Best Gas Credit Cards in March 2026: Save on Fuel
Winner
Winner
Citi Custom Cash® Card
The Citi Custom Cash® Card tops our list as the best gas card in 2026 with its excellent cashback rate on gas, $0 annual fee and solid welcome offer.
Key takeaways
- There are two main types of gas cards: cards that offer a gas discount and cards that offer rewards on gas station purchases.
- The Citi Custom Cash® Card offers the best gas rewards if you use the card primarily for gas so the elevated rate on your top spending category can kick in.
- If gas costs more than $3.50 per gallon for you, a rewards card may provide you a better return than a gas discount card.
Although gas prices have dropped almost 10% nationwide since past years’ spikes, according to a LendingTree analysis, it’s still a good idea to use credit cards to save even more on gas purchases. Using gas credit cards is an excellent way to do so — they can provide increased cash back rates on gas purchases or a discount off every gallon you put in your tank.
- Best gas credit card: Citi Custom Cash® Card
- Best credit card for gas and groceries: Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Best small business gas credit card: Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
- Best credit card for gas and restaurants: PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card
- Best gas card for bad credit: Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card
- Best secured credit card for gas: Discover it® Secured Credit Card
- Best gas discount card: bp rewards Visa® Card
- Best hotel credit card for gas: Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
- Best travel rewards card for gas: Citi Strata Premier® Card
- Best Costco gas credit card: Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
10 best credit cards for gas
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Rewards Rate | Annual Fee | Welcome Offer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Citi Custom Cash® Card*
|
Best gas credit card
|
1% - 5% cash back
| $0 | $200 cash back
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
| |
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express*
|
Best credit card for gas and groceries
|
1% - 6% cash back
| $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. | As High As $300 statement credit
You may be eligible for as high as $300 cash back after spending $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 6 months. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Cash back is received as Reward Dollars, redeemable for statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout. Terms Apply.
| |
Ink Business Cash® Credit Card*
|
Best small business gas credit card
|
1% - 5% cash back
| $0 | 750 dollars
Earn $750 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first three months after account opening
| |
PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card*
|
Best credit card for gas and restaurnats
|
1% - 4% cash back
| $0 | $200 cash back
$200 bonus after you make $1,000 or more in purchases during the first three months
| |
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card*
|
Best gas card for bad credit
|
1% - 3% cash back
| $0 | N/A | |
Discover it® Secured Credit Card*
|
Best secured gas credit card
|
1% - 2% cash back
| $0 | Cashback Match
Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year.
| |
bp rewards Visa® Card*
|
Best gas discount card
|
15¢ off per gallon + 1% - 5% cash back
| $0 | N/A | |
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card*
|
Best hotel credit card for gas
|
3X - 12X points
| $150 | 130,000 points
Earn 130,000 Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 4/15/2026.
| |
Citi Strata Premier® Card*
|
Best travel rewards card for gas
|
1X - 10X points
| $95 | 60,000 points
Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
| |
Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi*
|
Best Costco gas credit card
|
1% - 5% cash back
| $0 | N/A |
Methodology: How we chose the best gas credit cards
We take a comprehensive, data-driven approach to identify the best gas cards. We use an objective rating and ranking system that evaluates over 200 credit cards from more than 50 issuers. All recommendations are made by LendingTree’s editorial team, completely independent of affiliate partnerships or compensation. Every card is selected based on its merit and ability to help people achieve their financial goals. We use the following criteria to make our picks:
We looked for cards likely to save you the most at the pump.
How easy are the rewards to redeem, and how valuable are the redemption options?
If the card charges an annual fee, do the rewards outweigh it?
Does the card offer a large sign-up bonus?
Does the card offer a 0% intro APR to help finance a big purchase or pay off a transferred balance? Is its regular APR reasonable?
Including cellphone protection and extended warranty protection, influenced our choices as well.
Overall winner
Citi Custom Cash® Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earning rate on gas: 5% cash back (if gas is your highest spending category)
Full rewards rate details
- Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter.
- Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2026
- Potentially generous cash back rate on gas purchases
- $0 annual fee
- Easy-to-earn sign-up bonus
- Intro APR offer
- Highest cash back rate capped at $500 per month
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- Low earnings outside your top spending category
If you spend a large amount on gas and are looking for a dedicated card for gas purchases, there are few cards on the market more rewarding than the Citi Custom Cash® Card. You can earn a high cash back rate in your top spending category each month (on the first $500) from a list of eligible categories, including gas and EV charging. Other spending earns 1% cash back.
If you max out your elevated spending each period, that’s $25 cash back a month — or $300 for the whole year.
- Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
- 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 17.99% - 27.99%, based on your creditworthiness.
- Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2026.
- No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
- No Annual Fee
- Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash® Card account per person.
Best credit card for gas and groceries
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earning rate on gas: 3% cash back* at U.S. gas stations
Full rewards rate details
- Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in eligible purchases (then 1%)
- Earn 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
- Earn 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) purchases
- Earn 1% cash back on other purchases
- Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout
- Excellent earning rate on U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations
- Solid welcome offer
- Useful monthly and annual credits
- $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
- Earning rate at U.S. supermarkets limited to $6,000 per year in purchases
- Foreign transaction fee
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express earns a high cash back* rate at U.S. gas stations and on public transit — with a generous rewards rate at U.S. supermarkets as well. You can also get up to a $10 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com or Stream.ESPN.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.
- Apply and find out your welcome offer. As High As $300 cash back* after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply, and if approved: 1. Find out your offer amount 2. Accept the Card with your offer 3. Spend $3,000 in 6 months 4. Receive the cash back. *Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed for a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
- $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
- Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.49%-28.49%.
- Plan It®: Buy now, pay later with Plan It. Split purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee so you don’t have the pressure of paying all at once. Simply select the purchase in your online account or the American Express® App to see your plan options. Plus, you’ll still earn rewards on purchases the way you usually do.
- Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in eligible purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) purchases and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.
- Get up to a $10 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred® Card for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com, or Stream.ESPN.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.
- Terms Apply.
Best small business gas card
Ink Business Cash® Credit Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earning rate on gas: 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year
Full rewards rate details
- Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year.
- Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year.
- Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn.
- High cash back rate in select business expense categories
- Generous sign-up bonus
- Intro APR offer on purchases
- $0 annual fee
- 5% cash back limited to first $25,000 per year
- Poor return on spending in non-bonus categories
- Foreign transaction fee
The Ink Business Cash® Credit Card is a great fit if your business spends a good amount on gas and at office supply stores. The card has limits on how much you can spend to get elevated rewards — so if you think you’ll approach the card’s maximum spending, it helps to have a flat-rate rewards credit card you can use to earn more than 1%.
The card also comes with a generous sign-up bonus on top of valuable gas rewards: Earn $750 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first three months after account opening.
- Earn $750 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first three months after account opening
- Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
- Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases on dining and gas each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- No Annual Fee
- Complimentary three-month lnstacart+ membership.
- 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
- Earn 5% total cash back on Lyft rides through 9/30/27.
- Member FDIC
Best credit card for gas and restaurants
PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earning rate on gas: 4% cash back
Full rewards rate details
- Earn 2% on grocery store purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants and 4% on gas station purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually
- Earn 1% cash back on purchases everywhere, every time.
- Low minimum spend needed to earn the welcome bonus
- Excellent elevated rewards categories
- $0 annual fee
- Cell phone protection insurance
- Annual cap on highest rewards rates
- Foreign transaction fee
If you frequently spend at gas stations and restaurants, you should consider the PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card. In addition to offering an excellent rewards rate on these two categories, this $0-annual-fee credit card offers cash back at grocery stores and on all other purchases. The downside is that these rewards rates are subject to an annual cumulative cap.
- $200 after you make $1,000 or more in purchases during the first three billing cycles
- You’ll earn at least 1% cash back on purchases everywhere, every time. Earn 2% on grocery store purchases, 3% on dining purchases at restaurants and 4% on gas station purchases for the first $8,000 in combined purchases in these categories annually.
- Cash back is automatic – there’s no need to enroll or track rotating categories
- 0% intro APR on balance transfers for the first 15 billing cycles following account opening when the balance is transferred within the first 90 days following account opening. Then a variable APR, currently 18.49% to 28.49% Variable based on credit worthiness.
- No annual fee.
Best gas card for bad credit
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earning rate on gas: 3% cash back
Full rewards rate details
- Earn 3% cash back in a category of your choice each month plus a 3% first-year bonus
- On the first $2,500 in combined quarterly purchases in your chosen category and at grocery stores/wholesale clubs, you’ll earn 6% and 2% cash back, then 1% thereafter
- After the first-year bonus ends, those rates become 3% and 2% on purchases up to the quarterly maximum
- Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Earn cash back in the category of your choice
- Recommended credit is less than many other gas cards
- Automatic account reviews for upgrade to an unsecured card
- $0 annual fee
- Requires an initial security deposit of at least $200
- Highest cash back rates limited to the first $2,500 in spending each quarter
- You have to manually change your elevated earning category if you want to update it
If you’re looking for cash back rewards on gas but have less-than-ideal credit, the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card is one of the most rewarding gas credit cards available. It is our pick for the best gas credit card for bad credit offers, offering solid rewards and regular account reviews to determine if you qualify to get your deposit back.
- Earn 3% cash back in a category of your choice each month
- Secure a credit limit up to $5,000
- Periodic account reviews to have your security deposit refunded
- Free monthly FICO® Score
Best secured credit card for gas
Discover it® Secured Credit Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earning rate on gas: 2% cash back
Full rewards rate details:
- Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter.
- Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- Bonus cash back on gas stations and restaurants
- $0 annual fee
- No credit score required to apply
- Chance to get your security deposit back in as little as seven months
- Requires an initial security deposit of at least $200
- Highest cashback earnings limited to $1,000 spent each quarter
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is our top pick for secured credit card for gas because of its $0 annual fee and the fact that you don’t need perfect credit to apply. This is a simple card that can help you build credit while earning rewards on common spending categories.
- No credit score required to apply. No Annual Fee.
- Your secured credit card requires a refundable security deposit, and your credit line will equal your deposit amount, starting at $200. Bank information must be provided when submitting your deposit.
- Automatic reviews starting at 7 months to see if we can transition you to an unsecured line of credit and return your deposit.
- Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. You'll still earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers—only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards.
- Get an alert if we find your Social Security number on the dark web. Activate for free.
- Terms and conditions apply.
Best gas discount card
bp rewards Visa® Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Discount on gas: Up to 15¢ off per gallon
Full rewards rate details
- Earn 15¢ off per gallon on fuel purchases at participating BP and Amoco stations
- Earn 5x points on non-fuel BP and Amoco purchases
- Earn 3x points on grocery store and dining purchases
- Earn 1x point on other purchases
- Discount on gas purchases
- Special gas discount for first 60 days after opening account
- Earn accelerated rewards rate on groceries and dining
- $0 annual fee
- Foreign transaction fee
- Cash back redeemable in set denominations starting at $25
The bp rewards Visa® Card offers one of the best discounts on gas if you fill up at both BP and Amoco. You can also earn points on categories outside of gas. Plus, for the first 60 days, you can save 50¢ per gallon.
- Limited time introductory offer: Earn 50¢ off per gallon on bp and Amoco fuel purchases in the first 60 days after account opening (ends February 1, 2026)
- Use your card anywhere Visa is accepted
- No annual fee
- Visa benefits, including roadside dispatch and zero liability
Best hotel credit card for gas
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earning rate on gas: 6X points at U.S. gas stations
Full rewards rate details
- Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton Portfolio.
- Earn 6X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations.
- Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
- Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
- Large welcome offer
- Rewards at U.S. gas stations, U.S. restaurants and U.S. supermarkets
- Complimentary Hilton Gold elite status
- Can only use rewards for stays at Hilton hotels and limited other rewards
- No free anniversary night unless you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
- Annual fee
The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is our pick for best hotel credit card for gas – it earns a high rate of rewards at U.S. gas stations and at U.S. restaurants in the form of Hilton Honors hotel points. You’ll also enjoy other benefits with the card, such as complimentary Hilton Gold elite status and the ability to earn a free night after spending $15,000 in the card in a year. If you’re a frequent Hilton guest who loves to drive, you’ll enjoy earning rewards on your gas purchases that you can use to earn free nights.
- Earn 130,000 Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 4/15/2026.
- Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Gold status with your Card. Plus, spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors Diamond status through the end of the next calendar year. Terms and Limitations apply.
- Get up to $50 in statement credits each quarter for purchases made directly with a property in the Hilton portfolio on your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card. That’s up to $200 in statement credits annually.
- Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
- Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
- Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
- Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
- Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
- As a Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card Member, you can enroll to receive complimentary National Car Rental® Emerald Club Executive® status through the link on your American Express online account. After you’re enrolled, you can reserve a rental car by calling National Car Rental directly, using your travel service, or by booking online or through the National Car Rental mobile app. Terms apply.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
- Whenever you travel more than 100 miles from home, Global Assist® Hotline is available for 24/7 emergency assistance and coordination services, including medical and legal referrals, emergency cash wires, and missing luggage assistance. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers. Other terms and conditions apply.
- Pay It Plan It®: Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
- Points don’t expire while your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is active and in good standing.
- $150 annual fee.
- Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
- Terms Apply.
Best travel rewards card for gas
Citi Strata Premier® Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earning rate on gas: 3X points
Full rewards rate details
- Earn 10x on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked through CitiTravel.com. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases.
- Earn 3 Points per $1 spent on Restaurants.
- Earn 3 Points per $1 spent on Supermarkets.
- Earn 3 Points per $1 spent on Gas and EV Charging Stations.
- Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on All Other Purchases
- Earn a $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
- Travel insurance protection: Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption (Common Carrier), Trip Delay, Lost or Damaged Luggage, MasterRental Coverage (Car Rental).
- Earn an outstanding welcome bonus
- Cash back includes EV charging
- Impressive array of elevated rewards categories
- 0% foreign transaction fee
- No introductory 0% APR offer
- $95 annual fee
The Citi Strata Premier® Card is a great travel rewards credit card with more high-earning rewards categories than many other cards on the market. You can earn ThankYou® Points at gas and EV charging stations, at supermarkets, and for air travel, dining and hotel stays. You can then transfer these points to Citi’s travel partners for maximum value, or redeem them for cash, gift cards and more. This card also sports a $100 yearly discount on Citi hotel visits over $500 (minus taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Plus earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
- Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
- Earn 10 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
- Earn 3 Points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
- Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
- No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
- No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
Best Costco gas credit card
Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earning rate on gas: 4% to 5% cash back
Full rewards rate details
- Earn 5% cash back rewards on gas at Costco and earn 4% cash back on other eligible gas and electric vehicle (EV) charging purchases for the first $7,000 combined spend per year, and then 1% thereafter.
- Earn 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases and eligible travel, including Costco Travel.
- Earn 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
- Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Excellent earning rates for gas, restaurants and Costco purchases
- 0% foreign transaction fee
- $0 annual fee with your paid Costco membership
- Bonus cash back rates include EV charging
- Requires a Costco membership
- 4% and 5% categories limited to the first $7,000 in combined spending per year
- Can only redeem rewards once per year
Buying gas at Costco does require a Costco membership (either $65 or $130 annually), but gas at Costco is often cheaper than at surrounding stations. And if you’re filling up at Costco, you’ll want the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi.
Keep in mind that you’re required to be a Costco member to get the card, and there are strict limitations on rewards redemption. Costco cash rewards can only be redeemed for merchandise or cash back at U.S. Costco warehouses, are only distributed once a year (after your February billing statement closes) and must be redeemed by the end of that year.
- Discover one of Citi's best cash back rewards cards designed exclusively for Costco members
- Earn 5% cash back rewards on gas at Costco and earn 4% cash back on other eligible gas and electric vehicle (EV) charging purchases for the first $7,000 combined spend per year, and then 1% thereafter.
- 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases and eligible travel, including Costco Travel.
- 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
- No annual fee with your paid Costco membership and enjoy no foreign transaction fees on purchases
- Receive an annual credit card reward certificate, which is redeemable for cash or merchandise at U.S. Costco warehouses, including Puerto Rico
Co-branded gas station credit cards
If you fuel up with a particular brand regularly, then it may be worth applying for a co-branded gas station card to get discounts at the pump. Keep in mind that it may be more valuable to get a typical rewards card for gas, but a co-branded card solely for gas could be more convenient to manage.
Examples of co-branded gas cards:
- Shell credit card: Shell | Fuel Rewards® Mastercard®
- Costco gas card: Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
- BP gas card: bp rewards Visa® Card
- Sam’s Club gas card: Sam's Club Mastercard
- ExxonMobil gas card: Exxon Mobil Smart Card+™
Do gas credit cards work for EV owners?
You may still want to pick up a gas credit card even if you own an electric vehicle and you’re not visiting the gas station. Some gas cards offer bonus earnings on EV charging as well as at gas stations. You’ll need to dig into the details of each card to know if it offers bonus cashback on EV charging. However, three cards in the list above, the Citi Custom Cash® Card, Citi Strata Premier® Card, and the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi all offer great rewards rates at EV charging stations.
If you’re traveling and unsure where to charge your EV, consider using a resource like ChargeHub to find a charging station near you.
Gas discount cards vs. cash back cards
The price of gas may determine whether you can save more with a cash back credit card or a gas discount card. If you live in an area with higher gas prices, a regular credit card can likely help save you more. Weighing the pros and cons of both options while also considering your area’s gas prices can help you decide which option is right for you.
Gas discount cards
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What’s the average price of gas in the U.S.?
Currently, the average price of gas in the U.S. is $2.95 per gallon, based on data gathered by AAA. It is important to note the current gas prices where you live, as that can help you determine whether you should get a gas discount card or gas cash back card.
If you live in a state with high gas prices, you should consider a gas cash back card, as you earn more on higher prices. However, if you live in a state with low gas prices, then a gas discount might be a more valuable choice. The table below provides the current gas prices by state across the United States.
Highest average gas prices (by state)
| Rank | State | Avg. price per gallon | % difference from avg. U.S. gas price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | California | $4.45 | 51.1% |
| 2 | Hawaii | $4.44 | 50.8% |
| 3 | Washington | $4.08 | 38.5% |
| 4 | Oregon | $3.70 | 25.6% |
| 5 | Alaska | $3.65 | 23.9% |
| 6 | Nevada | $3.59 | 21.9% |
| 7 | Arizona | $3.23 | 9.7% |
| 8 | District of Columbia | $3.20 | 8.7% |
| 9 | Pennsylvania | $3.17 | 7.6% |
| 10 | New York | $3.11 | 5.6% |
| 10 | Vermont | $3.11 | 5.6% |
| 12 | Idaho | $3.10 | 5.3% |
| 13 | Illinois | $3.09 | 4.9% |
| 14 | Connecticut | $3.05 | 3.6% |
| 15 | Massachusetts | $3.02 | 2.5% |
| 16 | Maine | $3.00 | 1.9% |
| 17 | New Jersey | $2.97 | 0.8% |
| 17 | Rhode Island | $2.97 | 0.8% |
| 19 | Montana | $2.95 | 0.2% |
| 20 | New Hampshire | $2.93 | -0.5% |
| 21 | Utah | $2.91 | -1.2% |
| 22 | Maryland | $2.90 | -1.5% |
| 23 | Florida | $2.89 | -1.9% |
| 24 | Delaware | $2.88 | -2.2% |
| 25 | West Virginia | $2.86 | -2.9% |
| 26 | Virginia | $2.85 | -3.2% |
| 27 | Michigan | $2.84 | -3.6% |
| 28 | North Carolina | $2.82 | -4.2% |
| 29 | Indiana | $2.79 | -5.3% |
| 29 | Minnesota | $2.79 | -5.3% |
| 31 | Georgia | $2.78 | -5.6% |
| 32 | New Mexico | $2.74 | -7.0% |
| 33 | Wyoming | $2.70 | -8.3% |
| 33 | South Dakota | $2.70 | -8.3% |
| 33 | North Dakota | $2.70 | -8.3% |
| 36 | Ohio | $2.68 | -9.0% |
| 37 | South Carolina | $2.67 | -9.3% |
| 37 | Nebraska | $2.67 | -9.3% |
| 39 | Alabama | $2.64 | -10.4% |
| 40 | Kentucky | $2.63 | -10.7% |
| 41 | Kansas | $2.62 | -11.0% |
| 42 | Missouri | $2.60 | -11.7% |
| 42 | Tennessee | $2.60 | -11.7% |
| 44 | Wisconsin | $2.59 | -12.1% |
| 45 | Louisiana | $2.57 | -12.7% |
| 46 | Mississippi | $2.56 | -13.1% |
| 47 | Iowa | $2.55 | -13.4% |
| 48 | Arkansas | $2.52 | -14.4% |
| 49 | Texas | $2.50 | -15.1% |
| 50 | Colorado | $2.48 | -15.8% |
| 51 | Oklahoma | $2.37 | -19.5% |
How to use a credit card at the gas pump
To use a credit card at the gas pump:
- Insert your card into the card reader or tap your card against the tap-to-pay symbol until the green lights flash.
- Or, to use a digital wallet, open the app, choose the right credit card and hold your phone near the card reader.
- Follow the prompts to complete your purchase.
How to avoid credit card fraud at the gas station
With the move away from cash to card and digital wallet transactions, it’s important to know the risks of these transactions. Gas stations are a hotspot for credit card “skimming.” Skimmers are devices placed on card readers that steal your card number and other information.
Anti-tampering tape has been made to repel card skimming, and most credit cards come with monitoring that alerts you to potentially fraudulent use. Fortunately, all major credit card issuers also offer zero liability protection.
To protect yourself from skimming, check the card reader to ensure that the anti-tampering tape is present and unbroken. If it is broken, do not use the reader and alert the gas station attendant. To prevent fraudulent use of your card information, take advantage of digital monitoring systems and check your card frequently for any unauthorized use.
→ See more: How to spot a credit card skimmer
How to maximize rewards on gas purchases
There are a couple of other ways to maximize your savings at the pump. First, you’ll want to sign up for any store loyalty programs that provide gas station discounts. Some gas companies also have their own gas rewards program where you receive a small discount simply for entering your loyalty number.
Another great resource is GasBuddy, a program that offers a discount at 95% of gas stations nationwide. Savings can be as high as 30 cents per gallon.
How to choose a gas credit card
-
Find out which stations you use the most
First, determine which gas stations you use most. If you frequent one brand of gas station, you might want to consider a co-branded credit card specific to that gas station brand. But if you use different gas stations or travel a lot, a general cash back credit card with bonus earnings on gas may be a better fit for you.
-
Look at earning limits
Next, you’ll need to decide whether a credit card or a gas discount card would be better for your personal situation. If local gas prices are high, a gas credit card will likely be the better choice. However, if you spend significantly on gas and a card heavily limits the amount you can earn over the course of a year, then you might want to carefully consider which card you get.
-
Determine reward-earning priorities
Then decide what kind of rewards you prefer. Some of the best credit cards offer cash back, airline miles, hotel points and flexible points via gas purchases. Decide what kind of rewards you want to earn, and remember that a card with multiple elevated earning categories, such as the Citi Strata Premier® Card, will allow you to earn increased rewards on several categories.
Or, if you don’t want to juggle more reward categories, a discount card may work well as a card used only for gas. Your decision might also be affected by how many credit cards you want to carry.
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Look at other card benefits
Many rewards credit cards also offer other perks or benefits that you might find useful. For example, a credit card that offers travel protection or primary rental car insurance might be something that would be more valuable to you.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, getting a gas credit card can help you build credit if you use it responsibly. Most credit card issuers report your account and payment history to the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion), which can positively impact your credit — so long as you pay your bill on time and keep your balance well below 30% of your credit limit. This demonstrates consistency and good credit utilization.
The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card is our pick for easiest credit card to get for gas rewards, as it’s geared toward consumers with limited / poor credit. (You’ll have to apply and approval is not guaranteed.) It requires you to put down a security deposit, which is one of the best ways to get a card with bad credit.
The best gas credit cards are likely to require good to excellent credit — typically considered to be a FICO Score of 670 to 850 — but some may accept fair credit, as low as 600. If you have no credit or poor credit, look into credit cards for beginners or secured cards.
The information related to the Citi Custom Cash® Card, Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, Ink Business Cash® Credit Card, PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card, Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card, Discover it® Secured Credit Card, bp rewards Visa® Card, Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, Citi Strata Premier® Card, Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi, Shell | Fuel Rewards® Mastercard®, Sam's Club Mastercard and Exxon Mobil Smart Card+™ has been independently collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
The content above is not provided by any issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of LendingTree alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any issuer. The offers and/or promotions mentioned above may have changed, expired, or are no longer available. Check the issuer's website for more details.
