How to read this

This estimate uses each card's flat cash-back rate on your total spend minus the annual fee. It deliberately leaves out tiered category bonuses, caps and welcome bonuses, so a tiered card may do better or worse than shown depending on where you spend. It is informational, not financial advice — confirm current rates and terms at the issuer, and remember rewards only pay off if you avoid interest by paying in full.

Frequently asked questions

How is the cash back estimate calculated?: We multiply your monthly spend by twelve, apply each card's flat cash-back rate, and subtract the annual fee. It is a simple flat-rate estimate: it does not include tiered category bonuses (like 3% dining), spending caps, or one-time welcome bonuses, which can change the real total. Treat it as a starting point and verify current rates at the issuer. This is not financial advice.
Why do you only show flat-rate cards here?: A flat-rate estimate is the most honest single number we can give from spend alone, because tiered cards depend on exactly how your spending splits across categories. For tiered cards like Chase Freedom Unlimited, your real return depends on how much hits the 5%/3% categories, so we describe those on the cash-back cards page rather than estimating a misleading single figure here.
Does cash back matter if I carry a balance?: Usually not. Regular APRs run roughly 17%–28% variable, far above a 1.5%–2% reward rate, so interest typically wipes out cash back and more. Cash-back cards pay off only if you clear the statement balance each month. If you tend to carry a balance, a 0% intro APR card to pay it down is usually a better priority than chasing rewards.