Brittney is a Credit Strategist and Finance Expert who has spent years honing her knowledge of the credit industry both personally and professionally. Brittney applies her more than a decade of research experience to crafting in-depth consumer guides designed to help CardRates readers make better, more informed financial decisions.
Lillian Guevara-Castro brings more than 30 years of editing and journalism experience to the CardRates team. She has worked at The Atlanta Journal and Constitution, Gwinnett Daily News, Gainesville Sun, and The New York Times, where she covered demographics, consumer issues, and the business and financial sectors. Lillian has a degree in journalism and communications from Georgia State University and brings her fact-checking expertise to ensure Digital Brands content is accurate and engaging.
Ashley Fricker has more than a decade of experience as a finance contributor and editor, and has specialized in the credit card industry since 2015. Her credit card commentary is featured on national media outlets that include CNBC, MarketWatch, Investopedia, and Reader's Digest, among many others. She has worked closely with the world’s largest banks and financial institutions, up-and-coming fintech companies, and press and news outlets to curate comprehensive content and media. Ashley holds a bachelor's degree in multimedia journalism from Florida Atlantic University.
Credit card numbers are a (seemingly) magical combination of digits that unlock a whole new realm of finance options to consumers.
Sometimes it seems as though, in just a few decades, we’ve gone from having hardly any credit cards at all to living in a world in which nearly every product and service requires a credit card number to operate.
But while many of us already have a credit card or two — or 40 — there are still thousands of Americans without the necessary numerical key to access many popular services.
So, how do you get a credit card number? It starts by finding the right card. And given that your credit profile is the first thing a prospective card issuer will investigate, cards aimed at your credit type can be a good place to begin your search.
The very top of the consumer credit food chain, consumers with excellent credit have a wide range of credit cards from which to choose. That’s because they’ve shown a solid history of on-time payments, have no delinquent credit card accounts, and keep low (to no) balances on their cards.
Yes, with excellent credit, little will stand in your way to getting a credit card number — and a whole lot more. Your excellent credit can net you everything from a top-tier travel rewards card to a fee-free cash back card — and most cards in between, including our top picks below.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
4.9/5.0
About this rating
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for excellent credit based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
4.9/5.0
About this rating
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for excellent credit based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases.
Choose 3% cash back on gas and EV charging station, online shopping/cable/internet/phone plan/streaming, dining, travel, drug store/pharmacy or home improvement/furnishings purchases.
If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 3.75%-5.25% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for excellent credit based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for excellent credit based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for excellent credit based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for excellent credit based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Of course, nothing in finance is ever guaranteed, and even having excellent credit won’t be enough for some cards. For instance, many of the most exclusive credit cards are invite-only and require six-digit annual credit card spending, which of course isn’t a reality for many Americans.
Another common example is the Chase family of cards, the majority of which fall under its infamous 5/24 Rule. In essence, those who have opened five or more credit cards in the last 24 months will be automatically rejected for most Chase credit cards, that excellent credit notwithstanding.
Get a Credit Card Number with Good Credit
Although consumers with good credit aren’t quite as coveted as their excellent-credit counterparts, good-credit applicants are still in high demand by most credit card issuers thanks to their strong credit histories and the lack of any serious red flags on their credit reports.
As such, you’ll find a wide range of options available to you with good credit, including many of the top cash back credit cards and a range of quality travel rewards cards, too. Plus, you’ll have access to a number of good rewards cards that come without any annual fees, potentially saving you hundreds each year.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for good credit based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for good credit based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers–only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
Apply and you could get a decision in as little as 60 seconds. No annual fee.
Start shopping and earning rewards in minutes with our digital card, before your physical card arrives in the mail, if eligible.
Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 18.74% to 27.74% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for good credit based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for good credit based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for good credit based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for good credit based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
$0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.74% - 29.74% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
One of the most common differentiations between a good credit profile and an excellent profile is the length of credit history and average age of accounts. While only worth 15% of your FICO score, these factors can only be improved by time, which make them harder to grow than other parts of your score.
That said, you can still potentially reach credit score greatness by maintaining low balances, being modest about how frequently you apply for new credit, and by ensuring you always pay on time. With healthy credit behaviors — and some time — you can boost your good credit score to the top level.
Get a Credit Card Number with Fair Credit
Fair credit happens when you’re just beginning your credit journey — or have been working on rebuilding your credit after a few wrong turns. Consumers with fair credit typically have limited credit profiles, high card balances, or a semi-recent late payment or two.
Given that most issuers see a fair credit score as a sign of fairly high credit risk, the options for getting a credit card number are a bit limited. That said, there are still a number of prime unsecured credit cards and rewards-rich secured cards that can be had to help build your score.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for fair credit based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for fair credit based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for fair credit based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for fair credit based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
No credit score required to apply.
Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
No annual fee and build your credit with responsible use.
0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 17.74% - 26.74% applies.
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
4.8/5.0
About this rating
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for fair credit based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
4.5/5.0
About this rating
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for fair credit based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
No rotating categories or limits to how much you can earn, and cash back doesn't expire for the life of the account. It's that simple
Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
Help strengthen your credit for the future with responsible card use
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
Once you have your new credit card in hand, it’s important to use it responsibly so you can build up your fair credit score into a good one. The most important step is to make all of your payments on time, ensuring you make at least the minimum required payment (but more is always better).
You’ll also want to avoid any negative financial behaviors that could drop your score into the bad credit range, further limiting your options. Steer clear of maxing out your new card, and avoid opening too many new credit accounts at once. Slow and steady wins the credit race.
Get a Credit Card Number with Poor Credit
The bottom of the credit score rankings, those consumers with poor credit tend to have reports with recent delinquent payments, defaulted accounts, or perhaps even bankruptcy discharges. Since these are all red flags to issuers, bad-credit consumers will have the hardest time qualifying for a credit card number.
But while the field of options is limited, it isn’t empty. Subprime issuers who specialize in bad credit lending offer many unsecured card options, albeit with higher fees. And if you’re willing to make a refundable deposit, you can even find secured options that have low fees and/or purchase rewards.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for bad credit based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
Educational resources offered
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for bad credit based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
Educational resources offered
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Greater access to credit than before - $700 credit limit
Get a Mastercard accepted online, in store and in app
Account history is reported to the three major credit bureaus in the U.S.
$0 liability* for unauthorized use
Access your account online or from your mobile device 24/7
*Fraud protection provided by Mastercard Zero Liability Protection. If approved, you'll receive the Mastercard Guide to Benefits that details the complete terms with your card.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for bad credit based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
Educational resources offered
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for bad credit based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
Educational resources offered
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for bad credit based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
Educational resources offered
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for bad credit based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
Educational resources offered
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Adjustable credit limit based on what you transfer from your Chime Checking account to the secured deposit account
No interest* or annual fees
To apply for Credit Builder, you must have an active Chime® Checking Account. See official application, terms, and details link below.
The secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Card is issued by The Bankcorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted.
*Out-of-network ATM withdrawal and OTC advance fees may apply. ViewThe Bancorp agreement orStride agreementfor details; see back of card for issuer.
When deciding what type of credit card to obtain to build up your bad credit score, carefully consider both the obvious and hidden costs. Unsecured credit cards may not require a deposit, but most subprime cards will have high APRs and annual fees, plus additional processing or program fees.
Secured credit card deposits, on the other hand, are fully refundable so long as your account remains in good standing. Some secured cards can also be upgraded to unsecured products as your credit improves, saving you a hard inquiry down the line.
Whichever way you go, be sure to practice good financial habits with your new (and any existing) card. Always, always, always pay on time, making at least the minimum required payment — or, better, more than the minimum.
Get a Credit Card Number with No/Limited Credit
Perhaps the greatest catch-22 of the credit world is that you often need credit to get credit. And while it only takes six months of credit history to be eligible for a credit score, a credit history of less than a year will typically be seen as a bad sign by most issuers.
Most — but not all. Some credit card issuers are happy to help out the credit newcomers, offering entry-level cards designed specifically to help those with no or limited credit get the credit cards they need to build up their score.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for no or limited credit history based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for no or limited credit history based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for no or limited credit history based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for no or limited credit history based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Adjustable credit limit based on what you transfer from your Chime Checking account to the secured deposit account
No interest* or annual fees
To apply for Credit Builder, you must have an active Chime® Checking Account. See official application, terms, and details link below.
The secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Card is issued by The Bankcorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted.
*Out-of-network ATM withdrawal and OTC advance fees may apply. ViewThe Bancorp agreement orStride agreementfor details; see back of card for issuer.
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
4.7/5.0
About this rating
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for no or limited credit history based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
4.6/5.0
About this rating
Our in-house experts rate credit cards for no or limited credit history based on:
The regular APR
Annual and other fees
Ease of approval
Rewards offered
Credit bureau reporting
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Without an extensive credit history to mask any mistakes, it can be all too easy to go from no credit to bad credit with a single delinquent payment. Making use of modern technology, like automatic payments and payment-tracking apps, can make all the difference.
Of course, you don’t have to fear that every day-late payment will crash your credit score. Unless your payment is 30-days late (or more), it won’t be reported to the credit bureaus or show up on your credit reports. You’ll probably be stuck paying a hefty late-payment fee, however.
Get a Store Credit Card Number
Although most store credit cards are closed-loop cards, meaning they can only be used to make branded purchases, they can still be worthwhile additions to your credit card number collection if you have a favorite brand and are a frequent shopper.
In addition to purchase rewards or special financing, store credit card numbers can also unlock extra brand bonuses, like free shipping or early sale access. Plus, many store credit cards have flexible credit requirements that make them accessible to those with lower credit scores.
Amazon.com Store Card
The Amazon.com Store Card is mediocre at best for non-Prime members, offering only deferred-interest financing. If you have a Prime account, however, you can earn 5% cash back on every Amazon.com purchase.
Receive special financing on eligible Amazon.com orders of $149 or more made with your card
Amazon Prime members get 5% cash back on Amazon purchases
Pay no annual card fee (Prime fee may apply)
While the card itself doesn’t charge an annual fee, you’ll need to pay for a Prime membership to make the most of it, the price of which has jumped by 10% or more every few years.
Unlike most store cards, the Target REDcard doesn’t provide points on every purchase. Instead, you’ll get 5% off eligible Target purchases at the register or online check-out.
Get 5% off your total purchase at checkout for eligible in-store or online Target purchases
Receive exclusive deals & discounts
Pay no annual fee
Certain purchases won’t qualify for the 5% cardholder discount, including gift card purchases, in-store restaurants (like Starbucks), gift wrapping, and shipping charges.
The My Best Buy Credit Card allows cardholders to earn 2.5X points per dollar spent on eligible in-store and online purchases. Every 250 points can be redeemed for a $5 reward certificate.
Earn 2.5X points per dollar on in-store and online Best Buy purchases
Receive special financing deals on eligible purchases
Pay no annual fee
If you use the special financing deal, be sure to pay it off in full before your due date. Best Buy uses deferred interest, which means you’ll be on the hook for interest on the entire purchase if any of the balance remains unpaid when the terms expire.
It can be really tempting to open a new store credit card while checking out, especially when the clerk makes the card sound so fantastic. But store card reviews are full of consumers who thought they were getting one thing — and ended up with something much more expensive.
Before opening any credit card, even a store card with a shiny signup bonus, be sure you do your own research into what the card offers — and what it doesn’t offer.
This can be particularly important when looking to take advantage of a low- or no-interest offer, as store cards often operate with deferred financing, which can end up costing you hundreds if your financed purchase is not paid off in time.
Get a Virtual Credit Card Number
While EMV chip cards have made card present (CP) credit card fraud less common, those tricksy fraudsters have simply refocused their efforts on card-not-present (CNP), or digital, card fraud.
One popular way of combating CNP fraud is through the use of virtual credit cards, which are randomly generated one-time use (or one-merchant use) credit card numbers that limit access to your real account information. Despite its growing popularity, however, only a handful of issuers offer virtual credit card numbers.
Our in-house experts rate credit card offers based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
General approval rates
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house experts rate credit card offers based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel and other credits
General approval rates
Issuer reputation
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
Our in-house credit card experts rate Citi® offers based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel insurance and credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Our in-house credit card experts rate Citi® offers based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel insurance and credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, a special travel offer, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/25.
Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness.
Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
4.9/5.0
About this rating
Our in-house credit card experts rate Bank of America® cards based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel insurance and credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
4.9/5.0
About this rating
Our in-house credit card experts rate Bank of America® cards based on:
Reward rates and redemptions
Regular and promotional APRs
Signup bonuses
Annual and other fees
Travel insurance and credits
We also consider other cardholder needs and data points specific to the category. We then compare it to similar card offers and evaluate the terms before assigning a numerical value, in which 5.0 represents the best. Ratings are updated as issuer changes occur, and issuers have no influence on our ratings.
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases.
Choose 3% cash back on gas and EV charging station, online shopping/cable/internet/phone plan/streaming, dining, travel, drug store/pharmacy or home improvement/furnishings purchases.
If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 3.75%-5.25% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
See Terms (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 4%)
See Terms
$0
Excellent/Good
Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.
In addition to some of the major credit card issuers, several third-party companies have come onto the virtual credit card scene — although “credit card” may be the wrong term, as most of these programs act more like prepaid cards than actual credit cards.
Regardless of where you get your virtual credit card number, there is one important thing to remember: your virtual credit card is only as safe as the company that issues it. Since no company is too large to be hacked, be aware of the risks before you buy.
How to Protect Your New Card Number from Fraud
In today’s world, not having access to a credit card number can exclude you from any number of products and services, making it worthwhile to have at least one good card in your wallet.
But while credit cards have a ton of great benefits, they are subject to fraud just like any other financial product. Luckily, the law limits your liability for fraudulent credit card purchases, and most card companies will eliminate your financial liability entirely.
Even so, it’s important to practice safe credit card use; fraud protection takes diligence on all sides. Never give your credit card number to a website or business you don’t trust and always keep an eye on your transactions so you can spot unauthorized purchases.
If you do find charges you don’t recognize, report them promptly to your credit card issuer. The sooner fraud is spotted, the easier it is to keep it from escalating.
Advertiser Disclosure
CardRates.com is a free online resource that offers valuable content and comparison services to users. To keep this resource 100% free, we receive compensation for referrals for many of the offers listed on the site. Along with key review factors, this compensation may impact how and where products appear across CardRates.com (including, for example, the order in which they appear). CardRates.com does not include the entire universe of available offers. Editorial opinions expressed on the site are strictly our own and are not provided, endorsed, or approved by advertisers.
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