In the ever-evolving world of credit cards, one of the most sought-after features is the no-annual-fee option.
With consumers constantly looking for ways to save, credit cards without annual fees have become a top choice.
In 2025, there are plenty of options that offer valuable benefits without the burden of a yearly fee.
Let’s explore some of the best no-annual-fee credit cards available this year.
Why Choose a No-Annual-Fee Credit Card?
Before diving into the best options, it’s important to understand why no-annual-fee credit cards are so appealing.
These cards offer several benefits, including:
- Cost savings: No annual fee means more savings in your pocket, especially if you don’t carry a balance or use your card frequently.
- Access to rewards: Many no-annual-fee cards still offer great rewards like cash back, travel points, or miles.
- Building credit: These cards allow you to build or improve your credit score without paying an annual fee.
- Flexibility: If you don’t need a card for specific benefits like concierge services or premium rewards, a no-annual-fee card offers an affordable alternative.
With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at some of the best no-annual-fee credit cards in 2025.
1. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® continues to be one of the top choices for no-annual-fee credit cards in 2025.
This card provides a simple rewards structure and valuable benefits, including:
- 1.5% cash back on every purchase
- 5% cash back on travel purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal
- 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases
- 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 15 months
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card is an excellent option for those who want a straightforward way to earn cash back on their everyday purchases without worrying about an annual fee.
Plus, the sign-up bonus is hard to beat.
2. Citi® Double Cash Card
Another great no-annual-fee card is the Citi® Double Cash Card. With one of the most generous cash-back programs, this card offers:
- 2% cash back on every purchase: 1% when you buy, and 1% when you pay
- No categories to track, no enrollment required
- No annual fee, no foreign transaction fees, and no rotating categories
This card is perfect for individuals who want to earn a consistent cash-back rate on all their purchases without the hassle of keeping track of spending categories.
3. Discover it® Cash Back
The Discover it® Cash Back card is another excellent option for those seeking cash back without paying an annual fee. It offers:
- 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter (on up to $1,500 in purchases) — such as grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
- No annual fee
- Free access to your FICO® score
One of the most notable features of the Discover it® Cash Back card is the Cashback Match at the end of the first year.
Discover will match all the cash back you earn, which can result in a significant reward boost.
4. Capital One QuicksilverOne® Cash Rewards Credit Card
For those with average credit, the Capital One QuicksilverOne® Cash Rewards Credit Card is a fantastic option. It offers:
- 1.5% cash back on every purchase
- No annual fee
- Access to a higher credit limit after making your first five monthly payments on time
- No rotating categories or spending caps
The Capital One QuicksilverOne® card is great for people who want easy cash-back rewards without having to worry about meeting certain spending requirements or paying an annual fee.
5. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is another top contender in the no-annual-fee category.
Here’s what it brings to the table:
- 2% unlimited cash back on purchases
- 0% intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers for the first 15 months
- No annual fee or foreign transaction fees
- Cell phone protection when you pay your monthly phone bill with the card
If you want a solid cash-back rate without worrying about spending categories, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is an excellent option.
6. American Express Blue Cash Everyday® Card
If you’re looking for rewards at U.S. supermarkets, the American Express Blue Cash Everyday® Card is a standout choice.
With this card, you’ll earn:
- 3% cash back on U.S. supermarket purchases (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%)
- 2% cash back on U.S. gas stations and select department store purchases
- 1% cash back on other purchases
- No annual fee
The American Express Blue Cash Everyday® Card is great for families and individuals who spend a significant amount on groceries and gas, as it provides higher rewards in these categories.
7. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
For those who want to earn cash back in specific categories, the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card offers flexibility:
- 3% cash back on a category of your choice (such as gas, online shopping, dining, or travel)
- 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (on up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club purchases each quarter)
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
- No annual fee
This card is perfect for those who want to maximize rewards in specific categories and earn a good return on everyday spending.
8. U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card
If you are looking for long-term savings, the U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card could be ideal.
While it doesn’t offer rewards like some of the other cards, it has a 0% introductory APR for the first 20 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers.
This feature is perfect for people who want to make large purchases or transfer balances without paying interest for a long period.
- 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 20 billing cycles
- No annual fee
- Standard APR applies after the intro period
This card is especially valuable for those who are planning to make big purchases or want to transfer existing high-interest debt.
Conclusion
In 2025, there is no shortage of great no-annual-fee credit cards that offer valuable rewards, savings, and benefits.
Whether you’re looking for cash back, travel rewards, or interest-free financing, there’s a no-annual-fee card that suits your needs.
Before applying for any card, make sure to evaluate your spending habits and goals to choose the best one for you.
Choosing the right card can significantly impact your finances, so take your time to compare options and choose wisely.
The best no-annual-fee credit cards not only help you save money but also provide rewards that can make your everyday spending more rewarding.