How to Maximize Cash Back

by Cory Santos
Here are some simple steps you can take to maximize the cash back you earn.

Last updated on September 19th, 2023

Maximizing cash back when shopping with a credit card is a great way to save money on everyday purchases. Here are some tips that can help you maximize your cash back the next time you shop:

How to Maximize Your Cash Back

Maximizing your cash back rewards doesn’t have to be challenging. Here are some helpful steps you can take to get the most bang for your buck when it comes to cash back:

Choose the Right Card

Maximizing rewards starts with choosing the right credit card for your needs. Not all credit cards are created equal when it comes to cash back.

Look for a new credit card that offers a high percentage of cash back on the categories of purchases that you make most often. For example, if you frequently shop at grocery stores, look for a credit card that offers high cash back on grocery purchases. Two cards that fit this profile include the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card (up to 5% back) and the Capital One® Savor® Cash Reward (up to 3% back).

Keep an Eye Out for Sign-Up Bonuses

Take advantage of sign-up bonuses: Many credit card companies offer sign-up bonuses for new customers. These bonuses can provide significant cash back if you meet the requirements. Read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure you can meet the spending requirements and earn the bonus.

Use Your Credit Card for Everyday Purchases & Pay In-Full

Use your credit card for everyday purchases: Use your credit card for as many everyday purchases as possible, such as groceries, gas, and household essentials. This will help you earn more cash back on regular purchases.

Additionally, pay your credit card bill monthly to avoid paying interest and additional fees. This will allow you to earn the most cash back without incurring additional costs.

Use Cash Back Websites for Additional Savings

Some websites and apps can help you find the best deals and earn the most cash back when shopping online. These websites often have partnerships with leading retailers. They can provide additional cash back on top of what your credit card offers.

BestCards Membership is one example of a deal site that can help you maximize your savings and earn a little money back. The BestCards Membership site allows members to combine their favorite credit cards with coupons from leading retailers, credit card networks, and more.

Even better, select purchases made through the BestCards Membership portal earn additional cash back – just for shopping with BestCards. If that’s not enough, new accounts receive double the cash back for the first thirty days!

Following these tips and using online resources can maximize your cash back and save money on your everyday purchases. Happy shopping!

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

Featured image by kaboompics/PixaBay

How to Save Money in College

by Cory Santos
how-to-save-money-in-college budget college student

Last updated on August 23rd, 2023

With college tuition costs continuing to soar, saving money in college has never been more important than it is now. Fortunately, saving money in college isn’t as hard as it sounds – it just takes patience, understanding, and the right tools. Here are some of the best ways to save money during your college years – including with student credit cards.

5 Tips to Save You Money During College

It can be challenging to balance expenses and save money at the same time as a college student. However, developing good saving habits early on in life can help you achieve financial stability in the long run. Here are some helpful tips for saving money in college:

Create a Budget (and Stick to It)

Saving money in college starts with setting a reasonable budget. Nowadays, most students make payments with cards or mobile wallets, making it easy to spend more money than expected quickly. Setting a reasonable budget can help eliminate over-spending and the inevitable scramble for money when the semester is nearly over.

To create a budget, carefully consider the types of purchases that are essential each month, including textbooks and school supplies, food, clothing, and entertainment. Also, ensure that the budget includes enough wiggle-room to ensure that any unexpected costs won’t break the bank and lead to empty pockets.

Once the budget is set, spend with consideration. For example, instead of meeting friends for coffee at a café every day, why not break a cup at home and put it in a travel mug and then meet up on campus instead?

Shop Smart by Using Online Deals and Coupons for Essentials

Shopping in-store offers plenty of benefits but buying online is one of the best ways to save money, thanks to online coupon and deal sites. Online shopping allows students to find coupons that they might have otherwise missed and stack those coupons with another manufacturer, payment network, or merchant offers.

When you stack deals, you add payment network deals to merchant coupons. Like Visa and Mastercard, payment networks provide exclusive savings to cardholders – regardless of if they have a debit or credit card. Stacking deals and coupons can provide significant savings – savings that only increase with free shipping or delivery that saves students money on gas.

Using a quality deals portal (like BestCards Membership) allows students to find deals from thousands of leading retailers, as well as network-specific deals from their bank or card issuer. Students can even earn cash back on select purchases – and even more cash back when they invite their friends or family to join and make eligible purchases through the portal. Even better, BestCards Membership is free to join.

Take Advantage of Credit Card Bonus Categories

An increasing number of credit card issuers are providing more lucrative rewards cards to students than ever before. Bank of America, for example, offers an impressive lineup of rewards credit cards for students, including the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students, the Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students, and the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students.

These cards offer enhanced rewards on all eligible purchases, with the Unlimited Rewards earning 1.5% cash back – and the Travel Rewards earning 1.5X points back – on all purchases. The Customized Cash Student Card, on the other hand, offers accelerated rewards of up to 3% cash back on the category of the student’s choice, with options including:

Gas Dining Online shopping
Travel Drug stores Home improvement

Other banks also provide excellent rewards credit cards for students. These include offers from national banks (Discover, Capital One, etc.), and regional banks and credit unions – including the new Wescom Bruin Choice Visa® Credit Card for UCLA students, from Wescom Credit Union.

For more information on college credit cards, check out our dedicated Student Credit Cards page. Always make sure you carefully weigh the benefits of a credit card before applying to ensure you maximize the categories and receive the most value from your new card.

Good Grades Discounts

Some card issuers provide good grade discounts and rebates for students that hold their credit cards and perform well in the classroom. Discover offers one of the most prominent “good grade” bonuses with its Good Grade Reward. If students keep their GPA above 3.0, Discover will reward cardholders with a $20 statement credit each school year. Since this bonus is good for up to five academic years, the total reward has a value of up to $100 – just for studying. This bonus applies to both the Discover It Chrome for Students and the Discover It Student Cash Back.

Pay Your Balance On-Time Every Month

Paying your credit card balance on time (and in full) every month is essential to saving money during your college years. Payment history is the single-largest impactor on FICO Scores, with just one late payment capable of ruining a young credit history.

Paying in full also keeps accounts from accruing significant interest and paying in full before the due date removes the stress of adding interest to a card’s balance – which can greatly reduce the cost of items and services over time. Because many student credit cards feature an interest rate on purchases of around 16%, not paying off a textbook purchase of $100 can quickly turn to $116 – and more, over time.

Chase offers students a good standing bonus through its Chase Freedom® Student Card. Students can earn $20 (2,000 points) each year on the account anniversary for up to 5 years. They just need to regularly pay the statement on time and adhere to the terms in the Cardmember Agreement to reach this yearly bonus – worth $20.

Related Article: How to Choose the Best Student Credit Card for You

Featured image by Shopify / Burst

Chase Gives New Year’s Eve Prep Boost w/ Instacart

by Jeannyn Gomez
how to prepare for new years with chase credit cards

While the holiday shopping rush might be over, there is still time to save on last-minute shopping with Chase credit cards. Select Chase credit cardholders, including Chase Sapphire and the Instacart Mastercard will enjoy even more value this holiday season – making New Year’s Eve prep a cinch.

Chase Offers New Year’s Savings for Select Cardmembers

Select Chase cardmembers are already eligible for free delivery on their Instacart orders for up to three, six or 12 months (depending on the eligible credit card, as well as the ability to earn statement credits on their Instacart purchases. These credits include the following:

Chase Sapphire

Chase Sapphire Reserve cardmembers receive one year of complimentary Instacart+ membership (if activated before July 31, 2024). Membership auto-renews. Plus, Instacart+ members earn up to $15 in statement credits each month through July 2024.  Similarly, Chase Sapphire Preferred cardmembers six months of complimentary Instacart+, plus up to $15 in statement credits each quarter through July 2024.  Additionally, both cards earn 3X points on dining at restaurants, including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out.

Instacart Mastercard®

The Instacart Mastercard allows cardmembers to earn accelerated points on purchases across the Instacart marketplace and offers several other benefits, perks, and savings, including 5% cash back on Instacart app and Instacart.com purchases. New accounts also receive one year of complimentary Instacart+ and a $100 Instacart credit.

Additional Benefits

Now that Christmas and Hannukah are over, attention can turn to celebrating 2022 – and ringing in 2023. Chase Is making New Year’s Eve preparations easier thanks to enhanced benefits the above-mentioned Chase cardmembers.

Here is what eligible cardmembers can take advantage of:

  • A Chance to Give Back – Community Carts: Instacart customers can share love through food and #GiveFromTheCart this holiday season by using Instacart’s new Community Cart feature, which reimagines traditional food drives, making it easy and fun for consumers to donate groceries directly to local food banks via the Instacart App.
  • Last-Minute Shopping + Same Day Gift Delivery – Skip the Ship: Instacart elves have officially sprinkled tons of gifting inspiration throughout the Instacart app, and with the ability to send gift orders to loved ones, it’s never been easier to ‘skip the ship’ and get last-minute holiday gifts delivered the same day with Instacart.
  • All The Inspiration – Holiday Hub: Instacart’s in-app ‘Holiday Hub’ features a plethora of seasonal items for every holiday need, including artificial trees, ornaments, tree trimmings, string lights, table and mantle decorations, and more. Eligible for same-day delivery.

Related Article: Best Credit Cards for Ringing in the New Year

Featured image by nck_gsl /PixaBay

Everything to Know About Foreign Transaction Fees

by Cory Santos
Everything you need to know about foreign transaction fees, i9ncluding the best no foreign transaction fees credit cards

Last updated on April 5th, 2023

Owning a credit card can cost you more than just interest charges. Most card terms and conditions include additional credit card processing fees – including foreign transaction fees. But what exactly are these charges, and how can you avoid paying them the next time you shop?

What is a Foreign Transaction fee?

In short, it’s a charge added to a credit card transaction when the purchase is made in a foreign currency or from a foreign merchant. This credit card fee is typically around 3% of the total transaction amount and is designed to cover the costs associated with processing and converting the transaction into the cardholder’s domestic currency.

Can You Be Charged Foreign Transaction Fees in the U.S.?

While usually associated with international travel, most people don’t realize that these fees also apply to some purchases made within the United States. Since they apply to purchases made through a foreign bank or is in a currency other than the US dollar (USD). This caveat means that many Americans could be paying these fees without even leaving the country.

What Influences the Foreign Transaction Fee?

A few different factors can influence the amount of these fees, including the credit card issuer, the type of card being used, and the location of the transaction. Some credit card issuers may waive them for certain transactions, such as those made at merchants that primarily do business in the cardholder’s domestic currency.

Generally, foreign transaction fees are calculated based on the total transaction amount in the foreign currency plus applicable exchange rate fees. The exchange rate fee is a charge added to the transaction amount to cover the cost of converting the foreign currency into the cardholder’s domestic currency. This fee is typically a percentage of the total transaction amount. It is then added to the total to calculate the final cost of the transaction.

For example, let’s say that a cardholder purchases 100 EUR from a foreign merchant using their credit card. The card issuer charges a 3% foreign transaction fee and a 1% exchange rate fee. The total foreign transaction fee for this transaction would be calculated as follows:

  • 100 EUR x 3% = 3 EUR
  • 100 EUR x 1% = 1 EUR
  • Total fee = 4 EUR

Consider a No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Card

The only way to completely avoid paying extra when shopping abroad (or when shopping within the U.S. in a foreign currency) is with a credit card that doesn’t charge any foreign currency fees. Not all credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee, so it’s worth shopping around to find a card that offers the lowest or no fees. Some credit card issuers offer cards specifically designed for international travel, which may have lower or no foreign transaction fees.

The Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi is an excellent no foreign transaction fees credit card for the Costco member. The card, which doubles as your Costco membership card, earns up to 4% cash back on gas station and EV charging stations, 3% back on travel and dining purchases, and more – all for no annual fee.

The Bilt Mastercard from Wells Fargo is another great option. The card is the first-of-its-kind rent credit card, earning 1X points on rent payments (up to 50,000 points each calendar year), 2X on travel, and 3X on dining. Even better, cardholders can use Bilt Rewards points to cover rent payments through Bilt or towards a future down payment.

Related Article: How To Use Your Citi Card for Entertainment

Featured image by angelolucas/PixaBay

AMC Theaters To Launch Credit Card

by Jeannyn Gomez
AMC Theaters to Launch Credit Card in 2023

Last updated on January 2nd, 2024

AMC Theaters is launching a co-branded credit card in early 2023. The new launch is a collaboration with Visa and Deserve, a fintech company. The new credit card launch promises to bring rewards to movie theater fanatics for movie theater experiences and everyday purchases.

AMC Theaters Credit Card Launch

AMC expects high demand for its AMC Entertainment Visa Card launch and has set in place a waitlist. Potential applicants can join the AMC credit card waitlist to guarantee first dibs on submitting a credit card application. In addition to being the first in line to access applications, those who apply will be entered into a sweepstake to win a trip to attend a red-carpet movie premiere. The winner will attend the event with AMC Chairman and CEO Adam Aron.

The AMC Entertainment Visa Card will be the first of its kind. AMC Theatres® is the largest theatrical exhibitor in the United States, so many loyal AMC moviegoers will benefit from getting their hands on the new AMC credit card. For now, the card will hold its title as the only co-branded movie theatre credit card in the United States. Through its partnership with Deserve, AMC can offer its cardholders rich and flexible rewards, 24/7 customer service, and best-in-class mobile experience and fraud protection.

“At Deserve, we want to help our branded card partners craft meaningful rewards and point programs that speak to value for their customers and give them the technology platform that allows them to quickly and securely launch any type of credit card product in the cloud, customized to their specific audience,” said Kalpesh Kapadia, Co-Founder, and CEO of Deserve. “Partnering with AMC to launch this card tailor-made for movie fans is a perfect example of this commitment.” Press Release

Rewards For AMC Movie Goers

The AMC Entertainment Visa Card is packed with the potential to earn AMC Stubs rewards points when used in-theater and for everyday purchases. Credit cardholders will earn more rewards when the credit card is used at gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and at AMC Theatres. The AMC Stubs rewards can be redeemed for all movie theater concession items like popcorn, Coca-Cola products, and AMC Dine-In & Feature Fare menu items.

Additionally, AMC Stubs A-List and Premiere members can use their AMC Stubs rewards for free or discounted movie tickets. The launch of the new AMC Entertainment Visa Card comes with a rewards promotion for new cardholders. When new card members spend $50 in the first three months, in return, they will receive $50 in AMC Stubs Bonus Bucks, redeemable at all domestic AMC locations and on AMCTheatres.com. The AMC Entertainment Visa Card is only available to AMC Stubs members.

Related Article: Guide to Credit Card Streaming Services

Featured Image by RgStudio/Getty Images Signature

How to Save Money Online with Coupon Stacking

by Cory Santos
how to stack online coupons and deals bestcards membership free

Last updated on February 20th, 2024

Nobody likes paying full price – if you can save money when shopping, it’s a no-brainer. So, what’s the best way to combine online deals and coupons? Here’s everything you need to know about coupon stacking:

What is Coupon Stacking?

Stacking coupons is the process of using multiple coupons or discounts on a single purchase. Using multiple discounts or stacking might apply to purchases of a single item or multiple items in a single transaction.

Some retailers set restrictions on how many coupons a customer can use on each transaction. Kohl’s, for example, limits customers to four coupons per transaction. Other stores, however, place no restrictions on the number of deals, coupons, or other discounts a customer can stack.

Stacking coupons requires using multiple types of coupons and discounts to maximize savings. There are three main types of coupons: store coupons, manufacturer coupons, and bank or payment network coupons.

Store Coupons

Store coupons are the rebates you find in the local paper, couponing websites, or retailer mobile apps. Coupons from stores may be regional or national and only work on purchases from that retailer. Store coupons are easily recognizable as they are the types of discounts you’ll see in local newspapers and magazines, on mail flyers, or through the store’s app or websites.

Manufacturer Coupons

Manufacturer coupons are discounts issued directly from the maker of a select product. These coupons are usually available online and offer extra savings when combined with another store coupon. Customers provide the manufacturer’s coupon in-store or redeem them through an online shopping portal, and the retailer then subtracts those savings from the purchase price.

Manufacturer rebates allow customers to make purchases of select products at the best price possible. This rebate ensures customers buy products from that manufacturer while also ensuring that the retailer also gains business.

Bank & Payment Network Coupons

While manufacturer and store coupons are fairly well-known and widely used, many consumers often overlook bank deals. Bank and payment networks (like Visa, American Express, or Mastercard) offer exclusive customer savings for thousands of retailers and merchants.

These special deals include online coupons making eligible purchases. Because these offers are tied to the credit or debit card network, using your card to make purchases on deal portals and coupon sites can help stack coupons more effectively when shopping online.

How to Stack Coupons Effectively

Effectively stacking coupons takes practice – especially when shopping in-store. According to stacking experts, here are some essential tips to help maximize savings when using multiple coupons, rebates, and discounts when shopping:

Things to Do:

  • Always read the retailer’s coupon policy to ensure you can stack multiple coupons or rebates
  • Check coupon expiration dates
  • Only use one store coupon and one manufacturer rebate if unsure about a store’s coupon policy

Things Not to Do:

  • Never try and use duplicate coupons on the same item when shopping in-store
  • Don’t expect a single voucher to be multi-use
  • Never copy coupons, as this may be considered fraud

What’s the Best Way to Stack Coupons Online?

Often, shopping online makes stacking coupons much more manageable. Online shopping portals are an excellent resource for combining offers and ensuring you get the best value on purchasing items.

Online portals and discount aggregator services make it easy to combine coupons from payment networks with retailer discounts – helping you maximize savings. Even better sites like BestCards Membership can help shoppers earn cash back bonuses for making purchases with eligible retailers – and even better than that, those same shoppers can earn even more rewards when they invite friends, and they make qualifying purchases.

And while Membership doesn’t require a credit card, users can maximize their savings even more with a rewards card – offering up to three ways to save (credit card rewards, payment network savings, and merchant coupons)!

Featured image by mohamed_hassan/ PixaBay

Is It a Good Time to Apply for a Travel Credit Card?

by Cory Santos
should you get a travel credit card

Last updated on August 23rd, 2023

Travel credit cards are a great option if you vacation or travel for work frequently. With the chaos that often comes with holiday travel, these cards offer several benefits and protections that can make flying, driving, and hotel life more manageable. Is this the year you should give in and finally get a travel rewards credit card? Here are a few reasons why the answer may be “yes.”

Should You Apply for a Travel Credit Card?

Holiday travel is never fun. Often, the process involves either long car trips, crowded airports, layovers, or sometimes a combination of the two. Given the continued chaos at airports worldwide, is now the right time for you to consider applying for a travel credit card? These rewards credit cards offer several attractive perks, many of which can save you time, money, and headaches.

Here are some circumstances in why it might be a good time to consider applying for a new travel credit card:

You Travel Often

Many travel credit cards offer rewards for points or miles that can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related purchases. Suppose you frequently travel for work or leisure. In that case, a travel credit card can be a great republish)y to earn rewards on travel-related expenses.

Many premium airline credit cards offer free flights or companion discounts on every cardmember anniversary. These cards frequently feature an annual fee of $95+ and require a spending minimum to reach the free travel – either as an award flight, a companion fare, or even lounge visit vouchers.

You Prefer to Use Points for Trips

In addition to earning rewards on flights and hotel stays, many travel credit cards offer bonus points or miles on other travel-related purchases, such as car rentals, cruises, and even dining out at restaurants.

Many of these cards also provide exceptional travel value thanks to 1:1 point transfers to leading airlines, hotel chains, and more. Most major banks offer transfers to leading carriers like JetBlue, Southwest, Delta, Air France, and more.

You Want Protections and Perks

Many travel credit cards offer added protections and perks that can be valuable on the road. These may include travel insurance, interruption and cancellation coverage, and concierge services. Some travel credit cards offer access to airport lounges and other exclusive perks.

Beyond perks, most travel cards come with a sign-up bonus. Several of these bonuses are equal in value to a free roundtrip flight. Plus, you will amass additional miles or points from your purchases to meet the threshold. Combine that with other purchases made during the current circumstances, and you’ll eventually have a significant stockpile of rewards ready for redemption.

American Express is currently providing some of the most lucrative sign-up bonuses in the credit card industry.

Things to Consider

A few things to consider before applying for a travel credit card include the annual fee and the interest rate. It’s essential to read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions of the card before applying. Additionally, compare different travel credit card options to find the one best fits your needs and spending habits.

A travel credit card can be an excellent option for individuals who travel frequently or want rewards on travel-related purchases. It’s critical to research and compares different options to find the card that best fits your needs.

Related Article: The Benefits of Using a Credit Card for Holiday Travel

4 Reasons to Get a New Business Credit Card

by Cory Santos
Here's why you shou;d consider getting a new business credit card

Last updated on August 15th, 2023

A business credit card can be a precious tool for any company. Here are four reasons why your business might need a new credit card:

Four Reasons Your Enterprise Should Consider a New Business Credit Card

Are you thinking of getting a new business credit card for your company? Here are four good reasons why a new card might be just the right idea:

Improved Cash Flow

Using a business credit card separates business expenses from personal finances, making tracking and managing your spending more manageable. This can help you maintain a healthy cash flow, allowing you to invest in your business and take advantage of opportunities.

Improving a business’s credit and cash flow can ensure its long-term success and stability. A strong credit score and healthy cash flow can open up new opportunities for the company, such as access to better loan rates and the ability to make larger purchases.

Enhanced Purchasing Power

Business credit cards provide access to higher credit limits and more flexible payment terms, allowing companies to make larger purchases or take on more significant projects. This can be especially useful if your business is growing or you need to invest significantly in equipment or inventory.

Credit cards, like the Ramp Card, provide companies access to up to 20X more capital, extended payment terms, and unparalleled software integrations to streamline finances – all for no annual fee. Another option, the Revenued Business Card Visa®, provides access to “Flex Lines,” which offers up to $100,000 in additional capital in as little as 24 hours.

More Rewards

Many business credit cards offer rewards and perks to help businesses save money and be more productive. These can include cash back on business expenses, discounts on travel, and access to business-focused tools and services.

Many premium business credit cards also offer travel protections and perks that can significantly improve business trips. Take the Business Platinum Card® from American Express, for example. Cardholders enjoy lounge access through Amex and Priority Pass, CLEAR® statement credits, and more.

Software Integrations and Simplified Record Keeping

Keeping business expenses can be time-consuming and tedious, especially if you use multiple payment methods. With a business credit card, all your business expenses are consolidated into a single statement, making it easier to keep track of your spending and prepare for tax time.

Perhaps no business card is better equipped for software integrations than the BILL Divvy Corporate Card. BILL (formerly Divvy) allows business owners to manage expenses and budgeting in an accessible, streamlined format. You can take advantage of easy dispute resolution, report drill-downs, simple reimbursements, spending notifications, instant categorization, and a two-step review process.

Summing It Up

Overall, a business credit card can be a powerful tool for any company. Using one can improve your cash flow, enhance purchasing power, enjoy more rewards and perks, simplify record keeping, and improve your credit score. If your business could benefit from a business credit card, it’s worth considering applying for one.

Related Article: Unique Features to Look for in a Business Credit Card

Featured image by mwitt1337/PixaBay

Tips for Choosing a Balance Transfer Credit Card

by Cory Santos
choosing a balance transfer credit card

Last updated on September 1st, 2023

Finding your ideal credit card is never easy. When existing debt is added to the equation, however, the task becomes even harder. Here are some helpful questions to consider when choosing your next balance transfer credit card:

What Should You Consider When Choosing a Balance Transfer Credit Card?

Before choosing your next balance transfer credit card, it is essential to ponder several questions to determine if a new credit card is right for you:

Do You Really Need a Balance Transfer?

The most important thing to decide before applying for a balance transfer is knowing if you really need to conduct a balance transfer. While a balance transfer sounds like a great idea to save money, these transactions typically are not free.

The average charge for a balance transfer is 3% of the total transfer amount. In some cases, the balance transfer fee may rise to 5%. That 5% amounts to a $150 charge if you’re moving a balance of $3,000, for example.

Before selecting a balance transfer credit card, always read the terms and conditions carefully. The fine print will inform you of the fees for balance transfers, cash advances, and anything else you may want to know regarding these types of transactions.  

When possible, opt for a credit card that charges no fees for balance transfers. However, keep in mind that these no-fee cards usually offer a shorter 0% intro APR on balance transfers than cards that charge a fee of 3% or more.

Is Your Credit Utilization Too High?

Credit utilization is one of the biggest impactors on your credit score. Your credit utilization – or the amount of available credit you actually use – accounts for 30% of a person’s FICO Score and 23% of what makes up a VantageScore. Too much credit usage can mean you are spending more than you can handle servicing the debts every month.

Use the below credit utilization calculator to determine how much of your credit you use:

How Long Do You Need to Pay Off Your Balance?

Deciding how long you’ll need to pay off any balance you plan to transfer is also critical. This consideration should include:

  • Your total balance
  • How much you can afford to pay towards the balance (excluding the minimum balance due)
  • The APR of your current credit card

Weighing this information against the introductory APR period of the cards you consider will better help you better decide the best option.

The same $3,000 balance example from above will take approximately 20 months to repay for someone who can afford a $150 payment on a 0% intro APR card with no balance transfer fees. Should they pay $250 per month, and that repayment window drops to 12 months?

What Happens After the 0% Intro APR Ends?

While no-interest introductory rates are great, they can’t last forever. What happens if you can’t repay your entire balance during that window?

Always be aware of the regular APR once any introductory offers end. According to the BestCards Average Credit Card APR Guide, the current average interest rate for a balance transfer card is 16.99%. However, keep in mind that this is an average – meaning many cardholders can expect an interest rate higher than 16.99%.

Summing It Up

Choosing a balance transfer card can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Take your time and carefully consider each option before applying – that way you know you’ve made the right decision for your needs. 

Sometimes a low rate isn’t as tempting as a lengthy 0% intro APR period, for example. Or, maybe you want to pay down a balance but also want rewards – with so many options available, there is likely a balance transfer or low rate credit card to suit you. 

Related Article: The Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards

Featured image by Jose Silva / Burst

US Bank Altitude Connect Adds Priority Pass Select

by Cory Santos
US Bank Altitude Connect Adds Priority Pass Select

U.S. Bank is making changes to the Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card. Starting in February, Altitude Connect cardholders enjoy complimentary Priority Pass Select membership at no extra cost.

U.S. Bank Adding Priority Pass to Connect

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® is a popular travel rewards card from U.S. Bank. The card earns up to 4X points on eligible purchases. It has several lifestyle benefits, including a $30 annual streaming credit, cell phone protection, and more.

Now U.S. Bank is looking to add additional value to the card to lure new applicants to the $95 annual fee credit card (waived for the first year). Beginning February 2, 2022, Altitude Connect cardholders enjoy complimentary Priority Pass Select membership.

U.S. Bank has alerted existing cardholders of the changes with the following message:

Effective 2/2/23, new travel protection and convenience benefits will be added to your Altitude Connect Card. Benefits include: Complimentary Priority Pass Select Membership. Trip Cancellation/Interruption and Trip Delay. 

What is Priority Pass Select?

Priority Pass Select is specially designed for customers who receive their membership through a bank. Select members have access to lounges and experiences in 95% of the world’s busiest airports, including hundreds across North and South America.

While the Connect probably won’t offer unlimited lounge visits, like ultra-premium cards, the Platinum Card, or the Chase Sapphire Reserve. Instead, expect the new benefit to be more akin to the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card. That card provides cardholders lounge access ten times per calendar year – a very generous benefit given that lounge trips are typically priced around $50 per guest.

About the U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature®

As mentioned, the U.S. Bank Altitude Connect earns up to 4X points on purchases. Here is how those rewards break down:

  • Earn 4X points on travel and gas station purchases
  • Earn 2X points on grocery stores, grocery delivery, dining, and streaming services
  • Earn 1X points on all other purchases

Here is what U.S. Bank considers a “streaming service”:

Disney+ Vudu Google Play Music
FandangoNOW YouTube Premium Pandora
Hulu Amazon Music SiriusXM
Netflix Apple Music Slacker Radio
Sling TV YouTube Music Spotify

Beyond points, cardholders also enjoy Visa Signature protections, a TSA Precheck or Global Entry statement credit every four years, a $30/year streaming credit, and up to $600 reimbursement if your cell phone is stolen or damaged when you pay your monthly cell phone bill with your card.

Related Article: Tips to Recession-Proof Your Finances

Featured image by jlaatz/PixaBay

The Best Travel Credit Cards

by Cory Santos
the best travel rewards credit cards

Last updated on April 17th, 2024

People travel for many reasons, so finding the ideal travel rewards credit card can be challenging. With so many options to choose from and endless variables, it can be tough to separate the best from the rest.  Never fear, here are our selections for the best travel credit cards of 2022:

At a Glance


Chase Sapphire Reserve®
The Platinum Card®
Sam’s Club® Mastercard®
Capital One® Savor®
Mastercard® Black Card™

The Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards of 2022

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Learn more about the Chase Sapphire Reserve® 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
$550, each authorized user: $75 per year Annual Fee

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

  • 21.74% to 28.74% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
  • 21.74% to 28.74% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
  • 29.49% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR

At a Glance

With the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card, luxury and travel rewards come together with this upper-tier card, which offers an attractive points system and includes a lengthy list of perks for any jet setter.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Member FDIC
  • Regular Purchase APR: 21.74% to 28.74% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
  • Balance Transfer APR: 21.74% to 28.74% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
  • Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • Cash Advance APR: 29.49% variable based on the Prime Rate
  • Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
  • Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
  • Annual Fee: $550, each authorized user: $75 per year
  • Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
  • Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
  • You travel often and want a card that provides worldwide value
  • You eat at restaurants frequently
  • You plan to use rewards for travel, which provides the best value for redemption
  • You want a card with no foreign transaction fees
Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Terms & Conditions
Learn more about the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Terms & Conditions

With the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, luxury and travel rewards come together seamlessly. Chase’s flagship credit card features a steep $550 annual fee (with another $75/year for each authorized user) – but packs plenty of bang for that buck.

Cardmembers earn 5X Ultimate Rewards points on air travel and 10X points on hotels and car rentals when booked through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® travel portal (immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually, more on that soon). They also earn 3X UR points on other travel purchases and dining, plus 1X on all other purchases.

If the points with the Sapphire Reserve are tasty, the 50% more value when using points for travel booked through the Chase travel portal is the icing on the cake. Even better, cardmembers enjoy $300 in annual travel credits, Priority Pass Select airport lounge access, and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®.  

Other features of the Chase Sapphire Reserve include a complimentary DashPass membership, Visa Infinite concierge, and 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express
Visit Card Site Rates & Fees
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
American Express Processing Network
$695 Annual Fee

The Platinum Card® from American Express

  • See Pay Over Time APR Regular Purchase APR
  • 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR

At a Glance

Luxury is always within reach when you use The Platinum Card® from American Express. This exclusive rewards card offers premium travel rewards and a host of additional perks for the savvy voyager. Uber Cash and complimentary lounge access are just a few of the more practical perks that lend ongoing value to Platinum Card members beyond the impressive signup bonus.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel
  • 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline
  • Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue on your Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®
  • VIP status and $200 Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the U.S. annually
  • Complimentary Gold status in Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors programs
  • Complimentary membership in premium car rental programs
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Audible, Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.
  • $179 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $179 back per year on your CLEAR® membership
  • $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $25 back each month on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax
  • Terms Apply
  • Regular Purchase APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
  • Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
  • Penalty APR: See Rates & Fees
  • Annual Fee: $695
  • Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
  • Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
  • You travel often and can take advantage of a myriad of benefits including access to airport lounges and Uber credits
  • you intend to sign up for Global Entry or TSA Pre?®
  • You prefer airline flexibility when redeeming points for travel
  • You’re likely spend $6,000 within the first six months as a cardholder to receive the card’s welcome offer
  • You’ll take advantage of exclusive events and experiences available only to Platinum cardholders
The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Rates & Fees
Visit Card Site Rates & Fees

Where the Sapphire Reserve emphasizes points, the Platinum Card® from American Express packs a punch with a dizzying array of statement credits. This exclusive rewards card offers premium travel rewards and a host of additional perks for the savvy voyager.

If you’re looking to upgrade your trip from start to finish, The Platinum Card won’t disappoint. The card provides Priority Pass Select access (like the Sapphire) – but tacks on Centurion Club access via the American Express Global Lounge Collection. Travelers also enjoy a $100 credit for Global Entry, or an $85 credit for TSA Pre✓® (whichever is charged to the card account first), and a $189 CLEAR statement credit. CLEAR® security fast pass.

Beyond airport perks, the Platinum Card’s travel and everyday statement credits provide over $1,500 in annual value. These credits include:

  • $200 airline incidentals credit for one airline of your choosing
  • $200 hotel credit for eligible stays in the Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection portfolios
  • $15/month in Uber Cash (and $20 in December)
  • $25/month Equinox credit
  • $12.95 Walmart+ membership rebate (when using the Platinum Card as the payment method)
  • $300 SoulCycle credit
  • $20 digital media/streaming credit
  • $100 Saks Fifth Avenue credits

Sam’s Club® Mastercard®

Sam's Club® Mastercard®
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

Sam’s Club® Mastercard®

  • 20.9% or 28.9% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
  • 20.9% or 28.65% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
  • 25.90% or 31.65% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR

At a Glance

The Sam’s Club® Mastercard® offers Sam’s Club members everywhere up to 5% cash back on gas purchases, 3% back on dining, and more – all for no annual fee. From Synchrony Bank, the card also features no foreign transaction fees, Mastercard’s near-global acceptance, and special savings when shopping at Sam’s locations nationwide.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • Earn 5% cash back on gas anywhere Mastercard is accepted (on first $6,000 per year, then 1%)
  • Earn 3% cash back on Sam’s Club purchases for Plus members. Club members earn 1% cash back
  • Earn 3% cash back on dining and takeout
  • Earn 1% cash back on other purchases at Sam’s Club and wherever Mastercard is accepted
  • No annual fee
  • Regular Purchase APR: 20.9% or 28.9% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
  • Balance Transfer APR: 20.9% or 28.65% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
  • Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 4% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • Cash Advance APR: 25.90% or 31.65% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
  • Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
  • Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
  • You’re a current Sam’s Club or Sam’s Club Plus member
  • You frequently purchase gasoline with a credit card
  • You do’t want to pay an annual fee or foreign transaction fee
  • You spend heavily on dining each month
Sam's Club® Mastercard®

Sam’s Club® Mastercard®

Terms & Conditions
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions

The Sam’s Club® Mastercard® won’t get you lounge access to upgraded suites at exclusive hotels. But if you are hitting the road on your travels, it can save you big money. The Sam’s Club® Mastercard® earns 5% cash back on gas station purchases anywhere Mastercard is accepted (on the first $6,000 per year, then 1% back after that). These impressive rewards make it one of the premier gas rewards credit cards on the market today.

The card also earns 3% cash back on wholesale club purchases and dining, making it ideal for pitstops on the journey. And suppose you really need to stock up before the trip. In that case, Sam’s Mastercard also earns accelerated cash back for Plus members on Sam’s Club purchases. The card earns 3% back on Sam’s Club purchases for Plus members, with regular members earning 1% back on Sam’s Club purchases. That 3% back takes the form of the 1% all Sam’s Club members earn on purchases and the additional 2% Plus members earn on qualifying in-club and Pickup purchases. All other purchases with the card earn 1% back wherever Mastercard is accepted worldwide.

Other notable features of the Sam’s Mastercard include no foreign transaction fees, Mastercard Zero Fraud Liability protection, free shipping at Sam’s Club, early shopping hours in-store, prescription savings, and more. The card also doubles as the accountholder’s Sam’s Club membership card.

Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card

Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit 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
Mastercard Processing Network
$95 Annual Fee

Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card

  • 19.99% – 28.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
  • 19.99% – 28.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
  • 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR

At a Glance

Make memories while funding future adventures with the Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card. This exclusive entertainment credit card boasts an unlimited 4% cash back on streaming, dining, and entertainment is a great card for couples, families, and social butterflies.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • Unlimited 4% cash back on dining, entertainment, and popular streaming services
  • Earn 3% at grocery stores
  • Earn 1% on all other purchases
  • Earn 8% cash back on tickets through Vivid Seats
  • Receive $9.99 statement credit after paying for Postmates Unlimited membership
  • Enjoy comprehensive, personalized assistance in dining, entertainment and travel— 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
  • Regular Purchase APR: 19.99% – 28.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
  • Balance Transfer APR: 19.99% – 28.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
  • Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: 3% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that we may offer you. None for balances transferred at the Transfer APR
  • Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
  • Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 3% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
  • Annual Fee: $95
  • Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
  • You want to earn an unlimited 4% cash back on streaming, dining, and entertainment, 3% at grocery stores, and 1% on all other purchases
  • You see yourself spending $3,000 within the first 3 months of opening the card to earn that one-time $300 cash bonus
  • You live for unique dining, entertainment, and sports experiences
  • You want complimentary food delivery membership through Postmates
Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card

Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card

Terms & Conditions
Visit Card Site Terms & Conditions

Vacations and business trips aren’t just about the journey. A great travel credit card helps you save money at your final destination – wherever that may be. The Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card is ideally-suited for these tasks thanks to its generous cash back rewards.

The Savor earns an unlimited 4% cash back on dining, entertainment, and popular streaming services like Apple TV, Hulu, Spotify, and more. Not only that, but the card also earns 3% back at grocery stores and 1% back on all other eligible purchases.

The entertainment features with the Savor can also help you save if taking in a concert or sporting event on your travels. The card earns a huge 8% cash back on tickets through Vivid Seats, helping you to pay down the cost of your journey – or to start planning your next escape!

Mastercard® Black Card®

Mastercard® Black Card®
Apply Now 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
Mastercard Processing Network
$699 ($249 for each Authorized User added to the account) Annual Fee

Mastercard® Black Card®

  • 19.74% to 27.74% Variable, based on your creditworthiness and other factors Regular Purchase APR
  • 19.74% to 27.74% Variable, based on your creditworthiness and other factors Balance Transfer APR
  • 29.99%. This APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Cash Advance APR

At a Glance

An exclusive and complete credit card, the Mastercard® Black Card® is a statement piece that offers a wide range of unique benefits not found anywhere else. Beyond a 2% redemption rate for airfare and 1.5% for cash back, the Black Card provides a full lifestyle experience that goes beyond just amassing points – and that more than makes up for its annual costs. Once approved, customers can expect 24/7 personalized concierge service, VIP discounts, and attractive memberships.

  • Best Benefits
  • Rates & Fees
  • Why Should You Apply?
  • Redeem at 2% value for airfare and 1.5% for cash back. Just 50,000 points will get you a $1,000 ticket on any airline or $750 cash back, issued as a direct deposit statement credit.
  • Earn 2X points on Airfare and Hotel reservations booked through LuxuryCardTravel.com. One point for every one dollar you spend for all other categories, earning points every time you spend.
  • $200 Annual Airline Credit: Receive up to $200 in annual air travel credits toward flight-related purchases, including airline tickets, baggage fees, upgrades and more.
  • $100 Annual Dining Credit: Get up to $100 in annual statement credits when you use your Luxury Card at qualifying restaurants.
  • Receive up to $120 reimbursment credit for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee. Global Entry includes access to TSA PreCheck® with no additional application or fee required.
  • 24/7 Luxury Card Concierge®: Exclusive to Cardmembers. Your busy life never stops, and neither do our Luxury Card Concierge agents. Enjoy around-the-clock lifestyle management and planning support tailored to your specific needs—and designed to save you time. Our personalized one-on-one service delivers solutions, suggestions and even surprises to make every day exceptional. Book the trip. Get the reservations. Score the tickets.
  • With your Luxury Card, enjoy complimentary access to over 1,700 airport lounges and travel experiences in more than 600 cities across 145 countries with Priority Pass™ Select . Access includes unlimited visits for yourself as well as your guests.
  • Black-PVD-Coated Metal Card and Made of Stainless Steel®: Beautifully crafted and exceptionally premium, Luxury Card is a statement piece designed to stand out in the most refined way. Weighing in at an impressive 22 grams, its stainless steel, contactless patented card design and metal construction raises the standard. Carry a card with distinction.
  • Exclusive Luxury Card Travel® benefits—average value of $500 per stay (e.g., resort credits, room upgrades, free wifi, breakfast for two and more) at over 3,000 properties. Receive protection benefits like trip cancellation and interruption, auto rental car collision waiver, travel accident and baggage delay. Cell phone protection for eligible claims of up to $1,000 each year. Plus additional World Elite Mastercard® benefits.
  • Annual Fee: $699 ($249 for each Authorized User). Terms and conditions apply.
  • Regular Purchase APR: 19.74% to 27.74% Variable, based on your creditworthiness and other factors
  • Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% introductory APR for the first fifteen billing cycles following each balance transfer that posts to your account within 45 days of account opening. After that, (and for balance transfers that do not post within 45 days of account opening) the APR will be 20.24% to 28.24%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors. This APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate.
  • Balance Transfer APR: 19.74% to 27.74% Variable, based on your creditworthiness and other factors
  • Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
  • Cash Advance APR: 29.99%. This APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate.
  • Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
  • Annual Fee: $699 ($249 for each Authorized User added to the account)
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 0% of each transaction in U.S. dollars.
  • Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $39
  • Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $39
  • You’re a frequent traveler who aims to earn rewards that can be redeemed for airfare at an unmatched rate
  • You’re looking to minimize your wallet via an everyday credit card that rewards on every redemption
  • You aim to stand out from the crowd with an expertly-crafted metal credit card weighing 22 grams
  • You’re seeking a dedicated 24/7 Concierge service offering personalized assistance to meet a variety of requests
  • You stay at high-end hotels and exclusive resorts that offer Cardmembers amenities, breakfast vouchers and resort credits
  • You’re interested in premium travel benefits and protections found in few competing credit cards
Mastercard® Black Card®

Mastercard® Black Card®

Terms & Conditions
Apply Now Terms & Conditions

The Mastercard® Black Card™ offers the best luxury benefits for a travel card at a lower price point. Luxury Card’s Black Card™ also features an annual fee significantly lower than the Sapphire Reserve and the Amex Platinum ($495 for the Black Card, vs. $695 for Amex and $550 for Chase).

Despite that lower price point, the Black Card packs a serious punch. The list of luxury perks is astonishing, including Priority Pass lounge access, airline credits, complimentary luxury gifts from leading brands, access to the Luxury Hotel Collection, no foreign transaction fees, and more. That doesn’t even mention the card’s award-winning Luxury Concierge service. All told, the card offers over $500 in hotel savings and credits – per stay.

Rewards with the Mastercard Black Card aren’t spectacular, but they provide solid value. The card provides 2% back in value for airline redemptions and 1.5% for cash back redemptions, making it a decent airline rewards card with exceptional perks.

Browse more of the “Best of” from BestCards

Featured image by john_Ioannidis/ PixaBay

Tips to Recession-Proof Your Finances

by Cory Santos
Tips to Recession-Proof Your Finances

Last updated on February 20th, 2024

With inflation showing little signs of slowing, Credit One Bank provides helpful advice on how to recession-proof your finances. Fears of a recession make now the ideal time to assess your financial health – here’s how:

Credit One Offers Tips to Recession-Proof Finances

Despite the Federal Reserve continuing to raise interest rates, inflation shows little signs of slowing, leading to fears of an impending recession. For most consumers, now is the ideal time to evaluate their financial well-being, including savings, access to credit, and debt.

“Reduced income is the greatest impact a recession can have on most consumers. Income could be reduced due to job loss, fewer assigned hours, lower commissions, fewer bonuses, or lessened investment income,” said David Herpers, Sr. Vice President of Digital Bank at Credit One Bank. “With the Fed indicating it will continue its largest interest rate hikes since the 1980s, there are savings and credit tips consumers should be taking advantage of today to prepare themselves for the unknown.”

How to Recession-Proof Your Finances

Recession-proofing your finances is a straightforward process that includes reducing fixed expenses, increasing your savings, and gaining access to additional credit if needed. Having the extra cash by canceling things that aren’t essential can add up to more than you might think. Take a close look at your monthly subscriptions or memberships to determine if they are necessary or just a “nice-to-have.”

Also, check that your savings accounts are working hard – and not just storing money in a low-yield account. Check out if your bank offers a high-yield bank account. These accounts can offer an APY (Annual Percentage Yield) of around 2% vs. the national average of 0.1%.

A rule of thumb is to have six months of income tucked away in savings available to access in times of need. Make sure to tuck part of your monthly paycheck into a personal savings account, not just a 401k or a 529 account.

Related Article: Free Trial Forgetfulness – How To Automatically Cancel Free Trials Before They Renew

Access New or Additional Credit

If you are stably employed, now might be the best time to access new credit. Having the extra opportunity for quick and available credit becomes increasingly crucial in the case of job loss, income reduction, or unexpected costs. As fears of recession loom, act now by adding another credit card to your wallet, guaranteeing flexibility in the future.

Evaluate Your Debt(s)

Knowing the interest, you pay on your loans is essential to making smarter financial decisions. Check the APR  on student loans, car payments, mortgages, and individual credit. As interest rates go up, the cost of borrowing follows. If you’re on any variable-rate loan, you might be able to lock in fixed rates for the future. Refinancing may offer more money back in your pocket and lower monthly payments.

Practicing good habits now will give you flexibility and confidence with your finances as talk of a recession and interest rate hikes intensify. Whether it is gaining access to additional credit through credit cards, refinancing a loan, or simply looking a little deeper at your current spending, recession-proofing your finances is possible for the everyday consumer

Related Article: Paying Off Debt – Debt Avalanche vs Debt Snowball

Featured image by luxstorm/PixaBay

Advertiser Disclosure

BestCards is an independent, Florida-based credit card comparison platform. Many of the card offers that appear on this site are from companies from which BestCards receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). BestCards does not include all card companies or all card offers available in the marketplace.