No Annual Fee Credit Cards
Access credit and rewards without paying a yearly cost to hold the card.
No-annual-fee cards: long-term anchors that preserve account age.
Who these cards fit
Cardholders who want long-term, low-commitment cards to preserve account age.
Overview
No-annual-fee credit cards can be kept open indefinitely at no ongoing cost, which is why they are frequently used as long-term anchor accounts to preserve credit age — one of the factors credit-scoring models consider. Reward rates on no-fee cards are typically more modest than premium cards, but flat-rate cash back, category cards, and starter travel cards without fees can still deliver meaningful annual value. Because there is no fee to justify, the primary criteria are the rewards structure, the intro APR terms (if any), and any built-in protections offered on the card network.
How to choose
- Prioritize rewards that match your top spending categories, since there is no fee to offset.
- Look for an intro 0% APR window if you have a planned large purchase or existing balance.
- Check whether the card offers network-level benefits (Visa Signature, World Elite Mastercard).
- Consider network acceptance if you travel internationally.
Cards in this Category
Citi Double Cash
Cardholders who want a simple, high flat-rate cash back card with no annual fee.
Good to excellent credit (typically 670+)
Wells Fargo Active Cash
Cardholders who want a straightforward flat-rate cash back card with a strong 0% intro APR window.
Good to excellent credit (typically 670+)
Discover it Secured
Applicants building or rebuilding credit who also want to earn cash back.
No credit or limited/damaged credit
American Express Blue Cash Everyday Card
Everyday spenders who want category cash back with no annual fee.
Good to excellent credit (typically 670+)
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I close a no-annual-fee card I no longer use?
Generally no. Because there is no cost to keep the card open, leaving it open preserves your account age and available credit, both of which support your credit score. Occasional small charges paid in full keep the account active.