Best Credit Cards - Gas Credit Cards

If you do a lot of traveling by car, you might appreciate the credit cards that offers reward for the many dollars you spend at the gas pump. As credit card companies recognize the convenience of paying at the pump, as well as the fact that many travelers in a tough economy choose to drive instead of fly, some top credit cards are offering gas rewards of 3 percent or more.

Finding the best gas rewards credit cards

There are numerous reward credit cards that offer cash back on gas purchases, but when it comes to the actual reward balance at the end of the month, your mileage can vary depending on the card. Here are seven things to review before you make a decision on a fuel rewards credit card:

1. Interest rate. A high interest rate can trump the rewards you might get back from that gas purchase. The lower the interest rate, the more money you will save. Not sure which card is best? Subtract the rebate rate from the interest rate to get a better idea of which card offers the best value.
2. Minimums required. Some gas cards offer great rewards, but you have to meet a certain spending threshold each month in order to qualify. If your spending falls short, you don't get the rewards.
3. Brand limitations. Gas reward cards are sometimes affiliated with a certain gas station or brand of gasoline. Consider the prices in your area carefully before applying for a card that requires you to visit a certain station. If the prices at that station are always a bit more expensive than another station down the road, your gas reward savings might only mean you break even--or at worst, you can lose money by going with the more expensive brand.
4. Other rewards. A good rewards card can offer more than just cash back on gas. Does it offer a percentage back on other purchases as well, such as groceries or clothing? The best gas credit cards often have other advantages that can help you rack up the rebates.
5. Annual fees. Unfortunately, reward cards often come with strings attached. In many cases, that might be a high annual fee. However, some of the best gas rewards credit cards come with no annual fee; it pays to take your time and seek them out.
6. Redemption protocol. What do you have to do to get the rewards? Sometimes credit card companies make it easy and deposit rewards into your account as soon as you accumulate the minimum amount. But others require you to call customer service, go to an online account, or otherwise jump through hoops to get the money you have earned.
7. Other special offers. Many of the best gas rewards cards offer more than just rebates on fuel. Look for no-fee balance transfers, a good introductory APR and other perks that can sweeten the deal.

Choosing the best gas rewards credit cards

A gas rewards credit card can be a great choice if you fill up your tank frequently. And for those who commute long distances to work, run lengthy errands or take road trips, the gas rewards card is a nice way to recoup some of the money spent on those trips. However, if you stick closer to home and burn less fuel, your rewards card might not deliver the lofty savings you were expecting.

As with all credit cards, always remember to read the fine print. Annual fees, late payments, balance transfer fees and high interest rates can negate the savings you might see from a gas rebate. Take the time to compare rates, fees and perks from gas reward cards, then narrow it down to a few that seem most promising. Since applying for credit can affect your credit rating, make sure you apply only for the cards that best fit your needs.