Credit Cards Insights and Articles

How to pick the best credit card for you in 4 easy steps

Start by checking your credit; a good score is key to qualifying for the best cards. Next, identify the type of card you need based on your goals and spending patterns. Narrow down your choices by examining benefits and features. Then apply for the one that's the best fit.

NerdWallet's guide to your first credit card

Credit cards aren't difficult to understand — but they can certainly seem so if you've never had one before. We'll explain the basics and help you determine whether you're ready for the responsibility of a credit card. We'll show you how to sort through your options and give you tips on using your first card wisely to build a strong credit history.

Why nearly every purchase should be on a credit card

Credit cards are convenient and secure, they help build credit, they make budgeting easier, and they earn rewards. And no, you don't have to go into debt, and you don't have to pay interest. That's why NerdWallet believes that for most people, it makes sense to use a credit card for just about every purchase.

Pay down debt and save money

Balance transfer calculator

See how much you could save by moving debt from a high-interest credit card to a new card with a 0% introductory rate.

The cost of debt

Credit card interest calculator

Use the current balance on your credit card and your interest rate to get a sense of how much your interest charges will be for a month.

Track how much you owe

Average daily balance calculator

This is the number credit card issuers use to calculate your interest. Enter your purchases and payments in our simple tool to see your average balance.

Top picks

Best credit cards of 2025

Whether you're looking to earn rewards, save money on interest or build credit, start here. You'll see our top overall choices in credit cards, and you can drill down in specific categories.

Expert insights

Credit card reviews

NerdWallet's experts have reviewed over 400 credit cards — cash back, travel, airline and hotel, balance transfer, student, credit builder, store and more.

Side-by-side comparisons

Compare and choose

Select the cards you're interested in, and see how they stack up in terms of fees, rewards, bonus offers, interest rates and other criteria.

Recommendations

Card finder quiz

Tell us a little about yourself and what you're looking for in a credit card, and our tool will suggest a match. It's free and will have no effect on your credit scores.

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