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Natasha

Natasha Etzel

Natasha is a financial writer specializing in credit cards and credit card rewards. Her work has appeared in numerous publications, including NerdWallet, The Motley Fool, and Fast Company.

Posts by Natasha Etzel

A Guide to Chase Ultimate Rewards®

The Chase Ultimate Rewards® is a rewards program where users can earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points through their Chase credit cards, which can be redeemed in many ways, including for travel or cash back. You can strategically maximize your earnings and get more value from your rewards through bookings made on the Chase Travel℠ and Dining portals.
Read MoreNov 3, 2026
chase rewards

Best Credit Cards for Holiday Shopping: Earn Rewards on Every Purchase

Holiday shopping can be expensive, but the right credit card helps you earn rewards, save on interest, and stretch your budget while you prep for the season.
Read MoreNov 3, 2026
Best Credit Cards for Holiday Shopping: Earn Rewards on Every Purchase

A Guide to Citi ThankYou® Rewards

Learn how to earn, redeem, and get the most value from Citi ThankYou® Rewards points — from everyday cash back to high-value airline and hotel transfers.
Read MoreOct 29, 2026
citi rewards

More Than Half of Struggling Business Owners Dipped Into Personal Funds in 2025: Here's How to Avoid That

Using personal funds for business expenses is the most common response to a cash crunch: 54% of employer firms facing financial challenges did it, per the Fed's 2025 Small Business Credit Survey. Separating your accounts, cutting costs and invoicing faster close most gaps without debt. Borrow only to bridge a timing gap backed by a signed contract.
Read MoreOct 29, 2026
A small business owner learning about how to avoid using personal savings for her business expenses.

Understanding Cash Back Categories: How to Optimize Your Spending

Cash back credit cards allow you to earn rewards on purchases, typically through flat-rate or bonus categories like dining, groceries, and gas. Maximizing rewards depends on understanding your spending habits and choosing the right card. Consider sign-up bonuses, caps, and redemption options to boost earnings. For more insights, read the full article below.
Read MoreOct 25, 2026
Understanding Cash Back Categories: How to Optimize Your Spending

Your Money, Your Future: Credit Card Trends for 2026 & What They Mean For You

Credit card trends 2026 will likely bring shifting rewards and benefits, more focus on borrowing costs, and wider use of digital payments like wallets and installments. Expect stronger fraud tools, more biometric authentication, and more AI-driven, personalized rewards. The takeaway: track changes, know your APR, and pick payment options that fit your budget.
Read MoreOct 13, 2026
Your Money, Your Future: Credit Card Trends for 2026 & What They Mean For You

American Express® Gold Card vs. American Express Platinum Card®: Which Premium Card Is Worth It?

The right American Express card for you depends entirely on your spending habits and lifestyle.
Read MoreSep 14, 2026
American Express® Gold Card vs. American Express Platinum Card®: Which Premium Card Is Worth It?

Flat-Rate vs. Bonus Category Cards: Which Is Right for You?

Hero stat: Maximizers earn 3%–5% in bonus categories, while flat-rate cards offer a simple 1.5%–2% on everything. Choosing the right one depends entirely on your spending habits.
Read MoreAug 24, 2026
Flat-Rate vs. Bonus Category Cards: Which Is Right for You?

How Your Daily Coffee Run Can Help Pay for Your Next Vacation

Small daily habits like a $7 latte can generate 4,500 points annually—enough to cover baggage fees or airport meals without changing your lifestyle.
Read MoreAug 24, 2026
How Your Daily Coffee Run Can Help Pay for Your Next Vacation

The 2026 Guide to Conquering Credit Card Debt

The average credit card balance rose to $6,768 in late 2025. With interest rates near historic highs, switching to a 0% APR strategy can save the average American over $1,500 in 18 months
Read MoreAug 24, 2026
The 2026 Guide to Conquering Credit Card Debt

Citi Rewards+® Review 2025

The Citi Rewards+® Card, from our partner, is a solid choice for those looking to earn rewards on everyday purchases without paying an annual fee. It’s ideal for those who aren’t big spenders. It earns rewards at an evaluated rate on supermarket and gas station spending. However, the bonus rewards are capped at $6,000 in spending per year.
Read ReviewFeb 10, 2026
citi-rewards-card

Citi Double Cash® Review: Earn 2% Cash Back on Every Purchase

The Citi Double Cash® Card, from our partner, is a cash back rewards card with no annual fee. You can earn an unlimited 2% cash back rewards. You earn 1% cash back when you make a purchase and 1% cash back when you pay off the purchase. You must pay at least the minimum amount due each month to earn rewards with this credit card.
Read ReviewJan 21, 2026
citi-double-cash-card

Citi Strata Premier® Review 2025

Previously known as the Citi Premier, the Citi Strata Premier®, from our partner, has been rebranded and includes new benefits. This rewards credit card has a $95 annual fee and earns bonus rewards in several popular everyday purchase categories — plus, there are no spending caps. New cardholders can earn a generous 60,000-point welcome bonus offer.
Read ReviewNov 6, 2025
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