2025’s Best Credit Cards for Rewards and How to Apply

The world of credit cards continues to evolve, with 2025 introducing some of the best options for earning rewards while managing your finances effectively. Whether you’re looking for cashback, travel perks, or exclusive shopping discounts, the right credit card can transform your spending habits and help you achieve your financial goals. These highlight the top credit cards for rewards in 2025 and provide a step-by-step process for applying.

Why Choose a Rewards/ CashBack Credit Card?

Credit cards are no longer just tools for managing expenses—they’re gateways to incredible benefits. The right rewards credit card can provide immense value, from cashback on daily purchases to air miles for frequent travelers. Choosing the right card tailored to your spending habits is crucial to maximizing these benefits.

Apply and Get Flat Rs.500 Cashback on EaseMyDeal App

Top Credit Cards for Rewards/ Cashback in 2025

1. Cashback Credit Cards

Cashback credit cards offer the simplest way to earn rewards by giving back a percentage of your spending. Ideal for daily expenses like groceries, fuel, and utility bills, these cards can save you money without any extra effort.

Features:
Earn cashback on every purchase.
Bonus categories for Shopping, groceries, fuel, and dining.
Higher cashback rates during promotional periods.

Top Picks for 2025:
SBI CashBack Credit Card: Offers FLAT 5% cashback on online transactions & purchases.
HDFC Millennia Credit Card: Earns 5% cashback on Amazon, BookMyShow, Cult.fit, Flipkart, Myntra, Sony LIV, Swiggy, Tata CLiQ, Uber, and Zomato,  and Flat 1% on all other spends (except Fuel, Wallet, EMI, and Govt transactions).

Best For: Budget-conscious individuals and families who want tangible savings on recurring expenses.

2. Travel Rewards Credit Cards

For those bitten by the travel bug, these credit cards are a game changer. They offer benefits like free air miles, lounge access, and discounts on hotel stays.

Features:
Accumulate air miles for every purchase.
Complimentary lounge access at airports.
Exclusive discounts on flight and hotel bookings.

Recommended Cards for Frequent Travelers:
Axis Atlas Credit Card: Earn up to 2x miles on international travel and enjoy free travel insurance.
Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card: Complimentary airport lounge access and hotel booking discounts of up to 20%.

Best For: Frequent flyers and individuals who want luxurious travel experiences.

3. Shopping and Lifestyle Credit Cards

Shopping enthusiasts can benefit immensely from cards designed for retail therapy and online purchases. Many of these cards offer exclusive partnerships with e-commerce platforms and retail outlets.

Features:
Discounts on top retail brands and shopping websites.
Reward points that can be redeemed for vouchers and merchandise.
Flexible EMI options for large purchases.

Top Picks for 2025:
SimplySAVE SBI Card: Lifestyle Luxe Card: Maximum savings on everyday purchases with up to 10x reward points on spending at department stores, groceries, movies, dining, and more.
HDFC Bank Moneyback Card: Redeem reward points as cash back against your outstanding amount. 100 points = ? 20. Minimum redeemable amount is? 500, Milestone perk - Spend? 50,000 in a quarter and get an e-gift voucher worth? 500

Best For: Individuals who frequently shop online or in retail outlets.

4. Premium Credit Cards

Premium cards cater to high-income individuals looking for luxury and exclusivity. These cards often come with high annual fees but offer unparalleled rewards.

Features:
Personalized concierge services.
High reward rates and exclusive deals.
Luxury travel perks like private airport transfers.

Top Picks for 2025:
HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Card: Complimentary annual memberships - Club Marriott, MakeMyTrip, Double Black, Zomato Gold, Amazon Prime, Forbes & Times Prime
SBI Card ELITE: Free movie tickets worth? 6,000 every year, the lowest forex markup of 1.99% on international spends. Complimentary domestic lounge visits via Visa/Mastercard.

Best For: High-spending individuals who value luxury perks.

5. Zero Annual Fee Reward Cards

If you’re looking for savings without worrying about maintenance fees, zero-annual fee cards are a great option.

Features:
No annual charges.
Basic rewards and benefits without extra cost.

Popular Cards:
HSBC Visa Platinum Card: Earn? 150 = 2 points with no annual fees.
IndusInd Bank Platinum Card: All category spends: ?150 = 1.5 points

Best For: Individuals seeking value without additional costs.

How to Choose the Right Credit Card for Rewards

With so many options available, selecting the right card can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help:

Understand Your Spending Habits: Identify where you spend the most—travel, groceries, shopping, or dining—and choose a card that aligns with those categories.
Compare Interest Rates and Fees: Check the annual percentage rate (APR) and additional fees like foreign transaction charges to ensure the card is cost-effective.
Evaluate Reward Categories: Choose a card offering rewards in categories that match your lifestyle. For instance, frequent travelers should prioritize air miles, while families might prefer cashback on groceries.

How to Apply for a Credit Card Online?

The application process for credit cards has become more streamlined than ever, thanks to online banking and fintech apps. Here’s how to get started:

1. Apply Online

Visit the official website of the bank or EaseMyDeal offering the card.
Fill out the application form with your details, including name, address, and income.
Submit required documents like ID proof, income statements, and address proof.

2. Check Eligibility Criteria

Credit card issuers typically have specific requirements:

Age: Most issuers require applicants to be at least 18 years old.
Income: A stable monthly income is essential.
Credit Score: A score above 700 improves your chances of approval.

3. Tips to Increase Approval Chances

Improve Your Credit Score: Pay off existing debts and maintain a low credit utilization ratio.
Choose a Suitable Card: Opt for cards that match your income and credit score to avoid rejection.
Limit Applications: Too many applications in a short period can negatively affect your credit score.

4. Instant Approval Cards

Many banks now offer instant approval cards for individuals with good credit scores. These cards are processed within minutes and can often be used digitally before the physical card arrives.