Amex Blue Cash Preferred vs. Everyday: Grocery Math

Both Amex Blue Cash cards offer great grocery rewards. One has a fee, one doesn’t. Here’s the math to decide.

The Break-Even Math

The difference: 6% vs 3% on groceries = 3% extra

To offset the $95 fee: $95 ÷ 3% = $3,167 in grocery spending

If you spend more than $265/month on groceries, the Preferred wins.

Other Considerations

Streaming: BCP earns 6% vs BCE’s 3%. $50/month streaming = $36 extra from BCP.

Gas/Transit: BCP earns 3% vs 2%. Small difference but it adds up.

Welcome bonus: BCP typically has a larger bonus that offsets year-one fee.

The Bottom Line

Most families spend $400-600/month on groceries, making the Blue Cash Preferred the better choice. The $95 fee is easily offset by the extra 3%, and streaming and gas bonuses add more value.