The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card is one of the top-tier cashback credit cards available in the U.S. market.
Designed for individuals who spend significantly on groceries, streaming services, transit, and gas, this card offers some of the highest cashback rates in these categories.
Unlike general cashback cards, the Blue Cash Preferred Card provides accelerated earning rates on everyday purchases, making it an excellent choice for families and frequent commuters.
With a competitive welcome offer, a generous introductory APR, and valuable perks such as purchase protection and exclusive Amex Offers, this card stands out as one of the best options for maximizing savings on routine spending.
However, it does come with an annual fee, which may require careful evaluation depending on individual spending habits.
About the Financial Institution
American Express (Amex) is a globally recognized financial services company known for its premium credit cards, exceptional customer service, and exclusive membership perks.
Founded in 1850, American Express has built a strong reputation for offering high-value rewards programs, travel benefits, and security features.
The company is particularly well known for its Membership Rewards program, but its cashback cards, including the Blue Cash Preferred Card, provide equally impressive value.
American Express focuses on customer satisfaction, offering superior fraud protection, concierge services, and seamless digital account management through its highly rated mobile app.
Who Is This Card For?
The Blue Cash Preferred Card is ideal for individuals who:
- Spend heavily on groceries at U.S. supermarkets.
- Regularly use streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Spotify.
- Frequently drive, using gas stations and public transportation.
- Want a high cashback rate in key spending categories.
- Prefer a straightforward cashback system rather than complicated points programs.
- Are comfortable paying an annual fee in exchange for premium cashback rewards.
This card is particularly well-suited for families and urban professionals, as it allows them to maximize everyday purchases with impressive cashback earnings.
Advantages of the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card
- 6% cashback on U.S. supermarket purchases (up to $6,000 annually, then 1%), making it one of the highest-earning grocery cashback cards available.
- 6% cashback on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, allowing entertainment lovers to save on services they use regularly.
- 3% cashback on transit and gas station purchases, benefiting both commuters and drivers.
- 1% unlimited cashback on all other purchases, ensuring consistent rewards.
- Welcome offer with a cashback bonus for new cardholders who meet the spending requirement within the first few months.
- 0% introductory APR for a specified period, providing an opportunity to make large purchases and pay them off over time without interest.
- Contactless payment and mobile wallet compatibility, allowing for quick and secure transactions.
- American Express customer service and fraud protection, ensuring security and peace of mind.
Additional Benefits
Beyond its generous cashback program, the Blue Cash Preferred Card includes several exclusive benefits:
- Extended Warranty Protection – Extends the manufacturer’s warranty on eligible purchases, providing an additional layer of security.
- Purchase Protection – Covers eligible items against theft and accidental damage for a limited period after purchase.
- Amex Offers – Access to personalized deals and discounts from select retailers, restaurants, and travel services.
- Entertainment Access – Special access to presale tickets and exclusive events, including concerts, theater shows, and sporting events.
- Return Protection – Helps when a retailer won’t accept a return for eligible purchases, allowing customers to request reimbursement through Amex.
- Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance – Provides coverage against theft and damage when renting a car with the card, eliminating the need for costly rental company insurance.
- Global Assist Hotline – 24/7 access to emergency assistance for travel, including medical, legal, and financial referrals.
- Roadside Assistance Hotline – On-demand roadside support for towing, battery jump-starts, and flat tire replacement.
- Travel Accident Insurance – Protection against accidental death or dismemberment when traveling on a common carrier (airplane, train, or bus) using the card.
- Baggage Insurance Plan – Provides coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage when traveling with an eligible airline.
Fees and charges
Late Payment: Up to $40;
Returned payment: Up to $40;
● Introductory APR: 0% for 12 billing cycles;
● Standard APR: 18.24% - 29.24%;
● Balance Transfer Fee: either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer;
● Cash Advance: either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance.
Expert review
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card is one of the best cashback credit cards for everyday spending, especially for families and commuters.
It offers an industry-leading 6% cashback on U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 annually) and select streaming services, along with 3% on gas stations and transit.
The welcome bonus and 0% intro APR make it attractive for new cardholders.
While it has a $95 annual fee, its premium cashback rewards, purchase protections, and exclusive Amex perks make it a valuable choice for maximizing savings on routine expenses.
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+Positive points
- High Cashback on Groceries: Earn 6% cashback at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%).
- Great for Streaming Services: Get 6% cashback on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
- Gas and Transit Rewards: Enjoy 3% cashback at U.S. gas stations and on transit purchases.
- Welcome Bonus: Attractive introductory offer for new cardholders.
- Purchase Protection and Amex Perks: Includes benefits like extended warranty and fraud protection.
- Negative points
- Annual Fee: $95 annual fee after the first year.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: Charges a 2.7% fee on international purchases.
- Supermarket Spending Cap: The 6% cashback on groceries is limited to $6,000 per year.