Cash-back rewards programs offer you a rebate in the form of a check or statement credit when you purchase with your credit card. The American Express Blue Cash Preferred card, for example, offers 6 percent cash back on groceries, 3 percent on gas, and 1 percent on all other purchases. The card comes with a $75 annual fee, so you should weigh that charge against what you expect to earn in rebates before you apply.
Use your card responsibly and pay your bill in full every month to ensure you're getting the better end of the bargain. Rewards can be a wonderful incentive to sign up for a credit card, just make sure you manage yours effectively.
