How NerdWallet Determines Star Ratings

NerdWallet assigns star ratings to hundreds of financial products and providers using comprehensive rubrics devised by our team of subject matter experts. We analyze hundreds of thousands of data points to help you understand your options and make decisions with confidence.

47 Distinct methodologies

1,800+ Products and providers rated

800+ Years of editorial experience

NerdWallet's star ratings are the product of ongoing research by writers and editors with hundreds of years of combined experience in covering personal finance. Formulas behind the ratings have been refined over more than a decade and are regularly pressure-tested and adjusted to reflect the evolution of the marketplace.

Our ratings process follows our strict editorial guidelines. At the core of those guidelines is editorial independence: Many of the products we review are from NerdWallet partners, but those business relationships have no influence on our ratings.

We believe in transparency. We are upfront about how we make money and which providers are our partners. Follow the links below to learn exactly how we determine the ratings you see on our pages.