Garrett Yarbrough

Writer, Credit cards
  • 4
    Years of experience
  • 86
    Publications Written
Ribbon Icon EXPERTISE
  • Credit card strategy
  • Credit card comparisons
  • Credit card rewards
  • Building credit
  • Credit scores
Education Icon EDUCATION
  • Bachelor of Arts in English, Certification in Business and Technical Communication, Creative Writing minor | East Carolina University
  • Bachelor of Arts in History | East Carolina University

Garrett Yarbrough writes credit card reviews, comparisons and guides for Bankrate. He specializes in all things credit cards, and he has comprehensively researched the current market and past product offers for more than three years. Garrett thoroughly analyzes credit card terms, rewards programs, introductory offers and other card features to provide readers with the most insightful steps toward personal financial growth. He has also written and researched for major Bankrate features, including the latest credit card points and miles valuations, the 2022 through 2024 Bankrate Awards, the Spender Type tool, the Credit Utilization Calculator and the CardMatch™ Approval Odds tool.

Prior to joining Bankrate, Garrett worked as a copywriter at an ad agency, and then as a freelance writer. He joined NextAdvisor.com in 2020, where his credit card, credit monitoring and identity theft analysis were regularly featured.

When he’s not reviewing credit cards or detailing the latest developments in Bankrate’s best cards, you can find Garrett traveling, reading and stopping at every niche museum he sees along the highway.

Send your questions about credit cards to gyarbrough@redventures.com.
Find Garrett beyond Bankrate

Garrett breaks down the current best credit cards on CreditCards.com
Garrett reviews the SuperCash Secured Mastercard® on CreditCards.com
Garrett reviews the Ink Business Premier℠ on CreditCards.com
Garrett reviews the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

Garrett wants you to know
As someone who began their personal finance journey not too long ago, I’ve seen firsthand the many credit-related misconceptions that family, friends and other credit builders hold. I noticed these stumbling blocks led several loved ones to avoid credit cards and base important life decisions on popular financial misinformation.

Using my background in analytical research and user-focused writing, I strive to make navigating credit cards and credit building smooth sailing for others who are new to credit.
Garrett’s recommended readings

How to choose the right credit card
Rethinking credit: Tips for first-generation credit users
How to maximize your credit card rewards
Under-the-radar credit card perks you should know
Merchant category codes: How to earn more cash back
How much are points and miles worth in 2023?

Sifting through reward program, sign-up bonus or card feature terms can feel overwhelming for even credit card veterans. As a Bankrate writer, I’ve seen how translating fine print into actionable advice can help cardholders evaluate their most valuable options and build a stronger financial future.

— Garrett Yarbrough

Garrett's Picks

young lady paying at a counter of a store with a card
8 MIN READ

Merchant category codes: How to earn more cash back

Merchant category codes can help consumers earn more with rewards credit cards.

Woman looking at cell phone
5 MIN READ

Best credit cards with cellphone insurance

Protect your phone with the best credit cards for cellphone insurance.

couple looking out at the view on a lake
9 MIN READ

How much are points and miles worth in 2024?

See how far your rewards can take you with our data-backed valuations.

Business Owner Paying Bills Online
19 MIN READ

Best credit cards for business expenses

We break down the best cards for business rewards and perks.

Garrett's latest articles

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®

    This premier Chase card could be stellar for travelers who value luxury perks, but its high annual fee makes it a costly choice if you only travel occasionally.

    21 min read Dec 01, 2022

  • Discover it® Secured Credit Card

    If you need a secured credit card, the [sc code='credit_card' pid='6743' field='name'] is a fantastic choice.

    13 min read Nov 30, 2022

  • Credit One Bank® Platinum X5 Visa®

    The Credit One Bank® Platinum X5 Visa® has an alluring cash back rewards rate, but the $95 annual fee and restrictive card terms can take a toll if you’re building credit. Read a full review here.

    11 min read Nov 23, 2022

  • The Amex EveryDay® Preferred Credit Card

    Although it isn’t a true a travel and cash back combo card, the Amex Everyday Preferred is a fantastic tool to collect Membership Rewards on groceries and gas between trips.

    7 min read Nov 03, 2022

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express

    The Platinum Card cements its' best-in-class status with more elite rewards and benefits for travelers than ever before, but at a higher price.

    23 min read Nov 03, 2022

  • Chase Freedom Flex℠

    The Chase Freedom Flex card is at the top of the cash back game. Its familiar rotating categories are paired with year-round earning categories to ensure maximum rewards.

    14 min read Oct 24, 2022