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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What is a purchase APR?
Here’s what you need to know about your card’s purchase APR, or annual interest rate.
6 min read Jul 17, 2025 -
How to hit your minimum spending requirements and earn your welcome bonus
Nine tips to help you earn your welcome bonus.
7 min read Jul 16, 2025 -
Don’t sleep on the “online shopping” rewards category
“Online shopping” is an all-too-often forgotten credit card bonus category. Here’s why it could be one of the most lucrative bonus categories out there.
6 min read Jul 16, 2025 -
How to cancel a credit card in 5 steps
Canceling a credit card lowers your credit score, but you can minimize the damage.
5 min read Jul 15, 2025 -
If you return a purchase, can you keep the credit card rewards?
Returning an item purchased with credit will cause points earned to be deducted.
4 min read Jul 15, 2025 -
Can a merchant store my credit card details without permission?
Discover how security standards protect your card details with merchants.
3 min read Jul 15, 2025 -
What is a credit card?
Credit cards are strong financial tools when properly used.
9 min read Jul 11, 2025 -
When to use buy now, pay later vs. a credit card
Should you go with BNPL financing or credit cards?
4 min read Jul 09, 2025 -
How to use the Chase Sapphire Reserve travel credit
The Chase Sapphire Reserve’s $300 annual travel credit can be used in many ways.
6 min read Jul 08, 2025 -
5 credit card marketing tricks — and what you should know about them
Here are five credit card marketing tricks to be aware of.
4 min read Jul 07, 2025 -
Credit card issuers that offer contactless cards
Most major credit card issuers offer this option, making transactions quicker and safer.
4 min read Jul 07, 2025 -
What happens if my card payment is returned?
Returned card payments can bring on a variety of fees and may harm your credit.
3 min read Jul 07, 2025 -
Citi Simplicity vs. U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card
See how the Citi Simplicity and the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum compare to each other.
7 min read Jul 03, 2025 -
Why is good credit so important?
Here’s what you need to do to get your score within a good credit range.
7 min read Jul 03, 2025 -
How many business credit cards should I have?
Small-business cards have varied offerings, so by having multiple cards at your disposal, you can build a portfolio.
7 min read Jul 01, 2025 -
What credit score is needed for Chase credit cards?
In most cases, your credit needs to fall in the “good” to “excellent” range.
4 min read Jul 01, 2025 -
Why do debit and credit cards have expiration dates?
The expiration date for your card helps keep your information secure.
8 min read Jun 30, 2025 -
Your complete guide to corporate credit cards
What should you consider before getting a corporate credit card?
7 min read Jun 30, 2025 -
How to change the name on your credit card
Reach out to your credit card issuer to request a name change on your card.
6 min read Jun 30, 2025 -
Why you shouldn’t be tempted by BNPL credit cards
Buy now, pay later credit cards aren’t likely to be your best option. Here’s why.
5 min read Jun 30, 2025