Credit Cards Articles & Guides

Find Your Perfect Match: A Comprehensive Guide to Bank of America Credit Cards

Cash back cards can be a powerful money tool, or an expensive trap. Before you swipe, it’s worth knowing the hidden perks they offer and the habits that keep rewards working in your favor.

Balance Transfer vs. Personal Loan: Which Is Best for Your Debt?

Jan. 26, 2026

10 min read

Balance Transfer vs. Personal Loan: Which Is Best for Your Debt?

Choose between a balance transfer and personal loan by focusing on total cost, payoff speed, and how predictable you need payments to be. The right option depends on fees, your credit profile, and whether you can avoid adding new card debt.

Are Premium Credit Cards Worth the Fee? A Deep Dive on Benefits You'll Actually Use

Are Premium Credit Cards Worth the Fee? A Deep Dive on Benefits You'll Actually Use

You're considering a premium credit card with an annual fee of $550 or more, but most cardholders only use 30-40% of available benefits.

Can You Deduct Credit Card Interest on Your Taxes? Here’s What to Know

Can You Deduct Credit Card Interest on Your Taxes? Here’s What to Know

Credit card interest feels like it should be a write-off, but tax treatment depends on why you borrowed. This guide breaks down what’s allowed for business spending, what’s off-limits for personal purchases, and how clean records can help you claim any deductible portion.

Credit Card Tips: 10 Ways to Stay on Track for This Year's Money Goals

Credit Card Tips: 10 Ways to Stay on Track for This Year's Money Goals

Credit cards can do more than just facilitate payments—they can be powerful tools for achieving your financial goals, from building credit to saving for a house.

What Charges Can You Put on a Business Credit Card

What Charges Can You Put on a Business Credit Card

Maximize your business credit card's potential with these smart charging guidelines.

5 Types of Credit Cards Small Business Owners Should Get

5 Types of Credit Cards Small Business Owners Should Get

Every financial decision you make as a small business owner shapes your company's future, starting with the credit card you select.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Business Credit Cards

How to Get the Most Out of Your Business Credit Cards

Your business credit cards could be working much harder for your company—here's what most entrepreneurs miss.

Chase Freedom Unlimited vs Wells Fargo Active Cash: Which Cash Back Card Wins for You?

Chase Freedom Unlimited vs Wells Fargo Active Cash: Which Cash Back Card Wins for You?

Choosing the right cash back card can make a real difference in your everyday spending. The Wells Fargo Active Cash® and Chase Freedom Unlimited® both offer strong value, but their reward structures appeal to different types of cardholders. Here’s what to know before you apply.

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

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.

Boost Your Score & Save Money: The Best Time to Pay Your Credit Card

Boost Your Score & Save Money: The Best Time to Pay Your Credit Card

Paying on time matters, but when you pay can shape what gets reported. Paying before your statement closes may lower the balance bureaus see, reduce utilization, and help you avoid fees and extra interest.

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

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.

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.

Citi’s Most Cost-Effective Cards to Maximize Value and Minimize Fees

Citi’s Most Cost-Effective Cards to Maximize Value and Minimize Fees

Overwhelmed by Citi’s long list of credit cards? This guide cuts through the clutter with three standouts that keep costs low and value high. Expect strong rewards where they matter, intro APR breathing room for purchases or balance transfers, and fewer fees quietly reducing what you earn.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®: How Cash Back Works (and the Perks People Miss)

Chase Freedom Unlimited®: How Cash Back Works (and the Perks People Miss)

Cash back cards can be a powerful money tool, or an expensive trap. Before you swipe, it’s worth knowing the hidden perks they offer and the habits that keep rewards working in your favor.

Building Credit Responsibly: Best Practices for Credit Card Use

Building Credit Responsibly: Best Practices for Credit Card Use

Using a credit card responsibly can help build credit, especially for those with limited history. Start with a secured card if needed, keep credit utilization under 30%, and never miss payments. Setting up autopay, avoiding debt, and becoming an authorized user can also boost your score. Credit improvement typically takes 6+ months. Read the full article for expert strategies on building credit.

Credit Card Spending Trends: How Defaults Are Reshaping Consumer Behavior

3 min read

Credit Card Spending Trends: How Defaults Are Reshaping Consumer Behavior

As credit card defaults soar to alarming heights, consumers are scrambling to reinvent their financial playbooks.

APR Confusion? Here’s What Credit Card Companies Don’t Explain

APR Confusion? Here’s What Credit Card Companies Don’t Explain

When you see "18.99% APR" advertised on a credit card, you might think you understand what you're signing up for.

Credit Card Rewards: A Guide

Gone are the days that you whip out cash to pay for everything. Most of us use debit or credit cards to pay for everything from weekly grocery shopping to funding our dream vacation. What if you got a small kickback for every purchase you made though? That’s where reward credit cards come into play and can give you more perks for everyday spending.

Understanding Credit Card Rewards: Points, Miles, and Cash Back Explained

Understanding Credit Card Rewards: Points, Miles, and Cash Back Explained

Credit card rewards typically fall into four main categories: airline miles, hotel points, flexible travel rewards, and cash back, each with different redemption options and value. To maximize rewards, consider your spending habits, compare transfer options, and look for discounted award programs. Read the full article to explore expert tips on getting the best value from your credit card rewards.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Credit Card Rewards

How to Get the Most Out of Your Credit Card Rewards

Credit card rewards can unlock excellent benefits, from free flights to cash back, all with minimal effort on your part.

Unlock Travel Perks: Choosing the Best Airline Credit Card

Unlock Travel Perks: Choosing the Best Airline Credit Card

Wondering which airline credit cards are actually worth it? We break down what makes a card stand out, from rewards and fees to travel perks so you can see which options rise to the top and why they deserve a spot in your wallet.

A Guide to Capital One Miles

Capital One Miles are a flexible rewards currency earned through Capital One travel credit cards, redeemable for travel, gift cards, online shopping, and even cash back. Maximizing their value involves using travel transfer partners, earning bonuses through strategic spending, and pairing a Capital One Miles card with a high-earning cash-back card.

Travel Insurance Through Credit Cards: What You Need to Know

Travel Insurance Through Credit Cards: What You Need to Know

Credit card travel insurance offers financial protection against trip cancellations, delays, lost baggage, rental car damage, and travel accidents when you pay for your trip with an eligible card.

The Ultimate Travel Credit Card Guide

Travel expenses add up quickly. Between flights, accommodations, and transportation, a single trip can cost thousands—but the right credit card can significantly reduce these costs.

Balance Transfer Fees Explained: Are They Worth It?

Balance Transfer Fees Explained: Are They Worth It?

A balance transfer card can save you interest by moving debt to a 0% intro APR card, but fees (3%–5%) add costs. To decide if it’s worth it, compare savings to fees and have a repayment plan. Choosing a low-fee card, negotiating, or transferring less can help. Avoid new debt to make it effective. Read the full article for tips on maximizing savings and avoiding pitfalls.

Unlock Debt Freedom: Your Complete Guide to Smarter Balance Transfers

Unlock Debt Freedom: Your Complete Guide to Smarter Balance Transfers

A balance transfer moves debt from a high-interest card to one with a 0% intro APR, helping you save on interest. To do it, choose a card, check fees, apply, and transfer the balance while creating a repayment plan to avoid interest after the promo period. Avoid new debt on old cards and ensure savings outweigh fees. Read the full article for a step-by-step guide and best practices.

Maximizing Cash Back: Strategies for Using Multiple Cards

Maximizing Cash Back: Strategies for Using Multiple Cards

Using multiple cash back credit cards strategically can help maximize rewards by leveraging different earning rates across various spending categories. However, managing multiple cards requires organization to avoid missed payments, overlapping benefits, and potential debt accumulation.

The Best Credit Cards for Online Shopping to Maximize Rewards & Security

The Best Credit Cards for Online Shopping to Maximize Rewards & Security

Online shopping is part of everyday life, and the right credit card can help you earn more while adding extra protection. Here’s what matters most before you hit “buy.”

5 Hacks to Turn Everyday Spending into $1,000+ in Cash Back Rewards

5 Hacks to Turn Everyday Spending into $1,000+ in Cash Back Rewards

Most Americans spend over $77,000 annually on all household expenses, including essentials like groceries, gas, and utilities.

Can Credit Cards Help During a Recession? Everything You Need to Know

Can Credit Cards Help During a Recession? Everything You Need to Know

While millions of Americans struggle with shrinking budgets during recessions, strategic credit card use can help protect your finances when you need it most.

How to Get Approved for a Credit Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Get Approved for a Credit Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for a credit card can be a straightforward process, but getting approved isn’t always guaranteed.

Can You Have Too Many Credit Cards? Here’s What the Experts Say

Can You Have Too Many Credit Cards? Here’s What the Experts Say

You're wondering if your growing credit card collection has crossed into "too many" territory, but the answer depends more on your management skills than an arbitrary number.

The Secret Perks of Credit Cards You’re Probably Not Using

9 min read

The Secret Perks of Credit Cards You’re Probably Not Using

You're using your credit card for points and cash back, but you may also be overlooking valuable benefits that could save you hundreds of dollars annually.

Is the Apple Card Still Worth It in {year}? Pros, Cons & Better Alternatives

Is the Apple Card Still Worth It in 2026? Pros, Cons & Better Alternatives

You're considering the Apple Card for its sleek design and Apple ecosystem integration, but its 2% cash back on Apple Pay purchases pales compared to cards offering 3-5% in popular categories.

0% APR on Purchases & Balance Transfers: Your Expert Guide to Making Smart Moves

0% APR on Purchases & Balance Transfers: Your Expert Guide to Making Smart Moves

A 0% APR offer can give you a break from high card interest, helping you pay down debt or cover a big purchase without interest for a limited time. The savings only stick if you follow the rules: pay on time, watch for fees, and plan to pay it off before the promo ends.

Fed Rate Cuts & Your Credit Card APR: What You Need to Know

Fed Rate Cuts & Your Credit Card APR: What You Need to Know

The Fed cut rates again. Here’s what it means for your credit card, and how to use it to your advantage.

Your 0% Intro APR Is Ending? Here's Your Action Plan to Save on Interest

Your 0% Intro APR Is Ending? Here's Your Action Plan to Save on Interest

0% intro APR ending soon? Here’s what happens when the promo ends and how to avoid costly interest: confirm your end date, set a payoff target, and choose the best next step, from faster payments to a balance transfer or rate reduction.

Should You Use a Credit Card for Back-to-School Spending? Here's When It Makes Sense

Should You Use a Credit Card for Back-to-School Spending? Here's When It Makes Sense

The back-to-school season can put significant pressure on family budgets, with costs for supplies, clothing, electronics, and activities quickly adding up. Many parents consider using credit cards to manage these expenses.

How to Read Your Credit Card Statement

A credit card statement provides a detailed summary of your spending, payments, fees, interest charges, and rewards during a billing cycle, helping you track your finances and detect potential errors. To learn how to read your statement effectively and avoid costly mistakes, read the full article for expert insights.

The Truth About Minimum Payments—and How They Can Hurt You

The Truth About Minimum Payments—and How They Can Hurt You

Making only the minimum payment on your credit card might seem like a manageable approach to handling debt, especially during financially challenging times.

What Happens If You Don't Pay Your Credit Card on Time

What Happens If You Don't Pay Your Credit Card on Time

Behind every credit card's convenience lies a payment timeline that shouldn't be ignored.

What Happens to Interest Rates During a Recession?

3 min read

What Happens to Interest Rates During a Recession?

When a recession hits, credit card rates can swing dramatically—costing you thousands. Here's what to do.

How to Stack Chase Cards for Maximum Rewards

Jan. 14, 2026

How to Stack Chase Cards for Maximum Rewards

Already carrying more than one Chase card but not sure you’re getting everything out of them? Learn how to stack your cards, move points where they’re worth more, and pick smarter redemptions so everyday spending turns into outsized travel and cash back.

Understanding Cash Back Categories: How to Optimize Your Spending

Jan. 12, 2026

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.

Credit Card Interest Rate Cap: What a 10% Limit Could Mean for You

Jan. 11, 2026

3 min read

Credit Card Interest Rate Cap: What a 10% Limit Could Mean for You

A 10% ceiling on credit card interest is suddenly back in the headlines. Here’s what that kind of cap could mean for your wallet—from how much you pay in interest to your chances of getting approved—and how to stay in control either way.

A Guide to Getting Airport Lounge Access With a Credit Card

Jan. 06, 2026

A Guide to Getting Airport Lounge Access With a Credit Card

Airport lounge access credit cards provide travelers with exclusive perks like complimentary food, drinks, and a quieter space to relax before flights. To choose the best card, consider lounge availability, fees, and travel habits. Read the full article for expert recommendations on maximizing your airport lounge access benefits.

A Guide to American Express Membership Rewards

Jan. 06, 2026

A Guide to American Express Membership Rewards

American Express Membership Rewards lets cardholders earn points for travel, statement credits, gift cards, and more. Maximize rewards with spending multipliers, welcome bonuses, and Amex Offers, or transfer points to travel partners for added value. Choose a card that fits your spending and take advantage of promotions. Want to optimize your rewards? Read the full article for expert tips.

Which Credit Cards Offer Lounge Access Without Flying Business Class?

Jan. 06, 2026