Find the Best Gas Rewards Credit Card

What is a Gas Rewards Credit Card?

Gas rewards credit cards are cards that offer exclusive rewards on purchases of gasoline at gas stations. Gas credit cards typically provide their bonuses like cash back. However, some options let cardholders use their gas savings towards other types of loyalty program rewards. One example of such a card is the PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature, which allows holders to use their rewards for travel, merchandise, and other awards.

Fuel rewards cards are divisible into two unique groups: cards branded for one gas station chain (like the Marathon Visa, or cards with Exxon or Shell) and cards that offer savings no matter which station they are used at. The earning rate with these cards varies, from five cents to ten cents per gallon, or 1% to 3% cash back on gas purchases. There are, however, gas cards that earn much more than 3%, with the PenFed Platinum Rewards earning 5% on all gas purchases.

Another common feature of a gas rewards card is no annual fee. This is in line with many other cash back rewards credit cards, which don’t charge cardholders a yearly fee for the privilege of earning savings with their purchases. If you would like more information on how much you’re spending on gasoline per month, check out this helpful guide to automobile energy costs per state from ChooseEnergy.com.

What to Look for In the Best Credit Cards with Gas Rewards

Gas cards come in different shapes and sizes. When comparing different cards, here’s what to look out for:

• Where Can You Earn Rewards? Do you live near a specific brand of a gas station? Or is there a chain you prefer? Or do you want a credit card that offers you the flexibility to earn rewards no matter where you fill-up or even on everyday purchases?
• Are There Restrictions on Rewards? Does the gas station cap the number of rewards you can earn? Some brand-specific cards limit savings to the first 20 gallons, for example.
• Does the Card Offer a Signup Bonus? Some gas cards come with additional savings for the first few months.
• What Are the Credit Score Requirements? Gas credit cards typically have lower requirements than travel rewards credit cards. Some, however, have stricter rules than others, so make sure you read our comprehensive reviews before applying.
• What Fees Are There? Pay attention to the APR. Is there a 0% intro APR offer? If you plan on using the card outside of the United States, make sure it charges no foreign transaction fees.