NerdWallet's Star Rating Methodologies
At NerdWallet, we believe in transparency. That's why we share things like how we make money — and how we rate products. NerdWallet's star rating methodologies meet strict editorial guidelines and take into account dozens of data points that affect consumers and small-business owners.


Ratings are determined by experienced writers, editors and researchers. In addition to NerdWallet, their work has appeared in The New York Times, The Associated Press, The Washington Post, Yahoo Finance and other national and local media outlets.

Methodologies by topic area are below. For questions about specific ratings, please reach out to the appropriate member of our editorial team.
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Star rating methodologies by topic