How to Pick Your First Travel Rewards Credit Card
Seek straightforward rewards. Flexibility is ideal for bargain hunters, and perks work for airline/hotel loyalists.
How to Use Your First Credit Card
Start with small, manageable charges. Don't pay late, and try not to carry a balance from month to month.
7 Options for Your First Credit Card
Secured cards, student cards, store cards and even "alternative" cards might be good options for you.
Am I Ready for My First Credit Card?
If you're organized, can consistently save money and understand how interest works, it might be time.
NerdWallet’s Guide to Your First Credit Card
Get started with credit cards by understanding how they work, how you qualify and how to use them wisely.
AmEx Membership Rewards: How to Earn and Use Them
More than a dozen American Express cards earn these versatile points. They’re most valuable when used for travel.
What to Do If You Lose Your Credit Card
Start by freezing or locking your card, then contact your issuer. If you know it was stolen, file a police report.
How Is Credit Card Interest Calculated?
The interest you pay depends on your APR and your balance; avoid interest entirely by paying your bill in full.
How to Qualify for Your First Credit Card
For most credit cards, you'll need some positive credit history, but your age and income also matter. Boost your odds by applying for the right card.
Should You Use Credit Card Rewards to Fund a 529 College Savings Account?
Cards with college savings benefits are an easy, convenient way to supplement your fund, but don't rely solely on them.
5 Things to Know About the PenFed Power Cash Rewards Card
The card earns 1.5% or 2% back, depending on your eligibility for the credit union's Honors Advantage program.
Benefits of Discover it Cash Back
This card offers rich ongoing rewards in popular categories, a potentially lucrative welcome bonus and a lengthy intro APR period.
Benefits of the Capital One Savor
This no-annual-fee card offers robust rewards on food and fun — whether that means a night out on the town or a home-cooked meal and streaming a movie — plus other perks.
Benefits of the American Express Platinum Card
The card has a lengthy list of valuable perks for the right customer, though many of them will require some planning and effort to use.
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Benefits of the Citi Double Cash Card
Its primary feature is a high flat rewards rate, but it also offers flexible redemption and a lengthy intro APR offer on balance transfers.
Benefits of the Chase Freedom Flex and Chase Freedom Unlimited
Both earn valuable rewards and offer flexible redemption options, plus multiple other perks, for no annual fee.
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Benefits of Southwest Airlines Credit Cards
There are three consumer cards to choose from, and while many of their basic features are similar, you'll get more perks the more you pay.
Benefits of the Bank of America Travel Rewards Card
Perks include solid, straightforward rewards, versatile redemption options and travel-friendly features, all for no annual fee.
Benefits of Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards
Perks differ depending on the annual fee, but all five consumer cards give you points toward stays, plus elite status.
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Benefits of Delta Air Lines Credit Cards
Delta Air Lines and American Express offer 4 cards, ranging from a bare-bones version with no annual fee to a $650-a-year card packed with perks.
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