Kudos has partnered with CardRatings and Red Ventures for our coverage of credit card products. Kudos, CardRatings, and Red Ventures may receive a commission from card issuers. Kudos may receive commission from card issuers. Some of the card offers that appear on Kudos are from advertisers and may impact how and where card products appear on the site. Kudos tries to include as many card companies and offers as we are aware of, including offers from issuers that don't pay us, but we may not cover all card companies or all available card offers. You don't have to use our links, but we're grateful when you do!
U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card Review: 5% Cash Back Your Way
February 6, 2025
Rewards and Benefits
The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card is unique for its customizable 5% cash-back categories. Each quarter, you get to choose two categories (from a list of 12 options) in which you’ll earn 5% cash back, up to a combined $2,000 in spending per quarter. These 5% categories range from everyday expenses like fast food, home utilities, and cell phone providers, to retail and entertainment (department stores, electronic stores, furniture stores, sporting goods, gyms, movie theaters, ground transportation, streaming services, and select clothing stores).
You also select one 2% cash-back category (gas/EV charging stations, grocery stores, or restaurants) with no spending cap. All other purchases earn 1% back. Notably, the Cash+ card even gives 5% back on prepaid travel (flights, hotels, car rentals) booked through U.S. Bank’s Rewards Travel Center. To earn your 5% and 2% rewards, you must activate/choose your categories each quarter; otherwise, purchases default to 1%. New cardholders can also earn a welcome bonus, adding extra upfront value.
Despite these generous rewards, the card charges no annual fee, making it cost-free to hold. It also offers a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles – useful if you have big purchases or a balance to manage.
[[ SINGLE_CARD * {"id": "2353", "isExpanded": "false", "bestForCategoryId": "15", "bestForText": "Those Who Juggle Reward Categories", "headerHint": "Wide Array of Categories"} ]]
Rates and Drawbacks
As with many cash-back cards, interest and fees should be noted. After the intro period, the Cash+ card’s APR will vary based on creditworthiness, so it’s best to pay balances in full to avoid interest. Balance transfers incur a fee . Also, the card has a 3% foreign transaction fee, meaning it’s not ideal for use abroad. While the Cash+ has solid rewards, it does come with a few drawbacks to consider.
First, its rewards program is a bit complex – you’ll need to remember to choose and activate your categories every quarter and track that $2,000 quarterly 5% spending cap. Forgetting to do so means missing out on bonus cash back. The card’s “choose your own category” feature adds flexibility, but it requires more effort than a flat-rate card. Additionally, some category limitations apply: for example, Target and Walmart purchases don’t count toward the department stores 5% category, and “fast food” vs. “restaurants” are separate categories.
Another consideration is that Cash+ offers fewer side perks – it lacks travel insurance or shopping protections like extended warranty or purchase protection. U.S. Bank focused this product on cash-back value, so you won’t get luxury benefits. Finally, you’ll typically need good to excellent credit to get approved, as is standard for top rewards cards.
Comparing U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card with Other Credit Cards
When considering the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card, it's helpful to compare it with other popular options in the cashback credit card category:
- Annual fee: $0
- Sign-up bonus: Cash bonus after meeting spending requirements
- Key rewards: 5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% on dining and drugstores, 1.5% on all other purchases
- Standout feature: Flexible redemption options including cash back, travel, and gift cards
Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card:
- Annual fee: $0
- Sign-up bonus: Cash bonus after meeting spending requirements
- Key rewards: 3% on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery stores
- Standout feature: No foreign transaction fees
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express (rates & fees):
- Annual fee: $0
- Welcome offer: Cash bonus after meeting spending requirements
- Key rewards: 3% at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%), 3% cash back up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout
- Standout feature: This card offers a generous intro of APR on purchases and balance transfers
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
Each card offers unique benefits tailored to different spending habits and preferences. Consider your personal financial goals when choosing the best card for you.
Key Takeaways:
- U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card excels in offering reward categories for customers
- Chase Freedom Unlimited® offers diverse category bonuses
- Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card rewards dining and entertainment spending
- Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express provides strong rewards on everyday purchases
[[ CARD_LIST * {"ids": ["497","3041", "260"]} ]]
Maximizing Your Cash Back
The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa is a powerhouse for savvy planners. If your spending aligns with its bonus categories, you can earn up to $400 cash back per year just from maxing out the 5% categories alone. To maximize rewards, be strategic in selecting categories that match your largest expenses.Keep an eye on the quarterly activation window. It’s wise to set a calendar reminder to choose your categories each quarter so you never miss out.
Also, consider pairing the Cash+ with a good flat-rate cash-back card for non-category spending. Since the Cash+ gives only 1% on other purchases, using a 2% cash-back card for miscellaneous purchases will ensure you’re always getting above 1% back. In terms of comparisons, the Cash+ stands out against other 5% cards because you control the categories. With Cash+, you’re not at the mercy of whatever categories a bank decides – you get to pick what suits you. This makes the Cash+ especially appealing if you have specific big expenses.
On the other hand, if you prefer a simpler approach with no activation required, a flat-rate card or one with automatic bonus categories might be better. Ultimately, the Cash+ card rewards the proactive. If you’re willing to plan and optimize, it can out-earn many competitors in the no-annual-fee segment.
Kudos Tip
Juggling multiple credit cards for various bonus categories can be challenging. The Kudos smart wallet makes it easier by automatically recommending or applying the best card at checkout to maximize your rewards. In other words, Kudos can help ensure you’re using your U.S. Bank Cash+ when it earns 5%, and suggest a different card when another would earn more.
This kind of tool takes the guesswork out of optimizing categories – letting you enjoy the Cash+ card’s benefits without worrying about missing an opportunity. By leveraging technology like this, you can confidently squeeze every bit of value from the Cash+ and your other cards.
Conclusion
The U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card is a fantastic cash-back option for reward optimizers. It offers uncommon freedom to choose where you earn 5%, a feature that can translate into significant savings on the expenses that matter most to you. While it requires a bit of homework – activating categories quarterly and strategizing your spending – the payoff can be well worth it.
Remember to account for its few limitations, but for domestic spending and recurring bills, this card can be a star player in your wallet. If you value customization and have a plan to maximize the rewards (with a little help from tools like Kudos or your own tracking system), the Cash+ card can truly live up to its name by adding extra cash back to your budget. In short, for those willing to put in a bit of effort, the U.S. Bank Cash+ is an incredibly rewarding card – literally!
FAQ: U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card
Do I need to activate my categories each quarter for the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card?
Yes, you must activate your chosen 5% cash-back categories every quarter. If you don't activate them, your purchases will default to 1% cash back.
Is there a spending cap on the 5% cash-back rewards with the U.S. Bank Cash+ Card?
Yes, the 5% cash-back categories are limited to $2,000 in combined spending per quarter. After that limit, you'll earn 1%.
Does the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card have an annual fee?
No, the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card does not charge an annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for maximizing rewards.
Can I use the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card internationally without fees?
No, the card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee. If you frequently travel abroad, consider using a different card without foreign fees.
What credit score do I need to qualify for the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card
Typically, you'll need good to excellent credit, generally a score of around 700 or higher, to qualify for the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card.
Supercharge Your Credit Cards
Experience smarter spending with Kudos and unlock more from your credit cards. Earn $20.00 when you sign up for Kudos with "GET20" and make an eligible Kudos Boost purchase.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
