying your credit card rewards strategy

Published: May 6, 2022

Author: Allie Johnson

Author: Erin Bendig

Editor: Claire Dickey

Reviewer: Barri Segal

How we Choose

Whether you’re interested in earning cash back, points or miles, there’s an option to help you and your partner rake in rewards.

The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Please review our list of best credit cards , or use our CardMatch™ tool to find cards matched to your needs.

If you’ve said your vows or joined your finances with your partner, it might be time to move past the credit card that’s been by your side all through your single years. And even if you keep that card, it pays to consider adding cards that give couples the chance to earn big.

Whether you’re combining your finances or keeping them separate, you can still meld your rewards. Keep reading to learn more about the best rewards cards for couples and how to maximize the rewards you earn.

Discover it Cash Back: Best for the strategic, cash back-seeking couple

Why we picked it : The Discover it® Cash Back is a fine option for couples looking to earn cash back and who prefer rotating categories over flat-rate rewards . With the Discover it, couples can earn 5% back on up to $1,500 in purchases each quarter (after activation) and 1% back on all other spending – so, if you tend to spend in a variety of categories, this card can provide a way to earn heightened rewards (with a little strategizing).

Discover also offers a valuable Cashback Match program for new cardholders. After your first year of card ownership, Discover will match all the rewards you earned during it. If you end up earning $150 in cash back, for example, Discover will gift you an additional $150, bringing you to a total of $300 in cash back earnings.

• Cash back calendar announced all at once at the start of the year (compared with Chase, which releases categories quarterly)
• No annual fee (So it makes financial sense for both people to become cardholders to increase the bonus category cap, if desired.)
• 0% intro APR on both purchases and balance transfers for 15 months (15.74% to 26.74% variable APR after)
• $1,500 quarterly cap, which can hinder the earning potential of big spenders
• Enrollment required each quarter in order to earn 5% back
• Discover credit cards not accepted as widely as Visa or Mastercard credit cards, especially abroad

Who should apply : Couples with good or excellent credit who are looking to maximize cash back earnings in rotating categories should apply for the Discover it Cash Back. For a dual cardholder household, you’ll be able to earn $3,000 (only allowed for two individual accounts, not an authorized user ) per quarter.

Who should skip : Couples looking for the ease of a flat-rate cash back card should opt out. You’ll need to enroll each quarter in order to receive the heightened cash back rate (otherwise you’ll earn 1% back), so you’ll need to plan ahead to maximize your earnings. Further, those with spending that doesn’t align with any of the bonus categories – or who want a more simplistic rewards rate – would be better off with a different option.

Chase Sapphire Preferred: Best for the traveling twosome

Why we picked it : For a reasonable $95 annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a sweet travel credit card – offering 2X points on general travel purchases and a heightened 5X points on travel you book through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal .

Plus, if earning a solid sign-up bonus is the name of your game (the Preferred offers 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months), you won’t be disappointed. This minimum spend should be fairly easy to reach with two people pulling out the card for all purchases.

• Stellar sign-up bonus and ongoing rewards on travel
• Sapphire Preferred travel benefits : annual hotel credit, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance and more
• Transfer points between spouses or domestic partners for free, making it easier to book travel
• Referral program (formally known as Refer-A-Friend) that rewards 15,000 points for each “friend” who is approved for the Sapphire Preferred – maybe each get a card
• $95 annual fee can be a turn off to infrequent spenders or travelers
• Less impressive travel perks compared to its sister card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card (Reserve charges a much higher $550 annual fee)
• Pay double the annual fees if both get separate cards (keep in mind regarding the referral program)

Who should apply : The Chase Sapphire Preferred is best suited for couples who travel frequently and, more specifically, plan to take advantage of the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal.

Who should skip : You do get a variety of redemption options (travel, transfer partner travel, cash back, statement credits , gift cards, merchandise and more), but couples who don’t plan on redeeming for travel or prefer earning cash back, for example, might look elsewhere.

Amex Blue Cash Preferred: Best for a couple’s cozy night in

Why we picked it : The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a homebody’s dream, earning huge rewards on both groceries and streaming subscriptions. More specifically, you’ll get 6% cash back on U.S. supermarket purchases (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%) and 6% back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions (think Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Spotify and Hulu). You’ll also get 3% back on transit and U.S. gas station purchases and 1% on everything else.

The Blue Cash Preferred offers some of the absolute highest cash back rates on groceries and streaming subscriptions available, so if you and your partner frequently find yourselves holed up on a Friday night, you won’t regret signing up for a card with this sort of earning power.

• $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first six months
• Free ShopRunner membership, among other perks
• $95 annual fee ($0 intro annual fee for the first year)
• U.S. supermarket category limited to $6,000 in purchases per year (after that, 1% earned)
• Comparatively limited redemption options (statement credits, merchandise and gift cards)

Who should apply : Those most interested in earning rewards on groceries and streaming services (or even on gas and transit) should consider the Amex Blue Cash Preferred.

Who should skip : If your household easily spends more than $6,000 on groceries in a year, you might look elsewhere – specifically. at credit cards for grocery shopping that don’t impose an earnings cap.

Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier: Best for cost-cutting frequent flyers

Why we picked it : If you’re not already a Southwest loyalist, you may consider becoming one. The Southwest Companion Pass , which you get after earning 125,000 Rapid Rewards points or flying 100 qualifying Southwest flights in a year, allows you to bring one designated companion with you on Southwest flights you purchase – for free (minus taxes and fees, of course).

So, why recommend the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card ? All points earned count toward the Companion Pass, and the card’s welcome bonus can start you off with 50,000 points (after you spend at least $1,000 in the first three months). To further sweeten the pot, there’s an annual cardmember anniversary bonus of 6,000 points just for owning the card.

In terms of ongoing rewards, you’ll earn 3X points on Southwest purchases, 2X points on local transit, commuting (including rideshares), internet, cable, phone services and select streaming services, plus 1X points on everything else.

• Decent welcome offer and anniversary bonus
• Points earned count toward Southwest Companion Pass
• No blackout dates on travel, change fees or booking fees
• 2 EarlyBird Check-Ins each year
• $99 annual fee (not as high as the $149 annual fee of its sister card, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card )
• No airline partners – must book all rewards flights through the airline
• Limited options when it comes to international travel

Who should apply : Those looking to earn the Southwest Companion Pass (and effectively fly their partner with them for free) should certainly look into applying for the Rapid Rewards Premier. It might also make sense to add your partner as an authorized user, so you both can build up the spending required to qualify for the sign-up bonus and, eventually, the Companion Pass.

Timing is important when it comes to earning the Companion Pass, because you get it for the following calendar year plus the rest of the calendar year in which you earned it. So, the earlier in the year you can earn it, the better.

Who should skip : If you prefer to travel with other airlines or want better options for international travel, you should skip on applying for the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier.

Comparing the best credit cards for couples

For the sake of an easy comparison, here’s a rundown of the above cards’ welcome bonuses, rewards rates, annual fees and introductory APRs.

How to choose a credit card for your relationship

There are a variety of credit cards that work well for couples, so when choosing an option for you and your partner, consider which of the following card details matter most to you:

• Determine which kind of rewards you’re most interested in earning: Whether you both seek the simplicity of a flat-rate cash back card or yearn for the excitement of rotating categories, it’s imperative that you determine which rewards currency makes the most sense for your shared lifestyle. For couples who frequently travel, for example, opening a miles-earning card can help save money on future vacations together. If you’re loyal to a particular carrier, an airline credit card could be beneficial. Or, opting for a general travel rewards card with great transfer partner opportunities can potentially further stretch your rewards’ value.
• Know which fees you’re OK with paying: This includes not only annual fees, but balance transfer fees, foreign transaction fees, late payment fees and more. Not all of these will apply to you, of course, but being strategic ensures you won’t run into any surprise costs along the way.
• Look for a worthwhile sign-up bonus: Great sign-up bonuses can be seen as icing on the cake, so why not try and take advantage of one? Take a look at some of the best credit card sign-up bonuses so  you can compare all your options ahead of time.
• Consider a card’s niche benefits: Are you looking for extended warranty or purchase protection? Could you benefit from travel statement credits or trip delay reimbursement? Many cards offer benefits beyond the typical ongoing rewards and welcome bonus, so keep that in mind as you shop around.

Bottom line

Being coupled up has its rewards, especially when it comes to credit cards. But it’s important to get your finances in order, create a budget and get on the same page about money before you delve into cash back, points or miles together.

Editorial Disclaimer

The editorial content on this page is based solely on the objective assessment of our writers and is not driven by advertising dollars. It has not been provided or commissioned by the credit card issuers. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners.

Allie Johnson is an award-winning freelance writer covering personal finance, business and lifestyle. She loves tracking down tips, tricks and cautionary tales about credit cards and money.

Erin Bendig Erin pairs personal experience with research and is passionate about sharing credit card information and personal finance advice with others.

On this page

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• Comparing credit cards for couples
• How to choose a card together

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15 Best Travel Credit Cards of May 2024

ALSO CONSIDER: Best credit cards of 2024 || Best rewards credit cards || Best airline credit cards || Best hotel credit cards

The best travel credit card is one that brings your next trip a little closer every time you use it. Purchases earn points or miles you can use to pay for travel. If you're loyal to a specific airline or hotel chain, consider one of that company's branded travel credit cards. Otherwise, check out our picks for general-purpose travel cards that give you flexible travel rewards without the restrictions and blackout dates of branded cards.

250+ credit cards reviewed and rated by our team of experts

80+ years of combined experience covering credit cards and personal finance

100+ categories of best credit card selections ( See our top picks )

Objective comprehensive ratings rubrics ( Methodology )

NerdWallet's credit cards content, including ratings and recommendations, is overseen by a team of writers and editors who specialize in credit cards. Their work has appeared in The Associated Press, USA Today, The New York Times, MarketWatch, MSN, NBC's "Today," ABC's "Good Morning America" and many other national, regional and local media outlets. Each writer and editor follows NerdWallet's strict guidelines for editorial integrity .

Show summary

NerdWallet's Best Travel Credit Cards of May 2024

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best for Max flexibility + big bonus

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for Flat-rate rewards

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best for Travel portal benefits

Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Best for Cash back for travel bookings

American Express® Gold Card : Best for Big rewards on everyday spending

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for Bonus rewards + no annual fee

The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for Luxury travel perks

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : Best for Business travelers

Citi Premier® Card : Best for Triple points on multiple categories

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card : Best for Flat-rate rewards + no annual fee

Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for Bonus rewards + high-end perks

World of Hyatt Credit Card : Best for Best hotel card

Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card : Best for Travel rewards for rent payments

United℠ Explorer Card : Best for Best airline card

PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card : Best for Credit union benefits

Best Travel Credit Cards

Find the right credit card for you..

Whether you want to pay less interest or earn more rewards, the right card's out there. Just answer a few questions and we'll narrow the search for you.

Max flexibility + big bonus

Flat-rate rewards, travel portal benefits, cash back for travel bookings, big rewards on everyday spending, bonus rewards + no annual fee, luxury travel perks, business travelers, triple points on multiple categories, flat-rate rewards + no annual fee, bonus rewards + high-end perks, best hotel card, travel rewards for rent payments, best airline card, credit union benefits, full list of editorial picks: best travel credit cards.

Before applying, confirm details on the issuer’s website.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Our pick for: Flat-rate rewards

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is probably the best-known general-purpose travel credit card, thanks to its ubiquitous advertising. You earn 5 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel and 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases. Miles can be redeemed at a value of 1 cent apiece for any travel purchase, without the blackout dates and other restrictions of branded hotel and airline cards. The card offers a great sign-up bonus and other worthwhile perks ( see rates and fees ). Read our review.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Our pick for: Flat-rate rewards + no annual fee

One of the best no-annual-fee travel cards available, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card gives you a solid rewards rate on every purchase, with points that can be redeemed for any travel purchase, without the restrictions of branded airline and hotel cards. Bank of America® has an expansive definition of "travel," too, giving you additional flexibility in how you use your rewards. Read our review.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Our pick for: Bonus rewards + high-end perks

The high annual fee on the Chase Sapphire Reserve® gives many potential applicants pause, but frequent travelers should be able to wring enough value out of this card to more than make up for the cost. Cardholders get bonus rewards (up to 10X) on dining and travel, a fat bonus offer, annual travel credits, airport lounge access, and a 50% boost in point value when redeeming points for travel booked through Chase. Points can also be transferred to about a dozen airline and hotel partners. Read our review. 

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Our pick for: Max flexibility + big bonus

For a reasonable annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card earns bonus rewards (up to 5X) on travel, dining, select streaming services, and select online grocery purchases. Points are worth 25% more when you redeem them for travel booked through Chase, or you can transfer them to about a dozen airline and hotel partners. The sign-up bonus is stellar, too. Read our review. 

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Our pick for: Bonus rewards + no annual fee

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card offers so much value, it's hard to believe there's no annual fee. Start with a great bonus offer, then earn extra rewards in a host of common spending categories — restaurants, gas stations, transit, travel, streaming and more. Read our review.

Citi Premier® Card

Our pick for: Triple points in multiple categories

The Citi Premier® Card earns bonus points on airfare, hotels, supermarkets, dining and gas stations. There's a solid sign-up bonus as well.  Read our review.

U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card

Our pick for: Road trips

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is one of the most generous cards on the market if you're taking to the skies or the road, thanks to the quadruple points it earns on travel and purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations. It's also a solid card for everyday expenses like groceries, dining and streaming, and it comes with ongoing credits that can offset its annual fee:  $0 intro for the first year, then $95 .  Read our review .

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Our pick for: Travel portal benefits

Capital One's premium travel credit card can deliver terrific benefits — provided you're willing to do your travel spending through the issuer's online booking portal. That's where you'll earn the highest rewards rates plus credits that can make back the bulk of your annual fee ( see rates and fees ). Read our review.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Our pick for: Cash back for travel bookings

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® was already a fine card when it offered 1.5% cash back on all purchases. Now it's even better, with bonus rewards on travel booked through Chase, as well as at restaurants and drugstores. On top of all that, new cardholders get a 0% introductory APR period and the opportunity to earn a sweet bonus. Read our review.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Our pick for: Luxury travel perks

The Platinum Card® from American Express comes with a hefty annual fee, but travelers who like to go in style (and aren't afraid to pay for comfort) can more than get their money's worth. Enjoy extensive airport lounge access, hundreds of dollars a year in travel and shopping credits, hotel benefits and more. That's not even getting into the high rewards rate on eligible travel purchases and the rich welcome offer for new cardholders. Read our review.

American Express® Gold Card

Our pick for: Big rewards on everyday spending

The American Express® Gold Card can earn you a pile of points from everyday spending, with generous rewards at U.S. supermarkets, at restaurants and on certain flights booked through amextravel.com. Other benefits include hundreds of dollars a year in available dining and travel credits and a solid welcome offer for new cardholders. There's an annual fee, though, and a pretty substantial one, so it's not for smaller spenders. Read our review.

Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card

Our pick for: Travel rewards on rent payments

The Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card stands out by offering credit card rewards on rent payments without incurring an additional transaction fee. The ability to earn rewards on what for many people is their single biggest monthly expense makes this card worth a look for any renter. You also get bonus points on dining and travel when you make at least five transactions on the card each statement period, and redemption options include point transfers to partner hotel and loyalty programs. Read our review.

PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card

Our pick for: Credit union rewards

With premium perks for a $95 annual fee (which can be waived in some cases), jet-setters will get a lot of value from the PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card . It also offers a generous rewards rate on travel purchases and a decent flat rate on everything else. Plus, you’ll get travel credits and a Priority Pass membership that offers airport lounge access for $32 per visit. Read our review.

United℠ Explorer Card

Our pick for: B est airline card

The United℠ Explorer Card earns bonus rewards not only on spending with United Airlines but also at restaurants and on eligible hotel stays. And the perks are outstanding for a basic airline card — a free checked bag, priority boarding, lounge passes and more. Read our review.

» Not a United frequent flyer? See our best airline cards for other options

World of Hyatt Credit Card

Our pick for: Best hotel card

Hyatt isn't as big as its competitors, but World of Hyatt Credit Card is worth a look for anyone who spends a lot of time on the road. You can earn a lot of points even on non-Hyatt spending, and those points have a high value compared with rival programs. There's a great sign-up bonus, free nights, automatic elite status and more. Read our review.

» Not a Hyatt customer? See our best hotel cards for other options.

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Our pick for: Business travelers

The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card starts you off with one of the biggest sign-up bonuses of any credit card anywhere: Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠. You also get bonus rewards on travel expenses and common business spending categories, like advertising, shipping and internet, cable and phone service. Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel booked through Chase, or you can transfer them to about a dozen airline and hotel partners. Learn more and apply .

Are you in Canada?

See NerdWallet's best travel cards for Canada.

OTHER RESOURCES

How travel rewards work.

Modern-day adventurers and once-a-year vacationers alike love the idea of earning rewards toward their next big trip. According to a NerdWallet study , 68% of American adults say they have a credit card that earns travel rewards.

With a travel rewards credit card, you earn points or miles every time you use the card, but you can often earn more points per dollar in select categories. Some top travel credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , offer bonus points on any travel spending, while the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card grants bonus points when you use the card at Marriott hotels, grocery stores, restaurants or gas stations.

Not all points and miles earned on travel rewards credit cards are the same:

General-purpose travel credit cards — including the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , the American Express® Gold Card and the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card — give you rewards that can be used like cash to pay for travel or that can be exchanged for points in airline or hotel loyalty programs. With their flexible rewards, general-purpose options are usually the best travel credit cards for those who don't stick to a single airline or hotel chain.

Airline- and hotel-specific cards — such as the United℠ Explorer Card and the Hilton Honors American Express Card — give points and miles that can be used only with the brand on the card. (Although it's possible in some cases to transfer hotel points to airlines, we recommend against it because you get a poor value.) These so-called co-branded cards are usually the best travel credit cards for those who always fly one particular airline or stay with one hotel group.

How do we value points and miles? With the rewards earned on general travel cards, it's simple: They have a fixed value, usually between 1 and 1.5 cents per point, and you can spend them like cash. With airline miles and hotel points, finding the true value is more difficult. How much value you get depends on how you redeem them.

To better understand what miles are worth, NerdWallet researched the cash prices and reward-redemption values for hundreds of flights. Our results:

Keep in mind that the airline values are based on main cabin economy tickets and exclude premium cabin redemptions. See our valuations page for business class valuations and details about our methodology.

Our valuations are different from many others you may find. That’s because we looked at the average value of a point based on reasonable price searches that anyone can perform, not a maximized value that only travel rewards experts can expect to reach.

You should therefore use these values as a baseline for your own redemptions. If you can redeem your points for the values listed on our valuations page, you are doing well. Of course, if you are able to get higher value out of your miles, that’s even better.

HOW TO CHOOSE A TRAVEL CREDIT CARD

There are scores of travel rewards cards to choose from. The best travel credit card for you has as much to do with you as with the card. How often you travel, how much flexibility you want, how much you value airline or hotel perks — these are all things to take into account when deciding on a travel card. Our article on how to choose a travel credit card recommends that you prioritize:

Rewards you will actually use (points and miles are only as good as your ability to redeem them for travel).

A high earning rate (how much value you get in rewards for every dollar spent on the card).

A sign-up bonus (a windfall of points for meeting a spending requirement in your first few months).

Even with these goals in mind, there are all kinds of considerations that will influence your decision on a travel rewards credit card.

Travel cards are for travelers

Travel cards vs. cash-back cards.

The very first question to ask yourself when choosing a travel credit card is: Should I get a travel card at all? Travel credit cards are best for frequent travelers, who are more likely to get enough value from rewards and perks to make up for the annual fees that the best travel credit cards charge. (Some travel cards charge no annual fee, but they tend to offer lesser rewards than full-fee cards.) A NerdWallet study found that those who travel only occasionally — say, once a year — will probably get greater overall rewards from cash-back credit cards , most of which charge no annual fee, than from a travel card.

Flexibility and perks: A trade-off

Co-branded cards vs. general travel cards.

Travel credit cards fall into two basic categories: co-branded cards and general travel cards.

Co-branded cards carry the name of an airline or hotel group, such as the United℠ Explorer Card or the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card . The rewards you earn are redeemable only with that particular brand, which can limit your flexibility, sometimes sharply. For example, if your credit card's co-branded airline partner doesn't have any award seats available on the flight you want on the day you want, you're out of luck. On the other hand, co-branded cards commonly offer airline- or hotel-specific perks that general travel cards can't match.

General travel cards aren't tied to a specific airline or hotel, so they offer much greater flexibility. Well-known general travel cards include the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card . Rewards on general travel cards come as points (sometimes called "miles" but they're really points) that you can redeem for any travel expense. You're not locked into using a single airline or hotel, but you also won't enjoy the perks of a co-branded card.

Evaluating general travel credit cards

What you get with a general travel card.

The credit cards featured at the top of this page are general travel cards. They're issued by a bank (such as Chase or Capital One), carry only that bank's name, and aren't tied to any single airline or hotel group. With these cards, you earn points on every purchase — usually 1 to 2 points per dollar spent, sometimes with additional points in certain categories.

Issuers of general travel cards typically entice new applicants with big sign-up bonuses (also known as "welcome offers") — tens of thousands of miles that you can earn by spending a certain amount of money on the card in your first few months.

» MORE: NerdWallet's best credit card sign-up offers

What do you do with those points? Depending on the card, you may have several ways to redeem them:

Booking travel. With this option, your points pay for travel booked through the issuer's website, using a utility similar to Orbitz or Expedia. For example, if points were worth 1 cent apiece when redeemed this way, you could book a $400 flight on the issuer's portal and pay for it with 40,000 points

Statement credit. This lets you essentially erase travel purchases by using your points for credit on your statement. You make travel arrangements however you want (directly with an airline or hotel, through a travel agency, etc.) and charge it to your card. Once the charge shows up on your account, you apply the necessary points and eliminate the cost.

Transferring to partners. The card issuer may allow you to transfer your points to loyalty programs for airlines or hotel chains, turning your general card into something like a co-branded card (although you don't get the perks of a co-brand).

Cash back, gift cards or merchandise. If you don't plan to travel, you can burn off your rewards with these options, although you'll often get a lower value per point.

Airline and hotel cards sharply limit your choice, but they make up for it with perks that only they can offer, like free checked bags or room upgrades. General travel cards, on the other hand, offer maximum flexibility but can't provide the same kinds of perks, because the banks that issue them don't operate the airlines or hotels. Still, there are some noteworthy perks on general travel cards, including:

Travel credit. This is automatic reimbursement for travel-related spending. Some top travel credit cards offer hundreds of dollars a year in travel credit.

Trusted traveler reimbursement. More and more travel credit cards are covering the application fee for TSA Precheck and Global Entry, programs that allow you to move through airport security and customs more quickly.

Airport lounge access. Hundreds of lounges worldwide operate separately from airlines under such networks as Priority Pass and Airspace, and several general travel cards offer access to these lounges.

Points programs

Every major card issuer has at least one travel card with a points program. American Express calls its program Membership Rewards, while Chase has Ultimate Rewards® and Citi pays in ThankYou points. Wells Fargo has Wells Fargo Rewards, and U.S. Bank has FlexPerks. Bank of America® travel cards offer points without a fancy name. Travel cards from Capital One, Barclays and Discover all call their points "miles."

These programs differ in how much their points are worth and how you can use them. Some offer the full range of redemption options, including transfers to loyalty programs. Others let you use them only to book travel or get statement credit.

» MORE: Travel loyalty program reviews

Evaluating airline credit cards

What you get with an airline credit card.

Airline credit cards earn "miles" with each purchase. You typically get 1 mile per dollar spent, with a higher rate (2 or more miles per dollar) on purchases with the airline itself. (Some airline cards have also begun offering extra miles for purchases in additional categories, such as restaurants or car rental agencies.) These miles go into the same frequent-flyer account as the ones you earn by flying the airline, and you can redeem them for free flights with the airline or its alliance partners.

Co-branded airline cards typically offer sign-up bonuses (or welcome offers). But what really sets them apart are the perks they give you. With some cards, for example, the checked-bag benefit alone can make up for the annual fee after a single roundtrip by a couple. Common perks of airline cards include:

Free checked bags. This commonly applies to the first checked bag for you and at least one companion on your reservation. Some cards extend this perk to more people, and higher-end cards (with higher annual fees) may even let you check two bags apiece for free.

Priority boarding. Holders of co-branded airline credit cards often get to board the plane early — after the airline's elite-status frequent flyers but before the general population. This gives you time to settle in and gives you a leg up on claiming that coveted overhead bin space.

In-flight discounts or freebies. You might get, say, 25% off the cost of food and beverages during the flight, or free Wi-Fi.

Airport lounge access. High-end cards often include a membership to the airline's airport lounges, where you can get away from the frenzy in the terminal and enjoy a complimentary snack. Some less-expensive airline cards give you only limited or discounted lounge access; others give you none at all.

Companion fares. This perk lets you bring someone with you for a lower cost when you buy a ticket at full price.

A boost toward elite status. Miles earned with a credit card, as opposed to those earned from actually flying on the airline, usually do not count toward earning elite status in an airline's frequent-flyer program. However, carrying an airline's high-end card might automatically qualify you for a higher tier within the program.

The biggest U.S. airlines — American, United and Delta — offer an array of credit cards. Each airline has a no-annual-fee card that earns miles on purchases but provides little in the way of perks (no free bags or priority boarding). Each has a high-end card with an annual fee in the neighborhood of $450 that offers lounge access and sumptuous perks. And each has a "middle-class" card with a fee of around $100 and solid ongoing perks. Southwest offers three credit cards with varying fees; smaller carriers may just have a single card.

» MORE: NerdWallet's best airline credit cards

Choosing an airline

Which airline card you get depends in large part on what airline you fly, and that's heavily influenced by where you live. Alaska Airlines, for example, has an outstanding credit card, but the airline's routes are concentrated primarily on the West Coast. So it's not a great option for those who live in, say, Buffalo, New York, or Montgomery, Alabama.

If your local airport is dominated by a single airline, then you're probably flying that carrier most (or all) of the time by default. Delta, for example, is the 800-pound gorilla at Minneapolis-St. Paul and Salt Lake City. United has the bulk of the traffic at Newark and Washington Dulles. American calls the shots at Charlotte and Dallas-Fort Worth. That airline's credit card may be your only realistic option. If you're in a large or midsize market with frequent service from multiple airlines, you have more choice.

» MORE: How to choose an airline credit card

Evaluating hotel credit cards

What you get with a hotel card.

Hotel credit cards earn points with each purchase. As with airline cards, you typically get more points per dollar for purchases from the co-brand partner, and some cards also give bonus points in additional categories. (Hotel cards tend to give you a greater number of points overall than airline cards, but each individual point is generally worth less than a typical airline mile.) Similar to the airline model, the points you earn with the card go into the same loyalty account as the points you earn from actually staying at a hotel. You redeem your points for free stays.

Hotel cards usually offer a sign-up bonus, but like airline cards, they really make their bones with the ongoing perks. Common perks on hotel cards include:

Free nights. Several cards offer this perk, which can make up for the card's annual fee. You may get a free night automatically every year, or you may unlock it by spending a certain amount within a year. In the latter case, it comes on top of the points you earn for your spending.

Upgrades and freebies. Cardholders may qualify for automatic room upgrades when available, or free or discounted amenities such as meals or spa packages.

Early check-in/late check-out. No one likes having to cool their heels in the hotel lobby waiting for 3 o'clock to check in. And no one likes have to vacate their room by 11 a.m. when their flight doesn't leave till evening.

Accelerated elite status. Some hotel cards automatically bump you up a level in their loyalty program just for being a cardholder.

» MORE: NerdWallet's best hotel credit cards

Choosing a hotel group

If you decide to go the hotel-card route, you'll need to decide which hotel group gets your business. Hotels aren't as market-concentrated as airlines, so if your travels take you mostly to metropolitan areas, you'll have a decent amount of choice. Keep in mind that even though there are dozens of nationally recognizable hotel brands, ranging from budget inns to luxury resorts, many of them are just units in a larger hotel company, and that company's card can unlock benefits across the group.

Marriott, for example, includes not only its namesake properties but nearly 30 other brands, including Courtyard, Fairfield, Renaissance, Residence Inn, Ritz-Carlton, Sheraton and Westin. The Hilton family includes DoubleTree, Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn and Waldorf-Astoria. InterContinental includes Holiday Inn, Candlewood, Staybridge and Crowne Plaza. Wyndham and Choice have more than 15 mid-tier and budget-oriented brands between them.

HOW TO COMPARE TRAVEL CREDIT CARDS

No travel rewards credit card is going to have everything you want. You're going to be disappointed if you expect to find a high rewards rate, a generous sign-up bonus, top-notch perks and no annual fee. Each card delivers value through a different combination of features; it's up to you to compare cards based on the following features and choose the best travel credit card for your needs and preferences.

Most of the best travel cards charge an annual fee. Fees in the range of $90 to $100 are standard for travel cards. Premium cards with extensive perks will have fees of $450 or more. Weigh the value of the rewards and perks you'll get to make sure they'll make up for the fee.

Can you find good cards without an annual fee? Absolutely! There are no-fee options on our list of the best travel credit cards, and we've rounded up more here . Just be aware that if you go with a no-fee travel card, you'll earn rewards at a lower rate, your sign-up bonus will be smaller, and you won't get as many (if any) perks.

Rewards rate

Rewards can be thought of in terms of "earn rate" and "burn rate".

The earn rate is how many points or miles you receive per dollar spent. Some general travel cards offer flat-rate rewards, meaning you get the same rate on all purchases, all the time — 2 miles per dollar, for example, or 1.5 points per dollar. Others, including most co-branded cards, offer a base rate of maybe 1 point per dollar and then pay a higher rate in certain categories, such as airline tickets, hotel stays, general travel expenses or restaurant meals.

The burn rate is the value you get for those points or miles when you redeem them. The industry average is about 1 cent per point or mile. Some cards, particularly hotel cards, have lower value per point on the "burn" side but give you more points per dollar on the earning side.

When comparing rewards rates, don't just look at the numbers. Look at the categories to which those numbers apply, and find a card that matches your spending patterns. Getting 5 points per dollar seems great — but if those 5X points come only on purchases at, say, office supply stores, and you don't spend money on office supplies, then you're getting lousy value.

Sign-up bonus

Travel cards tend to have the biggest sign-up bonuses — tens of thousands of points that you earn by hitting a certain amount of spending. But there's more to consider when comparing sign-up bonuses than just how many points or miles you earn. You must also take into account how much you have to spend to earn the bonus. While cash-back credit cards often require just $500 to $1,000 in spending over three months to unlock a bonus, travel cards commonly have thresholds of $3,000 to $5,000.

Never spend money you don't have just to earn a sign-up bonus. Carrying $3,000 in debt for a year in order to earn a $500 bonus doesn't make economic sense — the interest you'll pay could easily wipe out the value of the bonus.

Finally, keep in mind that the biggest bonuses will come on cards with annual fees.

Foreign transaction fees

A good travel card will not charge a foreign transaction fee. These fees are surcharges on purchases made outside the U.S. The industry standard is about 3%, which is enough to wipe out most if not all of the rewards you earn on a purchase. If you never leave the U.S., then this isn't much of a concern, but anyone who travels abroad should bring a no-foreign-transaction-fee card with them.

Some issuers don't charge foreign transaction fees on any of their cards. Others charge them on some cards but not all.

International acceptance

Not all travel credit cards are great companions for international travel. While Visa and Mastercard are good pretty much worldwide, you may encounter limited acceptance for American Express and, especially, Discover, depending on the destination. This doesn't mean world travelers should dismiss AmEx and Discover. Just know that if you take one of these cards with you overseas, you'd be smart to bring along a backup in case you run into acceptance problems. (Having a backup card is good advice within the U.S., too, really.)

Travel protections

Consider which travel protections — car rental insurance , trip cancellation coverage , lost baggage protection — are important to you.

"Rewards" are what you get for using a credit card — the points earned with each transaction and the bonuses you unlock with your spending. "Perks" are goodies that you get just for carrying the card. There's a very close correlation between the annual fee on a card and the perks you get for carrying it. Cards with no annual fee are all about rewards and go very light on perks. Premium cards with annual fees of $450 or more are laden with perks (although sometimes their rewards aren't too special). Midtier cards (in the $100 range) tend to have solid rewards and a handful of high-value perks.

Assuming you take advantage of them, the perks often make up for the annual fee on a card quite easily. This is especially true with co-branded cards. Free checked bags can pay for an airline card several times over, and a free night is usually worth more than the fee on a hotel card. When comparing the perks of various cards, be realistic about which ones you will and won't use. Sure, that card may entitle you to a free spa package the next time you're at a five-star hotel, but how often do you stay at five-star hotels?

SHOULD YOU GET A TRAVEL CARD? PROS AND CONS

Pros: why it's worth getting a travel card.

The sign-up bonus gives you a big head-start on travel. Bonuses on the best travel credit cards typically run $500 or more — enough for a roundtrip ticket in many instances.

Perks make travel less expensive and more relaxing. You won't have to worry about cramming a week's worth of clothes into a carry-on if your travel credit card gives you a free checked bag (or automatically reimburses you for the bag fee). Hate the crush of travelers in the terminal? Escape to the airport lounge. Renting a car? Use a travel card that provides primary rental car insurance.

Rewards get you closer to your next trip with every purchase. Spending money on the mundane activities of daily life has a silver lining when you know that every $1,000 you spend will knock $10 or $20 off the cost of that future beach vacation or trip home to see Mom and Dad.

No foreign transaction fee can mean big savings. Take just any old credit card with you on vacation outside the U.S., and $1,000 worth of purchases can cost you $30 off the top due to the foreign transaction surcharge. Good travel cards don't charge this fee.

"Double dipping" gives you more points on travel purchases. Buy a plane ticket or book a hotel room, and you'll earn loyalty points or miles regardless of how you pay. Use the right credit card, though, and you'll earn even more points and miles on top of those.

Strategic redemption can multiply your value. With cash-back credit cards, 1 cent is worth 1 cent, and that's just how it goes. The points and miles on many travel credit cards have variable value based on how you redeem them — booking travel with them vs. transferring them to a partner, booking domestic vs. international flights and economy vs. business class, staying at budget hotels vs. high-end resorts, and so on.

Cons: Why a travel card might not be for you

The best cards charge annual fees. In many cases, the value you get from a credit card more than makes up for the annual fee. But some people are dead set against paying a fee under any circumstances. If that's you, your options in travel cards will be sharply limited, and you won't get the perks that provide a big portion of the value on many cards.

Sign-up bonus spending requirements can be steep. A bonus worth $500, $600 or $700 is attractive, but only if you can afford to earn it with spending you were going to do anyway. If you have to amass thousands of dollars in debt and then pay interest on it, it's not worth it.

Travel cards aren't ideal for infrequent travelers. In the first year with a travel card, you're probably going to come out ahead: You can earn a big sign-up bonus, and several popular cards waive the first year's annual fee, too. In subsequent years, though, you'll break even on that fee only if you use the card enough to make up for it (with the rewards you earn and redeem and the perks you use). Infrequent travelers are more likely to get more total rewards from a cash-back card with no annual fee.

Cash back is simpler and more flexible. Some travel cards allow you to redeem your rewards only for travel. Others give you poor value unless you redeem for travel. Still others have complicated redemption options, making it hard to get the most out of your rewards. With cash-back credit cards, you can use your rewards on anything, you know exactly how much your rewards are worth, and redemption is usually simple.

Rewards cards tend to charge higher interest rates. If you regularly carry a balance from month to month, a travel credit card — or any rewards credit card — probably isn't your best choice. The interest you pay is eating up the value of your rewards. You're better off with a low-interest card that reduces the cost of carrying debt.

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR TRAVEL CARD

Maximize your rewards with the following tips:

Plan your credit card application around a big purchase to earn the sign-up bonus.

Seize every opportunity to pick up the tab, especially if your travel credit card pays bonus rewards on dining; your friends can pay you back while you collect rewards.

Redeem rewards for travel instead of gift cards, merchandise or (in most cases) cash back to get the best value.

Join the loyalty program associated with a co-branded card — a frequent-flyer or frequent-guest program.

Shop for essentials in your card’s online bonus mall or through its exclusive offers, if available, to get extra rewards.

OTHER CARDS TO CONSIDER

It’s worth considering whether a travel credit card is even right for you in the first place. A NerdWallet study found that cash-back credit cards often earn more money — even for many travelers.

If you carry a balance from month to month, the higher interest rates typically charged by rewards cards can cancel out any rewards earned. If you have a good credit score, you're better off with a low-interest credit card that can save you money on interest.

A good travel credit card shouldn't charge foreign transaction fees, but there are good non-travel cards that also don't charge them. See our best cards with no foreign transaction fee .

If you value transparency and flexibility in your rewards, you can't go wrong with a cash-back card — and you can still use the rewards for travel, if you want.

Finally, if you're still not sure what's right for you, take a look at our best rewards credit cards for options beyond travel and cash back.

NerdWallet's Sam Kemmis contributed to this article.

To view rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card , see this page . To view rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express , see this page .

Last updated on May 5 , 2024

Methodology

NerdWallet's Credit Cards team selects the best travel rewards credit cards based on overall consumer value, as evidenced by star ratings, as well as their suitability for specific kinds of travelers. Factors in our evaluation include each card's annual fee, foreign transaction fees, rewards earnings rates, ease of use, redemption options, domestic and international acceptance, promotional APR period, bonus offers, and cardholder perks such as automatic statement credits and airport lounge access. Learn how NerdWallet rates credit cards.

Frequently asked questions

Travel credit cards earn points (sometimes called miles) each time you buy something. The standard earning rate is 1 to 2 points per dollar spent, and many cards give you extra points for certain purchases, particularly travel expenses. The value of a point depends on the card that earned it and how you redeem it, but a good rule of thumb is to assume each point is worth an average of about 1 cent.

Your points accumulate in a rewards account, where you can use them to pay for travel. Most cards let you book travel directly using a portal similar to those at online travel agencies or on airline and hotel websites, but instead of paying cash, you pay with your points. Depending on the card, you may also have the option of booking travel any way you want, paying for it with the card and then cashing in your points for a credit against those expenses.

Points and miles are just different names for the same thing: the currency used in a travel rewards program. Some travel credit cards call them points, some call them miles.

Airline frequent flyer programs have long used the term “miles” to refer to the rewards you earn for flying. That’s because at one time, you really did earn rewards according to how many miles you flew — the longer the flight, the more miles you earned. Nowadays, most domestic airlines give out “miles” based on how much you spend, not how far you fly, so they’re really just points. (There are a few exceptions, though, notably Alaska Airlines.)

Especially when it comes to redeeming your rewards, there’s no difference between points and miles. The number of points or miles you need is based mostly on the cost of what you’re redeeming them for. It takes more than 500 miles (value about: $5) to get a free 500-mile flight!

The value of a point or mile depends on the card you earned it with and how you redeem it. A common rule of thumb is to assume that each point or mile is worth an average of 1 cent, although you can certainly get a much higher (or lower) redemption value. See our travel loyalty roundup page for NerdWallet’s current valuations for airline miles and hotel points.

Travel credit cards fall into two main categories: co-branded and general-purpose.

• Co-branded travel cards carry the name of an airline or hotel chain. The rewards you earn on the card can typically be redeemed only with that brand (or maybe its partners). Co-branded cards limit your flexibility, but because they are issued in partnership with an airline or hotel, they can give you special perks, like free checked bags or room upgrades.

• General-purpose travel cards are issued by a credit card company and are not directly tied to any particular airline or hotel. They earn points in the issuer's own program, such as American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards® or Citi ThankYou. These points are a lot more flexible, as you can use them to pay for a range of travel expenses, including flights on any airline or stays at any hotel. However, they don’t offer the airline- or hotel-specific perks of co-branded cards.

Travel cards — like rewards cards in general — typically require good to excellent credit for approval. Good credit is generally defined as a credit score of 690 or better. However, credit scores alone do not guarantee approval. Every issuer has its own criteria for evaluating applications.

Business travel can earn credit card rewards just like leisure travel. Credit cards that earn rewards for travel purchases don't distinguish between one or the other — meaning, if a card pays 3X points on airfare, for example, it's going to pay it no matter why you're buying the ticket. There are also travel credit cards specifically designed for business operators, with benefits and perks better aligned with their needs.

Where things get complicated is when you're not arranging the travel yourself. With credit card points, the rewards go to the cardholder. So if you arrange travel through your employer and the cost goes on the "company card," then the company card gets the points. Put it on your own card and get reimbursed later, and you get the points. (And if you have a company card with your name on it? That may come down to company policy.)

When redeeming travel rewards, you want to get as much value as possible. If you can get more value by using your rewards than by using cash, then it's smart to do so. (And of course, the reverse also applies.) NerdWallet has calculated the baseline values of most major credit card points, airline miles and hotel points. When you get a value that exceeds these baselines, go ahead and use your rewards. If not, consider using cash.

For example, say you could book a trip by paying $400 cash for a ticket or by redeeming 50,000 points or miles. In that case, your points would be getting you a value of 0.8 cents apiece (50,000 x 0.8 cents = $400). If the baseline value of each point is 1 cent, then you're better off paying cash and saving the points for when you can redeem them for 1 cent or better.

That said, you don't want to be overthinking it and hoarding points indefinitely in search of the deal to end all deals. Like any other currency, travel rewards lose value over time. That flight that costs 50,000 points today might cost 55,000 next year. Do you have enough points to get you where you want to go, when you want to go, in the way you want to get there? If so, don't let fractions of a penny stop you from booking your trip. It's your money, and you get to decide how to spend it.

A number of travel credit cards come with "travel credits," which reimburse you for specific expenses. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® , for example, has a $300 annual travel credit; several cards offer credits toward things like airline fees or hotel bookings; and a bunch of cards have a credit for the application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry .

The less restrictive a credit is, the easier it is to redeem. The easiest travel credit to redeem is one that:

Applies to a broad range of expenses. Some credits are very fickle. You may get $200 a year in "airline credit," but it applies only to incidental fees (not airfare) on a single airline that you have to choose ahead of time. A card may offer hundreds of dollars in credit toward travel, but you have to go through the issuer's booking portal, where rates may be more expensive and options more limited. Other credits, however, are broad and open-ended: $300 on any travel expense, $100 toward any airline booking, and so on.

Shows up automatically on your statement. Your issuer's system should be able to recognize qualifying expenses and then apply the credit to them without you having to do anything. If the only way to receive the credit is by calling a phone number or submitting receipts or other documentation, that makes it harder to redeem, which in turn makes it less likely that you'll redeem (and that may be the point).

About the author

Sara Rathner

UponArriving

Best Strategies and Credit Cards for Couples Who Travel [2020]

Couples have a distinct advantage in award travel because they can double up in many ways.  In this article, I’ve listed some different strategies that couples can use to leverage credit card benefits for travel. I’ve also put together  a list of some of the best credit cards for couples who travel.

Table of Contents

Mix up the bonus categories

One great way to maximize the earnings with your points is to get credit cards that have the optimal earning rates in each major bonus category (dining, groceries, gas, travel, etc.). The issue is that this can be difficult to do with rules like the Chase 5/24 rule. But when you are playing this with two people it is much easier to spread the earnings across multiple cards.

Your wallet as a couple could look like this:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred or Sapphire Reserve : 2X/3X on dining and travel
• Amex Gold: 4X at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets;
• Amex Business Blue Plus: 2X on all purchases up to $50,000 each year
• Chase Ink Cash: 5X on categories like telecom and office supply stores
• Chase Freedom: 5X on rotating categories
• Amex Platinum: 5X on airfare

The Chase Ink Cash and the Chase Freedom are especially great for couples since you can get around their spending limits for the bonus categories. For example, the Freedom limits you to 5X on certain categories up to $1,500 per quarter and the Chase Ink Cash has $25,000 limits. Getting two of those essentially doubles your earning potential.

Tip: Use WalletFlo for all your credit card needs. It’s free and will help you optimize your rewards and savings!

Increased award inventory

With a card like the United Explorer Card you can get access to increased award inventory which can make it easier to use your miles for award tickets when trying to book for two.

Hotel benefits

Since you can use your hotel points to book a room that two people can use, hotel credit cards obviously offer you the chance to cover travel for the two of you. But beyond covering rooms for two, there are some specific benefits couples can use.

Free nights

So many credit cards offer you a annual free night either on a complementary basis or after a certain amount of spend. As a couple you can simply combine your annual free nights and use them together to cover a full weekend. In some cases, like with IHG free nights, It might be possible to overlap the annual free night so that you could cover a total of four nights between two people. 

Resort credits

Some premium hotel credit cards offer resort credits worth a couple of hundred bucks. You can combine resort credits to cover luxurious and romantic experiences at top resorts. For example, we recently used two $250 Hilton Aspire resort credits to cover a massage and romantic dinner on the beach at the Hilton Playa del Carmen.

Hotel elite status

Both members of a couple can benefit with hotel elite benefits. Upgrades are usually limited to the room booked and breakfast and lounge access is usually available to two occupants in the room, so from a couple’s perspective, hotel elite status is a benefit for two.

When playing as a couple, you can mix-up your hotel elite programs since so many credit cards offer automatic hotel status. One person might go for Hilton Diamond while another might go for a mid tier status like Marriott Gold . With two people it’s also not that difficult to get status with all the major programs like: IHG, Hyatt, Hilton, and Marriott.

And even if you’re not traveling, you can add your partner to the itinerary and they usually can take advantage of the elite perks.

Luxury hotel programs

Cards like the Amex Platinum offer you benefits like the Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts which allows you to receive elite-like perks  such as:

• Noon check-in, when available
• Guaranteed 4pm late check-out
• Room upgrade upon arrival, when available
• Daily breakfast for two people
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Special amenity unique to each property

In some cases, you can make short reservations for each of you and get the special amenity twice. If you’re hoping to hit the spa up every couple of days, that could mean several hundred dollars worth of free spa treatment. Some couples do this Bonnie and Clyde style and check in and out of a hotel every night but that’s taking things to the extreme and could lead to some awkward encounters.

Companion Passes

The Southwest Companion Pass is practically designed for couples. With this pass, you and your partner can fly around for free for up to two calendar years. Southwest is now flying to Hawaii and to many international destinations so this pass is also perfect for couples looking to get away to tropical destinations.

Visa Infinite

There is also a companion pass for some Visa Infinite cards like the UBS Visa Infinite credit card where you can get $100 off a roundtrip economy flight (per itinerary) when booking for two to five people. It’s not a huge savings but it could certainly add up for a busy couple.

The Alaska Card also comes with a companion fare. The Alaska Airlines companion fare entitles the cardholder to purchase one round-trip coach companion fare on Alaska Airlines from $121 (USD) ($99 base fare plus applicable taxes and fees from $22 depending on your flight itinerary) when traveling with another guest on a paid published coach airfare on the same itinerary, booked at the same time.

Aviator Red

The Aviator Red (American Airlines) will allow you to earn a companion certificate when you spend $20,000 on the card in a given year. The certificate will cover a companion ticket in economy but you’ll need to pay $99 plus taxes/fees, which is very similar to the Alaska option.

There’s also a British Airways companion ticket I talk more about below and Delta has some companion offers attached to some of their cards as well.

Amtrak Guest Rewards Mastercard

Get a complimentary Companion Coupon upon account opening and each year when you renew your card membership.

Transferring points

Being able to transfer points freely to each other is going to make your life much easier in many cases. Programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards are great for this and as long as you live at the same residence, you can transfer your points freely to each other.

In other cases (such as with American Express) you might have to add your partner as an authorized user to your card to transfer points to them but it could definitely be worth it if you were trying to make a redemption.

Transferring points between partners can also be done with a lot of hotel programs like Hilton, Marriott, etc.

Protections

If your card has certain protections such as travel protections for purchase protections, you can use your card for your spouse or partner as well. For example, for trip cancellation for the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase states the following members are covered:

You, the Primary Insured Person, and your Immediate Family Members are automatically covered. Immediate Family Member means your Spouse or Domestic Partner and their children, including adopted children or step-children; legal guardians or wards; siblings or siblings-in-law; parents or parents-in-law; grandparents or grandchildren; aunts or uncles; nieces or nephews.

Lounge access

Many credit cards offer lounge access for your self and up to two guests. So in a lot of cases your partner won’t even have to apply for a credit card that offers lounge access and they can still take advantage of it when they are with you.

Once you get approved for certain cards, you can use the referral system to rack up more points. You can refer each other and since there are two of you, you will get more referral slots to earn more points. Plus, you may have in-laws to refer, too.

(Just watch out for those taxes!)

Staying below 5/24

If you are bold enough to try to stay below 5/24 it is much easier to do as a couple. If you can plan out your applications so that you are only applying for a card every few months and mix in business credit card applications then getting below 5/24 is actually more obtainable than you might think.

The 10 Best Credit Cards for Couples who Travel

1. the chase sapphire preferred.

• 60,000 Ultimate Rewards after spending $4,000 within the first 3 months
• 2X on dining and travel
• Redeem points at 1.25 cents per point through Chase Travel Portal
• Primary rental car insurance
• Annual fee: $95

The Chase Sapphire Preferred has a great new sign-up bonus of 60,000 Ultimate Rewards after spending $4,000 within the first 3 months. This is one of the best sign-up bonuses ever offered by the Sapphire Preferred.   

If you want to stay at an all-inclusive resort like the Hyatt Ziva on a romantic get-a-way, you can transfer your points out to Hyatt and cover a couple of nights. And as mentioned above, you can transfer your Ultimate Rewards to each other very easily.

It’s also great for couples because it has a low annual fee of $95. A lot of couples don’t like to pay more than one high annual fee for their credit cards so the Sapphire Preferred is perfect for those couples and still earns great rewards at 2X on dining and travel.

If you are okay with the higher annual fee then the Chase Sapphire Reserve might be a great option too. You’ll earn better bonus with 3X on dining and travel but the annual fee is higher at $550.

2. Southwest Premier Card

• 40,000 points after spending $1,000 within the first 3 months
• $99 Annual fee
• 6,000 anniversary points
• Perfect for getting the Southwest Companion Pass

Although the travel benefit to couples is usually in the form of hotel points, the best credit card for couples is actually a combination of two Southwest cards: the Southwest Premier (or other personal) and the Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card . That’s because with those two cards, you can earn the coveted Southwest Companion Pass, which allows someone to fly for free with you for up to two calendar years.

The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card can also be a great option for couples because  you can get reimbursed for up to four upgrades to Business Select each year. This would allow you and your partner to get a better seat with more legroom or to lock down a row in a 737 that only has two seats so you’re not rubbing elbows with other folks.

3. Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card

• 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio worldwide
• 6X Hilton Honors Bonus Points at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. restaurants, and U.S. gas stations
• 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on all other eligible purchases
• 10 free priority pass lounge passes
• One Weekend Night Reward at a hotel or resort in the Hilton portfolio after spending $15,000 in purchases in a calendar year
• Automatic Hilton Honors Gold status
• No foreign transaction fees
• $95 annual fee

This card will be perfect option for couples who want to stay at Hilton properties. If you think that you can put $30,000 a year on two of these cards as a couple, then you can receive two free night certificates that can be used on any level Hilton property .

So you could redeem for two free nights at the Hilton Conrad in the Maldives where prices each night could be near $1,000. Even if you don’t redeem them at such an aspirational location, you still can easily get $400+ worth of value from these certificates.

You’ll also get Hilton Honors Gold status that can save you money by offering you free breakfasts and internet. When it comes to co-branded hotel cards for couples, the Ascend is a great option.

4. The Chase Freedom Unlimited

• Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months.
• 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target® or Walmart® purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year; 1.5% back after that on all other purchases.
• No annual fee

For the couple who doesn’t want to trouble with keeping up with special bonus categories on different credit cards, the Chase Freedom Unlimited is a solid option.  5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target® or Walmart® purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year, great to pair with the Sapphire Preferred so that you’ll be able to transfer your points out to travel partners if that’s what you’d like to do.

There’s also another Chase Freedom that earns 5% back on rotating categories like groceries, gas, department stores, home improvement stores, and many other categories. The 5% back is capped at $1,500 worth of spend but it’s still a great way for couples to earn a lot of rewards.

5. Amex EveryDay Preferred

Amex EveryDay Preferred Credit Card earns points on bonus categories that many couples can cash in on if they are doing a lot of driving and spending money at supermarkets.

The Amex EveryDay Preferred earns the following bonus rates:

• 3x points at US supermarkets (On up to $6,000 in purchases per year)
• 2x points at US gas stations
• 1x points on other purchases

But in addition to these rates, it earns when you use your card 30 or more times on purchases in a billing period you get 50% more points on those purchases! That’s like earning 4.5X Membership Rewards per dollar at grocery stores. If you value Membership Rewards at 1.8 cents per point that’s like getting over 8% back on grocery store spend which is pretty phenomenal.

6. Hilton Honors American Express Aspire

• 14X Hilton Honors Bonus Points at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio worldwide
• 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies and at U.S. restaurants
• 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on other purchases
• Complimentary Hilton Honors Diamond status
• One weekend night at any hotel or resort in the Hilton portfolio (upon opening account and on account anniversary)
• Weekend night after spending $60,000 on the card within a calendar year
• Unlimited Priority Pass membership
• $250 airline incidental fee statement credit
• $250 Hilton resort statement credit
• $100 on property credit at Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts and Conrad Hotels & Resorts when booking the exclusive Aspire Card package
• $450 Annual Fee 

This Hilton card will also be great for couples looking to stay at Hilton properties. Because this is a premium card with such a high annual fee, it might be best that only one person get this card. Since Hilton points can be easily transferred to a spouse, the person holding this card should receive all of the Hilton points and make the bookings. That’s because they will have Hilton Honors Diamond elite status which will provide free premium internet, executive lounge access, free breakfast, and better odds at getting nice upgrade to suites.

The Hilton Aspire also offers a free night certificate each year and upon account opening. So it’s like getting 195,000 Hilton points as a welcome bonus which is tremendous. If you combine that with 100,000 points from the Ascend, you’d have enough rewards to cover a few nights at some of the top hotels in the world!

This card also offers Priority Pass which will get you into over 1,000 airport lounges free of charge. And finally, if the annual fee is a turn off, be sure to consider the travel credits this card offers which could easily offset the cost of the annual fee. With all the free nights and potential upgrades this card offers, it has to be in the discussion for the best travel credit card for couples.

• You can read my full review on this card here .

And if you’re struggling to decide between the Hilton Ascend and Aspire, read my comparison of the two cards here.

7. Chase World of Hyatt Visa

• 25,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn an additional 25,000 Bonus Points after you spend a total of $6,000 on purchases within the first 6 months of account opening
• Plus, 1 free night every year after your cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 property
• Automatic Hyatt Discoverist status

The Chase World of Hyatt Card is really perfect for couples when it offers two free nights for its sign-up bonus. Right now, it doesn’t offer that but you still can get up to 50,000 points and that can be worth over $1,000 at several top-tier properties.

For example, I just booked two nights at the  Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme and nights were going for  €638 or $778 . For 30,000 Hyatt points per night, I received 2.6 cents per point, which means that 40,000 points gave me  $1,040 of value. 

If you combined forces with your partner then you could net over $2,000 worth value from this card. Plus, each of you will get a free night certificate each year which can be used on properties in categories 1 through 4 . These free nights can be great for quick weekend get-a-ways, though Hyatt’s limited foot print can cause some issues with finding properties some times.

8. The Amex Platinum

• 75,000 miles after spending $5,000 within the first 3 months (there are even methods to get 100K offers)
• 5X on airfare and 5X on hotels booked through the Amex Travel portal
• Priority Pass access  for you and two guests
• Centurion lounges access  for you and two guests
• Delta SkyClub access when flying with Delta
• TSA Pre-Check/ Global Entry $100 credit
• Annual fee: $550 (NOT waived first year)

The Amex Platinum Card is a great card for couples for a number of reasons.

It grants  Centurion lounges access  to you and up to two guests so you and your partner can get access to nice airport lounges when you’re traveling through airports. You’ll also get  Priority Pass access  for you and two guests and Delta SkyClub access when flying with Delta.

Another great perk is the elite status with Hilton.  Hilton Honors Gold elite status  will get you upgrades, free breakfast, late check-out and even lounge access sometimes.

9. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

• Earn 50,000 bonus miles once you spend $3,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
• An additional 50,000 bonus miles if you spend a total of $20,000 within the first 12 months
• Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
• 10X on Hotels.com purchases
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, $95 after that

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is an all-purpose travel rewards credit card. This type of card can cover your random travel expenses like taxi rides, trains, award tickets fees, and many others. As a couple, you could each get this card and be able to “erase” $1,000 worth of travel expenses. For all of those couples who like to travel for as close to free as much as possible, this card is an excellent option.

10. United Explorer Card

• 2 miles per $1 spent on tickets purchased from United
• Free Checked Bag
• Priority Boarding
• Anniversary United Club Passes
• Miles Don’t Expire
• MileagePlus Premier members  and traveling on an award ticket can receive Premier Upgrades
• $95 annual fee (waived the first year)

The United Explorer Card is great for couples who live near United hubs since you’ll be able to capitalize on the United miles. But what really makes it a compelling option for couples is that you can utilize the two Club Lounge passes each year to enjoy a nice airport lounge visit.

You’ll be able to get a free checked bag for the primary cardmember and one companion (valued at $100 for a roundtrip). So each time you fly United you and your partner won’t have to worry about paying baggage fees if you each only have one checked bag.

And finally this card offers increased award seats so you’ll get access to more award seats than the public, which can be very handy when trying to find award seats opened up as a couple.

Another great perk about every Chase United credit card is that they allow you to earn an additional 25% on MPX App purchases.  Learn more about maximizing earnings on the MPX App  HERE . 

11. British Airways Visa

The British Airways Visa Signature Card allows you to earn a companion ticket that can work out great for couples. When you make $30,000 in purchases on your British Airways Visa card, you’ll earn a Travel Together Ticket good for two years. The Travel Together Ticket gives you a second seat for a companion, on the same flight and in the same cabin when you book a reward flight on a British Airways mainline flight originating in and returning to the United States.  This can save you a lot of Avios but you’ll still have to pay the fees which can be a bit pricey. 

Many of these credit cards are hotel cards because those are the best to maximize for couples since both members of the couple can utilize the perks. But many of the airline credit cards are designed for couples and can offer real value for them with perks like free checked baggage and lounge passes.

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

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6 Best Credit Cards for Couples

Couples can team up to get the most out of their credit card rewards.

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You have several different options for working together on using credit.

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You know what they say about couples who spend together? Actually, there's really no saying for that, but there are a few smart strategies to help you and your partner maximize credit cards as a team. Being on the same financial page is important for both your relationship and your financial future – and being strategic with credit cards can help stretch your budget and fund new memories.

Before getting into the best credit cards for couples, here are few things to keep in mind.

Decide How to Couple Your Credit 

As a twosome, you'll have to figure out which credit card scenario works best for your relationship.

• Become joint account holders. With this arrangement, each person is a primary account holder who can make charges on the card, but both parties are responsible for the balance accumulated. On the one hand, it can be an easy way to manage shared expenses, but proceed with caution, warns Mallory Baska, money coach and founder of Fueling Financial Freedom. "If your finances are not combined, I do not recommend joint credit cards," she says. With joint credit cards , each person's individual credit score is impacted even if one party racks up a big bill or forgets to make the payment. It can also be hard to decouple from a joint card should the relationship end.
• Add your partner as an authorized user. In this scenario, there is a primary cardholder who retains account control and responsibility and an authorized user who can make purchases with the card. The main cardholder is ultimately liable for the card's balance. Going this route could be helpful if that authorized user wants to piggyback on the partner's good credit in order to improve the user's own. If you plan on taking a mortgage or other loan together in the future, each person's credit will come into play.
• Keep things separate. There's no rule that says you have to share a credit card just because you're a couple. If each person stays responsible for his or her own card, you won't have to worry about impacting each other's credit scores. But it's still a good idea to be transparent and have regular money conversations.

Pool Your Plastic Power

Whether you have joint or separate accounts, there are ways to work together to share in some benefits and rewards. Here are some strategies to consider.

• Points sharing. Depending on the card program, you may be able to transfer points to another cardholder such as your spouse or domestic partner. For example, Chase Ultimate Rewards allows you to transfer points to other Chase cardholders in your household whose accounts are in good standing. The Citi ThankYou® Rewards program is even more flexible in that you can share points with any other member, even outside your household. American Express Membership Rewards , however, are not transferable.

Referral programs. Some credit card issuers provide referral bonuses. "Oftentimes couples use one card. There's nothing wrong with this, but it's not the best solution for optimizing points," says Baska. "The sign-up bonuses and referral rewards are where you score big." She recommends keeping watch for large sign-up bonuses on your favorite cards and then referring your partner to sign up for the same card during that time. That way you both score the sign-up bonus , plus you get a referral bonus.

Chase cards have referral bonuses ranging from $50 to 20,000 points for each person you refer who signs up. And Discover's refer-a-friend bonus offers $50 to $100 statement credit for both you and your friend. So if you get your spouse or partner to sign up, it can total as much as $100 to $200.

Complementary cards. Baska and her husband covered a large part of their "babymoon" trip – around $5,600 – by using credit card rewards from two different cards. Their flight was covered thanks to their Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card points and Companion Pass, which provides a free flight for your traveling partner. They then converted their Chase Sapphire Reserve points to the World of Hyatt loyalty program to cover a stay in a boutique hotel during peak season. "My husband and I use these cards to travel for free often," says Baska.

Think about what type of card combo might work best. It could be that one person uses a hotel card and one uses an airline card . Or one partner can focus on earning cash back on everyday purchases like groceries and gas while the other earns flexible points that can be used toward travel or gift cards.

Spend Responsibly Together – and Individually

If both you and your partner are account holders of cards that earn rewards or cash back, simply using those cards in your everyday lives can be beneficial, says Steve Azoury, chartered financial consultant and owner of Azoury Financial. "However, you never want to spend more than you can afford just to obtain rewards. You should only be spending what you can afford to pay off at the end of each month."

If you and your significant other are in the market for a new credit card to complement your finances, here are some picks to consider.

For Date Night Rewards: Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card 

This no-annual-fee card offers 3% cash back on dining and entertainment purchases, as well as on popular streaming and grocery purchases for those date nights in, ( See Rates & Fees ). You'll also get some cool Uber benefits if you like having chauffeured date nights, including a free Uber One membership and 10% cash back on Uber and Uber Eats.

For Planning an Anniversary Trip: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card  

Though it has a $95 annual fee, the sign-up bonus alone can provide $750 in value if you spend $4,000 in the first three months of account opening and redeem in the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. With lots of travel transfer partners and redemption options, the rewards can help cover flights, hotels and more. You'll get three points per dollar on dining and takeout, online grocery orders and streaming services, plus two points per dollar on other travel purchases.

For Instagram-Worthy Experiences: Citi Premier® Card

If you and your partner love concerts, dining experiences and interesting events, this card's Citi Entertainment benefits can help you make unique memories together. Citi Premier® is also a pretty versatile rewards card, earning three points per dollar spent at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and on air travel and hotels. The annual fee is $95, but you can earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou points if you spend $4,000 in the first three months of account opening.

"If you value experiences and don't want to be caught in the bottleneck of Ticketmaster while trying to score your tickets, cards with presale benefits will pay off big time," says Baska.

For Making a Home Together: Wells Fargo Reflect Card  

This card offers 21 months of 0% annual percentage rate on purchases and balance transfers, for no annual fee. This might be a good solution if you want to furnish a new apartment together or need to get your credit in shape before you apply for a mortgage. Using the balance transfer can help you make faster progress on another card's lingering debt – which can in turn help improve your credit score. While this card does not offer rewards, the savings on interest can be valuable.

"A 0% APR introductory offer can help you stay out of debt, as long as you're paying it off in full before the offer expires," says Azoury.

For the Jet-Setting Couple: Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card

This card offers the rare but highly coveted Companion Pass perk – you'll need 135,000 points – that lets that special someone fly with you free of airline charges for a year. You'll start off with a 50,000-point sign-up bonus if you spend $1,000 in the first three months of account opening, and then enjoy ongoing perks like early bird check-in and 25% back on in-flight purchases. The card has a $69 annual fee.

For Couples with Kids: Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express

After no annual fee the first year, this one has a $95 annual fee, but if you're constantly buying groceries for your family, you'll earn a whopping 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 and on streaming services. You'll also get 3% on transit and at U.S. gas stations, perfect if you're a commuter or constantly carting the kids around. Keep watch for Amex Offers, too, as opting into various discounts can help you earn cash back from online retailers, restaurants and more – perfect when shopping for Valentine's Day, back to school or celebrating your sweetheart's birthday.

Tags: credit cards , cash back credit cards , rewards credit cards , sign-up bonus credit cards

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4 Min Read | Updated January 19, 2024

Originally Published: January 31, 2020

Do Couples Benefit from Sharing Travel Credit Cards?

There are many benefits to adding your significant other as an authorized user. Find out the pros and cons of sharing credit cards to earn travel points.

This article contains general information and is not intended to provide information that is specific to American Express products and services. Similar products and services offered by different companies will have different features and you should always read about product details before acquiring any financial product.

At-A-Glance

Couples can share travel credit cards by making one person the primary card member and the other an authorized user.

The pluses of sharing include lower annual fees and faster accumulation of shared credit card points.

But there are pros and cons in sign-up bonuses, benefits eligibility, and payment responsibility.

One of the essential—though perhaps less-romantic—aspects of achieving domestic bliss is deciding which aspects of your financial lives you’ll share and which you’ll keep separate. Do you share cell-phone accounts, bank accounts, and car payments? Well, if you both like to travel, here’s another financial sharing decision: Should you share travel credit cards or each have your own?

You can use travel credit cards to quickly earn reward points through everyday spending, and then cash in those points for free flights, hotel stays, or perhaps even most of this year’s vacation. 1 Of course, couples need twice as many points to travel together, but they also have twice the ability to earn those points.

In general, there are two options for how to organize your travel card accounts as a couple.

• You each get your own travel credit card and operate it independently, earning and redeeming your own stash of points.
• You share a credit card, with one of you acting as the primary card member and the other named as an authorized user . 2 In general, such additional card members typically receive a physical card that works with the primary cardholder’s account; as they spend with the card, the points they earn accumulate in that account, and they’re usually entitled to some of the card’s benefits. 2

There are pros and cons to each approach, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some of the main points to consider.

1. Annual Fees

If you have one shared account with a primary cardholder and an additional authorized user, the annual fees are generally lower than if you operate two individual accounts. That’s because the annual fee for an added authorized user can be much less than the primary cardholder’s account fee. So a primary plus an added user usually costs less than two separate accounts. 2,3 In some cases, you may even be able to add authorized users for free. 3

2. Sign-up Bonuses

Some cards offer tempting sign-up bonuses of tens of thousands of points if you spend a certain amount in the first few months of owning the card. 4 If you each have your own credit card, you have the opportunity as a couple to win two of these juicy bonuses. On the other hand, if you share the same travel card, your joint spending adds up faster, increasing the likelihood that you’ll quickly reach the bonus threshold and get at least one bonus per couple.

3. Benefits Eligibility

Some travel credit cards offer a wide variety of perks such as access to airport lounges, free car rental insurance, and credits against airline fees. 1 Some of these perks may be available to every authorized user of a single card account, while other benefits are available only to the primary cardholder or consist of a single cash credit per account. 3,5 So when deciding whether to share travel cards, it makes sense to think about how your decision affects your ability to take advantage of the benefits that you feel are most important.

4. Payment Control and Responsibility

Typically, only the primary cardholder is responsible for paying the monthly credit card bill, even if there are multiple additional authorized users of the account. 2,5 The primary cardholder may also have correspondingly more control, including the ability to set spending limits for authorized users. 2

5. Flexibility in Redeeming Points

If you share a credit card, you both contribute to a single, bigger hoard of travel points, which may provide more flexibility in how you use those points. Let’s say you want to fly together to Hawaii. But if you pool your points in a single account, you might have enough for two flights. With separate travel card accounts, one of you might have more than enough points for a ticket while the other doesn’t have enough.

6. Account Management

The more accounts you have, the more financial information you need to track. Experts suggest that if you accumulate several credit cards with or without authorized users, it’s a good idea to use tools such as a spreadsheet to track information like balances, payment dates, and who’s an authorized user on which account. 6

7. Best of Both Worlds?

If you can handle the extra annual fees and tracking effort, it may make sense for each of you to apply for your own travel card and add the other person as an authorized user. That approach provides the flexibility to pool credit card points when it makes sense and keep them separate when it’s beneficial to do so.

Travel Credit Cards for Couples: To Share, or Not to Share?

• Lower annual fees 2,3
• Potential to earn the sign-up bonus faster 4
• More flexibility in redeeming points

 Why Keep Separate:

• Double sign-up bonuses
• Full card benefits for each partner
• You each control your own card

The Takeaway

Couples generally can choose whether to maintain separate travel credit card accounts or share a single account, with one person as the primary cardholder and the other an authorized user. Each approach has pros and cons, and the choice depends largely on each couple’s needs and preferences. For some couples, it may make sense for each person to have an account and add the other as an authorized user.

Show Article Sources

1 “ How Do Travel Credit Cards Work? ,” Experian

2 “ Credit Card Authorized User: What You Need to Know ,” Experian

3 “ 9 Common Credit Cards Fees ,” Experian

4 “ What Is a Welcome Bonus on a Credit Card? ,” Experian

5 “ What Rights Do You Have as an Authorized User on a Credit Card? ,” Experian

6 “ How to Manage Multiple Rewards Credit Cards ,” Experian

Mike Faden has covered business and technology issues for more than 30 years as a writer, consultant, and analyst for media brands, market-research firms, startups and established corporations.

All  Credit Intel  content is written by freelance authors and commissioned and paid for by American Express. 

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Why the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Ink Business Preferred combo is perfect for couples who travel

Editor's Note

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® and the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card are two of our favorite travel rewards cards . Most travelers only get one of these cards, but there is an argument for some households to have both cards.

In particular, some couples may benefit by one person getting the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the other person getting the Ink Business Preferred . These cards can form the perfect combination for couples who sometimes travel separately or use travel providers that require travelers to use a credit card in their name when booking travel. Here's why.

Card benefits

The Chase Sapphire Reserve and Ink Business Preferred each provide valuable perks. Here's a quick overview of these two cards:

Both cards also offer valuable travel insurance , including trip delay reimbursement , baggage delay insurance , lost luggage reimbursement and trip cancellation and interruption insurance .

However, the travel insurance offered by the Sapphire Reserve is slightly better. For example, if you pay for your common carrier fare with the Ink Business Preferred, trip delay reimbursement requires a 12-hour (or overnight) delay. By contrast, if you pay with the Chase Sapphire Reserve, it only requires a six-hour (or overnight) delay.

Related: The power of the Chase Trifecta: Sapphire Reserve, Ink Preferred and Freedom Unlimited

2 is better than 1

You might consider getting the Chase Sapphire Reserve and paying an additional $75 annual fee to add your partner as an authorized user .

After all, Chase Sapphire Reserve authorized users get a card in their name, including access to the standard earning rates and travel insurance when using the card, and a Priority Pass Select membership .

But by paying a slightly higher combined annual fee, your partner could get their own Ink Business Preferred . They'd need to be eligible for a small-business card , but many hobbies and side hustles can qualify you for a small-business card.

The Ink Business Preferred's current sign-up bonus — 100,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months after account opening — is certainly appealing. Based on TPG's valuations , this bonus is worth about $2,050.

By getting and keeping both cards, you'll also get access to two sets of Chase Offers . And you'll have two separate accounts that earn well on travel purchases if one of your cards becomes compromised while traveling together.

Related: Why you should carry a backup credit card while traveling

Transfer rewards between accounts

You might worry that one negative of you and your partner having multiple Chase cards is that your points will be separated. But Chase lets you combine Chase Ultimate Rewards points with "another Chase card with Ultimate Rewards belonging to you or one member of your household or owner of the company."

So, you can combine your points if your partner is a household member. This is particularly important if you want to redeem points for travel through Chase Travel since Chase Sapphire Reserve accounts can do so at a rate of 1.5 cents per point — 0.25 cents per point higher than the rate you'd get if you redeemed from an Ink Business Preferred account.

But it's also useful if you plan to redeem your Ultimate Rewards points by transferring to one of Chase's 14 transfer partners . After all, you can only transfer points to "partner program accounts belonging to you or one additional household member who is listed as an authorized user on your Chase credit card account."

So, if your partner needed more Air France-KLM Flying Blue miles to book an award flight and doesn't have enough Ultimate Rewards points in their account, you could move Ultimate Rewards points from your account to theirs (even if they aren't an authorized user on your account). Then, they could transfer Ultimate Rewards points to Flying Blue for their redemption.

Related: How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value

Alternate combinations

You might wonder whether you could replace either of the cards in this combination and still get similar benefits. Here's a look at two alternate combinations you might consider:

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card instead of the Chase Sapphire Reserve

You might consider getting the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card instead of the Chase Sapphire Reserve. After all, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card has a significantly lower $95 annual fee, doesn't charge an additional fee for authorized users and offers 3 points per dollar on online grocery purchases and select streaming services.

But, the Chase Sapphire Preferred only gives 1.25 cents per point when you redeem for travel booked through the Chase Travel portal (whereas the Chase Sapphire Reserve gives 1.5 cents per point). And the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card earns fewer points than the Chase Sapphire Reserve on most travel.

Plus, the Chase Sapphire Reserve provides a Priority Pass Select membership and an up-to-$100 Global Entry ( increasing to $120 in October), TSA PreCheck or Nexus application fee credit every four years.

Related: Chase Sapphire showdown: Sapphire Preferred vs. Sapphire Reserve

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card instead of the Ink Business Preferred

You might also consider getting the Chase Sapphire Preferred instead of the Ink Business Preferred , especially if you aren't eligible for a business credit card .

The two cards offer similar travel insurance and annual fees. And the Chase Sapphire Preferred offers some additional bonus categories and up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays purchased through Chase Travel.

But, if you opt for the Chase Sapphire Preferred instead of the Ink Business Preferred, you'd miss out on the Ink Business Preferred bonus categories. In particular, you'd earn less on most travel purchases.

Related: Why I chose the Ink Business Preferred over the Chase Sapphire Reserve

Bottom line

The Chase Sapphire Reserve and the Ink Business Preferred card combination is a good choice for couples who travel frequently. In particular, this combination is best for couples who sometimes travel separately and often need to book travel on a card in their name.

However, some couples may get better value from an alternate card combination or from simply opening one card account and adding an authorized user . So, consider how you'll use your cards and redeem your rewards when deciding on a credit card strategy .

Related: How to complete a Chase business credit card application

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve or the Ink Business Preferred

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Get 1/3 off train travel with a Two Together Railcard

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How much can I save?

People with a Two Together Railcard  save on average £89 per year** , or  £6.08 per journey^ . If you’re travelling here’s an example of some of the savings you can make on train tickets:

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How does using a Railcard work?

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Eligibility and terms of use

• Buy a Railcard and keep it with you when you travel (on your phone or wallet)
• Save on most tickets including Advance tickets
• Valid Off-Peak Monday to Friday and Anytime at weekends and bank holidays

Read full eligibility and usage terms

Need help getting or using your Railcard?

Need help? Can't figure out what card to buy? Or just have a question?

Can I use the Two Together Railcard when I am travelling on my own?

No. The Railcard is for use by you and the second named adult on your Railcard when you are travelling together. The two named cardholders must travel together for the entire journey for their discounted tickets to be valid.

Can I use my Railcard for tickets for travel on the London Underground?

You cannot use your Two Together Railcard to get discounts on Oyster Pay As You Go or tickets bought from London Underground retailers.

However, you can buy discounted rail tickets for a journey which involves a cross London journey using the Underground to travel between two London mainline train stations. Anytime Day Travelcards are also available when bought as part of your National Rail ticket to London from outside London Zones 1-9, subject to a minimum fare of £19.60.

Can I travel with my Two Together Railcard at any time of the day?

You can travel on Two Together Railcard discounted tickets from 09:30am Monday to Friday and at any time on weekends and public holidays.  Two Together Railcard discounted tickets cannot be used between 04:30am and 09:29am Monday to Fridays (excluding public holidays).

How do I add a digital Railcard to my phone?

If you have already purchased a digital Railcard, you should have received an email which contains a download code. You will use this download code to add your digital Two Together Railcard on your phone or device.

First, you will need to download the Railcard app from the Apple Store or the Google Play store. Once downloaded, open the app and tap on the ‘+’ symbol on the ‘Your Railcards’ screen. The ‘Add Railcard’ screen will then show, and you will need to tap on the ‘+’ symbol under ‘Add an existing Railcard’ to enter your download code and add your Railcard.

Click here for the step by step guide on how to add a digital Railcard to your phone.

How credit cards can help you cope with travel troubles

“Revenge travel” has been a big theme the past couple of years as Americans have been raring to go here, there and everywhere after hunkering down during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As a result, the Transportation Security Administration screened a record-high 858.5 million passengers in 2023.

But it hasn’t been a smooth ride for travelers. In fact, if you flew in 2022 or 2023, there was a one-in-five chance your flight was delayed, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

Cancellations were an especially big problem in 2022, when the airline industry had a tough time ramping back up after the pandemic.

That year, 2.7% of flights were scrapped entirely, often due to staffing and/or equipment shortages.

Last year, however, the cancellation rate was a mere 1.3%. Higher prices – not cancellations or delays – were travelers’ biggest concern last summer and last holiday season, according to Bankrate research.

Still, there can be hidden costs associated with delays, cancellations and other travel snafus.

For instance, my family flew from New Jersey to California last month, and both of our flights were delayed about two hours.

With two young kids in tow, our nerves were strained more than our wallets, though we still ended up spending a bit extra on food (which isn’t cheap when even a basic airport sandwich seems to cost at least $15).

I’ve had a few other travel experiences in recent years which made me wish I had paid with a credit card with strong travel insurance benefits.

These perks wouldn’t have kicked in for my two-hour delay, but they definitely could have helped me out the time my flight from Chicago to New York was diverted to Virginia in the middle of the night and the airline basically just left us there.

Or the two times in 2022 when airlines canceled our flights the night before they were scheduled to leave (seemingly due to operational issues) and couldn’t rebook us for several days – or when I came down with COVID and had to cancel a trip last fall.

Travel insurance benefits

Not all travel insurance benefits cover the same situations, but here are a few of the most common credit card travel insurance policy perks:

• Trip delay reimbursement

• Trip cancellation or interruption insurance

• Baggage delay protection

• Lost or damaged baggage protection

• Medical evaluation

• Travel accident insurance

• Auto rental collision insurance

The Chase Sapphire PreferredⓇ Card is a great example.

For a fairly modest $95 annual fee, it offers a lot of travel insurance (among other perks).

In my estimation, its trip cancellation/interruption benefit (up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip) should have applied to both of my 2022 flight cancellations.

I ended up getting those refunded by the airlines and booked new flights on different carriers (since the original carriers couldn’t accommodate us until nearly a week later), but that cost extra.

If I had paid for my original airline tickets with this card, I believe that Chase would have reimbursed me for the difference between my canceled flights and my new bookings (although I would have had to request that refund through a claims administrator).

But there’s a chance my request would not have been approved, perhaps if the company argued I should have taken the airline up on its offer to fly a few days later, rather than rebooking myself more immediately at a higher cost on a different airline.

These programs aren’t always easy to navigate; a coworker needed to be very persistent and had to submit several rounds of documentation to win a reimbursement claim involving the Chase Sapphire Reserve and a trip disrupted by a hurricane.

I wish it were easier to use, but this coverage can still be very valuable.

For a heftier annual fee ($550), the Sapphire Reserve offers better trip delay insurance, triggering after six hours or an overnight delay, while the Sapphire Preferred triggers after 12 hours or an overnight delay.

Both the Sapphire Preferred and the Sapphire Reserve offer the same primary rental car insurance, trip delay insurance (up to $500 per ticket), delayed baggage insurance, emergency medical coverage and more.

Both cards would have been useful the time I got stranded in Virginia (I ended up renting a car and driving about five hours to get home; my company paid for that since it was a business trip, but if it had been a personal trip, I likely could have gotten a reimbursement from a travel card with good trip cancellation/interruption protections).

The Platinum Card from American Express and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card also made our list of the best credit cards for travel insurance.

It’s also worth asking what the airline, hotel or rental car agency can do for you if you need to cancel.

I lost out on a prepaid rental reservation in 2020 when I was afraid to travel in the early days of the pandemic.

But in 2023, when I had COVID and needed to cancel a hotel stay, the hotel generously refunded my supposedly non-refundable reservation. Perhaps it made a difference that I was actually sick that time instead of worried about potentially getting sick, but it never hurts to ask.

The bottom line

Many airlines and hotel chains have relaxed their change and cancellation policies in recent years.

So if you do encounter an unexpected issue, it’s a good rule of thumb to start with the travel supplier, and then pull in your credit card company as a backup.

For this reason, I think it only makes sense to pay for travel insurance if you have a particularly complicated or expensive itinerary (especially an international trip).

Often, that coverage is comparable to what you may already qualify for between your credit cards and the travel suppliers’ policies.

Paying with a credit card that has strong travel insurance benefits can provide additional assistance without adding to the cost.

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