You might be using an unsupported or outdated browser. To get the best possible experience please use the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge to view this website.
We independently select all products and services. If you click through links we provide, we may earn a commission. Learn More.
Advertiser Disclosure

Best Credit Card Promotions And Special Offers Of 2025

Updated: Apr 2, 2025, 10:44am
Dylan Pearl
Dylan Pearl
Dylan PearlFormer Credit Cards Editor
Over a decade of editorial experience across a number of publications and more than 60 countries visited have given Dylan Pearl a wealth of travel knowledge, and the tools to effectively communicate that knowledge to others. Dylan has made it his mis...
Read Full BioSee Full Bio
Written By
Dylan Pearl
Dylan Pearl
Dylan PearlFormer Credit Cards Editor
Over a decade of editorial experience across a number of publications and more than 60 countries visited have given Dylan Pearl a wealth of travel knowledge, and the tools to effectively communicate that knowledge to others. Dylan has made it his mis...
Read Full BioSee Full Bio
Former Credit Cards Editor
Caroline Lupini
Caroline Lupini
Fact Checked by
Caroline LupiniManaging Editor, Credit Cards & Travel Rewards
Caroline Lupini has been traveling the world with the help of credit card rewards since 2011. She has visited over 110 countries and is able to utilize her knowledge of credit cards and to make travel both less expensive and more luxurious. Caroline...
Read Full BioSee Full Bio
Fact Checked
Caroline Lupini
Caroline Lupini
Fact Checked by
Caroline LupiniManaging Editor, Credit Cards & Travel Rewards
Caroline Lupini has been traveling the world with the help of credit card rewards since 2011. She has visited over 110 countries and is able to utilize her knowledge of credit cards and to make travel both less expensive and more luxurious. Caroline...
Read Full BioSee Full Bio
Managing Editor, Credit Cards & Travel Rewards
& 1 other
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

There are many appealing card offers on the market for a variety of needs. So if you’re thinking about getting a new credit card, a rich welcome bonus can sometimes be the deciding factor. But most of the time, the size of a particular card’s welcome offer will wane and wax, allowing an issuer to spotlight a particularly lucrative offer. Here are some of the best promotional and special offers we’ve found that are currently available and some tips on how to find your own.

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

Our credit card editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Advertisers do not and cannot influence our ratings. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and companies, so all are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the credit card methodology for the ratings below.

  • Unbiased editorial team
  • No AI writing
  • 400+ credit cards rated
  • 65 years of industry experience
Read more
Show Summary
Find The Best Credit Card

Here's a Summary of the Best Limited-Time Offers

CREDIT CARD OUR Rating & DETAILS
U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card *
3.9

Welcome Bonus

20,000 points

Credit Score

Good/Excellent

Annual Fee

$0

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card
Apply Now Apply Now
On Bank of America's Website
2.6

Welcome Bonus

60,000 Bonus Miles + 30% Flight Discount Code

Credit Score

Good, Excellent

Annual Fee

$95

Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard®
Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard® *
2.4

Welcome Bonus

50,000 bonus miles + 60 XP

Credit Score

Good/Excellent

Annual Fee

$89

Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard®
Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard® *
2.4

Welcome Bonus

80,000 award miles

Credit Score

Good/Excellent

Annual Fee

$89

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
Apply Now Apply Now
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
Rates & Fees
5.0

Welcome Bonus

Earn up to 200,000 bonus points

Credit Score

Good, Excellent

Annual Fee

$99

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® *
3.4

Welcome Bonus

70,000 bonus miles

Credit Score

Excellent, Good

Annual Fee

$595

Credit Card
U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card *
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card
Apply Now Apply Now
On Bank of America's Website
Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard®
Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard® *
Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard®
Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard® *
IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
Rates & Fees
IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
Apply Now Apply Now
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® *
Credit Card
Our Rating
Annual Fee
Credit Score
Welcome Bonus
Learn More
U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card *
3.9
$0
Good/Excellent
20,000 points
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card
2.6
$95
Good, Excellent
60,000 Bonus Miles + 30% Flight Discount Code
Apply Now Apply Now
On Bank of America's Website
Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard®
Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard® *
2.4
$89
Good/Excellent
50,000 bonus miles + 60 XP
Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard®
Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard® *
2.4
$89
Good/Excellent
80,000 award miles
IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
Rates & Fees
IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
5.0
$99
Good, Excellent
Earn up to 200,000 bonus points
Apply Now Apply Now
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® *
3.4
$595
Excellent, Good
70,000 bonus miles
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of account opening
Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of account opening
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Receive a 30% flight discount code for a qualifying future flight after opening your new account. Additionally, earn 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after making $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
Receive a 30% flight discount code for a qualifying future flight after opening your new account. Additionally, earn 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after making $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you make $2,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening, plus, get 60 XP upon approval.
Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you make $2,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening, plus, get 60 XP upon approval.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Earn 80,000 award miles after spending $3,000 in purchases and pay the annual fee, both within the first 90 days of account opening
Earn 80,000 award miles after spending $3,000 in purchases and pay the annual fee, both within the first 90 days of account opening
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Our Best Points Offer Ever! Earn up to 200,000 Bonus Points. Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 60,000 Bonus Points after spending a total of $9,000 in the first 6 months from account opening.
Our Best Points Offer Ever! Earn up to 200,000 Bonus Points. Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 60,000 Bonus Points after spending a total of $9,000 in the first 6 months from account opening.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Earn 70,000 AAdvantage bonus miles after spending $7,000 in the first 3 months of account opening
Earn 70,000 AAdvantage bonus miles after spending $7,000 in the first 3 months of account opening
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Best for Fuel

U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card *

U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
3.9
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Up to 5X Reward Rate

Earn 5X points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center; Earn 4X points onRead More

Welcome Bonus

20,000 points

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

17.24% - 28.24% (Variable)

Credit Score

Good/Excellent (750 - 850)

Our Expert Take

With top-notch earning on gas and travel, the US Bank Connect Visa Signature’s rewards will add up quickly.

Pros & Cons
  • No annual fee
  • Elevated earnings on common everyday expenses
  • Limited lounge access
  • Statement credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fees once every four years
  • Real-Time Rewards feature makes redemption simple
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Must have a U.S. bank account to maximize cash-back rate
  • Bonus earning on gas and EV stations is capped
  • Travel must be booked through U.S. Bank’s Altitude Rewards Center to earn the highest rate
Card Details
  • Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of account opening
  • Earn 5 points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked in the Altitude Rewards Center
  • Earn 4 points per dollar on travel and at gas and EV charging stations on the first $1,000 spent each quarter
  • Earn 2 points per dollar on streaming services
  • Earn 2 points at grocery stores and dining (excluding discount stores, supercenters and wholesale clubs) and 1 point on all other eligible purchases
  • Statement credits for reimbursement toward TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry® application fee once every four years
  • Complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership
Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of account opening
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Alaska Mileage Plan Miles

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

Apply Now Apply Now
On Bank of America's Website
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card
Click Here To Apply Now
2.6
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Apply Now Apply Now
On Bank of America's Website

Up to 3X Reward Rate

Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases, 2 miles for every $1 spent onRead More

Welcome Bonus

60,000 Bonus Miles + 30% Flight Discount Code

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

20.24% - 28.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit Score

Good, Excellent (700 - 749)

Our Expert Take

For West Coast frequent fliers, the Alaska Airlines card is worth a serious look. You’ll snag the prized annual Companion Fare when you spend $6,000 in the prior anniversary year, plus a free checked bag, Visa Signature benefits and other perks, which easily offset the annual fee.

Pros & Cons
  • Redeem miles for flights with over 30 airline global partners
  • Free checked bag on Alaska Airlines
  • Annual Companion fare (earned with $6,000 or more in spending the prior anniversary year)
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Limited flight options on the East Coast and in the Midwest
  • Companion ticket is limited to Alaska Airlines flights
Card Details
  • LIMITED TIME ONLINE OFFER—60,000 Bonus Miles + a 30% Flight Discount Code!
  • Receive a 30% flight discount code for a qualifying future flight after opening your new account. Additionally, earn 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after making $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
  • Get Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
  • Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don’t expire on active accounts.
  • Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
  • Free checked bag and enjoy priority boarding for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation, when you pay for your flight with your card — Also available for authorized users when they book a reservation too!
  • With oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
  • Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
  • This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Receive a 30% flight discount code for a qualifying future flight after opening your new account. Additionally, earn 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after making $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Flying Blue benefits

Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard® *

Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard®
2.4
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Up to 3X Reward Rate

Earn 3 miles per $1 spent on Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and SkyTeam member airlines purchases; 1.5 milesRead More

Welcome Bonus

50,000 bonus miles + 60 XP

Annual Fee

$89

Regular APR

20.24% - 28.24% variable

Credit Score

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

Our Expert Take

While many airline credit cards only offer one mile per dollar spent on general purchases, the Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard® lets you earn 50% more. As part of the SkyTeam Alliance, points can be redeemed for flights on an impressive set of partner airlines. One downside is the lack of flight benefits with cardmembership — those come by earning XP points and gaining Elite status.

Pros & Cons
  • Redeem points for travel on Air France, KLM and other SkyTeam partners
  • Generous base earning rate
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • High regular APR
  • The Flying Blue program often charges a lot of miles for award flights
  • No flight perks included with card
Card Details
  • Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you make $2,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening. Plus, get 60 XP upon approval!
  • Earn 3 miles per $1 spent on Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and SkyTeam member airlines purchases and 1.5 miles per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Earn 5,000 miles every year on your account anniversary after spending $50 on purchases within the anniversary year
Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you make $2,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening, plus, get 60 XP upon approval.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Earnings Miles & More Miles

Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard® *

Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard®
2.4
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Up to 2X Reward Rate

Earn 2 award miles per dollar spent on ticket purchases directly from Miles & More integrated airline partners; Earn 1Read More

Welcome Bonus

80,000 award miles

Annual Fee

$89

Regular APR

20.49% - 29.99% variable APR

Credit Score

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

Our Expert Take

The rewards you’ll earn can get you award flights on dozens of airlines, and the annual fee is on the low side for cards of this tier—especially considering the lounge passes and annual companion certificate benefits. It’s a niche card, but if you’re in it, there’s a lot of potential value.

Pros & Cons
  • Companion Ticket after each account anniversary (taxes and fees apply)
  • Convert miles to qualifying points towards status once per calendar year
  • Annual fee waived for Senator and HON Circle members
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Earns just 2 miles per dollar on Miles & More integrated airline partners
  • Annual fee of $89
Card Details
  • Earn 80,000 award miles after spending $3,000 in purchases and pay the annual fee, both within the first 90 days of account opening
  • Earn 2 miles per dollar on ticket purchases directly from Miles & More integrated airline partners
  • Earn 1 mile per dollar on other purchases
  • $89 annual fee
  • Receive two complimentary lounge vouchers after each account anniversary
Earn 80,000 award miles after spending $3,000 in purchases and pay the annual fee, both within the first 90 days of account opening
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best IHG Bonus

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card

Apply Now Apply Now
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
Click Here To Apply Now
Rates & Fees 
5.0
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Apply Now Apply Now
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

Up to 26X Reward Rate

Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at an IHG hotel; 5 points per $1Read More

Welcome Bonus

Earn up to 200,000 bonus points

Annual Fee

$99

Regular APR

19.99% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Score

Good, Excellent (700 - 749)

Our Expert Take

With a generous welcome bonus, an anniversary night awarded upon renewal and the fourth night free on award bookings, the IHG One Rewards Premier Business card offers a myriad of ways to be rewarded.

Expert Commentary
Anya Kartashova
Anya Kartashova
Anya Kartashova
Credit Cards Writer
Anya is a freelance credit cards writer and adventurer based in Salt Lake City. She has written about award travel, rewards credit cards and personal finance extensively for NerdWallet, 10xTravel and Fodor’s. She firmly believes that no one should pay full price for the opportunity to see the world, which is why her goal is to travel by reaping the benefits of rewards credit cards and to help others do the same.
Anya Kartashova
Anya Kartashova
Anya Kartashova
Credit Cards Writer
Anya is a freelance credit cards writer and adventurer based in Salt Lake City. She has written about award travel, rewards credit cards and personal finance extensively for NerdWallet, 10xTravel and Fodor’s. She firmly believes that no one should pay full price for the opportunity to see the world, which is why her goal is to travel by reaping the benefits of rewards credit cards and to help others do the same.
Credit Cards Writer

The anniversary free night that comes with the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Card makes this card a keeper year after year. The key is to use it for a hotel room that costs more than $99 per year, which isn’t hard to do. The certificate can be exchanged for a free night worth up to 40,000 IHG One Rewards points. However, if the room rate is higher, it’s possible to top it off with points from your IHG account.

Pros & Cons
  • Get a free anniversary night certificate
  • Redeem three award nights, get the fourth night free
  • Includes Platinum Elite status
  • IHG One Rewards are worth less than a penny a point on most redemptions
  • The $50 United Travel Bank credit can be complicated to maximize
Card Details
  • Our Best Points Offer Ever! Earn up to 200,000 Bonus Points. Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 60,000 Bonus Points after spending a total of $9,000 in the first 6 months from account opening.
  • Enjoy an Anniversary Free Night at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Plus, enjoy a fourth reward night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG® hotel stay.
  • Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels and Resorts
  • Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, select advertising, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier Business cardmember
  • Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $120 every 4 years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card
  • IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at hotels such as InterContinental®, Crowne Plaza®, Kimpton®, EVEN® Hotels, Indigo® Hotels & Holiday Inn®
  • Member FDIC
Our Best Points Offer Ever! Earn up to 200,000 Bonus Points. Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 60,000 Bonus Points after spending a total of $9,000 in the first 6 months from account opening.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best American Airlines Bonus

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® *

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
3.4
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Up to 10X Reward Rate

Earn 10 AAdvantage miles for every $1 spent on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through aa.com; 4 miles forRead More

Welcome Bonus

70,000 bonus miles

Annual Fee

$595

Regular APR

20.24% – 29.24% (Variable)

Credit Score

Excellent, Good (700 - 749)

Our Expert Take

For the AA frequent flier who will use the complimentary Admirals Club lounge access, this alone more than offsets the annual fee. Considering that all authorized cardholders are eligible, this can be an incredible value. Extra perks such as VIP check-in, priority boarding, concierge service, and free checked bag sweeten the deal.

Pros & Cons
  • Free checked bag on domestic American Airlines flights for up to eight companions on the same reservation
  • Discounted Admiral Club membership
  • High annual fee with no first-year waiver
  • Lackluster rewards rates
  • Requires excellent credit
Card Details
  • Earn 70,000 AAdvantage bonus miles after spending $7,000 in the first 3 months of account opening
  • Earn 10 miles per dollar spent on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through aa.com, 4 miles for every dollar spent on eligible American Airlines purchases and 1 mile for all other purchases
  • Admirals Club Membership: Access to nearly 100 lounge locations worldwide for you and your immediate family (or up to 2 traveling guests that accompany you)
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee credit up to $100 every 4 years
Earn 70,000 AAdvantage bonus miles after spending $7,000 in the first 3 months of account opening
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Credit Card Promotions and Limited Time Offers

U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card *

[ jump to details ]

Welcome bonus: 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening

Rewards: 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center, 4 points per dollar on travel and at gas and EV charging stations on the first $1,000 each quarter, 2 points per dollar at grocery stores, dining and streaming services (excluding discount stores, supercenters and wholesale clubs) and 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases

Annual fee: $0

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

[ jump to details ]

Welcome bonus: 60,000 bonus miles and Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $3,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of account opening, plus receive a 30% flight discount code for a qualifying future flight after account opening

Rewards: unlimited 3 miles per dollar on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases, unlimited 2 miles per dollar on eligible gas, EV charging, cable, streaming services and local transit including ride share purchases and unlimited 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases

Annual fee: $95

Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard® *

[ jump to details ]

Welcome bonus: 50,000 bonus miles after spending $2,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening, plus, get 60 XP upon approval

Rewards: 3 miles per dollar spent on Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and SkyTeam member airlines purchases and 1.5 miles per dollar spent on all other purchases

Annual fee: $89

Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard® *

[ jump to details ]

Welcome bonus: 80,000 award miles after spending $3,000 in purchases and paying the annual fee, both within the first 90 days

Rewards: 2 award miles per dollar spent on ticket purchases directly from Miles & More integrated airline partners and 1 mile per dollar spent on all other purchases

Annual fee: $89

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card

[ jump to details ]

Welcome bonus: 140,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus 60,000 bonus points after spending a total of $9,000 in the first six months from account opening

Rewards: up to 26 total points per dollar at IHG® Hotels and Resorts, 5 points per dollar on travel, dining, select business, and at gas stations and 3 points per dollar on all other purchases

Annual fee: $99

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® *

[ jump to details ]

Welcome bonus: 70,000 bonus miles after spending $7,000 in purchases in the first 3 months of account opening

Rewards: 10 AAdvantage miles per dollar spent on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through aa.com, 4 miles per dollar spent on eligible American Airlines purchases and 1 mile per dollar spent on all other purchases

Annual fee: $595

Methodology

Forbes Advisor considers cards that have recently increased welcome offers for the best credit card promotions and limited time offers.

Read more: How Forbes Advisor Rates Credit Cards

What Is a Credit Card Welcome Bonus?

A credit card welcome bonus is an incentive issuers offer to entice new customers to apply for new credit cards. Often, welcome bonuses come in the form of points or cash back after meeting a certain spending threshold in a limited amount of time.

Like with many financial products, it’s important to be mindful of the fine print and eligibility requirements before applying for a credit card. If you want to take advantage of welcome bonus offers, you should understand the type of welcome bonus you will receive, what you need to do to earn the bonus and the eligibility requirements all before applying.

Are There Any Restrictions on Welcome Bonuses?

Yes, offers typically have eligibility criteria. Each issuer establishes its own rules and regulations regarding welcome offers. Notably, nearly all issuers will restrict the number of welcome bonuses you can qualify for within a certain time period.

Chase, for example, reportedly has a 5/24 rule. You are not likely to see approval for a new card if you’ve signed up for five or more cards within the past 24 months. American Express also has a once in a lifetime rule, where you can earn the welcome bonus on one of its cards once and once only, even if you close the card and then apply for it again several years later. Moves like these are intended to stop credit card churners from taking advantage of lucrative offers for new cardholders.

What Counts as an Eligible Purchase Toward a Welcome Bonus?

The rules for each card and each issuer may vary, but eligible purchases will typically include most goods and services with some exceptions. Generally, cash equivalents like money orders, cash advances, some gift cards, travelers checks, prepaid cards and peer-to-peer payments won’t count. Returning items after you’ve bought them can also make you ineligible for a welcome bonus.

How To Take Advantage of Credit Card Promotions and Offers

While there are many reasons to use a credit card when making a purchase, the lucrative promotions and special offers are what make getting a new credit card worthwhile for many.

While playing the credit cards game can certainly involve complex analysis and careful tracking of rewards, bonuses, spending and various accounts, taking advantage of a single credit card offer now and then doesn’t require a spreadsheet full of macros.

Pro Tip
If there is a card that you know you’d like to apply for, but do not need immediately, check in periodically before applying. Issuers often raise or lower the bonus amounts in order to push specific products. When you see an increased offer, that is a good time to apply.

Pick the Right Credit Card(s)

You can only apply for so many cards at once before having too many credit inquiries will make you look less like a great borrower and more like someone desperate to extend credit, so choose carefully. If you’re looking for a great deal, find a card with a nice welcome bonus that’ll also reward your spending in the long run. A great option works in the immediate future and for the foreseeable one. Excellent extra benefits that you’ll actually use are great, too.

Use More Than One Credit Card

A collection of carefully-selected credit cards will likely return you more rewards if you’re also mindful about how and when you use the cards. Different credit card reward programs incentivize different spending. With a collection of cards you can earn elevated rewards on gas with one card and yield high cash back on dining with another and so on such that nearly everything you can use a credit card for will earn extra rewards.

Multiple credit cards can also mean multiple welcome bonuses and extra benefits. A card with an auto collision damage waiver benefit may save you much more when renting a car than a card without insurance that has a high earn on rental cars if someone damages your vehicle.

This does not mean, however, that you should apply for all of the cards you want at once. You should leave some time between applications for your credit to recover from each hard inquiry.

Pay Your Balance in Full Every Month

If you pay interest rates on your balance, you will more than likely wipe out the value of any rewards you’ve earned on purchases—and quickly. Credit card interest rates are some of the highest rates you’ll find when borrowing money, but credit cards typically offer grace periods to allow you to pay the balance off before it accrues interest. Pay your balance in full each month by the due date so your reward earnings aren’t eviscerated by finance charges.

Some credit card agreements include stipulations to allow for the cancellation of rewards when customers are late on payments. Be careful to ensure you don’t forfeit unredeemed earnings in their entirety the moment you’re late on a payment.

Redeem Your Rewards Regularly

While your money can work for you if you keep it in the bank, your rewards won’t. The value of points does not improve with inflation and not only do you not actually own your points, miles or cash back—miles can be devalued by the issuer at any time. For these reasons, it’s best practice to use your rewards if you have them.

Some cards offer auto-redemption features which trigger a redemption when you attain a certain reward threshold. Turning on this feature is a great idea where it makes sense. Otherwise, regularly converting your rewards to cash or redeeming them for flights, hotels or other value is a great way to maximize the value you can earn.

Apply for a New Credit Card With a Large Sign Up Bonus

If you can meet the requirements, sign up bonuses are a great way to achieve more reward value. You will most likely need to spend a certain amount during a specified time period to qualify, but if you were going to spend the money anyway, why not earn some additional rewards?

While this is a good way to make the occasional few hundred dollars, it is important not to overdo it. If you open too many new credit cards without allowing for the time for your credit score to recover from the hard inquiry, it could hurt your credit score in the long term.

You also shouldn’t spend money you don’t need to spend or don’t have. Credit card bonuses may be a tempting reason to spend more, but spending beyond your means is a quick way to end up with a large bill for interest charges that’ll quickly eat away at any reward you may earn with a bonus.

Find The Best Credit Cards For 2025

No single credit card is the best option for every family, every purchase or every budget. We've picked the best credit cards in a way designed to be the most helpful to the widest variety of readers.

Learn More

How Can You Spend Enough To Earn a Credit Card Bonus?

The spending requirements for a welcome bonus may seem easy enough to hit, but be careful not to rush into anything. Have a plan for how you’ll achieve the spending required without carrying a balance.

If you think about a credit card bonus every time you realize you have to spend a lot of money instead of thinking about spending a lot of money every time you think about credit card bonuses, you’ll probably be better off.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I know if I have credit card bonus offers?

The best way to check if your credit card has a bonus offer is to look up the card online or read any fine print with an offer sent to you in the mail. These offers are used as a way to attract applicants, so they are clearly advertised. Because credit card bonus periods usually only last for a limited time following approval, it’s important to pay close attention to eligibility requirements before applying and ensure the offer is something you’ll qualify for.

How do I opt out of credit card offers?

To opt out of prescreened offers and stop receiving so much junk mail, you can call 888-5-OPTOUT (888-567-8688) or submit a request online at OptOutPrescreen.com. To opt out you will need to share personal information like your name, social security number and your date of birth.

By calling the number or using the website link above, you can opt out of the prescreened offers for five years. To permanently opt-out, you will need to request, fill out and mail in a form. The form can also be found at OptOutPrescreen.com.

By opting out, you will most likely receive fewer calls, emails and letters, but you may miss out on targeted offers not available to the general public.

How do I get preapproved credit card offers?

The Fair Credit Reporting Act permits credit bureaus such as Experian, TransUnion and Equifax to provide issuers of credit cards lists of people who meet specific cards credit requirements for pre-qualification. The issuers use this information to send preapproved or prescreened offers to potential customers.

By maintaining the proper credit requirements, you may find yourself receiving preapproval or prescreened offers from credit card issuers. You can also visit most major credit card issuers’ respective websites and fill out a form to provide identifying information to request pre-qualification offers.

Preapproval and pre-selection do not guarantee approval for any credit card offer.

How do I see my credit card promotions?

To view promotions for your credit card, you can use several methods:

• Online banking portal or mobile app. Log in to your account through the credit card issuer’s website or mobile app. Most issuers have a section dedicated to current promotions and offers.

• Monthly statements. Review your credit card statements, either paper or digital. Issuers often include information about current or upcoming promotions.

• Emails from your card issuer. Check your email for messages from your credit card company. Ensure promotional emails aren’t landing in your spam or junk folder.

• Contact customer service. Call the customer service number on the back of your credit card. Representatives can inform you about any active or upcoming promotions.

• Card issuer’s website or promotions page. Visit the card issuer’s official website and look for a promotions or offers page.

• Mobile banking notifications. If you use a mobile banking app, enable push notifications for updates on promotions.

• Direct mail. Some promotions are sent via postal mail. Check any physical mail you receive from your card issuer.

• Social media and newsletters. Follow your card issuer on social media and subscribe to their newsletters for updates on promotions.

Remember, promotions can vary based on the type of credit card you have and your spending habits. It’s also important to read the terms and conditions of each promotion to understand how to qualify and benefit from them.

How do I get credit card offers in the mail?

To receive credit card offers in the mail:

• Opt-in for offers. Visit OptOutPrescreen.com or call 1-888-567-8688 to opt-in for credit and insurance offers.

• Update information with credit bureaus. Ensure your details are current with credit bureaus like Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax.

• Improve your credit score. A higher credit score increases your chances of receiving offers.

• Set preferences with your bank. Indicate your willingness to receive promotional materials in your banking preferences.

• Subscribe to newsletters. Sign up for newsletters from credit card companies and banks.

• Respond to online prompts. Indicate interest when prompted in online banking or financial services.

Be aware that it might take some time for offers to start arriving after you’ve taken these steps.

What is a promotional balance transfer offer on a credit card?

Some credit cards offer a promotional APR on purchases or balance transfers either instead of or in addition to a welcome bonus. Typically, you’ll have 12 to 21 months where you won’t pay interest on new purchases or eligible balance transfers.

Other Credit Cards To Be Considered

*The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor: U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card, Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard®, Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard®, Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Information provided on Forbes Advisor is for educational purposes only. Your financial situation is unique and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer financial advice, advisory or brokerage services, nor do we recommend or advise individuals or to buy or sell particular stocks or securities. Performance information may have changed since the time of publication. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Forbes Advisor adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by our partners.
Dylan Pearl
Dylan Pearl
Former Credit Cards Editor

Over a decade of editorial experience across a number of publications and more than 60 countries visited have given Dylan Pearl a wealth of travel knowledge, and the tools to effectively communicate that knowledge to others. Dylan has made it his mission to see as much of the world as possible, and strives to give everyone the tools to get out and do the same with simple, actionable information.

The Forbes Advisor editorial team is independent and objective. To help support our reporting work, and to continue our ability to provide this content for free to our readers, we receive compensation from the companies that advertise on the Forbes Advisor site. This compensation comes from two main sources. First, we provide paid placements to advertisers to present their offers. The compensation we receive for those placements affects how and where advertisers’ offers appear on the site. This site does not include all companies or products available within the market. Second, we also include links to advertisers’ offers in some of our articles; these “affiliate links” may generate income for our site when you click on them. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Forbes Advisor. While we work hard to provide accurate and up to date information that we think you will find relevant, Forbes Advisor does not and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete and makes no representations or warranties in connection thereto, nor to the accuracy or applicability thereof. Here is a list of our partners who offer products that we have affiliate links for.
lorem
Are you sure you want to rest your choices?