Easy approval credit card with cashback and no annual fee
An easy approval credit card with cashback and no annual fee gives you real money back, fast approval, and transparent terms that help you save consistently.
Choose an option:
Top pick: The best easy approval credit card combines cashback, no annual fee, and quick approval—ideal for everyday spending and long-term financial growth.
Cashback: real value every time you spend
Cashback cards have become one of the most popular credit card categories. Unlike reward systems that require conversion charts or travel portals, cashback gives you a simple percentage back on every purchase.
The most competitive cards offer between 1% and 5%, depending on the category and structure.
Flat-rate cashback is predictable and easy to manage.
Rotating categories, on the other hand, offer higher returns for users who plan purchases strategically. No matter your style, cashback ensures you receive tangible value for everyday spending.
Fast approval: start using your card sooner
Today’s financial institutions understand the need for speed. Many cards now offer near-instant approval when applying online.
If your profile aligns with the issuer’s criteria, you may receive a decision within minutes and begin using a digital card immediately.
Fast approval doesn’t guarantee acceptance for everyone, but for many consumers, it significantly reduces waiting time and enables faster access to credit for emergencies, travel, or everyday purchases.
No annual fee: keep the money you earn
Annual fees can significantly reduce the value of rewards—especially for users who prefer simple cash returns. A $0 annual fee ensures that every dollar you earn remains yours.
Many leading cashback cards now offer high returns without charging a maintenance fee, making them ideal for long-term use and helping you maintain a stronger credit history.
Top easy approval credit cards with cashback and no annual fee
Discover it® Cash Back 5% categories
The Discover it® Cash Back card is frequently recommended as one of the best options for those seeking an easy approval credit card with cashback and no annual fee.
It offers quarterly 5% categories such as groceries, gas, and dining, along with 1% on all other purchases.
- 5% cashback on quarterly categories (activation required).
- 1% unlimited cashback on other purchases.
- Cashback Match® doubles first-year earnings automatically.
- $0 annual fee and strong approval rates for new users.
Discover’s combination of category bonuses and Cashback Match® makes it one of the best first-year cashback cards available.
“Discover approved me quickly, and the first-year match doubled my rewards effortlessly.” — Daniel G., Texas
Who Should Get It?
- Users seeking high cashback potential with rotating bonuses.
- Beginners looking for easy approval and no annual fee.
- Anyone wanting significant first-year value.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card 2% everywhere
The Active Cash® Card offers unlimited 2% cashback on every purchase and is known for its straightforward approval process.
There are no rotating categories, caps, or redemption complications—just consistent rewards.
- 2% unlimited cashback on every purchase.
- No annual fee.
- Fast online approval for many applicants.
- Easy redemption as statement credit or direct deposit.
This card stands out for simplicity, predictability, and strong value for everyday spenders.
“I was approved instantly and now use Active Cash for nearly everything—2% back adds up fast.” — William S., Florida
Who Should Get It?
- Users who prefer hassle-free, constant cashback.
- People who want fast approval without strict requirements.
- Anyone wanting a primary everyday credit card with no annual fee.
Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa® Build credit
The Petal® 2 card is designed for users with limited or no credit history. Instead of relying solely on credit scores, Petal uses cash-flow analysis to evaluate applicants, improving approval chances for beginners while offering up to 1.5% cashback.
- 1% cashback initially, increasing to 1.5% with on-time payments.
- No annual fee, no late fees, and no foreign transaction fees.
- Modern app with budgeting tools and spending insights.
- Higher approval flexibility compared to traditional cards.
This is one of the best cards for building credit responsibly while still earning cashback.
“Petal approved me when other banks didn’t, and the cashback is a bonus.” — Sofia L., California
Who Should Get It?
- New credit users or rebuilders.
- Anyone wanting transparency and no fees.
- People who want fast approval without strict credit requirements.
Chase Freedom Unlimited® Mixed rewards
While technically a hybrid rewards card, Chase Freedom Unlimited® provides strong cashback rates and is well-known for its approval flexibility. It works well for users who want a mix of easy earnings and travel-ready points.
- 3% cashback on dining and drugstores.
- 1.5% cashback on all other purchases.
- No annual fee.
- Fast decisions for many applicants.
Freedom Unlimited delivers a balanced structure: part cashback, part travel value, and strong everyday returns.
“The approval was quick, and the 3% categories give consistent value.” — Michelle R., Georgia
Who Should Get It?
- Users who want a balanced card for multiple categories.
- People who want fast approval from a major bank.
- Anyone seeking cashback but also flexible point options.
How to maximize cashback and approval chances
- Use your card for everyday essentials like groceries and fuel.
- Activate quarterly categories on rotating cards.
- Pay your balance in full every month.
- Redeem cashback regularly for consistent savings.
- Keep credit utilization below 30%.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Carrying a balance that cancels out cashback earnings.
- Applying for multiple cards simultaneously.
- Missing due dates, harming your credit score.
- Ignoring category activation deadlines.
Comparison: Top easy approval credit cards
| Card | Main Benefit | Annual Fee | Cashback | Approval Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Discover it® Cash Back | High 5% categories | $0 | 1%–5% | Fast |
| Wells Fargo Active Cash® | Flat 2% cashback | $0 | 2% | Instant for many |
| Petal® 2 Visa® | Build credit, no fees | $0 | 1%–1.5% | High flexibility |
| Chase Freedom Unlimited® | Mixed categories + perks | $0 | 1.5%–3% | Quick |
FAQ
What is the easiest credit card to get approved for?
Cards like Petal® 2 and Discover it® are known for higher approval flexibility, especially for users with limited credit history.
Do easy approval cards still offer good rewards?
Yes. Many offer strong cashback, especially Wells Fargo Active Cash® and Discover it® Cash Back.
Can I build credit with an easy approval credit card?
Absolutely. Consistent on-time payments and low utilization help increase your credit score.
Are there hidden fees?
Top cards on this list have no annual fees and transparent terms.
Will cashback expire?
For most issuers, cashback does not expire as long as your account remains open.
The Bottom Line
The best easy approval credit card with cashback and no annual fee gives you straightforward value, low cost, and strong approval odds.
Whether you want high cashback categories, flat daily rewards, or a beginner-friendly card with no fees, today’s options make it easier than ever to save money and build credit responsibly.
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