American Express Blue Cash – How to apply

By Raquel Oliveira • 03/20/2025

American Express Blue Cash Enjoy 3% cashback on fuel and selected transportation expenses.

This credit card is designed to provide a range of financial benefits, offering cashback on everyday purchases while ensuring flexibility for users who want a convenient and rewarding way to manage their spending.

It comes in two versions: Blue Cash Preferred and Blue Cash Everyday. Each offers distinct cashback rates and perks, allowing applicants to choose the option that best suits their financial goals and spending habits.

With global acceptance at millions of merchants, this card is a reliable choice for those seeking both stability and exclusive rewards, whether for routine expenses or travel-related purchases.

In this article, we’ll break down its features, benefits, potential drawbacks, fee structure, and the application process, helping you decide if it aligns with your financial needs.

How does Amex Blue work?

This credit card operates on a cashback system, meaning it does not accumulate points for redemption. Instead, a percentage of the amount spent is returned as a direct credit to the user’s account.

There are two main versions available: Blue Cash Preferred, which provides higher cashback rates on select categories, and Blue Cash Everyday, which offers moderate cashback with no annual fee for budget-conscious users.

The cashback categories include essential spending such as supermarkets, transportation, and gas stations. However, Blue Cash Preferred has expanded cashback options, including streaming services and transit expenses.

Additionally, users benefit from travel-related insurance, such as rental car coverage and purchase protection. The digital account platform also enhances financial management, providing real-time spending tracking and additional credit opportunities.

Main Benefits of the American Express Blue Cash

• High Cashback on Groceries: Earn 6% cashback on supermarket purchases, making it an excellent choice for those who frequently spend on household essentials.
• Cashback on Gas and Transit: Enjoy 3% cashback on fuel and selected transportation expenses, including public transit, ride-sharing, and parking.
• Exclusive Streaming Rewards: The Blue Cash Preferred version includes 6% cashback on streaming services, allowing users to save on subscriptions like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu.
• Entertainment and Travel Perks: Get access to Amex Offers, Disney package credits, Home Chef subscriptions, and event perks such as priority access to entertainment experiences.

Cons of Amex Blue

Although its benefits are quite attractive, the Amex card has some disadvantages that must be considered.

• Annual fee of $95: In a relatively high annual fee compared to other cashback options. While the benefits may justify the cost for some users, those who don’t spend much in the cashback categories may find it difficult to offset this fee.
• Cashback limitation in supermarkets: 6% cashback at US supermarkets is limited to $6,000 per year in purchases, which equates to a maximum return of $360. After reaching this limit, the cashback drops to just 1%, which reduces the advantage of the benefit on higher expenses.
• Foreign transaction fee: There is a foreign transaction fee of 2,7%, which makes it a less attractive option for international travel. For those who travel frequently, a card with no fees for purchases abroad may be more suitable.

APR and Fees

Understanding the fee structure is crucial when applying for a credit card. Below are the key details about this card fees and APR rates:

• Annual Fee Structure: Blue Cash Preferred has a $95 annual fee, while Blue Cash Everyday does not charge an annual fee, making it ideal for cost-conscious users.
• Purchase APR Range: Variable APR between 19.24% and 29.99%, depending on the applicant’s creditworthiness and financial history.
• Balance Transfer APR: The same range applies to balance transfers, making it essential to evaluate whether transferring debt aligns with your repayment strategy.
• Cash Advance Rates: A higher APR of up to 30.99% applies to cash withdrawals, which should be considered before using the card for such transactions.

How to Apply for the American Express Blue Cash

Applying for this credit card is a simple process, accessible online through the official American Express website or via the digital account platform.

• Visit the Official Website: Navigate to the American Express portal and locate the credit card application section to review details and select the preferred version.
• Complete the Application Form: Enter your personal and financial details, ensuring all required information is accurate to facilitate a smooth approval process.
• Credit Evaluation Process: American Express will assess your credit score and financial history to determine eligibility, approving applicants with good to excellent credit.
• Card Delivery and Activation: Upon approval, the physical card will be shipped to the registered address. Once received, activate the card to begin using it immediately.

Who Should Apply for the American Express Blue Cash?

This credit card is ideal for individuals seeking a high cashback return on essential spending, particularly in categories such as groceries, gas, and streaming services.

It is a great choice for frequent shoppers at supermarkets, as the Blue Cash Preferred version offers 6% cashback, making it one of the most rewarding grocery credit cards available.

Additionally, it suits entertainment lovers and frequent travelers who want perks like Amex Offers, event access, and travel-related purchase protection, enhancing their overall experience.

However, those with diverse spending habits or who prefer a broad cashback structure might find it less beneficial, as rewards are category-restricted and do not apply to all purchases.

Final Considerations

This credit card is a powerful tool for earning cashback, offering some of the highest rates on groceries and streaming services while ensuring security and convenience.

However, the category-based cashback limits and the Blue Cash Preferred annual fee should be carefully considered, especially for users who do not maximize the spending categories to their advantage.

Overall, this credit card provides an excellent balance of rewards and financial flexibility, making it a valuable option for those who frequently spend on essential purchases and entertainment.