16 best credit cards in September 2024
Published 12:38 PM EDT, Fri June 7, 2024
What is the best credit card? That question has more than one answer because the best credit card for you depends greatly on your needs and financial goals. You may be looking for a card that offers flexible rewards for travel, cash back to offset expenses or even a long introductory 0% annual percentage rate (APR) to save money on interest. Or if you’re a beginner, a starter credit card available to those with limited credit might be the best fit.
Whatever your reason for opening a new credit card, you’ve got plenty of options. We’ve compiled a list of the best credit cards by category to help you narrow down your choices.
We receive compensation from our partners for Featured Offer placements, which impacts how and where their offer is displayed.
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards? Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Our team of credit card experts used a data-based approach to review dozens of cards in different categories, evaluating their rewards, benefits, fees, APRs and standout features. We selected 16 credit cards that scored highly based on our weightings in various categories. Read our full methodology below.
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Chase Sapphire Preferred? Card: Best card for travel rewards beginners
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Chase Sapphire Reserve?: Best for travel spending
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Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best premium travel credit card
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The Platinum Card? from American Express: Best for luxury travel perks
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The World of Hyatt Credit Card: *Best hotel credit card
The information for the The World of Hyatt Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
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Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant? American Express? Card: Best premium hotel credit card
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AAdvantage? Aviator? Red World Elite Mastercard?: *Best airline credit card
The information for the AAdvantage? Aviator? Red World Elite Mastercard? has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
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United Club? Infinite Card: Best premium airline credit card
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U.S. Bank Cash+? Visa Signature? Card: *Best cash back categories
The information for the U.S. Bank Cash+? Visa Signature? Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
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Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card: Best for flat-rate cash rewards
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Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card: Best 0% APR credit card
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Wells Fargo Reflect? Card: Best balance transfer credit card
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Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for college students
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The Blue Business? Plus Credit Card from American Express: *Best business credit card
The information for the The Blue Business? Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
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Ink Business Preferred? Credit Card: Best for business and travel expenses
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Discover it? Secured Credit Card: *Best for bad credit
The information for the Discover it? Secured Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
All information about The Blue Business? Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.
Chase Sapphire Preferred? Card
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Chase Sapphire Reserve?
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
The Platinum Card? from American Express
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
The World of Hyatt Credit Card
*The information for the The World of Hyatt Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant? American Express? Card
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
AAdvantage? Aviator? Red World Elite Mastercard?
*The information for the AAdvantage? Aviator? Red World Elite Mastercard? has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
United Club? Infinite Card
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
U.S. Bank Cash+? Visa Signature? Card
*The information for the U.S. Bank Cash+? Visa Signature? Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Wells Fargo Reflect? Card
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
The Blue Business? Plus Credit Card from American Express
*The information for the The Blue Business? Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
All information about The Blue Business? Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.
Ink Business Preferred? Credit Card
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Discover it? Secured Credit Card
*The information for the Discover it? Secured Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Our picks at a glance
| Annual fee | Welcome bonus | Best for | Standout feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Chase Sapphire Preferred? Card
| $95
| 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel?
| Travel rewards beginners
| Flexible rewards and transfer partners
|
Chase Sapphire Reserve?
| $550
| 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠
| Travel spending
| Annual travel statement credit
|
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
| $395
| 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening
| Premium travel
| Lower annual fee than other premium cards
|
The Platinum Card? from American Express
| $695
| 80,000 Membership Rewards? points after you spend $8,000 on purchases within the first six months of account opening (Terms Apply)
| Luxury travel benefits
| Airport lounge access and statement credits
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The World of Hyatt Credit Card * The information for the The World of Hyatt Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. | $95
| 30,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening, plus up to 30,000 more bonus points by earning 2 bonus points per dollar spent in the first six months on purchases that normally earn 1 bonus point on up to $15,000 spent
| Hyatt hotels
| Annual free night certificate
|
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant? American Express? Card
| $650
| 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first six months of card membership (Terms Apply)
| Marriott hotels
| Dining statement credits and annual free night
|
AAdvantage? Aviator? Red World Elite Mastercard? * The information for the AAdvantage? Aviator? Red World Elite Mastercard? has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. | $99
| 60,000 bonus miles after your first purchase and paying the $99 annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days of account opening
| American Airlines and Oneworld airlines
| Free first checked bag on domestic American Airlines itineraries
|
United Club? Infinite Card
| $525
| 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
| United and Star Alliance airlines
| United Club airport lounge access
|
U.S. Bank Cash+? Visa Signature? Card * The information for the U.S. Bank Cash+? Visa Signature? Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. | $0
| $200 rewards bonus after spending $1,000 on eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening
| Cash back categories
| Customizable 5% bonus categories
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Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card
| $0
| $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months
| Flat-rate cash rewards
| 2% cash rewards on purchases
|
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
| $0
| 20,000 miles after spending $500 on purchases within three months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
| 0% APR
| Flexible travel rewards and intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
|
Wells Fargo Reflect? Card
| $0
| N/A
| Balance transfers
| Ultra-long intro 0% APR
|
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
| $0
| $50 cash bonus once you spend $100 on purchases within three months from account opening
| College students
| Straightforward rewards earning and no foreign transaction fee
|
The Blue Business? Plus Credit Card from American Express
*
The information for the The Blue Business? Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
| $0
| 15,000 Membership Rewards? points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first three months of account opening
| Small businesses
| High earning rate on the first $50,000 in purchases each year
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Ink Business Preferred? Credit Card
| $95
| 90,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening
| Business and travel expenses
| High welcome bonus offer
|
Discover it? Secured Credit Card * The information for the Discover it? Secured Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. | $0
| Cashback Match?: Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year
| Bad credit
| No credit score required to apply
|
All information about The Blue Business? Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.
Why get a credit card?
- To build your credit score: Opening and using a credit card responsibly can increase your credit score. Showing lenders you’re a trustworthy borrower by paying your card on time each month can go a long way toward building good credit.
- To earn rewards: Many credit cards come with a substantial welcome bonus you can get after meeting a minimum spending requirement. Plus, these cards can earn points, miles or cash back for your everyday purchases. The best card for you will have an earning structure that complements your spending habits, such as earning bonus rewards at gas stations, restaurants or supermarkets.
- To save money on interest: Credit cards with zero interest on balance transfers or purchases for a promotional period can save you money on interest while you focus on paying off your balance. With the average credit card APR sitting at over 20% per Federal Reserve data, you could realize substantial savings with a 0% interest card offer.
- To get valuable benefits: Credit card benefits vary by card, but the best credit cards come with built-in perks that can protect your purchases, give you peace of mind when you travel and make your flights and hotel stays more comfortable. These money-saving features can make credit card annual fees easier to swallow, too.
- To give you flexibility and security: Credit cards give you the ability to spend if you don’t immediately have cash on hand for a purchase, but with that convenience comes the responsibility of paying back what you borrow. With a credit card, you’ll also get better fraud and liability protections than with a debit card or cash.
How a credit card works
The vast majority of Americans have at least one credit card in their wallets. But what exactly are credit cards? They are revolving lines of credit that allow you to make purchases without using physical cash.
When you pay with a credit card, you’re borrowing money from the bank, credit union or other financial institution that provided your card, known as the card issuer.
Whether you’re paying in person or online, your card details travel along a behind-the-scenes information highway set up by credit card networks. Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover are the four big names in the credit card payment processing space (the last two also issue cards, serving a dual function). In a matter of seconds, a merchant could receive approval or denial for the transaction.
Credit cards have revolving credit limits, which reflect the maximum amount of debt you can carry at one time. If your credit limit is $1,000, you can spend up to $1,000 on the card. If you spend $200 on the card, you will have access to $800 of your credit limit until you pay off the $200.
Each month, you must make at least a minimum payment, which is usually a percentage of the outstanding amount you owe. If you carry a balance — meaning you do not pay off the full amount you charged to the card before your bill is due — your issuer will begin to charge interest on the unpaid amount.
Your interest rate, also called your annual percentage rate, is usually variable, which means the cost of borrowing can go up or down based on broader economic conditions. Credit cards may have different APRs for different situations, including a purchase APR, a balance transfer APR and a cash advance APR.
A credit card is not the same as a charge card, which generally requires that the statement is paid in full at the end of each billing cycle and often does not come with a set spending limit.
Types of credit cards
Before you dive in and apply for a credit card, you should have an idea of your credit score and what you hope to achieve with the card. Some issuers offer preapproved credit cards, which don’t guarantee approval but give you a good idea of whether your application will be successful.
You’ll find credit cards for just about every type of consumer, and depending on the credit card, you’ll get different benefits and rewards.
Rewards credit cards
As the name implies, rewards credit cards allow you to earn something in return for the purchases you make. These are the cards you want to consider if you’re looking to stockpile miles for your next vacation or stash cash back to bring down your credit card bill.
Rewards credit cards fall into four general categories:
- Cash back credit cards: These cards earn cash or cash equivalents (like statement credits) as a percentage of each purchase you make. The best cash back credit cards earn at a high rate on all purchases and/or reward you with bonuses in certain categories, such as gas, groceries or dining.
- Flexible points cards: Cards that earn points you can redeem in multiple ways are the most versatile. Depending on the card, redemption options may include travel, gift cards, cash back and merchandise. Many of the best travel credit cards fall into this category, earning transferable points — think Chase Ultimate Rewards?, American Express Membership Rewards, Citi ThankYou? Rewards and Capital One miles. With eligible cards, you can move points or miles to airline and hotel partners to book award travel.
- Airline credit cards: If you’re loyal to a particular airline, opening an airline credit card can make a lot of sense. These cards earn miles in the carrier’s frequent flyer program and often come with day-of-travel benefits such as free checked bags and priority boarding — and some premium cards even include airport lounge access or elite status in the airline’s loyalty program.
- Hotel credit cards: Co-branded hotel credit cards from chains such as Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton and IHG earn points you can redeem for free nights. These hotel-branded cards are best suited for brand loyalists, typically offering automatic elite status and bonus points on stays. Sometimes, you’ll get a free night just for renewing the card.
Balance transfer cards
Carrying a balance on a high-interest credit card can make paying off your debt difficult (and frustrating). The best balance transfer credit cards allow you to consolidate credit card debt and tackle it without paying interest for a set period, meaning all of your payments go toward the principal (as long as you make at least the minimum payment each month). You’ll typically have to pay a fee to move other card balances to your new card, but this fee can be well worth it for the interest savings.
0% APR credit cards
The best balance transfer credit cards offer 0% promotional APRs. Credit cards with zero interest on purchases and/or balance transfers for a set time can be a lifesaver if you’re unexpectedly stung by a large expense or want to pay off a big purchase over time. As with balance transfer cards, as long as you make at least the minimum payment each month, you won’t be charged interest for the duration of the 0% APR offer.
Credit-building cards
If your credit score is less than perfect, you still have credit card options — from starter credit cards for beginners to cards that are geared toward those with bad credit. Opening a credit-building card and using it responsibly can help you build — or rebuild — your credit score. And, over time, a higher credit score can open the door to better financial opportunities, such as lower mortgage interest rates.
Secured credit cards
Secured credit cards are a kind of credit-building card, and require an upfront deposit that typically acts as your credit limit and provides insurance to the issuer if you fail to pay your bill. Secured credit cards can be a good option if you have limited or bad credit. Some cards also review your account after a period of time and may return your deposit and upgrade you to an unsecured account.
Student credit cards
College students can get their financial journey started on the right foot by opening a student credit card. Some student cards allow you to apply with limited credit, and they can even earn rewards. You won’t typically find extra frills or big welcome bonus offers on these cards, but they’re a great starting point for building your credit score with responsible use.
Business credit cards
Small business owners can earn rewards for their business expenses when they have one of the best business credit cards. Many of the best options come with perks and protections that can translate into big savings. You don’t need a formal business structure or even a full-time venture to be eligible to apply for a business credit card, either. Side gigs such as freelancing, driving for Uber or reselling online can all qualify you for a business card.
How to apply for a credit card
Applying for a credit card is a relatively straightforward process. It’s easiest to apply online, but many banks also allow you to submit your application in a branch or by phone. You’ll need to provide details such as your name, address, phone number, Social Security number (SSN) and income. For business credit cards, you’ll be asked for additional details about your business.
How many credit cards should I have?
There’s no ideal number of credit cards to have. What’s best for you depends on your financial goals and habits, credit score, and ability to juggle several cards at once. If you prefer simplicity and don’t want to keep track of multiple due dates and rewards programs, one or two cards might be the best fit for you. But if you’re looking to maximize rewards on every purchase and use points for high-value redemptions such as first-class flights and luxe resort stays, having a range of cards in different programs might be more your speed.
If you’re new to credit cards, start slow. It can be tempting to go all-in on credit card rewards when you see huge redemptions for luxury travel on travel blogs and social media. But until you get the hang of using credit cards responsibly and build a long-term strategy, take it easy.
Credit card issuers, networks and co-brands, explained
What’s in a credit card name? Knowing a card’s issuer, payment network and, potentially, co-brand can be a little confusing for beginners, especially if the card doesn’t have a descriptive name. Here’s the difference between these three important terms:
- Credit card issuer: This is the financial institution that provides the card and lends you money when you make a purchase with it. Your issuer can be a bank (such as Chase or Bank of America), credit union (such as Navy Federal or PenFed) or fintech company (such as SoFi or Chime). American Express and Discover are issuers, too, but they also act as payment networks.
- Credit card payment network: A credit card network acts as a go-between — when you pay for a purchase with your card, the merchant sends the transaction details to the network, which then transmits the transaction to the issuer. In the US, the four major credit card networks are Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. Credit card networks charge merchants a small percentage of the transaction (known as an interchange fee or swipe fee), which is why some businesses strongly prefer cash payments or don’t accept cards on certain networks.
- Co-branded credit card: Co-branded cards are offered by credit card issuers in partnership with another company or organization (often a store brand, airline or hotel). You’ll usually see the partner’s name on the card, and any card rewards are typically with the partner’s loyalty program. For example, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless? Credit Card * The information for the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless? Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. earns Marriott Bonvoy points, but it’s issued by Chase on the Visa network.
If you’re not sure of your card’s issuer or network, take a look at the card. The network is indicated by the Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Discover logo on the front or back of your card. The issuer may also include a logo or smaller print with contact information (such as a phone number and website address). And, if it’s a co-branded card, the partner brand’s name and/or logo are usually prominently displayed on the front of the card.
When you apply for a card online, you’ll typically do so on the issuer’s website, even if the original card advertisement is on the co-brand partner’s site. The network is usually mentioned in the terms and conditions or displayed on the card’s image.
Making the most of your credit card
You’ve done your research, applied and been approved for a card. It’s exciting when that new piece of plastic — or metal — arrives in the mail, but before you dive into using it, you’ll want to keep in mind a few general guidelines:
- Don’t spend more than you can afford: When you pay with a credit card, you’re borrowing money from the issuer that you’ll have to pay back. The temptation to overspend is real, especially if you’re new to credit. Treat your credit card like a debit card to avoid getting into debt, and if you don’t trust yourself to do so, a credit card may not be for you.
- Make payments on time: Your credit card issuer will send you a statement each month with a payment due date. Be sure to pay your credit card bill on time, even if it’s just the minimum payment — otherwise, you could be subject to a late fee and/or penalty rate. Plus, late payments can negatively impact your credit score.
- Pay your balance in full: If you only make the minimum or partial payment, the remaining balance will carry over and you’ll be charged interest (unless you’re taking advantage of a 0% APR offer). Interest can add up quickly and make it very difficult to pay off the debt. Plus, interest will typically wipe out the value of rewards you’ve earned, so, again, treat your credit card like a debit card to avoid this trap.
- Keep your credit utilization rate low: Your credit utilization rate measures the percentage of your credit line you’re using. You should aim to keep your credit utilization below 30% on each of your cards and across your credit lines. A higher utilization rate can signal to lenders that you’re struggling with finances.
- Maximize bonus categories: Cards that earn rewards often have bonus categories that award extra points, miles or cash back when you make eligible purchases. Remembering to use the right cards in the right categories can make a big difference in your rewards earnings. For instance, the Chase Freedom Unlimited? earns 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel?, 3% back on dining and drugstores, and 1.5% back on other purchases.
- Take advantage of benefits: It pays to read up on your card’s perks and benefits to ensure you’re not missing out. If your card comes with cell phone protection or travel insurance, for example, be sure to use the card for these purchases to take advantage of your benefits. Some cards offer statement credits for eligible spending, too.
Methodology
Our money and data analytics teams evaluated hundreds of credit cards in various categories to arrive at our top picks for 2024. The methodologies we used varied depending on the type of card — for example, in choosing the best balance transfer credit cards, the duration of the zero-interest period was a major driver in our rankings. But for the best travel credit cards, rewards earning and travel-related benefits got a heavier weight. Star ratings on this page come from the relevant associated ranking. For example, the Sapphire Preferred earned 4.2 stars in our best travel cards rankings.
To arrive at each card’s star rating out of five in each of our methodologies, we assessed factors such as:
- Annual fees: Some of the top credit cards charge an annual fee, especially premium rewards cards with lots of benefits. We looked at each card’s perks to determine if the annual fee is worth it. That said, no annual fee cards tend to get a leg up.
- Welcome bonuses: Many cards come with a welcome bonus of points, miles or cash back after meeting a spending requirement. We assessed the value of each bonus based on points valuations from travel website The Points Guy, and considered it in many of our rankings.
- Other benefits: Some cards have built-in protections such as an extended warranty on purchases or cell phone coverage. Other benefits include statement credits toward eligible purchases, complimentary memberships or discounts.
What didn’t make the cut
There are a seemingly endless number of credit cards on the market, and our list highlights the best for different use cases in 2024. Many other cards are ideal for various situations but didn’t make our list. Here are a few of our favorites:
- American Express? Gold Card: This card is ideal for foodies and topped our list of the best grocery credit cards. It earns 4X Membership Rewards? points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year; Earn 4X Membership Rewards? points at US supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases; Earn 3X Membership Rewards? points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com; Earn 1X points on other eligible purchases.
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: If you’re looking to earn travel rewards but don’t want to fuss with lots of bonus categories, this card is a solid choice. It earns 2x miles on most purchases (except hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, which earn 5 miles per dollar) and comes with a manageable $95 annual fee.
- Chase Freedom Flex? * The information for the Chase Freedom Flex? has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. and Chase Freedom Unlimited?: These no annual fee cards earn valuable Ultimate Rewards points and are ideal if you’re just starting out and don’t want to commit to an annual fee just yet. You won’t have the ability to transfer points to partners, but you can redeem points for travel booked through Chase, cash back, gift cards and more.
- Citi Strata Premier? Card * The information for the Citi Strata Premier? Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. : We rank this as the best Citi credit card for its generous earning rates (3x points on air travel, hotels, restaurants, gas stations, EV charging stations and supermarkets) and ability to transfer Citi ThankYou? points to airline and hotel partners.
- Airline and hotel co-branded cards: We’ve highlighted just four of the top airline and hotel credit cards in this guide, but there are dozens more to consider. If you have a favorite airline or hotel chain, consider co-branded cards that earn rewards in their loyalty programs and offer perks like free checked bags or automatic elite status. For example, American Express issues four Hilton credit cards and seven Delta credit cards with different benefits and annual fees. With many co-branded cards, there are even options for small businesses.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Banks may consider different things when deciding to approve you for a credit card, including your credit report, income and other factors. To improve your chances of getting approved, applying for cards that fit your credit profile is a good starting point. For example, if your credit score is in the fair range (a FICO score of 580 to 669), you won’t have much luck applying for a credit card for excellent credit. Familiarizing yourself with issuer-specific application restrictions (such as the Chase 5/24 rule) is also important to avoid wasting time applying for cards you aren’t eligible for.
The best credit card rewards to earn depend on what you want to achieve. If free or cheap travel is your main goal, it’s hard to go wrong with cards that earn transferable rewards such as Chase Ultimate Rewards? points, Citi ThankYou? points, American Express Membership Rewards? points or Capital One miles. For the most flexibility, cards that earn cash back are great, but you won’t have the potential to get outsized value from your rewards.
No single credit card is best for everyone — the right credit card for you is the one that meets your financial needs and goals. That said, our top pick for travel rewards beginners is the Sapphire Preferred, and it’s a great option for flexibility because you can redeem rewards for cash back as well.
A credit card’s interest rate, or annual percentage rate (APR), is the cost to borrow money if you don’t pay your balance in full by the due date. APRs vary by card, and some cards will charge different APRs based on customers’ credit profiles. A card may also charge different APRs for various types of transactions. For example, the purchase APR (the interest rate on new purchases) may be lower than the cash advance APR (the interest rate for withdrawing cash directly from your card). Your card may also offer an introductory 0% APR on purchases and/or balance transfers for a set period of time.
The decision to cancel a credit card requires some consideration because closing a credit card may hurt your credit score. It can make sense to cancel a card if the annual fee is a pain point for you or if you don’t like the benefits and rewards the card offers. But before you pull the trigger on canceling, consider alternatives such as asking to switch to a no annual fee card offered by the same bank — this will preserve the credit line and history and usually won’t impact your credit score. And there’s no harm in calling the bank to see if you can get a retention bonus or statement credit to help offset the fee.
Additional reporting by David McMillin.
To view rates and fees for The Platinum Card? from American Express, please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant? American Express? Card, please visit this page.
All information about AAdvantage? Aviator? Red World Elite Mastercard?, Chase Freedom Flex?, Citi Strata Premier? Card, Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®, Discover it? Secured Credit Card, Marriott Bonvoy Boundless? Credit Card, The Blue Business? Plus Credit Card from American Express, The World of Hyatt Credit Card and U.S. Bank Cash+? Visa Signature? Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.
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This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended and should not be understood to constitute financial, investment, insurance or legal advice. All individuals are encouraged to seek advice from a qualified financial professional before making any financial, insurance or investment decisions.
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