Thread: Capital One Cash Rewards vs Citi Forward

I am a mid-20's young professional who is looking to expand my usage of credit cards, mainly for reporting purposes (think mint.com), credit reporting (do not have any car loans, mortgages, etc.), and to maximize savings via cash back. I only have one credit card, the legacy Amex Blue Cash (member since 2005) with 15k CL and 10% APR (ALWAYS paid off in full though every single month, never a late payment ever). I had a platinum credit card with a bank from 2004-2007 but closed it due to lack of use. I am debating whether or not I should upgrade my Amex Blue Cash to Everyday or Preferred, and am also debating adding another card for maximum savings and to diversity my credit. My estimated spending portfolio is as follows:

$100 per month in groceries
$175 per month in gas
$225 per month in restraunts/fast food
$500 per month in other misc. spending

What I'm wondering is, do you think I should upgrade to Blue Cash Everyday or Preferred, or keep current legacy? And what other card do you think I should add to my portfolio? Capital One Cash Rewards looks enticing due to 1.5% cash back everywhere, and no International Usage Fees. I do not travel internationally often, but I think this may be similar to always having a passport "at the ready" I should be prepared to travel if need be. Other one that looks good is Citi Forward, due to biggest usage category being dining and that earning 5% cash back on all dining that looks like a possible good pick. Based on my history, which one would you guys recommend? Or do you have any other suggestions? Thanks!

The new Capital One Cash is a good card as well as the Citi Forward. Both are great choices but given your spending patterns, one of the new Blue Cash credit cards may make more sense. Though keep in mind once you upgrade your legacy you cannot convert back, so make sure you weigh the pros and cons in doing so. If your spending increases significantly in the future than the legacy may be better but for most people and your current spending, the new versions are likely more favorable. Good luck.

-CCG

Do you travel on business? does the capitol1 say visa signature on the bottom? I don't think it's worth the 75 annual fee for the extra cash back whatever it is. an extra 1 percent back per item. not sure how much do you have to spend to get 6% back on gas?

I would be happy to have the basic blue cash 0 annual fee.

A Discover card is nice if you don't have 1, you get 5% back on rotating categories, small caps though.