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Credit Cards 101

Getting the right kind of card for you and using it wisely will help you build credit, save money and enjoy an array of benefits.

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Melissa Lambarena

Tips to Turn Your Grocery Store Bonus Into a Supermarket Sweep

If you're willing to put in a little effort, grocery shopping can earn you a significant amount of rewards.

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Caitlin Mims

2018 Travel Credit Card Study

Americans who don't carry a travel rewards credit card miss out on hundreds of dollars' worth of free travel a year. Some enjoy other rewards, but millions get nothing.

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Erin El Issa

5 Things to Know About the Home Depot Credit Card

There's special financing on big purchases. But it's not a true 0% offer, and you won't earn any ongoing rewards.

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Kimberly Palmer, Paul Soucy

Are These 5 Things Worth Credit Card Debt?

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Erin El Issa

Credit Cards Can Help You Save on Buses and Trains, Too

Much like with airlines, you can save on bus and train travel costs by optimizing credit cards and rewards programs. Here’s how.

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Chanelle Bessette

What to Expect From Wells Fargo’s Cell Phone Insurance

There's a $600 limit, a $25 deductible — and a lot of paperwork. Still, the benefit can save you some serious cash.

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Kenley Young

Can I Pay My Mortgage With a Credit Card?

The answer is yes — but it might not be straightforward or advisable. Consider the potential costs and drawbacks first.

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Melissa Lambarena

How to Apply for a Credit Card Without a Social Security Number

Noncitizens can get a similar identifier called an ITIN, and some 'alternative' cards don't require a Social Security number at all.

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Lindsay Konsko, Melissa Lambarena

What to Know If Your Credit Card Is Closed Due to Inactivity

Having a card account closed by the issuer can hurt your credit scores. Use your cards regularly to avoid it.

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Sara Rathner, Lindsay Konsko

What Is a Good APR for a Credit Card?

A good APR varies based on your creditworthiness and the type of card you have.

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Melissa Lambarena

Can I Pay Off a Car With a Credit Card?

Some lenders and credit card issuers allow you to do it, but it usually requires a risky workaround.

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Jae Bratton, Chanelle Bessette

9 Tips for Using a Credit Card in a Foreign Country

Depending on where you're going, you may need a backup credit card and some cash. It pays to plan ahead.

Chanelle Bessette's profile picture
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Chanelle Bessette, Sara Rathner

5 Things to Know About the Sprint Credit Card

This card is no longer taking applications, but that's just as well. Any number of cards can deliver more value and flexibility.

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Kenley Young

How Credit Card Issuers Calculate Minimum Payments

Your minimum is usually based on a percentage of your balance — a small percentage. If you want to get out of debt, pay more than the minimum.

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Claire Tsosie

Can I Pay Rent With a Credit Card?

In short, yes — but often for a fee or other trade-offs. Make sure the convenience is worth the potential cost to your wallet or your credit scores.

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Melissa Lambarena

Authorized User vs. Joint Cardholder: What’s the Difference?

Authorized users can run up debt but aren't responsible for paying it. Joint account holders are both liable for the debt.

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Claire Tsosie

5 Ways to Reduce Credit Card Interest

The average household with revolving credit card debt will pay $1,155 in interest charges this year.

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Erin El Issa

2017 American Household Credit Card Debt Study

As Americans' credit card balances continue to climb, many blame their own debt on unnecessary spending. That's actually good news: It means they can take steps to stop buying, pay down their balances and cut their interest costs.

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Erin El Issa

How Serious a Crime Is Credit Card Theft and Fraud?

Studies suggest it's a large problem in the U.S., but punishment varies from state to state. Learn steps to protect yourself.

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Chanelle Bessette