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Credit Card Articles

Articles about choosing the right credit card, and how to get the most from the ones you have.
 
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Recent Articles

Amex Platinum mirror card design paying for breakfast meal.
Sept. 19, 2025 | By James McClenathen

Amex Platinum Benefits: Your Guide to the 2025 Update

The Amex Platinum Card's annual fee has gone up, but several new benefits could make up for the cost. Learn all the important details of the Amex Platinum update.
A desk with a chalkboard with drawing of a piggy bank and a checkmark next to Excellent Credit Score.
Sept. 18, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

Here's What Happens When Your Credit Score Reaches a Perfect 850

Hitting an 850 credit score sounds epic, but does it really change anything? Here's what actually happens when you reach the top.
A man looking through paper bills while sitting on a couch in front of a laptop.
Sept. 17, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

I Pay My Credit Card Bill Every Week. Here's Why

Paying my credit card weekly helps me stay on top of spending, avoid interest, and benefits my credit profile. Here's why it works so well.
Man using laptop to search for flights.
Sept. 17, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

5 Places You Should Never Swipe Your Debit Card

Debit cards can leave your money exposed. Here are five risky places where swiping could cost you more than you think.
Person holding phone and paperwork on a clipboard and making calculations while sitting on a couch.
Sept. 11, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

How Much Money Could a Balance Transfer Save You? Here's the Math

Learn how much a balance transfer could save you in interest -- with real numbers and a quick way to find the right card.
Couple smiling while reviewing something on smartphone screen.
Sept. 11, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

Cash Back vs. Points: Which Is Better?

Find out how each rewards system works, when to use them, and how to maximize your card benefits for the most value.
Three people sitting in consecutive aisle seats on an airplane.
Sept. 9, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

5 Little Habits That Keep Frequent Flyers in Business Class

Want to fly business class without paying sky-high prices? Learn about these five smart travel habits that can help you upgrade your seat for less.
woman sitting on couch reading document while holding her head
Sept. 6, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

3 Shocking Reasons You Can Be Denied a Credit Card With an 800 Credit Score

Even with a perfect credit score, you can still be denied a credit card. Find out why it can happen and how to bounce back.
Two people looking at credit score on phone.
Sept. 1, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

7 Credit Score Myths You Can't Afford to Believe

Don't let common credit myths tank your finances. Here are the biggest misconceptions about credit scores, and the truth you need to know.
A travel credit card sits atop a stack of four hundred dollar bills.
Aug. 31, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

I Write About Credit Cards for a Living. Here's How I Earn $1,300+ in Rewards Each Year

Every dollar I spend goes on a rewards card, and I open new cards strategically to rack up over $1,300 per year. Here's how I make it work
A map with computer, notepad, passports, and other travel supplies.
Aug. 29, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

Stop Hoarding Credit Card Points: Here's How to Transfer Them for Bucket-List Travel

Millions of points go unused every year. Here's how to transfer your credit card rewards for high-value business class travel instead.
Man scratching his head and looking at a phone.
Aug. 18, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

What to Do if Your Credit Card Application Gets Denied

Got denied for a credit card? Here's how to bounce back, fix what went wrong, and improve your odds of approval next time.
An upset man reading over his bills with his hand on his face.
Aug. 16, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

My Credit Score Is 822. Here's Why Amex and Citi Denied My Credit Card Application

A perfect credit score doesn't guarantee approval. Here's why I got denied by Amex and Citi, and what you can learn from my experience.
A woman reading papers at an office desk.
Aug. 15, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

5 Reasons You Can Be Denied a Credit Card (Besides Your Credit Score)

Even with an excellent credit score, a lender can still reject you. Here are five other factors that might stand in your way.
Man using laptop to view his excellent credit score of 811.
Aug. 14, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

4 Traits of Americans With a Perfect 850 Credit Score

Only 1.54% of Americans have a perfect 850 credit score. Learn the main habits they share, and how using them can boost your own score.
Online Shopping With a Credit Card
Aug. 12, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

5 Places You Should Never Use a Debit Card

Debit cards lack the rewards and protection of credit cards. Learn when using one could cost you more than you think.
Three people sitting in consecutive aisle seats on an airplane.
Aug. 12, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

5 Mistakes That Keep You Stuck in Economy Class Seats

A young couple sitting on their couch and looking over their bills.
Aug. 11, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

I Got Denied for 2 Credit Cards -- Even With an 820+ Credit Score. Here's Why

A perfect credit score isn't a golden ticket. Here's why I got rejected by Amex and Citi, and how you can avoid the same mistakes.
Airplane passenger flying business class
Aug. 9, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

5 Habits of Travelers Who Always Fly Business Class

Want to fly business class without paying sky-high prices? Learn about these five smart travel habits that can help you upgrade your seat for less.
woman sitting on couch reading document while holding her head
Aug. 6, 2025 | By Joel O'Leary

3 Surprising Reasons You Can Be Denied a Credit Card, Even With an 800+ Credit Score

Even with a perfect credit score, you can still be denied a credit card. Find out why it can happen and how to bounce back.
Smiling woman lying on her couch, using her cell phone, and holding her credit card.
Aug. 1, 2025 | By Ryan Wilcox

3 Little-Known Perks of Having a High Credit Score

A credit score of 750 or higher can save you serious money and unlock valuable financial perks. Here are three surprising benefits of excellent credit.
A stylish young woman celebrating and throwing confetti in the air.
July 25, 2025 | By Ryan Wilcox

3 Signs You're Ready for a Premium Credit Card

Wondering if you can justify getting a premium credit card? Here are three signs you're ready to apply and make the most of its perks.
credit scores listed on chalkboard, with 5-star box checked
July 22, 2025 | By Ryan Wilcox

Here's What Happens When Your Credit Score Reaches 850

Hitting an 850 credit score is impressive, but is it necessary? Learn what it means and how it can impact your life -- or not.
A plain silver credit card on a background featuring various luggage.
July 19, 2025 | By Ryan Wilcox

3 Little‑Known Perks You Only Get With a High‑End Credit Card

These underrated premium card perks can save you hundreds on travel. See which high-end cards offer the best hidden benefits.
A magnifying glass on top of "0%" against a blue background.
July 15, 2025 | By Jake FitzGerald

Industry Insiders Quietly Refinance Debt to Save Thousands of Dollars. Here's One Secret You Can Copy

Industry insiders refinance credit card debt with 0% intro APR balance transfer cards to save thousands. Here's how you can copy this smart move.