wells fargo active cash card review

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is one of the best cashback credit cards available today, offering a straightforward and highly competitive rewards structure.

With unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, no annual fee, and a generous introductory offer, this card is a strong contender for anyone looking to maximize their cashback benefits.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card, including its benefits, drawbacks, fees, and comparisons with other cards in the market.

Key Features of the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card

1. Unlimited 2% Cash Rewards

One of the standout features of the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is its simple and generous cashback structure.

Unlike other cards that require rotating categories or spending caps, this card offers a flat 2% cash rewards on all purchases.

This makes it an excellent option for individuals who prefer a hassle-free rewards system.

2. $200 Welcome Bonus

New cardholders can earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 within the first three months.

This is an excellent incentive, especially for those who can meet the spending requirement without making unnecessary purchases.

3. 0% Intro APR Offer

The card comes with a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, followed by a variable APR of 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99%.

This makes it a solid choice for individuals planning a large purchase or those looking to consolidate existing credit card debt.

4. No Annual Fee

There is no annual fee, meaning you can enjoy all the benefits without worrying about additional costs.

5. Visa Signature Benefits

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is a Visa Signature card, which means cardholders get access to additional perks like:

  • Travel and emergency assistance services
  • Auto rental collision damage waiver
  • Roadside dispatch
  • Concierge services

6. Cell Phone Protection

One unique feature of this card is its cell phone protection.

If you pay your monthly cell phone bill with the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card, you are eligible for up to $600 in protection against damage or theft, subject to a $25 deductible.

7. Contactless Payment and Digital Wallet Compatibility

The card supports contactless payments and is compatible with major digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay, making transactions more convenient and secure.


Pros and Cons of the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card

Pros:

Simple, unlimited 2% cash rewards with no spending caps or rotating categories.
Generous $200 welcome bonus with a low spending requirement.
0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
No annual fee, making it a cost-effective choice.
Cell phone protection up to $600 when paying your phone bill with the card.
Visa Signature benefits for added perks and protections.

Cons:

High regular APR after the intro period, ranging from 20.24% to 29.99%.
No bonus categories for extra cashback in specific spending areas.
Balance transfer fee of 3% (or 5% after 120 days).
No travel-specific rewards like points or miles for frequent travelers.


Comparison with Other Credit Cards

To help determine whether the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is the right choice for you, let’s compare it to other popular cashback credit cards.

Wells Fargo Active Cash vs. Citi® Double Cash Card

Feature Wells Fargo Active Cash Citi Double Cash
Cash Back Rate 2% on all purchases 1% when you buy + 1% when you pay
Welcome Bonus $200 after $500 spend None
Intro APR 0% for 15 months 0% for 18 months
Annual Fee $0 $0
Cell Phone Protection Yes No

Verdict: If you want a simple cashback structure and a welcome bonus, the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is the better choice.

However, if you need a longer 0% APR period, the Citi Double Cash might be a better fit.

Wells Fargo Active Cash vs. Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Feature Wells Fargo Active Cash Chase Freedom Unlimited
Cash Back Rate 2% on all purchases 1.5% on all purchases + bonus categories
Welcome Bonus $200 after $500 spend 3% back in first year (up to $20k)
Intro APR 0% for 15 months 0% for 15 months
Annual Fee $0 $0
Travel Benefits Minimal More extensive travel perks

Verdict: If you prefer a flat 2% cash back rate, the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is better.

However, if you spend more on travel or dining, the Chase Freedom Unlimited may offer better rewards.


Who Should Get the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card?

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is ideal for:

  • Individuals who want a simple, high-rate cashback card without worrying about bonus categories.
  • People who plan to make a large purchase or transfer a balance and take advantage of the 0% intro APR.
  • Cardholders who want added perks like Visa Signature benefits and cell phone protection.
  • Those who want a no-annual-fee card with a solid welcome bonus.

However, if you frequently travel and want travel-specific rewards, you may want to explore other options.


FAQs

1. Does the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card have foreign transaction fees?

Yes, the card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, so it may not be the best choice for international travelers.

2. How do I redeem my cash rewards?

You can redeem cash rewards through:

Statement credits

Direct deposits to a Wells Fargo bank account

Purchases via PayPal or gift cards

ATM withdrawal (for Wells Fargo customers only)

3. Can I qualify with fair credit?

Generally, Wells Fargo requires good to excellent credit (670+ FICO score) for approval.

4. Does the card offer purchase protection?

Yes, as a Visa Signature card, it includes purchase protection and extended warranty coverage.

5. How does the cell phone protection work?

You must pay your monthly cell phone bill with the card to qualify for up to $600 per claim, with a $25 deductible.

Final Verdict

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a simple and rewarding cashback credit card.

Also Check: Is Capital One Spark a good business card?

With unlimited 2% cash rewards, no annual fee, a $200 welcome bonus, and a 0% intro APR offer, it provides incredible value.

However, if you need travel rewards or do a lot of spending in specific categories, other cards might be better suited to your needs.

Overall, this card is a great option for those who want straightforward cashback earnings without complicated rewards structures.

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