Wells Fargo Active Cash Review (2025): Benefits, Rewards & Value
A straightforward 2% cash rewards card with no annual fee and no category restrictions.
Wells Fargo Active Cash Guide
A straightforward 2% cash rewards card with no annual fee and no category restrictions.
ANNUAL FEE
$0
WELCOME BONUS
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in first 3 months
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 Wells Fargo Active Cash Worth It?
Ideal For:
- Flat-Rate Rewards
- Simplicity
- No Annual Fee
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 Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
- Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
- No annual fee
With no annual fee to offset, all these benefits provide positive value from day one.
How to Earn Points
2% on Everything
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases with no category restrictions, spending caps, or quarterly activations required.
Use for Non-Bonus Spending
Use the Active Cash for purchases that don't earn bonus rewards on your other cards to ensure you're always earning at least 2% back.
Paired with Autograph Card
Combine with the Wells Fargo Autograph Card for 3x points in its bonus categories while using Active Cash for everything else.
Paired with Bilt Card
Use Active Cash for non-bonus spending while using Bilt for rent, dining, and travel to maximize rewards across both cards.
Sweet Spot Redemptions
| Route/Redemption | Points Required | Transfer Partner | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Statement Credits | Direct redemption | Cash back | Redeem cash rewards as statement credits with a minimum redemption of $1 when redeeming through the mobile app or online. |
| Direct Deposit | Direct redemption | Bank account | Cash out rewards via direct deposit to a Wells Fargo checking or savings account with a minimum redemption of $1. |
| ATM Withdrawals | Direct redemption | Cash | Withdraw cash rewards in $20 increments from Wells Fargo ATMs using your Wells Fargo debit card. |
| Gift Cards | Direct redemption | Wells Fargo Rewards | Redeem for gift cards through the Wells Fargo Rewards portal with minimums varying by merchant. |
Advanced Tips & Tricks
Pro Insider Tips
Cell Phone Protection
Pay your monthly cell phone bill with your Active Cash Card to receive up to $600 of protection against damage or theft (subject to a $25 deductible).
Tap to Pay
Use the contactless payment feature for faster, more secure transactions while still earning your 2% cash rewards.
Visa Signature Benefits
Take advantage of Visa Signature benefits including extended warranty protection, travel and emergency assistance services, and access to the Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection.
Digital Wallet Integration
Add your card to Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay to earn 2% cash rewards on mobile payments while enhancing security.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the cell phone protection benefit work?
When you pay your monthly cell phone bill with your Active Cash Card, you'll receive up to $600 of protection against damage or theft of your cell phone (subject to a $25 deductible). This coverage is limited to the primary phone number and up to one additional line listed on your wireless bill. The benefit is limited to two claims per 12-month period.
What's the difference between the Active Cash Card and the Citi Double Cash?
Both cards offer essentially 2% cash back, but there are some differences: The Active Cash gives you the full 2% when you make purchases, while the Double Cash gives 1% when you buy and 1% when you pay. The Active Cash typically offers a welcome bonus, while the Double Cash often doesn't. The Active Cash includes cell phone protection when you pay your bill with the card, while the Double Cash doesn't offer this benefit. The Active Cash has no foreign transaction fees, while the Double Cash charges 3%.
Is there a minimum redemption amount?
Yes, there are minimum redemption amounts that vary by redemption method. When redeeming for statement credits or direct deposits through the mobile app or online banking, the minimum is $1. For ATM withdrawals, you must redeem in $20 increments using a Wells Fargo debit card. Gift card redemptions typically start at $25, depending on the merchant.
Does the 2% cash rewards apply to all purchases?
The Active Cash Card earns unlimited 2% cash rewards on virtually all purchases. However, certain transactions may not be eligible for rewards, including: money orders, prepaid cards, casino gaming chips, wire transfers, lottery tickets, ATM withdrawals, balance transfers, cash advances, or any illegal transactions. Regular purchases, including most bills, groceries, gas, and online shopping, do qualify for the 2% cash rewards.
Ready to Apply?
The Wells Fargo Active Cash offers outstanding cash back rewards that make it a valuable addition to your wallet. A straightforward 2% cash rewards card with no annual fee and no category restrictions.