I was afraid of credit cards. Here are 6 things I learned while getting my first one.
Here are 6 things I learned while getting my first credit card.
Madison Hoehn is a Certified Financial Education Instructor℠ and editor at Bankrate. She joined the Bankrate team in 2024, bringing over six years of editorial expertise to her work. She’s passionate about making every reader feel seen and meeting them where they are in their financial journey.
Prior to her work at Bankrate, Madison wrote and edited content for BestColleges, specializing in alternative education such as coding bootcamps and trade schools. Her experience also took her to Viident Co., an independent publishing company, where she worked alongside authors to finalize their books for publication.
When she’s not editing for Bankrate, she enjoys yoga, trying her hand at new soup recipes, and writing creatively.
Madison obtained her bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Miami University.
Being a first-time homeowner, taking out a loan or starting a new credit line can be intimidating. In today's digital world, you may feel like you have a million different opinions telling you how to handle your finances and you may not know how to cut through the noise.
The key to finding confidence in credit card usage is getting back to the basics. Determining what you value most in your life is a sure way to determine which card will work best for you. In a world with advice coming at you from all sides, it’s important you first become an expert on you.
It’s never too late to start learning how to use credit cards the right way. No matter your credit history, you can always start building confidence in your financial decisions today.
— Madison Hoehn, CFEI
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.
Looking for a business credit card? These are the best business credit cards that offer generous rewards, business-friendly perks, and easy redemption options. Plus, read expert advice from our team.
The best credit cards for high school or college students typically offer cash back, rewards and other perks like low interest rates. See Bankrate's favorite student credit cards.
Are you looking for a temporary break from APR on existing debt? One of the balance transfer credit card offers available on Bankrate could help you pay down balances, improve your credit score and save on interest charges — plus, some earn great rewards.
Bankrate's experts compare hundreds of the best credit cards and credit card offers to select the best in cash back, rewards, travel, business, 0% APR, balance transfer and more. Let Bankrate, a leader in personal finance advice, help you find the best credit card today.
The best travel credit cards offer outstanding rewards, big sign-up bonuses and low fees. Read our recommendations for the best travel rewards cards.
You’ll need a strong credit history for a high-limit credit card.
The newest member of the Atmos family would best serve frequent travelers. Learn why in our Bankrate review.
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