Cash back without an annual fee
A high advertised rate is not the same as a high return on your spending. Category limits, recurring-payment requirements and redemption conditions can matter more than the headline.
By WealthGeist ยท Calculation methodology, not an issuer endorsement.
What to check
- Compare ongoing value, not only a welcome offer.
- Check whether higher rates require a linked account, service or selected category.
- Use the reward breakdown to see which purchases receive the base rate.
A worked comparison
Illustrative annual spending: $12,000 at grocery stores, $6,000 dining and $12,000 other purchases. Balance paid in full. No welcome offers, benefit credits or service relationships included. Actual merchant coding may differ.
| Card | Rewards | Annual fee | Ongoing value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard | $450 | $0 | $450 |
| Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card | $420 | $0 | $420 |
| Tangerine Money-Back World Mastercard | $420 | $0 | $420 |
| CIBC Costco Mastercard | $420 | $0 | $420 |
| CIBC Costco World Mastercard | $420 | $0 | $420 |
Calculated from the verified catalog at build time. This example does not establish the best card for you. See assumptions and methodology.
Sources and corrections
Each linked card page lists its issuer source and verification date. Unsupported or stale terms are excluded from calculations. Read how calculations and corrections are reviewed.