The Best Credit Cards for Cyber Monday Shopping

 

What to look for in a credit card for Cyber Monday shopping

When choosing Cyber Monday credit cards, there are a few things you should keep in mind. After all, credit cards with no annual fee for Cyber Monday or credit cards with intro 0% APR for Cyber Monday may have drawbacks. Therefore, look to balance all of the following when considering the right card for your wallet:

• Maximize rewards: Opt for a credit card with rewards tailored to your preferences, whether it’s cash back, travel points, or merchandise. This allows you to earn benefits while cutting costs on your purchases.
• Any intro 0% APR offer: If you anticipate carrying a balance for a few months, prioritize credit cards offering an introductory 0% APR. This can significantly reduce your interest expenses during the initial period.
• Find no annual fee: Since many credit cards come with annual fees, especially premium ones, choose a card with no annual fee if your primary use is for Cyber Monday shopping. This ensures you enjoy maximum savings without additional expenses.
• Prioritize purchase protection: Seek credit cards with purchase protection benefits like extended warranties and return protection. Particularly valuable when purchasing high-value items or gifts, these features provide an extra layer of assurance and convenience during your Cyber Monday shopping spree.

Credit cards to consider for Cyber Monday shopping

Whether you’re looking for credit cards with purchase protection for Cyber Monday or are seeking the highest rewards earnings, here are some of the best credit cards for Cyber Monday shopping in 2023:

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Rewards rate: Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases

Introductory APR: 0% for 15 months

Regular APR: 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99%

Signup bonus: $200 cash back bonus after you spend $500 in the first 3 months

Verdict: The Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card emerges as a compelling choice for discerning consumers seeking a straightforward and rewarding credit card experience. With a consistent 2% cash back on all purchases, this card eliminates the complexity of rotating categories, appealing to those who value simplicity in their rewards. The added incentive of a $200 bonus after an initial spend enhances its attractiveness, providing an immediate boost to your savings. Moreover, the 0% introductory APR for 15 months positions the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card as a versatile option for those looking to manage their finances strategically, whether that be through debt consolidation, balance transfers, or something else. With its combination of clear benefits and cost-effective features, this card stands as an excellent choice for individuals seeking a reliable and rewarding credit card solution.

Apply now: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Learn more: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Review

Citi® Double Cash Card

Rewards rate:

• 1% cash back on all purchases
• Additional 1% cash back when you pay your balance in full each month

Introductory APR: 0% for 18 months

Regular APR: 19.24%-29.24%

Signup bonus: N/A

Verdict: The Citi Double Cash Credit Card proves to be an excellent choice for savvy credit card users seeking simplicity and consistent rewards. With its unique dual-reward structure, cardholders earn 1% cash back on all purchases and an additional 1% when they pay their balance in full each month. This encourages responsible credit management while providing a competitive cash back rate. The 0% introductory APR for 18 months adds an extra layer of financial flexibility, particularly beneficial for those looking to make large purchases or transfer balances. With no annual fee and a straightforward yet rewarding cash back system, the Citi Double Cash Card stands out as a reliable and cost-effective option in the credit card landscape.

Apply now: Citi® Double Cash Card

Learn more: Citi Double Cash Review

Chase Freedom Flex℠

Rewards rate:

• 5% on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate
• 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
• 3% on dining including takeout and drugstores
• 1% on all other purchases

Introductory APR: 0% for 15 months

Regular APR: 20.49% – 29.24%

Signup bonus: $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Verdict: The Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card emerges as a top-tier choice, offering a dynamic blend of versatility and rewards. Its rotating 5% cash back categories, coupled with 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% on dining (including takeout), and 1% on all other purchases, caters to diverse spending preferences. The enticing $200 bonus, accessible after an initial spend of $500 within the first three months, adds significant value to the card. Furthermore, the 0% introductory APR for 15 months enhances its appeal, providing a practical advantage for those seeking flexible financial management. Boasting no annual fees and a host of valuable perks, the Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card stands out as a compelling choice for individuals keen on maximizing the benefits of their credit card usage.

Apply now: Chase Freedom Flex

Learn more: Chase Freedom Flex Review

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Rewards rate:

• 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 in purchases per year, then 1%)
• 6% cash back on U.S. streaming services (on up to $600 in purchases per year, then 1%)
• 3% cash back on transit and gas
• 1% cash back on all other purchases

Introductory APR: 0% for 12 months

Regular APR: 19.24% – 29.99%

Signup bonus: $250 cash back bonus after you spend $3,000 in purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Verdict: The Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express presents itself as an outstanding option for individuals aiming to optimize their cash back rewards, particularly in everyday spending categories. With an impressive 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 in purchases per year), 6% cash back on U.S. streaming services, and 3% cash back on transit and gas the card aligns seamlessly with the typical consumer’s lifestyle. The lucrative $250 cash back bonus, coupled with a 0% introductory APR for 12 months, enhances its appeal. This card not only offers substantial rewards on essential expenses but also provides a generous bonus and a temporary reprieve from interest charges, making the Blue Cash Preferred Card a compelling choice for those seeking impactful and immediate cash back benefits.

Apply now: Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Learn more: Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express Review

Discover it® Cash Back

Rewards rate:

• 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate
• 1% cash back on all other purchases

Introductory APR: 0% for 15 months

Regular APR: 17.24% to 28.24%

Signup bonus: An unlimited dollar-for-dollar match of all the cash back you earn at the end of your first year.

Verdict: The Discover it Credit Card is an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and rewarding credit card experience. With 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories and 1% on all other purchases, its dynamic rewards structure stands out. Notably, Discover matches all cash back earned in the first year, providing an exceptional bonus. The card also features a 0% introductory APR for 15 months, making it practical for balance management or significant purchases. With no annual fee and a flexible redemption system, the Discover it Credit Card combines innovative rewards with financial versatility.

Apply now: Discover it® Cash Back Credit Card

Learn more: Discover It Cash Back Review

Tips for Cyber Monday shopping

1. Set a spending limit: Kick off your Cyber Monday spree by establishing a realistic budget and committing to it. This straightforward step helps prevent impulse purchases and ensures a financially savvy shopping experience.
2. Compare prices wisely: Before making any Cyber Monday purchase, meticulously compare prices from different retailers. This meticulous approach ensures that you secure the best possible deals and maximize your savings.
3. Maximize rewards with your credit card: Choose a credit card that offers rewards, allowing you to earn cash back or other perks on your Cyber Monday haul. This additional benefit enhances your overall savings during the shopping extravaganza.
4. Clear your credit card balance monthly: Make it a priority to settle your credit card bill in full each month. This responsible financial habit shields you from accumulating interest charges, ensuring that your Cyber Monday bargains remain true bargains.
5. Understand return policies: Take the time to familiarize yourself with the return policies of the stores you patronize on Cyber Monday. Being informed about these policies ensures a stress-free process in case returns or exchanges are necessary.
6. Bonus tip: Embrace Virtual Credit Card Numbers: Consider the added layer of security provided by virtual credit card numbers for your Cyber Monday transactions. These one-time-use numbers, generated from your credit card account, reduce the risk of your credit card details falling into the wrong hands, enhancing your overall online safety.

Related: Saving Tips for Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Beware of Scams on Cyber Monday

Cyber Monday, while offering a plethora of online deals, unfortunately, opens the door to a variety of scams targeting unsuspecting shoppers. Therefore, learning how to use credit cards safely on Cyber Monday is of the utmost importance. One common scam involves fake websites or phishing emails that mimic legitimate retailers, enticing users to input sensitive information. Another ploy is the creation of counterfeit mobile apps that claim to offer exclusive discounts but actually compromise personal data.

Additionally, beware of overly enticing deals that seem too good to be true, as they might lead to fraudulent transactions or the receipt of counterfeit goods. To avoid getting caught up in some of the above scams, consider the following tips for using credit cards wisely on Cyber Monday:

• Stick to reputable retailers when shopping online.
• Enhance your online security by utilizing a robust password and enabling two-factor authentication for your credit card account.
• Exercise caution when clicking on links in emails or social media posts.
• Stay vigilant against phishing scams, which are deceptive attempts via email or text to obtain your personal information, including credit card details.
• Regularly scrutinize your credit card statement for any unauthorized charges, ensuring prompt identification and resolution of potential issues.

Learn more: Common Black Friday and Cyber Monday Scams