5 Best Credit Cards With No Annual Fee

Looking for a credit card that won’t charge you just for having it? You’re not alone. More people than ever are ditching high-fee cards and turning to the best credit cards with no annual fee, and for good reason. These cards let you build credit, earn rewards, and enjoy valuable perks without the yearly cost.

Whether you’re looking for cash back, travel rewards, or a way to build credit, there’s a no-annual-fee card out there that fits your lifestyle. Let’s dive into five of the best options available in 2025.

1. Citi® Double Cash Card

Best for: Simple, high flat-rate cash back

The Citi Double Cash Card is a top pick for anyone who wants straightforward rewards with no gimmicks. You earn 2% cash back on every purchase, 1% when you buy, and 1% when you pay it off. There are no rotating categories to track and no annual fee to worry about.

Key features:

• Earn unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases
• 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months (then variable APR applies)
• No annual fee

Why we like it: It’s simple, reliable, and one of the highest flat-rate rewards cards on the market.

2. Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Best for: Versatile rewards and bonus categories

If you’re looking for flexibility and value, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® offers a strong mix of rewards with no annual fee. You’ll earn 1.5% cash back on most purchases, plus 5% on travel booked through Chase and 3% on dining and drugstore purchases.

Key features:

• Generous cash back rates on everyday categories
• Intro 0% APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
• No annual fee

Why we like it: It’s one of the most well-rounded no-annual-fee cards for people who want bonus rewards without rotating categories.

3. Discover it® Cash Back

Best for: Maximizing rotating category cash back

The Discover it® Cash Back card offers 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter (like gas stations, grocery stores, or restaurants) after activation, up to a quarterly limit. You also earn 1% on all other purchases. The best part? Discover matches all your cash back at the end of your first year.

Key features:

• 5% back on categories that change each quarter
• Unlimited cashback match at the end of your first year
• No annual fee

Why we like it: If you’re willing to keep track of quarterly categories, the rewards potential is hard to beat, especially with the first-year match.

4. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Best for: Unlimited flat-rate rewards with extra perks

This is another excellent option if you prefer 2% cash rewards on all purchases, no matter the category. The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card also comes with cell phone protection (when you pay your bill with the card) and an attractive intro bonus.

Key features:

• 2% cash rewards on all purchases
• $200 cash rewards bonus after meeting the minimum spend
• Intro 0% APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers
• No annual fee

Why we like it: It’s simple, generous, and adds a little extra with benefits like cell phone protection.

5. Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

Best for: Fair credit applicants who still want rewards

Many top-tier cards require good or excellent credit, but the QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards card is a rare find that’s accessible for people with fair credit. You’ll earn 1.5% unlimited cash back and can be considered for a credit limit increase after six months of on-time payments.

Key features:

• Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
• Credit-building features
• No annual fee

Why we like it: It’s a smart choice for people building or rebuilding credit who don’t want to miss out on cash back rewards.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best credit cards with no annual fee isn’t about settling for less; it’s about getting more value without paying for it. Whether you want flat-rate rewards, category bonuses, or a solid option for building credit, there’s a card that fits your needs without costing you a cent in annual fees.

Before applying, make sure to consider your credit score, spending habits, and what types of rewards matter most to you. And remember, just because a card has no annual fee doesn’t mean it’s short on benefits.

FAQs About Best Credit Cards With No Annual Fee

1. What is a no-annual-fee credit card?

A no-annual-fee credit card doesn’t charge a yearly fee just for having the card. It’s a cost-effective way to build credit and earn rewards.

2. Can I still earn rewards with a no-annual-fee card?

Absolutely. Many no-fee cards offer strong cash back or travel rewards, often competing with fee-based cards in terms of value.

3. Do no-annual-fee credit cards have fewer benefits?

Not necessarily. Some offer benefits like purchase protection, extended warranties, travel perks, and more, just without the yearly cost.

4. Are no-fee cards good for beginners?

Yes. They’re ideal for first-time credit card users looking to build credit and learn responsible usage without committing to high costs.

5. Do I need excellent credit to get one?

While some cards require good or excellent credit, others (like the Capital One QuicksilverOne) are designed for people with fair credit or those building a credit history.