U.S. Bank Altitude Go Card: The Perfect Card for Everyday Spenders

The U.S. Bank Altitude Go Card is a standout option for individuals who prioritize rewards on daily expenses without the burden of an annual fee. With its generous rewards structure and practical benefits, this card is particularly appealing to food enthusiasts and occasional travelers.

Rewards and Sign-Up Bonus

The U.S. Bank Altitude Go Card features a substantial rewards rate tailored to everyday spending:

• Dining Rewards: Earn 4 points per dollar, including food delivery services, making it an ideal choice for foodies.
• Grocery, Gas, and Streaming Services: Earn 2 points per dollar, catering to routine spending habits.
• General Purchases: Earn 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

The card also offers an enticing sign-up bonus: Earn 20,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days, which equates to a $200 value when redeemed for travel or cash back.

Fees and APR

One of the most attractive features of the U.S. Bank Altitude Go Card is its $0 annual fee, making it a budget-friendly option. The variable APR ranges from 19.99% to 28.99%, which is competitive for a rewards card but may be high for those who carry balances.

Pros and Cons

As with any credit card, the U.S. Bank Altitude Go Card has its advantages and disadvantages.

» Pros:

• High Rewards Rate for Dining: The card offers an excellent rewards rate on dining and food delivery services, making it perfect for those who frequently eat out.
• Diverse Bonus Categories: Earn points on groceries, gas, and streaming services, covering a wide range of everyday expenses.
• Flexible Redemption Options: Points can be redeemed for travel, cash back, gift cards, and more, providing flexibility in how rewards are used.
• Points Do Not Expire: There is no cap on rewards, and points do not expire, ensuring ongoing value.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees: Ideal for occasional international travelers who want to avoid extra charges.

» Cons:

• Limited Travel Perks: The card does not offer extensive travel benefits, which may be a drawback for frequent travelers.
• Short Introductory APR Period: Compared to some competitors, the card has a shorter introductory APR period, which may not be ideal for those planning larger purchases.

Customer Service and Additional Features

U.S. Bank’s customer service ratings are average, but the card offers 24/7 support and a satisfactory mobile app experience. The U.S. Bank Altitude Go Card also includes several additional benefits:

• $15 Annual Streaming Service Credit: Provides a small credit for streaming services, adding extra value.
• Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver: Offers coverage for rental car damage or theft.
• Extended Warranty: Extends the manufacturer’s warranty on eligible purchases.

Practicality and Flexibility

The U.S. Bank Altitude Go Card is highly practical for those who spend significantly on dining, gas, and groceries. Its rewards rate is competitive with some of the best flat-rate cash back cards, making it a valuable option for everyday use. The card’s no-annual-fee structure enhances its appeal, especially for budget-conscious consumers.

Redemption and Travel Features

While the Altitude Go Card does not offer bonus value for travel redemptions like some higher-tier cards, points are worth a consistent 1 cent each, providing straightforward value without devaluation. This consistent value makes it easy to understand and use rewards.

Comparison with Other Cards

When compared to other rewards cards, the U.S. Bank Altitude Go Card holds its own, particularly in dining rewards. For example:

• Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express: Offers 3% cash back on U.S. supermarket purchases (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%), 2% cash back at U.S. gas stations and select U.S. department stores, and 1% cash back on other purchases. It has no annual fee but lacks the high dining rewards rate of the Altitude Go Card.
• Citi Custom Cash® Card: Provides 5% cash back on your highest eligible spend category each billing cycle (up to $500 spent, then 1%), including restaurants, gas stations, and groceries. This card also has no annual fee but might not consistently reward dining as generously as the Altitude Go Card.

Conclusion

The U.S. Bank Altitude Go Card is an excellent choice for those who want to earn rewards on their everyday spending, particularly in dining, without paying an annual fee. Its blend of reward flexibility, practical benefits, and no foreign transaction fees make it a compelling option for average spenders and occasional travelers.

While it may lack the luxury perks sought by frequent travelers, the Altitude Go Card excels in rewarding routine expenses, making it an ideal card for food enthusiasts and those with a focus on everyday purchases.