Wells Fargo Active Cash Card Review 2024

The Wells Fargo Active Cash has mastered the art of simplicity without compromising on value. With 2% cash back on everything, this no-annual-fee card is leading the flat-rate rewards race.

But are these show stealer rewards distracting from the card’s setbacks? With foreign transaction fees and forgettable perks lurking around, there could be more to this card than meets the eye.

Keep reading to see if the Wells Fargo Active Cash is your straightforward solution or if superior alternatives are a better match.

This article will include:

• The pros and cons of the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card.
• How the Wells Fargo Credit Card rewards work.
• If this cash-back card is the right fit for you.

Read more:

• The Best Cash Back Credit Cards
• Credit Cards for Free Travel and Cash Back

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card: Quick Facts

Our Verdict

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Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card: On FIRE Score

What Is the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card?

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is a rewards credit card with no-nonsense cash back, perfect for everyday spending. The show stealer is easily the 2% flat rate rewards across all purchases, unbeatable in the no-annual-fee, cash-back arena.

New cardholders get a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months, a doable goal since you can use this card for everything. You also get a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers in the first 15 months.

As a Visa Signature card, you can enjoy 24/7 concierge services and exclusive perks at the Luxury Hotel Collection. Other benefits include cell phone protection, advanced security features, and zero liability protection.

How Does the Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card Work?

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card offers cash back rewards on all purchases. It’s simple: for every $1, you earn 2% cash back. So, if you spend $100, you’ll get $2 back in rewards.

The best part? There are no categories to track; you earn the same rate on all purchases. If you’re a newbie or just craving simplicity, this no-frills approach can be a welcome break from more complex rewards systems (ahem, Amex).

How to redeem Wells Fargo rewards? You can redeem your rewards online or by calling the number on the back of your card. Each reward is generally worth around 1 cent and you can redeem them for as little as $1.

Here are your options:

• Cash back: Redeem as a statement credit towards your Wells Fargo credit card, checking account, or mortgage. You can also request a paper check in $25 increments.
• ATM: Cash out your rewards in $20 increments at a Wells Fargo ATM.
• Purchases: Redeem rewards as a statement credit to offset eligible purchases.
• Travel: Use your rewards to book flights, hotels, car rentals, and other options through the Wells Fargo travel portal.
• Gift cards: Redeem your rewards with a range of gift cards in various amounts.
• Pay with Rewards: Use your rewards for merchandise when shopping online or with a Wells Fargo partner merchant.
• Transfer: You can transfer your rewards to other Wells Fargo Rewards cards.

Extra benefits are always a bonus with no-annual-fee cards, but even so, the Wells Fargo selection is sub-par.

You get $600 cell phone protection (subject to a $25 deductible), but aside from this, nothing is setting it apart from other cards. Other basic benefits include zero liability protection, security features, and Visa Signature perks.

Another disappointment is the foreign transaction fee. Wells Fargo charges you a 3% fee for each foreign transaction amount converted to US dollars, enough to put a damper on anyone’s vacation.

Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card: Fees

Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Generous 2% flat-rate rewards.
• No minimum redemption amount.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months.
• No annual fee.

Cons

• No bonus categories.
• Cash redemption restrictions.
• 3% foreign transaction fee.
• Lack of perks and protection.

Why I like it

The main selling point of the Wells Fargo Active is the simplicity of its flat-rate rewards, but that’s not the only perk under its sleeve. The card has some handy features to help you cut costs and maximize value.

Generous 2% flat-rate rewards

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card rewards of unlimited 2% cash back on everything are a major draw for simplicity and value. There are no complex calculations here – every dollar you spend earns you two cents.

I spend way too much time scanning the fine print to see which purchases can get me the best rewards. But this card is a welcome break if you want to shop or enjoy a meal without thinking about categories.

Wells Fargo’s flat-rate rewards are also leading the pack compared to its no-annual fee competitors:

Check out our list of the best cash back credit cards.

No minimum redemption amount

One of my frustrations with other cards is the requirement to reach a minimum redemption threshold before you can cash in your rewards. I’m not a fan of being denied access to my own money – it stops me from getting fast cash when I need it.

With the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card, there’s no such hassle. Whether you want to redeem your rewards for cash back, statement credits, or other options, you can do so whenever you choose for as low as $1. The rewards never expire, so you can accumulate them and treat yourself.

0% intro APR for 15 months

Are you thinking about making a big purchase or transferring a balance? The 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months can be a huge plus. This welcome offer lets you consolidate and pay down debt without getting hit with interest, potentially saving you a large chunk of money.

No annual fee

Having no annual fee is always a welcome sight. With this Wells Fargo cash back rewards card, you can enjoy the cash back rewards without worrying about offsetting costs. If you pay off your balances, you’re practically getting free money for your usual spending.

Why you may want a different card

The lack of premium perks is part of the package for no-annual-fee cards, but is the addition of foreign transaction fees and redemption obstacles a step too far?

No bonus categories

The absence of bonus categories can fall into a pro or con, depending on your spending habits and preferences. As I mentioned, only having flat-rate rewards keeps everything simple, but it’s not for everyone.

Traveling always puts a big dent in my monthly budget, so getting rewarded for the amount I spend in this area would be very valuable. Having bonus categories lets you maximize your rewards by concentrating your purchases on the highest-earning category.

And there are plenty of no-annual-fee cards that offer these options. For example, card_name offers 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, streaming services, and grocery scores. You can also get 5% on hotels and rental cars through Capital One Travel.

Cash redemption restrictions

While Wells Fargo gets props for being one of the only cards you can redeem at ATMs, it’s a shame you can only get your money in $20 increments. It’s not a major setback, but I wouldn’t be happy if I had $38 to redeem and could only take out $20.

Wells Fargo also claims there may be a maximum limit on the amount of cash redeemed at the ATMs but doesn’t specify how much; a little wishy-washy if you need enough cash for a big payment.

And the restrictions don’t stop there. Cash redemption options via phone or online are only available in $25 increments. Again, this isn’t a huge obstacle, but I’d rather have total control over my own rewards.

3% foreign transaction fee

Traveling already costs enough without throwing transaction fees into the mix. If you frequently travel internationally or make purchases from foreign merchants, the 3% foreign transaction fee can add up quickly.

Dealbreaker? Take a look at the card_name There are no foreign transaction fees and you get other perks, such as travel accident insurance, concierge services, and 24-hour travel assistance services.

Check out the top travel cash back credit cards for more jet-setter perks.

Lack of perks and protection

I’m not expecting the world from a no-annual-fee card, but the Wells Fargo Active Cash benefits are somewhat lackluster. Aside from the cellphone protection (up to $600 against damage or theft), there’s nothing beyond the basics.

And this becomes more obvious when you compare it to other no-annual-fee cards, such as the Chase Freedom Unlimited:

Discover the best credit cards for travel insurance benefits.

Wells Fargo Active Cash Visa Card: Additional Things to Know

If you’ve made it this far, it’s time to find out how to apply for the card and how it compares to its Wells Fargo sibling: Wells Fargo Autograph.

How to apply for a Wells Fargo Credit Card?

Here’s how to apply for the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card in five simple steps:

1. Choose your card: Visit the Wells Fargo website to browse their selection of cards. Choose the one that aligns with your spending habits and financial goals. The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card credit score requirement is 670 or higher, so ensure you’re in good standing before applying.
2. Complete the application: Click “Apply Now” for your chosen card and give accurate information, including your name, address, Social Security number, and annual income. You can also add an authorized user during the application process.
3. Submit your application: Review your application and submit it online, over the phone, or in person at a Wells Fargo branch.
4. Wait for approval: Wells Fargo will review your application to determine your eligibility. This process typically takes a few minutes if done online but will take more time if done over the phone or in person.
5. Receive and activate your card: If approved, you’ll receive your new credit card in the mail within a week or two. Once you have it, activate it online or by phone before using it for the first time.

Here’s a heads up; Wells Fargo could deny your application if you’ve opened another Wells Fargo credit card in the last six months. You may also not be eligible for the welcome bonus if you’ve opened a card in the last 15 months. So, time your applications carefully!

Wells Fargo Autograph Card vs. Active Cash: What’s the difference?

The most obvious distinction lies in the rewards system. The Autograph Card offers points rather than cash back; each point is worth around 1 cent. You can earn points in several categories, like dining, travel, gas, transit, streaming services, and phone plans.

For a no-annual-fee card, these categories are valuable for everyday purchases, and the consistency of 3x points for everything can save any confusion over which spending categories are worth more.

On the other hand, the Active Cash card keeps it simple with a flat 2% cash back on all purchases. So, if you don’t want to bother with categories, the Active Cash card might be the better choice.

You can use your points and cash back for a range of redemption options, including statement credit, travel, gift cards, and merchandise, for as little as $1.

Both cards have no annual fee, which is always a plus. However, the Active Cash Card has a foreign transaction fee, whereas the Autograph Card does not. So, if you’re a frequent traveler, the Autograph might save you money on those international purchases.

Another key difference is in the introductory offers. The Autograph Card lets you earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first three months, worth $200 in redemption value.

The Active Cash also gives you $200 cash, but only after spending $500 in three months — a much more achievable goal.

While both cards have a 0% intro APR, the Active Cash covers purchases and balance transfers, while Autograph only includes purchases. The Active Cash extends this period to 15 months, while Autograph limits it to 12 months.

Here’s a summary of the two Wells Fargo cards:

How to Maximize Cash Back With the Wells Fargo Active Cash

Since the Wells Fargo credit card offers a flat 2% cash back on all purchases, you’ll earn rewards on everything from groceries to gas to dining out.

So you have two options: use your card on everything to build up cash back quickly, or use it for all the purchases that don’t fit into the bonus categories of your other cards.

To redeem your points, I’d stick with statement credit or cash back. This gives you more flexibility than gift cards tied to a specific brand or store. The same goes for redeeming merchandise online, plus you won’t earn any rewards on these transactions.

Wells Fargo also lets you transfer your cash back to another Wells Fargo Rewards account. For example, you can transfer your cash back from the Active Cash to points on the Autograph card, free of charge. By combining points, you can redeem for a larger purchase.

You can also take advantage of the introductory APR period. If you have any pricey purchases planned or existing high-interest debt on other cards, consider using the 0% introductory APR period on purchases and qualifying balance transfers to save money on interest charges.

Best Cards to Pair With the Wells Fargo Cash Card

If you’re a stickler for simplicity, you can use this card alone to earn consistent cash back.

But if you spend a lot in one category, it’s worth combining it with other cards that let you earn big on certain purchases, then you can use the Wells Fargo rewards card as your ‘everything else’ go-to.

Here are my top budget-friendly picks for different spending categories:

• Travel: The card_name has a modest $95 annual fee and lets you earn 5x miles on hotels and rental cars through Capital One Travel and 2x miles on everything else. Benefits include travel accident insurance, $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®, and Lifestyle Collection hotel perks.

For more rewards, check out our complete Capital One Venture X review.

• Groceries: The card_name has a $0 annual fee in the first year, then $95 after. You get a whopping 6% cash back on groceries, plus 6% on streaming, 3% on transit and gas, and 1% on everything else.
• Dining: For a $0 annual fee, card_name lets you earn 3% cash back on dining, groceries, entertainment, streaming services, and grocery stores. The card also comes with a range of Capital One benefits, such as Capital One Dining, to access exclusive reservations to top restaurants.
• Business: The card_name is a no-annual-fee option that gives you 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable, and phone services each year.

You also get 2% on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants every year, and 1% on everything else.

For a more premium option, learn about the Chase Ink Business Premier.

Alternatives to the Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card

If you’re keen to maximize your cash rewards, here are some other cards worth investigating:

Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card: Useful Links

• Submit your Wells Fargo Active Cash Card application.
• Check out the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card login and website.
• Contact via the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card customer service.
• Learn more about the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card benefits.
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s website.

Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card Customer Reviews

The Wells Fargo customer reviews are a mixed bag.

Many of the negative reviews complain about the minimum $25 redemption amount. However, Wells Fargo seemingly listened and has removed this in favor of no minimum redemption.

Here are updated Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card reviews:

“They have updated it so you can redeem any cash back amount after the billing cycle (no more than $25 min). However, when asking for a small credit increase after six months of using the card, they were very vague about whether they would do a hard or soft inquiry, and they made a hard inquiry again and did not approve me. Otherwise, the card is great, and 2% on everything is awesome.”

“2% cash back can’t go wrong! I got it five months ago, and they gave it to me with a $7500 limit. So far so good — their app is easy to use too.”

“Applied and was approved within 30 seconds. Balance transfer took less than 1 minute. The application process was very easy. I have my mortgage with Wells Fargo, so that may have been a factor in my easy approval and higher credit limit. I like the 15 months 0% interest transfer. Plus, the $200 bonus. Can’t beat that!”

Is Wells Fargo a Good Credit Card for Me?

Let’s face it, without the unlimited 2% rewards on all your purchases, the Wells Fargo Active Cash is just like any other no-annual-fee cash back card. But you shouldn’t take this lightly. It’s hard to find a budget-friendly card offering anything above 1.5% on flat-rate rewards.

The Active Cash is pretty appealing if you prefer simplicity and enjoy earning rewards on everything you buy. Plus, your rewards never expire and there’s no minimum redemption amount.

However, with my hefty grocery bills, I would prefer getting more bang for my buck. I suggest having a card that lets you earn more in your top spending categories, then use the Active Cash for everything else.

And with those foreign transaction fees and humdrum benefits, having another card in your wallet can’t hurt.

Apply for the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card.

FAQ

How to increase the credit limit of the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card?

The minimum Wells Fargo Active Cash Card credit limit is $1,000, but some have reported getting up to $25,000. To request a credit limit, call this number: 1-800-642-4720.

And just a warning, many have complained about Wells Fargo’s reluctance to dish out credit line increases; though, having an excellent credit score and an above-average salary can help boost your chances.

Does Wells Fargo have foreign transaction fees?

Yes, the Wells Fargo Active Cash charges 3% of each transaction converted to US dollars. If you want a $0 foreign transaction fee card, check out the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card.

Wells Fargo Active Cash Card vs. Chase Freedom Unlimited: What’s the difference?

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card gives a solid 2% cash back on all purchases, making it simple and rewarding for everyday spending. On the other hand, card_name offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases, plus 5% on travel (via Chase Ultimate Rewards), 3% on dining, and 3% on drugstore purchases.

Both cards have no annual fee and a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. However, they also charge 3% foreign transaction fees – not ideal for frequent travelers.

Do you prefer consistency and higher cash back on all purchases? The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card could be a good fit. But if you enjoy strategizing your spending to maximize bonus categories (albeit the slightly lower flat rate), the Chase Freedom Unlimited could be the better fit.

Our Methodology

Our credit card reviews aim to provide a comprehensive assessment of both quantitative and qualitative factors.

The quantitative analysis focuses on the financial costs and benefits associated with each card, including interest rates, fees, rewards programs, cash back offers, and other monetary perks. However, we also consider qualitative aspects that impact the everyday use and value of the card.

These include the simplicity of the application process, the structure of the rewards program, the likelihood of utilizing certain card features, and the suitability of the card for frequent or infrequent use.

Our On FIRE rating system allows for quick comparisons between cards within a particular category. When choosing a new credit card, consumers should weigh the quantitative dollar amounts along with qualitative ease-of-use factors to select the best overall option for their needs.

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