With the right rewards credit card, you can turn every gas station stop into an opportunity to save or earn points. Whether you’re fueling up for your daily commute or getting ready for a road trip, a credit card that rewards your gas purchases may help offset some fuel costs over time.
Let’s explore practical tips for using your credit card at the pump.
Use the right credit card
Some rewards credit cards help you get more out of every trip to the pump by offering cash back, miles, points, discounts or other benefits. Each card has unique features, so it’s worth exploring your options to select the best card for you.
Here are 3 cards that can be great for gas station spending.
- Shell Fuel Rewards® Credit Card
This card can help you save money on fuel at participating Shell locations and earn rebates on other eligible purchases. This card can be a great choice if you regularly fuel up at Shell stations. - Citi Custom Cash® Credit Card
With the Custom Cash, you automatically earn 5% cash back on your top eligible spending category, which can include gas purchases. You’ll earn 5% cash back on your highest eligible spending category up to $500 spent each billing cycle and 1% cash back on all other purchases. - Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
If you’re a Costco member, you can use this credit card to earn cash back on gas purchases at Costco gas stations and other eligible locations. Plus, this card lets you earn cash back in other categories, such as dining, travel and Costco purchases.
Know your card’s terms
Before using your credit card at the gas station, it’s important to understand the card’s terms and rewards program. Here are a few key factors to keep in mind.
Different credit cards let you earn more points, cash back or miles in various categories. Some credit cards let you earn points on every purchase, while others only let you earn in specific categories, like restaurants or travel. Ensure you know which purchase categories qualify.
Certain rewards credit cards offer rewards for purchases in rotating categories that change throughout the year, so you may want to periodically check the categories.
Understand caps on rewards
Rewards credit cards may have limits on how much you can earn in specific categories, so it’s important to be aware of these caps when spending.
Reward caps
Many rewards credit cards have limits for how much you can earn at the highest rate. For example, a card might offer 5% cash back on gas purchases, but only up to $500 per month.
Once you hit the cap, you may earn a lower percentage on certain purchases. For example, after you get 5% cash back on the first $500 of gas purchases in one month, the rate may drop to 2% cash back on gas purchases.
If you’re getting close to the cap, you may consider using another card with a better rate for the remaining purchases.
Convenience is key
When selecting a credit card for gas, think about your daily driving habits and where you typically stop for fuel. If there’s a Shell station on your usual route, getting a Shell Fuel Rewards® Credit Card can be a useful choice to help you save every time you fill up.
However, if you have to go out of your way to access a specific station, the extra time and gas costs might outweigh the benefits. Consider what is most convenient and can fit easily into your routine.
Disclosure: This article is for educational purposes. It is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and is not a substitute for professional advice. It does not indicate the availability of any Citi product or service. For advice about your specific circumstances, you should consult a qualified professional.
