In today’s competitive credit card market, the Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card stands out. It is a top choice for consumers seeking to maximize rewards. They can enjoy these benefits without the burden of an annual fee. This card is designed to cater to a range of spending habits. It offers significant benefits in everyday categories such as dining, travel, and streaming services. Here’s everything you need to know about the Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card. Learn how it compares to other popular cards.
Key Features of the Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card
1. Generous Rewards Program
- 3X Points: Earn three points per dollar spent on popular categories, including:
- Dining (restaurants, fast food, and bars).
- Travel (airfare, hotels, and car rentals).
- Gas stations and transit expenses.
- Streaming services.
- Phone plans.
- 1X Points: Earn one point per dollar on all other purchases.
2. No Annual Fee
Enjoy all these benefits without paying an annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for budget-conscious cardholders.
3. Introductory Offer
- Sign-Up Bonus: Receive 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases within the first three months of account opening. That’s equivalent to a $200 cash redemption value.
- Introductory APR: Benefit from a 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 12 months, followed by a variable APR based on your creditworthiness.
4. Extensive Travel Benefits
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Save money on international purchases.
- Travel Protections: Includes car rental collision damage waiver and travel assistance services.
5. Built-In Cell Phone Protection
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Must be at least 18 years old (19 in Alabama and Nebraska; 21 in Puerto Rico).
- Residency: Must be a U.S. resident with a valid Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Credit Score: Good to excellent credit is typically required, with a FICO score of 670 or higher.
- Income: Demonstrate a stable income sufficient to meet the card’s payment obligations.
- Other Requirements: No history of bankruptcy or serious delinquencies.
Use your Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card to pay your monthly phone bill and enjoy up to $600 in protection against covered damage or theft (subject to a $25 deductible).
Comparison with Other Credit Cards
To help you decide if the Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card is right for you, here’s an easy-to-understand comparison with two other popular rewards cards:
| Feature | Wells Fargo Autograph Card | Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card | Capital One SavorOne® Card |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rewards | 3X on dining, travel, gas, transit, streaming, and phone plans; 1X on all other purchases | 2X on travel and dining, 1X on all other purchases | 3% on dining, entertainment, streaming, grocery stores; 1% on all other purchases |
| Annual Fee | None | $95 | None |
| Sign-Up Bonus | 20,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first three months | 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months | $200 after spending $500 in the first three months |
| Foreign Transaction Fees | None | None | None |
| Introductory APR | 0% for 12 months on purchases | Not offered | Not offered |
| Best For | Broad bonus categories with no annual fee | Frequent travelers who value flexible point transfers | Food and entertainment enthusiasts who want straightforward cash back rewards |
Who Should Consider the Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card?
This card is ideal for individuals who frequently spend in the 3X categories, such as:
- Frequent Travelers: Enjoy rewards on airfare, hotels, and car rentals while avoiding foreign transaction fees.
- Food Enthusiasts: Earn points every time you dine out or order takeout.
- Tech Savvy Consumers: Get rewarded for paying for streaming services and phone plans.
Additionally, it’s a great option for those looking to build or improve their credit while earning valuable rewards.
How to Maximize Rewards with the Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card
- Focus on Bonus Categories: Prioritize using the card for dining, travel, gas, and other 3X point categories.
- Leverage the Sign-Up Bonus: Spend $1,000 within the first three months to secure the 20,000-point bonus.
- Pay Your Balance in Full: Avoid interest charges by paying your balance in full each month.
- Pair with Other Cards: Complement this card with a flat-rate cash back card for non-bonus category spending.
Redemption Options for Your Rewards
Wells Fargo offers flexible redemption options, including:
- Cash Back: Redeem points as a statement credit or direct deposit.
- Travel: Use points for flights, hotels, and car rentals.
- Gift Cards: Choose from a wide selection of popular retailers.
- Online Shopping: Redeem points at checkout with select merchants.
Pros and Cons of the Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card
Pros
- Generous rewards across multiple everyday categories.
- No annual fee, making it budget-friendly.
- Attractive sign-up bonus for new cardholders.
- No foreign transaction fees, ideal for international travel.
- Includes cell phone protection for added security.
Cons
- Base rewards rate is limited to 1X on non-bonus purchases.
- Requires good to excellent credit for approval.
How to Apply this Credit Card
Applying for the Wells Fargo Autograph Card is straightforward. Visit the Wells Fargo website or a local branch to start your application. Ensure you have the following information ready:
- Personal details (name, address, and Social Security number).
- Employment and income information.
Final Thoughts
The Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card is a versatile option. It rewards consumers who seek to earn points on everyday purchases. It does not require an annual fee. With its generous rewards program, it’s an excellent choice for frequent travelers. The sign-up bonus and travel perks also make it ideal for dining enthusiasts and anyone looking to maximize value.
The Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card excels in offering broad 3X rewards categories. This advantage comes without an annual fee when compared to competitors like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® and Capital One SavorOne®. Before applying, evaluate your spending habits to ensure this card aligns with your financial goals. If the 3X categories match your lifestyle, the Wells Fargo Autograph Credit Card could become your go-to payment tool.