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Credit Cards

  2. Meet Arro: The Credit Card That Rewards You for Learning

    Meet Arro: The Credit Card That Rewards You for Learning

    Amanda Peterson September 8, 2025  •  3 Minute Read

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    Arro is a credit card built to level the playing field with no credit history required, 1% cash back on essentials, and credit lines that grow with good habits. Its AI coach, Artie, guides users with personalized tips and real-time support to build lasting financial skills.

  4. The Indigo® Mastercard®: Your Gateway to a Fresh Financial Start

    The Indigo® Mastercard®: Your Gateway to a Fresh Financial Start

    Amanda Peterson May 22, 2025  •  2 Minute Read

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    The Indigo® Mastercard® is designed for people with less-than-perfect credit, offering a $700 limit with no security deposit or application fee. It helps users build credit by reporting to major bureaus and fits a variety of lifestyles. Easy eligibility and wide acceptance make it a solid choice for a fresh financial start.

  7. The Easiest Way to Start Building Credit

    The Easiest Way to Start Building Credit

    Amanda Peterson January 17, 2025  •  4 Minute Read

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    Your credit’s not great, but CreditSoup has a plan! Secured credit cards are valuable tools for individuals with poor or no credit history to establish or rebuild their credit. First Latitude Assent Mastercard and First Progress Platinum Select are two great options to start with.

  8. Best Credit Cards for 2025

    Best Credit Cards for 2025

    Amanda Peterson January 9, 2025  •  2 Minute Read

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

  9. 5 Best Rewards Cards for Your Massive Daycare Bill

    5 Best Rewards Cards for Your Massive Daycare Bill

    Holly Johnson December 22, 2024  •  4 Minute Read

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

  10. Cyber Monday Extended Deals: Where to Shop and What to Buy

    Cyber Monday Extended Deals: Where to Shop and What to Buy

    Amanda Peterson December 2, 2024  •  2 Minute Read

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    Many retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and Target, extend their Cyber Monday deals into "Cyber Week," offering discounts on electronics, home goods, and holiday gifts. These extended sales often run through Friday or longer, giving shoppers more time to snag great deals on popular items before they sell out.

  12. 5 Affordable Fall Fashion Credit Tips

    5 Affordable Fall Fashion Credit Tips

    Amanda Peterson October 1, 2024  •  3 Minute Read

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    Can't wear white after Labor Day? Sure you can. With the right credit card strategies, you can fill your closet with fashionable finds while keeping your budget in check. CreditSoup offers up 5 tips keep your fall fashion refresh affordable.

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

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

    Holly Johnson September 7, 2024  •  4 Minute Read

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

  14. Your Top 3 Travel Cards for Summertime Fun

    Your Top 3 Travel Cards for Summertime Fun

    CreditSoup Staff July 28, 2024  •  5 Minute Read

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    Vacations and summer. They go together like sunscreen and coconut scent, hot dogs and mustard, and tropical drinks and decorative umbrellas. From cash rewards to travel points, here are a few favorite credit cards for summer travel from CreditSoup.

  19. How to Choose the Right Credit Card for Your Needs

    How to Choose the Right Credit Card for Your Needs

    Kirsten Thuringer June 16, 2024  •  2 Minute Read

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    What kind of credit card do I really need? CreditSoup has the deets here. From a small business to a someone just starting out, we answer those tough question. One of the first — and most important — steps of any job is deciding which tool will be most effective for that task.

  22. Easy Eco-Tips for Your Wallet and the Planet

    Easy Eco-Tips for Your Wallet and the Planet

    Amanda Peterson April 22, 2024  •  1 Minute Read

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    Save money and the planet! Learn easy ways to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle that benefits your wallet and the environment. From reducing paper waste to using reusable items, this CreditSoup blog offers practical tips to go green.

  23. Pay Bills On-Time With AutoPay

    Pay Bills On-Time With AutoPay

    Amanda Peterson April 17, 2024  •  2 Minute Read

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    Not only will this help you build your credit, it will help you prioritize paying bills and give you a better grasp on what you have left to spend for the month. CreditSoup's Wise Spend Wednesday tip is to Use AutoPay.

  25. Women in Finance and the Cards They Carry

    Women in Finance and the Cards They Carry

    Amanda Peterson March 4, 2024  •  2 Minute Read

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    Women are increasingly taking charge of their money, and credit cards are a powerful tool in their financial arsenal. But with so many options on the market, what kind of plastic are women reaching for? CreditSoup looks it over.

  26. 10 Things To Curb Cabin Fever

    10 Things To Curb Cabin Fever

    Amanda Peterson February 26, 2024  •  2 Minute Read

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    Cabin fever has taken hold. If you're looking to get out of the house, but don't want to commit to long, expensive vacations, CreditSoup has 10 things to curb your cabin fever!

  33. 4 Top Cards You Need This Shopping Season

    4 Top Cards You Need This Shopping Season

    Amanda Peterson December 1, 2023  •  5 Minute Read

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    Get ready to conquer your holiday shopping list with the perfect lineup of credit cards. Whether you're a seasoned spender or a budget-conscious shopper, CreditSoup has you covered with these four credit cards!

  35. 7 Ways to Save Money on Holiday Shopping

    7 Ways to Save Money on Holiday Shopping

    Kat Tretina November 14, 2023  •  3 Minute Read

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    The holiday season is upon us, which means you’re likely shopping for gifts, decor, and other trimmings. The cost of holiday shopping can quickly cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, derailing your financial goals and wrecking your budget.

  36. Enjoy More Variety with Venmo

    Enjoy More Variety with Venmo

    Erin Benson November 13, 2023  •  3 Minute Read

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    Venmo was built for its users to send and request money from other users, but now you can use Venmo to pay for goods and services. That’s right, Venmo now offers a Credit Card. The new Venmo Credit Card lets you earn custom cash back to send, spend or even to auto-purchase the crypto of your choice from your Venmo account. Read more about it here, on our CreditSoup blog!

  37. Wise Spend Tip: Pay Off Credit Cards Monthly

    Wise Spend Tip: Pay Off Credit Cards Monthly

    Amanda Peterson November 1, 2023  •  1 Minute Read

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    To truly maximize the benefits of credit cards, it's essential to develop a responsible payment habit – paying off your credit card monthly. In this week's Wise Spend Wednesday, let's explore the reasons why this practice can lead to financial freedom.

  39. Shop Direct With Manufacturers

    Shop Direct With Manufacturers

    Amanda Peterson October 19, 2023  •  1 Minute Read

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    This Thrifty Thursday from CreditSoup urges you to consider bypassing the retailers and shopping directly with manufacturers. It's a savvy move to boost your savings and make the most of your credit card's benefits.

  40. The Secret to Stress-Free Shopping and Savings

    The Secret to Stress-Free Shopping and Savings

    Amanda Peterson October 16, 2023  •  1 Minute Read

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    CreditSoup explores the advantages of planning your holiday budget well in advance, along with smart shopping tips and the potential for saving money through credit card rewards. Learn the secret to a stress-free holiday shopping season!

  42. 6 Fall Adventures with Credit Card Perks

    6 Fall Adventures with Credit Card Perks

    Amanda Peterson September 28, 2023  •  3 Minute Read

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    From pumpkin patches to apple orchards, and cozy weekends in the mountains to thrilling haunted houses, autumn offers a treasure trove of activities to enjoy. CreditSoup takes a look at maximizing those credit card perks & rewards!

  43. Join A Loyalty Program

    Join A Loyalty Program

    Amanda Peterson September 7, 2023  •  4 Minute Read

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    Everyone loves a good deal. Joining a loyalty program is a thrifty decision that offers a plethora of benefits. CreditSoup gives you a little insight on how they work.

  45. Credit Card Payment Processing 101

    Credit Card Payment Processing 101

    Kat Tretina July 13, 2023  •  3 Minute Read

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

  48. Use Cash & Points to Save Money on Hotel Stays

    Use Cash & Points to Save Money on Hotel Stays

    Kat Tretina June 19, 2023  •  3 Minute Read

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    If you’re a frequent traveler, you’re probably a member of a hotel-branded loyalty program or you may have a travel rewards credit card. These programs help you earn points which you can use to book future hotel stays.

  49. 9 Ways Credit Card Rewards Have Reshaped Our World

    9 Ways Credit Card Rewards Have Reshaped Our World

    Holly Johnson May 24, 2023  •  6 Minute Read

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    According to a 2021 report from the American Banking Association, consumers are more aware than ever before of the upside to having the right rewards card in their wallet. In addition to rewards for ongoing spending, generous signup bonuses are upping the ante and making credit card rewards even more attractive. With all these perks, our world will never be the same. Here are 9 ways credit card rewards have reshaped life as we know it.

  50. 8 Cheap Summer Vacation Ideas with Kids

    8 Cheap Summer Vacation Ideas with Kids

    Holly Johnson May 1, 2023  •  5 Minute Read

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    There are plenty of ways to make family memories without spending a bundle. If you’re angling for a summer vacation with kids that won’t blow your budget out the window, consider these low-cost and mid-tier vacation ideas.

  51. Build your Credit with Self.

    Build your Credit with Self.

    Erin Benson March 27, 2023  •  3 Minute Read

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

  52. Secured Credit Card Season

    Secured Credit Card Season

    Erin Benson February 2, 2023  •  4 Minute Read

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

  53. GM Offers Rewards Credit Card and Business Card

    GM Offers Rewards Credit Card and Business Card

    Erin Benson February 1, 2023  •  3 Minute Read

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

  55. Why You Need a Credit Card After Declaring Bankruptcy

    Why You Need a Credit Card After Declaring Bankruptcy

    Kat Tretina January 19, 2023  •  3 Minute Read

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

  56. 4 Ways to Pay Down Debt

    4 Ways to Pay Down Debt

    Amanda Peterson January 11, 2023  •  3 Minute Read

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

  61. Easiest Store Credit Cards to Get

    Easiest Store Credit Cards to Get

    Holly Johnson September 25, 2022  •  4 Minute Read

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

  62. 3 Credit Card Perks to Help You Save on College Shopping

    3 Credit Card Perks to Help You Save on College Shopping

    Ashley Dull August 29, 2022  •  5 Minute Read

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

  63. 5 Ways to Sidestep Common Credit Card Blunders

    5 Ways to Sidestep Common Credit Card Blunders

    Kirsten Thuringer August 8, 2022  •  4 Minute Read

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

  64. 5 Ways to Use Rewards for a Last-Minute Fall Getaway

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

    CreditSoup Staff August 4, 2022  •  4 Minute Read

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

  65. 7 Tips for Staying Debt-Free

    7 Tips for Staying Debt-Free

    Kat Tretina August 4, 2022  •  3 Minute Read

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

  66. How Many Credit Cards Should You Carry?

    How Many Credit Cards Should You Carry?

    Kat Tretina July 20, 2022  •  5 Minute Read

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

  67. 5 Hacks to Earn Rewards Without Impulse Shopping

    5 Hacks to Earn Rewards Without Impulse Shopping

    Holly Johnson May 27, 2022  •  4 Minute Read

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

  68. How to Get Your First Credit Card

    How to Get Your First Credit Card

    Holly Johnson October 29, 2021  •  4 Minute Read

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

  69. 4 Hidden Costs Behind Rewards Cards

    4 Hidden Costs Behind Rewards Cards

    CreditSoup Staff October 15, 2021  •  3 Minute Read

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    There’s no such thing as a free lunch, right? Many credit card companies try to entice customers with rewards such as cash back, free hotel stays, or travel perks — but almost everything comes at a cost. CreditSoup has 4 hidden costs to watch out for with rewards cards.

  70. Credit One Bank’s® Colossal Cash Back Rewards Card

    Credit One Bank’s® Colossal Cash Back Rewards Card

    Erin Benson September 3, 2021  •  2 Minute Read

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    Credit One Bank® is one of America’s leading credit card providers, serving over 5 million customers nationwide. Late this spring, Credit One Bank® came out with the Credit One Bank® Platinum Rewards Visa card that offers a whopping 5% cash back!

  71. Crypto Credit Cards

    Crypto Credit Cards

    Erin Benson June 11, 2021  •  2 Minute Read

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

  72. Gap Visa Credit Card Review

    Gap Visa Credit Card Review

    Kat Tretina June 4, 2021  •  3 Minute Read

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

  73. Target REDCard™ Review: Is It Worth It?

    Target REDCard™ Review: Is It Worth It?

    Kat Tretina May 21, 2021  •  4 Minute Read

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    Offering 5% off your purchases every day, the REDCard™ could be a tempting option. But is it worth it? Find out how the card works, what benefits it offers, and whether or not it offers valuable rewards.

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

    How to Decide Which Type of Credit Card is Best

    Kat Tretina May 14, 2021  •  3 Minute Read

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

  75. 6 Ways Credit Cards Can Improve Your Financial Life

    6 Ways Credit Cards Can Improve Your Financial Life

    CreditSoup Staff March 25, 2021  •  5 Minute Read

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

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

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

    Chelsea Denning June 5, 2020  •  2 Minute Read

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

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

    Easiest Credit Cards to Get for a 600 Credit Score

    Chelsea Denning April 16, 2020  •  3 Minute Read

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

  83. 8 Credit Card Considerations When Traveling Internationally

    8 Credit Card Considerations When Traveling Internationally

    Holly Johnson June 26, 2019  •  5 Minute Read

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

  84. U.S. Household Credit Card Debt Continues to Grow

    U.S. Household Credit Card Debt Continues to Grow

    Kat Tretina June 19, 2019  •  3 Minute Read

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    Credit cards can be excellent tools — they’re convenient, and you can earn valuable rewards like cash back or airline miles. However, credit cards can cause problems, too. If used incorrectly, credit cards can lead you into debt.

  85. Lowe’s Advantage Card Review

    Lowe’s Advantage Card Review

    Holly Johnson June 17, 2019  •  5 Minute Read

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

  86. 5 Ways Credit Cards Can Impact Your FICO scores

    5 Ways Credit Cards Can Impact Your FICO scores

    Kat Tretina June 10, 2019  •  3 Minute Read

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    Credit cards play a big role in establishing your credit score. If used wisely, credit cards can positively impact your credit. But, at the same time, credit card mistakes can be costly in the form of a damaged credit report.

  87. Best Buy Visa® Card Review

    Best Buy Visa® Card Review

    Holly Johnson June 7, 2019  •  5 Minute Read

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

  88. Sam's Club® Mastercard® Review

    Sam's Club® Mastercard® Review

    Holly Johnson June 5, 2019  •  5 Minute Read

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

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

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

    Holly Johnson May 25, 2019  •  8 Minute Read

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

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

    Swiping With Care: 10 Ways To Use Credit Cards Responsibly

    Natalie Hollingshead May 24, 2019  •  4 Minute Read

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

  93. The Best Ways to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees

    The Best Ways to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees

    Holly Johnson May 23, 2019  •  4 Minute Read

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

  94. Apple Card: Is It Worth the Hype?

    Apple Card: Is It Worth the Hype?

    Kat Tretina May 15, 2019  •  4 Minute Read

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

  95. TJ Maxx Credit Card Review

    TJ Maxx Credit Card Review

    Holly Johnson May 13, 2019  •  4 Minute Read

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

  96. 3 Amazing Features Of The Freedom Unlimited® That Everyone Misses

    3 Amazing Features Of The Freedom Unlimited® That Everyone Misses

    Jason Steele April 26, 2019  •  5 Minute Read

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

  98. What Are Foreign Transaction Fees

    What Are Foreign Transaction Fees

    Kat Tretina April 19, 2019  •  3 Minute Read

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

  100. Review: Discover it® Student chrome

    Review: Discover it® Student chrome

    Kat Tretina March 26, 2019  •  3 Minute Read

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

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

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

    Kat Tretina March 15, 2019  •  3 Minute Read

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

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

    You May Never Have to Sign a Credit Card Slip Again

    Holly Johnson March 8, 2019  •  4 Minute Read

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

  106. Barclaycard Ring® Mastercard® Review 2019

    Holly Johnson February 27, 2019  •  5 Minute Read

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

  108. Discover it® Balance Transfer Review

    Holly Johnson January 31, 2019  •  5 Minute Read

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

  111. Discover it® Cash Back Review

    Discover it® Cash Back Review

    Holly Johnson November 18, 2018  •  5 Minute Read

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

  112. Best Rewards Cards for Holiday Shopping

    Best Rewards Cards for Holiday Shopping

    Holly Johnson November 18, 2018  •  3 Minute Read

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

  116. What is the Best Discover Credit Card?

    What is the Best Discover Credit Card?

    Holly Johnson October 8, 2018  •  5 Minute Read

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

  117. Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit

    Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit

    Kat Tretina August 31, 2018  •  3 Minute Read

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

  118. Which Credit Cards are Best for Building Credit?

    Which Credit Cards are Best for Building Credit?

    Holly Johnson August 22, 2018  •  4 Minute Read

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

  120. Why Flexible Travel Credit is Totally Underrated

    Why Flexible Travel Credit is Totally Underrated

    Holly Johnson July 19, 2018  •  4 Minute Read

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

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

    Why You Should Get a Credit Card for Your Summer Vacation

    Holly Johnson July 9, 2018  •  5 Minute Read

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

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

    Can a Credit Card Actually Help Me Pay Off Debt?

    Holly Johnson June 12, 2018  •  4 Minute Read

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

  125. 6 Things You Should Know About the New World of Hyatt Program

    6 Things You Should Know About the New World of Hyatt Program

    Holly Johnson March 19, 2018  •  5 Minute Read

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    Love it or hate it, the World of Hyatt program appears to be working thus far, as rewards enthusiasts around the globe continue to take advantage and rack up points for free stay. Before you dive into the new World of Hyatt rewards program, check out these 6 things you should know.

  127. 8 Unusual Credit Card Benefits

    8 Unusual Credit Card Benefits

    Kat Tretina March 8, 2018  •  4 Minute Read

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

  128. Uber Visa Review

    Uber Visa Review

    Jason Steele December 20, 2017  •  3 Minute Read

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

  129. Best Financing Offers For Coping With Holiday Debt

    Best Financing Offers For Coping With Holiday Debt

    Jason Steele December 18, 2017  •  3 Minute Read

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

  130. 5 Money Lessons Your Teenager Can Learn with a Credit Card

    5 Money Lessons Your Teenager Can Learn with a Credit Card

    Holly Johnson December 15, 2017  •  5 Minute Read

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

  132. Best Business Credit Cards for Holiday Spending

    Best Business Credit Cards for Holiday Spending

    Holly Johnson November 30, 2017  •  5 Minute Read

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

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

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

    Holly Johnson November 27, 2017  •  5 Minute Read

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

  135. The Best Business Credit Cards for Your Side Hustle

    The Best Business Credit Cards for Your Side Hustle

    Kat Tretina November 8, 2017  •  3 Minute Read

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

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

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

    Holly Johnson November 6, 2017  •  6 Minute Read

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

  138. Airline Credit Cards with No Annual Fee

    Airline Credit Cards with No Annual Fee

    Jason Steele October 13, 2017  •  4 Minute Read

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

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

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

    Holly Johnson October 9, 2017  •  6 Minute Read

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

  140. How To Choose a Credit Card

    How To Choose a Credit Card

    CreditSoup Staff September 21, 2017  •  1 Minute Read

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

  141. 5 Ways Millennials Can Use Credit Cards to their Advantage

    5 Ways Millennials Can Use Credit Cards to their Advantage

    Holly Johnson September 19, 2017  •  4 Minute Read

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

  142. Rewards Credit Cards to Score Before the Holidays Hit

    Rewards Credit Cards to Score Before the Holidays Hit

    Holly Johnson September 13, 2017  •  6 Minute Read

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

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

    What to do with your Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

    Jason Steele August 30, 2017  •  5 Minute Read

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

  144. Can Credit Cards Help You Become More Charitable?

    Can Credit Cards Help You Become More Charitable?

    Holly Johnson August 25, 2017  •  5 Minute Read

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

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

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

    Holly Johnson August 18, 2017  •  6 Minute Read

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

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

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

    Holly Johnson August 16, 2017  •  5 Minute Read

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

  148. Plan Now to Earn Travel Rewards For the Holidays

    Plan Now to Earn Travel Rewards For the Holidays

    Jason Steele August 14, 2017  •  3 Minute Read

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

  149. Credit cards for college students

    Credit cards for college students

    Natalie Hollingshead June 29, 2017  •  3 Minute Read

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

  150. Don’t Miss Out on These 4 Untapped Credit Card Benefits

    Don’t Miss Out on These 4 Untapped Credit Card Benefits

    CreditSoup Staff June 27, 2017  •  4 Minute Read

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    By the time most people are old enough to open a credit card, they’ve undoubtedly heard countless cautionary tales of friends and family members who dug themselves into debt, faced hefty interest rates after not reading the fine print, or destroyed their credit scores with a few poor decisions.

  151. 3 Ways to Lower Your Credit Card Payment

    3 Ways to Lower Your Credit Card Payment

    Kat Tretina June 23, 2017  •  3 Minute Read

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

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

    Chase Freedom® Review: A First-Hand Account

    Holly Johnson June 20, 2017  •  6 Minute Read

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

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

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

    Jason Steele June 15, 2017  •  3 Minute Read

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

  154. Understanding Interest and APR is in Your Best Interest

    Understanding Interest and APR is in Your Best Interest

    Natalie Hollingshead June 14, 2017  •  3 Minute Read

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

  155. A New Grad’s Guide to Credit Cards

    A New Grad’s Guide to Credit Cards

    Kat Tretina June 9, 2017  •  4 Minute Read

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

  157. 4 Things to Consider When Weighing Credit Cards

    4 Things to Consider When Weighing Credit Cards

    Kirsten Thuringer June 7, 2017  •  4 Minute Read

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

  158. What happens to credit card obligations when a loved one dies?

    What happens to credit card obligations when a loved one dies?

    Natalie Hollingshead May 31, 2017  •  3 Minute Read

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    One of the last things you want to deal with after the death of a loved one is his or her credit card debt. Depending on the type of account and laws where you live, dealing with credit card obligations after the death of a loved one may be a fact of life. The sooner you know what you’re dealing with, the better.

  159. How to Use a Credit Card for a Large Purchase

    How to Use a Credit Card for a Large Purchase

    Holly Johnson May 26, 2017  •  2 Minute Read

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

  160. 4 Signs a Credit Card Offer Is Too Good to Be True

    4 Signs a Credit Card Offer Is Too Good to Be True

    CreditSoup Staff May 25, 2017  •  3 Minute Read

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    Credit card offers are everywhere. Boot up your computer, type "credit card" into your favorite search engine, and you'll be inundated with hundreds (if not thousands) of options. Some cards are objectively better than others, but how do you spot the truly terrible ones?

  161. Using Credit Cards Rewards for Vacation Expenses

    Using Credit Cards Rewards for Vacation Expenses

    Natalie Hollingshead May 24, 2017  •  3 Minute Read

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

  162. How to Score Credit Card Incentives Without Going Broke

    How to Score Credit Card Incentives Without Going Broke

    Kat Tretina May 23, 2017  •  2 Minute Read

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    When it comes to shopping for a new credit card, there are hundreds of bonus offers and sign-up incentives. Sometimes worth hundreds of dollars, credit card companies tempt thousands of airline miles or cash back rewards to convince you to apply for their card.

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

    Is There Such a Thing as Too Many Credit Cards?

    Kirsten Thuringer May 19, 2017  •  4 Minute Read

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

  164. How to Boost Your Odds of Credit Card Approval

    How to Boost Your Odds of Credit Card Approval

    CreditSoup Staff May 18, 2017  •  4 Minute Read

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

  165. What You Should Know Before Doing a Balance Transfer

    What You Should Know Before Doing a Balance Transfer

    Kat Tretina May 16, 2017  •  4 Minute Read

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

  166. Keeping Your Credit Card Safe On Vacation

    Keeping Your Credit Card Safe On Vacation

    Natalie Hollingshead May 12, 2017  •  4 Minute Read

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

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

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

    Holly Johnson May 9, 2017  •  3 Minute Read

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

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

    Is a Balance Transfer Credit Card right for you?

    Kirsten Thuringer January 27, 2017  •  1 Minute Read

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

  170. USAA offers great options for Veterans

    USAA offers great options for Veterans

    Kirsten Thuringer November 10, 2016  •  2 Minute Read

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

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

    Chase Freedom® 5% Quarterly Categories for Q1 2019

    Holly Johnson January 19, 2016  •  4 Minute Read

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

  175. What to look for in small business credit.

    What to look for in small business credit.

    Scott Delzer January 20, 2011  •  1 Minute Read

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

Categories

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