Shocking Upset: Wells Fargo Active Cash Tops Citi Double Cash in 2% Cash Back Battle!

Choosing the right rewards credit card can make a significant difference in your financial routine. Two top contenders in the flat-rate cash back category are the Citi® Double Cash Card and the new Wells Fargo Active CashSM Card. Both offer a straightforward 2% cash back on all purchases, but each comes with its unique set of features. This comparison dives into their rewards programs, welcome bonuses, fees, APR, and additional perks to help you decide which card best suits your needs.

A strong welcome bonus can give your credit card a great start. The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card stands out by offering new cardholders $200 in cash rewards after spending $1,000 within the first three months. In contrast, the Citi Double Cash Card currently does not provide a welcome bonus for new applicants. This initial boost makes the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card an attractive option for those looking to maximize their early rewards.

When it comes to cash back rewards, both cards offer an unbeatable flat 2% on all purchases. The Citi Double Cash Card achieves this by providing 1% cash back when you buy and an additional 1% when you pay your bill. Similarly, the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card simplifies earning rewards with a straightforward 2% cash back on every purchase, making it easy to accumulate cash rewards without tracking categories or limits.

Beyond cash back, each card offers additional perks to enhance your experience. The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card includes cell phone protection if you use the card to pay your bill, reimbursing up to $600 for damage or theft. Cardholders also gain access to the Visa Concierge Service for travel and entertainment assistance and enjoy privileges through the Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection. On the other hand, the Citi Double Cash Card offers access to Citi Entertainment, allowing you to purchase tickets for various events. Overall, the Active Cash Card provides a broader range of added benefits.

Both the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card and the Citi Double Cash Card come with no annual fees, making them cost-effective choices. They both charge a 3% foreign transaction fee, which may not suit international travelers. When it comes to APRs, the Citi Double Cash Card offers an 18-month 0% introductory APR on balance transfers, whereas the Active Cash Card provides a 15-month 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers. Both cards have a 3% balance transfer fee, with the Citi card offering a slightly longer introductory period.

To determine the best value in credit cards, Select's editorial team analyzed popular U.S. credit cards based on rewards, bonuses, APRs, fees, and customer feedback. Partnering with Esri, the team used comprehensive consumer spending data to simulate savings over one, two, and five years. This thorough approach ensures that the comparisons reflect real-world usage and help consumers make informed decisions based on their spending habits and financial goals.

Both the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card and the Citi Double Cash Card offer strong flat-rate cash back with no annual fees, making them excellent choices for everyday spending. The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card edges out slightly ahead with a generous $200 welcome bonus and additional perks like cell phone protection and luxury hotel benefits. However, if a longer 0% APR introductory period on balance transfers is more important to you, the Citi Double Cash Card might be the better fit. Ultimately, either card is a solid option for maximizing your cash back rewards.