U.S. Bank Cash+ Review (2025): Benefits, Rewards & Value
A highly customizable cash back card with unique 5% categories like utilities and home improvement stores.
U.S. Bank Cash+ Guide
A highly customizable cash back card with unique 5% categories like utilities and home improvement stores.
ANNUAL FEE
$0
WELCOME BONUS
$200 cash back after spending $1,000 in first 120 days
POINTS VALUE
1¢ per point
TRANSFER PARTNERS
0
In This Guide:
Transfer Partners
| Transfer Partner | Transfer Ratio | Transfer Time | Transfer Bonuses |
|---|
Annual Credits & Benefits
Is the U.S. Bank Cash+ Worth It?
Ideal For:
- Category Customization
- Utility Bills
- Home Improvement
Not Ideal For:
- Frequent international travelers (due to foreign transaction fees on most cash back cards)
- Those seeking premium travel benefits like lounge access
- People who prefer transferable points for flexible redemptions
Value Calculation Example
With no annual fee, this card provides pure positive value through:
- Welcome bonus worth approximately $200
- Ongoing rewards with 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter in two categories you choose, 2% on one everyday category (gas stations, grocery stores, or restaurants), 1% on all other purchases
- 5% cash back in two categories of your choice
- 5% categories include utilities, home improvement stores, and streaming services
With no annual fee to offset, all these benefits provide positive value from day one.
How to Earn Points
5% on Two Categories (up to $2,000)
Earn 5% cash back on up to $2,000 in combined purchases each quarter in two categories you choose from the following options: TV/internet/streaming services, utilities, home utilities, cell phone providers, department stores, electronics stores, sporting goods stores, furniture stores, movie theaters, gyms/fitness centers, fast food, ground transportation, and select clothing stores.
2% on One Everyday Category
Earn 2% cash back on one everyday category you choose each quarter: grocery stores/grocery delivery, restaurants, or gas stations/EV charging stations.
1% on Everything Else
Earn 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases with no spending caps.
Quarterly Category Selection
Choose new 5% and 2% categories each quarter or keep the same selections for consistent rewards.
Sweet Spot Redemptions
| Route/Redemption | Points Required | Transfer Partner | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Statement Credits | Direct redemption | Cash back | Redeem cash back as statement credits with a minimum redemption of $1. |
| Direct Deposit | Direct redemption | Bank account | Cash out rewards via direct deposit to a U.S. Bank checking or savings account with a minimum redemption of $1. |
| U.S. Bank Rewards Card | Direct redemption | U.S. Bank | Redeem cash back as a U.S. Bank Rewards Card (prepaid Visa) with a minimum redemption of $5. |
| Real-Time Rewards | Direct redemption | Cash back | Use cash back to offset purchases in real-time by responding to text messages (enrollment required). |
Advanced Tips & Tricks
Pro Insider Tips
Select Categories Strategically
Choose 5% categories based on your highest consistent expenses that aren't better rewarded by other cards, such as utilities or cell phone providers.
Set Calendar Reminders
Set quarterly reminders to select your categories before the deadline, as categories default to 1% if not chosen in time.
Track Category Spending
Monitor your progress toward the $2,000 quarterly cap on 5% categories to ensure you maximize rewards without exceeding the limit.
Pair with Other Cards
Combine with other cash back cards that offer strong rewards in categories not covered by the Cash+, such as a flat-rate 2% card for non-bonus spending.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are all the available 5% categories?
The 5% categories currently available for selection include: TV, internet, and streaming services; home utilities; cell phone providers; department stores; electronics stores; sporting goods stores; furniture stores; movie theaters; gyms and fitness centers; fast food; ground transportation; and select clothing stores. The list occasionally changes, so it's best to check your account for the most current options.
When do I need to select my categories?
You must select your 5% and 2% categories before the start of each quarter. The selection window typically opens 30-45 days before the quarter begins and closes 5 days before the end of the first month of the quarter. If you don't make a selection, your purchases will earn the base rate of 1% cash back until you choose your categories.
What counts as 'utilities' for the 5% category?
The utilities category includes electricity, gas, water, and waste management service providers. It does not include government-imposed utility fees, home warranty services, or security system services. The home utilities category is separate and includes trash/recycling, water/sewer services, and home/property heating such as fuel oil, waste removal, and propane.
Can I change my categories mid-quarter?
No, once you've selected your categories for the quarter, you cannot change them until the selection window opens for the next quarter. This makes it important to choose categories carefully based on your anticipated spending for the upcoming three months.
Ready to Apply?
The U.S. Bank Cash+ offers outstanding cash back rewards that make it a valuable addition to your wallet. A highly customizable cash back card with unique 5% categories like utilities and home improvement stores.