7 Best Credit Cards for Medical Expenses

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated November 10, 2025

Covering medical costs can feel overwhelming, but the right credit card can make those expenses easier to manage. Some cards offer low or 0% introductory APR periods, while others provide cash back or rewards that help offset the cost of care. This guide highlights seven of the best credit cards and how each one can provide practical financial support.

  • Chase Freedom Unlimited®

    The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a flexible cash back card that works well for everyday spending, including medical bills. It offers simple rewards without the need to track rotating categories.

    This card is often recommended for people who want steady rewards and an easy-to-use system. It can also serve as a reliable option for covering both medical and non-medical expenses.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
    • 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service
    • 1.5% cash back on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn $200 cash back after spending $500 within the first three months of membership.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: Variable, typically around 18.99%–28.49%
    • Other benefits: Purchase protection, extended warranty, travel insurance options
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Cash back
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Other relevant details: Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for travel redemptions

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Broad bonus categories, including drugstores
    • Simple flat-rate rewards on all purchases
    • Travel protections available through Chase
    • Flexible redemption options

    Redemption Options:

    Rewards can be redeemed for cash back, travel, gift cards, or purchases through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, with a FICO score starting at 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card charges foreign transaction fees, which may limit its use abroad.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    The straightforward rewards structure makes it easy for new cardholders to manage and use.

  • Wells Fargo Reflect® Card

    The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card focuses on giving cardholders extra time to pay off purchases without interest. It is designed for people who want to manage large expenses, such as medical bills, in a more affordable way.

    Instead of offering rewards, the card emphasizes long-term financing. This makes it a practical option for those who value flexibility in repayment.

    Earning Structure:

    • This card does not earn rewards or cash back.

    Welcome Bonus:

    The card does not currently offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR for up to 21 months, then 17.24%, 23.74%, or 28.99% variable applies after
    • Other benefits: Cell phone protection, access to My Wells Fargo Deals
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • One of the longest intro APR periods available
    • Useful for consolidating medical debt
    • Includes cell phone protection coverage
    • Accepted widely as a Visa card

    Redemption Options:

    Since the card does not earn rewards, there are no redemption options.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, with a FICO score starting at 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The lack of rewards and a foreign transaction fee may limit its appeal for frequent travelers or everyday spending.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It works well for beginners because it offers a long 0% intro APR period, giving them time to manage medical costs without added interest.

  • AARP® Essential Rewards Mastercard® From Barclays

    The AARP® Essential Rewards Mastercard® from Barclays is designed for everyday use with a focus on rewarding common spending categories. It gives members a way to earn cash back on purchases and medical expenses while keeping costs manageable. This card appeals to those who want simple rewards without complex redemption rules.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3% cash back on drugstore purchases, including eligible medical expenses
    • 2% cash back at grocery stores
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn a $200 cash back bonus after spending $1,000 within the first three months of membership.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 20.99%–29.99% variable
    • Other benefits: Access to AARP member offers
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Cash back credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Additional perks: Fraud protection and contactless payment capability

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Higher rewards on drugstore purchases
    • Useful for grocery and everyday spending
    • Simple flat rate on all other purchases
    • Backed by AARP and Barclays partnership

    Redemption Options:

    Rewards can be redeemed for statement credits, direct deposits, gift cards, or travel purchases.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, with a FICO score of 700 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not offer the highest rewards in all categories and charges foreign transaction fees.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    The straightforward rewards system makes it easy to manage, especially for those new to credit cards.

  • Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

    The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is a flat-rate cash back card that fits well for everyday spending. It provides consistent rewards without requiring users to track categories, making it easy to manage for anyone who values simplicity.

    It also offers a welcome bonus and no annual fee, adding extra savings potential while working well for covering medical expenses and rewarding daily transactions.

    Earning Structure:

    • Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn a cash rewards bonus of $200 after spending $500 within the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Cell phone protection, Visa Signature perks
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Cash back
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Intro APR offer: 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Simple flat-rate cash back on all purchases
    • Intro APR period for new purchases and balance transfers
    • Cell phone protection when paying with the card
    • Wide acceptance through the Visa network

    Redemption Options:

    Cash rewards can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposits, gift cards, or for purchases via the Wells Fargo Rewards portal.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit, often starting around a 670 FICO score.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, which makes it less ideal for international use.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    The flat 2% cash rewards rate makes it easy for beginners to earn value without managing bonus categories.

  • U.S. Bank Shield™ Visa® Card

    The U.S. Bank Shield™ Visa® Card is designed for people who want to manage debt more effectively. It focuses on balance transfers and offers tools that make it easier to pay down existing medical or personal expenses.

    It provides a straightforward way to handle costs without adding unnecessary features. Its low introductory APR and flexible payment options also help cardholders pay down balances more efficiently.

    Earning Structure:

    • 4% cash back on prepaid air, hotel, and rental car reservations booked through the Rewards Travel Center

    Welcome Bonus:

    The card does not currently advertise a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles; then 17.74%–28.74% variable applies
    • Other benefits: Tools to help manage debt and payments
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Balance transfer / low-interest card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Additional details: Designed as a debt management solution rather than a rewards card

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Introductory 0% APR for balance transfers
    • Helps manage medical or other large expenses
    • Backed by Visa’s wide acceptance
    • Simple structure without complex rewards programs

    Redemption Options:

    Since this card does not focus on rewards, there are no redemption options for points or cash back.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, often with a FICO score of at least 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The lack of rewards or travel benefits may not appeal to those seeking perks beyond debt management.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its simple design and 0% intro APR make it easy for new cardholders to handle medical expenses without added complexity.

  • Bilt Mastercard®

    The Bilt Mastercard® is designed for people who want to earn rewards on everyday expenses, especially rent. It allows cardholders to pay rent without transaction fees, which is rare among credit cards.

    It can also help offset medical expenses when used for healthcare purchases, making it a practical choice for building points without paying extra costs on large, recurring payments.

    Earning Structure:

    • 1x points on rent payments (without fees)
    • 2x points on travel purchases
    • 3x points on dining purchases
    • 1x points on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    The Bilt Mastercard® does not currently offer a traditional welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 20.49%, 23.49%, or 28.49% variable
    • Other benefits: Access to Bilt Rewards program, cell phone protection
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Rewards credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Additional perks: Travel and purchase protections through Mastercard

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Ability to earn points on rent payments
    • Strong rewards on dining and travel
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Access to Mastercard benefits and protections

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, fitness classes, rent credits, or transferred to travel partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, with a FICO score between 670 and 850.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not provide a welcome bonus, and earning rates outside of rent, travel, and dining are limited.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It is beginner-friendly because it charges no annual fee and allows renters to earn rewards on a major recurring expense.

  • Upgrade Triple Cash Rewards Visa®

    The Upgrade Triple Cash Rewards Visa® works as a hybrid between a credit card and a personal loan. This makes it useful for people who want flexible repayment options while covering necessary expenses. It offers a simple cash back program that rewards spending in everyday categories, including purchases like medical bills or health-related services.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3% unlimited cash back on every purchase in Home, Health, and Auto categories

    Welcome Bonus:

    Earn a $200 bonus after opening a Rewards Checking Preferred account and making three debit card transactions.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 14.99%–29.99% variable
    • Other benefits: Fixed monthly payment option, free access to credit score
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Hybrid credit card / personal loan
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Earn higher rewards on health-related expenses
    • Flexible repayment with installment options
    • Simple flat rewards on all other purchases

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back rewards can be applied toward statement credits or used to reduce the balance on the card.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good credit, often starting around a 580 score.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Rewards are highest for health, home, and auto purchases, but the 3% foreign transaction fee lowers its value for international spending.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It is easy to manage due to its straightforward earning structure and no annual fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a credit card when using it for healthcare costs?

Look for low interest rates or 0% introductory APR offers if you plan to pay medical bills over time. Cards that offer flexible rewards or cash back can help make healthcare spending more manageable. Also, choose a card with no foreign transaction fees if you might need medical care abroad.

What should I consider before using a credit card instead of a medical payment plan or loan?

Compare interest rates, fees, and repayment flexibility between credit cards and financing options from healthcare providers. Credit cards may be better for short-term expenses or earning rewards, while medical loans can provide structured, lower-interest repayment terms. Always review the total cost of borrowing before deciding.

Can using a credit card for medical expenses affect my credit score differently than other purchases?

Yes. Large medical charges can increase your credit utilization ratio, which may temporarily lower your credit score. Paying off the balance quickly or using a card with a high credit limit can minimize the impact. Making on-time payments still builds positive credit history.

How can I negotiate or reduce medical bills before deciding to pay with a credit card?

Request itemized bills and verify charges for accuracy. Ask about hardship adjustments or discounts for paying upfront. Many hospitals and clinics offer zero-interest payment plans for uninsured or underinsured patients. Negotiating before using a credit card helps avoid unnecessary debt and interest costs.