I’m considering the Citi Double Cash® Card because I like the idea of a flat 2% cash back on everything. But I’ve also been hearing a lot about other cards with bonus categories and sign-up bonuses. For someone who mostly spends on groceries, gas, and occasional online shopping, is the Double Cash worth it? Or should I look at cards with specific bonus categories?
The Citi Double Cash is great for simple, consistent rewards without any category tracking. If you don’t want to juggle multiple cards, it’s one of the best for general spending. But if you spend a lot in specific categories like groceries or dining, you might get more value from a card like the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from AmEx, which gives 3% back on U.S. supermarkets, gas, and online purchases (up to $6,000/year).
@StingyATM
I do spend quite a bit on groceries, so the Blue Cash Everyday might be a good fit. The flat 2% on Double Cash seems nice for everything else though.
I use the Double Cash as my ‘everything else’ card. I pair it with the Chase Freedom Flex® for the rotating 5% bonus categories. I find that the Double Cash works well for covering all the spending that doesn’t fall into those categories. It’s nice because I don’t have to think about it.
@Mars
That sounds like a good strategy, especially if the rotating categories line up with my spending habits.
I’d say go for the Double Cash if you value simplicity and don’t want to keep track of bonus categories. It’s not the flashiest card but it’s reliable and works well if you don’t have time to micromanage rewards.
@Xen
Simplicity is definitely a plus for me. I don’t mind doing a little more work for rewards, but the idea of just using one card for everything is appealing.
If your spending is heavy in one area, like groceries, gas, or dining, you might want a card with higher rewards in those categories. But if you’re just looking for a solid everyday card with no annual fee, the Citi Double Cash is one of the best options. It’s dependable and works well as a main card or a backup to a more specific rewards card.
@Wynter
Good point. I think I’m leaning towards the Double Cash for its flexibility, but I might get another card for specific spending categories later.
If you don’t mind managing categories, consider the Discover it® Cash Back. You get 5% back in rotating categories (up to $1,500 per quarter). It’s more work, but with the first-year cashback match, it could beat out the 2% from the Double Cash in year one. After that, the Double Cash would still be a great card to have long-term.
@Thorn
I like the idea of the cashback match, but I’m not sure about keeping track of categories every quarter. The 2% flat rate just feels easier to deal with.