Best Credit Cards for Couples

From cashback options to travel perks, you’ll discover what each card has to offer and how they can enhance your financial journey as a couple.  By the end of this read, you’ll be well-equipped with valuable insights that could transform how you manage your finances together.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

This card is perfect for couples who love to travel, offering generous points on dining and travel purchases, along with valuable travel protections

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is an ideal choice for couples who share a passion for exploring new destinations together.  This card stands out with its generous earning potential, providing 2x points on dining and 2x points on travel purchases, making it easier to rack up rewards while enjoying romantic dinners or planning your next getaway.

Along with its remarkable point accumulation, the card offers valuable travel protections, including trip cancellation insurance and primary car rental coverage, ensuring peace of mind during your travels.  Here are some benefits that make this card notably attractive for couples:

• Sign-up bonus: Earn a generous number of bonus points after meeting the minimum spend requirement within the first few months.
• No foreign transaction fees: Perfect for international trips without worrying about extra charges.
• Flexible redemption options: Points can be redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal or transferred to various airline and hotel partners.
• Travel insurance benefits: Coverage includes trip delay reimbursement and lost luggage insurance.

American Express Gold Card

With its strong rewards for dining out and grocery shopping, this card allows couples to earn points on everyday spending while enjoying exclusive perks like restaurant credits

The American Express Gold Card stands out for couples who frequently dine out or shop for groceries.  With this card, you can earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at restaurants, which includes takeout and delivery, and also 3X points on grocery purchases (on up to $25,000 per year in purchases).  This provides a fantastic opportunity for couples to maximize their points on everyday spending.

In addition to its rewards structure, the card offers exclusive perks that enhance your dining experience:

• $120 dining credit annually: Get up to $10 in monthly statement credits when you make eligible purchases with select partners.
• No foreign transaction fees: Enjoy international travel without the worry of extra charges on purchases made abroad.
• User-friendly mobile app: Track your rewards and manage account preferences conveniently from your devices.

Discover It Cash Back Card

For those looking for a straightforward cash back option, this no-annual-fee card offers rotating categories that can benefit couples based on their spending habits

The Discover It Cash Back Card is an excellent choice for couples seeking a straightforward cash back solution without the burden of an annual fee.  This card features rotating categories that change every quarter, allowing couples to earn 5% cash back on specific purchases up to a quarterly maximum.  Categories may include popular spending areas like groceries, restaurants, and gas stations, making it easy for couples to optimize their rewards based on shared lifestyle habits.

Each cardholder also benefits from a unique feature: at the end of their first year, Discover matches all the cash back earned, giving you truly impressive savings.  Additionally, there’s no limit on how much cash back can be obtained in non-rotating 1% categories such as online shopping or at local retailers.  For those who enjoy planning ahead and aligning their spending with the available categories each quarter, this card is perfect for maximizing returns while building financial flexibility together.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Ideal for adventurous couples, this card provides unlimited 2X miles on every purchase and comes with a flexible sign-up bonus that makes it easy to plan your next getaway together

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a fantastic choice for adventurous couples looking to maximize their travel potential.  With unlimited 2X miles earned on every purchase, you can quickly accumulate points that can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and more.  This flexibility allows you to plan spontaneous getaways or indulge in romantic trips without the worry of accumulating debt.

One of the standout features is its flexible sign-up bonus, which often provides enough miles for a meaningful discount on your next vacation.  Here are some benefits that make this card appealing:

• No foreign transaction fees, making it perfect for international adventures.
• Travel accident insurance and other protections ensure peace of mind while exploring together.
• Straightforward redemption process lets you book travel with ease using accumulated miles.

This card not only enhances your spending power but also turns everyday purchases into memorable experiences as a couple.

Citi Double Cash Card

If you prefer simplicity without the fuss of tracking categories, this card gives you 2% cash back on all purchases: 1% when you buy and another 1% when you pay it off, perfectly aligning with teamwork in managing finances

The Citi Double Cash Card is an ideal choice for couples looking to streamline their finances without the hassle of juggling various spending categories.  With its straightforward rewards structure, you earn 2% cash back on all purchases: 1% at the time of purchase and another 1% when you pay your bill.  This dual reward mechanism makes it easier than ever to maximize your cash back while effectively managing shared expenses.

• No annual fee: Enjoy all these benefits without added costs.
• Flexible redemption options: Use your earnings as a statement credit, check, or even convert them into ThankYou points.
• User-friendly online account management: Monitor spending and manage payments together effortlessly through a single online portal.

This card’s simplicity allows couples to focus more on partnership rather than intricate tracking systems, encouraging better financial teamwork in achieving common goals.

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card

Perfect for the couple that enjoys luxury stays, this card earns points towards free nights at Marriott hotels and includes an annual free night certificate after renewal

If you and your partner enjoy lavish vacations, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card could significantly enhance your travel experiences.  This credit card earns generous points on every purchase, allowing couples to rack up rewards quickly towards free nights at over 7,000 participating Marriott hotels worldwide.  With a focus on high-end properties, you can enjoy world-class amenities and personalized services that make your stay memorable.

One of the standout features is the annual free night certificate awarded after each renewal.  This certificate allows you to book a night at almost any Marriott property without touching your accumulated points, perfect for spontaneous trips or planned romantic retreats.  Additional benefits include:

• 3x points on restaurant purchases, making date nights even more rewarding.
• No foreign transaction fees, ideal for those international escapes without extra costs.
• Travel insurance protections, ensuring peace of mind during your adventures together.

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

This family-friendly option rewards up to 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6k per year), allowing couples who cook together or host gatherings to reap significant benefits

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is an excellent choice for couples who love to cook or entertain at home.  With this card, you can earn a remarkable 6% cash back on purchases made at U.S. supermarkets, up to $6,000 per year.  This means that whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner together or hosting a festive gathering for friends and family, the rewards will add up quickly.

In addition to its generous supermarket rewards, this card provides benefits that cater to couples:

• 3% cash back on transit expenses, including taxis and public transit, perfect for date nights out.
• No annual fee for the first year, allowing you to try it without commitment.
• $250 statement credit after spending $1,000 in your first three months, helping with those initial purchases.

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

Couples can choose a category where they earn 3% cash back each month according to their shared interests, whether it’s home enhancement supplies or gas stations!

The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card is ideal for couples who want a tailored approach to earning rewards.  With this card, partners can choose a category that resonates with their shared interests and lifestyle, allowing them to maximize their cash back earnings each month.

• Home improvement supplies: Perfect for couples who enjoy DIY projects or renovations.
• Gas stations: Great for those who frequently travel together and want to save on fuel expenses.
• Dining & entertainment: A fantastic option if you love exploring new restaurants or enjoying date nights out.
• Grocery stores: Ideal for couples who prioritize cooking at home and maintaining healthy eating habits.

This flexibility makes it easy for both individuals in the relationship to decide how they want to earn rewards based on what they value most as a couple.  The cashback structure also helps in managing finances while indulging in shared activities, giving every transaction an added level of intention and delight.

Wells Fargo Propel American Express® Card

This versatile card earns points across various categories without any annual fee; ideal for adventurous pairs who enjoy diverse spending habits, from streaming services to restaurants!

The Wells Fargo Propel American Express® Card is an excellent choice for couples looking to maximize their rewards without the burden of an annual fee.  This card stands out with its ability to earn points in a wide array of categories, making it particularly appealing for pairs who appreciate varied spending habits.

• 3x points on dining: Perfect for date nights or trying out new restaurants together.
• 3x points on streaming services: Ideal for cozy movie nights at home with your favorite shows and subscriptions.
• No foreign transaction fees: Great for adventurous trips abroad, allowing you to explore without incurring extra costs.
• Broad range of bonus categories: Earn 3x points on travel and transit as well, making every outing more rewarding!

This versatility means that no matter what your interests are, whether that’s catching up over dinner or indulging in the latest films, you’ll be earning valuable rewards along the way.  The Wells Fargo Propel Card helps couples nurture their financial goals while enjoying life together.

Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express

A must-have for travelers planning romantic getaways, featuring high rewards on hotel bookings and even complimentary Diamond status within Hilton’s loyalty program, it guarantees perks during excursions!

The Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express is a fantastic choice for couples who enjoy luxurious getaways together.  With a substantial earning rate on hotel bookings, cardholders can accumulate points quickly to redeem for future romantic retreats.  Here are some standout features of the card:

• High rewards rate: Earn up to 14x Hilton Honors Points on eligible purchases at hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
• Complimentary Diamond status: Enjoy an upgrade in your loyalty status that provides added benefits like room upgrades, free breakfast, and late check-out, perfect for making your romantic stay extra special.
• $250 resort credit: Offset costs during stays with an annual resort credit that’s perfect for spa treatments or fine dining experiences together.
• No foreign transaction fees: Travel abroad without worrying about additional fees when you make purchases overseas.

This card not only enhances travel experiences with its perks but also simplifies planning by offering significant rewards and bonuses tailored to travelers looking to create memorable moments together.

Target RedCard

For savvy shoppers living together (or just frequently visiting!) the Target store, not only does it offer discounts but also an additional saving grace via cashback as well, a win-win when teaming up!

For couples who frequently find themselves at Target, the Target RedCard is a smart choice that can considerably enhance your shopping experience together.  With this card, you’re not just getting access to exclusive deals; it offers 5% off every purchase made in-store and online, making those big hauls less painful on your wallet.  Over time, these savings add up, perfect for joint budgets or simply stocking up on household essentials.

What sets the Target RedCard apart is its cashback benefit.  Every time you shop with your card, you’re also accruing cash rewards, which adds an extra layer of savings for savvy shoppers.  Whether sharing expenses or saving for a couple’s getaway, using the RedCard collaboratively can lead to noteworthy discounts and improved budgeting:

• Easy access to promotions: Stay updated about weekly deals specifically designed for cardholders.
• No annual fees: Enjoy all these benefits without worrying about additional costs eating into your budget.
• Add-on perks: The ability to manage purchases through shared accounts makes tracking spending even easier as a couple.

Apple Card

Newlywed tech enthusiasts will appreciate how seamlessly integrated Apple’s user-friendly design fosters collaboration within budgeting efforts right down through either partner’s iPhone wallets!

The Apple Card revolutionizes the way couples streamline their budgeting processes.  With its sleek design and user-friendly interface, it allows both partners to stay connected on their spending without the hassle of juggling multiple accounts.  The integration with Apple’s Wallet app means that each partner can easily track transactions, monitor spending limits, and access detailed insights about their purchases, all from the convenience of their iPhones.

• Shared visibility: Both partners can see real-time updates on expenditures, making it simpler to discuss finances together.
• Easily manageable limits: Set individual or combined spending goals directly within the app.
• No fees: There are no annual fees or foreign transaction fees, which is especially great for newly married couples planning honeymoons or travel adventures!

This seamless collaboration makes budget management not just efficient but also an engaging experience for tech-savvy couples eager to work together toward financial wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are some highly recommended general-purpose cash back credit cards for a newlywed couple with excellent credit?

Several cards offering flat-rate cash back are frequently suggested. The Fidelity credit card and the Citi Double Cash card both offer 2% cash back on all purchases. However, the Fidelity card typically requires the rewards to be deposited into an eligible Fidelity account to receive the full 2%, while the Citi Double Cash provides 1% cash back on purchases and another 1% when you pay your bill (making it effectively 2% if paid in full). The Alliant Cashback Visa Signature card is also mentioned for its higher 2.5% flat cash back, but it has requirements like opening an Alliant checking account with a minimum balance and setting up direct deposit, and the 2.5% rate applies to the first $10,000 spent each month, then drops to 1.5%.

For specific spending categories like groceries, dining, and gas, which credit cards offer the best rewards?

For groceries, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred card is highlighted for its 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%). However, it has a $95 annual fee, so it’s important to calculate if the rewards outweigh the fee based on spending. The no-annual-fee version, the Amex Blue Cash Everyday, offers 3% back on groceries. The US Bank Shopper+ card allows you to choose two stores each quarter to earn 6% cash back (with spending caps). For dining and entertainment, the Capital One Savor card (which the original poster already has) offers 4% cash back. The Citi Custom Cash card provides 5% cash back on your highest spending category each billing cycle (up to $500 spent), which could be used for dining or gas. The Citi Costco Visa offers 4% cash back on gas.

Is it generally better to get a joint credit card or for each person to have their own card, possibly as authorized users?

There are differing opinions on this. Some prefer a dedicated joint credit card for shared expenses to simplify tracking and payment. Others recommend that each person have their own primary card accounts, even for the same card, to potentially double up on signup bonuses and referral bonuses. Adding a spouse as an authorized user is a common practice for shared spending, and some find it beneficial for tracking individual spending or in case one card is lost or compromised while traveling. However, some banks may not offer true joint ownership, where both individuals have equal access and responsibility for the account.

What are some credit card options that cater specifically to renters?

The Bilt Mastercard is specifically mentioned as a unique option for renters, as it allows you to earn points on rent payments with no transaction fees (they send a check to landlords who don’t accept credit cards). These points can then be redeemed for travel or other rewards.

Are travel rewards credit cards worth considering, even if you also want cash back?

Yes, travel rewards cards can potentially offer more “value” than straight cash back, especially for those who travel regularly. Points and miles can sometimes be redeemed for flights and hotels at a higher rate than their cash equivalent. For example, transferring Chase Ultimate Rewards points (earned from cards like the Sapphire Preferred or Reserve) to airline or hotel partners like Hyatt or Southwest can yield a return greater than 1 cent per point. However, travel rewards require more flexibility in redemption, as they must be used for travel-related expenses. If you are loyal to a particular airline (like Delta, as mentioned by the original poster’s wife), a co-branded airline credit card (though often offered by American Express for Delta) could also be beneficial for earning miles and perks.

What are some potential downsides or things to be cautious about when choosing a credit card?

Several potential downsides are discussed. Annual fees can negate the value of rewards if spending isn’t high enough in the bonus categories. Spending caps on bonus categories can limit the amount of rewards earned. Some cards have specific redemption restrictions (e.g., Fidelity requiring a deposit into their account). It’s also important to be aware of how different merchants categorize their transactions, as some stores like Walmart or Target might not code as “grocery stores” for certain cards. Finally, the discussion touches on the inherent risk of overspending with credit cards and the importance of paying balances in full each month to avoid interest charges, which can quickly outweigh any rewards earned.

Beyond specific card recommendations, what are some general strategies for maximizing credit card rewards as a couple?

Several strategies are suggested. Diversifying cards to cover different spending categories with the highest rewards is a common approach (e.g., a card for groceries, one for dining, and another for general purchases). Being aware of rotating bonus categories (like those offered by the Discover it card) and activating them can also be beneficial. Some suggest “churning,” or strategically opening and closing credit cards to take advantage of signup bonuses, although this requires careful management and may not be suitable for everyone. Another tip is to consider referral bonuses when one partner applies for a card after the other. For those who prefer travel rewards, pooling points from different cards within the same issuer (like Chase) can allow for more valuable redemptions.

Should a newlywed couple prioritize getting a shared credit card, or are there reasons to maintain separate finances or just track shared expenses differently?

The preference for shared vs. separate finances is a personal one. While a shared credit card can simplify the payment of joint expenses, some commenters advocate for maintaining separate finances or at least having a thorough discussion about financial habits and spending before merging accounts. Using apps like Splitwise to track shared expenses and settling up later is presented as an alternative to a joint card. The user who initiated the discussion specifically wants to move away from the back-and-forth of trying to pay equally and prefers the simplicity of a shared card for shared expenses. Ultimately, the best approach depends on the couple’s communication, financial compatibility, and spending habits.