What is a gas credit card?|
A gas credit card is a type of credit card that offers rewards, discounts or other benefits that helps you rack up earnings whenever you fill up your tank. There are multiple types of gas rewards credit cards, but what they all have in common is that they're designed to offer discounts or rewards when you fill up your tank.
~How do gas credit cards work?|
For the most part, gas credit cards work the same as traditional credit cards. The key difference is that gas rewards credit cards offer rewards or discounts on gas purchases. For example, some gas credit cards offer 5 to 10 cents off per gallon of gas at the pump. Others reward you with cash back or points that can be redeemed for things like cash back, gift cards or merchandise.
Also, keep in mind that some gas credit cards issued in partnership with specific gas merchants, such as BP or ExxonMobil, may only allow you to use your card at that company's gas stations. If you have a gas credit card that allows you to shop anywhere, pay close attention to the fine print. For example, gas stations operated by grocery stores, supermarkets, superstores and wholesale clubs may not be eligible.
~What credit score do I need for a gas credit card?|
There are gas credit cards available to consumers across the credit spectrum. However, the higher your score is, the better your odds of getting approved for a card that offers better rewards and perks. For example, to qualify for a premier gas rewards card, you should aim for a good-to-excellent credit score, or a FICO® Score☉ of 670 or higher. If your credit could use improvement, learn about how to build credit faster.
~What are the types of gas credit cards?|
There are two main types of gas credit cards to consider.
- Co-branded gas cards: Also called a "closed-loop gas card," these are credit cards co-branded with a specific gas station, such as Shell or ExxonMobil. They tend to come with a specific discount per gallon of gas, such as 5 cents per gallon.
- General gas rewards cards: These are rewards cards that offer cash back or points for gas purchases, such as 3% back, regardless of which gas station you use.
~What should I look for in a gas credit card?|
Look for a gas credit card that rewards you in the way that works the best for you. If you frequent a certain gas station, selecting a co-branded gas credit card can help you save the most money on gas. If you tend to buy gas at different gas merchants regular, picking a rewards card that offers flexible rewards can help you get more out of your money. Look for a gas rewards card with a competitive cash back rate, such as 3%. To ensure you're getting the best overall value, keep an eye out for fees. The best gas rewards credit cards come with no annual fee, though these cards often come with higher credit requirements.
Also, keep in mind that for the average household, gasoline isn't the largest expense in your budget. To ensure you're earning rewards on a larger pool of spending, consider opting for a rewards card with a generous flat-rate cash back or points structure for spending across multiple categories, such as groceries, gas and dining.
~How much can you save with a gas credit card?|
How much you can save with a gas credit card depends on how much you spend on gas, as well as on the specific benefits of the gas credit card you use. A rewards card that offers 3% to 5% back at the pump can help you save the most on gas. You can also consider a gas credit card that's co-branded with a specific gas company. If your household spends a lot on gas and you tend to frequent one chain, this could help you take advantage of generous discounts and possibly save more overall.
~Is a gas credit card worth it?|
While a gas credit card can offer more value at the pump, it's important to find a credit card that will give you the most value on all of your spending. Compare offers side-by-side to and take all the perks a credit card offers into consideration, including rewards, welcome bonuses and introductory 0% APR promotions. Keep in mind that you can select a rewards credit card that offers flexible cash back and points in multiple spending categories, such as gas and grocery purchases. Or, you can select a rewards credit card with a generous rewards structure on all purchases for more flexible earning potential.
~How to save money on gas|
If you drive a lot for business or personal reasons, a gas credit card can help you make the most of your trips to the pump. In addition to that, here are a handful of ways to save money on gas, particularly when prices are high:
- Use a gas app to find the cheapest gas prices in your area.
- Join fuel rewards programs with individual gas stations.
- Take advantage of fuel rewards programs offered by grocery stores.
- Try carpooling or taking public transportation whenever possible.
- Drive defensively, avoiding rapid acceleration and sudden braking.
- Keep up with your vehicle maintenance schedule.
- Avoid premium gas unless necessary.