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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

A woman with a shopping bag paying with a credit card.
Oct. 14, 2019 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Balance Transfers are up 38% Since 2015 -- Here's Why

Understand some of the reasons why Americans are transferring credit card balances and whether the trend is likely to continue.
Oct. 13, 2019 | By Kailey Hagen

What Happens to Your Store Credit Card When the Store Closes?

Stores close and sometimes their credit cards close with them. Here's what you need to know if it happens to you.
One hand passing a credit card to another hand.
Oct. 13, 2019 | By Motley Fool Money Staff

Is It a Good Idea to Transfer Credit Card Debt?

Transferring a credit card balance to a new card with a 0% introductory APR can save you a lot of money -- if you do it right.
A chalkboard resting on a desk with a piggy bank and the words Credit Score drawn on it.
Oct. 12, 2019 | By Dana George

Want to Protect Your Credit Score? Avoid These 5 Paths to Ruin

These five paths are littered with stumbling blocks, any one of which could damage your credit. This is how you avoid them.
A blank scoreboard in the middle of some foliage.
Oct. 12, 2019 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

22% of Americans Don't Have a Credit Score -- Here's Why

Did you know that more than one-fifth of American adults have no credit score at all?
Oct. 11, 2019 | By Lyle Daly

5 Credit Card Perks That Are Completely Overrated

Many credit card benefits are actually useful, but here are five that don't deliver.
Oct. 11, 2019 | By Kailey Hagen

5 Signs You're a Target for Identity Thieves

In the internet age, it's easier than ever for thieves to steal your identity. If you've done any of these five things, you could be their next target.
A woman reading papers at an office desk.
Oct. 10, 2019 | By Kailey Hagen

5 Times You Need to Check Your Credit Reports

Do yourself a favor and verify that your credit reports are accurate by checking them whenever one of these five scenarios applies to you.
A woman holding a credit card and typing on a laptop.
Oct. 9, 2019 | By Kailey Hagen

5 Ways a Late Credit Card Payment Can Really Hurt You

The effects of a late payment are far-reaching. Here are five examples of how it can hurt you.
Woman in hat facing away and taking photos of an enormous old church across a bay.
Oct. 8, 2019 | By Elizabeth Aldrich

The Best Budget Destinations to Travel to in Your 40s

These cities will fill your next vacation with once-in-a-lifetime experiences without draining your bank account.
woman sitting at desk looking away and holding up her hand as a coworker tries to hand her a document.
Oct. 7, 2019 | By Motley Fool Money Staff

5 Crucial Factors the FICO Score Ignores

While FICO may be the king of credit scoring, it overlooks key factors in creditworthiness.
Man with massive beard cutting up credit card with pair of scissors.
Oct. 5, 2019 | By Kailey Hagen

Don't Close That Credit Card Without Asking Yourself These 6 Questions

You need to understand the effects of your decision. Start by asking yourself these questions.
birthday gift with map wrapping paper
Oct. 5, 2019 | By Elizabeth Aldrich

9 Essential Tips for a Fabulous Destination Birthday on a Budget

Ready to get away for your next birthday? Here's how to do it without breaking the bank.
roller bag packed for vacation
Oct. 4, 2019 | By Lyle Daly

The Fast, Easy Way to Plan a Great Vacation

Taking forever to plan your vacation? Learn how to make your travel planning much faster and simpler.
destination wedding venue overlooking ocean
Oct. 3, 2019 | By Elizabeth Aldrich

5 Best Budget Destinations for Your Wedding

If you're looking to travel for your wedding without breaking the bank, here are the best places to go.
Sept. 30, 2019 | By Kailey Hagen

5 Perks You Can Only Get With a High Credit Score

Your credit score determines your eligibility for loans and credit cards, but here are a few lesser-known incentives for keeping your score high.
Couple in their 30s smiling while traveling.
Sept. 29, 2019 | By Elizabeth Aldrich

The Best Budget Destinations to Travel to in Your 30s

If you're looking for a mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure without breaking the bank, here are the best vacation destinations to travel to in your 30s.
Sept. 29, 2019 | By Kailey Hagen

The Most Important Credit Move You're Probably Not Making

Keeping your credit score high requires many good financial habits. Here's one that most people forget about.
Sept. 25, 2019 | By Lyle Daly

How to Avoid 7 of the Most Frustrating Travel Headaches

Do you often find yourself stressed out when you travel? Learn how you can solve every issue that comes your way.
Sept. 23, 2019 | By Lyle Daly

Economy, Business, or First Class: Which Should You Pick?

Which is best: economy, business, or first class? Here's how to choose the one that will provide the best combination of comfort and value.
Worried-looking woman on phone holding at prepaid card.
Sept. 22, 2019 | By Dana George

The (Mostly) Bad News About Prepaid Cards

Prepaid cards allow people who don't have a credit or debit card to make cash-free payments, but they come with a hefty price tag.
Man standing on riverbank with suitcase in tow.
Sept. 22, 2019 | By Lyle Daly

Upgrading Your Airfare: What Works and What Doesn't

Get a better seat on your next flight by learning which upgrade methods work and which are a waste of time.
An aerial view of Rome and the Coliseum.
Sept. 21, 2019 | By Kailey Hagen

5 Costly Travel Mistakes You Didn't Realize You Were Making

Make sure you don't accidentally run up unexpected bills while you're traveling. Here are five big mistakes to avoid.
Sept. 20, 2019 | By Lyle Daly

Can You Earn Credit Card Points From Gift Card Purchases?

If used carefully, buying gift cards can be a clever way to earn points, but it depends on your credit card.
The wing of an airplane high above the earth.
Sept. 18, 2019 | By Lyle Daly

Is Buying Airline Miles Ever a Good Decision?

See whether buying airline miles is worth the cost or something you should avoid doing.