When it comes to maximizing rewards, especially for frequent Amazon shoppers, the Prime Visa credit card is often top of mind.
But is the Amazon Prime credit card really worth it?
Let’s break down the pros, cons, and whether this card deserves a spot in your wallet.
The Basics
The Prime Visa is a no-annual-fee credit card available exclusively to Amazon Prime members. It offers cash back on everyday purchases with a focus on rewarding loyal Amazon and Whole Foods shoppers.
The sign-up bonus?
Key Benefits
5% Cash Back at Amazon and Whole Foods: This is the standout perk. If you frequently shop on Amazon or at Whole Foods, this benefit can quickly add up. For someone who spends $500 a month between these two, that’s $25 back each month—or $300 a year!
2% Cash Back at Restaurants, Gas Stations, and Drugstores: You also get solid rewards for some of the most common spending categories outside of Amazon, which can sweeten the deal if you use this card for dining out or fueling up. You'll get 1% cash back on everything else.
No Foreign Transaction Fees: This is a big perk for international travelers, as many cards charge fees of 2-3% on purchases made abroad.
Purchase Protection and Extended Warranties: You also get some valuable protections for purchases, including damage/theft protection and extended warranties on eligible items.
Potential Drawbacks
Amazon Prime Membership Required: The card is only available if you have an Amazon Prime membership, which costs $139 per year. If you’re not already a Prime member, this additional cost can eat into your rewards.
Limited 5% Categories: While 5% at Amazon and Whole Foods is great, if you don’t shop at these places often, the card may not provide as much value compared to other cashback cards that offer 2-3% on a wider range of categories.
Amazon-Focused: If Amazon isn’t a big part of your shopping routine, this card’s main perk is wasted. Other credit cards may offer more diverse rewards programs that cater to different spending habits.
Is the Prime Visa Worth It?
The Prime Visa is a great option for loyal Amazon and Whole Foods customers who want to maximize cash back rewards on everyday purchases. If you’re already paying for an Amazon Prime membership and spend a decent amount at these retailers, the 5% cash back alone makes it a solid choice. If you're interested in applying for the card, you can do so here.
However, if you’re not a heavy Amazon shopper or already have a rewards card that offers better all-around value, it might be worth looking at other options.