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.
With a history that stretches back over 200 years, the versatile pro-con list has long been used to simplify the decision-making process. And while the pro-con list is not without its controversies — as described by this pro-con list about pro-con lists — it remains a popular practice for analyzing both parts of a problem to aid decision-making.
Keep reading to learn about the pros and cons of a credit card. If you’re on the fence about whether to get a new credit card, a pro-con list may be the perfect way to compare the ups and downs to help come to a decision. To help get you started, we’ve put together six pros and cons of using a credit card, with tips for how to maximize your pros, as well as how to avoid cons that can ruin your credit card experience.
Given that we have over a billion credit cards being used in the U.S. alone, it’s pretty safe to say the Pros of credit card usage outweigh the Cons for the majority of people. But who wants to do something simply because everyone else is doing it? Instead, investigate the Pros below to get an idea of the perks and benefits you can receive from using a credit card to make your purchases.
1. Pro: Convenient & Secure Shopping
The first Pro on the list is likely why credit cards took off as a payment method to begin with: the convenience and security of paying with plastic. Compared to cash or even paper checks, credit cards are significantly less bulky — no stacks of paper or heavy, jangling coins to carry — as well as generally being a faster (and often easier) way to pay.
For one, rather than counting out change or scrawling names and totals on a check, credit card payments can sometimes be as easy as swiping, tapping, or inserting your card into the reader before you’re on your way. Even those that require further verification often take less than 30 seconds to process, then you simply sign and go.
Purchases made by credit card also provide an extra level of security versus cash or check purchases, as you typically have the option to dispute a charge with your issuer if your product or experience wasn’t as promised and the merchant won’t settle up.
Additionally, while a thief can easily spend the cash they pilfer from your pocket, the law limits your liability for fraudulent credit card purchases. What’s more, most major credit card issuers take fraud protection to the next level by eliminating that liability altogether. In fact, all of the following issuers have $0 fraud liability policies in place.
Scoring second only to American Express in customer service, Discover is also a top pick for many cardholders looking to maximize their cash back rewards — without being weighed down by unnecessary fees. Discover’s entire line of credit cards offer cash back rewards or miles on every purchase.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. 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 cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. Then 17.49% to 26.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
UNLIMITED BONUS: Unlimited mile-for-mile match for all new cardmembers. Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. There’s no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a mile-for-mile match. You could turn 35,000 miles into 70,000 miles.
Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x miles on every dollar of every purchase
No annual fee.
Turn miles into cash. Or redeem as a statement credit for your travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants, and more.
0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. Then 17.49% to 26.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR will apply.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. 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.
Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. You'll still earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Get a 0% intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers. Then 17.49% to 26.49% Standard Variable APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
Most famous for its long-standing “What’s in your wallet?” advertising slogan, Capital One has made its mark on the credit card industry by offering blackout-free travel rewards and a range of cash back card options. All of Capital One’s credit cards can be used to score a discount on drinks at your local Capital One Café.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
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, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
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; 18.49% - 28.49% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Chase has a long banking history stretching back to 1799 and a New York City that, even then, was a bustling destination. Today’s Chase is one of the largest credit card issuers in the world, with a credit card selection sure to appeal to just about any cardholder, including lucrative rewards cards and popular balance transfer cards.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Intro Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99% - 28.49%.
No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
Member FDIC
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR on Purchases 15 months
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers 15 months
Regular APR18.99% - 28.49% Variable
Annual Fee$0
Credit NeededGood/Excellent
Additional Disclosure: Non-Monetized. The information related to Chase Freedom Unlimited® was collected by CardRates and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product/card. Product details may vary. Please see issuer website for current information. CardRates does not receive commission for this product.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.24% - 27.99%.
No annual fee - You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex℠ card
Keep tabs on your credit health - Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR on Purchases 15 months
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers 15 months
Regular APR19.24% - 27.99% Variable
Annual Fee$0
Credit NeededGood/Excellent
Additional Disclosure: Non-Monetized. The information related to Chase Freedom Flex℠ was collected by CardRates and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product/card. Product details may vary. Please see issuer website for current information. CardRates does not receive commission for this product.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
Member FDIC
Intro (Purchases)N/A
Intro (Transfers)N/A
Regular APR19.99% - 28.24% Variable
Annual Fee$95
Credit NeededGood/Excellent
Additional Disclosure: Non-Monetized. The information related to Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card was collected by CardRates and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product/card. Product details may vary. Please see issuer website for current information. CardRates does not receive commission for this product.
Not only can Bank of America trace its banking legacy back over 200 years, but the company also pioneered the mass-market consumer credit card in 1958 with its first BankAmericard. The modern Bank of America still maintains a strong foothold in the consumer credit card industry, issuing a number of its own credit cards in addition to several co-branded options.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
4.9/5.0
About this rating
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice. You’ll automatically earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, then earn unlimited 1% thereafter. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
Select your card design option when you apply – the Customized Cash Rewards design, or the limited-time FIFA World Cup 2026™ design.
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee$0
Credit NeededExcellent/Good
Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
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.
Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on everyday purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
Earn 3 points per $1 spent on travel purchases booked through the Bank of America Travel Center.
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.
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee$0
Credit NeededExcellent/Good
Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.
Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card
4.7/5.0
About this rating
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn 2% cash back on purchases for the first year from account opening, with no limit to the amount of cash back you can earn.
Thereafter, you’ll earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, with no expiration on rewards as long as your account remains open.
No annual fee.
Select your card design option when you apply – the Unlimited Cash Rewards design, or the limited-time FIFA World Cup 2026™ design.
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee$0
Credit NeededExcellent/Good
Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.
The bank today known as Wells Fargo was originally founded by William Fargo and Henry Wells, two prominent figures in the financial industry of their time who also had a hand in the creation of other industry mainstays, including American Express. These days, Wells Fargo is a prominent consumer bank issuing a range of credit cards for consumers of all types.
Imagine you had a magic universal rebate that was good on everything you bought and could be redeemed for things like cash, gift cards, or travel expenses. Welcome to the joys of credit card rewards. With any of the hundreds of rewards credit cards available on the market, you can earn valuable rewards on every card purchase.
The three types of credit card rewards you’ll run into when exploring cards are cash back, points, and travel or airline miles. Cash back is what it sounds like: you receive cash back for your purchases, typically in the form of a statement credit. Travel or airline miles can generally be redeemed toward travel-related expenses, like airline tickets or hotel stays. Most points programs offer both cash back and travel redemption options.
The actual amount of rewards you earn per $1 spent will vary based on the card you use, but the rewards structure will likely follow one of two systems: a) unlimited flat-rate rewards on every purchase or, b) scaling rewards that vary based on the category of the purchases. The key to maximizing your credit card rewards is to choose a rewards card that provides the highest earnings rates on the purchases you make most often.
For example, if you dine out frequently, a card that offers bonus rewards for restaurant purchases can be quite lucrative. However, if you cook most of your meals, a credit card offering bonus rewards for grocery purchases may prove a better value. In the case that the bulk of your spending doesn’t fall into any common categories, you may find a flat-rate card ends up providing the best rates.
Perfect for the frequent flyer or hotel hound, a travel rewards card can be a profitable investment if you travel regularly (or would like to start). Many of the most popular travel rewards programs are those with a large number of partners to whom you can transfer your travel rewards, transforming them into branded loyalty points or frequent flyer miles.
Some of the most flexible programs allow you to easily redeem travel rewards for a statement credit to cover travel-related card purchases. The exact list of travel-related expenses that your travel rewards can be redeemed for will depend on the particular issuer and program, though any travel card should include either airfare, hotel stays, or both.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge and Landing locations and participating Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn a one-time welcome bonus of 100,000 miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, everywhere, no limits or category restrictions, and miles won't expire for the life of the account
Receive up to $220 in credits: Receive an annual $50 travel credit for bookings through Capital One Business Travel, up to an annual $50 statement credit for purchases at qualifying advertising or software merchants, plus up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® every four years. Terms and conditions apply
Unlimited 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Business Travel
Transfer your miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs
Redeem your miles instantly for any travel-related purchases, from flights and hotels to ride-sharing services
$95 annual fee
Free employee cards which also earn unlimited 2X miles from their purchases
Despite the stories of churners flying around the world with travel rewards, cash back reigns supreme as America’s favorite type of credit card rewards — and with good reason. Not only are cash back rewards the most straightforward to redeem, but with the wide variety of cards offering up to 5% cash back for bonus category purchases, you could potentially maximize your cash back earnings with just a handful of cards.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
4.9/5.0
About this rating
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice. You’ll automatically earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, then earn unlimited 1% thereafter. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
Select your card design option when you apply – the Customized Cash Rewards design, or the limited-time FIFA World Cup 2026™ design.
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee$0
Credit NeededExcellent/Good
Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
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, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked with Citi Travel.
Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 17.49% - 27.49%, 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).
Intro (Purchases)N/A
Intro (Transfers)0% 18 months on Balance Transfers
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. 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 cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. Then 17.49% to 26.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
Often providing the best of both rewards world, credit cards that offer points tend to have the most versatile redemption options. Rewards points can typically be redeemed for any combination of cash back, gift cards, travel expense credits, and merchandise.
Points are a favorite of churners and other credit card rewards aficionados thanks to the ability to transfer earned points to travel partners to maximize the per-point value. For instance, Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be transformed into Marriott Rewards points or British Airways frequent flyer miles, among others.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
Earn 10 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
Earn 3 Points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
$100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn 20,000 bonus Points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months; after that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness. 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).
Earn 3 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent in an eligible Self-Select Category of your choice (Fitness Clubs, Select Streaming Services, Live Entertainment, Cosmetic Stores/Barber Shops/Hair Salons, or Pet Supply Stores). Choose your eligible Self-Select Category on Citi Online or by calling customer service. The default Self-Select Category is Select Streaming Services.
Earn 5 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals and Attractions booked on Citi Travel® via cititravel.com; earn 3 ThankYou Points for each $1 spent at Supermarkets, on Select Transit purchases, and at Gas & EV Charging Stations.
Earn 2 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent at Restaurants; earn 1 ThankYou® Point for each $1 spent on All Other Purchases.
No Annual Fee
Intro (Purchases)0% 15 months on Purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% 15 months on Balance Transfers
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn 75,000 bonus Points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
Earn 12 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on cititravel.com and 6 Points per $1 spent on Air Travel booked on cititravel.com
Earn 6 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants including Restaurant Delivery Services on CitiNights℠ purchases, every Friday and Saturday from 6 PM to 6 AM ET. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent any other time
Earn 1.5 Points per $1 spent on All Other Purchases
Up to $300 Annual Hotel Benefit: Each calendar year, enjoy up to $300 off a hotel stay of two nights or more when booked through cititravel.com.
The biggest catch-22 of the consumer credit world is probably the fact that you need credit to build credit. Without some sort of credit product reporting to at least one (but preferably all) of the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, TransUnion — you won’t establish a credit report and future creditors won’t be able to gauge your credit risk.
And about the only thing worse than having no credit history is having a bad credit history. A history rife with delinquent payments, defaulted accounts, or other negative items will result in a low credit score — and lenders that don’t want to lend to you.
When used responsibly, credit cards can be a great way to build (or rebuild) a positive credit history and, thus, a good credit score. What’s more, a variety of credit card companies, including a number of major issuers, have credit card products specifically designed for consumers in the various stages of the credit-building process.
Consumers with a FICO credit score between 580 and 669 are typically considered to have “Fair” credit, which is the just on the right side of the line between prime and subprime credit cards.
Depending on where you fall on the range of Fair credit scores, you may qualify for a prime card from a major issuer — but don’t expect the juiciest rewards or a completely fee-free experience. On the bright side, responsibly using your new card can help boost your credit score into the Good range within six months or so, broadening your card options tremendously.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
No annual or hidden fees. See if you're approved in seconds
Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
Help build your credit through responsible use of a card like this
Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It's free for everyone
Get access to your account 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with online banking from your desktop or smartphone, with Capital One's mobile app
Check out quickly and securely with a contactless card, without touching a terminal or handing your card to a cashier. Just hover your card over a contactless reader, wait for the confirmation, and you're all set
Pay by check, online or at a local branch, all with no fee - and pick the monthly due date that works best for you
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn unlimited 3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services, plus 1% on all other purchases
No rotating categories or limits to how much you can earn, and you can use your cash back for any amount–get gift cards, cover purchases or redeem for cash. Plus, rewards don’t expire for the life of the account
Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
Help strengthen your credit for the future with responsible card usage
Enjoy unlimited access to your credit score and tools to help you monitor your credit profile with CreditWise from Capital One
Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases with your SavorOne Card and enjoy exclusive access and cardholder perks
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
Capital One SavorOne cardholders can pay with their rewards via PayPal Pay with Rewards and at Amazon.com
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
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 $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200.
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 cash back for any amount
No credit score required to apply.
No annual fee and build credit with responsible use.
0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 16.49% - 25.49% applies.
When your FICO credit score falls below 580, your credit is officially “Bad.” This means most prime credit card issuers won’t feel comfortable offering you unsecured credit, so your credit card options will likely be limited to secured credit cards or subprime unsecured credit cards.
The main difference between secured and unsecured credit cards is that secured credit cards require a security deposit to open the account, and that deposit determines your credit limit. Unsecured cards won’t require a deposit, but most subprime unsecured credit cards will require a program or processing fee to open your account, in addition to an annual or maintenance fee.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
With no credit history — or even a very limited one — credit card issuers won’t have a way to gauge your potential risk, which means they’ll typically assume the worst. That said, a number of cards are designed specifically for those establishing credit for the first time, including credit cards aimed directly at students (though you don’t always need to be a student to qualify for student credit cards).
In many ways, consumers with no/limited credit histories have the easiest credit-building journey ahead of them, as they don’t need to wait for old negative items to age off their reports or pay down outstanding debts to see credit score improvements. With just six months or so of responsible credit card use, you can go from no credit to Fair or even Good credit, expanding your credit card options in the process.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
The secured Self Visa® Credit Card* requires no credit check or minimum score.
Reports to all 3 major credit bureaus to establish and build credit, with free access to your credit score.
Secure your credit line with a refundable security deposit as low as $100.**
Deposits are returned upon account closure after settling outstanding balances.
*The secured Self Visa® Credit Card is issued by Lead Bank, Sunrise Banks, N.A., or First Century Bank, N.A., each Member FDIC.
**Qualification for the secured Self Visa® Credit Card is based on meeting eligibility requirements, including income and expense requirements and establishment of security interest. Criteria subject to change.
Intro (Purchases)N/A
Intro (Transfers)N/A
Regular APRVariable APR of 27.49%
Annual Fee$0 annual fee for the first year only, $25 annual fee thereafter
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
No annual or hidden fees. See if you're approved in seconds
Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
Help build your credit through responsible use of a card like this
Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It's free for everyone
Get access to your account 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with online banking from your desktop or smartphone, with Capital One's mobile app
Check out quickly and securely with a contactless card, without touching a terminal or handing your card to a cashier. Just hover your card over a contactless reader, wait for the confirmation, and you're all set
Pay by check, online or at a local branch, all with no fee - and pick the monthly due date that works best for you
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
2% cash back on category of choice with direct deposit***
The perks of credit building meet the best of banking****
Chime Checking Account required to apply for the Chime Visa® Credit Card
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC. The secured Chime Visa® Credit Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A. pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank.
*Money added to Chime CardTM will be held in a secured deposit account as collateral for your Chime Card, and you can spend up to this amount. You can use money deposited in your Secured Deposit Account to pay off your charges at the end of every month.
**Out-of-network ATM withdrawal and over the counter advance fees may apply.
***With a qualifying direct deposit, earn 2% cash back on category of choice on eligible secured Chime Visa® Credit Card purchases.
****On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Results may vary.
Of course, few things in life are entirely positive, even in the eyes of the most optimistic of consumers — credit cards included. In fact, the Cons of credit card use can be just as numerous as the Pros — particularly when they are misused. That said, many of the Cons of credit card use can be avoided by selecting the right card (and using it responsibly).
4. Con: The Potential Fees
Perhaps the first thing that most people think of when considering the Cons of credit cards are the associated fees. Between the annual fees, balance transfer fees, cash advance fees, interest fees, foreign transaction fees, and late fees, it can feel as though you can’t even look at a credit card without having to pay a fee.
And those fees can certainly add up. The typical late fee is $30 or more a pop, annual fees can range into the hundreds of dollars, and balance transfer fees can be as much as 5% of the total amount transferred. On the bright side, most of the fees associated with credit card use can be easily avoided through responsible card use and understanding the fee structures.
For example, late fees are among the easiest to avoid simply by ensuring you pay on time each billing cycle. You don’t need to pay your balance in full to avoid a late fee, just make at least your minimum payment by (or, preferably, before) the due date. And since nearly every bank allows automatic payments these days, you can even automate your bills to avoid paying late due to forgetting a date, going out of town, or other events.
Additionally, a number of card fees, such as annual fees, balance transfer fees, and foreign transaction fees, can all be avoided through careful card selection. While you may end up trading rewards or other perks for a card with fewer fees, you may come out ahead, depending on your card use.
A factor for a great many cards, regardless of credit score demographic, annual fees are often charged as a way for the issuer to cover the cost of certain credit card benefits, such as purchase rewards or travel perks. In most cases, the more benefits a card offers, the higher the annual fee it charges, with fees north of $400 not unheard of for the most exclusive cards.
While it can sometimes be worthwhile to pay an annual fee for more valuable benefits, you don’t need to shell out big bucks on annual fees to obtain a quality rewards credit card. A great many cards are available that provide cash back, points, or miles at a solid rate without charging you an annual fee.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Intro Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99% - 28.49%.
No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
Member FDIC
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR on Purchases 15 months
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers 15 months
Regular APR18.99% - 28.49% Variable
Annual Fee$0
Credit NeededGood/Excellent
Additional Disclosure: Non-Monetized. The information related to Chase Freedom Unlimited® was collected by CardRates and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product/card. Product details may vary. Please see issuer website for current information. CardRates does not receive commission for this product.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. 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 cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. Then 17.49% to 26.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
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, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
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; 18.49% - 28.49% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
When done properly, a successful balance transfer can lower your interest rates and make it easier to pay down your credit card debt. Unfortunately, the vast majority of credit cards will charge a balance transfer fee for the service, and the card to which you transfer your balance will likely charge between 3% and 5% of the total transferred amount as a balance transfer fee.
The best (read: only) way to avoid a balance transfer fee — other than avoiding balance transfers — is to transfer your balance to a card that doesn’t charge a fee. These cards can be found more frequently in small community banks or credit unions.
How to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees
Although coalitions like the European Union (EU) have tried to minimize the need to change currencies at the border, in most cases, each time you enter a new country you’ll be dealing with an entirely new currency. While this can be very complicated with paper money, credit cards have made purchasing abroad simpler by doing the currency conversion for you in many cases.
The downside to all this convenience is that many cards will charge you foreign transaction fees for the service of converting your purchase into the proper currency, typically 2% to 4% of your purchase total. As with balance transfers, the only real way to avoid foreign transaction fees is to select a card without them. Happily, a variety of cards, including many travel rewards cards, are foreign-transaction-fee-free.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
Member FDIC
Intro (Purchases)N/A
Intro (Transfers)N/A
Regular APR19.99% - 28.24% Variable
Annual Fee$95
Credit NeededGood/Excellent
Additional Disclosure: Non-Monetized. The information related to Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card was collected by CardRates and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product/card. Product details may vary. Please see issuer website for current information. CardRates does not receive commission for this product.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
UNLIMITED BONUS: Unlimited mile-for-mile match for all new cardmembers. Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. There’s no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a mile-for-mile match. You could turn 35,000 miles into 70,000 miles.
Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x miles on every dollar of every purchase
No annual fee.
Turn miles into cash. Or redeem as a statement credit for your travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants, and more.
0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. Then 17.49% to 26.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR will apply.
One of the main sources of profit for credit card issuers — and pain for credit cardholders — is the interest charged on balances carried from month to month. With an average interest rate around 16%, this can mean hundreds or thousands of dollars a year if you carry large balances.
Overall, the high interest rates charged by credit cards are a reflection of the fact that credit cards were not designed to carry long-term debt. Anything that you need several years to pay off should be financed through loans — or savings — not credit cards.
Instead, credit cards are designed to provide short-term financing, so the rates they charge are higher than those for longer-term loans. While these interest rates can be costly to those who misuse credit cards, there’s a simple and easy way for responsible cardholders to avoid interest fees entirely: the grace period.
The period of time between when a purchase is made and when the bill for that purchase is due is called the grace period. If you pay off your purchase before the end of the grace period, you won’t be charged interest on that purchase. Simple.
Of course, the grace period doesn’t solve all interest fee woes. The grace period doesn’t apply to balance transfers, for example, nor does it help those who simply need to carry a balance from time to time. But that doesn’t mean those consumers are out of luck. With a little research — and good to excellent credit — you’ll often find that great interest rate deals are plentiful.
One of the many ways in which credit card companies compete for the best applicants is through introductory offers. Similar to a signup bonus, intro-APR offers provide an initial incentive to new applicants by providing a low — or, often, zero — APR on new purchases for some set period of time after you open your account (typically 12 months or more, but some of the best offers can be over 18-months long).
If you know you have a large purchase on the horizon and you may need a few months — or a year and a half — to pay it off, a credit card with an intro-APR offer can save you a lot of money in interest charges. What’s more, if the card offers rewards, you’ll earn cash back, points, or miles for those purchases, too. Select a card with no annual fee to really stack the savings.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
New! 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 14.99% - 25.99% will apply. A 5% fee applies to all balance transfers. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
No annual fee.
No penalty APR. Paying late won't automatically raise your interest rate (APR). Other account pricing and terms apply.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 5% of the amount of each transaction)
Regular APR14.99% - 25.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
4.9/5.0
About this rating
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice. You’ll automatically earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, then earn unlimited 1% thereafter. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
Select your card design option when you apply – the Customized Cash Rewards design, or the limited-time FIFA World Cup 2026™ design.
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee$0
Credit NeededExcellent/Good
Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Earn 20,000 bonus Points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months; after that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness. 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).
Earn 3 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent in an eligible Self-Select Category of your choice (Fitness Clubs, Select Streaming Services, Live Entertainment, Cosmetic Stores/Barber Shops/Hair Salons, or Pet Supply Stores). Choose your eligible Self-Select Category on Citi Online or by calling customer service. The default Self-Select Category is Select Streaming Services.
Earn 5 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals and Attractions booked on Citi Travel® via cititravel.com; earn 3 ThankYou Points for each $1 spent at Supermarkets, on Select Transit purchases, and at Gas & EV Charging Stations.
Earn 2 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent at Restaurants; earn 1 ThankYou® Point for each $1 spent on All Other Purchases.
No Annual Fee
Intro (Purchases)0% 15 months on Purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% 15 months on Balance Transfers
For those who are already struggling with high-interest credit card debt, transferring the balance to a lower-interest card can make all the difference in getting that debt paid off. Many of the best introductory balance transfer offers provide a 0% APR on transferred balances for 12 months or more, with offers often extending up to 18 months.
Be sure to check if your intro-APR balance transfer offer includes a break on the balance transfer fee; most offers don’t, so you’ll still be on the line for 3% to 5% of your balance (depending on the card). Often, despite the balance transfer fee, going from the average 16% APR down to a 0% APR can save you thousands. Choose a balance transfer card that doesn’t charge an annual fee to save even more.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
New! 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 14.99% - 25.99% will apply. A 5% fee applies to all balance transfers. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
No annual fee.
No penalty APR. Paying late won't automatically raise your interest rate (APR). Other account pricing and terms apply.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 5% of the amount of each transaction)
Regular APR14.99% - 25.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months and on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening. After that the variable APR will be 16.49% - 27.24%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
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).
No Annual Fee - our low intro rates and all the benefits don't come with a yearly charge.
Buy now and pay later. Split your payment for eligible purchases of $75 or more into a fixed payment with Citi® Flex Pay.
Get free access to your FICO® Score online.
Intro (Purchases)0% 12 months on Purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% 21 months on Balance Transfers
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
New! 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 14.99% - 25.99% will apply. A 5% fee applies to all balance transfers. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
No annual fee.
No penalty APR. Paying late won't automatically raise your interest rate (APR). Other account pricing and terms apply.
When handled responsibly, a credit card can help you build your credit history, which could be helpful when looking for an apartment, a car loan, and even a job.
This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases)0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers)0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 5% of the amount of each transaction)
Regular APR14.99% - 25.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
If introductory-APR offers have one particular flaw, it’s likely that they are introductory; once the offer terms expire, that pretty little interest rate turns back into a regular two-digit APR like Cinderella’s coach turning back into a pumpkin. If your need to sometimes carry a balance stretches farther than an intro-APR offer will get you, the solution may be a card with a low ongoing APR.
Since the APR you’re offered is strongly influenced by your credit score, a “low” interest rate is somewhat relative, and will be based on your credit profile. Those with the highest scores will typically qualify for the lowest interest rates, but nearly any reduction in your current APR will likely save you money if you tend to a carry a balance.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on Balance Transfers and Convenience Checks that post to your account within 90 days of account opening. After this time, the Variable Regular APR will apply to your balance.
Our lowest-rate card: Pay less in interest if you carry a balance from month to month
Travel benefits include Auto Rental Coverage, Travel Accident Insurance, Baggage Delay and Reimbursement, and Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage
No annual fee or foreign transaction fees
This offer is only open to members of military-affiliated groups and their families
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. 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 cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. Then 17.49% to 26.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
Our experts rate credit card offers based on factors like rewards, APRs, signup bonuses, fees, and approval rates, with a focus on benefits that provide the best value. We also consider cardholder needs such as credit-building potential, issuer reputation, and customer service. Our ratings are unbiased, updated regularly, and not influenced by issuers.
No annual fee, foreign transaction fee, balance transfer fee, or cash advance fees
Must meet eligibility criteria to join Digital Federal Credit Union
Fraud notifications and the ability to freeze/unfreeze your credit card
When you add your DCU credit or debit card to your Mobile Wallet and make a purchase, your personal information is encrypted – so even if retailer is hacked, your cards won’t be compromised
As with any other credit product, credit cards represent a line of credit that is extended to the consumer. When you make a purchase with your credit card, you are essentially borrowing that money from the card’s issuing bank — with the understanding that you’ll need to repay that debt.
If you use credit cards to make purchases you can’t really afford, you can easily start to accumulate credit card debt. If that debt goes unpaid from month to month, it will start to accumulate interest fees. For those who make only the minimum required payment, the addition of interest fees on top of debt can create an untenable (and sometimes inescapable) situation.
The easiest way to avoid the accumulation of credit card debt is to simply pay off your entire credit card balance each month. This can be accomplished easily by only using your credit cards to make purchases for which you already have the money saved. Not only does this responsible use help you avoid accumulating debt, but you’ll also avoid interest fees and likely improve your credit score. Using your credit card for routine purchases then paying it off each month to avoid interest is also a great way to take advantage of points and rewards programs offered by card issuers.
Even if you can’t pay off the entire balance each month, don’t get trapped in the cycle of paying only the necessary minimum. Required minimum payments are not designed to pay off your debt efficiently or quickly; rather, they’re intended to be somewhat affordable so you’ll continue to bring the company profit through interest charges.
In the event that your credit card debt has gotten out of hand, your best solution may be to consolidate and refinance through a personal installment loan. Because installment loans are specifically designed to finance longer-term debt, they often provide lower interest rates than revolving credit lines, like credit cards, and will typically have repayment periods extending as long as seven years.
Best Credit Card Consolidation Loans
When done right, credit card consolidation can not only help organize your debt by putting it all under one loan, but will also provide a lower APR and, thus, help lower your monthly payment. Consolidation loans can also help stem the accumulation of more debt, as you can’t add new purchases to a loan as you can a credit card with a balance.
As you compare personal loans, look at more than just the monthly payment; you should also investigate the APR and length of the loan, as these factors are what decide your monthly payment. While longer loans will give you the lowest monthly payments, they’ll also end up costing you the most overall thanks to interest charges. Balance the overall cost of your loan with an affordable monthly payment for the best results.
According to Benjamin Franklin, to whom is given the credit for the pro-con list’s invention over 200 years ago, making the list is only the first step to coming to a decision. Once you have your pros and cons laid out, you should go through each item on your lists and look for pairs of pros and cons that effectively cancel each other out in your estimation. Once you’ve eliminated what you can, you’re left with the true balance of the problem.
For millions of cardholders around the world, the pros and cons of credit card use are easy to weigh, with the pros winning the battle — and the war. Of course, everyone’s financial situation, credit history, and financial goals are unique. The decision of whether to join the ranks of credit cardholders is entirely up to you. Only you can decide if the pros of using a credit card outweigh the cons. If you do conclude that having a credit card is the right step for you, the list above may come in handy for circumventing some of the legwork that comes with identifying potential cards that are a good fit for you.
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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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