FinlyWealth's Credit Card and Banking Awards 2026
Published Sep 23, 2026 2:28 PM • 9 min read
2026 is here, and it’s time for our Canadian Financial Product Awards!
Everyone has different spending habits and lifestyles, which is why each award category is designed to best fit specific needs.
Many products were considered in each category, and the award was given to the product that achieved the best overall balance of fees, rewards, perks, requirements, and customer support.
We’ll start with credit cards and then move on to other financial products.
Credit Card Winners of 2026
Overall Rewards Credit Card Winner: MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard
Our choice for: Highest rewards on groceries & dining
on MBNA's website
Welcome Bonus
Up to 30,000 points ($245 in cash back value or $300 when redeemed for MBNA Travel)††
Annual Fee
$120
Interest Rates
21.99% / 22.99%
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
5/5
The MBNA Rewards World Elite® Mastercard® is one of the best reward credit cards in Canada, offering high rewards on frequently spent categories such as groceries and restaurant purchases. The annual birthday bonus, unique to this card, also provides a significant boost to your yearly earnings. Additionally, the card features a comprehensive list of benefits, including price protection—a rare and valuable perk not found with many other cards in Canada. These factors make this card one of the best to have in Canada.
Awards & Recognition

Best Rewards Credit Card
2026
Pros
- High grocery optimization
- High dining optimization
- Annual birthday bonus
- Solid travel insurance
- Rare price protection
- Good redemption values
Cons
- Missing key insurance categories
- Low gas optimization
- Annual fee
- High income requirements
Rewards
- Earn 5 points‡ for every $1 spent on eligible restaurant, grocery, digital media, membership, and household utility purchases until $50,000 is spent annually in the applicable category.
- 1 point‡ for every $1 on all other eligible purchases.
- Each year, you will receive Birthday Bonus Points‡ equal to 10% of the total number of Points the Account earned in the 12 months before the month of the primary cardholder's birthday, to a maximum Birthday Bonus each year of 15,000 Points.
Insurance
Coverage
Mobile Device Insurance
$1,000Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 yearCar Rental Damage & Theft
31 daysFlight Delay
$500/person after 4 hoursCommon Carrier Travel Accident Insurance
$1,000,000Travel Medical Insurance (64 & under)
$2M for 21 daysLost or Stolen Baggage
$1,000/personBaggage Delay
$1,000/personPrice Protection
$500/item, $1,000/account per year
Benefits
Details
Annual Birthday Bonus
10% of the Points earned the 12 months prior to the primary cardholder's birthday month (up to a max 15,000 bonus points per year)Car Rental Discount
10% off base rate of Avis Rent A Car and Budget Rent A Car in Canada and US and 5% internationallyTrip and legal Assistance
Concierge Services
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
$80,000 personal or $150,000 household
The MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard earns this award thanks to its exceptional flexibility and consistency across everyday spending. It delivers strong returns in common purchase categories while allowing cardholders to redeem rewards in multiple ways, making it easy to extract value no matter your lifestyle. Whether rewards are used for travel, statement credits, or merchandise, the experience remains straightforward and rewarding.
What truly sets this card apart is how well it balances fees, rewards, and accessibility. It offers a generous welcome offer, practical insurance coverage, and a redemption structure that doesn’t lock users into a single ecosystem. For Canadians who want a powerful all-around rewards card without unnecessary complexity, MBNA takes the top spot in 2026.
Overall Travel Credit Card Winner: Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card
Our choice for: Premium Travel Perks and No FX Fees
on Scotiabank's website
Welcome Bonus
Earn up to $1,250 in value, including up to 35,000 bonus Scene+ points
Annual Fee
$150
Interest Rates
20.99% / 22.99%
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.8/5
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + is a strong choice for frequent travelers, especially those who value flexibility and premium perks. It stands out with its rare benefit of no foreign transaction fees, making international purchases more cost-effective. Additionally, the card offers a valuable blend of travel perks, including airport lounge access, comprehensive insurance coverage, and flexible rewards, making it an ideal companion for those who frequently travel abroad and want to avoid extra fees while enjoying premium benefits.
Awards & Recognition

Best Travel Credit Card
2026
Pros
- High rewards
- No foreign transaction fees
- Airport lounge access
- Shell Fuel Savings
- Comprehensive insurance
- Generous intro offer
Cons
- High income requirements
- High annual fee
Rewards
- Earn 3x Scene+™ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland and participating Co-ops and more†
- Earn 2x Scene+™ points for every $1 you spend on other eligible grocery stores, dining, eligible entertainment purchases and eligible daily transit options (including rideshares, buses, subways taxis and more)†
- Plus earn 1 Scene+™ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases†
- Earn additional benefits + up to 4x Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia†
Insurance
Coverage
Travel Medical Insurance (64 & under)
$2M/insured up to 25 daysTravel Medical Insurance (65 to 75)
$2M/insured up to 3 daysTrip Cancellation
$1,500/person, $10,000/tripTrip Interruption
$2,500/person, $10,000/tripFlight Delay
$500/person after 4 hoursLost or Stolen Baggage
$1,000Baggage Delay
$1,000Common Carrier Travel Accident Insurance
$500,000/insured, $1M combinedCar Rental Damage & Theft
$65,000 up to 48 daysHotel Burglary Insurance
$1,000Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 year
Benefits
Details
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Avoid the usual 2.5% forex fees on your purchases when you travel outside of CanadaAirport Lounge - Dragon Pass
6 Free complimentary visitsGas Discount2
Get up to 10¢/L in value on fuel purchases at Shell stationsStatus lift
Avis® Preferred Plus membershipConcierge Services
Discount**
Yearly GigSky 1GB/15-Day plan, 20% off future purchases, and 10GB of global data for 15 days with Travel EssentialsVisa Infinite Exclusive Benefits
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
$60,000 personal or $100,000 household
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card earns its top travel ranking by combining strong travel-focused rewards with features that meaningfully reduce the cost and friction of travelling. One of its standout advantages is no foreign transaction fees, helping Canadians avoid unnecessary charges when spending abroad. This makes it especially valuable for frequent international travelers and anyone who regularly makes purchases in foreign currencies.
Beyond savings, the card enhances the travel experience through complimentary lounge access, allowing cardholders to relax before flights rather than wait in crowded terminals. When paired with solid travel insurance coverage and broad global acceptance, the Passport Visa Infinite + delivers a well-rounded travel package that justifies its place as the best overall travel credit card of 2026.
Overall Starter Credit Card Winner: Tangerine Money-Back Mastercard
on Tangerine's website
Welcome Bonus
10% Cash Back (up to $100 value) + 1.95% balance transfer promo rate for 6 months
Annual Fee
$0
Interest Rates
20.95%* / 22.95%*
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.4/5
While we think Tangerine isn't the best single credit card to own, it's still a valuable card to have in your arsenal for maximizing your rewards. It offers one of the highest cashback rates for pharmacy and recurring bill payments, areas where your other credit cards might not provide significant rewards. This card only requires a Fair credit score, making it an excellent choice for people who don't have a high credit score yet.
Awards & Recognition

Best Starter Credit Card
2026
Pros
- Customizable cashback
- Unique categories available
- High recurring transaction optimization
- High pharmacy purchase optimization
- Bonus category available
- No annual fee
Cons
- Basic insurance
- Low base earn rate
Rewards
- 2% Money-Back Rewards on your choice of two categories from the 13 offered by Tangerine (Grocery, Restaurants, Gas, Entertainment, Furniture, Hotel-Motel, Drug Store, Reccurring Bill Payments, Home Improvement, Public Transportation and Parking and more). Change them up every 90 days to match your spending habits.
- Have your Money-Back Rewards deposited into a Tangerine Savings Account and get a third 2% Money-Back Category.
- 0.5% cashback on all other credit card purchases.
Insurance
Coverage
Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
Up to a year
Eligibility
Credit Score
FairAnnual Income
$12,000 personal
The Tangerine Money-Back Mastercard earns top marks as the best starter credit card due to its simplicity and transparency. It offers solid cash back in everyday spending categories and allows cardholders to tailor rewards to their personal habits. This customization makes it especially appealing for those new to credit cards.
With no annual fee and a low barrier to entry, this card helps Canadians build credit while still earning meaningful rewards. The intuitive digital experience and strong customer support further reinforce its position as the best first credit card for 2026.
Overall Balance Transfer Credit Card Winner: MBNA True Line Mastercard
Our choice for: Balance transfer and interest savings
on MBNA's website
Welcome Bonus
0% rate on balance transfers for 12 months (3% fee applies). Not available for residents of Quebec.†
Rewards Rate
0%
Annual Fee
$0
Interest Rates
12.99%* / 24.99%*
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
5/5
Voted the Best Balance Transfer Credit Card by FinlyWealth, the MBNA True Line offers a 0 percent introductory balance transfer rate, a feature that very few credit cards in Canada provide, along with a very competitive transfer fee. Beyond the promotional period, it continues to stand out with one of the lowest ongoing purchase interest rates in Canada. With no annual fee, this card is an excellent choice for Canadians looking to reduce interest costs.
Awards & Recognition

Best Balance Transfer Credit Card
2026
Pros
- No annual fee
- Balance transfer intro offer
- Low purchase interest rates
- Credit transfers
- Fraud protection
- Car rental discounts
Cons
- Flat transfer fee
- No rewards
Rewards
- No rewards earned on purchases.
- Standard Annual Interest Rates of 12.99% on eligible purchases, 17.99% on balance transfers✪, and 24.99% on cash advances.
- You could get a 0% promotional annual interest rate (“AIR”)† for 12 months on balance transfers✪ completed within 90 days of account opening, with a 3% transfer fee. This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
- Use available credit on your credit card to transfer funds right to your chequing account.
- Around-the-clock fraud protection.
Benefits
Details
Car Rental Discount
10% off base rate of Avis Rent A Car and Budget Rent A Car in Canada and US and 5% internationally
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
The MBNA True Line Mastercard is the standout choice for Canadians looking to manage or reduce existing credit card debt. It offers one of the most competitive balance transfer experiences on the market, allowing cardholders to focus on repayment rather than high interest costs.
In addition to balance transfers, the card keeps long-term costs low with a consistently low interest rate. Its straightforward structure, minimal fees, and strong reputation make it a reliable tool for financial recovery and responsible credit use.
Overall Travel Rewards Credit Card Winner: American Express Cobalt Card
Our choice for: Best travel points earning credit card in Canada
Welcome Bonus
Up to 15,000 Membership Rewards® points
Annual Fee
$191.88⁕
$15.99 Paid Monthly
⁕ For Quebec, $191.88/year
Interest Rates
21.99%* / 21.99%*
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.9/5
This card was voted one of the Best Credit Card in Canada by FinlyWealth. The rewards earned on this card for a person with average spending exceed those of other credit cards in Canada by a huge margin! In addition, this card has a good benefits coverage, a flexible amex cobalt bonus points redemption program (1:1 transfer to Aeroplan® or Avios), making it the best candidate to become the main credit card for the majority of people.
Awards & Recognition

Best Travel Rewards Credit Card
2026
Pros
- Impressive optimization
- 1:1 Aeroplan point transfer
- Generous welcome bonus
- Flexible high value redemptions
- Comprehensive coverage
- Highly ranked
- Instant decision. No credit impact.
Cons
- Limited acceptance
- Lacks valuable coverage categories
Rewards
- 5x points per $1 spent on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery (up to 12,500 points per month)
- 3x points per $1 spent on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada
- 2x points per $1 spent on eligible gas, transit & ride share in Canada
- 1x point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Insurance
Coverage
Travel Medical Insurance (64 & under)
15 days, up to $5M (if under age 65)Flight Delay
$500Baggage Delay
$500Hotel Burglary Insurance
$500Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500Common Carrier Travel Accident Insurance
$250,000Car Rental Damage & Theft
yesMobile Device Insurance
$1,000Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 year
Benefits
Details

Amex Experiences™
Access Front Of The Line® Amex Presale & Reserved Tickets to some of your favourite concerts and theatre performances and special offers and events curated for Cardmembers with Amex Experiences™
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
The American Express Cobalt Card continues to dominate the travel rewards category by excelling at everyday spending. It earns elevated rewards in popular categories like dining and groceries, making it easy to accumulate points quickly without changing spending habits.
Those points convert smoothly into travel value, offering flexibility across flights, hotels, and transfers. Combined with a strong welcome offer and premium Amex customer service, the Cobalt Card remains one of the most powerful travel rewards cards available to Canadians in 2026.
Overall Cashback Credit Card Winner: Neo World Elite Mastercard – Gas & Grocery
Our choice for: High cash back on groceries & gas
on Neo Financial's website
Finly Special Offer
Welcome Bonus
$0 First-Year Annual Fee and $100 Welcome Bonus
Annual Fee
$149 $0
Interest Rates
19.99% - 26.99%□ / 22.99% - 28.99%
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.6/5
This card offers some of the highest cash back rates in Canada for gas, groceries, and recurring purchases, which is pretty hard to beat. While the cash back rates are very high, you need to mind the spend caps set for each category to see if your earning potential is really that high compared to most other credit cards. However, if you're the average person whose spending is generally below $12k per year in groceries, $6k per year in recurring bills and $12k per year in gas, then you'll be doing pretty well, especially with the great insurance and benefit offers.
Awards & Recognition

Best Cash Back Credit Card
2026
Pros
- High cashback rates
- Premium insurance coverage
- Airport lounge membership
- Boosted partner cashback
- Instant approval and access
Cons
- High income requirements
- Spending caps
- Annual fee
Rewards
- 5% cash back on grocery purchases up to $1,000 spending per month
- 4% cash back on recurring purchases up to $500 spending per month
- 3% cash back on gas purchases up to $1,000 spending per month
- 1% cash back on all other purchases with no spending caps
- Up to 15% boosted cashback at thousands of partners across Canada - on top of base cashback rates
Insurance
Coverage
Travel Medical Insurance (64 & under)
Up to $1,000,000Trip Cancellation
$1,000Trip Interruption
$1,000Flight Delay
$500Baggage Delay
$1,000Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1,000Car Rental Accident
$100,000 for cardholder, up to $10,000 per Spouse or Dependent ChildCar Rental Damage & Theft
YesCar Rental Personal Effects
$1,000Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 yearLost or Stolen Baggage
$1,000Mastercard Zero Liability Protection
Yes
Benefits
Details
Airport Lounge - Dragon Pass
Pass only - pay $32 USD per visitNo Foreign Transaction Fees1
You can get all FX fees rebated up to $10K spending per month with a Neo Grow membership ($12.99/month cost or $0 with $20K across your Neo accounts)World Mastercard Benefits
Including discounting with participating partners and DragonPass airport lounge access.
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
$80,000 personal or $150,000 household
The Neo World Elite Mastercard – Gas & Grocery stands out in the cashback category thanks to its high fixed earning rates on everyday categories such as groceries, recurring bills, and general purchases. These baseline rewards are already competitive on their own, making the card rewarding even without any extra effort from cardholders.
What truly differentiates Neo is its stackable merchant rewards, where select retailers offer additional cashback on top of the fixed categories. This combination of guaranteed earnings plus targeted merchant bonuses creates one of the highest cashback ceilings in Canada, especially for users who shop strategically within the Neo ecosystem.
Overall Low interest Credit Card Winner: RBC Visa Classic Low Rate Option
on RBC's website
Welcome Bonus
Enjoy a 0.99% introductory interest rate for the first 10 months on balance transfers^ and no annual fee for the first year*. Apply by November 4 2026.
Rewards Rate
N/A
Annual Fee
$20 $0
Interest Rates
12.99% / 14.99%
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.8/5
A low-interest credit card in case you want to carry a balance every month. This card provides no rewards on purchases, however comes with a relatively lower interest rate compared to many other credit cards, so if you're unable to pay your balance in full every month, this card will save you a lot of money in interest payments.
Awards & Recognition

Best Low Interest Credit Card
2026
Pros
- Low annual fee
- Lower interest rates
- Low interest welcome bonus
- first-year fee rebate
Cons
- No rewards
Rewards
- Get a low, fixed annual interest rate of 12.99% on purchases and 14.99% on cash advances including balance transfers1.
- Your RBC Visa Classic Low Rate Option card includes purchase security and extended warranty insurance coverage4.
- Get special partner offers from brands like Petro Canada, Rexall and DoorDash.
Insurance
Coverage
Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
Doubled Up to 1 year
Benefits
Details
Extra points
50 Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at RexallGas Discount
save 3¢/L on fuel and always earn 20% more Petro-Points at Petro-Canada and 20% more Avion points at Petro-CanadaDiscount
Get a 6-month complimentary DashPass subscription — a value of almost $60. Plus, enjoy unlimited deliveries when $0 delivery fees on orders of $15 or more when you pay with your eligible RBC credit card.
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
The RBC Visa Classic Low Rate Option earns its award by offering consistently low interest across both purchases and cash advances, a feature that is uncommon among credit cards. This makes it particularly useful for Canadians who may occasionally rely on cash access without wanting to incur excessive interest costs.
By focusing on affordability rather than rewards, this card provides predictable and manageable borrowing costs. For cardholders prioritizing interest savings and financial control over points or perks, it remains the strongest low-interest option in 2026.
Overall Dining Cashback Credit Card Winner: Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa Card
on Simplii Financial™'s website
Welcome Bonus
20% cashback† up to $500 in spending
Annual Fee
$0
Interest Rates
20.99%* / 22.99%*
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.3/5
If you dine out a lot and don't want to pay an annual fee for your credit card, the Simplii Financial™ Cash Back Visa* Card will undoubtedly be one of your best friends with its 4% cashback. Additionally, the card offers a decent cashback rate (1.5%) for gas, pharmacy, and groceries, making it one of the best no-annual-fee cashback credit cards in Canada. However, there are limits on how much you can earn in these categories. Therefore, you need to be careful not to exceed those limits; otherwise, your cashback rate will drop to 0.5% after those spending limits are reached.
Awards & Recognition

Best Dining Cash Back Credit Card
2026
Pros
- High restaurant optimization
- Decent cashback rates
- No annual fee
Cons
- Basic insurance
- No benefits
- Capped rewards
Rewards
- 4% cash back on eligible restaurant, bar, and coffee shop purchases up to $5,000 spent per year†
- 1.5% cash back on gas, groceries, drugstore, and pre-authorized payments up to $15,000 spent per year†
- 0.5% cashback on all other purchases†
Insurance
Coverage
Purchase Protection
Up to 90 daysExtended Warranty
Up to 1 year
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
$15,000 household
The Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa Card earns the Best Dining Cashback award thanks to its strong cashback structure focused on restaurant and food delivery spending. Dining is a major expense category for many Canadians, and this card consistently rewards those purchases without requiring an annual fee.
Beyond dining, the card keeps things simple with straightforward cashback and no complicated redemption process. For Canadians who want to earn more on meals while keeping costs low, the Simplii Cash Back Visa is the top dining-focused choice of 2026.
Best No Annual Fee Cashback Credit Card Winner: Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard
Our choice for: Flat cash back rate with some travel perks
on Rogers Bank's website
Welcome Bonus
Welcome Bonus varies
Annual Fee
$0
Interest Rates
21.99% - 25.99%* / 22.99% - 27.99%*
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.5/5
This card is one of the best in Canada, especially if you have 1 qualifying service with Rogers, Fido, Shaw or Comwave. With a qualifying service, you can effectively receive up to 2% cashback rate, which competitive against other no-fee contenders. Additionally, for a no-fee card, you gain access to an extensive list of travel benefits, many of which are typically offered only with cards that have annual fees. Therefore, we recommend this card to anyone who meets the income requirements, even if you are not a Rogers customer!
Awards & Recognition

Best No Fee Cash Back Credit Card
2026
Pros
- Top no-fee contender
- Member earning boosts
- USD optimization
- Comprehensive coverage
- Airport lounge membership
- Roam Like Home days
Cons
- High income requirements
- Annual spending caps
Rewards
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible non-U.S. dollar purchases if you have 1 qualifying service with Rogers, Fido, Shaw or Comwave. Otherwise, earn 1.5% cash back on eligible non-U.S. dollar purchases.
- Plus, earn up to 3% cash back on eligible U.S. dollar purchases.
Insurance
Coverage
Travel Medical Insurance (64 & under)
Up to 10 daysTravel Medical Insurance (65 to 75)
Up to 3 daysTrip Cancellation
$1,000/person, $5,000 maximumTrip Interruption
$1,000/person, $5,000 maximumCar Rental Damage & Theft
31 days, $65,000 car MSRPPurchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 year
Benefits
Details
Airport Lounge - Dragon Pass
Discounted access to over 1300 airport lounges with Mastercard Travel Pass. Pass only, complimentary visits not included.Roam Like Home Days
Get 5 Roam Like Home days at no cost, every year, with an eligible Rogers mobile plan.
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
$80,000 personal or $150,000 household
The Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard stands out as the best no annual fee cashback credit card by combining premium-level earning potential with zero annual cost. It delivers strong rewards on everyday purchases, making it an attractive option for Canadians who want cashback without committing to a paid card.
The card is particularly compelling for those who spend within the Rogers ecosystem. When factoring in insurance coverage and overall value, it proves that a no-fee card can still compete with premium cashback options in 2026.
Overall Aeroplan Credit Card Winner: TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card
on TD's website
Welcome Bonus
Up to $1,550 in value† including up to 50,000 Aeroplan points† and a first-year Annual Fee rebate.
Annual Fee
$139 $0
Interest Rates
21.99% / 22.99%□
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.5/5
The TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Card* is an excellent choice for frequent Air Canada travelers looking to maximize their rewards with Aeroplan points. With perks like free checked bags, Preferred Pricing, and a first-year fee rebate, it’s ideal for users who value Air Canada-specific benefits. However, the card’s high income requirement and limited non-Air Canada redemption options may not appeal to everyone.
Awards & Recognition

Best Aeroplan Credit Card
2026
Pros
- Decent rewards
- First-year fee rebate
- Comprehensive insurance
- Impressive travel perks
Cons
- Relatively lower reward rates
- Limited airline loyalty
- Annual fee
- Income requirements
Rewards
- Earn 1.5 points† for every $1 spent on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, grocery and direct through Air Canada® purchases (including Air Canada Vacations®) made with your Card.
- Earn 1 point† for every $1 spent on all other Purchases made with your Card
- Earn points twice when you pay with your Card and provide your Aeroplan number at over 150 Aeroplan partner brands and at 200+ online retailers via the Aeroplan eStore (www.aeroplan.com/estore).
- Your Aeroplan Points do not expire as long as you are a TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Cardholder in good standing.
- Earn more at Starbucks: Link your eligible Card to earn more Starbucks Stars at participating Starbucks stores. Conditions apply.
Insurance
Coverage
Travel Medical Insurance (64 & under)†
21 daysTravel Medical Insurance (65 to 75)†
4 daysTrip Cancellation†
$1,500Trip Interruption†
$5,000Flight Delay†
$500Baggage Delay†
$1,000Lost or Stolen Baggage†
$1,000Common Carrier Travel Accident Insurance†
$500,000Car Rental Damage & Theft†
yesHotel Burglary Insurance†
$2,500Purchase Protection†
90 daysExtended Warranty†
1 yearMobile Device Insurance†
$1,000
Benefits
Details
Free first checked bag†
First checked bag is free for primary cardholder on Aircanada flights and up to 8 guestsNexus Program Rebate†
$100 every 4 yearsVisa Infinite Exclusive Benefits†
Concierge Services†
Golf Benefit†
Troon Rewards Golf benefits like discounts at over 95 resorts and courses around the world plus access to select private clubs across the U.SExtra points†
Link your eligible Card to earn more Starbucks Stars at participating Starbucks stores. Conditions apply.Extra points†
Earn points twice at over 150 Aeroplan partner brands and over 200 online retailers through the Aeroplan eStoreStatus lift†
Reach Aeroplan Elite™ Status sooner by earning 1,000 Status Qualifying Miles and one (1) Status Qualifying Segment for every $10,000 of net purchasesCar Rental Discount†
10% off base rate of Avis Rent A Car and Budget Rent A CarTrip and legal Assistance†
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
$60,000 personal or $100,000 household
The TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card continues to lead the Aeroplan category thanks to its strong earning structure and meaningful Air Canada travel perks. Cardholders benefit from advantages such as free checked baggage, which can quickly offset the annual fee for even occasional travelers.
Beyond baggage benefits, the card integrates seamlessly with the Aeroplan program and enhances the overall flying experience with additional airline-related conveniences. Combined with a solid welcome offer and everyday earning potential, it remains the top Aeroplan credit card for Canadians in 2026.
Overall Airline loyalty Credit Card Winner: BMO VIPorter World Elite Mastercard
Our choice for: Premium card for frequent Porter airline travelers
on BMO's website
Welcome Bonus
Get up to 70,000 VIPorter points and a round-trip companion pass.* Plus receive $1,000 in Qualifying Spend.*
Annual Fee
$199 $0
Interest Rates
21.99% / 23.99%□
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.5/5
This is easily the best credit card in Canada for frequent Porter airline (and its partners) travelers. Earning 2x VIPorter points on common everyday purchases like groceries, dining and transportation is a massive benefit, allowing you to rack up points really fast and enjoy travel via Porter and it's airline partners. The premium benefits of this card make your travels smooth as you get priority security screening, early boarding and priority re-accommodation for flight delays, one complimentary checked bag, a carry-on bag with every fare type (including Basic), and complimentary PorterClassic seat selection.
Awards & Recognition

Best Airline Loyalty Credit Card
2026
Pros
- First-year fee rebate
- Generous welcome bonus
- Solid everyday earning opportunities
- Impressive Porter redemptions
- Comprehensive coverage
- Valuable travel perks
Cons
- Higher annual fee
- Companion pass spending requirement
- Limited redemption opportunities
- Spending caps
- High income requirements
Rewards
- Earn 3 VIPorter points for every $1 spent on eligible Porter purchases via flyporter.com (up to $20,000 in spending annually)
- Earn 2 VIPorter point for every $1 spent on eligible gas and transportation purchases (up to $5,000 in spending annually combined)
- Earn 2 VIPorter point for every $1 spent on eligible groceries and dining purchases (up to $10,000 in spending annually combined)
- Earn 2 VIPorter point for every $1 spent on eligible hotel accommodation purchases (up to $5,000 in spending annually)
- Earn 1 VIPorter point for every $1 spent everywhere else
- Primary cardholders will receive an annual companion pass after spending a minimum of $50,000 (less refunds and excluding cash advances, cash-like transactions, interest charges, fees, credit or debit adjustments) within the first 365 days after the account open date. On the anniversary date of your card, the calculation of the purchases will reset to zero and primary cardholders must qualify again for the new annual period.
Insurance
Coverage
Extended Warranty
1 yearPurchase Protection
90 daysTravel Medical Insurance (64 & under)
Up to $5M per insured person, per trip, for 21 days per tripCommon Carrier Travel Accident Insurance
Up to $500,000 per insured personTrip Cancellation
Up to $1,500 per insured person, per trip (maximum of $5,000 per trip for all insured persons combined)Trip Interruption
$2,000 per insured personFlight Delay
Up to a maximum of $500 per trip for all insured persons combinedBaggage Delay
Up to $500 per insured person, to a maximum of $1,000 per trip for all insured persons combined, for the purchase of essential itemsLost or Stolen Baggage
Up to $500 per insured person to a maximum of $1,000 per trip for all insured persons combinedHotel Burglary Insurance
Up to $1,000 per occurrence for all insured persons combinedCar Rental Damage & Theft
Rental period up to 48 days, with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of up to $65,000
Benefits
Details
Airport Lounge - Dragon Pass
Complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass. As a member enjoy lounge access for a fee of just US$32 per person, per visit.*Free first checked bag
1 complimentary checked bag as well as 1 complimentary carry-on bag on all Porter fare types up to 8 companions travelling on the same bookingCompanion Voucher
A round-trip companion pass per yearPriority Travel
Priority check-in, security, and early boarding for up to 8 companions travelling on the same bookingCar Rental Discount
Save up to 20% on National Car Rental®†† and Alamo Rent A Car®†† and up to 5% on Enterprise Rent-A-Car®†† at locations worldwide using the Car Rental Booking toolHotel Booking Discount
Save up to 7% on your Booking.com prepaid hotel or property rental bookings at booking.com/mastercardcanada*Mastercard On-Demand and Subscription Services
Discount
Enjoy six months of Instacart+ and a $10 monthly Instacart credit when you enroll your eligible BMO Credit Card.*
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
$80,000 personal or $150,000 household
The BMO VIPorter World Elite Mastercard earns its award by delivering airline-specific benefits that are genuinely valuable for Porter Airlines flyers. Cardholders enjoy perks such as priority services and enhanced travel comfort, making frequent trips smoother and more enjoyable.
In addition to these benefits, the card earns rewards directly tied to Porter flights, ensuring loyalty is consistently rewarded. For Canadians who regularly fly with Porter and want perks that go beyond points alone, this card offers the most compelling airline-aligned value in 2026.
Overall Secured Credit Card Winner: Secured Neo World Mastercard – Gas & Grocery
Our choice for: Guaranteed approval and earning cashback
on Neo Financial's website
Welcome Bonus
$25 bonus upon approval for new clients
Annual Fee
$119.88
$9.99 Paid Monthly
Interest Rates
19.99% - 29.99%□ / 22.99% - 31.99%□
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.5/5
If you have a poor credit score and are looking to rebuild it with a secured card, then the Neo Financial Secured Credit Card is the best card to go for. This card offers so much more compared to other secured credit cards on the market, including no monthly fees, a low deposit amount needed to get started, and it is the only credit card that offers some rewards on your purchases!
Awards & Recognition

Best Secured Credit Card
2026
Pros
- Low minimum deposit
- High partner cashback rates
- Instant approval
- Credit-building tools
- No income requirements
- No credit score requirements
Cons
- Potentially high interest rates
- Monthly fee
Rewards
- Up to 15% cash back at thousands of partners across Canada
Eligibility
Credit Score
PoorAnnual Income
N/A
The Secured Neo World Mastercard – Gas & Grocery earns its award by offering one of the most user-friendly secured credit experiences in Canada. It helps individuals build or rebuild credit while still accessing cashback opportunities, which is rare in this category.
The card’s modern app, transparency, and flexibility make it far more engaging than traditional secured cards. For Canadians focused on improving credit without sacrificing rewards, Neo leads the way in 2026.
Overall Lounge Access Credit Card Winner: American Express Platinum Card
Our choice for: Travel Perks, Luxurious Travel, and Unlimited Lounge Access
Welcome Bonus
Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points
Annual Fee
$799
Interest Rates
21.99% - 30%* / N/A*
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.6/5
If you're a frequent traveler, the Platinum card is an excellent choice. It's highly recommended for its extensive travel benefits, including unlimited lounge access for you and a guest at the American Express Lounge collection, making it the best card for lounge access in Canada. The card also offers unique perks not commonly found with other Canadian cards, such as status upgrades at Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton, dining and travel credits, concierge service, airport benefits, Nexus application reimbursement, and more. These benefits can more than offset the annual fee. However, if you don't travel often or are mainly looking for a card that maximizes rewards, this card may not be the best option for you.
Awards & Recognition

Best Lounge Access Credit Card
2026
Pros
- Most premium perks
- Dining and travel credits
- Unlimited airport lounge access
- Multiple redemption options
- Comprehensive coverage
- Luxurious metal card
- Instant decision. No credit impact.
Cons
- High annual fee
- Limited acceptance
- Benefit limitations
Rewards
- 2x points per $1 spent on eligible dining & food delivery purchases (restaurant, fast food, coffee shop, food delivery)
- 2x points per $1 spent on eligible travel purchases (flights, hotels, tours and more)
- 1x point per $1 spent for all other purchases
Insurance
Coverage
Travel Medical Insurance (64 & under)
15 daysTrip Cancellation
$2,500Trip Interruption
$2,500Flight Delay
$1,000Baggage Delay
$1,000Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1000Lost or Stolen Baggage
$1,000Common Carrier Travel Accident Insurance
$500,000Car Rental Damage & Theft
YesPurchase Protection
120 daysExtended Warranty
1 year
Benefits
Details
Airport Lounge - American Express Global Lounge
Take full advantage of The American Express Global Lounge CollectionTM which unlocks access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience. Terms and Conditions applyTravel Credit
$200Dining Credit
$200 at Select RestaurantsNexus Program Rebate
$100 statement credit every 4 yearsComplimentary Hotel Benefits
Enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average value of $550 USD at over 1,600 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels + ResortsStatus lift
Upgrade to Hilton Honors Gold StatusStatus lift
Upgrade to Marriott BonvoyTM Gold Elite statusPriority Travel
At Toronto Pearson Airport get Priority Security lane, Complimentary valet and 15% discount at the Express Park and daily parkConcierge Services
Trip and legal Assistance

American Express® Experiences
Extra points
Earn 2 points on Amex Travel Online purchases and extra points on American Express offers
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
The American Express Platinum Card remains the undisputed leader in lounge access. It provides entry to an extensive global lounge network, making airport travel significantly more comfortable and consistent.
Beyond lounges, the card offers premium travel perks, strong insurance, and elite customer service. While it carries a high annual fee, the value delivered to frequent travelers justifies its position as the best luxury travel card in Canada.
Overall Gas Credit Card Winner: SimplyCash Preferred Card from American Express
Our choice for: Highest cash back for everyday spending
Welcome Bonus
Up to $250 ($200 in first year)
Annual Fee
$119.88⁕
$9.99 Paid Monthly
⁕ For Quebec, $119/year
Interest Rates
21.99%* / 21.99%*
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.6/5
The Simply Cash Preferred is one of the best cashback credit cards in Canada. The base cashback rate of 2% is great for all purchases, but the 4% on groceries and gas, which are two of the highest expenses for most people is the cherry on top of their great cashback program.
Awards & Recognition

Best Gas Credit Card
2026
Pros
- High cashback rates
- Solid base rate
- Comprehensive insurance
- Instant decision. No credit impact.
Cons
- Annual cashback redemptions
- Lower acceptance
- Annual fee
Rewards
- 4% cash back on eligible gas station purchases in Canada
- 4% cash back on eligible grocery purchases in Canada (up to $1,200 cash back annually)
- 2% cash back on all other eligible purchases
Insurance
Coverage
Travel Medical Insurance (64 & under)
$5M/insured PersonFlight Delay
$500Baggage Delay
$500Hotel Burglary Insurance
$500Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500Common Carrier Travel Accident Insurance
$100,000Car Rental Damage & Theft
$85K up to 48 daysMobile Device Insurance
$1,000Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 year
Benefits
Details

Amex Experiences™
Access events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with Amex Experiences™
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
The SimplyCash Preferred Card from American Express earns top recognition for gas spending due to its strong cashback structure on fuel purchases. It delivers consistent value without complicated redemption rules.
Paired with a solid welcome offer and Amex’s trusted service, this card is ideal for commuters and road-trippers alike. For Canadians looking to maximize savings at the pump, it’s the best option in 2026.
Overall Roadside Assistance Card Credit Card Winner: BMO CashBack World Elite Mastercard
on BMO's website
Welcome Bonus
Get up to $650 in value*
Annual Fee
$139 $0
Interest Rates
21.99% / 23.99%□
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
4.1/5
If you're seeking a cashback credit card, the BMO CashBack® World Elite® Mastercard® stands out for its excellent balance between rewards and benefits. It offers a robust rewards program and a comprehensive benefits list, making it a solid choice. The high first-year value is enhanced by the annual fee waiver, and those with a BMO Premium Chequing Account can enjoy continued fee waivers. While it's highly ranked for rewards alone, it may not be the absolute top choice if benefits are less important to you.
Awards & Recognition

Best Roadside Assistance Card Credit Card
2026
Pros
- Impressive cashback rates
- Rare roadside assistance
- Comprehensive insurance and benefits
- High first-year value
Cons
- Lacks restaurant optimization
- Low monthly cashback caps
Rewards
- 5% cash back on groceries (capped at $500 spending per statement, maximum of $25 in cashback per statement cycle)*
- 4% cash back on daily transit (capped at $300 spending per statement, maximum of $12 in cashback per statement cycle)*
- 3% cash back on gas (capped at $300 spending per statement, maximum of $9 in cashback per statement cycle)*
- 2% cash back on recurring payments (capped at $500 spending per statement, maximum of $10 in cashback per statement cycle)*
- 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases*
Insurance
Coverage
Travel Medical Insurance (64 & under)
$5M up to 8 days per covered person*Common Carrier Travel Accident Insurance
$500,000Flight Delay
$500 After 4 hours delay*Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500/person, $1,000 maximum*Baggage Delay
$500/person, $1,000 maximum After 6 hours*Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1,000Car Rental Damage & Theft
$65K MSRP up to 48 days*Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 year
Benefits
Details
Airport Lounge - Dragon Pass
Complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass. As a member enjoy lounge access for a fee of just US$32 per person, per visit.*Roadside Assistance
Complimentary Roadside Assistance Program*; Including battery boosts, flat-tire change, lockout service and towing – a $75/year value.*Car Rental Discount
Save up to 20% on National Car Rental® and Alamo Rent A Car® and up to 5% on Enterprise Rent-A-Car® at locations worldwide using the Car Rental Booking tool.*Discount
Enjoy six months of Instacart+ and a $10 monthly Instacart credit when you enroll your eligible BMO Credit Card.*
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
$80,000 personal or $150,000 household
The BMO CashBack World Elite Mastercard wins this category by combining cashback rewards with one of the most valuable roadside assistance programs available on a credit card. This makes it especially appealing for drivers who want peace of mind year-round.
In addition to roadside coverage, the card offers strong cashback earning and comprehensive insurance benefits. For Canadians who spend a lot of time on the road, it delivers outstanding all-around value.
Overall Business Credit Card Winner: Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Business Card
Our choice for: Premium Travel Perks and No FX Fees
on Scotiabank's website
Welcome Bonus
Earn up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points [1]
Annual Fee
$199
Interest Rates
19.99% / 22.99%
RECOMMENDED CREDIT SCORE
5/5
The standout feature is simple: no foreign transaction fees. For any business that regularly pays suppliers abroad, books international travel, or has USD expenses, this saves 2.5% on every foreign purchase — savings that add up fast. On top of that, you earn a flat 1.5 Scene+ points per dollar on everything with no caps or categories. The $199 fee is higher than average, but you get six airport lounge visits per year, solid travel insurance, and a 40,000-point welcome bonus. If your business spending is mostly domestic and you don’t travel, the fee is hard to justify. But for internationally active businesses, this is one of the best options in Canada.
Awards & Recognition

Best Business Credit Card
2026
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- Strong rewards
- Generous welcome bonus
- Airport lounge access
- Shell Fuel Savings
- Comprehensive travel coverage
- Flexible redemptions
- First additional card free
- Visa Infinite benefits
Cons
- Higher annual fee
- Welcome bonus spending requirements
- High income requirement
- Additional card fees
Rewards
- Earn 1.5X the Scene+TM‡ points for every $1 spent2 on purchases for your business
- Enjoy no Foreign Transaction Fees3 whether you make purchases online or outside of Canada
Insurance
Coverage
Travel Medical Insurance (64 & under)
$2M/insured up to 25 daysTravel Medical Insurance (65 to 75)
$2M/insured up to 10 daysTrip Cancellation
$2,500/person, $10,000/tripTrip Interruption
$2,500/person, $10,000/tripFlight Delay
$500/person after 4 hoursLost or Stolen Baggage
$1,000Baggage Delay
$1,000Common Carrier Travel Accident Insurance
$500,000/insured, $1M combinedCar Rental Damage & Theft
$65,000 up to 48 daysHotel Burglary Insurance
$1,000Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 year
Benefits
Details
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Avoid the usual 2.5% forex fees on your purchases when you travel outside of CanadaAirport Lounge - Dragon Pass
6 Free complimentary visitsGas Discount4
Get up to 10¢/L in value with Shell Go+Status lift
Avis® Preferred Plus membershipConcierge Services
Visa Infinite Exclusive Benefits
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
$60,000 personal or $100,000 household
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Business Card earns the Best Business Credit Card award by delivering strong value for business owners who travel or transact internationally. With no foreign transaction fees, it helps reduce unnecessary costs on cross-border spending, making it especially useful for companies with global suppliers or frequent travel needs.
In addition to cost savings, the card includes lounge access and business-focused travel benefits that enhance productivity on the road. When paired with flexible rewards and travel insurance coverage, it offers a well-balanced solution for small business owners looking to manage expenses while maximizing value in 2026.
Banking Winners of 2026
Overall No Fee Chequing Account: Simplii Financial No Fee Chequing Account
Best for: Great signup bonus and no fee everyday banking with access to CIBC ATMs
on Simplii Financial™'s website
Welcome Bonus
Earn $350. Conditions apply.*
Regular Interest
Up to 0.01%
Monthly Fee
$0
Account Type
Chequing • Personal
- Earn $350 when you become a new client, open a No Fee Chequing Account, and set up an eligible deposit of at least $100 for 4 straight months.*
- Offer ends January 31, 2027*
Save over $200/year with free daily banking.
It's simple. With a no-fee chequing account, you get free daily banking. Life’s always busy and you work hard every day for your money – it’s time for your bank account to do the same.
Product Highlights:
- Free daily banking – Enjoy unlimited debit purchases, bill payments and withdrawals.
- Skip the monthly fees - No monthly fees with no minimum balance
- Free access to over 3,400 CIBC ATMs across Canada
- Unlimited Interac e-Transfer® and debit transactions
- Earn interest on every dollar
Additional Features:
- 24/7 access to bank account via mobile app and online banking
- Setting up direct payroll deposits, account-to-account transfers and pre-authorized bill payments is easy. Overdraft Protection (optional extra): Fixed interest rate of 19.00% will be applied on overdraft balances, in addition to a monthly charge when ODP is used
- Send Digital Gift Cards
Account Fees
Monthly Fee
$0
eStatement
Included
Transactions
Transactions
Unlimited free
Interac e-Transfers
Unlimited free
ATM Fees
Own Network
$0
Canadian ATMs
$1.5
USA
$3
International
$3
International & Currency
Foreign Currency Conversion
2.5%
Other Fees
NSF (Non-sufficient Funds)
$10
Overdraft Interest
19% annually (if used)
Bank Draft
$7.5
The Simplii Financial No-Fee Chequing Account earns this award by delivering a truly fee-free everyday banking experience without compromising functionality. It covers the essentials Canadians expect from a primary chequing account, including everyday transactions, bill payments, and digital banking tools, all without monthly maintenance fees.
What sets Simplii apart is how well it balances cost savings with usability. Backed by a major Canadian bank, it offers reliable access, strong online and mobile banking, and broad ATM availability.
Overall savings Account: EQ Notice Savings Account

4.9 Our rating
on EQ Bank's website
Welcome Bonus
N/A
Regular Interest
Up to 2.75%
Monthly Fee
$0
Account Type
Savings • Personal
Key Highlights:
- Earns up to 2.75%* interest
- No monthly fees and no minimum balance
- CDIC eligibility† for deposits (up to $100,000 per eligible category)
- Earn up to 7x** more than with other banks.
Is our Notice Savings Account right for you?
It’s right for you if:
- You want to save longer to receive higher interest.
- You’re able to wait the 10- or 30-day notice period to access your funds.
- You want free unlimited deposits and withdrawals.
- You’re looking for an account that’s eligible for CDIC protection.
- You're looking for a completely digital banking experience.
It’s not right for you if:
- You’re looking to make everyday banking transactions, such as direct deposits, Interac e-Transfers®, and bill payments.
- You need instant access to your funds.
Account Fees
Monthly Fee
$0
eStatement
Included
Transactions
Transactions
Unlimited free
Interac e-Transfers
Unlimited free
The EQ Notice Savings Account wins this category by offering a strong balance between higher interest potential and flexibility. By rewarding savers who can plan withdrawals in advance, it provides an effective way to grow savings faster than traditional accounts while still keeping funds accessible when needed.
Unlike many savings products that lock money away, this account allows Canadians to choose how they manage access while benefiting from competitive returns. Combined with EQ Bank’s straightforward digital experience and lack of unnecessary fees, the Notice Savings Account is the top choice for disciplined savers in 2026.
About the author

Kevin Shahnazari
Co-founder
Kevin started FinlyWealth and juggles a bit of everything—digging into data, running our marketing, and keeping the finances on track. Before this, he spent years as a data scientist at tech companies...
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Abid Salahi
Co-founder
Abid leads the design and engineering of the FinlyWealth website, making sure everything runs smoothly and looks great. He’s a seasoned software engineer who follows best practices and designs interfa...
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