1.American Express Platinum Card
American Express
- 5%Points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com
- 5%Points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com
- 1%Points on other purchases
Earn an offer as high as 175,000 points after spending $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months.
Earn 5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 5X points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com, and 1X point on other purchases.
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The American Express Platinum Card stands out as the top choice because of its extensive travel benefits and high earning potential on travel-related purchases. With a welcome bonus that can reach up to 175,000 points, it offers exceptional value for frequent travelers.
Pros:
- Extensive travel benefits
- High welcome bonus
Cons:
- High annual fee
- Requires significant spending to maximize rewards
2.Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite Card
Bank of America
- 2%Points on travel and dining purchases
- 1.5%Points on all other purchases
75,000 bonus points after you make at least $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn unlimited 2 points for every dollar spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points per dollar on all other purchases.
19.49%-27.49% variable
What sets the Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite Card apart is its high rewards rate on travel and dining purchases, making it an excellent choice for those who frequently spend in these categories. The welcome bonus of 75,000 points adds significant value for new cardholders.
Pros:
- High rewards on travel and dining
- Generous welcome bonus
Cons:
- Annual fee
- Limited bonus categories
3.Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
American Express
- 6%Points at Hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy
- 3%Points at Restaurants Worldwide
Earn 200,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points after spending $6,000 on purchases with the card in the first 6 months.
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points at Hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy and 3X points at Restaurants Worldwide.
19.49%-28.49% variable
The standout feature of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card is its ability to earn 6X points at Marriott hotels, making it a top choice for frequent travelers who stay at Marriott properties. The substantial welcome bonus of 200,000 points further enhances its appeal.
Pros:
- High earning potential on hotel stays
- Generous welcome bonus
Cons:
- High annual fee
- Limited to Marriott properties for maximum rewards
- 6%Points at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy
- 3%Points in select categories
- 2%Points on all other purchases
Earn 3 Free Night Awards after spending $3,000 on eligible purchases within 3 months of account opening.
Earn 6X points for every $1 spent at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy, 3X points in select categories, and 2X points on all other purchases.
19.24%-27.74% variable
This card shines for its ability to earn 6X points at Marriott hotels, making it an excellent option for loyal Marriott guests. The welcome bonus of 3 Free Night Awards adds significant value, especially for those planning hotel stays.
Pros:
- Affordable annual fee
- Generous rewards on hotel stays
Cons:
- Limited to Marriott for maximum rewards
- No introductory APR offer
5.United Gateway Card
Chase
- 2%Miles on eligible United purchases, gas stations, and local transit
- 1%Miles on all other purchases
Earn 30,000 Bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
Earn 2 miles per dollar spent on eligible United purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting, and 1 mile on all other purchases.
19.74%-28.24% variable
A key differentiator of the United Gateway Card is its no annual fee structure, making it accessible for casual travelers. The ability to earn 2 miles on United purchases and other categories adds value without the burden of an annual fee.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Good rewards on United purchases
Cons:
- Limited to United for maximum rewards
- Lower rewards rate on non-United purchases
6.United Business Card
Chase
- 2%Miles on United purchases
- 1%Miles on all other purchases
Earn 100,000 bonus miles + 2,000 PQP after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
Earn 2 miles on United purchases and 1 mile on all other purchases.
19.74%-28.24% variable
The United Business Card is particularly appealing for small business owners who frequently fly United, offering a substantial welcome bonus of 100,000 miles. Its rewards structure is designed to maximize earnings on United-related expenses.
Pros:
- High welcome bonus for business expenses
- Good rewards on United purchases
Cons:
- Annual fee
- Limited to United for maximum rewards
Final Words
As you explore the best credit card signup bonuses this May 2026, remember to carefully assess the benefits each card offers in relation to your spending habits and lifestyle. Take the time to compare options, ensuring you make an informed decision that maximizes your rewards and aligns with your financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Earn an offer as high as 175,000 points after spending $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months.
Earn 5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 5X points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com, and 1X point on other purchases.
You can earn 75,000 bonus points after you make at least $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn unlimited 2 points for every dollar spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points per dollar on all other purchases.
You can earn 200,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points after spending $6,000 on purchases with the card in the first 6 months.
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points at Hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy and 3X points at Restaurants Worldwide.
Yes, many credit cards offering lucrative signup bonuses also come with annual fees. It's important to consider whether the benefits and rewards you receive outweigh the cost of the fee.
To choose the best credit card, evaluate your spending habits, desired rewards, and whether you can meet any required spending thresholds for bonuses. Compare cards based on their rewards rates, benefits, and annual fees to find the best fit for you.
