Compare Cash Back Credit Cards

The more you spend on a cashback card, the more you earn. However, some cards will offer different rates for different types of spending. For instance, one card may give you 1.5% cashback for spending in a supermarket, but 3.2% for spending in a petrol station. It's also possible for different rates to be given according to the amount you spend. For instance, you might get 2% cashback on expenditure up to £2,500, but 3% on anything spent above this mark. Similarly, some cards only offer cash back for certain stores, and others pay high rates for limited introductory periods.

Generally, the top cashback cards don't offer low-interest rates, which means they're better suited to people who can reliably pay back the full balance amount on the card each month. If you struggle to make full payments, you may find that the interest you owe equates to more than you've earned through cashback.

As with any credit card, it's worth comparing Annual Percentage Rates (APR), and interest rates when determining how much it could cost you to use a cashback card regularly. What's more, many cashback cards also charge an annual fee. This can be as low as £25 but there are other providers who will charge substantially more so it's an important point to keep in mind. However, despite the annual fee, some cash back cards can be a good deal depending on the benefits the card offers, and your spending habits.

Cashback cards are not a good idea for those looking to transfer their credit balance. Better options can be found in low-interest rate cards and cards with a 0% introductory offer.

Frequent spenders can earn large portions of cashback when they take advantage of big ticket offers and spending incentives. However, the cashback rate on your card may not always make up for a high-interest rate. Borrowers who lack discipline should avoid cashback cards as they can create the temptation to run up big debts in an effort to earn greater amounts of cashback each month.

To avoid expensive interest fees on your cashback card and therefore make the card worthwhile, it's important to pay off your balance each month. Using a direct debit, you can effectively ensure that you have an interest-free way to earn rewards on regular spending.

While your credit score might not make a difference to the cashback rate you can apply for, it will have an impact on your credit limit, the rate of interest you are offered, and your average APR. The better your credit rating is, the more appealing your cashback card deal could be.