Credit Card Advice
Whether you are applying for your first credit card, looking for an addition to the cards that you already have, or just seeking expert advice on the best way to use your credit cards to maximize rewards and stay out of debt, we have articles that can help. Our mission is to help you meet your financial goals, and our team is dedicated to providing you with the education and resources that will make it possible for you to use credit cards to get to where you want to be. Explore hundreds of credit card advice articles below.
Bankrate Expert Credit Card Advice
Latest credit card advice articles
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Residual interest: What you need to know
If you’re carrying a balance on your credit card, residual interest can easily sneak up on you when trying to pay it off.
5 min read Mar 31, 2025 -
How to close a Capital One account
Closing the account may affect your credit score, but it will depend on your current credit factors.
6 min read Mar 31, 2025 -
Why you should pay your credit card every two weeks
To help keep your credit utilization low, stick to a twice-monthly payment schedule.
5 min read Mar 31, 2025 -
Is the secured Self Visa® Credit Card worth it?
If you have bad credit, the Secured Self Visa® Credit Card could be what you need.
6 min read Mar 31, 2025 -
Best soft pull credit cards
Here’s what you need to know about soft pull credit cards and which issuers offer them.
5 min read Mar 31, 2025 -
Credit card referral bonuses: Earn rewards through friends
How to use credit card referrals to earn extra rewards.
5 min read Mar 28, 2025 -
How to request a credit line increase with Bank of America
A Bank of America credit limit increase is possible, but you may need to ask.
7 min read Mar 27, 2025 -
How do travel credit cards work?
Earning travel rewards with credit cards can help offset travel expenses.
8 min read Mar 26, 2025 -
How to choose a cash back credit card
Discover tips and resources for comparing cash back cards and maximizing rewards.
8 min read Mar 26, 2025 -
Want a lower credit card interest rate? Just ask
Call your card issuer if you want a lower interest rate, and be ready to negotiate
8 min read Mar 25, 2025 -
How to build credit as a college student
Build credit in college with credit cards and responsible card usage.
8 min read Mar 25, 2025 -
How old do you have to be to get a credit card?
What are your credit card options if you are below 21 years of age?
4 min read Mar 25, 2025 -
How to request a credit line increase with Chase
You may receive a credit limit increase from Chase automatically, and you can also call them to request an increase.
6 min read Mar 25, 2025 -
How long does it take to increase your credit score?
Depending on why it’s low, it can take months or even years to raise your credit score.
6 min read Mar 23, 2025 -
How to close an American Express account
Learn when, why and how to close your American Express account.
6 min read Mar 20, 2025 -
What you need to know about your credit score
This guide goes over the main determinants of your credit score, which factors matter the most and more.
6 min read Mar 20, 2025 -
Why you can still be on the hook for credit card charges you didn’t make… and how to avoid it
Bankrate spoke to several credit experts to find out how consumers can protect themselves.
6 min read Mar 20, 2025 -
How a new credit card can fight inflation
A new credit card, timed right and used strategically, can help you fight high prices.
6 min read Mar 19, 2025 -
Best credit cards for earning rewards for Airbnb and Vrbo stays
Learn some of the best ways to earn rewards on Airbnb and VRBO stays.
37 min read Mar 19, 2025 -
Can you apply for a credit card while unemployed?
Use these tips to continue building credit responsibly, even during a period of unemployment.
6 min read Mar 19, 2025