Cash Back Credit Cards 101

Jun 06, 2025

Cash back credit cards let you earn rewards on purchases. You can redeem your rewards for cash back – typically statement credits, checks or direct deposits. You may also be able to redeem rewards for things like gift cards and travel.

How much you can earn and for what types of purchases depends on the credit card's terms and conditions, though most cash back cards work in similar ways. Here are some answers to common questions about cash back credit cards.

Cash back cards allow a cardholder to earn rewards when they use the credit card for purchases. The rewards can be redeemed for cash back rewards. Some cards offer the same amount of cash back rewards for all purchases made with the card. Other cards offer higher rates of cash back in specific or rotating categories with a base earn on other purchases. Depending on your credit card program, you may need to enroll to receive the additional cash back from the higher earn categor(ies).

Keep in mind that not every purchase may earn cash back. Always check the terms and conditions and consider how you will use a card when deciding whether it's right for you.

When redeeming cash back rewards, your credit card may have a few options. Common methods include:

You can redeem accumulated cash back for a statement credit. This way, you can apply earned cash back toward your credit card balance.
You can request a direct deposit or a check by mail.
You can redeem your rewards for specific items, such as gift cards. You may also be able to redeem your rewards directly at participating retailers.

Disclosure: This article is for educational purposes. It is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and is not a substitute for professional advice. It does not indicate the availability of any Citi product or service. For advice about your specific circumstances, you should consult a qualified professional.

Additional Resources

Insights and Tools >

Utilize these resources to help you assess your current finances & plan for the future.
FICO® Score >

Learn how FICO® Scores are determined, why they matter and more.
Glossary >

Review financial terms & definitions to help you better understand credit & finances.

Important Legal Disclosures and Information

Citibank.com provides information about and access to accounts and financial services provided by Citibank, N.A. and its affiliates in the United States and its territories. It does not, and should not be construed as, an offer, invitation or solicitation of services to individuals outside of the United States.

Terms, conditions and fees for accounts, products, programs and services are subject to change. Not all accounts, products, and services as well as pricing described here are available in all jurisdictions or to all customers. Your eligibility for a particular product and service is subject to a final determination by Citibank. Your country of citizenship, domicile, or residence, if other than the United States, may have laws, rules, and regulations that govern or affect your application for and use of our accounts, products and services, including laws and regulations regarding taxes, exchange and/or capital controls that you are responsible for following.

The products, account packages, promotional offers and services described in this website may not apply to customers of International Personal Bank U.S. in the Citigold^® Private Client International, Citigold^® International, Citi International Personal, Citi Global Executive Preferred, and Citi Global Executive Account Packages.

Deposit products and services are offered by Citibank, N.A., Member FDIC

Cash Back Credit Cards 101

Expand All

How does cash back work?

How do you redeem cash back?

Is there a fee to redeem my cash back rewards?

Is there a limit to how much cash back I can earn?

Will I earn more cash back for some purchases than others?

Can I use cash back rewards towards to pay my statement balance?

Do cash back rewards expire?

Is there a rewards redemption minimum?

Additional Resources

Insights and Tools >

FICO® Score >

Glossary >

Important Legal Disclosures and Information

Important Information