American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Credit Card

By Raquel Oliveira • 12/21/2024

Earn 6% cashback on groceries and 3% on gas with the American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Card.

The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Credit Card is ideal for those who want to maximize cashback on daily purchases, with up to 6% cashback at supermarkets.

This card allows for significant savings on essential expenses like gas and entertainment, making it a valuable companion.

Users enjoy cashback in various spending categories, making it a versatile credit card. Additionally, new customers benefit from an introductory period with no annual fees. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this financial product.

Key Features of the Blue Cash Preferred Card

This card stands out by offering comprehensive and flexible rewards, allowing consumers to manage their finances effectively. It transforms your everyday spending into significant financial benefits, helping you save more.

Main Features:

• Welcome Bonus: Receive a $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first six months.
• Generous Cashback:
  • 6% on Supermarkets: Up to $6,000 spent annually in the U.S.; 1% thereafter.
  • 6% on Select Streaming Services: For eligible streaming subscriptions in the U.S.
  • 3% on Gas Stations and Transit: Includes public transportation and gas stations in the U.S.
  • 1% on All Other Purchases: Ensures every transaction contributes to your rewards.
• Rates and Fees:
  • Introductory APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months; variable rates between 19.24% and 29.99% thereafter.
  • Annual Fee: $95, waived for the first year, allowing new cardholders to enjoy benefits with no initial cost.

Additional Advantages of the Blue Cash Preferred Card

Beyond cashback rewards, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card includes purchase protections, annual credits, and flexible payment options. These features add significant value, making it a solid choice for those seeking security and convenience.

Additional Benefits:

• Purchase Protection: Covers newly purchased items against accidental damage or theft.
• Rental Vehicle Coverage: Provides protection against damage and theft for rental cars.
• Extended Warranty: Extends the manufacturer’s warranty on eligible products.
• Subscription Credits:
  • Up to $84 annually ($7 per month) for streaming services like the Disney Bundle.
  • Up to $120 annually ($10 per month) for Equinox+ fitness memberships.
• Flexible Payment Options: The “Pay It, Plan It” feature allows you to split larger purchases into manageable monthly installments with fixed fees.
• Redeemable Rewards: Rewards can be redeemed as statement credits to reduce your balance.

How to Apply for the Blue Cash Preferred Card

Applying for this card is straightforward, as long as you meet the requirements. Below are the steps to complete your application:

1. Visit the Official Website: Access the Blue Cash Preferred page on the American Express portal.
2. Complete the Form: Fill out your personal, financial, and contact information online.
3. Review Terms and Conditions: Ensure you agree to the outlined benefits and requirements before proceeding.
4. Submit Your Application: Provide the necessary documents to finalize your evaluation.
5. Wait for Approval: Receive confirmation via email or through the American Express app.

A good credit score (typically between 670 and 850) will enhance your chances of approval.

Maximizing the Benefits of the Blue Cash Preferred Card

To make the most of this card, strategically plan your spending. Use it for purchases at supermarkets, streaming services, and gas stations to maximize cashback.

Additionally, pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest and leverage annual credits for subscriptions or fitness memberships.

The “Pay It, Plan It” tool can also help manage large expenses by dividing payments into manageable installments. Monitor your cashback accumulation through the American Express rewards platform to stay on top of your benefits.

Understanding Annual Credits and Benefits with the Blue Cash Preferred Card

One of the most significant perks of the Blue Cash Preferred Card is its array of annual credits and added benefits, which enhance its value for cardholders.

For example, users can earn up to $84 in streaming service credits annually and $120 for Equinox+ fitness memberships.

These credits allow you to offset subscription costs, effectively reducing your expenses. Additionally, the card’s robust purchase protection and extended warranty features offer peace of mind when shopping.

With strategic use of these benefits, cardholders can maximize the overall value of the card, making it an essential tool for smart financial management.

Blue Cash Preferred Compared to Other Reward Cards

Compared to other cards, the Blue Cash Preferred excels with its impressive 6% cashback on supermarkets and streaming services—a rare feature in the market. While many cards cap cashback at 2% or 3%, this card offers significantly higher rewards in key categories.

Though the annual fee might be a drawback for some, the added benefits such as subscription credits and purchase protections offset this cost. For frequent shoppers in these categories, this card provides superior long-term value.

Is the Blue Cash Preferred Card Right for You?

The Blue Cash Preferred Card is perfect for those who want to maximize rewards on daily expenses. If you frequently spend on groceries, streaming services, and transportation, this card can save you hundreds of dollars annually.

However, if your primary spending doesn’t align with these categories, other no-annual-fee cards may be better suited. Evaluate your spending patterns to determine if the benefits outweigh the associated costs.

Conclusion

The American Express Blue Cash Preferred® Card is an excellent choice for those looking to maximize cashback on everyday purchases. With 6% cashback at supermarkets and 3% on gas and transit, this card offers substantial rewards for frequent consumers.

Additionally, its flexibility allows for easy redemption of rewards, whether to reduce your account balance or redeem for other products and services.

With American Express’s reputation for exceptional customer service and added perks like purchase protection, this card is a valuable tool for anyone aiming to optimize their spending.