by Katerina Nikolas

Created on: September 16, 2011   Last Updated: September 19, 2011

Those looking for an excellent rewards card will find the Blue Cash Everyday from American Express is one of the best available deals. It offers an excellent rewards program in addition to a range of benefits from Amex, and without the need to pay an annual fee. Additional cards are also available fee free. The only drawback is the card is limited to those with excellent credit.

To fully maximize the advantages of cash back rewards cards it pays to never carry a balance. American Express facilitates card holders using the Blue Cash Everyday to pay monthly bills automatically and thus reap extra cash back. All everyday spending earns 1% cash back but this rises to two per for gas station and department store purchases, and a generous 3% at supermarkets. This makes it the ideal card to cover all everyday spending.

Rewards points can be redeemed when the dollar balance reaches $25, and can be taken as cash, gift cards or merchandise. Additionally cardholders can earn bonus rewards of $25 by recommending friends and family who go on to be approved for a card.

Blue Cash Everyday offers 0% APR for 12 months on purchases, before reverting to the current APR of 17.24%, 20.24% or 22.24%, dependent upon credit. The same variable rates apply to balance transfers taken within the first 30 days of opening an account.

The balance transfer fee is $5, or 3%, whichever is greater, and the same fees apply to cash advances which carry an APR of 25.24%. If a penalty rate is applied it will be 27.24% levied after one or more late payments or a returned payment. The foreign transaction fee is 2.7%.

Cardholders may utilize a range of benefits offered by American Express without the necessity of paying a card fee. There is the Blue Savings Program for discounts, and the Amex Travel Service for competitive rates. Cardholders can also access the Amex Ticket Savings Center and the Global Assistance Hotline that can be used when the cardholder is more than 100 miles from home.

Blue Cash also offers some insurance benefits. There is 90 day purchase protection on damaged or stolen goods, and extended warranties. For car hire the card provides insurance cover for loss and damage. Travel accident insurance is applicable for accidental death or dismemberment when traveling by bus, train, plane or ship, providing the full fare has been paid for using the Blue Cash card.

Providing the monthly balance is paid in full making the APR irrelevant, this really is an excellent choice of card for everyday use due to the generous cash back rewards program. Also, it allows the cardholder to enjoy the benefits of American Express without paying the fee usually associated with Amex.

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