Credit Card Advice
Check out the latest rewards credit card news and advice from our team at Bankrate. We can help you find the right credit card to earn cash back and maximize your points and miles.
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Latest New to Credit Card Advice
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How to close a Chase account
Learn how to and whether you should close your Chase account.
5 min read Jul 20, 2023 -
Credit card default: How it happens, what to do about it
Learn more about credit card default and what to do if you find yourself in that situation.
5 min read Jul 14, 2023 -
The 800 credit score: What it means, why it helps and how to get one
Earning an 800 credit score means you’ve done everything you need to do to prove that you are a creditworthy consumer.
6 min read Jul 14, 2023 -
Should you cancel an unused credit card?
Closing a credit card may not be a smart move. Here’s what to consider before canceling an unused card.
4 min read Jul 14, 2023 -
What is the Chase 5/24 rule?
If you’ve opened more than 5 credit cards in the past 24 months, Chase probably won’t accept your credit card application.
4 min read Jul 20, 2023 -
Cards that get you top-tier hotel elite status via card spending
Whether you’re a business traveler or taking the family on a much-needed vacation, having elite status can pay off.
6 min read Jan 04, 2024 -
Should you downgrade your credit card?
If your credit card has a high annual fee, downgrading may be an option to save money and your credit score.
5 min read Jun 30, 2023 -
U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card vs. Chase Freedom Flex
The distinction lies in what type of spending you’d like to earn rewards on, as well as the cap on those rewards.
7 min read Sep 06, 2023 -
What is a good credit utilization ratio?
It’s critical to keep your credit utilization ratio low, but how low is often a mystery to consumers.
4 min read Jun 23, 2023 -
New to credit cards? Don’t buy into these myths
Don’t buy into these common misconceptions about credit cards.
3 min read Apr 23, 2024 -
How being an authorized user affects your credit
Credit scores can benefit from the activity reported from an authorized user.
5 min read Jun 20, 2023 -
Are credit cards that automatically reward your top spending categories a good deal?
Some cards automatically offer rewards in your top spending categories each period.
3 min read Apr 23, 2024 -
The Chase trifecta: What it is and how to maximize it
The Chase trifecta lets you make the most of all your spending. Find out which cards qualify and why you might want all three.
9 min read Apr 04, 2024 -
How to save on weddings using credit cards
A smart credit card strategy can help you pay off a wedding or get a free honeymoon.
3 min read Nov 22, 2023 -
What is a virtual credit card?
A virtual credit card uses randomly generated numbers to protect your card information.
6 min read Sep 15, 2023 -
Should I use a personal loan to pay off credit card debt?
Using a personal loan to pay off credit card debt can be a huge financial relief—but is a personal loan your best option?
7 min read Mar 14, 2024 -
What is a statement credit?
A statement credit, which is a card benefit, can help bring down your card balance.
6 min read Oct 18, 2023 -
LGBTQ+ guide to personal finance 2023
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans have made extraordinary strides toward equality in recent years, yet obstacles remain – including disparities in personal finance.
9 min read Aug 21, 2023 -
How to use CardMatch
CardMatch lets you see multiple prequalified credit card offers in one place.
6 min read Jun 08, 2023 -
How to switch credit cards
If your card doesn’t match your needs, consider switching cards with your issuer.
6 min read Jan 18, 2024