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Published November 1, 2023

16 Best Cash-Back Credit Cards in Canada for November 2023

NerdWallet's picks for the best cash-back credit cards in Canada include top contenders across numerous categories. Choose the right one for your spending habits and financial goals.

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This may influence which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own.

When it comes to the complex world of credit card rewards, there are few words as simple — or as sweet — as “cash back.” If you’re looking for a cash-back credit card in Canada, you have plenty of choices.

Partner spotlight

TD Cash Back Visa Infinite* Card

Our pick for the best tiered rewards rate credit card in Canada, with a strong intro offer: Earn 10% in Cash Back Dollars in the first 3 months on Bonus Eligible Purchases up to a total spend of $3,500† plus Annual Fee is waived for the first year†. Account must be approved by March 4, 2024.
†Terms and conditions apply.

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Best Cash Back Credit Cards in Canada from Our Partners

Credit Card

Intro Offer

Rewards Rate

Annual Fee

 

Best for overall cash back

Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite* Card
Up to $200
1%-10%
$120
Waived first year

Best cash back for groceries

BMO CashBack® World Elite®* Mastercard®*
Up to $260
1%–10%
$120
Waived first year

Best cash back for online shopping

HSBC Cash Rewards Mastercard®
Up to $100
0.5%-1.5%
$0
Nerdwallet Logo Partner Spotlight
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Neo Secured Credit

Earn an average 5% instant, unlimited cash back at over 10,000 Neo partners with a guaranteed minimum 0.5% cash back. Plus, get up to 15% cash back on first-time purchases, all for no annual fee. Terms and Conditions apply*

Best cash-back credit cards in Canada

Best overall cash-back card

Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite* Card
Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite* Card
  • Annual Fee
    $120
    Waived first year
  • Interest Rates
    20.99% / 22.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    1%-10%
  • Intro Offer
    Up to $200
Our take
Why we like it

Earn up to $1,000 in cash back on grocery shopping and recurring bill payments with a 4% rewards rate in both categories.

Pros
  • It’s rare for a credit card to offer 4% cash back on two major spending categories. It’s even rarer to set a $25,000 annual limit to that 4% — a $1,000 value — before reverting to the healthy 1% base rate.
  • You can waive the $120 annual fee every single year by using the Scotiabank Ultimate Package.


Cons
  • The cash back earned is hands-off. You have to wait until November, and then it’s only redeemable as a statement credit. If you have a Scotiabank account, that annual payout can be deposited into your bank account.
  • The 4% rate won’t mean much to you if you don’t buy a lot of groceries or often buy your food at somewhere that Visa doesn’t classify as a grocery store or supermarket, such as Canadian Tire, FreshCo, London Drugs, Walmart and No Frills.
Card details
  • SPECIAL OFFER: Earn 10% cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months (up to $2,000 in total purchases). No annual fee in the first year, including on supplementary cards. Offer ends October 31, 2023.
  • Earn 4% for every $1 you spend on grocery store purchases, recurring bill payments, and subscription purchases.
  • Earn 2% for every $1 you spend on gas purchases and daily transit purchases.
  • Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases with no cash back limit.
  • Redeem cash back as a statement credit in November.
  • Visa Infinite benefits, including Visa Infinite* Concierge, Visa Infinite* Luxury Hotel Collection, Visa Infinite* Dining Series, and entertainment and lifestyle offers.
  • Save up to 25% off base rates at participating AVIS locations and at participating Budget locations in Canada and the U.S.
  • Access to Scotia SelectPay™.
  • To be eligible, $60,000 (individual) or $100,000 (household) annual income is required, or $250,000 minimum assets under management. Also, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident that is the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
  • Terms and Conditions Apply. Click ‘Apply Now’ for complete details.

Best for: Bad or no credit

Neo Secured Credit
Neo Secured Credit
  • Annual Fee
    $0
  • Interest Rates
    19.99%-29.99% / 22.99%-31.99%
  • Min. Deposit
    $50
  • Maximum Deposit
    $10,000
Our take
Neo Secured Credit is a no-fee card that earns cash back rewards and offers access to high-interest savings.

Pros
  • A small $50 minimum deposit makes this card accessible to consumers of all budgets.
  • Earn up to 15% cash back on purchases with select Neo partners.


Cons
  • Interest rates could be as high as 29.99% for some users.
Card details
  • Build credit history with on-time payments.
  • Set your credit limit and get started with as little as $50.
  • Guaranteed approval with no credit score needed to apply.
  • Earn 1% cashback on all gas and grocery purchases.
  • 0.5% guaranteed monthly minimum cashback.
  • No monthly or annual fees.
  • Upgrade to Premium and earn exclusive benefits and boosted rewards, like 3% cashback on all gas and grocery and free credit monitoring.
  • Personalized Insights AI generates tailored information and recommendations designed specifically for you.
Other secured credit cards to consider

Whether you’re looking to build credit from scratch or rebuild credit after a bad setback, a secured credit card can be an invaluable tool. See our selections for the best secured credit cards in Canada to find options that will help you strengthen your credit.

Best for: TD cash-back rewards

TD Cash Back Visa Infinite* Card
TD Cash Back Visa Infinite* Card
  • Annual Fee
    $139
    Waived first year
  • Interest Rates
    20.99% / 22.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    1%-10%
  • Intro Offer
    Up to $350
Our take
Why we like it

The TD Cash Back Visa Infinite Card is a smart card for families who spend a lot on gas, groceries and automatic monthly purchases.

Pros
  • Fantastic welcome offer with a $500 value.
  • Up to $2 million of Travel Medical Insurance coverage for the first 10 days of your trip (four days if you or your spouse are over the age of 65).


Cons
  • A $139 annual fee often comes with more perks and insurance. However, you can waive this cost every year if you’re a TD member with an All-Inclusive Chequing Account holding a minimum balance of $5,000.
  • The accelerated earn rate of 3% cash back is limited to $15,000 annual spend across all categories. After that, you’ll earn a flat rate of 1% cash back on all purchases.
Card details
  • Earn up to $500 in value†, including 10% in Cash Back Dollars in the first 3 months on Bonus Eligible Purchases up to a total spend of $3,500†. Conditions apply. Account must be approved by March 4, 2024.
  • To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening and you must add your Additional Cardholders by March 5, 2024.
  • Earn 3% in Cash Back Dollars on eligible grocery Purchases and gas Purchases†, and on regularly recurring bill payments† set up on your account.
  • Earn 1% Cash Back Dollars on all other Purchases made with your Card.†
  • Redeem your Cash Back Dollars to help pay down your Account balance whenever you please – the choice is yours!†
  • Your Cash Back Dollars never expire as long as your account is open and in good standing.
  • Interest Rates: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances.
  • Travel Medical Insurance† – Up to $2 million of coverage for the first 10 days. If you or your spouse is aged 65 or older, you are covered for the first 4 days of your trip. Additional top-up coverage is available.
  • Delayed and Lost Baggage Insurance† – Up to $1,000 overall coverage per insured person toward the purchase of essentials such as clothes and toiletries if your baggage is delayed more than 6 hours or lost.
  • Emergency Travel Assistance Services† – Help is just a call away. Toll-free access to help in the event of a personal emergency while travelling.
  • Complimentary Visa Infinite* Concierge†: On call, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help you get the most from life whenever you travel, shop and use your Card.
  • Emergency Road Services with Deluxe TD Auto Club Membership† is included with the product.
  • To be eligible, $60,000 (individual) or $100,000 (household) annual income is required. Also, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
  • †Terms and conditions apply.
  • This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
  • The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) is not responsible for the contents of this site including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any TD product, please click the Apply Now button.

Best for: Cash back on groceries

BMO CashBack® World Elite®* Mastercard®*
BMO CashBack® World Elite®* Mastercard®*
  • Annual Fee
    $120
    Waived first year
  • Interest Rates
    20.99% / 23.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    1%–10%
  • Intro Offer
    Up to $260
Our take
Why we like it

You won’t need a strategy to make the most out of this bonus-category card. The BMO CashBack® World Elite®* Mastercard®* spends like a flat-rate card thanks to stellar rates on four popular daily spending categories.

Pros
  • Score generous cash-back rates for popular spending categories: 5% on groceries, 4% on transit, 3% on gas, 2% on recurring bills, and 1% on everything else.
  • Feel protected with 13 types of insurance and fantastic travel benefits.


Cons
  • Spending categories come with easily-hit spending caps, but the 1% base rate still earns you value once you hit your monthly bonus rate limits.
  • The $120 annual fee is pretty steep. While we think you’ll more than make up for it through cash back savings, the no-fee BMO CashBack® Mastercard®* is a great alternative.
Card details
  • Welcome offer: Get up to 10% cash back in your first 3 months and the $120 annual fee waived in the first year.*
  • Earn more cash back on the categories that mean the most: 5% on groceries.* 4% on transit including ride sharing, taxis and public transportation.* 3% on gas and electric vehicle charging.* 2% on recurring bill payments like your monthly phone bill or favourite streaming service.* 1% unlimited cashback on all other purchases.*
  • Get the highest cash back earn rate on groceries in Canada.†
  • Get valuable benefits and offers for digital everyday services from a variety of on-demand apps and subscription services.
  • Extended Warranty Plus.*
  • Purchase Protection Plus.*
  • Complimentary membership in Mastercard Airport Experiences provided by LoungeKey.*
  • Access over 1 million Wi-Fi hotspots around the world – all at no added cost, and no added fees or roaming charges.*
  • Complimentary Roadside Assistance Program.*
  • BMO CashBack World Elite Travel and Medical Protection.*
  • BMO Concierge Service.*
  • Unlock Mastercard Travel Rewards cashback offers when you travel and shop outside of Canada.
  • *Terms and conditions apply.
  • †Statement based on a comparison of the non-promotional grocery rewards earn rate on Canadian cash back credit cards as of January 4, 2023.
  • BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information.
Other rewards credit cards to consider

No single rewards card is right for everyone. It’s all about how you spend money and what kind of rewards you value. See our choices for the best rewards credit cards in Canada to select the best option for you.

Best for: Shell customers

Neo Credit

Neo Credit
  • Annual Fee
    $0
  • Interest Rates
    19.99%-29.99% / 22.99%-31.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    1%-15%
  • Intro Offer
    $25
Our take
Neo Credit is a no-fee card that earns cash back rewards and offers access to high-interest savings.

Pros
  • High average cashback rate of 5%.
  • No annual fee.
  • 15% cashback on first-time purchases.


Cons
  • Perks can be added, but for a fee.
  • Purchase interest rate can reach as high as 29.99%, and cash advance rate can reach 31.99%.
Card details
  • No annual fees.
  • Earn instant unlimited cashback at thousands of partners that you can save for later or use immediately.
  • Access exclusive welcome bonuses, like up to 15% cashback on first-time purchases.
  • Earn an average of 5% cashback at 10,000+ partners across the country.
  • Pay with Neo Credit to earn cashback. Then split the bill in the app to send multiple Interac e-Transfer® requests instantly. The payments will be directly deposited into your Neo Money™ account.
  • Cash out the cashback you’ve earned with Neo Credit to a Neo Money™ account to take advantage of one of the highest everyday interest rates.
  • Customers can get up to 4% cashback on all purchases at Shell gas stations and convenience locations when they use their Neo Credit, Neo Secured Credit or Neo Money™ card. Earn 2% cashback at the pump or convenience store locations. Earn 4% cashback on transactions made through the Shell App. Offer available in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. Boost these offers by 50% when you add Everyday Essentials perks to your card.

Best for: Customizable spending categories

Tangerine World Mastercard®
Tangerine World Mastercard®
  • Annual Fee
    $0
  • Interest Rates
    19.95%
  • Rewards Rate
    0.5%-10%
  • Intro Offer
    Up to $100
Our take
Why we like it

You can earn unlimited cash back at a 2% rate in up to three categories of your choice and 0.50% back on other everyday purchases while benefiting from exclusive Tangerine World Mastercard® perks and insurance cover.

Pros
  • Choose the best 2% rewards categories for you based on your spending.
  • A variety of additional perks like savings on subscription services, rental car collision/loss damage, mobile device insurance, and more.


Cons
  • Higher eligibility requirement for gross income.
Card details
  • Apply for a Tangerine World Mastercard® by January 31st, 2024 and earn an extra 10% back* (up to $100) when you spend up to $1,000 in everyday purchases within your first 2 months.
  • Earn 2% Money-Back Rewards on purchases in two 2% Money-Back Categories of your choice, and 0.50% Money-Back Rewards on all other purchases.
  • Have your Money-Back Rewards deposited into a Tangerine Savings Account, and get a 3rd 2% Money-Back Category.
  • No limit on the amount of Money-Back Rewards you can earn.
  • Change your 2% Money-Back Categories to suit your spending.
  • With Mastercard Travel Rewards, you can unlock cashback offers and get a rebate applied directly to your statement, by using your Tangerine World Mastercard at select merchants that accept Mastercard while travelling outside of Canada.
  • Save on the things you love with your Tangerine World Mastercard. Enjoy special benefits and offers from a growing lineup of on-demand apps and subscription services made available to you as a Tangerine World Mastercard cardholder.
  • Make the most of your travel with Mastercard® Travel Pass Provided by DragonPass. Your complimentary membership gives you exclusive dining, retail and spa offers in over 650 airports worldwide, along with access to over 1,300 airport lounges at $32 USD per visit. Learn more at Mastercard® Travel Pass.
  • Rental Car Collision/Loss Damage Insurance**: Damage and theft protection for your car rental when you rent for up to 31 consecutive days and charge the full cost of your rental to your Card.
  • Mobile Device Insurance**: Protection on new cell phones, smartphones or tablets when you charge the full cost to your Card, or when you purchase it through a plan and charge all of your wireless bill payments to your Card. Covers up to $1,000 if your mobile device is lost, stolen, accidentally damaged or experiences mechanical failure.
  • Preferred rates: 19.95% for purchases and cash advances.
  • To be eligible, a $60,000 (individual) annual income is required. Also, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
Best for: Newcomers

BMO CashBack® Mastercard®*

BMO CashBack® Mastercard®*
  • Annual Fee
    $0
  • Interest Rates
    20.99% / 22.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    0.5%-5%
  • Intro Offer
    Up to $125
Our take
Why we like it

The BMO CashBack® Mastercard®* offers attractive earn rates on everyday purchases like groceries and utility bills, making it easy to quickly rack up rewards that you can turn into cold hard cash.

Pros
  • Attractive introductory offer, especially if you’re interested in a balance transfer.
  • No minimum threshold for redeeming your cash-back rewards. Redeem as little as $1 if you want.


Cons
  • Accelerated earn rates for groceries and recurring bills are capped at $500 per billing cycle, a ceiling that might be easy to hit if you have a family or higher monthly balances.
  • Offers fewer travel perks and types of insurance than some other cards.
Card details
  • Welcome offer: Get 5% cash back in your first 3 months.*
  • Then get 3% cash back on grocery purchases, 1% cash back on recurring bill payments and 0.5% unlimited cash back on all other purchases!*
  • Now earn the highest cash back on groceries in Canada without paying an annual fee!†
  • Get a 0.99% introductory interest rate on Balance Transfers for 9 months, 2% fee applies to balance amounts transferred.*
  • No Annual fee.*
  • Want to get your cash back ASAP? Now you can redeem your cash back anytime through direct deposit, as a credit on your statement or into your BMO InvestorLine account.*
  • Extended Warranty.*
  • Purchase Protection.*
  • Receive a discount on car rentals.*
  • *Terms and conditions apply.
  • †Statement based on a comparison of the non-promotional grocery rewards earn rate on Canadian cash back credit cards as of January 4, 2023.
  • BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information.

Best for: Businesses

BMO CashBack® Business Mastercard®*
BMO CashBack® Business Mastercard®*
  • Annual Fee
    $0
  • Interest Rates
    19.99% / 22.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    0.75%-10%
  • Intro Offer
    Up to $150
Our take
Why we like it

The BMO CashBack® Business Mastercard®* offers strong earn rates on gas, office supplies and bill payments, making it a smart no-fee choice for businesses looking to be rewarded for buying daily essentials.

Pros
  • No annual fee.
  • Rewarding intro offer.
  • Automatic rebates through the Mastercard Easy Savings program.


Cons
  • If you don’t frequent Shell gas stations you’ll miss out on the most savings.
Card details
  • Welcome Offer: Get 10% cash back on gas, office supplies and cell phone/internet bills for 3 months.*
  • 0.00% introductory interest rate on Balance Transfers for 9 months with a 3% transfer fee.*
  • Get 1.5% cash back on eligible gas stations, office supplies purchases and on your cell phone and internet recurring payments.*
  • Get 1.75% cash back on purchases at Shell®†† gas stations.
  • 0.75% cash back on all other card purchases.*
  • 25 payment grace days.*
  • Optional Employee Cards – empower employees with delegated purchasing authority.*
  • Use your card at Costco locations across Canada.*
  • Liability Waiver Program protects your business against employee card abuse.*
  • Get cash advances at any BMO Bank of Montreal branch or at more than 1 million ATMs worldwide.*
  • Worldwide Acceptance.
  • *Terms and conditions apply.
  • BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information.
Other business credit cards to consider

From flat-rate rewards on office expenses to credit cards boasting low-interest rates, see our choices for Canada’s best business credit cards.

Best for: Students

BMO CashBack® Mastercard®* for Students

BMO CashBack® Mastercard®* for Students
  • Annual Fee
    $0
  • Interest Rates
    20.99% / 22.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    0.5%–5%
  • Intro Offer
    Up to $125
Our take
Why we like it

The BMO CashBack® Mastercard®* for Students has impressive earn rates — including 3% on groceries — and valuable perks, all without an annual fee.

Pros
  • Earn flexible and easy-to-redeem cash rewards on everyday purchases.
  • There’s no minimum threshold for redeeming your cash-back rewards. Redeem as little as $1 if you want.


Cons
  • Accelerated earn rates for groceries and recurring bills are capped at $500 per billing cycle.
  • Insurance is limited to extended warranty and purchase protection.
Card details
  • Welcome offer: Get 5% cash back in your first 3 months.*
  • Then get 3% cash back on grocery purchases, 1% cash back on recurring bill payments and 0.5% unlimited cash back on all other purchases!*
  • Now earn the highest cash back on groceries in Canada without paying an annual fee!†
  • Get cash back every time you spend, plus start building a healthy credit history.
  • Want to get your cash back ASAP? Now you can redeem your cash back anytime through direct deposit, as a credit on your statement or into your BMO InvestorLine account.*
  • No Annual fee.*
  • Extended Warranty.*
  • Purchase Protection.*
  • Receive a discount on car rentals.*
  • *Terms and conditions apply.
  • †Statement based on a comparison of the non-promotional grocery rewards earn rate on Canadian cash back credit cards as of January 4, 2023.
  • BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information.
Other student credit cards to consider

Finding a student credit card with the right combination of features for your lifestyle can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time choosing a card. Compare our picks for the best student credit cards in Canada to find the best choice for you.

Best for: Cash back on everyday purchases

SimplyCash® Card from American Express
SimplyCash® Card from American Express
  • Annual Fee
    $0
  • Interest Rates
    20.99% / 21.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    1.25%-2%
  • Intro Offer
    Up to $100
Our take
Why we like it

Take advantage of an accelerated earn rate of 2% cash back on gas and groceries, then enjoy a flat rewards rate of 1.25%, which makes it easy to earn cash back on every purchase.

Pros
  • An easy-to-understand rewards structure.
  • Cardholders enjoy exclusive access, special offers and events, and more through American Express Experiences and Front of the Line Reserved tickets and presales.


Cons
  • The accelerated 2% earn rate won’t earn you more than $300 in cash back annually.
Card details
  • In your first 10 months as a new SimplyCash® Card from American Express Cardmember, you can earn a $10 statement credit for each monthly billing period in which you spend $300 in purchases on your Card. This could add up to $100 in statement credits in the first 10 months.
  • Earn accelerated earn rates on eligible gas and grocery purchases.
  • Earn 2% cash back on eligible gas purchases in Canada, 2% cash back on eligible grocery purchases in Canada (up to $300 cash back annually), and 1.25% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
  • Access events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with American Express® Experiences.
  • Insurance coverage and 24/7 Customer Service.
  • American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.

Best for: Prepaid cash-back rewards

KOHO Prepaid Mastercard (Essential Plan)
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard (Essential Plan)
  • Annual Fee
    $48
  • Rewards Rate
    0.25%-5%
  • Min. Deposit
    $0
  • Maximum Deposit
    $200,000
  • Intro Offer
    Free 30-day trial
Our take
Why we like it

With Cashback on eligible purchases, the ability to earn interest on your balance and discounted rates for credit building add-ons, this is not your typically prepaid card.

Pros
  • Low annual fee of $48 ($4 per month).
  • Ability to earn between 2% and 4.5% interest on your balance.
  • Ability to earn between 0.25% and 5% cashback on eligible purchases.


Cons
  • Credit-building option is not included for free.
  • No insurance coverage.
Card details
  • Low annual fee.
  • No interest rate on purchases as it’s a prepaid card.
  • Between 2% and 4.5% interest earned on balances.
  • Between 0.25% and 5% cashback on eligible purchases.
  • Discount on credit-building add-on ($7/month).
  • To be eligible, you must be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
Other prepaid credit cards to consider

A prepaid credit card, more accurately known as a “prepaid card, ” can be a budgeting tool or an easy way to make convenient online or in-store purchases. Many of our choices for the best prepaid cards in Canada even earn rewards.

Best for: Online purchases

HSBC Cash Rewards Mastercard®
HSBC Cash Rewards Mastercard®
  • Annual Fee
    $0
  • Interest Rates
    20.99% / 22.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    0.5%-1.5%
  • Intro Offer
    Up to $100
Our take
Why we like it

An accelerated cash back rate on online purchases means those that prefer to shop online will get the most bang for their buck — up to an annual spend of $6,000. And the inclusion of mobile device insurance provides peace of mind should your phone be damaged, lost or stolen.

Pros
  • Mobile device insurance.
  • Earn cash back on all purchases.


Cons
  • You can only earn accelerated cash back rewards for up to $6,000 in online purchases annually.
Card details
  • Earn an additional 10% cashback* on up to $1,000 in purchases for the first 60 days! Must apply by September 29, 2023. Conditions apply.
  • For the first 60 days, earn up to: 11.5% cash back on eligible online purchases, 11% cash back on eligible gas, grocery and drugstore, 10.5% cash back on all other everyday purchases.
  • Ongoing cash back earnings as follows after the first 60 days:
  • 1.5% cash back on up to $6,000 of your online purchases (including streaming services, online subscriptions and food delivery).
  • 1% cash back on your gas, grocery and drugstore purchases.
  • 0.5% cash back on (almost) everything else you buy with your card.
  • Redeem sooner – You only need to reach $25 in cash back to redeem.
  • Redeem when you want – Redeem for cash back as a statement credit online. See how easy it is at rewards.hsbc.ca.
  • Redeem to pay down or save up – Use your cash back for a credit towards your residential mortgage account, or credit card, or to top up your savings account.
  • Primary cardholder annual fee: $0
  • Annual Interest on Purchases: 20.99%.
  • Authorized User Annual Fee: $0 Per Card.
  • *Terms and Conditions Apply.
  • ®/TM Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. Used pursuant to license.
Best for: Cash back on restaurants

Simplii Financial™ Cash Back Visa Card

Simplii Financial™ Cash Back Visa Card
  • Annual Fee
    $0
  • Interest Rates
    19.99% / 22.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    0.5%-10%
  • Intro Offer
    Up to $100
Our take
Why we like it

The $0-annual-fee Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa Card earns bonus cash-back on the purchases you make almost every day.

Pros
  • Earn up to 4% cash back on eligible purchases in restaurants, bars and coffee shops.
  • Get cash back on fee-free global money transfers.


Cons
  • The 0.5% base rate isn’t exactly impressive, but it only applies after you hit the annual spending limits of bonus categories.
  • It only includes purchase security and extended protection insurance.
Card details
  • 4% on restaurant, bar and coffee shops, up to $5,000 per year.
  • 1.5% on gas, groceries, drugstores and pre-authorized payments, up to $15,000 per year.
  • 0.5% on everything else.
  • Plus, for your first 3 months, enjoy 20% bonus cash back on eligible gas, groceries, drugstore purchases and pre-authorized payments (up to $500 spend).
  • Redeem cash back as a statement credit in December.
  • No annual fee.
  • Cash back when you send money abroad with a Simplii Financial Global Money Transfer. No transaction fees and no interest charges.
  • Purchase security and extended protection insurance provided.
  • Preferred rates: 19.99% for purchases, 22.99% for cash advances.
  • To be eligible, a $15,000 (individual) annual income is required. Also, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident (excluding Quebec) that is the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
Best for: Low annual fee

MBNA Smart Cash World Mastercard®

MBNA Smart Cash World Mastercard®
  • Annual Fee
    $39
  • Interest Rates
    19.99% / 24.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    1%-2%
  • Intro Offer
    Up to $150
Our take
Why we like it

The MBNA Smart Cash World Mastercard’s 2% back on gas and groceries makes it a solid choice for big households with multiple cars.

Pros
  • Low annual fee ($39).
  • Add up to nine authorized users for free.


Cons
  • High cash advance rate.
  • Minimal insurance coverage.
Card details
  • 2% back on gas and groceries, 1% back on everything else.
  • Nine free additional cards.
  • Low annual fee ($39).
  • 10% off base car rental rates at Avis and Budget.
  • Rental car insurance.
  • MBNA payment plans for large purchases (6-, 12- and 18-month terms available).
  • Purchase protection and extended warranty.
  • Preferred rates: 19.99% for purchases, 24.99% for cash advances.
  • o be eligible, $60,000 (individual) or $100,000 (household) annual income is required.

Best for: Cash back on gas

CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite Card
CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite Card
  • Annual Fee
    $120
    Waived first year
  • Interest Rates
    20.99% / 22.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    1%-4%
  • Intro Offer
    N/A
Our take
Why we like it

You can earn some extremely attractive rates on gas and groceries with the CIBC Dividend Visa Infinite Card — up to a $3,200 cash-back value.

Pros
  • Flexible and easy redemption. You can redeem cash back anytime through CIBC Online and Mobile Banking.
  • Generous cash back rates on five popular spending categories.


Cons
  • You’ll only earn 1% cash back after spending $80,000 across bonus categories. Most credit cards have specific limits for each category, but the CIBC Dividend Visa Infinite collectively caps all bonus rates with an $80,000 limit.
  • Insurance offerings are limited compared to what you might expect from a card with a $120 annual fee. However, you can avoid this cost every single year with a CIBC Smart Plus™ Account.
Card details
  • 4% on groceries, gas, and electric vehicle charging, and 2% on transportation, dining and recurring payments. Accelerated rates apply to the first $80,000 spent per year.
  • 1% on everything else, and after spending $80,000.
  • 0.25% cash back for every $1 spent on a CIBC Global Money Transfer, with no foreign transaction fees.
  • Redeem a minimum of $25 cash back at any time through CIBC Online and Mobile Banking.
  • $120 annual fee.
  • Visa Infinite benefits, including Visa Infinite Concierge, Visa Infinite Luxury Hotel Collection, Visa Infinite Dining Series, and entertainment and lifestyle offers.
  • Save up to 10 cents per litre at Chevron, Ultramar and Pioneer gas stations when you link your card with Journie Rewards.
  • Access to CIBC Pace It.
  • Five types of insurance provided, including 10-day out-of-province/out-of-country emergency medical benefits — up to $5 million in coverage.
  • Preferred rates: 20.99% for purchases, 22.99% for cash advances.
  • To be eligible, $60,000 (individual) or $100,000 (household) annual income is required. Also, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
Best for: Amazon shoppers

Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard®

Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard®
  • Annual Fee
    $0
  • Interest Rates
    19.99% / 22.99%
  • Rewards Rate
    1%-5%
  • Intro Offer
    Up to $215
Our take
Why we like it

Ideal for Amazon shoppers with 2.5% back on all eligible Amazon.ca and Whole Foods purchases. Plus, Amazon Prime members get 2.5% back on eligible foreign currency transactions.

Pros
  • No annual fee.
  • Apply rewards to eligible Amazon.ca purchases.


Cons
  • Amazon Prime membership required for higher earn rate.
Card details
  • Get up to a $65 Amazon.ca Gift Card instantly upon approval.
  • Plus earn 5% back on your first $3,000 in eligible purchases at Amazon.ca, Whole Foods Market stores, grocery stores, and restaurants.
  • Earn rewards on eligible purchases at Amazon.ca — including Whole Foods Market stores in Canada.
  • After the welcome offer ends, eligible Prime members get 2.5% back on eligible purchases at Amazon.ca and Whole Foods Market stores.
  • Eligible Prime members always get 2.5% back on eligible foreign currency transactions to help cover foreign transaction fees.
  • After the welcome offer ends, non-Prime members get 1.5% back on eligible purchases at Amazon.ca and Whole Foods Market stores. Always get 1% back on eligible foreign currency transactions to help cover foreign transaction fees.
  • Receive 1% back on eligible purchases everywhere else Mastercard is accepted.
  • Rewards can be redeemed at Amazon.ca and applied directly to eligible Amazon.ca items.
  • No annual credit card fee.
  • The MBNA Payment Plan can make it more convenient to pay for large purchases and manage a budget. Pay for eligible credit card purchases of $100 or over by making monthly payments. Choose from three Payment Plan terms: 6, 12 or 18 months. Conditions and fees apply.
  • Preferred rates: 19.99% for purchases, 22.99% for cash advances.
  • To be eligible, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
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Methodology to choose the best cash-back credit cards

NerdWallet Canada selects the best cash-back credit cards based on overall consumer value as well as their suitability for specific kinds of consumers. Factors in our evaluation methodology include each card’s cash-back earning rates, rewards structure (such as flat-rate or bonus categories), annual fee, redemption options, promotional APR period for purchases, bonus offers for new cardholders, and noteworthy features such as insurance, loyalty bonuses or the ability to choose one’s own rewards categories.

    Summary of best cash-back credit cards

    Card nameCard featuresAnnual feeIntro offer
    Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite* cardBest overall cash-back card.$120Up to $200
    Neo Secured CreditBest for: Bad or no credit.$0$25
    Simplii Financial™ Cash Back Visa CardBest for: Cash back on restaurants.$0Up to $100
    KOHO Standard Prepaid Mastercard - Essential Subscription PlanBest for: Prepaid cash-back rewards.$48N/A
    Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard®Best for: Amazon shoppers.$0Up to $215
    BMO CashBack World Elite MastercardBest for: Cash back on groceries.$120Up to $260
    Tangerine World MastercardBest for: Customizable spending categories.$0Up to $100
    BMO CashBack MastercardBest for: Newcomers.$0Up to $125
    HSBC Cash Rewards MastercardBest for: Online purchases.$0Up to $100
    TD Cash Back Visa Infinite CardBest for: TD cash-back rewards.$139Up to $350
    BMO CashBack Business MastercardBest for: Businesses.$0Up to $150
    Neo CardBest for: Shell customers.$0$25
    SimplyCash Card from American ExpressBest for: Cash back on everyday purchases.$0Up to $100
    CIBC Dividend Visa Infinite CardBest for: Cash back on gas.$120N/A
    MBNA Smart Cash World MastercardBest for: Low annual fee.$39Up to $3,000
    BMO CashBack Mastercard for StudentsBest for: Students.$0Up to $125

    How cash-back credit cards work in Canada

    By Barry Choi and Clay Jarvis

    Before deciding which cash-back credit card is right for you, it’s helpful to understand how the cash-back redemption process works, the many categories cash-back rewards can fall into, and how cash-back cards compare to other types of credit cards.

    What is a cash-back credit card?

    Cash-back credit cards are pretty straightforward: you use them as you would any other credit card, and in exchange for making eligible purchases, you get a certain percentage of what you’ve spent back in cash.

    Advantages and Disadvantages of a cash-back credit card?

    Advantages

    Disadvantages


    Types of cash-back credit cards

    All cash-back credit cards work similarly, but even minor differences are worth noting as they can affect your earn rate.

    Flat-rate

    This type of cash-back credit card earns cash-back at the same rate for all purchases made.

    Bonus rewards categories

    Some cash-back credit cards offer an increased earn rate for rewards on select spending categories, such as groceries and restaurants.

    Flexible bonus cash-back cards

    Some cards allow you to choose the spending categories to earn your bonus rewards. By selecting categories that align with the types of items you buy frequently, you can maximize your cash-back rewards.


    How to earn cash-back

    You’ll need to make purchases to earn cash-back rewards with a credit card. For example, let’s say you have a card that offers 2% cash back on groceries. If tomorrow’s weekly run to the supermarket winds up costing you $100 and you pay with your card, you’ll earn $2 in cash-back rewards.

    Cash-back rewards will accumulate as you continue using your cash-back credit card. The running total of how much cash you’ve earned should be easy to find on your monthly statement or via your online account.

    Make sure to stay within your credit limit, keep your account in good standing, and look closely at your cash-back credit card’s details to find out how much you can earn on your purchases. Earn rates can vary based on time, such as when an introductory offer provides a higher rate of rewards and what kinds of products you purchase.


    How to redeem cash-back

    Once you have accumulated enough cash-back rewards, you can redeem them for statement credits, bank deposits, gift cards, or other rewards. Make sure to understand the redemption options and requirements of your card. Some may require you to meet a minimum threshold of cash-back rewards before redemption. If you don’t have enough points available, you’ll have to sit on them until you do.

    Redemption requirements by issuers

    Every credit card provider has different rules when it comes to redeeming your cash back. Some allow monthly redemption, while others pay out annually. Other providers allow redemption only after you’ve hit a certain threshold. The following are the payout requirements for the major cash-back credit card issuers:

    » MORE: Read our in-depth TD Cash Back Visa Infinite Review

    When is a good time to redeem my cash-back rewards?

    Many cash-back credit cards will allow you to redeem your rewards as soon as they reach a minimum threshold. But you can also save them up over time and cash them in for a more significant, single-shot pay-down of your credit card balance, for example.

    Choosing to redeem cash rewards on a regular basis is certainly satisfying. But it could mean dipping below your minimum threshold. The next time you want — or need — to use your rewards, you may not have enough at your disposal. Saving your cash back rewards to generate more impact — to ease the blow of a particularly big purchase — is a worthy strategy, too. But know that if you fail to keep your account in good standing or decide to close it suddenly, you could lose out on accumulated rewards.


    cash-back bonus rewards categories

    Cash-back bonus rewards categories refer to the specific spending categories or types of purchases that earn higher cash-back rewards on a credit card.

    For example, let’s say your credit card gives you 4% cash back on gas. If the card has a flat rate of 1%, this means you’ll earn cash back on gas with a bonus rate of 3%, making it so all your gas purchases would give you 4% cash back. Since many gas stations sell other things, such as snacks and gift cards, you’d also earn 4% cash back on any of those items.

    Generally speaking, Canada’s best cash-back credit cards offer multiple bonus categories. Getting a cash-back card that aligns with your spending patterns can be pretty lucrative. For example, if you spend a lot on groceries, getting a cash-back credit card with an increased earn rate on groceries can significantly benefit you.

    You’ll earn cash back at an increased rate when making purchases in specific spending categories, but you’ll still earn the base earn rate when you make purchases that don’t fall under a bonus category or after you have reached the bonus category cash-back limit. The base earn rate differs for each cash-back credit card but typically ranges between 0.5% and 2%.

    Common rewards categories

    Cash-back categories can vary depending on the credit card and issuer, but here are some common categories in Canada:

    The key thing to understand is that each credit card defines its categories differently and employs its own merchant category codes. For example, some cards may group gas and transportation. Some cards lump groceries and restaurants into a “food and drink” category. To further complicate things, some merchants don’t fall into the categories you would think they would. For example, Costco is not considered a grocery store. As far as credit card processors are concerned, Costco is a wholesale store.

    Credit card companies do not typically reveal all of the stores associated with a merchant category publicly. Still, you should be able to contact your credit card provider’s customer service to ask about a specific store. Overall, it’s pretty easy to figure out what category your purchases will fall under, but you may need some trial and error.


    How to choose a cash-back card

    Before applying for a cash-back credit card, select the right one for you and ensure you’re eligible.

    Compare cash-back credit card options

    With dozens of cash-back credit cards available, comparing them all can be time-consuming. That said, there are a few things you should look at when considering any cash-back card.

    Make sure you qualify

    Even though the benefits of a cash-back credit card are relatively simple to understand, you’ll still have to reckon with a few eligibility requirements to consider before applying.


    How to maximize your cash-back rewards

    There are plenty of tricks to help you get the most out of your cash-back credit cards. The more tips you adopt, the more cash back you’ll earn. That said, it’s best only to follow the advice that you’re comfortable with.


    Should I choose cash-back or rewards points?

    Answering this question depends on what you’re looking to get out of your credit card.

    Are cash-back credit cards worth it?

    There are two situations where a cash-back card might not be the right choice:

    1. If you’ll pay more in annual fees than you’d earn in cash-back.
    2. If you can get a better return with a points-based rewards card. For example, let’s say you got a travel rewards credit card and did the same spending. Would the points you earn be worth more than the cash back you could potentially earn? If so, it makes more sense to get a travel credit card.

    FAQs for Canada’s cash-back credit cards

    Are there cash back limits?

    Most cash-back credit cards have limits on the cash back you can earn. Look at your card’s terms and conditions for rates and limits. Most cash-back credit cards set the limit per category, but they may also lump some categories together. Additionally, the limit would factor in any purchases made by supplementary users on the account.

    Some cards give you unlimited cash back, even on bonus categories. That means you would get the full earn rate, regardless of how many purchases you put on your card. Shopping around and reviewing the terms and conditions of cards you’re interested in, will help you pick the right card.

    Is cash back from credit cards taxable income?

    Cash-back rewards are considered a rebate/discount by the Canada Revenue Agency, so you won’t be taxed. Cash back is really no different from a coupon, which is obviously not taxable.

    That said, if you earn cash as part of your employment, it may be taxable. For example, let’s say you have a company cash-back credit card. Your employer allows you to deposit the cash back earned directly into your bank account. In this case, the cash back would be taxable since it’s a form of income.

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