American Express Blue Cash – How to Apply
Looking for simple, rewarding cash back? The American Express Blue Cash could be ideal.
With generous rewards on everyday purchases, especially in categories like groceries and gas, this card offers practical advantages for anyone looking to earn money back on common expenses.
It also provides a 0% introductory APR for an extended period, making it appealing for those planning large purchases or balance transfers.
American Express Blue Cash
0% intro APR for 15 months Cashback categories have some limitsHow does the American Express Blue Cash work?
The American Express Blue Cash targets consumers with good credit who want a reliable, rewarding card for everyday use.
It helps users save with a tiered cash-back structure, offering top rewards on common spending like groceries, gas, and streaming.
There are two versions: Blue Cash Everyday® and Blue Cash Preferred®. Both share core benefits, but the Preferred offers higher rewards in exchange for an annual fee, while the Everyday skips the fee and still delivers solid value.
With the Blue Cash Preferred, cardholders earn:
- 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000/year, then 1%)
- 6% back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
- 3% back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (taxis, rideshares, parking, tolls, trains, buses)
- 1% back on all other purchases
Main benefits of American Express Blue Cash
One of the standout features of this card is its robust cash-back program, which doesn’t require rotating categories or special activation. Everything is automatic, and rewards are easy to track through the Amex mobile app or website.
For those who choose the Preferred version, the high return on supermarket and streaming purchases means real savings on household essentials and entertainment.
Even with its annual fee, users can easily offset the cost if they spend regularly in these areas.
Cardholders also enjoy access to Amex Offers, which provides additional cashback or discounts at participating retailers and restaurants, giving more ways to earn without changing your routine.
Furthermore, the card includes purchase protection, car rental loss and damage insurance, and fraud protection. These features offer peace of mind whether you’re shopping online or traveling.
Another important benefit is the introductory 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers, typically lasting for 15 months from the date of account opening.
This gives you time to pay off big purchases or consolidate debt without immediate interest charges.
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Cons of American Express Blue Cash
While the American Express Blue Cash offers strong rewards, there are a few downsides to note.
The Blue Cash Preferred carries a $95 annual fee, which may not be worth it if you don’t spend much on groceries or streaming.
The 6% cash-back rate at supermarkets is capped at $6,000 per year—after that, it drops to 1%, limiting potential for larger households.
Acceptance can also be an issue, as American Express isn’t as widely accepted as Visa or Mastercard, especially with smaller or international merchants.
Finally, this card is best suited for those with good to excellent credit—it’s not ideal for anyone building or rebuilding credit.
APR and Fees
The American Express Blue Cash card features a competitive fee structure, especially given its rewards.
- Intro APR: 0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
- Regular APR: 19.24% to 29.99% variable
- Annual Fee: $0 (Everyday) or $95 (Preferred)
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.7%
- Late Payment Fee: Up to $40
It’s a strong short-term option for large purchases or balance transfers, though avoiding interest means paying off your balance monthly.
How to apply for the American Express Blue Cash
Applying for the American Express Blue Cash is straightforward and can be done entirely online.
Visit the American Express official website and compare both the Everyday and Preferred versions to decide which is right for you. When you’re ready, click on the “Apply Now” button and complete the application form.
To apply, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Provide proof of income and basic personal information
- Have good to excellent credit (usually a score of 670 or higher)
Once submitted, you can often receive a decision within seconds. If approved, your card will be mailed to your address and typically arrives in 7 to 10 business days.
Upon receiving your card, activate it online or by phone and start earning cash back on your daily expenses right away.
