What is a Gas Credit Card?
A gas rewards credit card is a type of credit card that rewards cardholders for purchasing gasoline and other fuel-related expenses. These cards often offer cash back, points, or other rewards for fuel purchases made at participating gas stations, convenience stores, and other fuel retailers. The rewards and benefits of a gas credit card can vary, but they are typically designed to help cardholders save money on fuel expenses and make it easier to track spending.
Some credit cards for gas also offer additional benefits, such as extended warranty protection, travel insurance, and discounts on other purchases. To use a gas credit card, you simply present the card at the time of purchase and sign the receipt or enter your PIN if required. It's important to compare different gas credit cards and consider factors such as rewards, fees, APR, and other benefits when choosing the best card for your needs.
How Gas Credit Cards Work
Gas credit cards work in much the same way as other types of credit cards. When you apply for a gas credit card, the issuer will check your credit history and determine your creditworthiness. If you are approved, you will receive a credit limit to make purchases using the card.
With a gas credit card, you can make purchases at participating gas stations and other fuel retailers. The card issuer will track your purchases and calculate rewards based on the amount you spend. Depending on the card, you may earn cash back, points, or other rewards for each purchase. For example, you may earn a set percentage of cash back on all fuel purchases or earn extra rewards when you fill up at certain brands.
Gas credit cards may also offer additional benefits, such as extended warranty protection, travel insurance, and discounts on other purchases. These benefits can vary depending on the card and the issuer, so it's important to compare different gas credit cards and understand what each one offers.
In order to use a gas credit card, you simply need to present the card at the time of purchase and sign the receipt or enter your PIN if required. You'll also need to make sure you pay your bill on time to avoid late fees and avoid accruing debt.
When choosing a gas credit card, consider several factors, including the rewards and benefits offered, the APR, and any fees associated with the card. You should also make sure the card is accepted at the gas stations you frequent and that the rewards offered are in line with your spending habits.
Types of Gas Credit Cards
There are several types of gas credit cards available in the US, each offering different rewards, benefits, and fees. These are the most common types of gas credit cards:
- Cash back gas credit cards. These cards offer cash back on fuel purchases made at participating gas stations and other fuel retailers. The cash back rewards can range from 1% to 5% or more, depending on the card. Some cash back gas credit cards also offer bonus rewards for other types of purchases, such as groceries or dining.
- Points-based gas credit cards. Points-based gas credit cards allow cardholders to earn points for fuel purchases that can be redeemed for cash back, merchandise, travel, or other rewards. Points-based gas credit cards often offer higher reward rates than cash back gas credit cards, but the points can be more difficult to redeem or may have restrictions on their use.
- Co-branded gas credit cards. Co-branded gas credit cards are issued in partnership with specific fuel brands, such as ExxonMobil, BP, or Shell. These cards offer rewards and benefits specifically for purchases made at the partnering brand's gas stations. Co-branded gas credit cards often offer higher reward rates than other types of gas credit cards, but they may be less widely accepted at other fuel retailers.
- Premium gas credit cards. Premium gas credit cards are a type of gas credit card that offer additional benefits, such as extended warranty protection, travel insurance, and exclusive access to premium gas. Premium gas credit cards usually have higher fees and interest rates than other types of gas credit cards, and they may require a higher credit score for approval.
- Fleet gas credit cards. Fleet gas credit cards are designed for businesses that need to track and manage fuel expenses for their fleet of vehicles. Fleet gas credit cards typically offer more advanced features, such as the ability to set spending limits, monitor fuel usage, and receive detailed statements. Fleet gas credit cards may also offer discounts on fuel purchases for large volumes.
When choosing a gas credit card, it's important to consider the rewards and benefits offered, the APR, and any fees associated with the card. You should also make sure the card is accepted at the gas stations you frequent and that the rewards offered are in line with your spending habits.
Best Gas Credit Cards
Citi Custom Cash Card
Citi Custom Cash Card is a cash back credit card offered by Citibank.
Rewards: When you use the Citi Custom Cash Card to purchase gas, you may earn a higher cash back rate than you would on other purchases. The exact amount of cash back you can earn will depend on the category bonuses you have selected, but eligible gas purchases may earn a higher rate than other categories.
Benefits: A bonus offer of $200 cash back is available once you spend $1,500 within 6 months. The card provides worldwide travel accident insurance, which can provide peace of mind when you're traveling. Additionally, the card comes with extended warranty protection for your purchases.
APR: A 0% Intro APR offer is available for 15 months. The APR for the Citi Custom Cash Card is 18.49% to 28.49% variable.
Fees: The card has no annual fee. There is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 5% of each transfer amount. There is also a late payment fee of up to $40 and a returned payment fee of up to $40. Additionally, if you use the card outside of the United States, you may be charged a foreign transaction fee.
Wells Fargo Autograph Card
Wells Fargo Autograph Card is a credit card offered by Wells Fargo.
Rewards: When you use the Wells Fargo Autograph Card for gas purchases, you earn 3x points. All other eligible purchases earn 1x points.
Benefits: The benefits offered include travel accident insurance, extended warranty protection, and zero liability for fraudulent purchases. You receive $600 on cell phone protection when you pay your monthly cell phone bill.
APR: Wells Fargo Autograph Card has 19.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% variable APR. A 0% Intro APR is available for 12 months.
Fees: The card has a number of fees that you should be aware of. For example, there is a balance transfer fee of $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater. There is also a late payment fee of up to $39 and a returned payment fee of up to $37. Additionally, if you use the card outside of the United States, you may be charged a foreign transaction fee.
Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card
Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card is a cash back credit card offered by Bank of America.
Rewards: With the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card, you can earn cash back on eligible purchases in the form of statement credits. A 3% cash back is earned on the choice category, 2% cash back for grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and 1% cash back on other purchases.
Benefits: You get a $200 cash reward bonus once you spend $1,000 within 90 days. The benefits offered include online and mobile banking, fraud protection, and extended warranty protection. Additionally, if you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards client, you may be eligible for additional rewards and benefits.
APR: The interest rate is 18.24% to 28.24% variable APR. A 0% Intro APR is available for 18 billing cycles for purchases and for 60 days on balance transfers.
Fees: The card has no annual fees. There is a balance transfer fee of $10 or 3% of the amount of each transfer. There is also a foreign transaction fee of 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars. Additionally, if you're late making a payment, you may be charged a late fee of up to $40.
Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express is a cash back credit card that provides rewards for various purchases, including gas.
Rewards: When you use the Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express for gas purchases, you can earn cash back rewards of 3% on supermarket purchases, online retail purchases, and gas rewards.
Benefits: The Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express comes with extended warranty protection, purchase protection, and fraud protection. Additionally, cardholders can earn a $200 statement credit on an online-only offer once they spend $2,000 within 6 months.
APR: The APR for the Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express is 18.49% to 29.49% variable. A 0% Intro APR is available for 15 months.
Fees: The card from American Express has a number of fees that you should be aware of. For example, there is no balance transfer fee. However, if you use the card outside of the United States, you may be charged a foreign transaction fee of 2.7% of each transaction in U.S. dollars. Additionally, if you're late making a payment, you may be charged a late fee of up to $40.
U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card
The U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card is a rewards credit card that provides benefits for various purchases, including gas.
Rewards: For prepaid hotels and car rentals, you earn 5x points. For travel, gas station purchases, and EV charging purchases, you earn 4x points. Streaming services and grocery store shopping earn 2x points.
Benefits: The benefits offered include travel and emergency assistance services, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, and a 24/7 concierge service. Additionally, cardholders can enjoy extended warranty protection and purchase protection. An online-only offer earns 50,000 bonus rewards once you spend $2,000 within 120 days.
APR: The APR for the U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card is 20.49%-28.49% variable and based on the Prime Rate. This means that the APR can change over time based on market conditions.
Fees: The U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card has an annual fee of $95, depending on your creditworthiness. There is also a balance transfer fee of $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer. If you use the card outside of the United States, you may be charged foreign transaction fees of 1% of each transaction in U.S. dollars. Additionally, if you're late making a payment, you may be charged a late fee of up to $38.
Chase Freedom Flex
The Chase Freedom Flex Card is a cash back rewards credit card from JPMorgan Chase.
Rewards: A 5% cash back is earned on bonus categories and travel purchases. For drugstores and restaurants, you get 3% cash back.
Benefits: The Chase Freedom Flex Card comes with extended warranty protection, purchase protection, and fraud protection. Additionally, cardholders can enjoy access to exclusive events and experiences through the Chase Experiences program. A $200 bonus rewards offer is earned once you spend $500 within 3 months.
APR: The APR is from 19.24% to 27.99%. For 15 months from account opening, there is a 0% Intro APR.
Fees: The Chase Freedom Flex Card has an annual fee of $0. There is also a balance transfer fee of $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer. If you use the card outside of the United States, you may be charged a foreign transaction fee of 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars. Additionally, if you're late making a payment, you may be charged a late fee of up to $39.
Discover it Cash Back
The Discover it Cash Back Card is a cash back rewards credit card that provides rewards for gas purchases.
Rewards: The card comes with 5% cash back on everyday purchases at gas station purchases, restaurants, and Amazon. Unlimited 1% cash back is available for other purchases.
Benefits: The Discover it Cash Back Card comes with purchase protection, price protection, and return protection. Additionally, cardholders can enjoy access to exclusive events and experiences through the Discover Deals program.
APR: The APR of 16.24% to 27.24% variable. For 15 months, the cardholders get a 0% Intro APR.
Fees: The Discover it Cash Back Card has an annual fee of $0. There is also a balance transfer fee of $5 or 3% of each transfer amount, whichever is greater. If you use the card outside of the United States, you may be charged a foreign transaction fee of 1% of each transaction in U.S. dollars. Additionally, if you're late making a payment, you may be charged a late fee of up to $40.
PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature Card
The PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature Card is a rewards credit card offered by PenFed Credit Union.
Rewards: When you use the PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature Card for gas purchases, you can earn rewards of 5x points. For supermarket purchases, streaming services, and restaurants, the earning rate is 3x points. On all other purchases, you earn 1x points.
Benefits: The PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature Card comes with extended warranty protection, travel accident insurance, and car rental insurance. Additionally, cardholders can enjoy concierge service and access to exclusive events and experiences through the PenFed Rewards program.
APR: There is a 0% balance transfers offer for 12 months and for 90 days on balance transfers. After the intro offer ends, you get a 17.99% variable APR.
Fees: The PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature Card has an annual fee of $0. There is also a balance transfer fee of $5 or 3% of each transfer amount. If you use the card outside of the United States, you may be charged a foreign transaction fee of 1% of each transaction in U.S. dollars. Additionally, if you're late making a payment, you may be charged a late fee of up to $25.
Pros and Cons of Gas Credit Cards
Pros
- Rewards and cash back. One of the primary benefits of gas credit cards is the rewards and cash back they offer. With these cards, you can earn cash back, rewards points, or discounts on your gas purchases, which can help you save money at the pump.
- Convenience. Gas credit cards are designed specifically for fuel purchases, making them a convenient option for people who frequently buy gas. These cards can be used for various gas stations and can help you save time and effort when filling up your tank.
- Other benefits. Some gas credit cards offer other benefits such as roadside assistance, travel insurance, and more, making them a good option for those who are looking for a comprehensive credit card solution.
Cons
- Limited use. One of the primary drawbacks of gas credit cards is their limited use. They are designed specifically for fuel purchases and may not be accepted at all gas stations. Additionally, some gas credit cards may not be accepted at retail stores or restaurants, making them a less flexible option for everyday use.
- High fees. Some gas credit cards may have high fees, such as annual fees, balance transfer fees, and more, which can offset any savings you may earn on your gas purchases.
- Limited rewards. Depending on the card, the rewards and cash back offered by gas credit cards may be limited in comparison to other types of credit cards. For example, some gas credit cards may only offer rewards on fuel purchases and may not provide rewards on other types of purchases.
- Expiration of rewards. Some gas credit cards have expiration dates for the rewards and cash back earned, which means that if you don't use the rewards within a certain period of time, you will lose them.
How to Choose a Credit Card for Gas
Choosing a credit card for gas purchases can be a wise decision as it can help you earn rewards and savings on fuel expenses. However, not all gas credit cards are created equal, and it's important to find one that best suits your needs and spending habits. There are some factors to consider when selecting a gas credit card:
- Rewards. Consider the rewards program offered by the card. Some cards offer a fixed amount of rewards per gallon, while others offer a percentage of cash back on all purchases, including gas. It's important to understand how the rewards program works and how much you can realistically expect to earn.
- Gas station restrictions. Some gas credit cards are only accepted at specific gas stations or networks, while others can be used at any gas station. Make sure to choose a card that will work at your preferred gas station.
- Annual fee. Some gas credit cards come with an annual fee. If the rewards you earn will not offset this fee, it might not be worth it.
- Sign-up bonuses. Some gas credit cards offer a sign-up bonus, which can provide an extra boost to your rewards balance. However, be aware of the requirements to earn the bonus and if it's worth the effort.
- Consider the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of the card. Some gas credit cards have high APRs, which can be a drawback if you plan to carry a balance from month to month.
- Credit score. The card you choose may also depend on your credit score. Some gas credit cards are available only to those with good to excellent credit, while others may be more accessible to those with fair credit.
Once you've considered these factors, compare several gas credit cards and select the one that best fits your needs. Regularly review your card's terms and conditions, and make sure the rewards and benefits continue to meet your needs over time.
How to Get a Gas Credit Card
Getting a gas credit card is relatively straightforward and can be done in a few different ways. Here are the steps to follow:
- Determine your needs. Before applying for a gas credit card, it's important to determine what type of card best fits your needs. Do you frequently drive and want to earn rewards on gas purchases? Do you want a card with a low APR? Make a list of the features that are most important to you, and use this as a guide when evaluating different options.
- Research credit card options. There are many different gas credit cards available in the USA, so it's important to do your research to find the best one for you. You can compare different cards by looking at their rewards programs, APR, fees, and other features, such as cash back, miles, and points.
- Check your credit score. Before applying for a gas credit card, it's a good idea to check your credit score. A good credit score can help increase your chances of approval, as well as get better terms and rates. If your credit score is low, you may want to work on improving it before applying for a credit card.
- Apply for a gas credit card. Once you've found the best gas credit card for your needs, you can apply for it online, over the phone, or in person. You will need to provide personal information, including your name, address, and income, as well as information about your employment and financial history. You'll also need to provide your Social Security number so that the card issuer can perform a credit check.
- Wait for approval. Once you've submitted your application, you'll typically receive a decision within a few minutes to a few days. If your application is approved, you'll receive your credit card in the mail, along with information about your account and rewards program.
