The Ultimate Guide to Credit Cards
Tuesday, March 19, 2024

All articles tagged Applying (195)

14 Best Credit Cards For Truck Drivers (March 2024)

14 Best Credit Cards For Truck Drivers (March 2024)

For truck drivers, road trip spending quickly adds up at places such as fuel stops and diners. Plus, with fuel prices at near record highs, it only makes sense to be rewarded for everyday purchases using credit cards.  Truck drivers may enjoy cash back programs and auxiliary benefits such as travel interruption insurance and emergency roadside assistance, depending on the card. Here, we review our favorite credit cards for truck drivers. Continue reading to learn more about... read more »

9 Best 0% APR Signup Bonus Credit Cards (March 2024)

9 Best 0% APR Signup Bonus Credit Cards (March 2024)

As competition heats up in the credit card industry, we have seen more credit cards with 0% APR offers. These cards allow you to make a balance transfer to your new card with as low as 0% APR for nearly two years, in some cases. Many of these cards also offer signup bonuses. These bonuses may be worth hundreds of dollars, depending on the card’s annual fee. With a qualifying credit score, you could get one of these cards, save money, and also earn bonus rewards. Best Overall... read more »

11 Best Mid-Tier Credit Cards (March 2024)

11 Best Mid-Tier Credit Cards (March 2024)

Mid-tier credit cards allow cardholders to earn travel points, statement credits, cash back, and enjoy promotional APRs, among other valuable perks. For the privilege, all you need is an established credit history with a good credit score and a willingness to pay an annual fee, typically starting at $95. As for the target demographic, mid-tier credit cards work well for anyone who would prefer to straddle the fine line between entry-level, $0 annual fee cards and $400 per year... read more »

Credit Card Reviews: 5 Best Cards by Category (March 2024)

Credit Card Reviews: 5 Best Cards by Category (March 2024)

Consumers today have a plethora of options when choosing their next credit card. You may be wondering what the best choice may be, but the reality is that it depends on how you will use the card and what your credit score is. Some credit cards are excellent for some uses but not the best for other purposes. To find the best choice, you must determine how you will use the card. From there, you can choose from a few of the best credit cards in several key categories. ... read more »

7 Bank of America Cards By Credit Score Needed (March 2024)

7 Bank of America Cards By Credit Score Needed (March 2024)

Bank of America offers a large variety of credit cards, including cards for people with excellent credit and even cards for bad credit. With such a large selection, it can be hard to figure out which card you want, which card you really need, and which ones you’re actually eligible for. Below we explain the different cards that Bank of America offers, how they compare, and how to determine which is best for your credit profile. Navigate This Article: ... read more »

9 Credit Cards For $50k, $75k & $100k Salaries (March 2024)

9 Credit Cards For $50k, $75k & $100k Salaries (March 2024)

Ready for some statistics? The US average yearly income as of the first quarter of 2023 was $56,940. The annual median income was $75,143 for two-person households, while four-person families collected a yearly median income of $105,901. We at CardRates.com are interested in the relationship between salary and credit cards from the consumer and card issuer viewpoints. This article explores how credit card companies use salary information to design their offerings and approve... read more »

7 Best 25,000+ Bonus Point Credit Cards (March 2024)

7 Best 25,000+ Bonus Point Credit Cards (March 2024)

I still remember getting a signup-bonus credit card a few years back. Soon after, I collected 80,000 beautiful points for spending the required amount within three months (actually, it took only two weeks). That heady feeling can be yours if you acquire one of the cards we feature in this review. You’ll need a good credit score (670+ FICO) to get a credit card with a big signup bonus. That point aside, a signup bonus is a glorious thing — not a life event, but certainly... read more »

4 Facts: Bank of America Unlimited Cash vs. Customized Cash (March 2024)

4 Facts: Bank of America Unlimited Cash vs. Customized Cash (March 2024)

Bank of America’s flagship cash back cards are like two peas in a pod. One pea dispenses the same amount of cash back on all eligible purchases, and the other offers tiered rewards you can control. Except for how the cards distribute their cash back, nary a difference separates one from the other.  Both cards are terrific choices for Bank of America customers who prefer cash back to points. Indeed, these cards have enough broad appeal to attract folks who bank... read more »

9 Best 3% Cash Back Credit Cards (March 2024)

9 Best 3% Cash Back Credit Cards (March 2024)

Three percent is the Baby Bear porridge of the credit card world: Not too hot, not too cold. It splits the difference between the typical top reward rate of 5% on select merchant categories and the meager 1% unlimited rate on everyday purchases.  So why choose 3% as your highest reward rate when you could get 5% or more? Frequently, the answer is simplicity. Credit cards that top out at 3% cash back or 3X points do not burden you with quarterly rotating bonus categories for you... read more »

12 Easy-Approval Gas Credit Cards (March 2024)

12 Easy-Approval Gas Credit Cards (March 2024)

Gas credit cards are some of the most popular credit cards thanks to how seamless their savings are. If you drive, gas is a common and costly expense in your life.  I know I'm not the only one who will look up the cheapest gas prices and drive the extra mile if it means I can save a few cents per gallon. Fortunately, many credit cards will basically do that for you without any extra work. The cards below offer cash back and other rewards just for paying at the pump. The best... read more »

11 Banks That Offer Secured Credit Cards (March 2024)

11 Banks That Offer Secured Credit Cards (March 2024)

Love ‘em or hate 'em, banks play a vital role in the economy. In addition to paying interest on savings and making loans, banks also issue credit cards. Banks that offer secured credit cards range in size from behemoth to boutique. We've assembled a list of banks in alphabetical order that offer widely available secured cards you may want to consider. When you don't have good credit, secured credit cards provide easier access and lower costs than do their unsecured cousins.  ... read more »

5 Best Credit Cards For a 700 Credit Score (March 2024)

5 Best Credit Cards For a 700 Credit Score (March 2024)

A 700 credit score (or higher) puts you in a great place to get some of the best loans and credit card offers. There are several credit cards for a 700 credit score whether you’re looking for travel rewards, cash back, or other discounts and perks.  A higher credit score can help you get the lowest possible interest rate. As a result, you get to maximize your rewards without added fees or high APRs. Here are some of the best credit cards for a 700 score, including the best... read more »

8 Credit Cards With No Security Deposit (March 2024)

8 Credit Cards With No Security Deposit (March 2024)

Plenty of people have bad credit for all sorts of reasons. It's neither a moral failing nor a permanent condition. Moreover, an extensive industry provides financial products and services to folks with fair or bad credit.  The credit card marketplace is in this vanguard, offering dozens of choices to those with below-average credit. This article reviews credit cards with no security deposit that compete head-to-head with some outstanding secured credit cards for consumers with... read more »

9 Best Visa Signature Cards (March 2024)

9 Best Visa Signature Cards (March 2024)

The world is slightly nicer when you have a Visa Signature card in your wallet. This type of credit card provides valuable core benefits and a handsome credit line.  Issuers such as Capital One and Chase enhance their Visa Signature cards with additional perks to create unique blends of relationship rewards, bonuses, and costs. We've evaluated nine of the best — any one of them may be a perfect fit for your lifestyle. Navigate This Article: ... read more »

$50 Deposit Secured Credit Cards (Feb. 2024)

$50 Deposit Secured Credit Cards (Feb. 2024)

To think we'd live to see a $50 deposit secured credit card! Well, besides another cross-off on your bucket list, what is the significance?  The reviewed no-annual-fee credit card requires a small deposit, making it obtainable by just about anybody. Furthermore, you can get it even if your credit is less than perfect — way less than perfect. The card gives you an effective way to build or rebuild credit on the cheap, whether you are a credit newbie or clawing your way out of... read more »

7 Best Credit Cards for Military Personnel (March 2024)

7 Best Credit Cards for Military Personnel (March 2024)

There are plenty of options if you're looking for the best credit cards for military personnel. Serving in the military is an honor that requires a lot of sacrifices and deserves the utmost respect. Many companies offer military discounts and benefits to show respect for those who dedicate their lives to serving.  When it comes to credit cards, there are many benefits you can receive. In 2006, the Military Lending Act (MLA) was established to protect members of the Armed Forces... read more »

Instacart Credit Card: Review & 5 Alternatives (March 2024)

Instacart Credit Card: Review & 5 Alternatives (March 2024)

The appearance of an Instacart credit card was inevitable, given the wild popularity of North America's largest online grocery service. Millions of shoppers turned to Instacart and similar companies during the pandemic to avoid possible infection while keeping the kitchen stocked. Instacart customers can remotely buy and take delivery of 500 million products from 40,000 stores in more than 5,500 cities. Your humble writer enjoyed making Instacart purchases during the worst days of... read more »

Which Credit Card Companies Provide the Best Credit Cards? (March 2024)

Which Credit Card Companies Provide the Best Credit Cards? (March 2024)

Choosing a credit card can be a confusing process. Not only are there a huge number of credit cards on the market, but many different companies issue these products. When searching for the card of your dreams, it’s a good idea to know more about the issuing company.  After all, you will be doing business with them, so you will want to go with the right one for you. In fact, by focusing your attention on the company first, you can narrow down your choices to make the decision... read more »

2024‘s List of Subprime Credit Cards (March 2024)

2024‘s List of Subprime Credit Cards (March 2024)

Our rather long list of subprime credit cards proves that you have many potential shopping partners despite your past financial challenges. Some of these cards may be unfamiliar to the average consumer, but we've also included offerings from major league players such as Citibank, Discover, and Capital One.  These cards build credit when you use them responsibly. Paying your bills on time may help you move up to prime credit cards within a year. This article discusses how (and... read more »

9 Best Credit Cards For Rebuilding Credit (March 2024)

9 Best Credit Cards For Rebuilding Credit (March 2024)

Did you know that besides making purchases, you can use credit cards to rebuild credit? It's been my experience that folks are more familiar with how credit card mistakes can destroy credit rather than help it. But the redemptive powers of credit cards are available to anyone willing and able to pay their bills on time.  Of course, a credit card can't heal your credit history if you don't own one. We've rounded up the best cards you can get even with very poor credit. Use one... read more »

15 Pre-Approved Credit Cards By Issuer (March 2024)

15 Pre-Approved Credit Cards By Issuer (March 2024)

In this review of pre-approved credit cards by issuer, we describe how to get a credit card with a minimum of fuss. We look at the pre-approval processes of five major card issuers: Capital One, Chase, Discover, American Express, and Citi. While pre-approval does not guarantee final approval, it’s a pretty good indication that your credit card application will ultimately sail through, barring unexpected problems. Credit card preapproval is a nice feature for all consumers but... read more »

9 Best Low-Limit Credit Cards (March 2024)

9 Best Low-Limit Credit Cards (March 2024)

When it comes to credit cards, bigger isn’t always better. While some consumers may look for flashy cards with bells, whistles, and sky-high credit limits, others may prefer to throttle temptation by maintaining a lower credit limit. With a low-limit credit card, you can rest assured that you’ll have access to credit in case of emergency or necessity (such as when you want to rent a car), but you won’t have the temptation of overspending yourself into debt. Here are some of the... read more »

Luxury Card: Review & 3 Better Cards (March 2024)

Luxury Card: Review & 3 Better Cards (March 2024)

This Luxury Card review is a must-read if you like credit cards that pamper. Not only will you find out how this trio of stunningly beautiful metal cards cushions all the tiresome traveling and shopping your lifestyle demands, but you'll also learn about the premium credit cards competing for your affection.  We'll show you the best since, for some, only the best will do.  Navigate This Article: Best Redemption Rates ... read more »

Mastercard Black Card™ Benefits, Applying & Alternatives

Mastercard Black Card™ Benefits, Applying & Alternatives

The Mastercard Black Card™ began life as a Visa card in 2008 before Black Card LLC reassigned it in 2016. Formally known as the Mastercard® Black Card™, it and the Mastercard® Gold Card™ and Mastercard® Titanium Card™ constitute the Luxury Card collection. Barclays Bank is the card issuer.  The card may be worth the steep annual fee if you like to travel first class. But this Mastercard Black Card review reveals fierce competition from a handful of premium cards... read more »

How to Get a Credit Card With No Credit 

How to Get a Credit Card With No Credit 

Are you prepared for the conversation with your teenager? No, not that one! I mean the one where they come to you and ask how to get a credit card with no credit history. To spare you embarrassment, we've prepared this article to give you all the information you need for a knowing answer. My, how quickly they grow up. Apply For a Card That Accepts Applicants With No Credit History Step One is to find a credit card that accepts applicants with no credit history. Our review... read more »