The U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card is a highly customizable cashback credit card designed to maximize rewards based on your spending habits.
Unlike traditional cashback cards that offer fixed rewards, this card allows cardholders to choose their own 5% and 2% categories, providing a unique level of flexibility.
With no annual fee, this card is an excellent option for those who want to earn significant cashback without extra costs.
The ability to select categories that align with your spending ensures that you maximize rewards where you spend the most.
Additionally, as a Visa Signature card, it comes with premium benefits, including travel and purchase protections, making it a solid choice for those who value financial perks.
Reasons to Choose the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card
1. 5% Cashback in Chosen Categories
One of the standout features of this card is its 5% cashback on two categories of your choice, up to $2,000 in combined purchases per quarter.
Popular categories include home utilities, fast food, department stores, and streaming services. This customization allows users to optimize their rewards based on their spending patterns.
2. 2% Cashback on Everyday Purchases
In addition to the customizable 5% categories, cardholders can also select one everyday spending category (such as gas stations, grocery stores, or restaurants) to earn 2% cashback with no spending cap.
This ensures that common purchases still earn additional rewards.
3. Unlimited 1% Cashback on All Other Purchases
All other purchases that don’t fall within the selected 5% or 2% categories earn 1% unlimited cashback, ensuring you always get some level of rewards.
4. No Annual Fee
Unlike many premium cashback cards, the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card has no annual fee, making it a cost-effective way to earn rewards without worrying about yearly costs eating into your savings.
5. Generous Welcome Bonus
New cardholders can often earn a welcome bonus after meeting a spending threshold within the first few months.
This bonus typically provides an excellent initial boost to cashback earnings, making the first year of card membership especially lucrative.
6. Visa Signature Benefits
As a Visa Signature card, it includes travel perks, purchase protection, concierge services, extended warranty benefits, and exclusive dining experiences.
These benefits enhance the overall cardholder experience, making it a great option for frequent travelers.
7. Mobile Wallet Compatibility
This card supports Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay, making contactless payments more convenient and secure.
8. Fraud Protection and Security Features
With zero fraud liability, real-time transaction alerts, and ID theft protection, cardholders can feel secure when using the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card.
Additionally, it offers enhanced online security measures, such as two-factor authentication and fraud monitoring.
9. Flexible Redemption Options
Cashback rewards can be redeemed in multiple ways, including as a statement credit, direct deposit, or even gift cards.
This flexibility allows users to choose the redemption method that best suits their financial needs.
10. 0% Intro APR on Purchases and Balance Transfers
The card often offers an introductory 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12-15 months, which is ideal for those who want to finance large purchases or consolidate existing credit card debt.
Negative Factors of the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card
1. Activation Required for 5% Categories
To receive 5% cashback, you must manually select and activate your categories each quarter. If you forget, purchases will earn only 1% cashback.
2. Spending Cap on 5% Rewards
The 5% cashback is capped at $2,000 per quarter in combined purchases. After reaching this limit, purchases in these categories earn only 1% cashback.
3. Limited 2% Cashback Category Selection
Unlike the 5% categories, which offer multiple options, the 2% category selection is limited to gas stations, grocery stores, or restaurants, which may not align with everyone’s spending habits.
4. Foreign Transaction Fee
A 3% foreign transaction fee applies to purchases made outside the U.S., making it less ideal for international travelers.
5. Not Ideal for Simplicity Seekers
Since cashback categories must be selected and activated each quarter, this card requires active management to maximize rewards.
If you prefer a simple cashback structure, other cards may be a better fit.
What Are the Requirements to Apply for the Card?
To qualify for the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Good to Excellent Credit Score – A minimum credit score of 670 is generally recommended.
- Stable Income – You must have a reliable income source to meet payment obligations.
- U.S. Residency – Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Social Security Number.
- No Recent Negative Credit History – A history of late payments or defaults can negatively impact approval chances.
Fees and Costs
- Annual Fee: $0
- APR for Purchases: 19.74% – 29.74% variable, based on creditworthiness
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% or $5, whichever is greater
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars
- Cash Advance Fee: Either 5% of the amount or $10, whichever is greater
- Penalty Fees: Up to $41 for late payments
- Introductory APR Offers: Often includes 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for a promotional period
Frequently Asked Questions about the Card
1. What are the best 5% categories to choose?
The best 5% categories depend on your spending habits. If you spend a lot on utilities, fast food, or streaming services, these may be optimal choices.
2. Does the card offer travel benefits?
Yes, since it’s a Visa Signature card, it includes travel and purchase protections, such as trip cancellation insurance, roadside assistance, and extended warranties.
3. Can I carry a balance on this card?
Yes, but be aware that the APR can be high, so carrying a balance can reduce the benefits of cashback rewards.
4. How does the category activation work?
Every quarter, cardholders must log in to their U.S. Bank account and select their preferred 5% and 2% categoriesbefore the new quarter begins.
5. Does this card offer cell phone protection?
Yes, cardholders can get cell phone protection when they pay their phone bill with the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card.
Conclusion
The U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card is an excellent choice for those who want flexibility in earning cashback rewards.
Despite the need to actively manage categories each quarter, the high cashback potential, Visa Signature benefits, and no annual fee make it a compelling option.
If you are willing to put in the effort to maximize its rewards, this card can be a valuable addition to your wallet.
