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.
Card Applications FAQs
Bankrate Expert Credit Card Advice
Latest credit card advice articles
-
Can you pay a credit card with another credit card?
Credit card debt can be tricky, but a balance transfer card may be able to help.
5 min read Jul 28, 2023 -
Mastercard credit card benefits: What is the difference between each tier?
Learn about each Mastercard credit card tier’s benefits and perks.
5 min read Jul 20, 2023 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
Visa vs. Mastercard: Which card is better for your wallet?
Visa and Mastercard are card networks that enable credit card transactions.
5 min read May 08, 2023