Advice & Expertise Blog

Credit Cards

  1. Build your Credit with Self.

    Build your Credit with Self.

    Managing finances shouldn’t be difficult, the secured Self Visa® Credit Card** can help you build credit responsibly while also preparing for the future! Here is a closer look into the Self- Credit Builder Account* + Self Visa® Credit Card**.

  2. Take the Extra Step to Build Up Your Credit!

    Take the Extra Step to Build Up Your Credit!

    A typical debit card does not build your credit, does not offer rewards points and has limited bank options and customer service support. But, the Extra Card does! Find out why you should take the Extra step to building up your credit.

  3. Secured Credit Card Season

    Secured Credit Card Season

    Secured cards can be a good option if you have less-than-perfect credit and are looking to build your credit. They can also pave the way for you to access other credit/financial products like mortgages and loans. There are several secured card options out there, find the one that best fits your needs.

  4. GM Offers Rewards Credit Card and Business Card

    GM Offers Rewards Credit Card and Business Card

    General Motors (GM) is an American multinational automotive manufacturing company and currently the largest automaker in the US. GM is most widely known for its four automobile brands: Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac. But did you know they also have their own co-branded credit cards? GM now offers its loyal users the option of a rewards credit card and a business card.

  5. Why You Need a Credit Card After Declaring Bankruptcy

    Why You Need a Credit Card After Declaring Bankruptcy

    When you declare bankruptcy, your credit score and report can be ruined, and it will remain on your credit report for seven to 10 years. However, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with bad credit for a decade. You can start rebuilding your credit right away. Check out these tips to get you back on track.

  6. 4 Ways to Pay Down Debt

    4 Ways to Pay Down Debt

    I'm sure you're probably overwhelmed by now and wondering "where do I even start?" to get rid of that credit card debt. Fortunately, CreditSoup has 4 ways to begin paying down that debt.

  7. Best Credit Cards for 2023

    Best Credit Cards for 2023

    With all the credit card options out out there nowadays, how do you know which one is best for your needs? Luckily for you, we’ve researched and hand selected the best credit cards for your credit and lifestyle needs this year.

  8. Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card Review

    Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card Review

    The Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card can take your savings efforts even further since it gives you cash back on everything you buy — and especially on Amazon.com purchases. Should you sign up? Keep reading to learn how this card works and the pros and cons of using it for all your purchases.

  9. Easiest Store Credit Cards to Get

    Easiest Store Credit Cards to Get

    If you’re just starting out and looking for ways to build a positive credit history, a store credit card may be exactly what you need. Store cards are much like regular credit cards, except that they are meant to be used with a single retailer — or a collection of partner retailers.

  10. 3 Credit Card Perks to Help You Save on College Shopping

    3 Credit Card Perks to Help You Save on College Shopping

    If any word can send a parent with teenagers into a bout of anxiety, it's likely to be "college." For every newly-minted freshman who enters college, the proud parents are looking at a yearly bill for tuition and fees of over $10,000 -- and that's for an in-state public university.

  11. 5 Ways to Sidestep Common Credit Card Blunders

    5 Ways to Sidestep Common Credit Card Blunders

    Credit cards can seem like the solution to all of life's financial problems. Can't afford to pay the electric bill this month? Charge it to your credit card and worry about it later! Want to go on a $5,000 trip to Italy, but don't have the cash? That's what credit cards are for, right?

  12. 5 Ways to Use Rewards for a Last-Minute Fall Getaway

    5 Ways to Use Rewards for a Last-Minute Fall Getaway

    Fall is often an excellent time to plan a last-minute getaway. Not only is it off-peak travel season for many destinations around the world, but the weather can be wonderful, too. The Southern United States still features excellent temperatures, and the water along Florida’s beaches is still warm from the summer heat.

  13. 7 Tips for Staying Debt-Free

    7 Tips for Staying Debt-Free

    Being debt-free gives you more financial freedom, allowing you to pursue other goals without the weight of interest charges and monthly payments on your shoulders. To keep yourself from ending up in debt again, use these tips and regularly review your finances.

  14. How Many Credit Cards Should You Carry?

    How Many Credit Cards Should You Carry?

    If used strategically, credit cards can be an amazing tool. They can give you more flexibility in your spending, allow you to earn valuable rewards, and you can take advantage of benefits like free car rental insurance and purchase protection.

  15. 5 Hacks to Earn Rewards Without Impulse Shopping

    5 Hacks to Earn Rewards Without Impulse Shopping

    The best rewards credit cards make it easy to earn points or miles for each dollar you spend. All you have to do is sign up for the right card, use it for all your regular purchases, and watch your rewards add up over time. Learn to use credit to your advantage and avoid common pitfalls like overspending and credit card debt. Here are some tips that can help.

  16. New to Credit Oportun-ity!

    New to Credit Oportun-ity!

    If you are new to credit, or working to build up your credit this should be at the top of your list of cards to check out. Oportun® Visa® Credit Card, issued by WebBank, Member FDIC, provides customers with little to no credit history with an opportunity to access credit that traditional banks don’t offer. They are able to extend credit where others cannot through artificial intelligence that is able to see customers as much more than simply a credit score.

  17. Credit Card Payment Processing 101

    Credit Card Payment Processing 101

    Have you ever thought about how credit card payment processing works? It’s actually a very complex process involving many different players. Here’s everything you need to know about credit card payment processing.

  18. How to Get Your First Credit Card

    How to Get Your First Credit Card

    Getting your first credit card is a huge adult milestone just like getting your first car or your first bank account. The problem is, it can be difficult to get approved for a credit card just because you want one.

  19. Capital One Makes it Easier than Ever to Start Building Your Credit

    Capital One Makes it Easier than Ever to Start Building Your Credit

    Capital One just launched two brand new student credit cards just in time for kids that are heading off to school. For those of you that are looking to get a credit card for the very first time, there are several factors that you should look at and decide what is most important to you and fits your financial needs the best.

  20. Credit Cards for Gen Z

    Credit Cards for Gen Z

    As you begin your professional career and start living independently, a good credit card can help you finance your expenses, budget, and earn rewards. But with limited credit histories, finding the right card can be difficult.

  21. Crypto Credit Cards

    Crypto Credit Cards

    As of 2021, there is an estimated 2.8% global cryptocurrency ownership rate with 200 million crypto users worldwide. Cryptocurrency has been gaining popularity since the late 2010’s and does not seem to be slowing down anytime soon.

  22. Gap Visa Credit Card Review

    Gap Visa Credit Card Review

    Gap is one of the most recognized brands in the country. It’s where shoppers go to stock up on quality basics and casual wear for all ages. If you’re a frequent shopper, one way to save is to sign up for a Gap-branded credit card. Here’s what you need to know before you apply.

  23. How to Decide Which Type of Credit Card is Best

    How to Decide Which Type of Credit Card is Best

    If you’re new to credit cards, picking out the right one can be an overwhelming decision. There are literally hundreds of credit cards out there, all with their own terms, fees, and rewards. Before applying for a credit card, follow these five steps to ensure you make a sound decision.

  24. 6 Ways Credit Cards Can Improve Your Financial Life

    6 Ways Credit Cards Can Improve Your Financial Life

    By the time most people reach adulthood, they undoubtedly have some level of familiarity with credit cards. Whether it’s a horror story of someone racking up thousands of dollars of credit card debt or the handful of card offers you receive in the mail on a weekly basis, they’re an integral part of the world’s financial fabric.

  25. 6 Best Medical Credit Cards for 2020

    6 Best Medical Credit Cards for 2020

    If you know you’re going to need a medical procedure, check out medical-specific credit cards. These cards are designed to be only used to pay for medical expenses, so they’re limited in use. However, they tend to offer lower interest rates and more generous repayment terms than other credit cards.

  26. What is Chase’s “Pay Yourself Back” Program?

    What is Chase’s “Pay Yourself Back” Program?

    The Chase Ultimate Rewards® Program has been long known for allowing people to redeem points for free flights and hotels. With travel not on people’s minds as much given the current Pandemic situation, Chase® came out with a great new alternative for those points you can be racking up on your Chase® card. It’s called the Pay Yourself Back Program.

  27. Easiest Credit Cards to Get for a 600 Credit Score

    Easiest Credit Cards to Get for a 600 Credit Score

    If you have a credit score around 600, you may be wondering which credit cards you would qualify for. Most credit card issuers would consider this poor to fair credit. If you have felt frustrated from not getting approved for a card in the past these are the cards you should apply for if you have a 600 credit score.

  28. Is the Credit One Bank® Platinum X5 Visa® the Right Card for You?

    Is the Credit One Bank® Platinum X5 Visa® the Right Card for You?

    If you’re making purchases with a credit card and aren’t using a rewards card, you’re losing out on free money. You could be earning valuable cash back, miles, or points on every purchase you make, even if you have less-than-perfect credit. One option available is the Credit One Bank® Platinum X5 Visa® Credit Card. But how can you decide if it’s the right card for you out of the hundreds out there? Here are seven factors to consider.

  29. 9 Ways Credit Card Rewards Have Reshaped Our World

    9 Ways Credit Card Rewards Have Reshaped Our World

    According to a 2019 report from the American Banking Association, consumers are more aware than ever before of the upside to having the right rewards card in their wallet. In addition to rewards for ongoing spending, generous signup bonuses are upping the ante and making credit card rewards even more attractive. With all these perks, our world will never be the same. Here are 9 ways credit card rewards have reshaped life as we know it.

  30. Walmart Credit Card Review: Is It Right for You?

    Walmart Credit Card Review: Is It Right for You?

    If you’re a frequent shopper at Walmart stores, you may be wondering if you could benefit from one of their co-branded credit cards. Before you decide, it helps to know about the different cards the nation’s biggest retailer offers along with how their benefits work.

  31. 5 Best Credit Cards of 2019

    5 Best Credit Cards of 2019

    If you’re looking for a new credit card to your wallet for 2019, you’re making a smart move. Finding the right credit card can help you earn valuable cash back and rewards, as well as connect you with useful travel and shopping benefits.

  32. 8 Credit Card Considerations When Traveling Internationally

    8 Credit Card Considerations When Traveling Internationally

    Before you begin planning for your first overseas trip, however, it helps to know how credit cards factor in. You should absolutely bring one with you — and maybe even more than one — but there’s more to planning your trip than simply packing a credit card in your wallet before you hit the road.

  33. Lowe’s Advantage Card Review

    Lowe’s Advantage Card Review

    If you spend a lot of money on home improvement supplies at Lowe’s, you may be wondering if the Lowe’s Advantage Card is worth signing up for. This card gives you 5% off all purchases made with your account in the store, after all. This generous discount could easily lead to thousands of dollars in savings over time depending on how much you spend in the store.

  34. Best Buy Visa® Card Review

    Best Buy Visa® Card Review

    If you constantly find yourself at Best Buy stores when you’re ready to purchase appliances, electronics, and gadgets for all your home entertainment needs, you may be wondering if the Best Buy Visa® Card is worth it.

  35. Sam's Club® Mastercard® Review

    Sam's Club® Mastercard® Review

    If you spend a lot of time at Sam’s Club and prefer to shop there instead of at traditional grocery stores, you may want to consider picking up the Sam's Club® Mastercard®. This card offers exceptional rewards on Sam’s Club gas purchases along with travel and dining spending, and all with no annual fee.

  36. Rewards Credit Cards Overview: 5 Types of Cards and How They Work

    Rewards Credit Cards Overview: 5 Types of Cards and How They Work

    If you have ever wanted to travel the world, earn cash back for a rainy day, or rack up points good for gift cards or merchandise, a rewards credit card might be exactly what you need. After signing up a for rewards card, you can easily earn 1-5 points worth of cash back, gift cards, merchandise, or travel rewards for each dollar you spend.

  37. Swiping With Care: 10 Ways To Use Credit Cards Responsibly

    Swiping With Care: 10 Ways To Use Credit Cards Responsibly

    Swiping a credit card with reckless abandonment may feel fun and carefree — until you get your bill in the mail. The elation you feel with every purchase can quickly turn to despair if you’ve inadvertently stacked up debt you aren’t able to immediately repay. Make your credit cards work for you, not against you, by following these 10 best practices for using credit cards responsibly.

  38. The Best Ways to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees

    The Best Ways to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees

    There are the financial aspects of your trip — as in, how much is all of this going to cost? While traveling overseas doesn’t have to be expensive, there are plenty of financial pitfalls to be aware of, and that includes foreign transaction fees.

  39. Apple Card: Is It Worth the Hype?

    Apple Card: Is It Worth the Hype?

    The Apple Card will be linked to the Apple Wallet app on iPhones, streamlining your experience with Apple Pay. You can sign up for the Apple Card and start using it right away in stores, online, or through the app.

  40. TJ Maxx Credit Card Review

    TJ Maxx Credit Card Review

    If you’re a bargain shopper who lives for deals at stores like TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, Marshalls, Homesense, and Sierra Trading Post, you may be excited to hear that this collection of stores recently came out with their own co-branded credit cards.

  41. The Top 10 Benefits Of Owning A Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

    The Top 10 Benefits Of Owning A Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

    If you watch television, then you’ve probably seen ads for Capital One’s Venture Rewards card. Its commercials feature famous actors like Jennifer Garner, Samuel L. Jackson, and Alec Baldwin. Behind all the star power, the Venture Rewards is a solid product that can offer you valuable travel rewards, but only if you know how to use it right.

  42. 6 Most Simple Travel Rewards Credit Cards

    6 Most Simple Travel Rewards Credit Cards

    Have you ever read the terms and conditions of a frequent flyer program? These documents were clearly written by teams of lawyers, and sometimes you almost have to be a lawyer to figure out how to redeem your miles. If you’re fed up with trying to decipher these complicated “reward” programs, then perhaps it’s time you reconsider how you earn your rewards and which credit card you use.

  43. 3 Amazing Features Of The Freedom Unlimited® That Everyone Misses

    3 Amazing Features Of The Freedom Unlimited® That Everyone Misses

    There’s no doubt that the Chase Freedom® is one of the most popular reward credit cards of the last decade. With no annual fee, it’s been Chase’s entry-level rewards card that you will find in a huge percentage of American Wallets. Most people just seem to like its formula of offering 5x rewards on up to $1,500 spent each quarter at featured merchants, and 1x elsewhere.

  44. Top Rewards Cards for Summer 2018 Travel

    Top Rewards Cards for Summer 2018 Travel

    Fortunately, your summer getaway doesn’t have to break the bank. There are myriad travel credit cards that can make your summer getaway both cheap and fun, although the right card for your needs depends on where you want to go and your travel style.

  45. What Are Foreign Transaction Fees

    What Are Foreign Transaction Fees

    Credit card offers charge certain fees. One of the most common are foreign transaction fees. These fees are charged whenever you make a purchase with a non-U.S. retailer. The fees are generally set as a percentage of your total purchase; they’re typically about 3%.

  46. Review: Discover it® Student chrome

    Review: Discover it® Student chrome

    As a student, it’s especially important to start building good credit habits now. The earlier you get started, the better off you’ll be once you graduate. However, getting started can be difficult; student credit cards can be hard to find.

  47. Old Navy Credit Card Review: Are the Rewards Worth It?

    Old Navy Credit Card Review: Are the Rewards Worth It?

    Old Navy and its sister brands (Athleta, Banana Republic, and the Gap) are wildly popular, and it’s no surprise why. Where else can you get a whole wardrobe for less than $200? Offering clothes for the whole family, Old Navy makes sense for both budget and fashion-conscious shoppers.

  48. Review: All About the Citi Prestige® Card

    Review: All About the Citi Prestige® Card

    If you’re a frequent traveler, the right credit card can help you save money and even improve your traveling experience. But how to pick the right card? If you’re looking for a new addition to your wallet and have good to excellent credit, check out the Citi Prestige® Card.

  49. You May Never Have to Sign a Credit Card Slip Again

    You May Never Have to Sign a Credit Card Slip Again

    Each of the major credit card issuers — Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express — pulled together to stop requiring credit card signatures as of 2018. The move was the result of careful planning amidst a transition toward greater credit card security over all.

  50. Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: A Review

    Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: A Review

    The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a cash-back credit card that works for people who want to keep their rewards game on the simple side. Not only does this card offer a big signup bonus, but it lets you earn considerable rewards in categories people tend to spend the most in.

  51. Barclaycard Ring® Mastercard® Review 2019

    While travel rewards and cash-back credit cards provide lucrative perks, they work best for consumers who never carry a balance on their cards from month to month. After all, the average credit card APR is currently well over 17%. It doesn’t make any sense to pursue rewards if you’re carrying a balance since the interest you pay will add up to way more than any rewards you earn.

  52. 2019 Guide to Southwest Rapid Rewards®

    2019 Guide to Southwest Rapid Rewards®

    Southwest is known for its low fares, constant sales, and cheerful flight attendants, but the airlines frequent flyer program — known as Southwest Rapid Rewards — is where it really shines. This dynamic program, which is insanely easy to use and understand, offers fare-based redemptions, an overly flexible cancellation policy, and points you can redeem in more than one way.

  53. 2019 Chase Ultimate Rewards® Guide

    2019 Chase Ultimate Rewards® Guide

    The easiest way to earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points is with one of their premier travel credit cards. Also note that you can earn Chase points with their regular cash-back credit cards, although you won’t be able to use them for premium travel redemption's.

  54. Best Travel Credit Cards of 2019

    Best Travel Credit Cards of 2019

    If you’re considering a new travel credit card for the new year, it’s smart to pay attention to new offers as well as tried and true favorites. Fortunately, there are an array of lucrative travel credit card offers available all year long — some with signup bonuses worth $500 or more.

  55. Discover it® Balance Transfer Review

    If you’re in debt and struggling to figure a way out, you are not alone. According to a Northwest Mutual Planning & Progress study from 2018, the average debt per American is up to $38,000 (excluding mortgage debt). Two in every ten people also allocate 50% to 100% of their income to debt repayment, which is a recipe for disaster.

  56. Capital One Platinum Credit Card Review

    If you’re trying to build credit or repair credit mistakes from the past, the Capital One Platinum Credit Card may be exactly what you need. Keep reading to learn how you could qualify, the benefits you will receive if you get approved, and where this card comes up short.

  57. HSBC Cash Rewards Mastercard®

    The HSBC Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card allows you to rack up rewards quickly. You’ll earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase you make, and there’s no limit to what you can earn.

  58. Discover it® Miles Review: Earn 3x Miles for Travel in 2019

    While many travel rewards cards offer complicated redemption schemes and earning categories that are hard to keep track of, the Discover it® Miles takes a totally different approach. Let's go over the biggest benefits of the Discover it® Miles, who it’s best for, and a few potential downsides to consider.

  59. Discover it® Cash Back Review

    Discover it® Cash Back Review

    If you’re looking for a way to earn more than the standard 1% cash back many no-fee rewards cards offer, you may want to consider the Discover it® Cash Back.This card does offer unlimited 1% cash back on your everyday purchases, but you also earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 spent in categories that rotate each quarter.

  60. Best Rewards Cards for Holiday Shopping

    Best Rewards Cards for Holiday Shopping

    If you plan to shop for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, or other winter holidays this year, it’s only natural to wonder if a credit card could leave you better off. After all, many credit cards offer travel rewards or cash-back and some offer consumer protections such as guaranteed returns and extended warranties.

  61. What is the Best Discover Credit Card?

    What is the Best Discover Credit Card?

    If you’re in the market for a new credit card this year and think a Discover card could meet your needs, it helps to gain an understanding of each card’s unique value proposition. This guide breaks down the benefits of each card as well as who it’s good for.

  62. Most Popular Store Credit Cards of 2018

    Most Popular Store Credit Cards of 2018

    If you have a limited credit history or a less-than-stellar credit score, getting a traditional credit card can be difficult. Building your credit can take time. If you’re ready to step up from secured credit cards, a store credit card can be a smart option if used responsibly.

  63. 5 Little-Known Secrets of the Amex Black Card

    5 Little-Known Secrets of the Amex Black Card

    The American Express Centurion Card — commonly referred to as the Black Card — is one of the most exclusive cards out there. Celebrities and musicians commonly talk about having one or wanting to have one; it’s a sign you’ve made it in the social circles of the rich and famous. But, is it really worth the hype?

  64. Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit

    Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit

    When you have trouble paying the bills each month, it’s easy to fall behind. But missing just a few payments can cause your credit score to go down, a massive problem millions of people face each year.

  65. Easy Approval Credit Cards

    Easy Approval Credit Cards

    There’s no such thing as a good instant-approval credit card. Most of the credit cards that claim they accept anyone and everyone with no thought to your credit and financial situation don’t mention that they charge sky-high interest rates and fees for the privilege.

  66. Which Credit Cards are Best for Building Credit?

    Which Credit Cards are Best for Building Credit?

    Building credit can be difficult when you’re first starting out, and it may even seem impossible. It’s not always easy to find a bank willing to give you a credit card or line of credit when you don’t have a credit history, after all. If you're not sure where to start, a secure card might be best.

  67. What Is the Best Capital One Credit Card?

    What Is the Best Capital One Credit Card?

    Whether you’re looking at Capital One or any other issuer, the perfect card for you will depend a lot on your credit and your feature preferences. To help you pick the right one, we’ll cover the top Capital One credit cards and who they’re good for.

  68. Why Flexible Travel Credit is Totally Underrated

    Why Flexible Travel Credit is Totally Underrated

    If you’re in the market for a travel credit card but feeling completely overwhelmed by all the different rewards programs available, you’re not alone. While earning travel rewards is fun for some, many people find that the sheer number of rewards programs, make the process of finding a card stressful.

  69. Why You Should Get a Credit Card for Your Summer Vacation

    Why You Should Get a Credit Card for Your Summer Vacation

    Whether you have some of your summer travel booked and paid for or you’re waiting to score a last-minute deal, you might be surprised to hear that one tool could help save you money or protect your financial investment. Here are 4 reasons you should consider getting a credit card before you depart on your summer getaway.

  70. Can a Credit Card Actually Help Me Pay Off Debt?

    Can a Credit Card Actually Help Me Pay Off Debt?

    If you’re drowning in debt and struggling to find a way out, you may believe a new credit card is the last thing you need. While you are likely right when it comes to traditional cards, there is one type of card that could actually make paying down debt easier.

  71. Top 4 Credit Cards for Investors

    Top 4 Credit Cards for Investors

    With the right rewards card, you can easily earn up to 5% back on all your regular spending. Since you can achieve these returns without any effort or time invested, this is truly “free money,” provided you have the discipline to pay your bill in full each month.

  72. 8 Unusual Credit Card Benefits

    8 Unusual Credit Card Benefits

    Credit Cards use a number of benefits to entice users to use their credit cards. However, many credit cards offer little-known benefits and unusual enticements that most people aren't aware of and never use. Check out these 8 unusual credit card benefits you should be taking advantage of right now.

  73. The Best Rewards Cards for a Valentine’s Day Splurge

    The Best Rewards Cards for a Valentine’s Day Splurge

    If you are hoping to score a slightly more exciting or luxurious Valentine’s Day this year, however, certain rewards and travel credit cards can help. Not only do some dole out rewards you can use for an epic gift, but some rewards are a gift on their own.Here are some of our favorite cards for an epic Valentine’s Day.

  74. 5 Best Rewards Cards for Your Massive Daycare Bill

    5 Best Rewards Cards for Your Massive Daycare Bill

    If you’re looking for ways to rack up rewards through regular spending, why not take a look at your daycare bill? You’re probably paying a lot for care, so it makes sense to look for ways to benefit. Provided you can pay your daycare bill with a credit card every month (and pay it off), this strategy could help you rack up a ton of rewards with little effort on your part.

  75. Uber Visa Review

    Uber Visa Review

    In the last ten years, the introduction of ride-sharing has led to a complete revolution in both personal and business travel. This industry has been led by Uber, which now has more revenue than the entire U.S. rental car industry combined. The new Uber Visa card from Barclaycard offers some of the most valuable rewards available from any card.

  76. Best Financing Offers For Coping With Holiday Debt

    Best Financing Offers For Coping With Holiday Debt

    Every year, the holiday season comes and goes. It starts with the flurry of retail sales that surround gift buying as well as the increased personal consumption triggered by the best deals of the year. But for many Americans, the holiday season ends with new debts and rising interest charges.

  77. 5 Money Lessons Your Teenager Can Learn with a Credit Card

    5 Money Lessons Your Teenager Can Learn with a Credit Card

    While there are many ways to learn life’s important lessons, one of the best ways to learn is by doing – or through old fashioned trial and error. You can tell your kids how to fish, but they’ll become better fisherman by baiting their own lines and strategizing ways to get fish to bite.

  78. Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card Review

    Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card Review

    The new Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card falls into the latter category, offering different levels of rewards for different purchases. Fortunately, the rewards are lucrative – especially in certain categories – and there’s no annual fee. The fact this card offers a signup bonus is just icing on the cake.

  79. Best Business Credit Cards for 2017 Holiday Spending

    Best Business Credit Cards for 2017 Holiday Spending

    Before you spend hundreds – or even thousands – of dollars on holiday gifts for your employees or vendors, it can pay off to spend some time figuring out the best business credit card for your needs. Here are some options to consider along with their pros and cons for the 2017 holiday season and beyond:

  80. This Rewards Card Gives You 5 Percent Back on All Your Holiday Shopping

    This Rewards Card Gives You 5 Percent Back on All Your Holiday Shopping

    If you’re gearing up for the holiday shopping season and looking for new ways to save, it always helps to think outside the box. Of course you’ll scoop up bargains on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but your deal-seeking doesn’t have to end there. With the right rewards credit card, you could get 5 percent cash back – or a 5 percent discount on most of your holiday gift-giving this year.

  81. Best Rewards Cards for Black Friday 2017

    Best Rewards Cards for Black Friday 2017

    As usual, a lot of spending will take place on Black Friday, the notorious shopping holiday that takes place the day after Thanksgiving. As NRF figures show, more than 154 million individuals shopped in stores or online on Black Friday in 2016, spending about $290 each, on average.

  82. The Best Business Credit Cards for Your Side Hustle

    The Best Business Credit Cards for Your Side Hustle

    Getting a business credit card can not only help you keep your business and personal expenses separate, but some also offer rewards and other features that are specifically tailored to your business. They can help you save money on expenses so you can take home more profit.

  83. Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards that also offer rewards

    Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards that also offer rewards

    You don’t have to give up your ability to earn rewards in order to use a promotional financing offer. There are many cards that have both a competitive rewards program and strong promotional financing on balance transfers. Check out these 6 best balance transfer cards that also offer rewards.

  84. Best Balance Transfer Cards of 2019

    Best Balance Transfer Cards of 2019

    If you’re like most Americans, you’re burdened by credit card debt. In fact, the average American has $6,354 in credit card debt. With high interest rates, your balance can quickly balloon out of control, and you can end up paying far more than you originally charged.

  85. Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards if You Have a Ton of Debt

    Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards if You Have a Ton of Debt

    But, which balance transfer card should you get? If you have a small amount of debt that will only take a few months to pay off, nearly any 0 percent APR card could do the trick. If you’re drowning in debt and carrying more than average, on the other hand, a card with a long introductory offer and the best terms possible will leave you better off.

  86. Are premium credit cards worth it?

    Are premium credit cards worth it?

    Would you ever consider paying a $450 annual fee for a credit card? Perhaps you should, as premium credit cards can offer exceptional value, even when compared to their soaring annual fees. In fact, the market for premium credit cards is extremely hot.

  87. Airline Credit Cards with No Annual Fee

    Airline Credit Cards with No Annual Fee

    Nearly everyone would like to use their credit cards to earn a free flight, but unfortunately most airline credit cards charge an annual fee of $95 or more. Thankfully, there’s a small, but growing number of airline credit cards that have no annual fee.

  88. Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card: Earn Delta SkyMiles® without an Annual Fee

    Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card: Earn Delta SkyMiles® without an Annual Fee

    Recently, Delta Air Lines and American Express partnered up to offer a brand new co-branded credit card – the Blue Delta SkyMiles® Credit Card from American Express. While the signup bonus on this card isn’t anything to write home about, it does offer one benefit many rewards consumers look for – no annual fee. Beyond its lack of an annual fee, this card also offers an interesting earning structure that could work well for consumers with certain spending habits.

  89. How To Choose a Credit Card

    How To Choose a Credit Card

    Most consumers understand the benefits of having a credit card, but it can feel overwhelming to choose from a seemingly endless list of options. Credit card companies and financial institutions offer dozens upon dozens of deals depending on your financial history and goals, and every card brings with it different terms, interest rates, and perks.

  90. 5 Ways Millennials Can Use Credit Cards to their Advantage

    5 Ways Millennials Can Use Credit Cards to their Advantage

    Millennials may be the largest living generation on Earth, but that doesn't mean they don't face their share of financial hurdles. For example, millennials face higher levels of student loan debt than ever before, rampant unemployment or underemployment, an increasingly expensive housing market, and a world where owning costly gadgets and technology is the norm.

  91. Rewards Credit Cards to Score Before the Holidays Hit

    Rewards Credit Cards to Score Before the Holidays Hit

    With summer behind us and fall on its way, it’s just a matter of time until the festive season hits. Once Halloween comes and goes, an explosion of twinkling lights and non-stop sales will last for months. Holiday shopping season will kick in, culminating on Black Friday followed by weeks of last-minute rushing to find the perfect gifts. It will be here before we know it, which is why you should really start planning now.

  92. Yes, You Can Book All-Inclusive Vacations with Credit Card Rewards

    Yes, You Can Book All-Inclusive Vacations with Credit Card Rewards

    According to a recent survey from Allianz Travel Insurance, the average American may be spending more money on vacation than ever before - approximately $1,798 on average as of 2016. That’s a lot of dough to spend on travel, yet 50 percent of respondents to the Allianz study said they were confident they could pull it off.

  93. What to do with your Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

    What to do with your Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

    For several years, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card was one of the best travel reward credit cards. It offers double Ultimate Rewards points on all travel and dining purchases, and your rewards could be transferred to miles with seven airlines or points with four hotel programs. You can also redeem points for 1.25 cents each towards travel reservations made through Chase.

  94. Can Credit Cards Help You Become More Charitable?

    Can Credit Cards Help You Become More Charitable?

    When it comes to credit cards, there are too many options to count. From cash-back rewards cards that let you earn rewards to balance transfer cards that help you save money on interest, there’s a card type to suit everyone regardless of their credit needs. And yes, that includes credit cards that can help you become more charitable. Believe it or not, some card issuers and programs make it easy to donate cash-back or miles instead of keeping your rewards for yourself.

  95. A No-Fee Membership Rewards® Card You’ll Love: Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

    A No-Fee Membership Rewards® Card You’ll Love: Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

    While American Express is well known for their selection of premier travel credit cards, past and present Amex customers seem to have a lot of gripes. For starters, the card issuer’s top tier travel credit cards – the Platinum Card from American Express and the Business Platinum Card from American Express – come with outrageous annual fees of $550 and $595, respectively. Worse, both cards offer an earning tier of just 1 point per $1 spent outside of special bonus categories.

  96. “Surprise” Credit Card Fees You Should Never, Ever Pay

    “Surprise” Credit Card Fees You Should Never, Ever Pay

    Credit cards offer a slew of benefits that make them valuable for just about anyone. With a credit card in-hand, you can score valuable consumer protections like purchase protection, zero fraud liability, and guaranteed returns. And, let’s not forget about the many rewards programs that help you rack up cash back, gift cards, or free travel.

  97. Plan Now to Earn Travel Rewards For the Holidays

    Plan Now to Earn Travel Rewards For the Holidays

    It’s inevitable. Every fall Americans begin to panic as they realize that they will have to pay a premium to travel over the winter holidays. And it’s even worse for many who want to travel with the points and miles that they’ve earned from their credit cards.But it doesn’t have to be this way. This summer is the perfect time to start earning rewards for your winter travel.

  98. Your Top 3 Travel Cards for Summertime Fun

    Your Top 3 Travel Cards for Summertime Fun

    Vacations and summer. They go together like sunscreen and coconut scent, hot dogs and mustard, and tropical drinks and decorative umbrellas. Is it any wonder that people begin to plan trips to warmer climates during the dead of winter? They spend weeks — and even months — obsessing about location, quibbling over price, and delving into web research. A massive amount of planning goes into an annual summer vacation, but people sometimes neglect a key concern: How to make funding your trip simpl

  99. Best Credit Cards for Graduate Students

    Best Credit Cards for Graduate Students

    While over a third of Americans have a four-year degree, less than 15% of those over 25 ever receive their master’s or doctoral degree. Just by being a graduate student, you’ve already placed yourself in an elite group. But being a graduate student might not actually feel so elite. Grad students are known for working hard and studying incredibly long hours, while scraping by on a shoestring budget.

  100. Credit cards for college students

    Credit cards for college students

    You’re finally finished with high school and college bound this fall. Getting a credit card before you hit the books come September may be on your to-do list for the next months, but be aware that it’s not as simple as signing on the dotted line and getting a card in the mail.

  101. 3 Ways to Lower Your Credit Card Payment

    3 Ways to Lower Your Credit Card Payment

    When it comes to credit cards, it’s easy to lose track of your budget and run up a balance. In fact, the average credit card debt per cardholder in the United States is $4,061. If you have a high-interest credit card, your balance can grow over time, increasing your minimum payment and making it difficult stay on track.

  102. Chase Freedom® Review: A First-Hand Account

    Chase Freedom® Review: A First-Hand Account

    My original foray into credit card rewards stemmed from a targeted mailer for the Chase Freedom® card. I was in my late 20’s and money was tight. With Chase Freedom®, I learned I could score an initial signup bonus ($100 at the time) and earn 1-5 percent cash back for every dollar I spent. Needless to say, I was pumped to try it out.

  103. Why Chase Slate® Is The Ultimate Tool For Paying Off Your Debt

    Why Chase Slate® Is The Ultimate Tool For Paying Off Your Debt

    It can be incredibly hard to get out of credit card debt. As unsecured debt, credit card interest rates are generally much higher than those for a home or a car. Unlike a home mortgage or a student loan, the interest charges for credit card debt are never tax deductible. Finally, many people rely on their card’s line of credit to pay for everyday expenses, further increasing the debt that they are trying to pay off.

  104. Understanding Interest and APR is in Your Best Interest

    Understanding Interest and APR is in Your Best Interest

    It may be complicated, but understanding how credit card interest and annual percentage rates work is really in your best interest. It’s hard to win at the credit card game and make the best possible financial choices for you without a solid comprehension of what terms like interest rate, compound interest and APR mean. Luckily, you don’t need a degree in finance to understand the acronyms on your billing statement.

  105. A New Grad’s Guide to Credit Cards

    A New Grad’s Guide to Credit Cards

    If you’re a fresh graduate right out of college, life can feel overwhelming right now. You just finished four years (or more) of school and now have to face problems like finding a job, moving into your own apartment and paying down student loans. Getting a credit card is probably not a priority right now, but not having a credit card can make life more difficult.

  106. 4 Things to Consider When Weighing Credit Cards

    4 Things to Consider When Weighing Credit Cards

    Credit cards are like a stick of dynamite: They’re incredibly effective at their intended purpose, but they can blow up in your face when used inappropriately. When you're in the market for a new credit card, the possibilities seem infinite. Countless banks and credit card companies offer dozens of different deals, and every card delivers distinct terms, rates, and fine print.

  107. Best Credit Cards for a Large Purchase

    Best Credit Cards for a Large Purchase

    If you have a large purchase coming up and don’t have the cash, you have myriad options at your disposal. You could spend months saving small sums to reach your goal, or you could take out a personal loan. If neither of those options seem appealing, you could sign up for a new credit card instead.

  108. Using Credit Cards Rewards for Vacation Expenses

    Using Credit Cards Rewards for Vacation Expenses

    The only thing better than a vacation is a free vacation. Sound too good to be true? Well, for many savvy credit card users, free, nearly free, or on-the-cheap vacations are a way of life. Using travel credit cards can help you earn that summer vacation of your dreams without putting a luxury-vacation-sized dent in your wallet.

  109. Is There Such a Thing as Too Many Credit Cards?

    Is There Such a Thing as Too Many Credit Cards?

    Since the dawn of credit cards, man has struggled with one nagging question: Cash or credit? Some people claim you should ditch cards altogether to avoid debt, while others argue it’s smarter to responsibly use credit to rack up rewards. Regardless of your spending habits, most financial experts would say it’s a good idea to have at least one card to build your credit history.

  110. How to Boost Your Odds of Credit Card Approval

    How to Boost Your Odds of Credit Card Approval

    Finding a credit card that's a good fit for your lifestyle is hard enough, but getting approval can seem like an impossible challenge. Rejection is never fun, and it's particularly painful to be rejected because of something as personal as your financial history.

  111. What You Should Know Before Doing a Balance Transfer

    What You Should Know Before Doing a Balance Transfer

    Most Americans have credit card debt, and the average household has a balance of $5,700. With the mean interest rate on credit card debt rising to 13.6% percent, your balance can quickly balloon out of control. You can end up paying hundreds or even thousands in interest fees, making it difficult to ever get out of debt.

  112. Keeping Your Credit Card Safe On Vacation

    Keeping Your Credit Card Safe On Vacation

    All your bags are packed and you’re ready to go. However, before you head on that vacation, make sure you’ve packed more than one way to pay for all that fun you’re going to have. True, cash is king, but on vacation using a credit card is easier and offers more protection than toting around a wad of cash.

  113. Should You Pay Your Card’s Annual Fee? Here’s How to Decide

    Should You Pay Your Card’s Annual Fee? Here’s How to Decide

    The best travel and rewards credit cards really can offer the unthinkable – something for nothing. By using your card for all your purchases, you can earn points redeemable for cash back, travel rewards, gift cards, or merchandise. The catch, however, is that you must avoid carrying a balance if you want to avoid credit card interest.

  114. Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card

    Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card

    Are you looking to earn the most possible rewards from your credit card? If so, then you have to choose between two different types of reward credit cards. One type are those that offer a fixed rate of return on all purchases. Then, there are others that feature bonuses for purchases from specific categories of merchants. When you choose a card that offers bonus rewards, the key is to earn rewards on the type of purchases you make the most.

  115. Is a Balance Transfer Credit Card right for you?

    Is a Balance Transfer Credit Card right for you?

    Balance Transfer Credit Cards are not for everyone but they can be a money saver when used in the right situation. These credit cards are best used to transfer your current credit card balance with a higher interest rate to and then pay it off within a few months or within the intro period.

  116. USAA offers great options for Veterans

    USAA offers great options for Veterans

    The USAA family of companies provides insurance, banking, investments, retirement products and advice to 11.7 million current and former members of the U.S. military and their families. Known for its legendary commitment to its members, USAA is consistently recognized for outstanding service, employee well-being and financial strength.

  117. Earn Rewards Towards Your Next Vehicle Purchase

    Earn Rewards Towards Your Next Vehicle Purchase

    Looking to purchase or lease a new vehicle at some point within the next 3 years? Then the GM BuyPower Business Card from Capital One® -Get The Card That Helps You Get The Car might be for you. This rewards card offers 3% Earnings on purchases at gas stations, restaurants, and office supply stores; 1% Earnings on all other purchases; plus, 5% Earnings on purchases of GM parts, accessories and service at authorized GM dealers - all of which can be exclusively redeemed toward the purchase or lease

  118. Chase Freedom® 5% Quarterly Categories for Q1 2019

    Chase Freedom® 5% Quarterly Categories for Q1 2019

    The Chase Freedom® has long been considered one of the most popular cash-back credit cards on the market — and for good reason. This cash-back credit card lets you earn 5% back on up to $1,500 in spending in categories that rotate each quarter (then 1%), plus 1% back on all your other purchases.

  119. What to look for in small business credit.

    What to look for in small business credit.

    When looking for a small business card there are several options available. American Express has their SimplyCash Business Card with benefits on purchases. If you are using rewards credit cards for your business credit card, check out the savings from FedEx, Hertz and more when you use the Open Savings from Amex.


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