The Amazon Prime Rewards Visa offers strong benefits like 5% cash back on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases, travel protections, and no annual fee. However, it requires a Prime membership and has limited rewards outside Amazon. This 2025–2026 guide breaks down the pros, cons, and who should apply.
The Amazon Prime Rewards Visa offers 5% cash back at Amazon and Whole Foods, plus travel perks. Learn its pros, cons, and whether it’s worth applying in 2025–2026.
The Amazon Prime Rewards Visa is best for frequent Amazon and Whole Foods shoppers. It gives 5% back on purchases, strong travel protections, and no annual fee—but you must maintain an active Prime membership to maximize benefits.
The Pros and Cons of Amazon Prime Rewards Visa [2025–2026 Guide]
With millions of Amazon customers turning to credit cards for extra rewards, the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa has become a go-to option. Issued by Chase, this card is designed for heavy Amazon and Whole Foods users, offering generous cashback but also limitations. Let’s explore whether it’s worth applying in 2025–2026.
The Pros of Amazon Prime Rewards Visa
The card shines for loyal Amazon shoppers. Here are the top advantages:
5% Cash Back at Amazon and Whole Foods
Prime members enjoy 5% back on all Amazon.com and Whole Foods purchases, which is one of the highest reward rates for everyday shopping.
No Annual Fee (with Prime Membership)
There’s no direct annual fee for the card. However, you must pay for Amazon Prime, which in 2025 costs around $139 per year.
Broad Rewards on Everyday Spending
- 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores
- 1% back on all other purchases
This makes it useful beyond Amazon, especially for dining and fuel.
Travel and Purchase Protections
The card includes:
- Travel accident insurance
- Baggage delay insurance
- Extended warranty protection
- Purchase protection for theft or damage
No Foreign Transaction Fees
A strong perk for international travelers, saving you 2–3% per transaction abroad.
The Cons of Amazon Prime Rewards Visa
While attractive, the card isn’t perfect. Here’s what to watch out for:
Requires Amazon Prime Membership
You only get the 5% back if you have a Prime subscription. Without it, rewards drop to 3% back on Amazon and Whole Foods.
Limited Value Outside Amazon
If you don’t shop frequently at Amazon or Whole Foods, the card’s biggest benefit is lost. Other cash-back cards may offer better all-around value.
High APR for Carrying a Balance
Like most reward credit cards, interest rates are relatively high (often above 20% APR). Carrying a balance can erase cashback benefits quickly.
Competing Credit Card Options
Cards like the Chase Freedom Unlimited or Citi Double Cash may offer broader rewards without tying you to a specific retailer.
Who Should Apply for the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa?
The card is a strong fit if:
- You shop frequently at Amazon.com or Whole Foods
- You already pay for a Prime membership
- You want travel protection and no foreign transaction fees
- You prefer a simple cashback system without rotating categories
However, if you’re not a frequent Amazon shopper, you may be better off with a more versatile rewards card.
Summary of Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 5% back at Amazon & Whole Foods | Requires Prime membership |
| No annual fee | Limited value outside Amazon |
| 2% back at restaurants, gas, drugstores | High APR if carrying balance |
| Travel & purchase protections | Competing cards may offer more flexibility |
| No foreign transaction fees | Cashback focused on Amazon ecosystem |
FAQs About Amazon Prime Rewards Visa
Q1. Does the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa have an annual fee?
No annual fee, but you must pay for Amazon Prime membership.
Q2. Can I use the card outside Amazon and Whole Foods?
Yes, you’ll earn 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores, plus 1% everywhere else.
Q3. Does the card have foreign transaction fees?
No, making it a good choice for international travel.
Q4. What credit score is needed to qualify?
Generally, a good to excellent credit score (690+) is recommended.
Q5. Is it worth it if I don’t have Amazon Prime?
Without Prime, rewards drop to 3% on Amazon and Whole Foods, so it’s less competitive.
Topics/Tags: Amazon Prime Rewards Visa pros and cons, Amazon Visa benefits 2025, Amazon credit card review 2026, should I get Amazon Visa card, Amazon Prime credit card rewards.