Katie Kelton

Senior Writer, Credit Cards

8

Years of experience

EXPERTISE

Rewards credit cards
Travel credit cards
Credit scores
Building credit
Debt management

EDUCATION

Texas A+M University, Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing

Around half of Americans struggle with credit card debt. But you can pay off debt while still enjoying some lifestyle purchases — it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. A budget is the best tool to keep in your back pocket.
— Katie Kelton

About the author

Katie Kelton is the Senior Writer on Bankrate’s credit cards team, where she brings eight years of experience writing creative and financial content to help cardholders get savvy with their credit. She makes complex topics easy to understand — like how to read Bankrate survey data, maximize your credit card rewards or bump up your credit score. Thanks to the cards in her wallet, she hasn’t paid for a flight in months, and each of her (frequent) coffee shop stops puts cash back into her pocket.
Readers who share her curiosity about everyday people’s credit habits can tap into her survey data stories — like Americans’ debt usage and thoughts on tipping.

Before Bankrate, Katie wrote for Capital One, where she gained insight on the credit world from a card issuer’s perspective. And her career began in marketing, where she learned how to make life’s everyday decisions a little more fun.

Katie is from Austin and lives in Colorado Springs. Off the clock, you’ll find her heading outdoors with her pup, organizing her bookshelf and planning endless activities with friends.

Katie beyond Bankrate

People want to feel generous around the holidays, says Bankrate.

Katie talks with KSL Newsradio about how to avoid being scammed.

Katie talks with News10NBC about money mistakes for young adults.

Katie talks with KUTV about taking on debt due to social pressure.

Many Americans have tipping fatigue, according to Bankrate.

Signs of backlash against frequent tipping, according to Bankrate.

Katie wants you to know

Your experience with credit cards can depend on your lifestyle. I take a minimalist approach to life and credit, using just three cards to earn rewards on flights, food and fun. Some cardholders might have one card they use for the same expenses each month. Others apply for every welcome bonus they can get their hands on.

There’s no single right way to use your credit cards. I suggest prioritizing on-time, in-full payments and rewards that fit your spending as you find a credit card strategy that works for you.

Around half of Americans struggle with credit card debt. But you can pay off debt while still enjoying some lifestyle purchases — it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. A budget is the best tool to keep in your back pocket.
— Katie Kelton