We earn commissions from brands listed on this site, which influences how listings are presented.

Credit Cards Articles & Guides

Learn about how to best utilize your credit card to take back control of your finances and credit score

Sep. 09, 2025

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.

Building Credit Responsibly: Best Practices for Credit Card Use

Sep. 09, 2025

5 min read

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.

Sep. 09, 2025

4 min read

How Can You Build a Credit History?

Your financial future hinges on a credit history that impacts everything from loans to housing—but how do you start from scratch?

Why Was My Credit Card Application Declined?

Sep. 09, 2025

5 min read

Why Was My Credit Card Application Declined?

Credit cards are powerful tools for building credit, managing expenses, and earning rewards.

Sep. 09, 2025

5 min read

How to Do a Balance Transfer

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.

Sep. 09, 2025

3 min read

What is a Credit Builder Credit Card?

Which came first, the chicken or the egg? The logic behind this age-old causality dilemma also applies to the following question: how do you build credit if you have no credit? After all, if you have no credit or bad credit then it’s almost impossible to qualify for a conventional credit card or loan.

What Charges Can You Put on a Business Credit Card

Sep. 09, 2025

5 min read

What Charges Can You Put on a Business Credit Card

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

How to Get the Most Out of Your Business Credit Cards

Sep. 09, 2025

4 min read

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.

Is Credit Card Interest Tax Deductible for a Business?

Sep. 09, 2025

5 min read

Is Credit Card Interest Tax Deductible for a Business?

Are you missing out on tax savings by not deducting your business credit card interest?

5 Types of Credit Cards Small Business Owners Should Get

Sep. 09, 2025

4 min read

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.

Sep. 09, 2025

4 min read

Credit Card Rewards: A Guide

Rare 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.

Sep. 09, 2025

5 min read

What Is a Balance Transfer Credit Card?

Credit card debt can feel overwhelming when most of your monthly payment goes toward interest charges.

Balance Transfer Fees Explained: Are They Worth It?

Sep. 08, 2025

5 min read

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.

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

Sep. 08, 2025

4 min read

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.

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

Aug. 26, 2025

7 min read

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.

Maximizing Cash Back: Strategies for Using Multiple Cards

Aug. 26, 2025

6 min read

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.

Understanding Cash Back Categories: How to Optimize Your Spending

Aug. 26, 2025

6 min read

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.

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

Aug. 26, 2025

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.

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

Aug. 26, 2025

5 min read

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.

A Guide to American Express Membership Rewards

Aug. 25, 2025

4 min read

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.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Credit Card Rewards in 2025

Aug. 25, 2025

4 min read

How to Get the Most Out of Your Credit Card Rewards in 2025

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

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

Aug. 25, 2025

6 min read

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.

Chase vs. Amex: Which Rewards Program Is Actually Worth It in 2025?

Aug. 25, 2025

7 min read

Chase vs. Amex: Which Rewards Program Is Actually Worth It in 2025?

You're choosing between Chase Sapphire and Amex Platinum, but the decision isn't obvious. Chase offers 1 cent per point in cash back versus Amex's 0.6 cents—a 67% difference.

Is the Apple Card Still Worth It in 2025? Pros, Cons & Better Alternatives

Aug. 24, 2025

5 min read

Is the Apple Card Still Worth It in 2025? 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.

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

Aug. 24, 2025

6 min read

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.

Credit Cards vs. Debit Cards: Understanding the Differences in {year}

Aug. 24, 2025

6 min read

Credit Cards vs. Debit Cards: Understanding the Differences in 2025

When it comes to managing your money, choosing between a credit card and a debit card can be confusing.

Study: 76% of Americans With Credit Card Debt Say It’s Almost Entirely Due to Their Own Choices

Aug. 20, 2025

5 min read

Study: 76% of Americans With Credit Card Debt Say It’s Almost Entirely Due to Their Own Choices

Credit cards give you access to borrowed funds beyond the cash you have on hand, giving you flexibility when it comes to making purchases.

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

Aug. 20, 2025

7 min read

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.

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

Aug. 20, 2025

6 min read

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.

What Does the CFPB Closing Mean for Credit Card Owners?

Aug. 20, 2025

3 min read

What Does the CFPB Closing Mean for Credit Card Owners?

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau faces a leadership transition that may affect its credit card regulations.

Credit Card Skimming Is Getting Smarter—Here's How to Stay Safe

Aug. 20, 2025

7 min read

Credit Card Skimming Is Getting Smarter—Here's How to Stay Safe

Credit card skimmers are now nearly invisible, targeting both physical terminals and online payments with wireless technology. Stay safe by using contactless payments, inspecting card readers, and monitoring your accounts regularly.

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

Aug. 20, 2025

4 min read

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.

5 Credit Card Mistakes to Avoid in Your 30s

Aug. 19, 2025

6 min read

5 Credit Card Mistakes to Avoid in Your 30s

Your 30s often bring significant financial transitions—from career advancements and homeownership to growing families and increasing responsibilities.

Aug. 19, 2025

5 min read

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.

A Guide to Getting Airport Lounge Access With a Credit Card

Aug. 19, 2025

4 min read

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.

Travel Insurance Through Credit Cards: What You Need to Know

Aug. 19, 2025

5 min read

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.

Revenge Travel on a Budget: Cards That Help You Fly First Class for (Almost) Free

Aug. 19, 2025

6 min read

Revenge Travel on a Budget: Cards That Help You Fly First Class for (Almost) Free

You're ready to make up for lost travel time, but luxury revenge travel seems financially out of reach at first-class prices of $5,000-15,000 per ticket.

Stop Wasting Your Points: 6 Reward Redemption Mistakes to Avoid in {year}

Aug. 19, 2025

6 min read

Stop Wasting Your Points: 6 Reward Redemption Mistakes to Avoid in 2025

You've worked hard to accumulate credit card points and airline miles, but one bad redemption decision can waste months of earning.

Which Credit Cards Offer Lounge Access Without Flying Business Class?

Aug. 19, 2025

5 min read

Which Credit Cards Offer Lounge Access Without Flying Business Class?

While business class passengers enjoy quiet lounges with free food and comfortable seating, you're stuck at crowded gates paying airport prices.

Aug. 14, 2025

5 min read

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.

Aug. 14, 2025

5 min read

A Guide to Citi ThankYou® Rewards

The Citi ThankYou® Rewards is a high-value credit card rewards program available to eligible Citi credit cardholders. Through this program, you can earn Citi ThankYou® Points when you make purchases with a qualifying Citi credit card. There’s a lot of versatility in how you can redeem your ThankYou® points, including cash back, gift cards, points transfer, and travel bookings.

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

Jul. 22, 2025

7 min read

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.

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

Jul. 20, 2025

5 min read

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 to Interest Rates During a Recession?

Jul. 20, 2025

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.

The Rise of "Buy Now, Pay Later" vs. Credit Cards: What You Should Know

Jun. 26, 2025

4 min read

The Rise of "Buy Now, Pay Later" vs. Credit Cards: What You Should Know

Managing your finances effectively often means navigating various payment options.

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

May. 20, 2025

5 min read

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.

Credit Card Spending Trends: How Defaults Are Reshaping Consumer Behavior in 2025

May. 13, 2025

3 min read

Credit Card Spending Trends: How Defaults Are Reshaping Consumer Behavior in 2025

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

Mar. 24, 2025

4 min read

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.