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Best Credit Cards For Home Improvement Projects Of April 2024

Lead Editor, Credit Cards & Travel Rewards
Deputy Editor

Reviewed

Updated: Apr 25, 2024, 3:24pm

Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

A credit card can be a useful tool when it comes to home improvements. That’s true whether you’re shopping for a home remodel online or in a big box store. By picking up one of the best credit cards for home improvement, you could earn lucrative rewards for each dollar spent and you may even be able to finance your project without interest for a limited time.

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

Our editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Our editorial content is not influenced by advertisers. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and companies, so all are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the credit card methodology for the ratings below.

  • 210 credit cards rated
  • 28,000 data points collected
  • 130 credit cards owned
  • 53 years of industry experience

Read more
Show Summary

Best Credit Cards For Home Improvement


Best Credit Cards for Home Improvement of 2024

Best for monthly projects

Citi Custom Cash® Card

Apply Now Apply Now
On Citi's Website
4.9
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Apply Now Apply Now
On Citi's Website

Up to 5% Reward Rate

5% cash back on up to $500 in purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle. 4% cashRead More

Welcome Bonus

$200

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

19.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

Credit Score

Excellent, Good, Fair

Editor's Take

The Citi Custom Cash is a great option for people looking to maximize cash back rewards without having to worry about activating or selecting bonus categories.

Pros & Cons
  • No registration required to earn bonus rewards
  • Cash-back categories are unique categories that other cards may not offer bonus rewards for
  • Introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers
  • No annual fee
  • High balance transfer fee
  • High foreign transaction fee
  • Some everyday rewards categories are neglected
Card Details
  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% – 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025.
  • No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
  • No Annual Fee
  • Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash® Card account per person.
Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $1500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for 0% intro APR

Wells Fargo Reflect® Card

Apply Now Apply Now
On Wells Fargo's Website
4.4
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Apply Now Apply Now
On Wells Fargo's Website

Welcome Bonus

N/A

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

18.24%, 24.74%, or 29.99% Variable APR

Credit Score

Excellent, Good (700 - 749)

Editor's Take

Those seeking a balance transfer card will likely appreciate that the Wells Fargo Reflect Card offers a generous introductory APR period on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. However, the card doesn’t offer rewards or other notable benefits, so give it a pass if you don’t need a long introductory APR period.

Pros & Cons
  • Generous introductory APR period for purchases and qualifying balance transfers
  • $0 Annual Fee
  • No rewards program or welcome bonus
  • Balance transfer fee: 5%, min: $5
  • 3% Foreign transaction fee
Card Details
  • Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
  • 0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 18.24%, 24.74%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate, BT fee of 5%, min $5.
  • $0 Annual Fee.
  • Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
  • Through My Wells Fargo Deals, you can get access to personalized deals from a variety of merchants. It’s an easy way to earn cash back as an account credit when you shop, dine, or enjoy an experience simply by using an eligible Wells Fargo credit card.
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for simple cash back

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Apply Now Apply Now
On Wells Fargo's Website
4.1
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Apply Now Apply Now
On Wells Fargo's Website

Unlimited 2% Rewards Rate

Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

Welcome Bonus

$200 Cash Rewards

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

Credit Score

Excellent, Good (700 - 749)

Editor's Take

The Wells Fargo Active Cash offers an unlimited 2% cash rewards rate on purchases and charges no annual fee. This puts it in competition with the best flat-rate cash back cards on the market.

Pros & Cons
  • Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
  • $0 annual fee
  • Cellphone protection benefit
  • There’s a balance transfer fee
  • There’s a foreign transaction fee
  • No travel transfer partners
Card Details
  • Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
  • Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
  • 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
  • $0 annual fee.
  • No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
  • Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
  • Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best travel card for home improvement

U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card *

U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card
4.0
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Up to 5X Reward Rate

Earn 5X points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center. Earn 3X points forRead More

Welcome Bonus

50,000 points

Annual Fee

$400

Regular APR

22.24% - 29.24% variable

Credit Score

Excellent (750 - 850)

Editorial Review

Considering its lavish travel perks and the $325 annual travel credit, frequent travelers can easily justify the $400 annual fee. Plus, cardholders get eight free visits per year to Priority Pass airport lounges (enrollment required).

Pros & Cons
  • 50% points bonus when redeeming for travel
  • Up to $325 in annual travel credit
  • No limits on points earnings
  • No points transfer options available
  • Free lounge access limited to eight visits per year
  • High annual fee
Card Details
  • Earn 50,000 points after spending $4,500 in the first 90 days of account opening
  • Earn 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center, 3 points per dollar on eligible travel purchases and mobile wallet spending and 1 point per dollar on all other eligible net purchases
  • Earn up to $325 in annual credits
Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $4,500 in the first 90 days of account opening.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for choosing your home improvement store

U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card *

U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card
3.8
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Up to 6% Reward Rate

Earn 6% cash back each quarter on combined eligible purchases from two retailers of choice ($1,500 limit); Earn 3% cashRead More

Welcome Bonus

$250 bonus

Annual Fee

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95

Regular APR

19.74% - 29.74% (Variable)

Credit Score

Good, Excellent (700 - 749)

Editor's Take

With this card, you can choose two retailers each quarter to earn 6% cash back up to the set limit—an amazing return on spending. When you know you’re due for a shopping trip (or two) with a merchant on the long list of choices, update your selections and earn extra rewards.

Pros & Cons
  • The quarterly bonus rewards structure outearns similarly-structured peers
  • Bonus categories include less-commonly bonused options like warehouse stores and big-box retailers
  • Cool factor: Unique LED technology lights up logo when you use tap-to-pay
  • You must enroll each quarter into two retailers and one purchase category of your choice or all purchases only earn 1.5% cash back
  • U.S. Bank doesn’t have any transfer partners so redemption options are limited
  • The card charges 3% of each foreign transaction
Card Details
  • Earn a $250 bonus after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
  • Earn up to 6% cash back each quarter on combined eligible purchases from two retailers of choice ($1,500 limit); 3% cash back each quarter in one everyday category of choice ($1,500 limit) and 1.5% cash back on everything else.
  • Plus, earn 5.5% cash back on prepaid car and hotel reservations booked through the Rewards Center
  • $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95
Get a $250 bonus after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for large projects

Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card *

Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card
3.6
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Up to 2.5% Reward Rate

Those eligible for Tier 1 Rewards earn 2.5% cashback on the first $10,000 of qualifying eligible purchases per billing cycleRead More

Welcome Bonus

N/A

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

17.24% - 27.24% variable

Credit Score

Excellent (750 - 850)

Editor's Take

If you regularly rack up your monthly balance, the 2.5% return on the Alliant card is hard to beat. The downsides are that excellent credit is recommended before you apply for the card and the lack of a welcome bonus.

Pros & Cons
  • 2.5% cash back rate on up to $10,000 in monthly purchases for eligible accounts (then 1.5%)
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Generous credit line
  • No intro APR offer
  • No welcome bonus
  • Requires a companion checking account with balance, direct deposit and e-statement requirements
Card Details
  • Earn up to 2.5% cash back with no categories to track on up to $10,000 in purchases each billing cycle with qualifying accounts. All other purchases earn 1.5%
  • You can choose to receive cash back from your Alliant credit card via a credit card statement credit (appearing within one billing cycle) or as a deposit into your Alliant checking or savings
  • Up to $5,000 of Personal Identity Theft Protection for covered expenses to restore your identity
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for quarterly projects

Huntington Voice Rewards Credit Card℠ *

Huntington Voice Rewards Credit Card℠
3.5
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Up to 3X point rewards

3X points for categories of your choice and 1x points on other purchases even after you reach the quarterly limit

Welcome Bonus

N/A

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

14.99% - 30.99% variable APR

Credit Score

Excellent, Good (700 - 749)

Editor's Take

Earn a high cash-back rate in the category of your choice—with the option to change it every quarter. The maximum is $2,000 in spend per quarter, but that could get you far, depending which category you pick. There’s also no annual fee.

Pros & Cons
  • No annual fee
  • Earn 3X points for categories of your choice and 1x points on other purchases even after you reach the quarterly limit
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • No welcome offer
  • 3% rewards are capped
  • No low intro rate offer
Card Details
  • Earn 3X points for categories of your choice
  • Pick one of 10 categories and change it every quarter to fit your needs
  • Change the rewards category every quarter (or 3 months)
  • Earn 1x points on other purchases even after you reach the quarterly limit.
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Summary of the Best Credit Cards for Home Improvement

Credit Card
Best For
Credit Score
Annual Fee
Welcome Bonus
Best for monthly projects
Excellent, Good, Fair
$0
$200
Best for 0% intro APR
Excellent, Good
$0
N/A
Best for simple cash back
Excellent, Good
$0
$200 Cash Rewards
Best travel card for home improvement
Excellent
$400
50,000 points
Best for choosing your home improvement store
Good, Excellent
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95
$250 bonus
Best for large projects
Excellent
$0
N/A
Best for quarterly projects
Excellent, Good
$0
N/A

Best Credit Cards for Home Improvement

Citi Custom Cash® Card

[ jump to details ]

With the Citi Custom Cash® Card, you can select home improvement as your top earnings category one month and then something completely different next month. That flexibility could make it an excellent choice for short-term home projects.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on purchases in a top eligible spend category up to the first $500 spent each billing cycle, 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025 and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn $200 in cash back after spending $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. The bonus points come in the form of 20,000 ThankYou® Points that can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

Annual fee: $0

Other benefits and drawbacks: While the 5% bonus category has a $500 monthly spending cap, those who need to spend more on their home makeover can still benefit from the card’s introductory APR. New cardholders can get a 0% introductory APR for 15 months from date of account opening on purchases and from date of first transfer for balance transfers completed within 4 months of account opening. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on creditworthiness. There is also a balance transfer fee of 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.

Custom Cash cardholders get access to Citi Entertainment to book presale tickets and exclusive events. Beyond this, the Citi Custom Cash® Card provides convenience benefits like 0% fraud liability, Mastercard ID protection and contactless pay.

Wells Fargo Reflect® Card

[ jump to details ]

Looking to finance a big home remodeling purchase with a 0% introductory APR period? If so, it’s hard to beat the Wells Fargo Reflect® Card. It offers a 0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. A 18.24%, 24.74%, or 29.99% variable APR applies thereafter. Balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro APR and a balance transfer fee of 5%, min $5 applies.

Rewards: This card does not earn rewards.

Welcome offer: This card does not offer a welcome bonus.

Annual fee: $0

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Unfortunately, you won’t earn any rewards or a welcome bonus with this card. It does throw in a few additional benefits though, including up to $600 of cellphone protection (subject to a $25 deductible) and the ability to check your FICO® Score for free with Credit Close-Up℠.

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

[ jump to details ]

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is a no-nonsense cash-back card that earns 2% cash rewards on purchases. Unlike other cards on this list, the Active Cash doesn’t have an earnings cap and it doesn’t require you to meet any criteria to earn those excellent flat-rate rewards.

Rewards: Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.

Annual fee: $0

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card’s competitive intro APR offer is another selling point if you’re looking to finance a home renovation purchase without paying interest. New cardholders get a 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers, then a 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR applies. Balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a fee of up to 5%, with a minimum of $5 applies.

If you pay your phone bill with your card, you’ll receive up to $600 of cellphone protection against theft or damage (subject to a $25 deductible). Cardholders also receive Visa Signature benefits such as 24/7 concierge service and access to the Luxury Hotel collection.

U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card *

[ jump to details ]

While the U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card* is most known for its travel perks, it could also earn you strong rewards on your home improvement purchases provided that you’re willing to pay with your phone at checkout.

Rewards: Earn 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center, 3 points per dollar on eligible travel purchases and mobile wallet spending and 1 point per dollar on all other eligible net purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 50,000 points after spending $4,500 in the first 90 days of account opening.

Annual fee: $400

Other benefits and drawbacks: Mobile wallets that qualify for the accelerated earnings rate include Apple Pay, Google Pay or Samsung Pay. On top of earning rewards on spending, cardholders can also receive an annual statement credit of up to $325 for eligible travel and dining purchases, including takeout and delivery.

Frequent travelers will appreciate that the U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card* doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees and offers a statement credit of up to $100 every four years to reimburse the application fee for TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry®. The card also provides a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership that grants eight free airport lounge visits per membership year.

U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card *

[ jump to details ]

The U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card* lets you pick two retailers each quarter to earn the card’s highest cash-back rate. In addition to warehouse retailers like Target, Walmart and Amazon.com, the list of eligible retailers includes several home improvement and furniture chains such as Home Depot, Lowes, Ace Hardware, Pottery Barn and Ikea. The card also offers an everyday bonus category of your choosing and earns an elevated flat rate on everything else.

Rewards: Earn 6% cash back each quarter on combined eligible purchases from two retailers of choice ($1,500 limit), 5.5% cash back on prepaid car and hotel reservations booked through the Rewards Center, 3% cash back each quarter in one everyday category of choice ($1,500 limit) and 1.5% cash back on everything else.

Welcome offer: Earn $250 after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening.

Annual fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95

Other benefits and drawbacks: You’ll only earn the 6% cash-back rate on up to $1,500 in combined spending at the two stores you choose. Your 3% everyday category is also capped at $1,500 in quarterly spend.

The good news is that all other purchases earn an unlimited 1.5% cash back. This is a key advantage that the U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card* has over some of the other “choose your bonus category” cards which drop their earnings rate to 1% after you’ve reached your monthly or quarterly bonus cap.

While the U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card* doesn’t offer a 0% intro APR, it does allow cardholders to split large purchases into fixed monthly payments with a U.S. Bank ExtendPay® Plan. Instead of a traditional APR, these plans charge a flat monthly fee. Notably, purchases that are paid over time with an ExtendPay Plan still earn rewards.

Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card *

[ jump to details ]

You’ll have to jump through a few hoops to earn “Tier One” flat-rate rewards on the Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card*, but the work could be well worth it if you have a large home project coming up. The card’s eye-popping top earnings flat-rate applies to the first $10,000 of qualifying purchases each month.

Rewards: Earn up to 2.5% cash back with no categories to track on up to $10,000 in purchases each billing cycle with qualifying accounts. All other purchases earn 1.5%.

Welcome offer: This card does not offer a welcome bonus.

Annual fee: $0

Other benefits and drawbacks: Qualifying for Tier One rewards with the Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card* requires opening an Alliant High-Rate Checking account. You’ll then need to opt in to eStatements, receive at least one direct deposit per month and maintain an average daily balance of at least $1,000.

In months that the above requirements aren’t met, you’ll still earn Tier Two rewards of unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases. The Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card* doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. It also provides a few helpful protections including travel accident insurance, purchase security for up to 90 days and an auto rental collision waiver.

Huntington Voice Rewards Credit Card℠ *

[ jump to details ]

The Huntington Voice Rewards Credit Card℠* lets you choose from 10 eligible spending categories to earn bonus rewards and home improvement stores is one of the choices. You can change your category every quarter which could make this card an ideal fit for a home project that only lasts a few months.

Rewards: Earn 3X points for categories of your choice and 1x points on other purchases even after you reach the quarterly limit.

Welcome offer: This card does not offer a welcome bonus.

Annual fee: $0

Other benefits and drawbacks: To apply for this card online, you’ll need to be an existing Huntington Bank customer who lives in one of the states where the bank operates. If you don’t have a Huntington.com username and password, you’ll be directed to call the customer service number or visit a branch.

Your high earnings are capped at $2,000 in spend each quarter, after that you’ll earn one point per dollar. Huntington doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees on any of its credit cards. Other benefits are sparse but you do get an extra day to make your payment before the late fee kicks in. You can also check your FICO Score for free each month.


Methodology

Forbes Advisor considers a number of factors when evaluating credit cards. While not an exhaustive list, here are some things typically considered:

  • Earnings rates
  • Welcome bonus
  • Introductory APR
  • Discounts or rewards offered at home improvement stores
  • Fees
  • Consumer benefits such as purchase protection or extended warranties

Forbes Advisor rates cards both as stand-alone products (the card rating on the review) and compared to others in a specific use case (the card rating you see on a specific “Best” list). The rating for each card changes on different “Best” lists according to how a person looking for a card in that category may value certain card features.

Forbes Advisor uses data from multiple government agencies to determine how much a typical cardholder might spend. We use the same numbers for cards in the same category to make sure we are comparing cards the same way. The bonus categories for spending included with each card are factored into our determination of how many rewards a cardholder could expect to earn if they use the card as a consumer normally would.

Read more: How Forbes Advisor Rates Credit Cards


Other Home Improvement Cards To Consider

Various home improvement stores offer co-branded credit cards. These cards aren’t as good overall, but may offer store-related perks or discounts that could be worthwhile in specific circumstances.

IKEA® Visa® credit card*

The IKEA® Visa® credit card* is designed for IKEA loyalists who want to maximize their earnings potential at the megastore while receiving rewards on their everyday spending, as well.

Rewards: Earn 5% back in rewards on IKEA purchases, including Traemand installation and TaskRabbit assembly services, 3% back in rewards on dining, grocery stores and utility purchases and 1% back in rewards on all other purchases made with your IKEA Visa credit card.

Welcome offer: Earn $25 off first IKEA purchase of $25 or more instantly after using the card immediately upon approval in-store or receive a statement credit after using the card immediately upon approval online. Plus, $25 Bonus IKEA Reward Dollars after spending $500 or more outside of IKEA, Traemand and TaskRabbit within the first 90 days of account opening.

Annual fee: $0

Other benefits and drawbacks: This card is all about the rewards as there are few additional benefits to speak of other than the lack of foreign transaction fees. Also, note that redemption restrictions abound. Reward certificates are only disbursed in $15 increments, must be used toward IKEA purchases and expire just 45 days after they’re received.

The IKEA® Visa® credit card* does not offer a 0% intro APR period. If that’s something you’re looking for from an IKEA-branded card, consider the IKEA® Projekt credit card* instead.

The Home Depot Consumer Credit Card*

The Home Depot Consumer Credit Card* is ideal for those customers who frequent this big box retailer and could use an extra hand with financing and an extension on its return policy. This is a store card and can only be used at the physical store or on homedepot.com.

Rewards: This card does not offer rewards.

Welcome offer: This card does not offer a welcome bonus.

Annual fee: $0

Other benefits and drawbacks: This card offers six months financing on purchases of $299 or more. Keep in mind that any purchases under $299 will not be eligible for this special financing offer and you will incur interest charges if you do not pay your balance in full. While the six months special financing offer does sound tempting, if you fail to pay off the full balance within the six months, you will be assessed interest charges from the purchase date.

Instead of the normal 3 month return policy, the The Home Depot Consumer Credit Card* grants you a full year to make returns.

MyLowe’s Rewards Credit Card*

If Lowe’s is your go-to stop for home supplies, the MyLowe’s Rewards Credit Card* can net you a nice discount at the box store every day. Or, for eligible purchases, cardholders can forgo the card’s regular purchase discount to access special financing terms.

Rewards: Earn 5% off every eligible purchase or order.

Welcome offer: Earn 20% off your purchase when you open and use a new account now through 1/31/24. Exclusions apply.

Annual Fee: $0

Other benefits and drawbacks: Purchases of $299 qualify for six month financing where no interest is charged if the purchase is paid in full within the promotional period. But unlike a traditional 0% intro APR offer, this is a deferred interest promotion. Interest will be charged from the purchase date if you’re unable to pay it off within the promotional period.

For purchases of $2,000 or more, cardholders can split their purchase into 84 fixed monthly payments at a reduced APR. On top of these standard options, Lowe’s has been known to offer limited-time discounts and financing promotions to new accounts or for specific products and services. Note that this is a closed loop credit card, meaning that you can only use it at Lowe’s.


What Is a Home Improvement Credit Card?

A home improvement credit card is any credit card that’s well-suited to paying for home remodeling purchases. Often this means that the card earns extra rewards for these purchases or can provide limited-time 0% APR financing. With some credit cards, both of these benefits may be available.

Several retailers in the home improvement space offer their own store card or co-branded credit cards. Using one of these cards could work well if you expect to buy most of your home products from that particular retailer. However, general rewards cards offer more flexibility and are likely to provide better long-term value after your project is complete.


Pros and Cons of Credit Cards for Home Improvement

Pros of Credit Cards for Home Improvement

  • Rewards. Most of the credit cards on this list earn rewards with several offering higher earnings rates for purchases within the home improvement category.
  • Financing promotions. Many credit cards for home improvement include long interest-free financing periods of 15 to 21 months.
  • Welcome offers. It’s common for home improvement credit cards to offer new cardholder promotions such as a bonus or discount. Note that welcome bonuses often come with spending requirements.

Cons of Credit Cards for Home Improvement

  • Earnings caps. Many of the credit cards that include home improvement as an eligible bonus category also have monthly or quarterly limits. Depending on the size of your project, you may come out ahead by choosing a flat-rate cash-back card instead.
  • Deferred interest. While true 0% intro APR offers are easy to find, some home improvement credit cards use a deferred interest model which can lead to surprise interest charges if you’re unable to pay off the purchase before the promotional period ends.
  • Usage restrictions. Some home improvement or furniture retailers offer closed loop credit cards that can only be used at their stores which makes them less flexible than traditional credit cards.

How To Choose the Best Card for Home Improvement

When you’re looking for a credit card for improvement, you’ll first want to estimate the cost of your project. For smaller expenses, bonus caps may not be a concern. But for larger remodels, you could potentially earn far more in rewards by choosing a credit card that offers an elevated flat rate on all purchases with no limits.

Knowing the projected cost of your home makeover can also help when comparing welcome bonus offers. A card that’s offering an exceptional welcome bonus may also have a higher spending requirement than other cards that are offering average welcome bonuses. If you’re confident that you’ll reach that spending threshold anyway, it could make sense to choose the card with the higher bonus offer.

If you’re hoping to use a home improvement credit card to finance a large home expense, it’s important to consider how much you could realistically pay toward the purchase per month. Divide your purchase amount by that number to calculate how many months it would take you to pay it off. Then, look for credit cards that offer 0% intro APR periods of at least that length.

Finally, it’s important to examine the fine print of a card’s interest-free promotion. Note that unlike regular 0% intro APR offers, deferred interest plans will add interest to your balance from the purchase date if it isn’t fully repaid during the promotional period. If possible, we recommend avoiding deferred interest financing.

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Bottom Line

With the right credit card in hand, you could turn your home improvement dreams into reality while enjoying the added rewards, interest-free financing or benefits that come with it. When comparing home improvement credit cards, read the terms and conditions of each card carefully to understand the rewards structure, fees and any limitations that may apply.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which credit card has the best rewards for home improvement?

The credit card that has the best rewards for home improvement will depend on your specific goals. If you’re seeking a nice blend between tiered and flat-rate rewards consider the U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card* which earns above-average rewards at two retailers of your choice plus one everyday category and then 1.5% cash back on everything else, all for no annual fee.

If you plan to make frequent trips to a specific home improvement store, a card that offers rewards and discounts at that particular retailer may yield better results. Lastly, keep in mind that a card that offers an introductory APR offer on purchases, like the Wells Fargo Reflect® Card, could be more valuable to you than any rewards a card can offer.

What is the best credit card for home improvement?

There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all credit card. A card that yields the best rewards on a major remodeling project may not be the same card for multiple trips for smaller purchases. And someone who could use extra time to pay off a big project at home might fare better with a card offering an extended 0% introductory APR since the interest rate charged by most credit cards will outweigh any rewards.

What is the easiest home improvement store credit card to get?

Many retailers that offer a store card or similar line of credit partner with issuers—like Synchrony Bank or Barclays, to underwrite and create their card programs. This means that two different home improvement stores may use the same or similar criteria to determine your creditworthiness. However, the MyLowe’s Rewards Credit Card* is one example of a home improvement card that’s known to consider applicants who have fair credit.

What is the best way to use a credit card for home repair?

Before choosing a new credit card for home repair expenses, you should identify your goals. Are you looking to earn cash-back rewards to use any way you’d like? Travel rewards towards your next big trip? Discounts at the store that come with card ownership? Or do you simply want as much interest-free time as possible to pay off the purchase? Once you know what you want to get out of a new home improvement card, you can determine which card will be the best fit for you.


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*The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor: U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card, U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card, Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card, Huntington Voice Rewards Credit Card℠, MyLowe’s Rewards Credit Card, IKEA® Visa® credit card, IKEA® Projekt credit card, The Home Depot Consumer Credit Card. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Information provided on Forbes Advisor is for educational purposes only. Your financial situation is unique and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer financial advice, advisory or brokerage services, nor do we recommend or advise individuals or to buy or sell particular stocks or securities. Performance information may have changed since the time of publication. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Forbes Advisor adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by our partners.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $1500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
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Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $4,500 in the first 90 days of account opening.
Get a $250 bonus after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
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