Picked Wisely

Citi Double Cash® Card

Why this is your pick

The original 2% cashback card. Earn 1% when you buy + 1% when you pay. Now earns Citi ThankYou points that can transfer to airline partners — a hidden travel value most cardholders don't use. Choose this over Active Cash if you already bank with Citi.

Pros

  • Also earns transferable ThankYou points
  • No annual fee
  • Long-established, proven track record

Cons

  • Must pay bill to get the second 1%
  • No sign-up bonus traditionally (rare exceptions)