The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a cash back credit card designed for people who spend heavily on groceries, streaming services, gas, and transit. It offers some of the highest cash back rates in the industry on everyday categories — making it ideal for families or commuters looking to maximize rewards on routine expenses.
What Is the Blue Cash Preferred® Card?
This card offers up to 6% cash back on essential spending categories, including U.S. supermarkets and select U.S. streaming services. Although it charges an annual fee, the elevated rewards can easily offset the cost for households with moderate-to-high monthly grocery and streaming bills.
Key Features and Benefits
Welcome Offer
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 6 months.
Cash Back Earning Structure
- 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%)
- 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions (including Netflix, Spotify, Hulu, Disney+, etc.)
- 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis, rideshare, buses, parking, tolls, and trains)
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars, which can be redeemed as statement credits.
Intro APR Offer
- 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months
- Then, a variable APR applies (typically 19.24%–29.99%)
Built-In Amex Protections
- Purchase Protection and Extended Warranty
- Return Protection on eligible items
- Car Rental Loss & Damage Insurance (secondary)
- Access to Amex Offers and exclusive entertainment presales
Digital Wallet Compatibility
- Works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay
- Real-time alerts and card lock features through the Amex app
Fees and Requirements
- Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, then $95
- Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% (not ideal for international use)
- Credit Needed: Good to Excellent (typically 690+ FICO)
How to Apply
- Visit americanexpress.com and search for the Blue Cash Preferred® Card
- Review the welcome offer and terms
- Complete the secure application online with your personal and financial details
- Receive an instant decision in most cases
- Once approved, start earning rewards immediately
Conclusion: Is the Blue Cash Preferred® Worth It?
Yes — if you spend consistently on groceries and streaming. With up to 6% cash back on high-frequency categories and a modest annual fee (waived the first year), this card offers:
- Exceptional value for families, commuters, and media subscribers
- A rare 6% return at supermarkets and streaming
- Reliable cash back you can apply directly to your statement
If your monthly grocery bill is $500 or more, this card quickly pays for itself — and then some. For many households, the Blue Cash Preferred® is the go-to choice for maximizing everyday rewards.
