Hyatt is changing how customers can book travel through the World of Hyatt rewards program. The hospitality giant announced a new technology agreement between affiliates of Hyatt and Sabre Corporation, a leading provider of software and technology that powers the global travel industry, including dynamic pricing.
What is Sabre?
Under the new agreement, Sabre’s SynXis Central Reservation System will become the main Central Reservation System (CRS) for Hyatt hotels beginning in 2024. The Sabre booking platform provides guests with a seamless and efficient experience, including a faster search and booking process.
The Sabre Global Distribution System is a travel reservation system used by travel agents and companies to search, price, book, and ticket travel services provided by airlines, hotels, car rental companies, rail providers, and tour operators. Sabre (short for “Semi-automated Business Research Environment”) was initially designed through a partnership between American Airlines and IBM in the 1960s.
What Do the Changes Mean?
According to a Hyatt press release, the new partnership seeks to simplify the hotel booking system, providing best-in-class modularity and flexibility, increased automation, organizational growth empowered by innovation, and the ability to drive deeper collaboration across commercial teams.
But what does this change really mean for travelers who prefer to stay with the Hyatt brands or hold a World of Hyatt credit card? Essentially, it means your points might reduce in value, as dynamic pricing is mostly beneficial for the chain and not the guest. Dynamic pricing algorithms automatically change based on market conditions, like the day of the week, holidays, seasons, and even local traditions.
Still, the switch to Sabre will provide World of Hyatt members with some new perks, including:
Flexible Calendar: Guests searching for availability will have a more intuitive and efficient calendar view, including key dates when special promotions are available and when World of Hyatt members can redeem their points for the highest value.
Enhanced Rooms/Views: Hotels can quickly synchronize reservation modifications, enabling guests and colleagues to access newly available rooms in real time. Hotels will also be able to share dynamic packages, allowing guests to customize aspects of their stay individually.
Efficient Booking: The platform is designed to simplify the booking process by unlocking the best rates for guests through advanced purchase rates and streamlining the processing for hotel colleagues.
“Empowering the Hospitality Industry”
“All of our business decisions are driven by our purpose – we care for people so they can be their best – and that begins with empathy and listening,” said Eben Hewitt, chief information officer of Hyatt. “As part of our transformative growth journey, we heard directly from owners and franchise management companies that we had an opportunity to create a more efficient and streamlined Central Reservation System, and after a very thorough evaluation, we decided that Sabre would be the perfect provider for Hyatt’s global portfolio to make the search and booking process even better for guests.”
“I am thrilled to announce that Sabre’s reservation system has been selected by Hyatt to advance its technology strategy, enhance its reservation capabilities, and improve its guests’ experience,” said Scott Wilson, president of Sabre Hospitality Solutions. “At Sabre, we are committed to enabling our customers to achieve their goals by delivering the technology that forms the foundation of their operations and future innovation. This collaboration represents our dedication to empowering the hospitality industry and elevating the guest experience.”
“Our collaboration with Sabre will also simplify operations for on- and off-property colleagues that will result in enhanced experiences for our guests, World of Hyatt members, and customers,” added Jessica White, senior vice president of global property & guest services. “Adopting Sabre as our new Central Reservation System will increase the distribution breadth and reach of our brands and personalized direct booking experiences across our global portfolio.”
Gas rewards are among the most sought-after category in credit card benefits – more so now with high gas prices. Who doesn’t want to earn points, cash back, or rebates on every purchase at the pump? With so many gas cards on the market, it can be tough to find the right offer for you, but we’ve shortlisted a few that stand out from the rest. Here are our top picks for the best credit cards for gas rewards.
Gas rewards credit cards offer exclusive rewards on purchases of gasoline at gas stations and typically provide bonuses like cash back. However, some options let cardholders use their gas savings towards other types of loyalty program rewards.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent / Good
MastercardProcessing Network
$0Annual Fee
Citi Custom Cash℠ Card
18.99% – 28.99% (Variable)Regular Purchase APR
18.99% – 28.99% (Variable)Balance Transfer APR
29.99% (Variable)Cash Advance APR
0% for 15 months on PurchasesIntro Purchase APR
At a
Glance
The Citi Custom Cash? Card is a generous cash back credit card that offers up to 5% back on eligible purchases. The card, from Citi, does not charge an annual fee and rewards 5% back on the top spending category each month, with options including transit, travel, gas, groceries, dining, and more.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.99% – 28.99%, based on your creditworthiness.
Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
No Annual Fee
Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash℠ Card account per person.
Intro Purchase APR:
0% for 15 months on Purchases
Regular Purchase APR:
18.99% – 28.99% (Variable)
Intro Balance Transfer APR:
0% for 15 months on Balance Transfers
Balance Transfer APR:
18.99% – 28.99% (Variable)
Balance Transfer Transaction Fee:
5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.
Cash Advance APR:
29.99% (Variable)
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
5% of each cash advance; $10 minimum
Penalty APR:
Up to 29.99% (Variable)
Annual Fee:
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee:
3%
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $41
Return Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $41
You want to earn 5% back but do’t want quarterly categories
You plan on spending $1,500 within the first 90 days
You have a large purchase in mind that you want to pay down over time
You plan on transferring an existing balance within the first four months
The 5% back in rewards applies to the first $500 spent every billing period. Any eligible purchases after that threshold will earn 1% back. Here are the 5% back categories:
Other noteworthy features of the Custom Cash credit card from Citi include 15 months of 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers and a $200 cash back welcome bonus after making $750 in purchases within the first three months of opening an account.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent / Good / Fair
MastercardProcessing Network
NoneAnnual Fee
Sam’s Club® Mastercard®
20.9% or 28.9% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
20.9% or 28.65% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateBalance Transfer APR
25.90% or 31.65% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateCash Advance APR
At a
Glance
The Sam’s Club® Mastercard® offers Sam’s Club members everywhere up to 5% cash back on gas purchases, 3% back on dining, and more – all for no annual fee. From Synchrony Bank, the card also features no foreign transaction fees, Mastercard’s near-global acceptance, and special savings when shopping at Sam’s locations nationwide.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
Earn 5% cash back on gas anywhere Mastercard is accepted (on first $6,000 per year, then 1%)
Earn 3% cash back on Sam’s Club purchases for Plus members. Club members earn 1% cash back
Earn 3% cash back on dining and takeout
Earn 1% cash back on other purchases at Sam’s Club and wherever Mastercard is accepted
No annual fee
Regular Purchase APR:
20.9% or 28.9% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Balance Transfer APR:
20.9% or 28.65% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Balance Transfer Transaction Fee:
Either $10 or 4% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Cash Advance APR:
25.90% or 31.65% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
You’re a current Sam’s Club or Sam’s Club Plus member
You frequently purchase gasoline with a credit card
You do’t want to pay an annual fee or foreign transaction fee
The Sam’s Club® Mastercard® is a versatile cash back rewards card that offers members exclusive savings and features no annual fee with a valid Sam’s Club membership.
The card’s major highlight is its impressive savings on gas purchases, earning rewards at a rate of 5% cash back on gas purchases anywhere Mastercard is accepted. While that 5% earning rate is capped up to the first $6,000 spent per year (after that, 1% back on all gas station purchases), that total amounts to $500 per month that you could get in return.
The Sam’s Club card also earns 3% back on Sam’s Club purchases for Plus members, with regular members earning 1% back on Sam’s Club purchases. In addition, the card earns 3% back on dining purchases – including takeout. All other purchases with the card receive 1% back at Sam’s Club and wherever Mastercard is accepted worldwide.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent / Good
VisaProcessing Network
NoneAnnual Fee
PenFed Platinum Rewards VISA Signature® Card
17.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
17.99%Balance Transfer APR
17.99%Cash Advance APR
At a
Glance
The PenFed Platinum Rewards VISA Signature® is big on gas and groceries; earn 5x points per dollar spent on purchases made at the pump, 3x points for grocery purchases, and 1x points for all other purchases. Take advantage of a great introductory offer – 0% APR for balance transfers for up to 12 months and a special bonus statement credit as you earn points on everyday purchases towards travel, shopping and gift cards.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
5X points per dollar spent on gas at the pump and EV charging stations and 3X points on groceries. 1X points on all other purchases
15,000 bonus points when you spend $1,500 in first 90 days of card account opening
0% intro APR on balance transfers for 12 months after account opening
No annual fees and no foreign transaction fees
Regular Purchase APR:
17.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Intro Balance Transfer APR:
0% for 12 months from account opening date
Balance Transfer APR:
17.99%
Balance Transfer Transaction Fee:
3% of the transfer amount
Cash Advance APR:
17.99%
Penalty APR:
17.99%
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $28
Return Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $25
You spend money on gas and groceries often
You will spend $1,500 in the first 90 days to earn a 15,000 bonus points
You want a card with no annual fees and no foreign transaction fees
You want to transfer a large balance with no interest for 12 months
The PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature is an impressive gas rewards card that only misses out on the top spots because of its reduced availability. However, that doesn’t mean that the card isn’t one of the premier gas rewards credit cards today.
Issued by Pentagon Federal Credit Union, the card earns an impressive 5X points per dollar spent on purchases made at gas stations, 3X points for grocery purchases, and 1X points for all other purchases. The card also comes with 15,000 bonus points (after spending at least $1,500 in purchases in the first 90 days), a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for the first year, and no annual fee. Moreover, you can redeem your points on travel, gift cards, or merchandise shopping.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent / Good
American ExpressProcessing Network
$150Annual Fee
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
20.99% to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
29.99% variable based on the Prime RateCash Advance APR
At a
Glance
If you regularly stay at Hilton properties, the accelerated ability to earn bonus points and a sizable introductory bonus offer help the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card really stand out. Card members also receive complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status, which entitles them to guaranteed member discounts, digital check-in, complimentary breakfast, and a host of other perks, all for a competitive annual fee.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio
6X Hilton Honors points per $1 spent on purchases at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, U.S. groceries, U.S. online retail, and U.S. gas stations
3X Hilton Honors points on all eligible purchases
Complimentary Gold status with your card
Free Weekend Night Reward after spending $30,000 on your card in a calendar year
No foreign transaction fees
Earn 170,000 bonus points and a free night after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership
Regular Purchase APR:
20.99% to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
Cash Advance APR:
29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
Penalty APR:
29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
Annual Fee:
$150
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
Return Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
You regularly stay at Hilton properties and want to quickly earn Hilton Honors Bonus Points
You will spend enough with the card in the first three months of opening an account to earn a very generous welcome offer
You want the convenient benefits that come with complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status, as well as Hilton Honors Diamond status if you spend $40,000 on eligible purchases through the end of the next calendar year
The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is a hotel rewards card that offers considerable value for its modest $95 annual fee. Part of that value comes from the 6X points it earns at U.S. gas stations, grocery stores, and U.S. restaurants (including takeout and delivery services). Additionally, the card earns 12X points on eligible purchases at Hilton resorts and properties worldwide.
While the rewards earned with the Surpass card aren’t in the form of cash back, Hilton Honors points provide quality value in exchange. For example, the 6X points on gas have an approximate value of 3.2% cash back – demonstrating why the Surpass makes the cut for “best credit cards for gas rewards.” Hilton Honors points are redeemable for award nights at Hilton properties, shopping for merchandise, pooling with family or friends, or you can transfer them to over 40 partner airline loyalty programs.
However, the Surpass provides even greater value beyond the lucrative rewards. The card also grants ten free airport lounge visits annually (upon enrollment) through Priority Pass Select. That perk normally costs $299 a year – more than triple the card’s $95 annual fee.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent
MastercardProcessing Network
NoneAnnual Fee
AARP® Essential Rewards Mastercard® from Barclays
21.99%, 25.99% or 30.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
21.99%, 25.99% or 30.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateBalance Transfer APR
31.49% variable based on the Prime RateCash Advance APR
At a
Glance
The AARP® Essential Rewards Mastercard® from Barclays is a versatile rewards credit card for seniors over the age of 50. The card offers up to 3% cash back on gas and drug store purchases and 2% back on most medical expenses – all for no annual fee.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
No annual fee
0% APR for 15 months on balance transfers
Earn 3% back on gas station and drug store purchases
Earn 2% back on medical expenses
Regular Purchase APR:
21.99%, 25.99% or 30.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Intro Balance Transfer APR:
0% for 15 months from account opening date
Balance Transfer APR:
21.99%, 25.99% or 30.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Balance Transfer Transaction Fee:
Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Cash Advance APR:
31.49% variable based on the Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
Foreign Transaction Fee:
3% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $39
Return Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $39
You are an AARP member
You prefer cash back rewards over travel perks
You have an existing credit card balance to pay down at a lower interest rate
You might not think of AARP and gas rewards in the same breath, but for seniors looking to save, the AARP® Essential Rewards Mastercard® from Barclays is an exceptional offer to consider. A sibling to the AARP® Travel Rewards Mastercard, the Essential Rewards Card earns 3% cash back on both gas station and drug store purchases. Cardholders also earn 2% back on medical expenses, which can be valuable for many AARP members. Here’s how AARP classifies eligible medical transactions:
Eligible AARP® Medical Purchases
Dentists
Orthodontists
Osteopaths
Chiropractors
Optometrists
Ophthalmologists
Opticians
Chiropodists
Podiatrists
Hospitals
Medical & Dental Labs
Ambulances
Hearing Aids
Glasses and Lenses
Orthopedics
Prosthetics
Nursing & Care Services
Medical Services & Health Practitioners Not Elsewhere Classified (NEC)
Doctors Not Elsewhere Classified (NEC)
Other Related MCCs
All other purchases with the card earn 1% back, with no limit to the total amount of rewards earnable, and rewards never expire if the account is open and in good standing. Rewards are redeemable for airfare, hotel bookings, or as statement credits or deposits into linked external bank accounts.
Additionally, new accounts enjoy a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on balance transfers made within 45 days of opening an account; a competitive, variable APR after that; and no annual fees. Put all that together and you have a decent rewards card for new or future AARP members. And to top it all off, you don’t even have to be 65+ to join.
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The GM Business Card™ from Marcus by Goldman Sachs is a versatile business rewards credit card that can help companies earn at the pump and elsewhere for no annual fee. The card lacks versatile redemption options but provides lucrative rewards for vehicle servicing, parts, office supplies, dining, and gas station purchases. Here’s how the card’s rewards break down:
5% back on parts, service, and accessories at authorized GM Dealers
3% back at gas stations, restaurants, and office supply stores
1% back on all other purchases
The card also includes a 0% intro APR period, where new accounts can take advantage of zero interest for 12 months on purchases – followed by a competitive, variable rate after that. Even better, the GM Business credit card comes with a fairly easy-to-reach welcome offer. Add in complimentary employee cards, no foreign transaction fees or cash advance fees, and Mastercard Business protections, and you have a quality business gas card for everyday use.
When you travel to another country, a credit card with no foreign transaction fees will come in handy to stretch your budget and avoid unwanted extra charges. We have curated a list below of the best cards you can find with no foreign transaction fees for your travel adventures.
Best Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fees
Traveling internationally calls for good budgeting skills, so why not avoid foreign transaction fees when shopping abroad? Below you will find credit cards to fit a variety of lifestyles – from luxury travel to building credit on your adventures – so read on and explore the pick that best fits your needs.
Best Cards With Annual Fees (Luxury)
Do you find yourself living an elevated lifestyle? If so, these luxury credit cards may be the right pick for you. All feature no foreign transaction fees, plus some of the most sought-after credit card travel benefits – like lounge access, travel credits, reward miles, and more.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent / Good
MastercardProcessing Network
$395Annual Fee
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
21.99% - 28.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
21.99% - 28.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateBalance Transfer APR
28.99% variable based on the Prime RateCash Advance APR
At a
Glance
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card provides huge travel perks, impressive miles on every purchase, and more – for a $395 annual fee. New accounts also enjoy 75,000 miles after making $4,000 in purchases in the first three months.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Receive up to $300 back annually as statement credits for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of options
Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and our Partner Lounge Network
Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more-you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
Elevate your stay at luxury hotels and resorts from the Premier Collection with a $100 experience credit, daily breakfast for 2 and complimentary WiFi on every booking, plus other premium benefits like room upgrades, early check-in and late checkout when available
Regular Purchase APR:
21.99% - 28.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Balance Transfer APR:
21.99% - 28.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Balance Transfer Transaction Fee:
3% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that we may offer you. None for balances transferred at the Transfer APR.
Cash Advance APR:
28.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
3% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $3
Annual Fee:
$395
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
You travel often, and want a card that provides lounge access, elite status, and more
You plan on issuing cards to multiple authorized users
You plan on spending at least $4,000 on the card in the first three months
If you’re looking for luxury, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a promising choice. It’s a travel rewards card with all the bells and whistles, like airport lounge access, travel credits, hotel credits, and more. It has everything you might need to support your travel needs, including a 10,000-mile anniversary bonus equal to a $100 value for cardholders.
Let’s not forget the miles you can pile up with the Venture X Rewards Credit Card. Earn up to 10x miles per dollar on hotel stays, car rentals, flights, and more. Of course, the lucrative rewards and benefits do not come without a price. The Venture X card has a $395 annual fee; however, its benefits hold more value than the annual fee costs – provided that you take advantage of all of them.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent
MastercardProcessing Network
$699 ($249 for each Authorized User added to the account)Annual Fee
Mastercard® Black Card®
19.74% to 27.74% Variable, based on your creditworthiness and other factorsRegular Purchase APR
19.74% to 27.74% Variable, based on your creditworthiness and other factorsBalance Transfer APR
29.99%. This APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate.Cash Advance APR
At a
Glance
An exclusive and complete credit card, the Mastercard® Black Card® is a statement piece that offers a wide range of unique benefits not found anywhere else. Beyond a 2% redemption rate for airfare and 1.5% for cash back, the Black Card provides a full lifestyle experience that goes beyond just amassing points – and that more than makes up for its annual costs. Once approved, customers can expect 24/7 personalized concierge service, VIP discounts, and attractive memberships.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
Redeem at 2% value for airfare and 1.5% for cash back. Just 50,000 points will get you a $1,000 ticket on any airline or $750 cash back, issued as a direct deposit statement credit.
Earn 2X points on Airfare and Hotel reservations booked through LuxuryCardTravel.com. One point for every one dollar you spend for all other categories, earning points every time you spend.
$200 Annual Airline Credit: Receive up to $200 in annual air travel credits toward flight-related purchases, including airline tickets, baggage fees, upgrades and more.
$100 Annual Dining Credit: Get up to $100 in annual statement credits when you use your Luxury Card at qualifying restaurants.
Receive up to $120 reimbursment credit for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee. Global Entry includes access to TSA PreCheck® with no additional application or fee required.
24/7 Luxury Card Concierge®: Exclusive to Cardmembers. Your busy life never stops, and neither do our Luxury Card Concierge agents. Enjoy around-the-clock lifestyle management and planning support tailored to your specific needs—and designed to save you time. Our personalized one-on-one service delivers solutions, suggestions and even surprises to make every day exceptional. Book the trip. Get the reservations. Score the tickets.
With your Luxury Card, enjoy complimentary access to over 1,700 airport lounges and travel experiences in more than 600 cities across 145 countries with Priority Pass™ Select . Access includes unlimited visits for yourself as well as your guests.
Black-PVD-Coated Metal Card and Made of Stainless Steel®: Beautifully crafted and exceptionally premium, Luxury Card is a statement piece designed to stand out in the most refined way. Weighing in at an impressive 22 grams, its stainless steel, contactless patented card design and metal construction raises the standard. Carry a card with distinction.
Exclusive Luxury Card Travel® benefits—average value of $500 per stay (e.g., resort credits, room upgrades, free wifi, breakfast for two and more) at over 3,000 properties. Receive protection benefits like trip cancellation and interruption, auto rental car collision waiver, travel accident and baggage delay. Cell phone protection for eligible claims of up to $1,000 each year. Plus additional World Elite Mastercard® benefits.
Annual Fee: $699 ($249 for each Authorized User). Terms and conditions apply.
Regular Purchase APR:
19.74% to 27.74% Variable, based on your creditworthiness and other factors
Intro Balance Transfer APR:
0% introductory APR for the first fifteen billing cycles following each balance transfer that posts to your account within 45 days of account opening. After that, (and for balance transfers that do not post within 45 days of account opening) the APR will be 20.24% to 28.24%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors. This APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate.
Balance Transfer APR:
19.74% to 27.74% Variable, based on your creditworthiness and other factors
Balance Transfer Transaction Fee:
Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
Cash Advance APR:
29.99%. This APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate.
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
Annual Fee:
$699 ($249 for each Authorized User added to the account)
Foreign Transaction Fee:
0% of each transaction in U.S. dollars.
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $39
Return Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $39
You're a frequent traveler who aims to earn rewards that can be redeemed for airfare at an unmatched rate
You're looking to minimize your wallet via an everyday credit card that rewards on every redemption
You aim to stand out from the crowd with an expertly-crafted metal credit card weighing 22 grams
You're seeking a dedicated 24/7 Concierge service offering personalized assistance to meet a variety of requests
You stay at high-end hotels and exclusive resorts that offer Cardmembers amenities, breakfast vouchers and resort credits
You're interested in premium travel benefits and protections found in few competing credit cards
The next card on our list feels almost like always having a personal concierge in your wallet. The Mastercard® Black Card™ is a unique upscale credit card that has many of the usual high-end benefits, with two traits, in particular, standing out. One is the 24/7 Luxury Card Concierge® – an around-the-clock service that can help you save time and manage tasks of any size.
Whether you need valuable research, crisis management, special occasion planning, or connections, the Mastercard® Black Card™ concierge service can most likely make it happen. Fun fact: Luxury Card Concierge claims that within two hours, they were able to secure the jumbotron in Times Square for a Cardmember’s surprise marriage proposal.
The second stand-out trait is the card’s 2% value for airfare redemptions. Cardholders get 1 point for every $1 they spend, but if you redeem your points for airfare, the value increases to 2% (1.5% value for cash back redemptions) – a convenient reward benefit if you plan on doing lots of traveling.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent
American ExpressProcessing Network
$550Annual Fee
Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
20.99% to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
29.99% variable based on the Prime RateCash Advance APR
At a
Glance
The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is a behemoth of a hotel card, offering new cardmembers the ability to earn a hefty Hilton Honors bonus points welcome offer after making $6,000 in eligible purchases on the card within the first three months of the account opening. This card also grants the ability to earn a whopping 14x Hilton Honors points per dollar spent on direct Hilton hotel and resort purchases.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
14X points for Hilton hotels and resorts
7X points on flights booked directly with airlines or through amextravel.com, ca
7X points on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies
7X points at U.S. restaurants
3X points on all other purchases
Complimentary Diamond Status in the Hilton Honors rewards program
Anniversary bonus of one weekend night
Earn additional weekend night reward after spending $60,000 within calendar year
$400 Hilton resort statement credit
Regular Purchase APR:
20.99% to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Cash Advance APR:
29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
Penalty APR:
29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
Annual Fee:
$550
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
Return Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
You're capable and willing to spend $6,000 within the first three months of opening an account to receive the card’s welcome offer of bonus Hilton Honors points
You wantCLEAR security fast pass
You book stays at Hilton Resorts at least once per year
If we are listing cards with no foreign transaction fees, we have to mention hotel credit cards. For this reason, the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has made it on our list – a savvy choice for anyone who frequents Hilton hotels and resorts. Cardholders can earn up to 14x points per dollar for booking hotel stays, flights, car rentals, and more. You also get 3x points per dollar on all other eligible purchases that do not fall within specific purchase categories. Although the card does have a $450 annual fee, it holds up in value with benefits like its $250 airline fee credit, a $100 Hilton on-property credit, and the following additional perks:
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent
VisaProcessing Network
$550, each authorized user: $75 per yearAnnual Fee
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
21.74% to 28.74% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
21.74% to 28.74% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime RateBalance Transfer APR
29.49% variable based on the Prime RateCash Advance APR
At a
Glance
With the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card, luxury and travel rewards come together with this upper-tier card, which offers an attractive points system and includes a lengthy list of perks for any jet setter.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
$300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
Member FDIC
Regular Purchase APR:
21.74% to 28.74% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
Balance Transfer APR:
21.74% to 28.74% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
Balance Transfer Transaction Fee:
Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Cash Advance APR:
29.49% variable based on the Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
Penalty APR:
Up to 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
Annual Fee:
$550, each authorized user: $75 per year
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
Return Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
You travel often and want a card that provides worldwide value
You eat at restaurants frequently
You plan to use rewards for travel, which provides the best value for redemption
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is a classic choice and holds a variety of valuable benefits for cardholders. In addition to not charging for purchases made abroad, the Sapphire Reserve includes $1,200 in additional partnership value with partners like Priority Pass Select, Peloton, Instacart, and more. Moreover, the $300 annual travel credit is ideal for travelers looking forward to doing a little splurging on their trips.
Best Cards With Annual Fees (Mid-Range)
Luxury travel credit cards might not suit your needs, especially if the perks don’t fit your lifestyle. However, many mid-range credit cards offer similar benefits. Check out our picks for the best mid-range cards with annual fees and no foreign transaction fees.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent / Good
VisaProcessing Network
$95Annual Fee
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
20.74% to 27.74% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
20.74% to 27.74% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime RateBalance Transfer APR
29.49% variable based on Prime RateCash Advance APR
At a
Glance
For customers with a hunger for travel and (literally) dining, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers a robust set of rewards and perks to ensure that they get the most out of their purchases. Plus, a sizable introductory bonus allows them to begin collecting – and redeeming – points immediately.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
Member FDIC
Regular Purchase APR:
20.74% to 27.74% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
Balance Transfer APR:
20.74% to 27.74% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
Balance Transfer Transaction Fee:
Either $5 or 5% of each transfer amount, whichever is greater
Cash Advance APR:
29.49% variable based on Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
Either $10 or 5% of each transaction amount, whichever is greater
Penalty APR:
Up to 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
Annual Fee:
$95
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
Return Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
You travel often enough to make up for the annual fee
You'll take advantage of the travel insurance and other emergency perks
You're looking for flexibility when it comes to rewards, with the option to redeem for gift cards, flights and more
You plan to maximize your points by redeeming through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
You have a very good to excellent credit score, and can meet the spending requirement for the introductory bonus
The Chase Sapphire Preferred has a little bit of everything, albeit on a smaller scale when compared to its big brother, the Chase Sapphire Reserve. With this credit card, you can still earn travel rewards, statement credits, enjoy partner benefits, and more. To give some perspective on how valuable the benefit of no foreign transaction fees is, consider the following example: if you spend $5,000 internationally, you would have to pay $150 in foreign transaction fees at the typical 3% rate.
In addition, you can travel confidently with the Sapphire Preferred card’s built-in features like trip cancellation insurance, auto rental insurance, and baggage insurance. This card has a $95 annual fee – a big difference in price when compared to the Chase Sapphire Reserve – and yet it still holds plenty of value.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent
VisaProcessing Network
$95Annual Fee
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
21.99% - 28.99% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
20.99% - 28.99% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime RateBalance Transfer APR
20.99% variable based on the Prime RateCash Advance APR
At a
Glance
Through the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, you’ll be able to earn an unlimited 2X reward miles per dollar spent on every purchase, every day, meaning there aren’t any annoying categories to memorize to maximize your miles. New Venture cardholders are also entitled to a whopping 60,000 bonus miles after 60,000 miles after spending $3,000 in the first three months bonus offer.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
Miles wo't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Enjoy two complimentary visits per year to Capital One Lounges or to 100+ Plaza Premium Lounges through the Partner Lounge Network
Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase-or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
Regular Purchase APR:
21.99% - 28.99% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
Balance Transfer APR:
20.99% - 28.99% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
Balance Transfer Transaction Fee:
3% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that we may offer you. None for balances transferred at the Transfer APR.
Cash Advance APR:
20.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
3% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $3
Annual Fee:
$95
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
You travel frequently and can take advantage of the card’s 2X reward miles earning potential
You do not want to jump through hoops when it comes to categories that earn you bonus miles
You want an extra 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
If you’re trying to keep your travel credit card management as simple as possible, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card might be for you. With the Venture Rewards card, you can still earn rewards and enjoy perks for travel. The card earns you unlimited 2x miles per dollar on every purchase, so you won’t have to keep track of various reward categories. As a bonus, you can earn 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
While the card does have a $95 annual fee, you can receive a credit for up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® enrollment – a beneficial credit to have if you want to zoom through security checks or expand your budget when you travel internationally. And these are not the only airport perks available with the Venture Rewards card. Cardholders also get two complimentary airport lounge visits per year to relax while waiting on their flight.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent / Good
American ExpressProcessing Network
$150Annual Fee
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
20.99% to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
29.99% variable based on the Prime RateCash Advance APR
At a
Glance
If you regularly stay at Hilton properties, the accelerated ability to earn bonus points and a sizable introductory bonus offer help the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card really stand out. Card members also receive complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status, which entitles them to guaranteed member discounts, digital check-in, complimentary breakfast, and a host of other perks, all for a competitive annual fee.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio
6X Hilton Honors points per $1 spent on purchases at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, U.S. groceries, U.S. online retail, and U.S. gas stations
3X Hilton Honors points on all eligible purchases
Complimentary Gold status with your card
Free Weekend Night Reward after spending $30,000 on your card in a calendar year
No foreign transaction fees
Earn 170,000 bonus points and a free night after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership
Regular Purchase APR:
20.99% to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
Cash Advance APR:
29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
Penalty APR:
29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
Annual Fee:
$150
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
Return Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
You regularly stay at Hilton properties and want to quickly earn Hilton Honors Bonus Points
You will spend enough with the card in the first three months of opening an account to earn a very generous welcome offer
You want the convenient benefits that come with complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status, as well as Hilton Honors Diamond status if you spend $40,000 on eligible purchases through the end of the next calendar year
The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card also has a $95 annual fee. For Hilton fans, this card might be worth your time, as it also includes a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership. With it, you get ten free airport lounge visits each year. Additionally, cardholders get complimentary Hilton Honors Gold Status, a convenient membership for earning perks like a 5th night free on a standard room stay of 5+ booked nights. The Hilton Honors Surpass card also offers an additional free night reward. To earn it, cardholders must reach a high spending threshold of $15,000 within a calendar year – not a worthwhile benefit if you don’t plan on using this as your primary credit card year-round. Other included benefits:
Car rental insurance
Global Assist® Hotline for emergency assistance
Complimentary ShopRunner membership
Access to American Express Experiences
Best With No Annual Fee
Want a credit card with no foreign transaction fees and no annual fee? We got you covered. Check out the selections below, which will save you additional expenses both abroad and year-round.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent / Good
MastercardProcessing Network
NoneAnnual Fee
Bilt Mastercard
21.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
21.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateBalance Transfer APR
29.24% variable based on the Prime RateCash Advance APR
At a
Glance
The Bilt World Elite Mastercard is a unique rewards credit card from Wells Fargo that lets users earn 1X on monthly rent payments, 3X on travel, 2X on dining, and offers impressive perks including Lyft and DoorDash statement credits – all for no annual fee.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
No annual fee
No foreign transaction fees
Earn 1X points on rent payments (up to 50,000 points each calendar year)
Earn 2X points on travel
Earn 3X points on dining
Regular Purchase APR:
21.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Balance Transfer APR:
21.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Balance Transfer Transaction Fee:
Introductory fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each balance transfer, whichever is greater, for 120 days from account opening. After that, up to 5% for each balance transfer, with a minimum of $5
Cash Advance APR:
29.24% variable based on the Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance, whichever is greater
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
You rent and want to earn rewards on your monthly rental payments
Known for earning cardholders reward points on rent, the Bilt Mastercard also has no foreign transaction fees and no annual fee. The card does have its quirks, though. For example, to earn points, cardholders must use it five times each statement period – an easy quota to accomplish if you plan on using Bilt for your essential everyday purchases. The card earns customers 1x points per dollar on rent payments (without the transaction fee), 2x points on travel, 3x points on dining, and 1x points on all other purchases. Points also get doubled on Rent Day (the 1st of each month). So each Rent Day your rewards haul could come out to 6x points per dollar on dining, 4x points on travel, and 2x on all other purchases (except rent). To accompany you on your travels, the card also features many other convenient benefits, such as:
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Fair / Poor
VisaProcessing Network
NoneAnnual Fee
Chime Card™
See TermsRegular Purchase APR
See TermsCash Advance APR
At a
Glance
The Chime Card™ is a credit-builder product from Chime – a fintech that offers an assortment of financial products and services with no hidden fees. The card functions harmoniously with Chime’s other products and services, including their high-yield savings account.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
No annual fee or interest
No credit check performed when applying
No minimum security deposit required
Ideal for everyday purchases to help build credit with regular on-time payments
Checking account required
Regular Purchase APR:
See Terms
Cash Advance APR:
See Terms
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
$2.50 per transactio
You're seeking to build your credit score
You don’t want a credit check on your credit report
You don’t want the hassle of a minimum security deposit
You want access to high yield savings to help your money grow
If credit building is on your mind, but you also want to enjoy the perks of having a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, the Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa® Credit Card might be a good fit for you – it’s a secured credit card with no hidden fees. The only catch is that you need a Chime High Yields Savings account to work with the secured credit card. However, this isn’t a downside, since you can save money while building credit at the same time. The card has no annual fee, and no minimum security deposit is required, so you can budget at your own pace.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent
MastercardProcessing Network
NoneAnnual Fee
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
19.99% - 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
19.99% - 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateBalance Transfer APR
29.99% variable based on the Prime RateCash Advance APR
0% for the first 15 months from date of account openingIntro Purchase APR
At a
Glance
A younger sibling to the Savor® Rewards version, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card also highlights cash back on dining and entertainment while also extending an appealing 0% introductory APR offer.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other purchases
Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards
Cash back wo't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
No foreign transaction fee
No annual fee
You're covered by $0 Fraud Liability if your card is ever lost or stole
Intro Purchase APR:
0% for the first 15 months from date of account opening
Regular Purchase APR:
19.99% - 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Intro Balance Transfer APR:
0% for the first 15 months from date of account opening
Balance Transfer APR:
19.99% - 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Balance Transfer Transaction Fee:
3% of the amount of each transfer posted during the first 15 months from account opening. None for transfers that post thereafter
Cash Advance APR:
29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
3% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $3
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
You frequently dine out or make purchases in the entertainment category
You want a cash back credit card with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
You plan to pay for your groceries with a credit card over cash or debit
You're looking for exclusive cardmember perks that give access to unique experiences not available to the public
With the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card, you need excellent credit to apply.. However, it earns unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and at grocery stores – an ideal credit card for foodies and those who lead active lifestyles. Rewards redemption is simple, as it can all be redeemed for cash back of any amount. Similar to many of the cards that have made our list, the SavorOne Cash Rewards card offers travel protections that help you feel secure on your voyages. Such benefits include the following:
Travel accident insurance
Concierge service
24-hour travel assistance
Access to Capital One Travel for the best prices on trips
There is a whole lot more value coming to Marriott Bonvoy this fall. The leading loyalty program from Marriott International has inked a new 20-year partnership with MGM Rewards that will see Marriott Bonvoy become MGM’s exclusive hospitality loyalty partner in the United States. Here’s what you need to know:
MGM and Marriott Bonvoy Ink New Partnership
World of Hyatt and MGM Rewards ended their decade-long partnership earlier this week, but Hyatt’s loss is Marriott’s gain. Announced almost concurrently, the ending of the Hyatt deal was joined by the announcement of a new, 20-year partnership that will have 17 MGM resorts and casinos joining the 9,000+ Marriott Bonvoy properties worldwide this fall.
Through the new partnership, the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program become the exclusive hospitality loyalty program partner of BetMGM in the United States and Canada. Beyond taking over the day-to-day operations of the loyalty program, the 20-year agreement will allow Marriott Bonvoy members to earn Marriott Bonvoy points on certain BetMGM transactions and participate in exclusive games and experiences on the BetMGM platform. In addition, BetMGM Rewards members will have the opportunity to exchange their MGM rewards points for Marriott Bonvoy points.
MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy to Launch this October
Under the new partnership, select MGM properties will be available to Bonvoy members when the partnership officially launches in October 2023. Four MGM properties will join the existing Marriott Bonvoy collection of brands, broken down as follows:
Bellagio will join the Luxury Collection
ARIA will join the Autograph Collection
The Cosmopolitan will remain in the Autograph Collection
Park MGM will become part of the Tribute Portfolio
As announced in a press release, the new partnership will also see the creation of the MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy. Eight MGM resorts will join the MGM Collection, including Vdara, MGM Grand, NoMad, The Signature at MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, New York-New York, the Luxor, and Excalibur. An additional five resorts elsewhere in the United States will also join the collection, including Borgata in Atlantic City, Beau Rivage in Biloxi, MGM Grand Detroit in Michigan, MGM National Harbor in Maryland, and MGM Springfield in Massachusetts.
Marriott Bonvoy already provides exceptional variety for frequent travelers. The loyalty program covers more than 9,000 global properties spread out across more than 20 brands, including the following recognizable names:
AC Hotels
Element
JW Marriott
Ritz-Carlton
Aloft
Fairfield Inn
Le Meridien
Sheraton
Autograph Collection
Four Points
Marriott Hotels & Resorts
SpringHill Suites
Bulgari Hotels
Gaylord Hotels
Renaissance Hotels
Regis
Courtyard by Marriott
Homes & Villas by Marriott
Residence Inn
TownePlace Suites
Westin
W Hotels
Reciprocal Benefits
The MGM and Marriott partnership appears to be of a much more reciprocal nature than the casino and resort brand’s previous arrangements with Hyatt. Because of this, MGM and Marriott Bonvoy rewards members can anticipate greater status matches, tier credits, resort benefits, and more. It appears that MGM points will be transferrable to Marriott, one of the richest loyalty programs available.
Marriott Bonvoy points are versatile thanks to the program’s numerous transfer options. Members can transfer points to over 40 airline frequent flyer programs or other loyalty programs, including:
Both MGM and Marriott were quick to trumpet the news of the new partnership:
“This is a very robust relationship, not just a typical franchise agreement,” said Tony Capuano, President and CEO of Marriott International, Inc., at a press conference on July 17. “That’s really illustrated by the creation of The MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy. This is a relationship that allows us to take full advantage of the breadth of the entertainment, culinary, and sports offerings that MGM enjoys, and in turn, allows MGM and its loyalty members to take full advantage of our global portfolio.”
“This historic, long-term agreement brings together two of the most trusted and iconic brands in hospitality and entertainment,” added Bill Hornbuckle, President and Chief Executive Officer of MGM Resorts. “We’ve seen first-hand the strong demand from Marriott International customers through our existing relationship at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, and this new agreement will enable us to further optimize our overall profitability. We’re thrilled to now scale the relationship and offer Marriott Bonvoy members greater distribution access to our award-winning resorts as well as exclusive event and entertainment opportunities in Las Vegas and across the U.S.”
Additional Value for MGM and Marriott Cardholders
Perhaps the biggest winners in this new arrangement are the co-branded credit cardholders of the MGM and Marriott Bonvoy credit cards. MGM offers the MGM Rewards Mastercard® through FNBO, while Marriott offers several credit cards through American Express and Chase.
Cardholders will benefit from even greater options when traveling to resort hotspots across the United States. For frequent Vegas guests, the occasional high roller, or just the companies with business in Las Vegas, adding so many iconic resorts to the Bonvoy program is a major boost – especially so thanks to MGM Rewards’ gaming benefits.
A recent Experian report highlights current trends in retail credit card usage among consumers. The findings suggest that retail credit cards have a possible shrinking role in today’s economy. Here’s what you need to know.
Experian Research Shows Changes in Retail Card Balances
According to the Experian report’s findings, retail traffic has grown throughout 2022 – so much so that the total balance on store credit cards increased by $7.3 billion. The card balance jump brings the total retail debt up to $118.9 billion. As you can see, retail credit cards are not exactly slowing down in growth. However, in relation to traditional credit cards, they play a minor role in today’s economy.
What Is A Retail Credit Card?
A retail credit card is specific to a store or retailer. The difference between a retail store credit card and other credit cards is usually that you can only use them to make purchases at a particular retail store or group of stores. Reward redemption options might also be limited to only store-related credits and earning maximum rewards applies to store purchases only.
Types of Store Credit Cards
There are also usually two types of retail credit cards: a private label and a co-branded card. An example of this distinction is the Amazon Store Card (private label) vs. Amazon Visa or Prime Visa (co-branded). With co-branded credit cards, you may experience a bit more freedom and flexibility regarding card usage, rewards, and redemption options. You might also encounter more benefits found in traditional credit cards, like built-in travel protections, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
Another good example of a co-branded card is the Sam’s Club® Mastercard®. With it, you can earn 5% cash back on gas, up to 3% cash back on Sam’s Club purchases, 3% back on dining and takeout, and 1% cash back on all other purchases wherever Mastercard is accepted. Although the Sam’s Club Mastercard is a co-branded card, it still gives you the flexibility of earning rewards outside of the Sam’s Club store. Under the umbrella of retail cards, you may also encounter merchandise cards like the Unique Platinum Card or the Boost Platinum Card.
According to the Experian report’s findings, retail credit card debt increased by 6.5% in 2022. The increase is also partly affected by the current inflated economy. It is important to note that supply chain shortages have also simmered down since the start of the pandemic, which means goods were once again available for purchase in stores in 2022.
Supply shortages were common among durable goods like appliances, electronic equipment, and furniture – merchandise often purchased on retail credit cards. This might explain the retail credit card balance increase from $1,046 in Q3 2021 to $1,109 in Q3 2022.
Total Retail Card Debt
2019
2020
2021
2022
21-22 Change
$125.2 B
$114.9 B
$111.6 B
$118.9 B
+6.5%
Retail Cards V.S. Traditional Credit Cards
Although the 6.5% debt increase translates to $7.3 billion, it does not compare to traditional credit card debt growth. Outside of store cards, conventional credit card debt grew by 16% to $910 billion, from 2021 to 2022. Retail credit card debt reached $118.9 billion during the same period.
In other words, traditional credit card debt and average balances are ten times greater than retail credit card debt. For this reason, we can see the small role retail cards play compared to traditional cards. Consumers seem to be reaching for bank-issued credit cards for their purchases – and these are not the only payment options showing growth.
Other payment methods like Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL), or mobile payments like Apple Pay and Samsung Pay, have also made advancements in the dwindling retail credit card markets. Additionally, the rise of online shopping is another factor affecting store card markets.
Retail Card Balances Don’t Favor Specific Credit Scores
Average Retail Card Balance by Generation
2021
2022
Change
300-579 Poor
$1,264
$1,356
+7.3%
580-669 Fair
$1,578
$1,693
+7.3%
670-739 Good
$1,645
$1,718
+4.4%
740-799 Very good
$839
$894
+6.6%
800-850 Exceptional
$352
$377
+7.1%
Other report trends find that retail credit card balances increased among all credit scores at similar rates in 2022. The increase in credit scores ranges from 4.4% to 7.3% – less than the inflation rate standing at 8.2% during the same period. When it comes to retail card balance trends throughout the country, the western states saw the most growth in 2022. However, the highest increase happened in an eastern state: Maine balances grew by 10.1% in 2022.
Trends happening within generations shows younger consumers reaching more for their retail credit cards than using other payment options, like BNPL. Generation X in particular peaks the average balance of their retail cards at $1,422. In contrast, the older U.S. consumer balances increased very little.
The Bottom Line
While traditional credit cards play a larger role in today’s economy, and BNPL services continue to expand in use, retail credit cards still hold their place in consumers’ wallets. Despite their popularity mostly among the younger generations, store credit cards show growth. While the growth may be on a smaller scale compared to traditional credit cards, they still provide U.S. consumers with an additional option for making purchases at their convenience.
Although cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, has been around since 2009, crypto credit cards have only been around for a few years. The new crypto wave and even the latest NFT frenzy have come a long way. And although crypto has been part of popular financial conversations, the idea of crypto credit cards may not be a familiar topic among credit cardholders. So, how do crypto credit cards work? Here’s what you need to know.
Akin to Traditional Credit Cards
With most fiat currencies, investors invest and make the currency work for them. That is where crypto credit cards come in. Crypto credit cards are not only for investors. They are also a more accessible way for someone to start diversifying their crypto portfolio.
If you’re familiar with cash back credit cards, then you’re off to a great start at understanding crypto credit cards. There are a few on the market, and the basis of the crypto credit cards is for cardholders to earn crypto rewards when they make purchases.
Consider The Gemini Credit Card™, for example. The crypto earning card earns rewards in 60+ cryptos on every purchase. Cardholders can earn up to 3% back in crypto on purchases depending on the spend category, such as dining, groceries, and more.
Comparable to rewards or points earned with cash back credit cards and travel cards, The Gemini Credit Card™ earns back rewards in cryptocurrency. The flexibility of the card lands on the crypto coin options. As previously mentioned, you can earn crypto rewards in 60+ different cryptocurrencies supported by the Gemini platform, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more.
What Happens After You Earn Crypto
So, you’ve done some shopping with your crypto credit card and have earned plenty of crypto rewards. What’s next? After earning crypto rewards with a crypto credit card, the crypto goes into the cardholder’s card account. For example, after earning rewards with The Gemini Card, your earned crypto is instantly deposited into your Gemini account. You can also transfer crypto rewards from your account to a cryptocurrency wallet.
However, the instant crypto rewards provided by The Gemini Card are a unique feature. All other crypto credit cards disperse earned crypto rewards monthly. For example, the Upgrade Visa® Card with Bitcoin Rewards deposits the earned crypto rewards after the cardholder pays off their monthly balance. Once your crypto rewards are in your account, you are free to trade or HODL your crypto rewards.
Do Crypto Credit Cards Affect Credit Scores?
Everything else about crypto credit cards works like traditional credit cards, including credit card fees, interest rates, and payments. And probably the most significant factor is that crypto credit cards will affect your credit score the same way as traditional credit cards. Additionally, cryptocurrency is considered an asset. Therefore, if you have plans to trade and earn large amounts of it, then mind your taxes and consult with a tax professional.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, crypto credit cards provide flexible access to create a more diversified portfolio for the person interested in the world of cryptocurrency. There are a few crypto credit cards on the market, including crypto debit cards like the Coinbase Debit Card. Or maybe you’re interested in going the prepaid route with something like the Fold Visa® Prepaid Card. Wherever your crypto journey takes you, understand crypto credit cards are here to reward you on your everyday purchases with a little more than just regular old cash back.
College is a time for learning and growing: socially, culturally, educationally, and financially. The latter often takes place outside the classroom, where students living far from home learn to budget for textbooks, food, and nights out. Part fo the financial education of the college years comes from credit cards – which can have an impact for several years. Learning to use these tools is essential for getting the most out of your budget – and building your credit score. Here’s our comprehensive guide to building credit during college: Credit 101.
What Is a Good Credit Score for a Student?
Students tend to have a shorter credit history than other credit card users. Because of this inexperience, student credit scores usually fall within the “fair” credit score range. A fair credit score is a credit score between 630 and 689 on the FICO scoring model. This model ranges from 300 to 850, with higher scores being better than lower ones.
Here’s the FICO Score range:
Excellent Credit 720 – 850
Good Credit 690 – 719
Fair Credit 630 – 689
Bad Credit 300 – 629
Many students fall into the “fair” category, as their credit experience is limited or non-existent (no credit history). Typically, the only experience with credit most students have is through student loans, which are a form of installment loan. But since they probably have not made payments towards those loans, their payment history is limited, hence the “fair” score, and not “bad.”
Average Credit Score by Age
As students tend to be younger than other credit card users, they typically have lower credit scores. Statistically, those under the age of 34 have the lowest average credit scores, at around 629. Those over the age of 55 have the highest credit score on average, at about 696.
So, while the average student doesn’t have a “bad” credit score, their inexperience with credit makes them less attractive to lenders. And, while the above chart seems to indicate that students have better credit than those in the 25-to-44 age range, this is likely because those individuals have a more extensive credit portfolio. More credit means larger debt from things like mortgages, student loans, and other installment loan products.
What Factors Impact Your Credit Score?
Building a good credit score starts with educating yourself on what factors impact your FICO Score. FICO is the most popular credit scoring method and it allows lenders to gauge how much of a risk an applicant poses financially.
FICO Scoring Factor
% of Score
Payment history/ late payments
35%
Total amount owed on credit accounts
30%
Average length of credit history
15%
Types of credit accounts
10%
New credit applications (hard inquiries)
10%
FICO’s scoring model emphasizes an individual’s payment history. Payment history accounts for 35% of a person’s FICO score, as this is the biggest indicator of a person’s ability to repay any new credit they borrow. Nearly as important is the amount of available credit a person uses, which makes up 30% of the total score.
Once you understand what influences your credit score, you can start building your credit throughout your college years – and beyond.
① Check and review your credit reports
Ⓐ Check your credit reports from all three of the nationwide consumer reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Ⓑ Check for negative credit information, like potential fraud or ID theft, accounts in collection, or unpaid balances.
② Pay your bills on time
Ⓐ Automatic payments are a great way to avoid accidentally missing a payment.
Ⓑ Splitting monthly payments into two smaller payments can help stretch budgets while ensuring you pay on time.
③ Keep credit use low
Ⓐ Credit utilization accounts for roughly 30% of your credit score, so aim to keep credit use as low as possible.
Ⓑ Consider a balance transfer credit card if your credit use is creeping up and you want to consolidate that debt into one new account, typically at 0% Intro APR.
④ Limit new applications
Limit any new credit applications to only what is essential (i.e. if applying for a balance transfer credit card).
⑤ Keep old accounts open
Don’t close any old, unused accounts. Closing accounts can lower your average credit utilization.
Find the Right Credit Card
Most students will have a limited credit history comprising student loans only. Because of their limited payment history, many students won’t qualify for most traditional credit cards. Fortunately, there are two types of credit cards available to those with no credit history or very narrow credit history: student cards and secured cards.
Student Credit Cards
Student credit cards are a subset of traditional credit cards designed with college students in mind. Student cards have lower credit requirements, making them easier for students with limited credit to receive. These cards have smaller credit limits but sometimes offer incentives, such as good grade discounts or rewards.
Here’s what to look for in a student credit card:
① Rewards
While not common, there are plenty of good student rewards cards on the market. Many student credit cards feature lesser benefits in comparison to general rewards credit cards, but that’s not always the case.
② No annual fee
Generally speaking, signing up for a credit card without an annual fee makes financial sense. This rule doesn’t apply, though, if the benefits that you earn while using the credit card are higher than the cost you’re paying each year.
③ Academic incentives
This is a perk unique to credit cards for students. Some cards offer cardholders account statement credits if their grades meet a certain threshold, such as meeting GPA minimums each academic school year.
④ Debt forgiveness
When learning how to use credit cards and navigate debt, especially at a young age, it’s essential to look for a card that offers debt forgiveness. You’ll want a card with debt forgiveness to prevent your credit score from being negatively affected.
While student cards are more accessible than many traditional credit cards, not all students will qualify. Those students with no credit history might struggle to find a student card, which is where secured credit cards come in. Secured cards require a deposit that acts as security for the line of credit and as the credit limit itself. Because of this deposit, lenders are more willing to approve those with no credit history. Make your payments on time and keep your account in good standing, and you’ll get the deposit back when you close the account.
The security deposit with these cards opens a range of possibilities for students. Because the deposit acts as the credit limit, students can set their credit line as high – or low – as they choose. Additionally, some cards, like the First Progress Platinum Prestige Mastercard, feature interest rates below anything a student card can provide.
Here are some of the best secured credit cards to consider:
The First Progress Platinum Elite Mastercard Secured Credit Card is a solid card to have if you’ve set your sights on credit building. With no upfront credit check or history required, there’s no need to worry about hurting your score before you even get started. Instead, you can jump right in – after submitting your $200 security deposit, of course.
The OpenSky Secured Visa is a very enticing offer for those who want to boost their credit score quickly but are wary of the negative impact a hard inquiry might have. OpenSky gives everyone an opportunity to improve their credit with an 85% average approval rate for the past 5 years. Even better, you could be eligible for the OpenSky Gold Unsecured Card after as few as 6 months
The Self Credit Builder Account and associated Secured Visa® Credit Card are an excellent combination for quickly building a positive credit history. Because the two accounts work together seamlessly, meeting the minimum requirements and paying on-time doubles the impact on your credit score.
The Merrick Bank Double Your Line® Secured Credit Card is a useful tool for boosting your credit score thanks to its Double Your Line® feature. Pay a one-time $200 deposit (which acts as the credit line), make on-time payments for each of the first seven months, and you’ll automatically have their credit line raised to $400 – without the need for additional security deposits.
Become an Authorized User
Becoming an authorized user allows you to build your credit score through your loved ones. If they have a good credit score, ask to become an additional user on their account. This practice lets you build credit when they make their payments on time. Being an authorized user is an excellent way to boost credit in conjunction with your own credit card.
Summing It Up
The college years are the foundation for many aspects of life – and credit is one. Making the right credit moves in your school days can set you up for a lifetime of lower interest rates, impressive signup bonuses, and the financial know-how to navigate the treacherous waters of daily life.
The process of building credit during college starts with a quality starter credit card, such as a student credit card or a secured card. Using those cards responsibly – and paying your balance on time – can quickly build up your credit score and lead to better opportunities down the line. Irresponsible spending and poor payment history, however, can lead to significant problems for years to come.
Should you pay off your credit card debt with your 401(k)? The IRS recommends consulting with a financial advisor before taking the steps to withdraw from your retirement savings. If you have credit card debt that you wish to dissolve using your 401(k) savings, read this first.
Should You Use Your 401(k) to Pay Off Credit Card Debt?
It’s no secret that card debt for Americans is on the incline and nearing $1 trillion in the first quarter of 2023. It would be no surprise if you have wondered about your own card debt too, and how you will tackle it. If using your 401(k) has come to mind when answering this question, there are a few factors to consider before taking action with your retirement savings.
What is a 401(k)?
A 401(k) is an employer-sponsored savings plan. It lets you set aside pre-tax dollars from your paycheck to help fund your future retirement. If you have a Roth 401(k), the savings are after-tax dollars. Not all employers offer a 401(k) plan, however, and the ones that do may or may not match a percentage of your salary. According to a Vanguard 2021 report, most plans promise a match between 3.0% and 6.0% of pay. The average value of the promised match was 4.5% of pay, and the median value was 4.0%.
An employer matching any percentage of your salary essentially means free money that goes into a retirement investing account for your benefit. As you can see, a 401(k) plan has the potential to grow exponentially. As a result, you might catch yourself with a nice cushion of savings, which may be tempting enough to use as a means to pay off your credit card debt.
However, doing so will have the long-term effect of putting you at risk later in life when you’re older and perhaps not working as much, or not working at all. During your later years, beyond 62 years of age, you may need to rely on your savings, and retirement savings will make a difference for both everyday and occasional expenses.
The Short-Term Effects of Withdrawing 401(k) Early
Tapping into your retirement savings is only recommended as a last resort. This is not only because of the long-term effects it may have, but also because of the short-term effects. Early withdrawal from your 401(k) may result in penalty fees and taxes.
Borrowers 59½ years old and younger get dealt a 10% withdrawal penalty fee in addition to taxes, which can be anywhere from 20% to 25%, depending on your income and tax bracket. Due to recent stimulus packages, Americans have been able to withdraw from their 401(k) savings penalty-free, but taxes still apply.
According to a Fidelity Investment report, the average 401(k) balance dropped 22.9% in Q3 2022, compared to Q3 2021; 6% from Q2 2022; and a 28% increase from ten years ago. Therefore, withdrawing from a 401(k) does not benefit your future retirement. In addition, taking money out without penalty will also set back your retirement goals.
However, withdrawing without penalty makes more sense for survival reasons like housing or food and is not recommended for non-essentials like credit card debt or loans. It’s best to let the market recover before withdrawing and taking losses on your retirement savings.
Instead of Using Your 401(k) For Credit Card Debt, Do This
Reach out to the card issuer and inquire about available financial hardship plan
Participate in a debt management plan through a credit counselor
Apply for a debt consolidation loan
Use a balance transfer credit card
The options in the table above can help you tackle credit card debt without depleting or touching your retirement savings. Balance transfer credit cards might seem counterintuitive because it’s basically using a credit card to pay off credit card debt. The benefit of using a balance transfer credit card is that you can transfer your existing card debt to a card with a lower interest rate, which will save you money.
The benefits of a balance transfer credit card depend on responsible use and your credit score. Look for balance transfer cards with lengthy 0% introductory APR offers to avoid paying interest on your debt for some time. This tactic can help you catch up on payments and put more of your repayment money toward your debt versus using some to pay interest. Keep in mind you most likely need to qualify for a higher credit limit when choosing a balance transfer card and should also account for the balance transfer fees (usually between 2% to 5% or a set dollar minimum, whichever is greater.).
And remember, even while paying down credit card debt, you can still maintain your credit score by always making on-time payments. And even if you only have enough to make the minimum payment during financial hardship, you should continue making minimum payments to keep your credit score afloat. On-time payments count for determining 35% of your overall credit score.
Earn 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
Things To Know About a 401(k) Before Withdrawal
If you’re still considering using your 401(k) to pay down your credit card debt, there are some things you should know about the withdrawal process. There are two ways to take money out of a 401(k) retirement plan:
A hardship withdrawal
A 401(k) loan
Hardship Withdrawals
Not all 401(k) plans allow hardship withdrawals – this is up to the employer’s discretion. A 401(k) account allows hardship withdrawals for financial needs (as per IRS criteria.), however, credit card debt does not qualify for a hardship withdrawal. You might be eligible for a hardship withdrawal if you:
Have certain medical expenses.
Need to pay funeral or burial costs.
Purchase a home for the first time.
Have birth or adoption costs (up to $5,000)
Incur educational fees that qualify.
Must repair your home after a natural disaster
Need to cover payments necessary to prevent eviction or foreclosure on your primary residence.
401(k) Loan
Some 401(k) plans allow loan requests, as long as they abide by IRS guidelines. Through a 401(k) loan you essentially borrow money from yourself (your retirement plan) and then pay yourself back – with interest – within a 5-year repayment period. Usually, 401(k) loans only allow account holders to borrow up to 50% of the vested balance or $50,000, whichever is less. There is an exception, though: If 50% of the vested account balance is less than $10,000, the participant may borrow up to $10,000. However, plans are not required to include the exception.
Another 401(k) loan benefit is that it does not affect your credit, and the interest paid may be tax deductible if individual requirements are met. However, if you leave a job while having an outstanding balance, there will be consequences. Your repayment period may shorten to 60 days to avoid fees and penalties.
The Bottom Line
Although there are certain options for repaying debt through your 401(k), there are other, better alternatives if you need to pay down credit card debt. Ultimately you shouldn’t dip into this account unless it’s an emergency – otherwise, you won’t be doing yourself any favors in the long term.
July 14 might not mean much to many Americans, but for those of French descent, it’s a day to celebrate everything French. Bastille Day is the French national holiday celebrating the storming of the feared royal jail in 1789 – a key event in the French Revolution. The holiday, officially known as le fête nationale française, is celebrated in over 20 U.S. cities, but the best place to experience the magic is by taking a trip to the City of Lights – Paris itself. Here’s how you can do it with the help of Air France rewards.
How to Maximize Miles with the Air France Credit Card
Planning a trip to Paris is an exciting (and expensive) endeavor, but there are ways to help lessen the blow to your wallet. One such option is to earn frequent flyer miles to get you to France, and a great place to start is the Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard® from Bank of America. The premium airline credit card offers rewards that can potentially offset the cost of your flight, plus a huge bonus miles welcome offer and more.
BestCards refers to a variation of FICO Score 9, which is one of many different types of credit scores. A financial institution may use a different score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. Please note that the range shown here is our own estimation and not a guarantee of credit needed to be approved for any given card.
Recommended Credit:Excellent / Good
MastercardProcessing Network
$89Annual Fee
Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard®
20.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateRegular Purchase APR
20.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateBalance Transfer APR
23.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime RateCash Advance APR
At a
Glance
Designed for avid travelers, the Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard® rewards generously for flight purchases and offers versatility when it’s time to redeem your earnings.
Best Benefits
Rates & Fees
Why Should You Apply?
3X miles per $1 spent directly on purchases with Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and SkyTeam member carriers
1.5X miles per $1 on all other purchases
Earn 70,000 bonus miles and $100 statement credit after making $2,000 in purchases within 90 days
5,000 miles anniversary bonus after spending $50 in purchases within anniversary year
20 XP every account anniversary with additional 40 XP after spending $15,000 or more per year
No foreign transaction fee
Regular Purchase APR:
20.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Balance Transfer APR:
20.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Balance Transfer Transaction Fee:
$10 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Cash Advance APR:
23.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
Cash Advance Transaction Fee:
$10 or 3% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
Penalty APR:
Up to 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
Annual Fee:
$89
Late Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $40
Return Payment Penalty Fee:
Up to $29
You travel often, whether for business or pleasure
You're a member of the Flying Blue loyalty program
You want flexibility when redeeming your accumulated miles and the ability to choose from multiple airlines for flight awards
You're planning to use a credit card for purchases abroad or in foreign currencies
Here’s how to maximize your earning with the Air France credit card and get you booked on your next dream vacation:
Maximize Your Air France Rewards Miles with Flying Blue
The easiest way to earn an award ticket to France is using the Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard®. The airline card’s rewards aren’t game-changing, but they provide value for money for those who frequently fly with Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, or another SkyTeam member. Cardholders can earn the following rewards with the card:
3X miles per $1 spent directly on purchases with Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and SkyTeam member carriers
1.5X miles per $1 on all other purchases
The 3X category might sound restrictive, but an impressive number of global carriers qualify for that accelerated rate. Beyond KLM and Air France, cardholders can also earn 3X miles when booking with other SkyTeam Alliance members. SkyTeam comprises of more than two dozen carriers, including:
But the 3X miles apply to even more carriers than those 25. Cardholders also earn the maximum points with other Flying Blue partners, featuring the following:
Maximizing rewards is about making the miles work within your normal spending – not breaking the bank to meet the categories. The Air France/KLM credit card is also great for everyday purchases thanks to its unlimited 1.5X miles earned on all other eligible purchases. This means you can use the card for groceries, dining, streaming, commuting, and more.
Wait for the Right Welcome Offer
Welcome offers are a great way to quickly amass huge miles, points, or even cash back. These sign-up bonuses require any new accountholders to meet a minimum spending requirement (or another threshold) in return for a substantial bonus reward.
New Air France KLM Mastercard accounts can currently earn 70,000 bonus miles after making at least $2,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of opening that account. That welcome offer is generous, although occasionally, Bank of America will boost the sign-up bonus further to attract new applicants. And since a one-way ticket to JFK to Paris (for example) requires about 60,000 miles, you can reach those rewards faster than you might realize.
Consider Flying Blue’s Promo Awards
Flying Blue offers monthly promotional awards with discounted redemption rates for specific routes. Keep an eye on these promotions, called “Promo Rewards,” as they can significantly reduce the miles required for your flight to Paris. Promo Rewards change monthly, though they offer 20-50% in discounts off select awards for travel on Air France and KLM routes.
Summing It Up
So, is a completely free flight from the U.S. to Paris solely possible through earning Flying Blue miles? Yes, but it will require maximizing your spending in key categories and a lot of patience. Spending big to reach a welcome bonus might sound good, but opening yourself up to frivolous spending can seriously hurt your finances and lead to further trouble later.
Instead, carefully manage your spending to ensure you are within your budget, and watch for special fares through SkyTeam or Flying Blue. Careful planning, early booking, and taking advantage of partner airlines and promotions can help you make the most of the Air France/KLM credit card and bring your dream trip to Paris within reach.
U.S. Bank recently launched an all-in-one business credit card and travel platform. The new business credit card is aimed at businesses looking for a better way to manage business travel and company expenses. Here’s what you need to know about the launch.
U.S. Bank Introduces New Business Credit Card & Travel Platform
The new U.S. Bank Commercial Rewards Card is powered by TravelBank technology – a corporate expense and travel management platform. TravelBank offers a mobile solution via its app for people on the go and traveling for work. A desktop app is also available for anyone working from an office. In addition to its intuitive booking platform, the app provides an expense system and built-in rewards. As a result, businesses can easily access simple controls for managing business travel and more.
The integration of the TravelBank platform strives to benefit businesses by making travel expenses less time-consuming, more streamlined, and more rewarding. The U.S. Bank Commercial Rewards Card targets emerging middle-market companies with employees that frequently travel for work. Specifically, the card caters to businesses with $10 million to $150 million in annual revenue.
Commercial Rewards Card Features
The new U.S. Bank business credit card features not only a travel platform, but also makes promises to help corporations manage their expenses through automation. The included accounting platform integrates with popular accounting software like QuickBooks Online, Xero, NetSuite, and more. Thus, it provides an easy unification for businesses that use such services.
The expense and travel management offered by the U.S. Bank Commercial Rewards Card only scratches the surface of its benefits. It also features no annual fee and has rebate potential with a lower spend threshold than traditional commercial cards. Additionally, businesses can control employee travel and expense policies by customizing built-in guidelines for booking travel and more per business needs. It is not uncommon for commercial business cards to be liable at a corporate level, so in this case there is no worry about personal liability for business owners.
A Business Card for Companies With Traveling Employee
The U.S. Bank Commercial Rewards Card has many features that can help benefit business owners with frequently traveling employees, such as helping to manage employee expenses, travel bookings, and everyday costs.
However, there are plenty of other small business credit cards to consider for your company if it does not focus on employee travel. Consider these examples:
Use to shop at any retailer worldwide that accepts Visa cards
Receive $500 in cash back after spending $5,000 on your card in the first 3 months
Ideal for companies that struggle with expense reports, reimbursements, receipts, and expensive annual service contracts
Ideal for companies looking to expand their current business fleet, while taking advantage of special benefits for small businesses.
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase
Earn 3% cash back on every purchase
Earn up to 7X on dining purchases, up to 5X on hotels, up to 2X on recurring software subscriptions, and up to 1.5X on all other purchases
Earn 5% back on parts, services & accessories at authorized GM Dealers, 3% back at gas stations, restaurants & office supply stores, 1% back on all other purchases
Add virtual cards to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay
Approvals are based on revenue, not your credit score
Combines seamless expense management software with business cards so you never have to process another expense report
Unlimited rewards never expire; Redeem points for the lease or purchase of a GM vehicle
Block or restrict spending to a specific vendor – for either a specific card or your entire company
No monthly or annual fees while you use your card or Flex Line
No contract, no obligations
Get approved with no impact to your credit score
No fees – including foreign transaction, setup, or replacement fees
No fees or hard credit checks to apply
No interest rates, no annual fee
No annual fee, no foreign transaction fees or cash advance fees
If you think getting into college is stressful, finding the right student credit card can potentially add to that stress. But it doesn’t have to be that way if you know your way around. Before you apply for your first (or next) student credit card, check out this helpful guide to explain the entire process. Here’s how to choose the best student credit card for your needs.
At a Glance
Student credit cards differ from traditional cards – from easier approval odds to lower credit limits and student-centric perks like good grade discounts.
Focusing on the annual fee, APR, and account fees is a great way to prioritize your financial health, as these factors can save you significant money over time.
Look for a student credit card that grows with you by considering a student version of a popular rewards card. This allows you to graduate to a regular version and keep your rewards.
What’s the Difference Between a Regular Credit Card and a Student Credit Card?
A credit card is a payment tool that can help you purchase goods and services using a line of credit from a financial institution, such as your local bank. You can find a credit card application on your bank’s website or in your mailbox at home. Still, as of 2009, credit card issuers cannot market their products within 1,000 feet of a college campus.
The Credit Card Act of 2009 makes it illegal to coerce students to apply for credit cards using things like giveaways. Instead, a new type of credit card – the student credit card – was born. A student credit card differs from a traditional credit card in that it provides more straightforward application requirements, lower credit limits, and rewards that work well with students’ everyday needs.
Approval Odds
Students often have limited or no credit history, making getting approved for a credit card challenging. Look for student credit cards specifically designed for individuals with limited credit or who are just getting started building out their credit history. These cards usually have relaxed approval requirements and may offer features that cater to students.
Here’s what you’ll likely need before you apply for a student credit card:
Common Requirements for Student Credit Cards
Income
Student credit cards are specifically designed for young adults in college or high school and are a great way to start building credit. These cards often have lower credit limits and more relaxed requirements than other credit cards, making them easier to obtain. Despite that, applying for a student credit card without any credit history can be challenging. Before you reach age 21, it can be tough to meet minimum income eligibility requirements – even for student credit cards. That’s because you can only use your own personal income to qualify.
Enrollment
Another key eligibility requirement for student cards is the need to be actively enrolled in college. Pay attention to the issuer-specific rules of each bank, as they may differ considerably. Discover, for instance, requires applicants to be “enrolled in a two- or four-year college or university.” Fortunately, the eligibility requirements for enrollment are fairly broad – even for Discover – meaning many full-time students should have no concerns about this form of eligibility.
Nationality
Many credit card issuers have specific rules regarding nationality and credit card applications. That is, they tend to require applicants to be a United States citizen. But credit card residency requirements can be confusing – especially if you are a citizen of an American territory, like Puerto Rico or Guam. While many territorial citizens can apply for credit cards, some banks have rules to the contrary. Another possibility for non-citizens is to apply using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is an ID number that the IRS issues to anyone who needs to file income tax returns in the United States but doesn’t qualify for a Social Security Number (SSN).
Rewards
When evaluating student credit cards, consider their rewards and decide if they work for your spending habits. Student credit cards offer basic rewards, typically around 1% to 1.5% cash back, or 1X points/miles per dollar spent on purchases. That said, plenty of robust student rewards credit cards remain, including impressive options from Bank of America, Capital One, and Discover.
Pay close attention to the earning rate of rewards, caps on bonus points, and expiration of those rewards. Look for a student credit card that offers rewards in proprietary rewards programs, like Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, or other transferrable currencies.
Rates & Fees
Interest charges and annual fees aren’t the most attractive features of a student credit card – but that doesn’t mean you should ignore them. To keep costs in check, opt for a student credit card with no annual fee or a low annual fee that won’t burden your budget. Additionally, look for a credit card with a competitive APR, as this can save you money if you need to carry a balance. While responsible credit card usage involves paying balances in full each month, having a card with a low ongoing interest rate can be beneficial in emergencies or unexpected circumstances.
You should also examine the card’s fees to understand if there are charges for the following transactions:
Also, see if the card offers a grace period on late payments. A generous grace period allows you to make purchases without incurring interest charges if you pay your statement balance in full by the due date.
Credit Limit
Consider the credit limit offered by the credit card company. Most student credit cards have a modest spending limit, typically less than $1,500 (usually around $500). While it should be sufficient to meet your needs, remember that having a higher credit limit doesn’t mean you should max it out. Responsible credit usage is key to building good credit.
Summing It Up
Finding the right student credit card for you doesn’t have to be the equivalent of a year-end essay. By focusing on the key factors, such as academic incentives, rewards, fees, and approval odds, you can determine which credit cards offer you the right mix of benefits and which miss the mark. As a refresher, here’s what you should look for when shopping around for a new card:
① Rewards
While not common, there are plenty of good student rewards cards on the market. Many student credit cards feature lesser benefits in comparison to general rewards credit cards, but that’s not always the case.
② No annual fee
Generally speaking, signing up for a credit card without an annual fee makes financial sense. This rule doesn’t apply, though, if the benefits that you earn while using the credit card are higher than the cost you’re paying each year.
③ Academic incentives
This is a perk unique to credit cards for students. Some cards offer cardholders account statement credits if their grades meet a certain threshold, such as meeting GPA minimums each academic school year.
④ Debt forgiveness
When learning how to use credit cards and navigate debt, especially at a young age, it’s essential to look for a card that offers debt forgiveness. You’ll want a card with debt forgiveness to prevent your credit score from being negatively affected.
Southwest Airlines has announced a massive new welcome offer on the popular Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card. Here’s how to earn up to 120,000+ Rapid Rewards® points for a limited time only.
120,000-Point Welcome Offer for Southwest Rapid Rewards™ Premier Business Card
Chase and Southwest Airlines have a new, limited-time welcome offer on the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card. From July 11 and running until August 28, new Rapid Rewards Premier Business accounts can take advantage of an elevated welcome offer of 120,000 Rapid Rewards® points after meeting minimum spending requirements.
The 120,000-point bonus breaks down as follows:
Earn 60,000 points after spending $3,000 on qualifying purchases in the first three months from account opening, and
Earn an additional 60,000 points after spending $15,000 in the first nine months.
That generous welcome offer has an estimated value of around $1,800 when redeemed towards award flights with Southwest – an exceptional value for a fairly reasonable spend for a small-to-medium-sized company that plans to issue multiple complimentary employee cards.
Regardless of the welcome offer, all Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business cardmembers enjoy an impressive range of Southwest-centric card benefits. Cardmembers receive two EarlyBird Check-ins® per year; the first two checked bags fly for free on Southwest flights (weight and size limits apply); and they can earn impressive rewards with every eligible purchase:
Cardmembers earn 3X points per dollar on Southwest Airlines® purchases,
2X points per dollar on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases,
2X points per dollar on social media, search engine marketing, local transit and commuting, including rideshare services, and
1X points per dollar on all other eligible purchases.
Earn 3X points on Southwest purchases; 2X on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental bookings, local transit and commuting including rideshare, plus social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services; and 1X on all other purchases
Earn 4X points on Southwest purchases; 3X on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rentals; 2X on local transit and commuting, including rideshare, plus social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services; and 1X on all other purchases
Best perk
2 EarlyBird Check-Ins per year
Global Entry or TSA Pre✓® application fee credit
Annual fee
$99
$199
Even More Rewards through Rapid™ Rewards Card Benefits Game
Additionally, all Rapid Rewards cardmembers can earn even more points with the Southwest Rapid™ Rewards Card Benefits Game. Cardmembers can visit rapidrewardscardperks.com each day to learn more about Chase’s Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards and compete to win 25,000 Rapid Rewards bonus points.
The Benefits Game is open to all legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia (excluding Alaska and Rhode Island) who are 18 or older and have a valid email and Rapid Rewards account at the time of entry. You can view the full set of rules here.
