Payment for utilities, including gas, electricity, internet, and sewage, is often taken directly from a checking or savings account. Paying these expenses right away is the go-to option. However, another option could exist if you are short on cash for one month or seek to maximize the benefits you get from your credit card. Utilizing credit card for bill payment can be a strategic move.

Credit cards can offer more than a payment method for managing monthly expenses. If you pay your monthly bills with a credit card, you may be eligible for many rewards and bonuses that can add up and make a good sum. They can provide cash back, points, and other perks, making them an attractive option for savvy consumers.

Venmo Credit Card

When considering the best credit card for bills, the Venmo Credit Card emerges as a versatile contender, especially for those prioritizing flexibility in their reward categories. This feature is helpful for those who spend a lot on utilities.

The Venmo Credit Card lets you earn up to $2.49 in rewards on a $80 electric bill with a $2.95 credit card surcharge. This doesn't make a profit, but higher bills or lower taxes increase the benefit. A $120 best credit card for bill payments and the exact surcharge could earn $3.69 in rewards, netting $0.74. These savings add up, improving your finances.

The card offers 2% cash back on your second-highest spending category and 1% on other purchases, including Venmo, person-to-person. These higher rewards depend on your monthly spending. This setup requires you to monitor your spending in various categories to maximize your rewards effectively. One unique feature of this card is the option to redeem your rewards as cryptocurrency or cash back, providing additional flexibility.

Given its variable APR of 20.24%, 26.24%, or 29.24%, it's advisable to pay off balances promptly to avoid interest charges. The Venmo Credit Card is an adaptable choice for optimizing utility and the best credit card for rewards for bill payments.

BankAmericard® Credit Card

The BankAmericard® credit card, with a CNET rating of 8.75/10, stands out as a reliable choice for managing financial burdens. With no annual fee and a recommended credit score range of 670 – 850, it is accessible to a wide range of consumers. The variable APR ranges from 16.24% to 26.24% on purchases and balance transfers, making it a viable option for those needing flexibility in their payments.

This card's 0% APR for 18 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers within 60 days makes it stand out. This feature benefits those struggling with best credit card for bill payments by providing a long period without interest. Avoiding debt requires discipline with this approach. The standard APR applies after the introductory period. A 3% balance transfer fee applies to each transaction.

This credit card is a solid option for those seeking the best credit card for bills, particularly when managing more significant balances or consolidating debts.

Bilt Mastercard® Credit Card

The Bilt Mastercard®, issued by Wells Fargo with a CNET rating of 4.5/10, offers a unique proposition for those who want to earn rewards on rent payments, a rare feature in the credit card for bill payment market. The card has no annual fee, making it an economical choice for renters. It caters to a credit score range of 670 – 850.

If you pay rent through the Bilt app, you can earn up to 100,000 points per year without transaction fees with the Bilt Mastercard®. This feature appeals to renters with high monthly bills. The card gives 1 point per dollar spent on rent, 3 on dining, and 2 on travel. At least five Bilt card transactions per billing cycle are required for these rewards, encouraging more frequent use.

However, it’s essential to be cautious with online payment portals that might charge fees, as they can outweigh the benefits of the points earned. The balance transfer fee after the initial 120 days is the greater of $5 or up to 5% per transfer.

U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

Those who manage multiple expenses regularly should consider the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card as the best credit card for bills. Unique to this card is a 5% quarterly cash-back bonus on up to $2,000 in combined expenditure in two distinct groups you choose from a wide range of options.

This credit card can pay TV, internet, and cell phone bills, making it versatile. Prepaid travel and groceries or gas earn 5% and 2% back, respectively. It's affordable, with no annual fee and a $200 sign-up bonus after $1,000 in eligible purchases within 120 days.

The card's 0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles then switches to a variable 19.74%-29.74% APR, saving interest. However, selecting categories each quarter is important because defaulting to 1% cash back on all purchases may not maximize benefits.

Citi Custom Cash® Card

The Citi Custom Cash® Card is the best bill payment credit card for simple rewards. Its best feature is automatic 5% cash back on up to $500 in your highest expenditure category each billing cycle, covering utility bills, groceries, and gas. Bill payment is easy with this card because it doesn't require tracking or changing spending categories.

The sign-up bonus of $200 cash back after $1,500 spent in the first six months and no annual fee make it appealing. The card's 15-month 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers, followed by a variable APR of 19.24%-29.24%, saves on interest.

However, the $500 cap in the highest spending category may limit rewards for more significant expenses. For those who prefer a straightforward financial approach, this card is appealing.

Bottom Line

So, here is our list of top credit cards for hassle-free bill payments. With the advantages and features highlighted in this article, you can choose the best options that suit your needs. Moreover, it never hurts to keep more than one card because emergencies don’t ask before coming, and one should always be prepared for them.