SimplyCash Card from American Express
American Express · American Express
No-fee seekers who want simple, above-average flat cash back on everyday spending.
VaultNerd estimate based on the card's tier and income requirements, not an official issuer cutoff. Approval also depends on income, debt, and credit history.
Our verdict
One of Canada's strongest no-fee cash back cards thanks to the 1.25% floor and 2% on gas and groceries. Just mind the grocery cap and Amex acceptance.
Reward rates
Groceries 2% up to $300 cash back per year (about $15,000 in spend), then 1.25% | 2% |
Gas | 2% |
Everything else | 1.25% |
Welcome bonus
5% bonus cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months (up to $100)
Requirement: Applies to your first $2,000 in purchases in the first 3 months
Pros
- 1.25% everywhere is among the best no-fee base rates in Canada
- Simple, automatic cash back with no categories to activate
Cons
- Grocery cash back capped at $300 per year
- Minimal insurance and Amex acceptance gaps at some merchants
Perks
- 2% cash back at Canadian gas stations and grocery stores with no annual fee
- Strong 1.25% base rate on everything else
- Free additional cards
- Amex Experiences and Amex Offers access
Insurance
- Travel accident insurance $100,000
- Purchase protection (90 days)
- Extended warranty (+1 year)
Frequently asked questions
Is the SimplyCash Card from American Express worth it?
It has no annual fee, and we rate it 3.9 out of 5. It's best suited to no-fee seekers who want simple, above-average flat cash back on everyday spending. The welcome bonus is worth roughly $100, which covers the first year for many people. Whether it's worth it for you depends on your spending. Run your own numbers through our credit card finder to see the net rewards after the fee.
What does the SimplyCash Card from American Express earn?
It earns 2% on groceries, 2% on gas and 1.25% on everything else.
What credit score do you need for the SimplyCash Card from American Express?
We'd suggest a score of around 640 or higher, which puts approval in our "moderate" band. This is a VaultNerd estimate based on the card's tier and stated requirements. Approval also depends on your income, existing debt and credit history.
Researching and writing about Canadian personal finance since 2026.
Last reviewed June 2026 · How we research
“SimplyCash Card from American Express Review.” VaultNerd, https://www.vaultnerd.com/ca/credit-cards/amex-simplycash, updated June 2026.
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