Credit Cards That Allow Rent Payments – Best Options for 2025
Paying rent with a credit card can be a smart financial move if you choose the right card. Not only can you earn valuable rewards on your largest monthly expense, but you can also build credit history while enjoying other cardholder benefits. Here are the best credit cards for rent payments in 2025.
Why Pay Rent With a Credit Card?
Before we look at the best cards, let’s examine why you might want to pay rent with a credit card:
- Earn rewards on your largest monthly expense
- Build credit history with consistent on-time payments
- Meet minimum spending requirements for sign-up bonuses
- Enjoy purchase protections that cash payments don’t offer
- Delay payment while keeping cash in your account
Top Credit Cards for Rent Payments in 2025
Bilt Mastercard
The only credit card that lets you pay rent with no fees while earning rewards. Earn 1x points on rent payments and 3x on dining.
Chase Sapphire Preferred
Earn 2x points on travel and dining. While not specifically for rent, its generous sign-up bonus makes it valuable for large payments.
American Express Platinum
Premium card with extensive benefits. While it has an annual fee, the travel credits and lounge access can offset the cost.
Capital One Venture Rewards
Earn 2x miles on every purchase, including rent payments. Simple redemption options make this card user-friendly.
Citi Double Cash
Earn 2% cash back on all purchases (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay). No annual fee makes this a great option.
Bank of America Customized Cash
Choose your 3% cash back category. If you select online shopping, you may earn bonus cash on rent payments.
How to Pay Rent With a Credit Card
Most landlords don’t accept credit cards directly, so you’ll typically need to use a third-party service. Here are the most common methods:
- Rent payment platforms: Services like Plastiq, RentTrack, or PayYourRent
- Bilt Mastercard: Specifically designed for rent payments with no fees
- ACH transfer services: Some services code as purchases rather than cash advances
Things to Consider Before Paying Rent With a Credit Card
While paying rent with a credit card has benefits, there are important factors to consider:
- Processing fees: Many services charge 2-3% fees that can outweigh rewards
- Credit utilization: Large rent payments may temporarily lower your credit score
- Interest charges: Always pay your balance in full to avoid high interest
- Landlord acceptance: Some landlords may not accept credit card payments
Maximizing Rewards on Rent Payments
To get the most value from paying rent with a credit card:
- Choose cards with the highest rewards for your spending
- Look for sign-up bonuses that can offset processing fees
- Use services that code as purchases rather than cash advances
- Consider the Bilt Mastercard which has no fees for rent payments
- Always pay your balance in full each month
Conclusion
Paying rent with a credit card can be financially beneficial if done strategically. The Bilt Mastercard stands out as the best option specifically designed for rent payments, while other general rewards cards can also offer value. Always consider fees, interest rates, and your personal financial situation before using a credit card for rent payments.