If you're looking for a credit card that lets you decide where you earn the most rewards, the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card is worth a close look. Right now, new cardholders can snag a $250 bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days. That's a solid return on a modest spending requirement. Plus, you get to pick two categories each quarter to earn 5% cash back, and one everyday category for 2% back—all with no annual fee.
How the $250 Bonus Works
The offer is straightforward: open a new Cash+ card, then spend $1,000 on eligible purchases within the first 90 days. Once you hit that threshold, the $250 bonus will appear in your rewards balance within one to two billing cycles. Just keep in mind that existing or previous Cash+ account holders aren't eligible, and this offer can't be combined with other promotions.
Choosing Your 5% Categories Each Quarter
What makes the Cash+ card stand out is the ability to pick your own bonus categories every three months. You get to select two categories that earn 5% cash back on up to $2,000 in combined purchases each quarter. After that, purchases in those categories drop to 1% back. The category list is pretty broad and includes things like fast food, home utilities, department stores, cell phone providers, electronics stores, and even gym memberships. You also pick one everyday category—gas stations, grocery stores, or restaurants—for unlimited 2% cash back.
- 5% categories: fast food, home utilities, TV/internet/streaming, department stores, cell phone, electronics, sporting goods, furniture, movie theaters, ground transportation, gyms, select clothing stores
- 2% categories: grocery stores (excludes discount stores/wholesale clubs), restaurants, gas stations/EV charging stations
- You must log in each quarter to activate your selections; otherwise, all purchases earn just 1%
Extra Perks and Redemption Options
Beyond the rotating categories, you'll earn 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel, and car rentals booked through the U.S. Bank Travel Center. There are also cash-back deals from brands you like, accessible through the mobile app. When it's time to cash out, you can take your rewards as a statement credit, a direct deposit into a U.S. Bank checking or savings account, or a rewards card (minimum $20, in $5 increments). Just be aware that rewards expire 36 months after the billing cycle they were earned.
- No annual fee and 0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers
- Visa Signature benefits: rental car insurance, retail protection, 24/7 concierge, purchase security, extended warranty
- No foreign transaction fees—a nice bonus for travelers
Bottom Line
- The $250 bonus is easy to earn with just $1,000 in spending over three months.
- Customizable 5% categories let you maximize rewards on your biggest spending areas.
- No annual fee and a 0% intro APR period make this a low-risk card to add to your wallet.
- Remember to activate your categories each quarter or you'll miss out on bonus earnings.
Common Questions
Can I change my 5% categories every quarter?
Yes, you can choose new categories each quarter, or stick with the same ones. Just make sure to log in and activate them before the quarter starts, otherwise you'll only earn 1% back.
Is there a minimum redemption amount?
For statement credits or direct deposits, there's no minimum. For rewards cards, you need at least $20, and you can redeem in $5 increments.
Does the $250 bonus count toward the 5% category spending limit?
No, the bonus is separate from the quarterly $2,000 cap on 5% category purchases.
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