Modern Insights on Credit Cards

Discover the different types of credit cards and their benefits.

FEATURED ARTICLES

A man smiling while sitting on a couch holding an open box and a young child smiling looking through the contents

How the Purchase Protection Benefit Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company Works

Purchase Protection can help protect Covered Purchases made with your Eligible Card against accidental damage, theft and sometimes provide lost coverage for certain Eligible Card products for up to 90 days from the Covered Purchase date. Coverage Limits Apply.

Platinum AMEX credit card is laying on the table with two coffee cups

Annual Fee & Authorized User Fee – American Express Platinum

Want to know more about the annual fee for The Platinum Card®? Here’s an overview, plus a look at the Card’s abundance of travel and lifestyle credits, perks, and services.

A woman sitting at her desk with her laptop typing on a calculator holding papers

How Much Are American Express Membership Rewards® Points Worth?

American Express Membership Rewards® points values differ depending on how and where you redeem them. Find out what points are worth and redeem them wisely.

Someone checking their phone while in a store or restaurant setting

What Is a Statement Credit?

Learn what a statement credit is, how it works, and the different ways you can earn one, like through returns, rewards, or qualifying purchases

A person holding up their gold card to a handheld payment POS machine at a restaurant

A Complete Guide to Dining with the Amex Gold Card

Maximize your love of dining – find how you can access over $500 annually in value using the American Express® Gold Card. With benefits across dining and travel, Gold makes every experience more rewarding. Here’s how.

Someone smiling at a desk, looking at a piece of paper

What Does It Mean to Prequalify for a Credit Card?

Credit card prequalification is an easy way to help you see how likely you are to be approved for a credit card. Learn how prequalification works.

A smiling man and woman stand together in front of a car, highlighting the advantages of credit card rental car insurance.

The Benefits of Credit Card Rental Car Insurance

Learn how credit cards with rental car insurance work. See what may be covered, the benefits, and how to know if you need extra coverage when renting a car.

A Complete Guide to Dining with the Amex Gold Card

What Is a Statement Credit?

Learn what a statement credit is, how it works, and the different ways you can earn one, like through returns, rewards, or qualifying purchases

Woman is walking in an airport with a luggage while holding a cellphone

American Express® Green Card Benefits and Requirements

The American Express Green Card is available exclusively at Amex. Here’s how to get it – plus a rundown of its rewarding travel and dining benefits.

A young couple smiles at a table, engaging with a laptop, exploring options for American Express Hilton credit cards.

The Different Types of American Express Hilton Credit Cards

See how an American Express Hilton Credit Card could help you gain Hilton Honors elite status, earn Hilton Honors™ Bonus Points, and unlock other exciting benefits.

woman is sitting on the floor in front of a couch with laptop and looking at her credit card

‘Level Up’ Your Understanding of Amex Card Levels

American Express Card ‘levels’ are more like unique categories to match your spending style, from casual spender to luxury traveler – and everyone in between.

Couple is on the floor with pizza and laptop

American Express® Gold Card – Points & Rewards

With benefits across select dining and travel purchases and plenty of ways to earn and redeem Membership Rewards® points, plus flexible payment options – the Gold Card can reward your appetite for everyday life and more.

Woman looking at a laptop with a baby that's holding a phone sitting on her lap

American Express Cash Back Cards: How Reward Dollars Work

American Express offers cash back credit cards. Explore each card’s unique benefits, from cash back percentages to benefits and more.

How the Purchase Protection Benefit Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company Works

Woman is waiting for a car outside of the airport with luggage

How to Get a Free Checked Bag with a Delta SkyMiles® American Express® Card

Want to save on Delta baggage fees? Card Members can check their first bag free when using their eligible co-branded American Express Card to book a flight with Delta.

A person holds a smartphone and a credit card, illustrating the concept of a digital wallet for secure transactions.

What Is a Digital Wallet?

Digital wallets offer convenience, allowing you to make purchases using your phone. This article explores the benefits of digital wallets and how they work.

Annual Fee & Authorized User Fee – American Express Platinum

Want to know more about the annual fee for The Platinum Card®? Here’s an overview, plus a look at the Card’s abundance of travel and lifestyle credits, perks, and services.

Can You Pay Rent With a Credit Card?

Some landlords let tenants pay rent with a credit card. But it could mean extra fees and charges. See if paying rent with a credit card is a smart move.

Three women sitting on a couch laughing and sharing a bowl of popcorn

Platinum’s Elevated Lifestyle Benefits Can Help Make Every Day an Adventure

The Platinum Card® from American Express helps keep you inspired every day with its suite of elevated lifestyle benefits such as the $240 Digital Entertainment Credit, Global Dining Access by Resy, $200 Uber Cash, and more.

A person sitting at a table entering their credit card information online via their laptop

Choosing the Best Rewards Credit Card for You

The best rewards credit cards are the ones that suit your lifestyle and spending habits. Compare the best rewards cards to choose the right one for you.

person sitting on the couch, holding a credit card with a laptop on the lap

Changes in the Credit Card Landscape: Trends, Tech, and Spending

Credit card industry trends can help us learn about the changing landscape in terms of technology, reward offerings, and how people are using their cards.

A woman checks her luggage at an airport, highlighting the importance of TSA PreCheck® for Kids during travel.

TSA PreCheck® for Kids: What You Need to Know

You may not need to pay for TSA PreCheck® for minors if they are accompanied by an enrolled parent or guardian and on the same reservation. Some restrictions apply.

A man checks his phone while sitting at his desk

How and Why Your Credit Card APR May Change

Curious why your APR (Annual Percentage Rate) changed? There could be a number of reasons APR fluctuates. See some potential reasons for the change.

Family of four is hanging out in the kitchen

How to Get Cash Back From a Credit Card

If your credit card offers cash back rewards, you can generally can get cash back from it simply by making eligible purchases. Learn how cash back works.

A woman seated at a table, focused on her laptop, exploring tips for wisely using credit card benefits.

Credit Card Benefits: Get the Most Out of Them

Understanding how to use your credit card benefits is a part of maintaining healthy finances and helping you achieve your financial goals.

A driver being handed the keys through the window of a car

Do You Need a Credit Card to Rent a Car?

While you may be able to rent a car without a credit card, this will depend on the car rental company’s policies, and certain limitations may apply.

How Much Are American Express Membership Rewards® Points Worth?

American Express Membership Rewards® points values differ depending on how and where you redeem them. Find out what points are worth and redeem them wisely.

What Does It Mean to Prequalify for a Credit Card?

Credit card prequalification is an easy way to help you see how likely you are to be approved for a credit card. Learn how prequalification works.

couple sitting at a table in their kitchen looking at a laptop

Earn Rewards and Cash Back When Shopping Online

Explore the world of online shopping rewards and cash back programs. Learn how to earn money, discounts, and rewards while shopping online.

A cashier bags a mother and her child's groceries at the cash register of a store

Can You Buy Gift Cards with a Credit Card?

Discover how to purchase gift cards with a credit card. Read and learn to navigate the process for a smooth experience when buying gift cards.

What Is the American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts® Program?

The American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts Program (FHR) offers eligible Card Members a variety of exclusive perks and benefits at over 1,600 lavish properties worldwide.

American Express Delta Skymiles Credit Card in a hand next to a wireless pay device

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Benefits

From getting a head start on Delta’s Medallion® Status to earning new Resy and Rideshare statement credits – the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card offers these and more to help you unlock great travel experiences.

Two individuals seated at a table, engaged with papers and laptops, discussing financial strategies for 0% Intro APR credit cards.

Tips for Using 0% Intro APR Credit Cards to Borrow Money

Used responsibly, 0% intro APR credit cards can be a great source of inexpensive borrowing and can add to your financial flexibility. But it pays to read the fine print.

Father, mother and a child at the airport are waiting and smiling

What Are Delta Credit Card Benefits and How Do They Work?

Learn how Delta SkyMiles® American Express Card benefits can maximize every moment of your travel, from miles-boosting welcome offers to free checked bags and more.

Father and three children are hanging out in the room looking at the cellphone screen

Tips on How to Use Credit Cards for Financial Flexibility

Want to know how to use credit cards to increase your financial flexibility? Here’s how one credit card user has done it over the years.

Woman is sitting in the dentist chair, smiling while looking at a doctor

Should I Pay for Dental Care with a Credit Card?

There are different ways that you can pay for dental procedures. A few options include paying for dental care with a credit card, personal loans, and insurance.

Woman is shopping in the furniture store

Buy Now, Pay Later with Plan It® by American Express®

Buy now, pay later with Plan It, an Amex Card feature that helps give you more control by letting you split up large purchases into monthly installments with a fixed fee.

A man in an apron holds a cell phone, symbolizing modern budgeting tips with credit cards.

How to Save a Few Dollars Every Month with a Credit Card

You can save some money each month by maximizing credit card rewards and perks. Learn how cash back, partner offers, and other incentives can help.

Woman is giving a credit card to a person over the counter in the hotel lobby

American Express Platinum Priority Pass Select

Unlock access to select airport lounges with Priority Pass™ Select, available with the American Express Platinum Card® as part of the Global Lounge Collection.

Woman is using ATM outside in the street in daytime

How to Get Cash From a Credit Card

Wondering how to get cash from a credit card? Learn how to use a credit card in an ATM, along with some important considerations you’ll want to keep in mind.

A couple is sitting and smiling in front of a laptop

How Amex Helps You Protect Yourself Against Credit Card Fraud

American Express helps protect you from credit card fraud with its advanced fraud protection methods. Here are a few simple steps to keep you safe and alert.

Woman is using a laptop and holding a credit card in coffee shop

What Is an Authorized User on a Credit Card?

An authorized user is a secondary account holder added to a credit card account by the primary cardholder but isn't responsible for payments. Learn more in detail.

A man sitting at an outdoor table with his laptop holding and looking at his phone and credit card

How to Activate a Credit Card

Learn how to activate a credit card online, with the issuer app, or by phone, and choose the most convenient credit card activation method for you.

A woman examines her credit card while holding a cell phone, preparing to dispute a charge on her account.

How to Dispute a Credit Card Charge

You can dispute an erroneous or fraudulent credit card charge. Learn what steps you should take and see when you should go about disputing a charge.

Woman sitting on her couch looking at her tablet holding a credit card

What to Know About Credit Card Expiration Dates

All credit cards have expiration dates, but why? Here’s what to know about how long credit cards last, why they expire, and what happens after they expire.

Woman in a yellow hoodie sitting on the floor and looking at a cellphone while holding a credit card

6 Credit Card Red Flags to Watch Out For

To help find a card that’s a good financial fit, watch out for these six credit card red flags – like unnecessary fees and rewards that expire.

Woman is in the kitchen using her laptop

How to Check If a Website Is Legit

Wondering how to tell if a website’s legit? Here are some things you should look for. Learn how to make informed choices and protect personal information online.

A man wearing glasses intently observes a computer screen, highlighting the importance of identity theft monitoring.

What Is Identity Theft Monitoring?

Identity theft monitoring alerts you to suspicious activity that could otherwise go unnoticed. These services help you take action to prevent theft.

How to Activate a Credit Card

Learn how to activate a credit card online, with the issuer app, or by phone, and choose the most convenient credit card activation method for you.

Phishing Attacks: How to Recognize and Avoid Them

Phishing scams that aim to steal your information remain extremely common, but basic precautions can help you spot them and avoid falling for them.

6 Credit Card Red Flags to Watch Out For

To help find a card that’s a good financial fit, watch out for these six credit card red flags – like unnecessary fees and rewards that expire.

A man wearing glasses and a shirt is engaged in a phone conversation, emphasizing communication for fraud protection.

How to Use Text Alerts to Protect Against Fraud

Text alerts are a useful tool to keep financial accounts safe from fraud. Learn how to use them, and how to avoid being used by fraudsters.

A woman holding her credit card while looking at her laptop

Credit Card Fraud Detection

Learn how to protect yourself from credit card fraud, including website security, and warning signs to look out for. See what to do if you suspect fraud.

A woman at her desk, using a laptop and reviewing papers, prepares to report credit card fraud.

How to Report Credit Card Fraud

Learn how to report credit card fraud. See steps you can take to protect your finances and important things to consider when reporting credit card fraud.

A woman embraces an older woman while seated in front of a laptop, conveying warmth and connection between generations.

How to Protect Against Senior Fraud

Elderly fraud is on the rise as older adults shift online. Here are tips to protect against scams targeting seniors' finances and ensure their security.

Two women registering their credit card online via their tablet

How to Manage Internet Security Risks to Your Credit Card

Using credit cards online requires knowing how to protect yourself from cybersecurity risks. Most card issuers and merchants can help keep you safe.

Man smiling and sitting on his couch holding his credit card while looking at his phone

What Is a Credit Card Number?

Credit card numbers may seem random, but each digit serves a specific purpose, like identifying the credit card issuer, the card network, and more.

How to Dispute a Credit Card Charge

You can dispute an erroneous or fraudulent credit card charge. Learn what steps you should take and see when you should go about disputing a charge.

A man talking on the phone while typing on his laptop

Lost Credit Card? Here’s What to Do

It’s not always possible to find a lost credit card. The good news is that getting a replacement card is usually a simple, straightforward process. Here’s what to do.

A woman leans against a wall of a building while listening to music and using her phone

How to Prevent Identity Theft Online – and Off

Identity theft can be a costly hassle that affects millions of Americans. Here are 7 common identity theft techniques and related tips to help protect you from each.

How to Check If a Website Is Legit

Wondering how to tell if a website’s legit? Here are some things you should look for. Learn how to make informed choices and protect personal information online.

A man and a woman standing over a dining room table while looking over some papers

10 Things You Should Know About Identity Theft

Identity theft may be more common than you think. Here are 10 important things to know about identity theft, including how to prevent it and what to do if it happens.

What to Know About Credit Card Expiration Dates

All credit cards have expiration dates, but why? Here’s what to know about how long credit cards last, why they expire, and what happens after they expire.

A couple walks down through with bags after shopping

Protecting Yourself from Gift Card Scams

Knowing the types of gift card scams and tips to avoid them can help keep you safe from this increasingly common form of fraud.

Rose Gold American Credit Card in a hand of a person in front of a table full of food

Amex Rose Gold: How to Make the Most of It

The American Express® Gold Card lets you choose the Card design that fits your style while earning Uber Cash and benefits across dining and travel.

Two friends check their credit score online via their laptop while sitting on their couch and holding their dog

Find the Right Credit Card by Credit Score

Your credit score can have an impact on which credit cards you get approved for. See factors to consider when choosing a credit card for your credit score.

Two women are siting outside, smiling and looking at the laptop

How to Apply for Instant Approval Credit Cards

With an instant card number, you could start using your card instantly after approval. See how instant approval credit cards work.

Someone transferring a credit card balance on a banking app

What Is a Balance Transfer Credit Card?

A balance transfer credit card may help you pay down debt and could help you to positively manage credit. See the pros and cons of balance transfers.

A mother holding her daughter while they both look at a tablet in front of Christmas tree

How to Strategically Use a Credit Card for Holiday Shopping

Planning your holiday shopping list? Learn how using the right credit card for holiday shopping can help you boost seasonal savings and earn rewards.

A young person holding multiple cards in their hand as though considering them.

Secured vs. Unsecured Credit Cards: What’s the Difference?

Learn the key differences between secured vs. unsecured credit cards, how they impact your credit, and which option is best for your financial goals.

Secured vs. Unsecured Credit Cards: What’s the Difference?

Learn the key differences between secured vs. unsecured credit cards, how they impact your credit, and which option is best for your financial goals.

A woman sits at a desk with a dog, reviewing her first credit card application with a focused expression.

How to Get a Credit Card for the First Time

Start your financial journey! Learn how to get a credit card for the first time with our guide featuring great credit cards for beginners and helpful tips.

What Is a Balance Transfer Credit Card?

A balance transfer credit card may help you pay down debt and could help you to positively manage credit. See the pros and cons of balance transfers.

How to Apply for Instant Approval Credit Cards

With an instant card number, you could start using your card instantly after approval. See how instant approval credit cards work.

Amex Rose Gold: How to Make the Most of It

The American Express® Gold Card lets you choose the Card design that fits your style while earning Uber Cash and benefits across dining and travel.

Find the Right Credit Card by Credit Score

Your credit score can have an impact on which credit cards you get approved for. See factors to consider when choosing a credit card for your credit score.

Holiday Shopping Trends and Predictions

Explore popular holiday shopping trends, including immersive digital experiences, local business support, and an ever-increasing rise in mobile shopping.

A woman lying on her couch while using her phone

What's the Best Credit Card for Entertainment?

The best credit card for entertainment is a card that aligns with your lifestyle, rewarding you for entertainment purchases. See how entertainment cards work.

Benefits of Credit Card for Gas & Airline Miles

Choosing between a gas credit card or an airline miles credit card can be simple for some and challenging for others. Here are the benefits of each.

Man is sitting in a room, looking at a tablet

Annual Fee vs. No Annual Fee Credit Cards

Using a credit card with no annual fee could help you save money, but cards with an annual fee may offer better rewards like travel perks or cash back.

group of friends laughing and eating at a restaurant

How to Maximize Your Dining Rewards Credit Card

The best dining rewards credit card depends on your spending habits and dining preferences. Choosing the right card can help you maximize your dining benefits.

An older couple looking over a tablet at a table in their living room

Credit Cards for Seniors

See credit cards for seniors, and see how you can find a credit card that meets your needs. Choose from cash back cards, travel rewards cards, and more.

A man sits on a couch with a laptop and credit card, exploring options for 0% credit cards and their benefits.

How Does 0% APR Work?

What does 0% APR mean? See how to use a 0% APR (Annual Percentage Rate) credit card to save on interest during the introductory period.

Two men seated at a table, engaged with a laptop, discussing the differences between credit and debit cards.

Debit Card vs. Credit Card: Important Differences

See the difference between debit and credit cards. Review the pros and cons of debit cards vs. credit cards and see which one’s right for you.

How to Strategically Use a Credit Card for Holiday Shopping

Planning your holiday shopping list? Learn how using the right credit card for holiday shopping can help you boost seasonal savings and earn rewards.

Close-up of a person sitting and holding a credit card

Finding the Best Cash Back Credit Card

There are many benefits of cash back credit cards. Explore the different types of cash back cards to find the best credit card that fits your needs.

A young couple joyfully smiles and laughs together while viewing something on their cell phone, enjoying a lighthearted moment.

The Benefits of No Annual Fee Credit Cards

Choose the best no annual fee credit card for you by exploring the available benefits, including money-saving rewards like cash back and travel points.

A woman wearing headphones sits comfortably in an airplane, ready to enjoy her journey with cash back or travel rewards.

Cash Back vs. Travel Rewards: Which May Be Best for You?

Cash back rewards and travel points are two enticing benefits to consider when searching for the “best” credit card for you. Here’s what to know.

Woman using her laptop at home, representing the shift towards flexible work arrangements in a cozy setting.

Can You Buy a Money Order With a Credit Card?

Learn whether you can buy a money order with a credit card. See how to go about buying a money order and what you should know if you're planning to buy one.

A woman looking at papers while holding her glasses to her mouth

Balance Transfer Cards: How to Make the Most of Them

Learn how you can get the most out of your balance transfer credit card. See tips to help you save on interest charges and regain control of your finances.

A man in a striped shirt using a laptop on a sofa with a dog and a smartphone nearby.

Different Types of Credit Cards

Understand how different types of credit cards cater to specific needs. Choose from travel rewards, cash back, and more to find a credit card that’s right for you.

Person is paying at the register for a grocery with the American Express Gold Delta Credit Card

The Different Types of Delta Credit Cards

Compare a variety of Delta SkyMiles® American Express Credit Cards to find the Card with the right travel benefits for your lifestyle.

A woman examines a television display in a store, contemplating her options for a potential purchase.

Do You Need a 0 Interest Credit Card?

Zero interest credit cards can help you save money, but make sure you choose wisely. Follow these rules to avoid penalties in the future.

A person using a card to make a purchase in a shop

What Happens When You Max Out a Credit Card?

See what happens when you max out a credit card, including the impact on your financial health and credit score. See how to handle a maxed-out card.

A bearded man holds a credit card, emphasizing the importance of the CVV number for secure transactions.

What Is a CVV?

Your CVV code is the 3 or 4-digit number on your credit or debit card that adds security. Learn more about how a CVV code works and tips for keeping yours safe.

Man and woman smiling while looking at information on their mobile phones

Send & Split®: How It Works

Did you know American Express Card Members can send money or split purchases with other Venmo or PayPal users right from the American Express® App? Here’s how it works.

How to Increase Your Credit Limit

Learn how you can increase your credit limit and boost your credit score. Explore the different pros and cons of credit limit increases.

Someone holding a credit card, using it to make a payment

What Is a Good APR for a Credit Card?

Understand what a good APR for a credit card is, how it’s determined, and ways to secure a lower interest rate on your credit card.

What Is a Chargeback?

Credit card chargebacks are temporary credits from your issuer, typically when there’s a transaction issue. Learn how they protect you and affect merchants.

Someone holding a credit card and talking on the phone

How to Lower Your Credit Card Interest Rate

Discover strategies on how to lower your credit card interest rate. Learn how a lower rate may help reduce your monthly payments and save money over time.

Person working on a laptop with dog by his side

How to Get a Credit Card

Looking to apply for a credit card? See how to get a credit card and factors to consider before applying for a credit card to make an informed decision.

A person presents a credit card at a cash register, demonstrating the use of contactless payment technology.

What is a Contactless Credit Card?

It looks like a sideways Wi-Fi icon, but what is the contactless symbol on a card, and what makes contactless credit cards so secure? Find out today.

A woman sitting on the edge of her living room couch doing paperwork

How Does Credit Card Interest Work?

Credit card interest is how you’re charged to borrow money. Understanding how credit card interest works can help you to plan ahead with your credit card payments.

Woman is reading a credit card statement at the table

How to Choose the Right Credit Card

Which credit card is right for you? See popular card features and benefits and learn how you can discover a credit card that's right for your needs.

Two colleagues collaborate over a laptop in a modern office, discussing credit card definitions and types.

What Are Credit Cards and How Do They Work?

Before you apply for a credit card, you'll want to know which options are available and how they work. Learn more about the different types of credit cards.

Couple is smiling in the kitchen and calculating from the paper

How to Pay a Credit Card Bill

It’s important to pay your credit card bill on time each month. Learn more about how to pay your credit card bill and tips to avoid fees and interest.

What Is a Good APR for a Credit Card?

Understand what a good APR for a credit card is, how it’s determined, and ways to secure a lower interest rate on your credit card.

What Is a Chargeback?

Credit card chargebacks are temporary credits from your issuer, typically when there’s a transaction issue. Learn how they protect you and affect merchants.

A calendar with a credit card application reminder on it

How Often Can I Apply For a Credit Card?

Learn how often you can apply for a credit card, how hard inquiries affect your credit score, and how long you should wait between applications.

Someone making an online credit card payment via a smartphone.

Guide to Paying Your Credit Card Bill Online

Learn how to pay your credit card bill online using your issuer’s website, mobile app, or autopay, plus tips to keep your credit in good standing.

How to Lower Your Credit Card Interest Rate

Discover strategies on how to lower your credit card interest rate. Learn how a lower rate may help reduce your monthly payments and save money over time.

How to Increase Your Credit Limit

Learn how you can increase your credit limit and boost your credit score. Explore the different pros and cons of credit limit increases.

Woman is working on her laptop in a coffee shop

What Is Cash Back and How Does it Work?

How does cash back work? Cash back rewards let you earn a percentage of your purchases back. Learn how cash back credit cards work and maximize your rewards.

A woman in glasses is working on her laptop, highlighting the importance of credit cards and their routing numbers.

Do Credit Cards Have Routing Numbers?

Credit cards don’t use routing numbers like checking and savings accounts do. Instead, credit card transactions use credit card numbers.

A person holding a credit card while making a payment in a store

How Do You Swipe a Credit Card Properly?

Learn how to swipe a credit card for smooth transactions and to help prevent errors. See other ways that you may be able to use your credit card as well.

Elderly couple is using the credit card on their laptop

How to Read Your Credit Card Statement

Your credit card statement contains your overall balance, minimum payment due, and due date. See how your credit card statement helps you manage your account.

A woman sits at her desk writing in her notebook with her laptop open next to her

How Fed Rate Changes Impact Your Credit Card Interest Rate

When the Federal Reserve changes interest rates, credit card interest rates adjust too. Learn how the Fed’s interest rate policy influences credit cards.

A man sits in a chair with his laptop in his lap

What is a Finance Charge on a Credit Card?

The definition of a finance charge is an interest charge or other fees associated with using a credit card. Learn more about credit card finance charges and how to avoid some of them.

A woman holding a credit card, ready to make a purchase, with a focused expression on her face.

How Do Credit Cards Work?

Learning how credit cards work can help you to make an informed decision when applying for one. It can also help you use them to your best advantage.

A woman sits holding her credit card while looking at her phone.

10 Common Reasons Why a Credit Card Can Be Declined

Explore the most common reasons for a declined credit card, such as travel, credit limits, errors, or fraud, and learn how to protect your account.

A woman using her laptop while sitting at her desk

Is Closing a Credit Card With a Zero Balance a Good Idea?

Closing a credit card with a zero balance could impact your credit score. See the pros and cons of closing a zero balance credit card.

A person holding a credit card while researching on a laptop or device about how long does a credit card balance transfer take

How Long Does a Balance Transfer Take?

A balance transfer can take between two days and six weeks to complete. However, this will vary, depending on the financial institution and its process.

A man and woman collaborate on a laptop in a cozy coffee shop, immersed in their work and enjoying the atmosphere.

What Is Provisional Credit?

A provisional credit is a temporary credit applied to your account while a dispute is investigated. Its permanence depends on the outcome of the investigation.

A woman sits at her dining room table while holding her baby in one hand and looking at her phone in the other

Should You Open Another Credit Card?

Learn when to apply for a new credit card and why a new credit card won't do good in certain situations. Make informed choices about your credit cards.

A man and woman seated at a table, engaged with a laptop, discussing pending transactions and their implications.

What You Should Know About Pending Transactions

Pending transactions are authorized charges that haven’t been fully processed yet. Learn how long pending transactions typically take to process.

A woman sitting in a library writes down notes in a pad while using her laptop

What Should I Use My Credit Card For?

A credit card offers a convenient way to make everyday purchases. See what you can use your credit card for and tips for responsible credit card use.

A woman stands in front of a store, holding a credit card, contemplating her purchase and the payment process involved.

How Does Credit Card Processing Work?

Learn how credit card processing works. See what's involved and learn what happens behind the scenes within just seconds of making your transaction.

A mother with a toddler in her arms is filling her car with gas at a service station.

How Do Gas Credit Cards Work?

Gas credit cards offer many benefits, but how are they different from other credit cards? Find out if gas credit cards are the best choice for you.

A woman sitting on her couch is about to input her credit card information online via her laptop

Should You Cancel Unused Credit Cards or Keep Them?

Find out whether you should close unused credit cards for a healthier financial future. Learn why experts sometimes advise keeping these accounts open.

A person sitting on a couch is holding a credit card and researching how to upgrade it

How to Upgrade a Credit Card

Upgrading a credit card can help you access better features and rewards. Learn how to upgrade your credit card.

A person tracking a credit card at a card reader

Can You Track a Credit Card?

You can’t track the physical location of a credit card. However, you may be able to monitor your purchase history online or with your card issuer’s app.

Credit Card Skimmers: Tips to Spot and Avoid Them

Discover how to identify and avoid credit card skimmers to help protect yourself from fraud. See what you can do if your card has been skimmed.

A young couple on a couch, engaged with a laptop, exploring effective credit card management strategies together.

How to Use Credit Cards

See tips on how to use credit cards responsibly for money management, to build healthy credit habits, and as a simple way to enhance your lifestyle.

Someone looking at a few different credit cards in their hand

How to Do a Credit Card Balance Transfer

Learn how to do a balance transfer on a credit card. See steps to take when doing balance transfers, important considerations, and mistakes to avoid.

An older teenager holding a credit card, looking confident and ready to start using it responsibly

Credit Cards for Teens

Discover the best types of credit cards for teens and how they can help your teenager build financial skills. Get tips for responsible credit card use for teenagers.

Someone holding their credit card while sitting at a desk using their laptop

How to Cancel a Credit Card

Thinking of closing your credit card? See how to close your credit card responsibly and important considerations, like the potential impact on your credit.

Someone holding their credit card while browsing on their phone

Can I Get Credit Cards With No Deposit?

Discover how to get credit cards with no deposit, including options for unsecured cards. See alternatives to consider as well as tips for building credit.

A happy person looking at their new credit card

How Long Does It Take to Get a Credit Card?

See how soon can you get a new credit card, including application and delivery. Find tips to help speed up the process to get a new credit card sooner.

Man in a suite is sitting in the office and using a calculator and computer

Statement Balance vs. Current Balance: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the difference between the statement balance and the current balance on a credit card can help you to manage your payments.

A couple looking over papers at a table with an open laptop

Can You Overpay a Credit Card?

An overpaid credit card can result in a negative balance and shrink what you owe on your next statement, but it won’t boost your credit score or credit limit.

A woman sitting at a table with a coffee and notebook holding up and looking at her phone and credit card

7 Factors to Consider When Comparing Credit Cards

Learn what to consider when comparing credit cards, including rewards, fees, and interest rates. See how you can make an informed decision before applying.

Man is looking at a laptop and holding a credit card in a renovation room

Do I Have to Pay My Credit Card in Full Every Month?

Paying your card balance in full keeps interest and debt at bay, but choosing to pay over time can afford financial flexibility when paying off major purchases.

A teen sits on a boardwalk by a lake looking at her phone while holding her credit card

How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Credit Card?

Wondering at what age you can get a credit card? In order to apply for a credit card, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old.

Man sitting on an arm chair typing on his phone

What Is a Credit Card Annual Fee?

The benefits and rewards of a credit card can be worth more than the annual fee. Discover if paying a credit card annual fee is worth it for you.

A person is doing research on a laptop while holding a credit card to find out if balance transfers are worth it

Is a Balance Transfer a Good Idea?

A balance transfer could help you save on interest. However, if you don’t have good credit, or know you’ll struggle with payments, it may not be a good option.

A woman working from home, using a calculator and a laptop, with papers and a phone on the table.

Credit Card Fees and How to Save on Them

Credit card fees may include annual fees, cash advance fees, late fees, and more. Learn about common credit card fees and how to save on them.

A man and woman review paperwork together in a kitchen, discussing credit card payment strategies.

What Is the Minimum Payment on a Credit Card?

Learn what a credit card minimum payment is, how it works, and how it’s calculated. See what happens if you only make your card’s minimum payment.

Two women reviewing credit card balance paperwork on a laptop, engaged in discussion and analysis.

What Is a Credit Card Balance?

A credit card balance is the total amount that you owe your credit card issuer. Learn what a credit card balance is and how it’s calculated.

A person using their debit card to make a purchase at a shop

Can a Debit Card Be Used as a Credit Card?

Whether you select the credit or debit option when making a purchase, the funds will still be taken from your account. See whether it impacts your credit.

A person looking at a credit card while making a phone call.

How to Change Your Name on Your Credit Card

Learn the steps involved in changing your name on your credit card after a name change, as well as the typical documentation required and the general process.

Many card issuers make it possible

to be approved for a credit card –

and even start using it – within minutes.

Learn More >

EXPLORE TOPICS BY LIFE EVENT

The material made available for you on this website, Credit Intel, is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal, tax or financial advice. If you have questions, please consult your own professional legal, tax and financial advisors.