Cash Back Calculator
Calculate how much cash back you earn on purchases by spending category and reward rate.
Formula
Cash back = Σ (spend × rate); Net = annual cash back − annual fee
- Monthly cash back sums rewards across all spending categories.
- Annual fee is subtracted from annual rewards for net benefit.
- Compare multiple cards to find the best match for your spending pattern.
Typical household spend
Inputs
- Monthly Groceries: 500 $
- Grocery Reward Rate: 3 %
- Monthly Gas/Transit: 150 $
- Gas Reward Rate: 2 %
- Monthly Dining: 200 $
- Dining Reward Rate: 4 %
- Other Monthly Spend: 300 $
- Base Rate (other): 1 %
- Annual Card Fee: 95 $
Monthly = 500×3%+150×2%+200×4%+300×1% = $26/month = $312/yr. Net = $312−$95 = $217/yr.
Frequently asked questions
Is a high annual fee worth it?
If your cash back rewards exceed the fee, yes. Cards with $95 fees often require $5,000+ in annual spend to break even.
What is the best cash back card?
It depends on your spending — grocery-focused spenders benefit from 3–6% grocery cards; travelers may prefer points.
Can I get more than 5% cash back?
Some rotating-category cards offer 5% on certain categories for a quarter, but typically have caps and require activation.
Does cash back expire?
Most cash back does not expire as long as the account is open, but check your card's terms.