Merrick Bank Platinum vs. Oportun Card: Read This Before Applying

by Cory Santos
merrick-bank-platinum-vs-oportun-card-read-this-before-applying

Last updated on September 21st, 2023

Choosing a credit card for near-prime credit can be challenging. There are hundreds of card offers available, but not every card is right for every consumer. The Merrick Bank Double Your Line® Mastercard® and Oportun® Visa® Credit Card are two popular credit builder options, thanks to their ease of access, generous credit limits, and ability to help you raise your credit score with financially reasonable usage. 

Before you apply for your next credit card, check out this helpful guide that breaks down both cards, their strengths, weaknesses, and the finer points that can help you make an informed decision.

Average Credit Limits

Near-prime credit cards typically offer lower credit limits than credit cards for those with excellent credit scores (such as those from Citi or Chase). While anyone can be at any stage of their credit journey, studies show that younger generations tend to have lower credit scores and, thus, lower overall credit limits. 

Here is a breakdown of the average credit limit of Americans in each age group, according to Experian. Keep in mind that total credit limits mean all available revolving credit, including personal loans and open credit cards:

Age Group Avg. Credit Score Avg. Total credit
Generation Z (18-22) 667 $8,062
Millennials (23-38) 668 $20,647
Generation X (39-54) 688 $33,357
Baby Boomers (55-74) 731 $39,919
Silent Generation (75+) 756 $32,338

While near-prime credit cards often feature lower credit limits, that doesn’t apply to all credit cards in this credit range. Two popular options that provide credit limits of up to $1,000+ are the Oportun Visa and the Merrick Bank Double Your Line Platinum Mastercard. 

Merrick Bank Double Your Line Mastercard or Oportun Visa Card: Which Is Right for You?

Both the Oportun Visa Credit Card and the Merrick Bank Double Your Line Mastercard enjoy popularity among credit-building Americans – but which is best? Here is the breakdown of the cards over key credit categories:

Pre-Qualification Before Applying

Applying for a credit card requires a credit check. Often, these credit checks (or credit inquiries) are known as “hard inquiries,” meaning the bank pulls your full credit report before approving (or denying) your credit card application. If you apply for a credit card and are declined, your credit score will likely take a small hit.

One way to avoid a negative impact on your credit score before getting a new credit card is by pre-qualifying before you apply. Though they may sound similar, pre-qualification and pre-approval are not the same things.  

A pre-approval means that a lender has analyzed your credit profile based on existing credit information it holds, offering a product you will likely be approved for. On the other hand, pre-qualification means the lender has reviewed financial information from a credit profile and believes you may be a good fit for the credit card product. Pre-qualifications are also known as “soft inquiries,” as they have no impact on your credit score.

Does the Merrick Bank Double Your Line Mastercard Let You Pre-Qualify Before You Apply?

Yes, the Merrick Bank Mastercard offers a quick pre-qualification for potential applicants. This feature makes the card a quality offer for anyone looking to boost their credit score but afraid they may not qualify due to late payments, bankruptcies, or other adverse financial events.

The Oportun Visa Card does not offer a pre-qualification process but does provide pre-screened offers for some consumers. Oportun provides offer codes which invite consumers in the card’s credit profile to apply.  

How to Apply

Here is all the information you’ll need to apply for both credit cards:

What Information Do You Need to Apply for the Merrick Bank Mastercard?

  • Name
  • Address
  • Email address
  • Phone number
  • Date of birth
  • Social Security Number (SSN)
  • Monthly income
  • Monthly expenses

What Information Do You Need to Apply for the Oportun Card?

  • Name
  • Date of birth
  • Address
  • Identification (either SSN or ITN)
  • Phone number (including length of line ownership and phone type)
  • Email address

Credit Score Needed

Because both cards are designed for those building or repairing credit, the typical FICO credit score for an applicant for the Merrick Bank Mastercard and Oportun Credit Card is around 600 to 640. Both credit cards are available for applicants with credit scores ranging from 300 to 850.

Annual Fees

Annuals fees with both cards vary depending on credit score and the card offer provided. Here are the current variable annual fees:

  • Merrick Bank Double Your Line Mastercard: $0 to $72
  • Oportun Visa Credit Card: $0 to $49

Starting Credit Limits

The starting credit limit with the Merrick Bank Mastercard is very generous, ranging as high as $1,000+ to begin, depending on creditworthiness. While Merrick does not officially disclose their credit limits on its unsecured credit card, the range varies from around $550 to $1,350. The Oportun Card provides an initial credit limit of up to $1,000.

Credit Limit Increases

The major selling point with the Merrick Bank Double Your Line Mastercard is the ability to double your line in the first seven months. During the first seven months from account opening, all cardholders need to use their card and make at least the minimum payment on time every month. After that, cardholders receive a double credit line increase – automatically.

Many unsecured credit cards for this credit profile advertise credit limit increases after the first six months or year.  However, these increases are usually minimal and might come with an increased annual fee.

Merrick’s Double Your Line feature is automatic – and easy to reach. Simply make all your monthly payments on time to qualify. These credit limit increases are impressive as well, often multiple times what an applicant might find elsewhere.

Oportun does provide credit limit increases on the Oportun Card, but these are not automatic. Oportun does monitor cardholders’ credit profiles and account history and may provide a credit increase in as little as a few months.

Rewards

Neither the Merrick Bank Mastercard nor the Oportun Card offer rewards. Oportun plans to introduce the Oportun Cash Back Card in the future, however.

Recap

Here is a quick recap of all the features of both cards:

merrick bank double your line mastercard 1200x630

Merrick Bank Double Your Line Mastercard

Credit lines range from $550-$1,350 which double to $1,100-$2,700 after your account qualifies. 

Double your credit line by making at least your minimum payment on time each month for the first 7 months your account is open

Online pre-qualification

Annual fee of $0 to $72

Read Review
Oportun® Visa® Credit Card

Oportun Visa Credit Card

Credit lines of up to $1,000

Annual fee of $0 to $49

No foreign transaction fees

Online prescreening available

Read Review

Other Information

Here are some more commonly asked questions about both the Merrick Bank and Oportun credit crads to help you make an informed decision:

FAQs About Merrick Bank Double Your Line and Oportun Card

  • Merrick Bank uses the Experian credit score when evaluating a credit card application. 
  • Yes. Merrick reports regularly to all three credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
  • Yes. Merrick Bank credit, debit, and banking products are available in all 50 U.S. states plus the District of Columbia (DC).
  • If you received a prequalified offer letter in the mail but can’t find your offer code, call Oportun customer service at 855-613-0070. The customer service rep can find your offer code with your name and last 4 digits of your SSN.
  • No – Oportun does not offer authorized users at this time.
  • Yes. Oportun cardholders can make payments in cash at MoneyGram locations.

Related Article: What Are the Easiest Credit Cards for Bad Credit to Get?

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Chase Unveils Month of More Promotion

by Cory Santos
Chase Unveils Month of More Promotion

Last updated on April 7th, 2023

Chase’s Month of More is back. From May 1 to May 31, 2022,  Chase Freedom cardmembers can enjoy even greater redemption value in Chase Ultimate Rewards – just in time for summer and celebrations such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and graduations.  

Chase Month of More Promotion Details  

Chase’s Month of More promotion provides additional value for eligible Chase Freedom family card members.  Now, Chase is bringing back the popular promotion for May 2022. The return of Chase’s Month of More means Chase Freedom cardmembers can earn and redeem more cash back with limited-time deals, including:

  • Gift Card Redemptions: 10% off when redeeming for select gift cards  
  • Shop Through Chase®: 5% bonus cash back or more when you shop online at eligible leading stores
  • Chase Dining Offer: Earn a total of 10% cash back when ordering takeout or make a prepaid reservation with Chase DiningSM through Ultimate Rewards (valid through 6/30/22)

Eligible Chase Freedom Cards

The following Chase Freedom cards are eligible for the Month of More promotion:

The Chase Freedom lineup of credit cards is very similar to other banks’ proprietary credit card lineup. For example, the Freedom cards closely mirror some of Citi’s proprietary credit cards, including the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card and the Citi® Double Cash Card. 

The Custom Cash offers up to 5% back on eligible purchases (somewhat like the Flex), while the Double Cash offers 2% cash back on all purchases – a slightly higher base earning rate versus the Freedom Unlimited. 

Chase Apple Ultimate Rewards Promotion

Chase is also bringing back its popular Apple promotion so cardmembers can earn more when they use their Chase Freedom card. Chase Freedom cardholders enjoy 10% extra value when redeeming through the Apple® Ultimate Rewards® store.

Chase Freedom cardmembers aren’t the only ones celebrating Chase’s Month of More Apple promotion. The following JP Morgan Chase credit cards also enjoy additional savings with Apple via Chase Ultimate Rewards:

  • Ink Business Cash, Ink Cash, and Ink Business Unlimited:
    • Starting May 1 – May 31, 2022: Points are worth 10% more when redeemed for Apple products through Ultimate Rewards
  • Ink Business Preferred and Ink Plus
    • Starting May 1 – May 31, 2022: Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for Apple products through Ultimate Rewards
  • Sapphire Preferred
    • Starting May 1 – May 31, 2022: Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for Apple products through Ultimate Rewards
  • Sapphire Reserve
    • Starting May 1 – May 31, 2022: Points are worth 50% more when redeemed for Apple products through Ultimate Rewards
  • JPMorgan Reserve
    • Starting May 1 – May 31, 2022: Points are worth 50% more when redeemed for Apple products through Ultimate Rewards

 

Related Article: The Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards

The information related to the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card and Citi® Double Cash Card has been collected by BestCards.com and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer or provider of this product or service. has been collected by BestCards.com and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer or provider of this product or service.

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Chase Adds New Benefit to United Club Infinite Credit Card

by Cory Santos
chase-adds-new-benefit-to-united-club-infinite-card

Last updated on April 7th, 2023

Anyone considering applying for the premium United Club℠ Infinite Card, be warned: the card’s impressive 120,000 bonus miles welcome offer ends on May 4. The last call on the substantial sign-up bonus is just one bit of news for Chase United cardmembers, as they also now earn a 25%  back statement credit when using their card for eligible inflight food or drink purchases.

Earn a 25% Back Statement Credit for Select In-Flight Purchases

Chase and United Airlines have announced a change to the full suite of United MileagePlus credit cards: 25% back as a statement credit on premium drink purchases made in United Clubs with their United Card. Statement credits for premium in-flight food and beverage purchases are standard with many airline credit cards. Still, they provide a little extra value for current (and new) United Cardmembers.

Last Call on Huge Welcome Bonuses

The new addition to MileagePlus credit cards from Chase also comes with a warning that current Chase United Card welcome bonuses end on May 4, 2022. For instance, new United Club Infinite cardmembers who apply for the card by tomorrow can earn 120,000 United MileagePlus® Miles after spending $6,000 on qualifying purchases within the first three months of opening an account.

The United Club Infinite is just one of Chase’s full suite of MileagePlus credit cards. Excluding the Club Infinite, the range includes three personal consumer credit cards and two small business credit cards. Here is the complete line-up of United MileagePlus credit cards from JP Morgan Chase:

And here are the current welcome offers for the United credit cards (information accurate as of 05/03/22):

  • United Quest Card: 70,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open
  • United Explorer Card: 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open. Plus, earn an additional 10,000 bonus miles after spending $6,000 total on purchases in the first six months your account is open (see terms).
  • United Gateway Card: 20,000 bonus miles after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.
  • United Club Infinite Card: 120,000 bonus miles after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.
  • United Business Card: 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open
  • United Club Business Card: 100,000 bonus miles after you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.

Related Article: What are Your Credit Card Points Worth?

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Destiny Mastercard Vs Revvi Card: Read This Before Applying

by Cory Santos
destiny-mastercard-vs-revvi-card-read-this-before-applying

Last updated on March 8th, 2023

Choosing a credit card when you have bad credit or are new to building credit can be challenging. There are dozens of subprime credit cards on the market – and that’s before you even begin to factor in secured credit cards.

The Destiny Mastercard and Revvi Card are two popular credit builder options. Before you apply for your next credit card, check out this helpful guide that breaks down both cards, their strengths, weaknesses, and the finer points that can help you make an informed decision.

Destiny Mastercard or Revvi Card: Which Is Right for You?

Both Destiny Mastercard and Revvi Card enjoy popularity among credit-building Americans – but which is best? Here is the breakdown of the cards over key credit categories:

Pre-Qualification Before Applying

Applying for a credit card requires a credit check. Often, these credit checks (or credit inquiries) are known as “hard inquiries,” meaning the bank pulls your full credit report before approving (or denying) your credit card application. If you apply for a credit card and are declined, your credit score will likely take a small hit.

One way to avoid a negative impact on your credit score before getting a new credit card is by pre-qualifying before you apply. Though they may sound similar, pre-qualification and pre-approval are not the same things.  

A pre-approval means that a lender has analyzed your credit profile based on existing credit information it holds, offering a product you will likely be approved for. On the other hand, pre-qualification means the lender has reviewed financial information from a credit profile and believes you may be a good fit for the credit card product. Pre-qualifications are also known as “soft inquiries,” as they have no impact on your credit score.

Does the Destiny Mastercard Let You Pre-Qualify Before You Apply?

Yes, Destiny Mastercard offers a quick pre-qualification for potential applicants. This feature makes the card a quality offer for anyone looking to boost their credit score but afraid they may not qualify due to late payments, bankruptcies, or other adverse financial events.

The Revvi Card does not offer a pre-qualification process. Because Revvi requires an active checking account to apply. This acts as a pre-qualification of sorts since it shows the applicant’s direct deposits and debits.

How to Apply

Here is all the information you’ll need to apply for both credit cards:

What Information Do You Need to Apply for the Destiny Mastercard?

  • Name
  • Address
  • Email address
  • Phone number
  • Date of birth
  • Social Security Number
  • Monthly income
  • Monthly expenses

What Information Do You Need to Apply for the Revvi Card?

  • Name
  • Email address
  • Address
  • Phone number

The Revvi application process also asks if you have an active checking account. The checking account requirement helps demonstrate to Revvi that you have the required funds to meet any debt obligations with a new, unsecured credit line. Essentially, this action operates the same way as Destiny’s income/expenses requirement.

Credit Score Needed

Because both cards are designed for those building or repairing credit, the typical FICO credit score for an applicant for the Revvi and Destiny Cards is around 600 to 640. Both credit cards are available for applicants with credit scores ranging from 300 to 850.

Annual Fees

Both Revvi and Destiny charge an annual fee. With Destiny Card, the annual fee is $125 for the first year and $49 per year after that. Because Destiny charges the annual fee upon card activation, the cardholder’s initial credit limit will reflect this annual fee. This means the starting credit limit for the Destiny Card is $375, returning to $500 once you pay the annual fee.

Though it waives this charge for the first year, Destiny also charges a monthly service fee. After year one, cardholders will receive a $10.40 monthly charge ($124.80 annually).

The Revvi Card features a $75 annual fee for the first year and an annual fee of $48 after that. After the first year, cardholders can expect a $6.25 monthly charge (b$75 annually). Like Destiny, Revvi also features a monthly maintenance fee, which Revvi also waives for the first year.

Revvi Card also charges a one-time program fee – something Destiny does not charge. The former program fee from Revvi is $89.

Starting Credit Limits

The Destiny Mastercard has a $500 credit limit. This credit limit is on the higher end for similarly positioned credit cards for bad credit. The Revvi Card comes with an initial credit limit of $300 – on par with many other bad credit options.

Credit Limit Increases

The Revvi Card outperforms Destiny Mastercard when it comes to credit limit increases. While Revvi’s $300 initial credit line isn’t exceptional, the lender does review cardholder accounts as early as 12 months after opening. Suppose your credit score has improved and Revvi sees an opportunity. In that case, you may receive a credit limit increase (subject to an additional credit increase fee of 20% of any increase. Destiny, on the other hand, does not provide credit limit increases.

Rewards

The Destiny Mastercard does not offer any rewards. The Revvi Card does provide cash back rewards, however.

Revvi cardholders earn 1% Cash Back Rewards^^ on purchases when paying the card’s minimum balance due every month. That 1% cash back is on par with some other card offers from competitors – namely the Surge Platinum Secured Mastercard.

Cash back rewards with Revvi Card apply as statement credits. These credits help the cardholder pay down balances and lower credit utilization. Keeping overall credit use below 30% is essential for building a positive credit history and raising your credit score.

Recap

Here is a quick recap of all the features of both cards:

destiny-new

Destiny Mastercard

  • Build your access to credit – $500 credit limit
  • Get the flexibility of an unsecured Mastercard, even with less than perfect credit
  • Easy pre-qualification process which does not affect your credit score
  • Your financial future is important. Keeping your Destiny account in good standing may help establish and/or improve your credit history with reporting to the three major credit bureaus
  • No security deposit required
  • 24/7 access to your account information, even on mobile
  • Worry-free fraud protection if your card is lost or stolen
Read Review
revvi 224x141 new

Revvi Card

  • Earn 1% cash back rewards^^ on payments made to your Revvi Credit Card
  • Fast and easy application; response provided in seconds
  • $300 credit limit (subject to available credit)
  • Build your credit score with on-time payments and keeping your balance below the credit limit
  • Opportunity to request credit limit increase after twelve months, fee applies
  • Checking account required
  • Reports monthly to all three major credit bureaus
  • Perfect credit not required
  • Easy-to-use mobile app for management on the go!
Read Review

Things to Consider Before Applying for a Card for Bad Credit

Before deciding on any credit card, take the time to think about all aspects of the cards under consideration. Weigh the rates and fees against each other to see if your spending patterns match the card’s profile.

Here are a few issues to consider before choosing a credit repair credit card:

What About the APR?

One of the key metrics many credit card applicants consider before applying is the card’s APR – or interest rate on purchases. However, for cards like the Destiny and Revvi cards, interest rates are secondary to annual fees, credit reporting to the major bureaus, and credit limit increases.

Instead of focusing on the card’s APR, focus on keeping your credit use low and repaying your full balance before the statement period ends. These steps will have a much greater impact on your credit health and negate the high APR.

Annual Fee Vs. Security Deposit

In many cases, secured credit cards feature lower annual fees than unsecured credit cards for bad credit. This lower annual fee is due to the requirement of a security deposit (usually around $200) that acts as collateral for the credit loan – and the credit limit.

Because of this deposit requirement, secured cards may be more cost-prohibitive for new applicants than cards like Destiny, Revvi, Surge, or countless others. Before deciding on the right credit repair card for you, consider the upfront costs associated with each option. In some cases, an unsecured card might offer greater flexibility that can help offset emergencies.

^^See Revvi Rewards Program Terms & Conditions for details.

Related Article: Milestone Vs. Indigo Card: Read This Before Applying

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Apple Card Adds Ace Hardware to 3% Back Categories

by Cory Santos
apple-card-adds-ace-hardware-to-3-back-categories

Last updated on October 3rd, 2023

Apple and Goldman Sachs have made a small -but-rewarding change to the Apple Card. Ace Hardware has been added as a 3% cash back category with the popular rewards credit card, providing savings at home improvement stores as the weather warms and summer projects can begin.

Apple Card Adds Ace Hardware As a 3% Back Brand

The Apple Card is a versatile cash back rewards card from Goldman Sachs and tech juggernaut Apple. Setting out to be a “different type of credit card,” the Apple Card eliminates hidden fees and offers streamlined rewards that work with Apple, Apple Pay, and its associated products.

The Apple Card provides unlimited 2% cash back on Apple Pay purchases, placing its unlimited rate on par with the Citi® Double Cash Card. However, unlike Double Cash, Apple Card also offers 3% cash back on select brands.

The 3% cash back category with the Apple Card just got busier, thanks to the addition of Ace Hardware as a bonus brand. Ace Hardware joins the following brands, which also earn 3% back on purchases with the Apple Card:

  • Apple stores (including Apple.com), Apple subscription services, iTunes, the App Store, and in-app purchases
  • Panera Bread
  • T-Mobile
  • Nike
  • Exon Mobile
  • Walgreens

Apple Card Previously Added Integration with Intuit Mint

The addition of Ace Hardware as a cash back brand is just the latest addition to the Apple Card. Earlier this year, the card re-introduced integration with the Mint budgeting app.

Mint is a financial service that brings together various financial information, including account balances, spending, budgets, and even users’ credit scores. Owned by Intuit – the maker of TurboTax, QuickBooks, and Credit Karma – Mint provides a clear picture of the user’s financial health. It shows spending habits, investments, free credit scores, and more.

Related Article: Citi Double Cash Vs. Other Unlimited Cash Back Cards

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How to Get a Super-Prime Credit Score

by Cory Santos
how-to-get-a-super-prime-credit-score

Last updated on August 28th, 2023

Super-prime credit is the crème de la crème in the credit world. Not many people may be familiar with the term, but having super-prime credit can get you the best credit cards, the lowest interest rates, and the most lucrative rewards. What is the super-prime credit score range, however, and how do those with the highest credit scores use their cards differently?

What Is a Super-Prime Credit Score?

Super-prime credit might not be a phrase you commonly hear, but for lenders, mentions of the term bring smiles to their faces. A super-prime credit score is a term for a person with the very best credit score. Where a prime credit score refers to any FICO Score between 660 and 719 (fair to good), a super-prime score is any FICO Score above 720.

Reaching super-prime credit is no easy feat. In fact, more consumers are moving away from super-prime credit than in previous years, according to data from the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau (CFPB).

According to CFPB data, a shift in consumer credit is resulting in rising near-prime and prime credit scores is coinciding with a stagnation – and slight drop – in super-prime credit. While these figures are pre-COVID, they highlight the general trends in consumer borrowing. Here’s the data:

Prime (credit scores 660 – 719) Yearly Growth

Super-Prime (credit scores 720+) Yearly Growth

What Are the Habits of Consumers with Super-Prime Credit?

Because of the very high credit scores needed to break into the “super-prime” category, individuals with the very best credit scores have different credit habits than other consumers.

Lower Credit Utilization

One of the most important things that separates those with super-prime credit from those with prime credit scores is their credit use. According to the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau, only 30% of people with super-prime credit carry a balance from month-to-month. In comparison, 70% of people with prime credit carry a balance month-to-month.

Overall credit usage accounts for about 30% of a person’s FICO Score, making it the second-largest factor in calculating that number. What seemingly sets those with excellent credit apart from those with good credit, therefore, is how much they rely on their credit lines to make purchases.

Lower Balances

The above statement gains further proof when the average credit card balances per group are examined. Prime credit users have an average of $7,000 in credit card debt, while super-prime credit users average roughly $5,000.

At the same time, those with super-prime credit tend to have higher credit limits. According to Experian, those with fair-to-good credit have total credit limits of approximately $25,000. In comparison, those with excellent credit have an average total credit limit of roughly $35,000.

Longer Credit History

People with super-prime credit scores tend to have a longer credit history than those with good, fair, or even bad credit. This fact is fairly easy to understand, as having a long history with credit cards is one of the best ways to show banks that you are a trustworthy borrower. Credit history covers how long your accounts have been open, the average age of your credit accounts, and the types of credit accounts you hold.

How to Get Super-Prime Credit

Getting super-prime credit is difficult – but not impossible. The higher your credit score climbs, the tougher it becomes to repair if any damage occurs. While it may seem difficult to improve your credit score from bad credit yo good credit to excellent credit, patience and determination are the two most important virtues required.

Getting your credit score to “super-prime” requires paying all your bills on time each month. Where possible, pay them in full. As stated, people with excellent credit are less likely to carry a balance from month to month. They are also less likely to carry a significant credit balance overall.

Those with a good credit score are unlikely to miss payments – otherwise, their score wouldn’t be “good.” Therefore, it is the credit use (which makes up 30% of their credit score) that is the difference between “prime” and “super-prime.” Keep your credit usage below 30%, or for better results, keep credit use below 10%.

What are the Benefits of Super-Prime Credit Scores?

Super-prime credit has plenty of advantages. These range from greater access to new credit to preferable rates on new lines of credit and loans. Some of the highlights people with excellent credit scores can expect include:

Lowest Interest Rates

According to statistics by Experian (one of the three major credit bureaus), a credit score over 720 can help get applicants an APR over 1% lower than those with a good credit score. Even more impressive, super-prime borrowers get an average interest rate of over 8% lower than deep subprime or subprime credit score borrowers.

Highest Welcome Bonuses

While prime borrowers can access signup bonuses, like 0% intro APRs and more, the best perks go to the best credit scores. Why? Because of the following third benefit.

Access to the Very Best Credit Cards

Not all credit cards are available to all consumers. The very best credit cards (featuring the very best bonuses and perks) belong to those with the best credit scores. Some cards are even more exclusive. The Luxury Card range (which includes the Mastercard Black Card, Mastercard Titanium Card, and Mastercard Gold Card), for example, requires an excellent credit score and a high income.

What all these cards (credit cards and charge cards) have in common is that they offer the best benefits, including:

  • Airport lounge access
  • Travel and other statement credits, including dining
  • Elite membership status in airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Huge signup bonuses
  • And more

What Are the Best Credit Cards for Super-Prime Credit Scores?

Let’s say you have exceptional credit – what is the best credit card for you? Or, perhaps you are creating a game plan to reach super-prime credit and want to know what prizes await you at the end of your journey.

Here is a small selection of some of the best credit card offers for consumers with excellent credit scores:

Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer

The Citi® Double Cash Card is another of Citi’s most popular credit cards. The card differs from the Custom Cash in that it provides unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases, with no confusing bonus categories to remember.

Cardholders earn 2% back on every eligible purchase: 1% back at the time of sale and an additional 1% back when they pay their statement balance. Cash back is redeemable for statement credits, direct deposits, checks, or converted as ThankYou® points. The card also comes with 0% intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers completed within the first four months of opening an account.

That intro APR period and the addition of ThankYou Rewards provides the ideal platform for maximizing cash back (or rewards points) while paying down a significant balance with zero interest for a year and a half. Add no annual fee and Citi’s impressive cardmember perks and you have a winner of rewards credit card for prime, and super-prime applicants.

American Express Gold Card

The Gold Card from American Express differs from the Platinum Card in that it provides value for everyday life – and not just travel like the Platinum Card. The card earns 4X Membership Rewards on global dining (including takeout and delivery), plus purchases at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 in spending every year).

Those stats make the card a versatile dining and grocery credit card – made even better thanks to Amex’s statement credits. Gold Cardholders enjoy a $10 statement credit each month ( $120 dining credit each year) when paying with the Gold Card at Grubhub, Seamless, Boxed, and other participating partners. Enrollment is required to take advantage of this offer.

Beyond the statement credits and impressive Membership Rewards points on select purchases, Amex cardmembers can opt for one of two card designs. For the classic look, uses can select the famous gold card design. Those looking for something different can choose the previously limited-edition rose gold design, as pictured above.

Citi Custom Cash℠ Card

The Citi Custom Cash℠ Card is Citibank’s latest premier back credit card. The card earns 5% back on your highest spending category each billing period, making it a direct competitor to the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards, Wells Fargo Active Cash, or the Chase Freedom Flex (see below).

The 5% back categories with the Custom Cash include the following and is limited to the first $500 spent every billing period: dining, drugstores, fitness clubs, gas stations, grocery stores, home improvement stores, live entertainment, select travel, select streaming services, and select transit.

Equally impressive with the Custom Cash Card is the lengthy 0% intro APR period the card provide. Applicants with super-prime credit can anticipate 15 months of no interest on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months.

Add to that a $200 welcome offer after spending $750 on purchases in the first 3 months, access to World Elite Mastercard perks, Citi Entertainment, and it is easy to see why the Custom Cash is so popular with cardmembers.

Chase Freedom Flex

The Chase Freedom family of credit cards has long been one of the most popular options for cash back rewards – regardless of the credit profile. The family includes a range of excellent cash back cards, topped off by the ever-impressive Chase Freedom Flex.

The Freedom Flex World Elite Mastercard earns 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter after activation, 5% back on travel booked through Ultimate Rewards, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 5% cash back on eligible gas station purchases on up to $6,000 spent in the first year. The card’s rotating categories are always popular, allowing Flex cardmembers  to maximize rewards.

The Flex also features a lengthy 0% APR period to match its impressive rewards. New accounts enjoy 15 months of no interest on both purchases and balance transfers.

Related Article: New Citi Merchant Offers for Credit Cards

Bread Launches New Cashback American Express Card

by Cory Santos
bread-launches-new-cashback-american-express-card

Last updated on May 2nd, 2022

Bread Financial has launched a new credit card. The Bread Cashback American Express Credit Card offers cardholders unlimited 2% cash back with no annual fees, no reward caps, no foreign transaction fees, and no categories to manage. Here is everything you need to know about Bread Financials’ new cash back credit card:

This post may contain links from partner offers, and we may receive compensation when you click on links to these offers. Please see our advertiser and editorial disclosures above for more information. Citi is an advertising partner.

Bread Financial Launches New Cash Back Credit Card

Bread Financial has launched its first credit card since rebranding fr4om Alliance Data Systems. The new Bread Cashback™ American Express® Credit Card provides unlimited 2% cash back on all eligible purchases. The card also features no annual fees and no foreign transaction fees. In addition to 2% cash back, the Bread Cashback Amex Card also includes member access to Amex merchant, dining, entertainment offers, and other discounts.

The Bread Cashback Amex joins an already robust selection of Bread Financial solutions. These features include Bread Pay, a buy now, pay later (BNPL) service, and Bread Savings (formerly known as Comenity Direct). With the new Amex credit card, Bread provides consumers at all stages of their financial lives access to a robust suite of solutions to serve their payment and saving needs.

“Financial Flexibility Free of Gimmicks”

“From the just-getting-started college graduate to the credit-savvy bargain hunter, everyone deserves access to financial flexibility free of gimmicks and complexity,” said Bread Financial Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Val Greer in a press release. “The Bread Cashback American Express Card opens up limitless opportunities for consumers and empowers them to make the purchases they need in the moment or the future with ease and transparency.”

“When we rebranded to Bread Financial in March, we made a promise to our customers to focus on delivering the innovative payment, lending, and saving solutions they need at each and every stage of their financial journeys,” Greer added.

“We’re excited to be partnering with Bread Financial to offer their customers a new leading cashback product backed by the American Express network with compelling value, rewards, and services,” said Will Stredwick, SVP, and GM, global network services, American Express. “This partnership expands and extends the backing of the American Express network to more people, providing important card protections, offers, and access they expect from American Express.”

How the Bread Cashback American Express Compares to Rivals

The 2% cash back with Bread’s new Cashback American Express Card is  on par with several leading credit cards from leading issuers (namely the Citi® Double Cash Card and the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card). Both cards also feature no cap on rewards and no annual fee.

Here’s how the three unlimited cash back credit cards mentioned compare:

bread amex 141x224

Bread Cashback

  • 2% cash back on all eligible purchases
  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fees
citi double cash 224x141

Citi® Double Cash Card

  • 2% back on all purchases (1% back when you purchase and 1% back when you pay)
  • 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months after completing within first 4 months of account opening
  • No annual fee
Wells Fargo Active Cash Card

Wells Fargo Active Cash Card

  • Unlimited 2% back on all purchases
  • Introductory 0% APR for 15 months on balance transfers and purchases
  • No annual fee
  • 3% foreign transaction fee
Read Review
Read Review

Related Article: How to Pre-Qualify for a Credit Card

Featured image by Bread Financial

Citi Double Cash vs. Other Unlimited Cash Back Cards

by Cory Santos
citi-double-cash-vs-other-unlimited-cash-back-cards

Last updated on March 4th, 2024

The Citi® Double Cash Card is an unlimited cash back credit card from Citi that offers 2% cash back on all eligible purchases. But how does the Double Cash stack up against the competition? Here is everything you need about the Citi Double Cash Card vs. its biggest rivals:

This post may contain links from partner offers, and we may receive compensation when you click on links to these offers. Please see our advertiser and editorial disclosures above for more information. Citi is an advertising partner.

Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer

Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions
Excellent-Good
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
Mastercard Processing Network
$0 Annual Fee

Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer

  • 18.99% – 28.99% (Variable) Regular Purchase APR
  • 18.99% – 28.99% (Variable) Balance Transfer APR
  • 29.99% (Variable) Cash Advance APR

At a Glance

The Citi® Double Cash Card is one of the most versatile cash back credit cards on the market today, thanks to impressive, flat-rate cash back, lucrative introductory 0% APR offers, and more. Cardholders earn 2% back on every eligible purchase: 1% back at the time of sale and an additional 1% back when they pay their statement balance. Cash back is redeemable for statement credits, direct deposits, checks, or converted as ThankYou® points.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
  • To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time.
  • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.99% – 28.99%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
  • Regular Purchase APR: 18.99% – 28.99% (Variable)
  • Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% for 18 months on Balance Transfers
  • Balance Transfer APR: 18.99% – 28.99% (Variable)
  • Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. A balance transfer fee of 5% of each transfer ($5 minimum) applies if completed after 4 months of account opening.
  • 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 prefer earning cash back at a flat rate rather than in rotating categories
  • You’re looking to either consolidate existing balances or pay down a large purchase with no interest charges for an extended period of time
  • You like to have the flexibility of converting cash back into lucrative rewards points
  • You’re considering a credit card without an annual fee
Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer

Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer

Terms & Conditions
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Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer

The Citi Double Cash Card is a leading unlimited cash back credit card from Citibank. The card is one of the most versatile cash back credit cards on the market today, thanks to impressive, flat-rate cash back, lucrative 0% introductory APR offer, and no annual fee.

Double Cash cardmembers earn 2% back on every eligible purchase: 1% back at the time of sale and an additional 1% back when they pay their statement balance. The card also features a lengthy 18-month introductory APR on balance transfers – one of the longest intro APR periods available today for a cash back credit card.

It’s worth noting that not all transactions apply for 2% cash back with cards like the Double Cash. Here is a list of transactions that do not qualify for rewards:

Balance transfers Card account checks Unauthorized or fraudulent transactions
Cash advances Returns for credit Traveler’s cheques or foreign currency purchases
Lottery tickets Money orders or wire transfers Reloading of a prepaid debit or gift cards
Card fees, late fees, or finance charges

And here is a quick breakdown of all the other current offers with the Double Card:

  • No annual fee
  • 0% Intro APR for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers. After that, the variable APR will be 14.24% – 24.24%, based on your creditworthiness.

How Does the Citi Double Cash Compare to Other Unlimited Cash Back Cards?

Are you thinking about applying for the Citi Double Cash Card? While the card is an exceptional value, here is how it compares to many of the leading competitors on the unlimited cash back card market:

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Learn more about the Chase Freedom Unlimited® Terms & Conditions
Excellent-Good
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
Visa Processing Network
None Annual Fee

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

  • 18.24% to 27.74% Variable Regular Purchase APR
  • 18.24% to 27.74% Variable Balance Transfer APR
  • 28.49% Variable Cash Advance APR
  • 0% for 15 months from account opening date Intro Purchase APR

At a Glance

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® credit card is a reliable option for customers looking to pair an attractive cash back rewards program with generous introductory interest rates. Cardholders can redeem for cash, travel, and more.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
  • Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can use points to redeem for cash through an account statement credit or an electronic deposit into an eligible Chase account located in the United States!
  • Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.24% – 27.74%.
  • No annual fee – You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
  • Member FDIC
  • Intro Purchase APR: 0% for 15 months from account opening date
  • Regular Purchase APR: 18.24% to 27.74% Variable
  • Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% for 15 months from account opening date
  • Balance Transfer APR: 18.24% to 27.74% Variable
  • Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
  • Cash Advance APR: 28.49% Variable
  • Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
  • Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars
  • You are looking for a low-rate credit card to perform a balance transfer
  • You prefer straightforward rewards earnings rather than quarterly categories requiring activation
  • You’ll make at least $500 in purchases in the first 90 days
  • You do’t want to pay an annual fee
Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Terms & Conditions
Learn more about the Chase Freedom Unlimited® Terms & Conditions

Chase Freedom Unlimited

The Chase Freedom Unlimited isn’t an exact match for the Citi Double Cash Card, but that doesn’t mean there are no comparisons between the two credit cards. The Freedom Unlimited Card earns an unlimited 1.5% back with every purchase – with some exceptions. That 1.5% back isn’t as impressive as the up to 5% back that comes with the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card or even the unlimited 2% back with the Double cash. That said, earning 1.5% back is an exceptional value.

Freedom Unlimited also earns 3% back on bonus categories dining and restaurant purchases, including take-out orders and deliveries through eligible delivery services, like Grub Hub and UberEATS. That 3% back also applies to drugstore purchases. Finally, the card earns 5% back on travel booked through Chase’s Ultimate Rewards portal.

The Citi Double Cash provides more of an introductory APR period than Chase. The Double Cash offers 0% introductory APR for 18 months on balance transfers vs. the 15 months of 0% intro APR with Freedom Unlimited. Fortunately, Chase extends that intro App to purchases and balance transfers versus only BTs with Citibank.

TD Double Up Card

TD Double Up Card
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions
Excellent-Good
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
Visa Processing Network
None Annual Fee

TD Double Up Card

  • 19.99%, 24.99% or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
  • 19.99%, 24.99% or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
  • 30.24% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR

At a Glance

The TD Double Up Visa Card is a no-annual-fee 2% cash back card from TD Bank. The card also offers an introductory 0% APR on balance transfers, a $150 statement credit bonus after meeting minimum spend requirements, and more.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • No annual fee
  • Earn up to 2% cash back on all purchases
  • 0% APR for 15 months on balance transfers
  • Regular Purchase APR: 19.99%, 24.99% or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
  • Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% for 15 months from account opening date
  • Balance Transfer APR: 19.99%, 24.99% or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
  • Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • Cash Advance APR: 30.24% 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 $40
  • Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
  • You already bank with TD Bank
  • You prefer statement credits to travel or merchandise awards
  • You don’t want to pay an annual fee
  • You’re looking for a credit card that can earn additional cash back
TD Double Up Card

TD Double Up Card

Terms & Conditions
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TD Bank Double Up

The TD Double Up Card is one of the closest competitors to the Double Cash Mastercard regarding features. Like the Double Cash Card from Citibank, the TD Double Up Visa Card earns an unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases. And, like Citi’s card, that 2% back takes the form of 1% back now – and 1% back later.

Cardholders automatically earn 1% cash back on all purchases, regardless of category, and an additional 1% cash back when rewards are redeemed into an eligible TD deposit account. Because of this unique structure, the card offers exceptional value to current TD Bank banking customers looking to maximize their savings.

Where the two cards diverge are the sign-up bonus and introductory APR. The Double Up enjoys 0% intro APR on BTs for 15 months vs. the 18 months of 0% intro APR on balance transfers with the Double Cash Card from Citibank.

Wells Fargo Active Cash Card

Wells Fargo Active Cash Card
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions
Excellent-Good
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
Visa Processing Network
None Annual Fee

Wells Fargo Active Cash Card

  • 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
  • 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
  • 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
  • 0% for 15 months from account opening date Intro Purchase APR

At a Glance

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Visa Card offers Wells Fargo customers unlimited 2% back, two generous introductory offers, and various protections – all for no annual fee.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • No annual fee
  • 0% APR for 15 months on balance transfers and purchases
  • Earn unlimited 2% cash back on all eligible purchases
  • Intro Purchase APR: 0% for 15 months from account opening date
  • Regular Purchase APR: 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
  • Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% for 15 months from account opening date
  • Balance Transfer APR: 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% 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: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
  • Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance, whichever is greater
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars
  • Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
  • Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
  • You don’t like the hassle of bonus reward categories
  • You want a lengthy 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
  • You want a card with a $0 annual fee
Wells Fargo Active Cash Card

Wells Fargo Active Cash Card

Terms & Conditions
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions

Wells Fargo Active Cash

The Wells Fargo Active Cash is a versatile cash back credit card that provides unlimited 2% cash back rewards without the annual fee. The card provides many of the same features as Citi’s Double Cash Mastercard but with a key difference.

The major difference between the Citi Double Cash vs. the Wells Fargo Active cash is the introductory APR offers. The Double Cash provides 18 months of 0% introductory APR on balance transfers. The WF Active Cash, on the other hand, provides 0% intro APR for 15 months on both purchases and balance transfers.

Have an existing balance? In that case, the Double Cash might be right for you. Prefer to earn rewards as ThankYou Rewards points instead of cash back? The Double Cash is again the winner. But if you want an intro APR on purchases, the Active Cash has the edge.

Apple Card

Apple Card
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions
Excellent-Good-Fair
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
Mastercard Processing Network
None Annual Fee

Apple Card

  • 15.74% to 26.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR

At a Glance

You don’t need to need to be a die-hard fan to fall in love with the intelligently designed Apple Card. Designed for digital use in conjunction with Apple Pay (spoiler: an iPhone is required), this card boasts no annual fee – or any fees for that matter – up to 3% cash back for Apple and other popular retailers, automatic cash back rewards, a gorgeous interface for monitoring your spending, and innovative security features to make credit card theft a worry of the past.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • No annual fee
  • Earn cash back with every purchase
  • No hidden fees
  • Get a detailed breakdown of your spending from your iPhone
  • Regular Purchase APR: 15.74% to 26.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
  • You own an iPhone (or are planning to buy one)
  • You’re loyal to the Apple ecosystem
  • You frequently use your mobile device for making purchases (a.k.a. your digital wallet)
  • You do’t want to worry about carrying your wallet everywhere you go to make purchases
  • You do’t want the hassle of deciding how to redeem rewards
Apple Card

Apple Card

Terms & Conditions
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions

Apple Card

You don’t need to be a die-hard fan to fall in love with the intelligently designed Apple Card. The card earns accelerated rewards with Apple Pay making the card essentially an unlimited 2% back credit card – with a twist. Apple Pay is one of the most popular digital/mobile wallets on the market,

The card earns 2% cash back on all purchases made through Apple Pay, placing the card firmly in the same space as the Citi Double Cash. The Apple Card also earns 3% cash back on purchases with select brands, including Apple products and subscriptions, Panera, T Mobile, Nike, ExxonMobil, and Walgreens, plus 1% back on all other purchases.

While the 2% back with Apple Pay make the Apple Card a competitor to the Double Cash Card from Citi, the comparison is incomplete. Only select transactions (outlined above) do not earn cash back with the Citi Double Cash vs. the Apple Card’s 2% back only through one mobile wallet. Where Apple Pay enjoys popularity, the double cash back with the Double Cash is early universal.

The Citi Double Cash Card also features a lengthy 0% intro APR period on balance transfers. New Citi Double Cash cardmembers enjoy 18 months of 0% intro APR on BTs – one of the longest balance transfer offers for a cash back card on the market today.

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PayPal Cashback Mastercard

The PayPal Cashback Mastercard offers the same hassle-free approach as the Citi Custom Vas, but with a heavy emphasis on the PayPal network. Cardholders earn their 3% back when using their card anywhere in the world where PayPal is accepted. All other purchases with the card earn 2% cash back.

The great feature of the PayPal Mastercard is the seamless way it integrates into an existing PayPal account. Cardmembers can use their card to set up recurring payments of subscriptions, send money to friends or family, or male purchases at millions of retailers worldwide.

Like the Apple Card, the strength of the PayPal Cashback Mastercard is offset by some limitations. The primary limitation is the PayPal network. While PayPal is one of the largest third-party payment platforms in North America, it is limited abroad, making it less useful for those planning on traveling with their credit card. Additionally, the Double Cash features that 0% intro APR offer – something the PayPal Mastercard lacks.

Featured image by Tama66/PixaBay

Unlock Even More Way Day Savings w/ Wayfair Mastercard

by Cory Santos
unlock-even-more-way-day-savings-w-wayfair-mastercard

Last updated on March 4th, 2024

Citi is making it even easier for Wayfair fans to unlock additional savings during the brand’s Way Day celebrations. Through April 28, new and existing Citi Wayfair credit cardmembers can receive $40 off their qualifying first purchase of $100 or more. Here’s all you need to know about Citi and Wayfair’s new Wayfair Mastercard Way Day promotion:

Citi and Wayfair Team Up for Way Day 2022 Promotion

Citi and Wayfair are joining forces to help make Way Day 2022 even more rewarding. From April 20 through April 28, new customers who apply and are accepted for the Wayfair Mastercard credit card with Citi Retail Services can receive $40 off their qualifying first purchase of $100 or more. Also, existing cardmembers who have not yet placed a qualifying order may also receive these additional savings.

What Is Way Day?

Way Day is Wayfair’s s annual sales event. Way Day 2022 begins today, April 27 and ends Thursday, April 28. The Way Day promotion is Wayfair’s largest sales event of the year, and it includes all the Wayfair brands, including Joss & Main, AllModern, Birch Lane, and more.

About the Wayfair Mastercard

The Wayfair Mastercard® is one of Citi’s newest co-brand rewards credit cards. The card provides cardmembers 5% back in Rewards on purchases made with Wayfair brands, plus additional cash back rewards on select purchases you make outside of Wayfair.

Wayfair Mastercard cardmembers earn the following rewards outside of Wayfair purchases:

  • 3% back at grocery stores
  • 2% on online purchases
  • 1% everywhere else

Cardmembers also have the option of selecting special 60-month financing on select Wayfair purchases, instead of 5% back in Rewards.

The Wayfair Mastercard is a family of Wayfair credit cards, featuring all the biggest names under the Wayfair umbrella. Current Citi Wayfair credit cards include:

Citi and Wayfair

Citibank is one of the largest issuers of co-branded  credit cards and closed-loop credit cards in the United States. Since Citi Retail Services and Wayfair launched a private label Wayfair Credit Card and co-brand Wayfair Mastercard in September 2020, Citi now services many of the top ecommerce companies in the US with consumer credit card programs, including Home Depot, Sears, Best Buy, Costco and Macy’s.

Citi also issues a popular range of proprietary credit cards. Citi credit cards offer lengthy 0% intro APR periods on balance transfers and purchases, plus valuable cash back or ThankYou Rewards with every purchases.

Related Article: Unlock 15% More Gift Card Value w/ Citi Double Cash

Featured image by Wayfair

The Citi Custom Cash℠ Card Vs. Other Cash Back Cards

by Cory Santos
citi-custom-cash-vs-other-cash-back-cards

Last updated on September 19th, 2023

The Citi Custom Cash℠ Card is as unique as it is popular. The cash back credit card from Citi offers 5% cash back on purchases in a top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 in spending each month, and 1% cash back on all other purchases. But how does the Custom Cash stack up against the competition? Here is everything you need about the Citi Custom Cash Card vs. its biggest rivals:

This post may contain links from partner offers, and we may receive compensation when you click on links to these offers. Please see our advertiser and editorial disclosures above for more information. Citi is an advertising partner.

Citi Custom Cash℠ Card

Citi Custom Cash℠ Card
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions
Excellent-Good
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
Mastercard Processing Network
$0 Annual 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 Purchases Intro 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
  • You don’t want to pay an annual fee
Citi Custom Cash℠ Card

Citi Custom Cash℠ Card

Terms & Conditions
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions

Citi Custom Cash℠ Card

The Citi Custom Cash℠ Card is one of the most popular cash back credit cards available today. It offers enhanced earning of 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, and 1% cash back thereafter. Plus, you’ll earn 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically.

Additionally, the Custom Cash Card comes with a lengthy 0% intro APR period on purchases and balance transfers (BTs), an easily attainable cash back welcome bonus, and no annual fee.

Here are the 5% back categories in which Custom Cash cardmembers can earn 5% back on the first $500 spent every billing period:

Dining Fitness clubs Grocery stores
Drugstores Gas stations Home improvement stores
Travel & transit (select) Live entertainment Streaming service (select)

And here is a quick breakdown of all the other current offers with the Custom Cash Card:

  • No annual fee
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. After that, the APR will be variable and based on your creditworthiness.
  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $750 on purchases in the first three months of account opening

How Does the Citi Custom Cash Compare to Other Cash Back Cards?

Are you thinking about applying for the Citi Custom Cash Card? While the card is an exceptional value, here is how it compares to many of the leading competitors on the cash back card market:

Chase Freedom Flex

Chase Freedom Flex
Learn more about the Chase Freedom Flex Terms & Conditions
Excellent-Good
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
Mastercard Processing Network
None Annual Fee

Chase Freedom Flex

  • 19.74% to 28.49% variable Regular Purchase APR
  • 19.74% to 28.49% variable Balance Transfer APR
  • 29.49% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
  • 0% for 15 months from account opening date Intro Purchase APR

At a Glance

The Chase Freedom Flex is a hybrid cash back credit card that offers something for everyone. The card earns 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases, plus up to 5% back on rotating categories each quarter after activation – all for no annual fee.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Earn 5% on up to $1,500 on combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate
  • Earn 5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
  • Earn 3% on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
  • Earn 3% on drugstore purchases
  • Earn 1% on all other purchases
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.24%-27.99%
  • No annual fee – You wo’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex℠ card
  • Intro Purchase APR: 0% for 15 months from account opening date
  • Regular Purchase APR: 19.74% to 28.49% variable
  • Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% for 15 months from account opening date
  • Balance Transfer APR: 19.74% to 28.49% variable
  • Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Intro fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater, on transfers made within 60 days of account opening. After that: 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 cash advance, whichever is greater
  • Penalty APR: Up to 29.99%
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars
  • Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
  • Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
  • You want a versatile cash back credit card that earns rewards across various categories
  • You don’t mind the lower cash back rates for dining and drugstore purchases over previous Chase cards
  • You prefer to book travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards
  • You don’t want to pay an annual fee for premium Mastercard features
Chase Freedom Flex

Chase Freedom Flex

Terms & Conditions
Learn more about the Chase Freedom Flex Terms & Conditions

Chase Freedom Flex

The Chase Freedom Flex is one of the most popular 5% back credit cards, thanks to its quarterly rotating cash back categories. These categories offer lucrative savings on things like gas stations, home improvement, groceries, and more.

For example, the Freedom Flex 5% cash back categories for Q2 of 2022 are Amazon.com and streaming services. Freedom Flex cardmembers earn 5% back on the first $1,500 spent on eligible purchases per quarter, and 1% after that.

Chase not listing the upcoming quarterly categories at the beginning of the year is the biggest letdown with the Freedom Flex. Chase announces the new bonus categories several weeks before they activate, making it difficult to plan your spending ahead of time.

On the other hand, the Citi Custom Cash doesn’t rely on rotating categories. Instead, the card offers 5% back on your top spending category. Additionally, the 5% back categories are known, making it easier to plan purchases ahead of schedule with the Custom Cash.

Discover it® Cash Back

Discover it® Cash Back
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions
Excellent-Good
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
Discover Processing Network
None Annual Fee

Discover it® Cash Back

  • 17.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
  • 17.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
  • 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
  • 0% for 18 months from account opening Intro Purchase APR

At a Glance

The Discover It Cash Back Card is a cash back credit card that offers enhanced earning potential in a selection of rotating categories. Cardholders earn 5% back on purchases in categories that rotate each quarter, and 1% on all other purchases. The card also features 0% intro APR for the first 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, Discover’s 100% U.S.-based customer service, Discover’s bonus cash back match, and no annual fee or foreign transaction fees.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • 5% cash back in rotating categories each quarter, up to the quarterly maximum, when you activate
  • Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically
  • Discover matches all of the cash back earned by the cardholder at the end of the first year automatically; there is no limit to how much cash back is matched
  • Cash back rewards never expire, earn unlimited cash back
  • Use rewards at Amazon checkout
  • No annual fee
  • Intro Purchase APR: 0% for 18 months from account opening
  • Regular Purchase APR: 17.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
  • Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% for 18 months from date of first transfer
  • Balance Transfer APR: 17.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
  • Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: 3% of the amount of each transfer posted at the promotional rate. After that, 5% of the amount of each transfer
  • Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
  • Cash Advance Transaction Fee: $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
  • Late Payment Penalty Fee: None the first time you pay late. After that, up to $41
  • Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $41
  • You want to earn 5% back on select category purchases each quarter, including restaurants, gas stations, select rideshares, and online shopping
  • You don’t want to pay an annual fee or foreign transaction fees
  • You want 100% U.S.-based customer service
  • You don’t mind rotating categories changing every three months
Discover it® Cash Back

Discover it® Cash Back

Terms & Conditions
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions

Discover it Cash Back

The Discover It Cash Back is another 5% cash back card. Like the Freedom Flex (and the old Citi Dividend Card – no longer accepting new applicants), It cardholders earn 5% cash back on the first $1,500 in quarterly spending on rotating categories. For Q2 2022, Discover cardholders earn 5% back on Target and gas station purchases.

Unlike the Flex, Discover makes its entire cashback calendar available to cardholders in November, making it easier to plan potential spending for the next year. Discover keeps its calendar fairly consistent, making it a reliable card year after year.

Discover’s Cashback match is another highlight of Discover credit cards. The Cashback Match means Discover will automatically match all of your cash back for the first year. Earn $200 in cash back? Discover will automatically match that, giving your $400 back in year one.

This welcome offer is very competitive for new applicants. It can easily surpass the current welcome offer for the Custom Cash. Still, the Custom Cash might provide better value for those wanting a welcome bonus in the first three months – and not after the first year.

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions
Excellent-Good
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
Mastercard Processing Network
None Annual Fee

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

  • 18.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
  • 18.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
  • 21.24% to 30.24% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
  • 0% for 15 billing cycles from account opening date Intro Purchase APR

At a Glance

The Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card boasts impressively flexible cash rewards on purchases in the category of your choice, on top of cash back for groceries and other everyday purchases. This card also offers an attractive introductory APR for purchases and balance transfers, making it a great all-around rewards card for those with dynamic purchase habits.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • 3% cash back on the category of your choice: gas, EV charging, phone, internet, and cable plans, select streaming, online shopping, dining, travel, drug stores, or home improvement
  • Earn automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases)
  • 1% on all other purchases
  • Introductory 0% APR for the first 15 billing cycles from the date you open your account
  • Free FICO® Score reports updated monthly so you can monitor your credit score
  • Intro Purchase APR: 0% for 15 billing cycles from account opening date
  • Regular Purchase APR: 18.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
  • Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% for 15 billing cycles on transfers made within 60 days from account opening date
  • Balance Transfer APR: 18.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
  • Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 3% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
  • Cash Advance APR: 21.24% to 30.24% 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 creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars
  • Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
  • You want the flexibility to choose your cash back category from month to month
  • You’re looking for a generous rewards credit card with no annual fee
  • You plan to take advantage of the long introductory APR period with a significant purchase or balance transfer
  • You have a Bank of America checking or savings account and qualify for a Preferred Rewards membership
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

Terms & Conditions
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions
​

Bank of America Customized Cash

The Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Card is another direct competitor – albeit offering rewards at a lower rate than the Custom Cash Card by Citi. Customized Cash cardholders earn 3% cash back on the first $3,500 in spending per quarter in their choice of the following categories: gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drug stores, or home improvement.

This 3% back earing rate is well below the 5% back on the top category you’d get with the Custom Cash. Additionally, Citi offers automatic category adjustments versus the manual selection found with the U.S. Bank rewards credit card.

Where the U.S. Bank Cash+ has the upper hand on the Custom Cash is the addition of secondary bonus categories that earn enhanced rewards. Cardholders also earn 2% back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs and 1% cash back on all other purchases. In comparison, the Custom Cash only offers one accelerator cash back category.

U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions
Excellent
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
Visa Processing Network
None Annual Fee

U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

  • 19.74% to 29.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
  • 19.74% to 29.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
  • 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
  • 0% for 15 months from account opening Intro Purchase APR

At a Glance

The U.S. Bank Cash + Visa Signature Card is an excellent cash back credit card that gives holders the power to decide how they earn their cash back. The card earns 5% back on two select categories you choose, 2% back on one “everyday” category a user selects, and 1% back on all other purchases.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • New! $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening
  • 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose
  • 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Travel Center
  • 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants
  • 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases
  • No Annual Fee
  • Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100+ into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™ Plan
  • Terms and conditions apply
  • Intro Purchase APR: 0% for 15 months from account opening
  • Regular Purchase APR: 19.74% to 29.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
  • Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% for 15 months on transfers made within 60 days from account opening date
  • Balance Transfer APR: 19.74% to 29.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
  • Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • 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
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 2% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars
  • Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $41
  • Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $41
  • You want the ability to choose your enhanced cash back categories
  • You like the freedom of switching categories each quarter
  • You don’t want to pay an annual fee
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

Terms & Conditions
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions

U.S. Bank Cash+

The U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa is a more direct competitor to the Citi Custom Cash than either the Discover It or the Chase Freedom Flex. The selling point of the Cash+ is the ability to select your categories to maximize your cash back earnings – the same selling point as the Custom Cash.

Cash+ cardholders earn 5% back on the first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases the following categories:

TV, internet, and streaming services Cell phone providers Electronics stores
Fast food Home utilities Furniture stores
Department stores Clothing stores Movie theaters
Ground transportation Fitness centers Sporting goods stores

The great thing about the Cash+ is that you select two categories to earn up to 5% back. The drawback, however, is that the categories must be activated and are set for the full quarter.

Alternatively, the Citi Custom Cash offers 5% back on your top spending category each billing period. This feature means your cash back is always maximized automatically, with no activation enquired.

Related Article: The Ultimate Guide to Credit Cards for Groceries & Delivery Services

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Digital Wallets 101: How to Add a Credit Card to a Digital Wallet

by Cory Santos
digital wallets 101 how to add a credit card to a digital wallet

Last updated on April 3rd, 2024

Move over, physical credit cards – making secure payments is a breeze thanks to the digital wallet – but how do you add a card? No more swiping – here’s how.

At a Glance

How to Add Your Credit Card to All the Leading Mobile Wallets

In this, the digital age, it is nearly unheard of to leave the house without a cell phone or other smart device. We use our phones for much more than making phone calls – they help us navigate to our destination, we take pictures using them, and communicate by text, WhatsApp, and multiple social networks – all from a glowing, handheld box.

In fact, most people keep more personal information on their phone than they do in their home – passwords, addresses, emails, and much more. The advent of online payment has seen the evolution of another use for the smartphone: mobile payments, using a digital wallet.

What is a Digital Wallet?

A digital wallet, simply put, is an electronic service that permits the user to make digital purchases either online (through a browser on a desktop) or by using a smartphone or other mobile device in conjunction with an app. Also known as an “e-wallet” or a mobile wallet, a digital wallet is a convenient method for making payments in-person, as it eliminates the need to carry a physical wallet in a pocket or purse.

The digital wallet stores credit card and debit card info, which can be accessed to make payments by using an app or online service; many people consider a digital wallet to be a safer alternative to carrying a card or a cash – since personal information is encrypted, it is difficult to steal credit card info and other sensitive data.

Digital wallets use near-field communication (NFC), a technology that allows contactless payments to be made by transmitting stored credit information and debit card/ bank account information when a supported device is brought into close proximity to a payment terminal. The purchases can be completed wherever you see the contactless symbol at merchants.

What Digital Wallet Should I Use?

Ultimately, deciding which digital wallet service is a good fit for you depends on more than personal preference – it depends on the device you use, as well. Some digital wallets are compatible with multiple platforms and devices, while others are only available for certain operating systems.

Cash App, Venmo, and Paypal are great examples of “universal” digital payment systems; these digital wallets can be used online and on multiple devices, as long as the app has been downloaded. Other digital wallet services like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay may only be available on certain devices; Samsung Pay, for example, will not work with an iPhone, and Apple Pay is not compatible with an Android mobile device.

The convenience of using a mobile wallet speaks for itself – as long as you have your smartphone or tablet, you’ll never need to carry cash or plastic again. That said, setting up a mobile wallet may not be as intuitive as simply swiping that shiny credit card in the wallet in your pocket – and the fact that there are multiple types of mobile payment methods can also be confusing, too.

Apple Pay

how to add apple pay to mobile wallet

Adding Credit Card Information to Apple Pay

Apple Pay is one of the original digital wallet services. Not to be confused with Apple Cash (which allows you to send and receive money in Messages), Apple Pay is a digital wallet available on all iPhones, iPad tablets, and Apple Watches.

New Apple devices now come with the Wallet app preloaded and ready for you to set up. It’s free to use, and easy to set up; following the following steps will allow you to quickly add a new credit or debit card to your Apple Pay account:

Apple Pay is one of the original digital wallet services. Not to be confused with Apple Cash (which allows you to send and receive money in Messages), Apple Pay is a digital wallet available on all iPhones, iPad tablets, and Apple Watches. New Apple devices now come with the Wallet app preloaded and ready for you to set up. It’s free to use, and easy to set up; following the following steps will allow you to quickly add a new credit or debit card to your Apple Pay account: On your iPhone:

  1. Make sure you are using the latest iOS, as you may be prompted to update your Apple device if you have not already done so.
  2. Find the Wallet app, and tap the + sign at the top right corner. As a security measure, you may be prompted to sign in using your Apple ID.
  3. To add a new card, you can position your iPhone above the card and allow it to take a picture of the credit or debit card to digitally add it, or you can elect to enter the card details manually.
  4. The bank/card issuer will verify your card; once verified, you can begin using Apple Pay on your phone!
On your iPad:
  1. Go to Settings, and find Wallet & Apple Pay.
  2. Tap “Add Card.”
  3. Follow the above steps to add a new card. Tap Next; your bank or card issuer will verify your information and decide if your card can be used with Apple Pay.
  4. Once the Bank has verified your card, tap Next and start using Apple Pay.
On your Apple Watch:
  1. Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone.
  2. Go to the My Watch tab and select the watch you want to add a card to.
  3. Tap Wallet & Apple Pay and follow the prompts, enter your information, and verify the card with your bank.
Things to remember:
  • If you plan to use Apple Pay with more than one Apple device, you will need to add the card(s) you want to use to each device.
  • The first card you add to your Wallet becomes your default card for all payments. You can set a different card as the default by moving it to the front of the stack: Touch and hold the card, and drag it to the front of the stack.
  • Apple requires authorization via Touch ID, or Face ID; users who have older phone models without these authorization factors can still use Apple Pay, but must pair their device with an Apple Watch in order for Apply Pay to work at checkout.

Google Pay

how to add google pay to your mobile wallet

Adding Credit Card Information to Google Pay

Google Pay is Google’s answer to Apple Pay. Originally Google Wallet, Google merged with Android Pay to become Google Pay. Google Pay requires a debit or credit card (or a PayPal account) and a supported Google Pay device – a non-rooted Android phone, a Wear OS watch, or a desktop/laptop computer. 

One perk that sets Google Pay apart from its competitors is the ability to use Google Pay at ATMs to withdraw cash. Additionally, unlike Apple Pay (which can only be used on an Apple device), Google Pay is an app that can be downloaded and used on both Android and Apple mobile devices. This digital wallet from Google and android is free to use, and can be set up as follows:

  1. Download the Google Pay app.
  2. Open the app and locate the Payment button at the bottom.
  3. Tap Payment, then tap Add to add your credit or debit card.
  4. Use the camera on your device to capture the card info, or enter it yourself.
  5. Select an option to verify your payment method, then find and enter the verification code.
Things to remember:
  • Google Pay does not require a fingerprint or face scan to complete a transaction from a smartphone. Authorization will depend on the device you are using, and can include a fingerprint scan, a PIN, a password, face recognition, and even an iris scan.
  • Google Pay is widely accepted, and supports all major credit cards.
  • The first card you add to Google Pay becomes your default card for all payments; you can change it easily by using the app.

Samsung Pay

how to add your credit card to samsung pay on your phone or smart watch

Adding a Credit Card to Samsung Pay

Samsung has also developed their own version of a digital wallet service, aptly named Samsung Pay. Samsung Pay is only available to Samsung phone owners, who must download an app to their phone to make payments. 

One major perk that makes Samsung Pay stand out: Users have the opportunity to earn Samsung Rewards in addition to the rewards they may already earn from their credit card; Samsung rewards points can be redeemed for gift cards, cash back, Samsung products and other merchandise, and even entry into instant win games.

 Free to use, Samsung Pay can be set up easily by following these simple steps on a Samsung device:

  1. From the home screen, navigate to Apps and locate Samsung Pay.
  2. Tap Menu in the top left corner, and then tap Cards.
  3. Tap Add credit/debit card (a blue + icon), and follow the on-screen instructions to register your card.
  4. As each card is added, you will be prompted to agree to the card’s terms and conditions.
Things to remember:
  • In addition to allowing users to store credit and debit cards, Samsung Pay supports loyalty, membership, and gift cards too.
  • Samsung Pay allows you to manage up to 10 payment cards (including credit and debit cards). You can add unlimited gift cards to your account.
  • Samsung Pay can be used at magnetic stripe and EMV (Europay, Mastercard and Visa) terminals as well as with NFC point-of-sale devices; Apple Pay and Google Pay do not support this functionality.

Summary

Given the convenience afforded to us by digital wallets and NFC payment methods, it’s easy to see why apps like Apple Pay, Garmin Pay, Venmo, Zelle, and others have become incredibly popular over the last few years. Best of all, they are safe to use – since personal information is encrypted and is not shared with the merchant you are making a transaction with, it is that much more difficult for a would-be thief to steal your personal data or credit card info. 

Each digital wallet that is available to consumers has its own set of perks; some are already installed on your device, while others give consumers added incentive to use them. They’re easy to set up, and even easier to use – if you have a smartphone and you’re sick of carrying around a wallet everywhere you go, consider adding your credit (and debit) cards to a digital wallet.

Related Article: The Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards

Reminder: Use Citi ThankYou Points for Minimum Due Payments

by Cory Santos
use-thankyou-points-for-minimum-due-card-payments

Last updated on April 26th, 2022

Citi ThankYou Points can now be used towards paying your Citi credit card’s minimum payment requirement. Here’s what you need to know about the bank adding credit card minimum payments as a ThankYou Rewards redemption option.

Citi Removes “Minimum Payment” Requirement for ThankYou Points Redemption

The Citi ThankYou Rewards Program has long offered the “Online Bill Pay with Points” redemption option. This redemption choice allows cardholders to use ThankYou Points to pay bills with other companies via a Citibank checking account.

Citi formerly did not allow cardholders to use ThankYou Points paying balances on Citi accounts, but that changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Citi ThankYou cardmembers can now redeem points towards statement credits to offset prior purchases. Additionally, Citi cash back rewards cardholders (Including the impressive Citi® Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer and Citi Custom Cash℠ Card) can use their cash back to make their minimum due payment.

Statement credits still required a minimum payment on the credit card account. This is no longer the case, thanks to the new redemption option. This perk is a good choice for those who may find themselves struggling to meet minimum payment obligations and who have a stockpile of Thankyou Points that they can make use of.

The program was originally set to run for a limited time only, but Citi has made this feature permanent for ThankYou Rewards cardmembers.

Use ThankYou Points Towards Your Mortgage

The addition of ThankYou Points as redeemable towards Citi credit card statement balances is welcome – but not the best value for money. The ThankYou program offers better redemption value for things like travel and cash back, for instance.

Another excellent redemption option is using points towards mortgage payments, including minimum payments. Citi has long allowed cardholders to use rewards points to offset some costs for their mortgage payments, at a rate of one cent per point.

To use ThankYou Points towards your mortgage, call Citi customer service at 1-800-THANKYOU (1-800-842-6596). Citi will then send checks directly to your mortgage servicer. While mortgage payments are a lesser-known award option, it’s a helpful tip that can save you money every month. It is also essentially the same as the bill pay award option, as a cardholder selects a payee and Citi does the rest.

Related Article: Unlock 15% More Gift Card Value w/ Citi Double Cash

The information related to the services mentioned above has been collected by BestCards.com and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer or provider of this product or service.

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