Credit unions and members across the country are cashing in on the benefits offered by rewards cards, including introductory bonuses.

According to a new survey by Bankrate.com, more than half of the cash-back credit cards (55% of those surveyed) offer introductory bonuses, but some cards are offering fewer points or require more spending to get the same bonus as last year.

The survey, Bankrate.com said this week, found that 53% of cards offer 1% cash back beginning with the first dollar of spending and that 47% offer higher payouts for specific expenditures such as gasoline, groceries or dining. Also, only 22% of the cards surveyed charge annual fees and 65% do not have expiration dates on rewards, New York-based Bankrate.com found.

Greg McBride, Bankrate.com's senior financial analyst, said rewards cards offer many benefits for credit union members.

“As long as you pay your balance in full every month, a rewards card is a good way to get some of that money back,” McBride said. “Make sure to find the card that offers the best fit for your lifestyle. For example, one consumer might want to maximize cash back at the gas pump, but others might place more value on grocery, dining or travel rewards. It depends on your personal habits and there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution.”

The full results of the survey, which included 55 cash-back credit cards offered by the largest banks and credit unions, plus other prominent cash-back offerings, is available online.

Instant Insights /

More Credit Cards Offer Introductory Bonuses, But Bonuses Aren&rsquo;t as Generous

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More Credit Cards Offer Introductory Bonuses, But Bonuses Aren’t as Generous