Last updated on January 26th, 2022
Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, life has been turned on its head. Because of the devastating impact of the outbreak, the vast majority of Americans find themselves stuck at home. These “stay at home” orders are significantly reducing the value of many premium credit cards – especially travel cards. Fortunately, there are still plenty of excellent credit cards on offer that provide unique perks to make life during quarantine more bearable. Here are some of the best credit cards to consider during the coronavirus pandemic:
American Express Green Card
One of the bigger stories from the last few weeks is the addition of “at home” perks to American Express credit cards. Both the Platinum Card and the Green Card now offer statement credits for mobile phone and streaming services through December 2020.
While the Platinum card offers a larger credit ($20 per month, per service) in comparison with the Green Card ($10 per month, per service), the edge here has to be with the Amex Green Card. Why? The Green Card’s annual fee is a whopping $345 cheaper than the Platinum Card. So while an extra $160 in statement credits is excellent, given the travel restrictions of the coronavirus pandemic, the Platinum simply can’t make up the ground.
Related Article: American Express Adds “At Home” Perks for Travel Cardholders
Chase Sapphire Preferred
The shift towards rewards that people can actually use during the coronavirus pandemic is something almost every issuer is getting in on. Perhaps the most noteworthy bank to add coronavirus rewards is Chase.
Chase Sapphire Cards, plus select co-branded credit cards, now earn bonus points on groceries. The Chase Sapphire Reserve and United Club Infinite Card both earn 5X points per $1 on groceries through June 30, 2020. The Sapphire Preferred Card, plus this extensive list of co-branded cards, earns 3X points per $1 on groceries during the same period.
As is the case with the Amex Green Card, the best value during COVID-19 goes to the Sapphire Preferred. The card offers a significantly lower annual fee than the Reserve. Plus, the Preferred earns 2X points on dining, including takeout and deliveries. Once again, the lack of travel value also hurts the more expensive option, making the Chase Sapphire Preferred an excellent choice to consider.
Mastercard Titanium Card
Not all “premium rewards cards” offer reduced value during COVID-19. The Mastercard Titanium Card by Luxury Card is one top-tier product that delivers at home during the coronavirus outbreak.
While the Mastercard Titanium Card’s annual fee is $195, the everyday value the card provides is exceptional. All cards in the Luxury Card line offer complimentary membership with services like:
- Lyft: Cardholders that enroll and use their card for five Lyft rides in a month get a $10 Lyft credit.
- Fandango: Complimentary Fandango VIP membership allows users to earn 2X points at home.
- Boxed: Allows cardholders to receive 5% cash back when purchasing and shipping items in bulk.
Since the Titanium Card also comes with cell phone protection coverage, double the redemption value on airfare, and enhanced cash back over competitors, it’s an excellent option for those who want everyday value and a taste of elegance – but without a huge annual fee.
Discover It Cash Back Card
The Discover It Cash Back is always a popular option, so it only makes sense it joins the “Best Credit Cards During Coronavirus – COVID-19” list. The Discover It features no annual fee and 5% cash back in a rotating selection of categories. For April through June, cardholders earn 5% back on wholesale clubs, Uber, Lyft, and gas station purchases.
The 5% back at wholesale clubs is great, but 5% back on Uber adds exceptional value, given that it also includes Uber Eats. Even better? Come July, the card earns 5% back on all restaurants, plus PayPal. And since pretty much anything can be purchased online through PayPal, the 5% possibilities are endless!
Don’t Let the Coronavirus Keep You from Your Best Credit Card
While the coronavirus pandemic isn’t the ideal time to get a new credit card for everyone, for those in the market, there are still enticing offers available. Thanks to at-home benefits, unique rewards, and COVID-specific perks from issuers, there’s still plenty of excellent value out there. BestCards has in-depth reviews on all the leading credit card offers. Our comprehensive analysis can help you find the perfect credit card for your lifestyle. Check out our latest reviews, read our informative articles, and compare the top credit cards from issuers big and small.
Related Article: What Are the Best Secured Cards for Rebuilding Credit?
