Category Archives: Credit Cards

No credit checks for a card – Opt for these cards in 2023

Can you get a credit card with no credit checks? Yes, it’s actually possible with the neo-banks credit cards to rebuild credits.

Credit cards offer a credit line for a borrower. It is a debt product that helps a borrower use a credit facility from the issuing bank. Credit cards do a credit check for the borrower before issuing a credit card. If you have fair or bad credit, getting a hard credit check might further affect your credit. You can opt for credit cards with no credit checks. 

These credit cards do not put a hard inquiry on your credit score. Instead of relying on the traditional credit score such as FICO, they rely on the financial history of a borrower. They use proprietary algorithms to assess the creditworthiness of card members. They then issue a credit card with a limit for the user. Like any other credit card, paying on time can help build long-term financial health as well as traditional credit history. 

Use cases for credit cards with no credit checks

These credit cards are best suited for people with no credit history or fair credit history. People with bad credit history may find it difficult to rebuild their credit. Instead of relying on touts or credit-building companies, they can either apply for secured credit cards. Another, option available is to use these credit cards which do not affect the credit score.

These credit cards are issued by neo-banks or new-age banks. Unlike traditional banks, which rely on FICO scores or credit scores from credit bureaus. These neo-banks build sophisticated algorithms to determine credit worthiness of members. They rely on your banking transactions, payment histories, and other financial histories to define your credit line. 

Best examples of credit cards with no credit checks

Let’s now dive into some of the credit cards available in the market today, which require no credit checks. 

TomoCredit Worldelite Mastercard

no credit checks
TomoCredit Worldlite Mastercard

Fees: None

APR: None

Rewards: Tomo doesn’t offer any rewards to users for now.

In a nutshell: TomoCredit does not rely on the credit score to calculate the creditworthiness of a member. They ascertain the same based on their unique algorithm.

The spending limit on this credit card varies from $100 – $10,000. A user has to be pre-approved before they can get this credit card. If you are declined, you can’t reapply for Tomo credit card.

TomoCredit helps improve the credit score of card members. Additionally, they report to all three major US credit bureaus.

As this card has no requirement for a credit score, it is great to build the same. This is a great card for people with poor credit scores.

Tomo requires you to connect your banking account with their system. Once, they run their algorithm on your financial history to assign you a credit limit.

Members have to make a full payment of their dues at a pre-determined payment cycle. This payment cycle can be weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. If you don’t pay your bills on time Tomo doesn’t charge you any interest but freezes your account.

Chime Credit Builder Secured Credit Card

no credit checks
Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa Credit Card

Fees: None

APR: None

Rewards: Chime credit builder visa credit card doesn’t offer any rewards for the users.

In a nutshell: The Chime Credit builder secured credit card is a Visa credit card issued by Stride Bank. Further, this credit card has no annual fee or interest rate.

Additionally, the chime credit card has no minimum requirement for a security deposit. Though, the best feature of this credit card is that it doesn’t require a credit check to apply for it.

Although, for qualifying for this credit card you require a Chime credit builder account. Cardmembers can deposit their funds directly to their Chime credit builder account. Against this direct deposit, they can use their credit card to make everyday purchases.

Further, members can pay their dues by using the money in the credit builder account. Building good credit habits and on-time payments will help users build their credit scores over time. Chime credit builder could also be a good financial product for a beginner as well. Even non-USA citizens can apply for this credit card. This could also help them build their credit score in the USA.

OpenSky Secured Visa Credit Card

no credit checks
OpenSky Secured Visa Credit Card

Fees: OpenSky Secured Visa credit card charges a low $35 annual fee to card members.

APR: None

Security Deposit: Low-security deposit starting from $200 and can go up to $3,000.

Rewards: 

In a nutshell: OpenSky Secured Visa credit card is a secured credit card. This credit card starts as a secured credit card. But, a user can improve their credit score through good financial habits. Once, they improve their credit score they can upgrade to an unsecured card in 6 months. OpenSky reports to all 3 major credit bureaus in the USA. 

Cardmembers can start with a low-security deposit of $200 and a maximum of up to $3,000. Once they deposit this security amount, their credit card is approved for usage.

Members can use the credit card to make normal everyday purchases. In order to, provide a boost to their credit scores, they should try and keep their credit utilization under 30%. Further, they can start paying their payments in full or at least minimum dues to help rebuild credit. 

8 Best credit cards with $0 annual fees – A complete guide

No one likes to pay the annual fees of a credit card. People try their best to get away with not paying credit card fees. $0 annual fees credit cards offer some of the best rewards to the user with the perk of no annual fee.

Our list of some of the best credit cards with $0 annual fees

  1. Rewards Credit  Card – Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card
  2. Travel Credit Card – Travel Rewards from Bank of America
  3. Student Credit Card – CapitalOne SavorOne Rewards Card
  4. Best Credit Card for People with Fair Credit – CapitalOne Platinum Mastercard 
  5. Secured Credit Card – DiscoverIt Secured Credit Card
  6. Credit Cards with 0% APR offer – Citi Simplicity Credit Card
  7. Credit Card for Rent Payments – Bilt Mastercard Credit Card
  8. Business Credit Card – Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Credit card

Best Rewards Credit  Card – Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card

$0 annual fees
Chase Freedom Flex

Fees: Chase Freedom Flex credit cards charge $0 in joining and annual fees

Intro Rewards: This credit card offers a $200 bonus on a spend of $500 in the first three months of the card approval. It also offers a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on balance transfers and purchases.

Rewards: Freedom Flex offers 5% cash back on purchases from grocery stores, gas stations, and select online merchants. Further, it also offers 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

In a nutshell: Chase Freedom Flex Card offers excellent rewards on everyday purchases categories. For example, groceries, gas, and online merchants. Though, it also offers 5% cash back on travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards. This card also offers a 3% cash back on dining at restaurants and drugstore purchases. For all the other purchases, there is a cashback of 1%.

Cash back never expires on this card. This card also offers Zero Liability protection and purchase protection. Further, other additional offers and benefits are available from Mastercard. 

Travel Rewards from Bank of America

$0 annual fees
Bank of America Travel Card

Fees: $0 in Annual fees, a 3% fee on the balance transfer, and $0 foreign transaction fees

APR: 0% APR offers for 18 months 

Rewards: Customers can earn 25,000 bonus points and a $250 travel or dining statement credit value. In order to, qualify for this offer they have to spend at least $1,000 in the first 3 months of opening the new card account.

In a nutshell: This credit card also offers excellent travel rewards with 3 points earned for every $2 spent on purchases. Customers get the flexibility to redeem points for a statement credit. They can also pay for travel and dining purchases made on the card through rewards. Further, there are no end dates of the points expiry on this card and there are no blackout dates.

Additionally, existing Bank of America customers receive higher bonus rewards. Bonus rewards depend on their Preferred Rewards tier with the Bank. For example, a preferred customer gets more points.

Best Credit Card for People with Fair Credit – CapitalOne Platinum Mastercard 

fair credit
CapitalOne Mastercard

Fees: This credit card is available with $0 in annual fees. It also offers $0 foreign transaction fees. 

Joining Rewards: This credit card doesn’t offer any joining rewards.

Rewards: Mastercard offers $0 Fraud Liability if the card is either lost or stolen. Capital One has a tool to monitor the credit profile of a user. Card members get unlimited access to their credit score CreditWise from Capital One

In a Nutshell: This is one of the best credit cards for members with Fair credit. This card automatically increases the credit limit of the user over time. They can consider increasing the credit limit starting in as little as 6 months.

CapitalOne takes into account payment history patterns to raise the limit. Finally, this is a great credit card for a starter person looking to build credit.

Capital One SavorOne Rewards for Students

$0 annual fees
CapitalOne SavorOne Student Rewards

Fees: This credit card charges no annual fee and no foreign transaction fee to their users.

Rewards: Card members earn unlimited 3% cash back on multiple categories. For example, the rewards are for dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and at grocery stores. One-time $50 bonus on spend of $100 in first 3 months of card opening.

In a nutshell: Students from universities, community colleges, or other higher education institutions can apply for this card. This card helps students build their card history over time. Students receive a complimentary Uber One membership and 10% off on Uber and UberEats orders. They also receive unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

Best Secured Credit Card – DiscoverIt Secured Credit Card

$0 annual fees
DiscoverIt Secured Credit Card

Annual Fees: $0 

Minimum Security: $200

In a nutshell: DiscoverIt Secured credit card requires a minimum $200 refundable deposit and offers the credit lines equivalent to the deposit. This card provides 2% cashback on fuel and restaurant and 1% cashback on other purchases. Discover also offers unlimited cashback matches for the first year. 

Meanwhile, if a customer has a good payment history of six months, they release the deposit. This credit card also reports to the three major bureaus and helps build a credit score. This card offers one of the fastest six months upgrades to an unsecured credit card. Customers have to ensure a timely payment across their credit cards and on-time payment history. 

 Citi Simplicity Credit Card

Citi Simplicity Credit Card

Introduction Balance Transfer APR: 0% Intro APR for 21 months for balance transfers. Additionally, 0% intro APR for all new purchases for the first 12 months.

Regular APR after the Introductory period: Once the introductory period is over, a variable APR of 18.49% – 29.24% is charged. This APR will be on the creditworthiness of the customer.

Rewards: Citi Simplicity credit cards do not offer any rewards. This credit card is not meant to be a rewards credit card.

Fee: Citi simplicity credit card doesn’t charge any annual fees, late fees, or penalty fees.

Other Fees: Intro fees of 3% of balance transfer fees (least of $5) for the first 4 months of credit card account opening. After the Intro period, 5% of balance transfer fees (subject to $5). 3% of foreign transaction fees are applicable on foreign transactions.

Pros and Cons of this card: Citi Simplicity credit card is one of the best 0% APR credit cards. As this credit card offers a 0% introductory offer for all new purchases for 12 months. Customers can also use it for making big purchases. They can then pay the amount over a year.

Though this credit card does not offer any rewards, it offers the best balance transfer period of 21 months. Additionally, it offers 12 months of 0% introductory offer on new purchases.

 Best Credit Card for Rent Payment – Bilt Mastercard Credit Card

BILT Mastercard

Fees: This credit card charges $0 in Annual fees and foreign currency conversion fees

APR: 20.24% – 28.24% of variable APR

Rewards: BILT MasterCard lets the cardmembers earn points on paying rent. This card provides a 1% reward for paying the rent. This credit card does not charge any transaction fees. There is a limit to the total 50,000 points which members can earn from rent.

Pros of this Card: Bilt Mastercard offers 2x points on travel purchases. Card members earn points on flights, hotels, rental cars, and cruises. In order to qualify, the travel is to be booked directly with airlines, hotels, and car rental agencies. 

The card also offers the members 3x points on dining. On the rest of the purchases, the card offers 1 point. All the expenses on the 1st day of every month offer double the rewards. Members get 6x points on dining, 4x on travel, and 2x on other purchases. Further, rent payments on the 1st do not qualify for this offer. 

Bilt has been ranked as one of the most valuable reward points by Bankrate. It has been ranked above American Express cards and Chase Rewards cards.

Bilt offers up to $5,000 reimbursement for a non-refundable passenger fare. If for any covered reason the trip is interrupted or canceled. Bilt also offers reimbursement for expenses incurred on delayed trips over 6 hours. Covered reasons include Weather, aircraft breakdown, or air traffic control delays. In order to, qualify for this offer the card members need to book the entire trip on the Bilt Mastercard. 

This card also offers Auto Rental Collision Damage waiver for any rental car charged on the card. BILT MasterCard offers better points as a rent or travel card. 

Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards credit card

$0 annual fees
Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards

Fees: This credit card charges $0 annual fees.

APR: Introductory 0% on purchases for the first 9 billing cycles. Once, the intro APR offer ends a Variable APR that’s currently 15.99% to 25.99% will apply.

Rewards: Card members earn a $300 statement credit after they make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of the account opening.

Pros and Cons of this card: Firstly, credit card members earn 3% cash back in the category of their choice. For instance, gas stations, office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom & wireless, computer services, or business consulting services. Next, this card offers 2% cash back on dining purchases.

Card members earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Customers can also earn up to 75% more cash back on every purchase. But to qualify they need to have a business checking account with Bank of America. They need to also qualify for the highest Preferred Rewards for Business tier for the best rewards available.

Credit Card declined – Reasons and remedy to help you

We all face a dilemma sometimes when our credit card declined in the middle of a transaction. This could be an embarrassing situation if you are using your credit card to purchase a service. Imagine having a great lunch at a restaurant and putting in your credit card for payment. The server informing that your credit card declined to pay.

A credit card may decline due to a number of reasons. In order to, avoid the heartache of handing over a credit card and facing a declined card, we recommend checking a few things beforehand. It’s always good to enable notifications from credit card providers. Also, enable the notification service from your mobile or cell phone to get a notification alert. 

Credit cards may decline to pay in case of using an expired card, foreign transactions, large payments, and some cases incorrect data input.

Balance exhausted or Credit limit reached

The most common reason for a credit card to decline is overspending or shooting the credit limit. Every credit card comes with a credit limit, which is pre-set by the bank. Further, this credit limit defines how much a user can shop or use the card for a purchase. If a user hits the limit on his credit card. Consequently, if they try to purchase or use a credit card beyond this limit, the transaction will fail.

Do not spend too much money or have a large outstanding balance on the credit card. Always, keep your balance under the defined credit limit. If you need help managing credit card debt, do read our best tips to manage credit card debt.

Sometimes, you might have put an automatic payment like a utility bill or tax payment on your credit card. If that transaction hits your credit card, it may take 2-3 days to appear in the credit card summary. The credit limit immediately reduces to factor in the impending transaction. Further, if you hit the limit of the card and try to make any transaction the same may be declined. 

Otherwise, if you have made a payment on a credit card to restore your balance, give at least 2-3 business days for the amount to settle in the credit card. Don’t expect that the balance will be immediately restored. Consequently, the balance of a credit card is increased only after making a payment.

The Credit card is expired leading to the card declined

Every credit card comes with an expiry date on the front of the card. Sometimes we might miss that a credit card has expired and may try to use it. An expired credit card will be declined. 

Additionally, banks and credit card companies cancel expired cards. As the same is no longer valid in their systems, holding an expired credit card is like holding a piece of plastic.

Swiping the credit card

Using credit cards outside the USA

New credit cards disable the option of foreign transactions by default. Before you can use a credit card for a foreign transaction, you have to enable the same. You can enable foreign transactions from the website or the mobile app of the bank. Alternatively, you can reach them over call to enable the same. 

Secured credit cards or basic credit cards are not available for foreign transactions. These cards do not allow foreign transactions at all. 

Card declined on making an unusually large purchase 

Credit cards may decline a usually large purchase on your credit card. They may suspect a large sum on your credit card is a fraud or theft transaction and may decline the same.

Say you have a credit card with a $5,000 limit. Usually, you make small transactions (under $500) with this credit card. You did a large purchase of day $4,000 on your credit card. This unusually large transaction may flag off risk systems. The bank may decline this transaction.

The Credit card is not in use for a long time

If you are not a frequent credit card user or if you have multiple cards, you may not use a particular card for long. In such a case, the credit card company or the bank may restrict transactions on the bank. This is to prevent unauthorized use of the credit card.

If the bank has disabled the credit card, the easiest way is to call the bank or reach through other channels to activate the credit card. 

Entering incorrect credit card details in case of an online transaction

Always check twice before hitting the Pay button in an online transaction. It’s very easy to fill in the credit card details incorrectly in the payment details while shopping online. Especially, if you are using a mobile device to make a payment, say on amazon.com or an airline website the credit card declined may be due to entering incorrect details more often. 

Some credit cards have dual-factor authentication, wherein you may have to enter an OTP (or a one-time password). This OTP may be in a form of a numeric code sent to a cell phone or an email id. Always, double-check the details as well as the OTP.

Things to keep in mind to prevent the credit card declined

We all can be a little proactive and keep a close tab on our credit cards. This would help us navigate any payment trouble or card declined scenarios.

Keep a sufficient balance on the credit card

Always keep a sufficient balance or credit limit on your credit card. It is also a best practice to maintain a good credit score to keep the overall credit utilization ratio below 30%. Read more to know about some of the other factors which help to keep a good credit score.

Online Shopping

If you are fully utilizing your credit card limits every month, it would be difficult to keep track and you may face a transaction decline due to credit limit. 

Opt-in for notifications services for your credit card transactions. Credit card companies provide an option to send you reminders if you are hitting your credit limit or max allowed balance.

Manage your credit limit to keep your balance below the same

Do not overshoot the credit limit of your credit card. Ideally, keep the credit utilization ratio below 30%. This will help keep the credit score of the user healthy. High utilization of credit cards may put a dent in the credit score.

Also if you are making a usually large purchase on your credit cards, do inform the bank or card issuer beforehand. They will honor a valid transaction if it is within your credit limit. In case, you fear that you may shoot the limit. Do call them and request credit limit enhancement. Alternatively, make a part payment to restore your credit limit or balance.

Although, credit cards do allow increasing the credit limit temporarily. Enquire from your bank for the facility of over-the-credit limit access. Though, you may have to pay a one-time fee ranging from $35 – $49 to enhance this limit. Although, this credit limit does not get added to your overall credit limit. Your credit card will restore the original credit limit as soon as you pay off the bills.

Check beforehand doing international transactions

Enable foreign currency or international transactions before using your card internationally. Also if you have to make payments in foreign currency online, ensure that international transactions are available. 

credit cards declined
A plane

Customers can enable the foreign transaction from the issuer’s website or mobile app. Alternatively, they can also call the issuer bank for enabling foreign currency transactions.

Keep a note of the last date or expiry date of the card

Always note the credit card’s expiry date. Credit card companies or issuing banks will reach out to you before the card’s expiry date. Ensure that your contact details such as email address, home address, and mobile phone numbers are up to date. Normally, they will reach you through the number or email registered with them. If any is changed, do update them with the bank.

If you are not using a credit card. Another good practice is to cut the older physical credit cards. Cancel the older credit cards with the issuers.

Keep using your credit card

If you have lots of credit cards, keep rotating the cards and use other cards. Normally, people keep one primary credit card for transactions and one secondary credit card as backup. 

A good practice is to cancel cards not used frequently. Additional credit cards do not add any value but may affect your overall credit score. To know the best practices to build a credit score.

How Credit Cards actually work – a complete guide for 2023?

Credit cards are an essential part of many people’s financial lives. They are also an important financial instrument. They offer convenience, flexibility, and rewards. But what exactly are credit cards and how do they work? In this post, we’ll explore the basics of credit cards. We will also explain how they can help you manage your money and build your credit score. 

With all good things, there are some bad ones as well. The same is the case with credit cards. Indiscriminate high usage of credit cards and carrying balances can affect credit scores. Credit cards carry one of the highest interest rates on loans. These may be recipe for disaster for users as this may add to their debts.

To read about more basics of credit cards, please do read below:

What is a credit card?

First, let’s define what a credit card is. A credit card is a debt-based financial product. A credit card offers revolving credit limits to the issuer. The borrower or the credit card member can use the credit limit to make payments. They can use credit cards for shopping, dining at restaurants, and buying things online or at-store. The credit card company will send the member a bill for their outstanding balance.

Cardmembers will have to pay a minimum balance amount. If the member pays the bill in full in advance, their credit limit is restored and they have to pay no fee or interest. If the card member does not pay the balance, they will have to pay an APR (Annual Percentage Rate) and other late payment charges. 

A credit card lets a credit card member borrow money and pay it back later. This means you can use a credit card to make purchases even if you don’t have the money in your bank account at the time. The credit card you use will determine how much you can borrow and the interest rate you’ll pay. Credit card companies are businesses that issue cards with specific terms and conditions.

Amex Membership Rewards

When a card member uses a credit card, they’re taking out a short-term loan from the bank. The loan is from the issuer of the credit card issuing bank. As a customer of the credit card, you have a fixed period usually 25 days to pay the balance in full. A Card member has to pay late payment fees if they do not make the payment in time. The bank will charge APR on the amount as well. The interest rate on a credit card depends on the type of card and the creditworthiness of the card member.

Who are the different parties in a credit card?

Credit cards are a loan from the issuing banks to the card members. Unlike a personal or consumer loan, the credit card offers the flexibility of use. There are many parties in play with a credit card.

  • Firstly, the borrower or the card member who applies for the Credit Card. The card members apply for the credit card and sign the card member agreement. A Credit card is a form of loan from the card issuer bank to the card member. They will check for the credit score of the card members before issuing the credit card.
  • Next, issuing Bank that issues credit cards. They govern the payment terms, and applicable interest rates, and provide credit risks.
  • Credit cards come printed with the names of other financial institutions. These include American Express, Visa, Mastercard,  or Discover. These are the payment networks. These payment networks help clear payments while card members use their cards worldwide.
  • Further, there are also co-branded credit cards by airlines, hotels, retailers, and other issuers. These co-branded cards provide bonus rewards to card members. These bonus rewards are applicable only to the issuing brand.

Key advantages of using Credit Card

Flexibility

Compared to debit cards, credit cards also offer great flexibility. A member is always limited with the balance in the checking account for spending. The spending power is equal to the money in hand. On the other hand, with a credit card, a card member can spend money on the basis of their credit limit. 

Credit cards have a credit limit and card members can spend up to that limit in a given billing cycle. Further, they can use their credit cards to make emergency purchases. They can indulge to pay for things they can’t afford at the moment. They may not have that money available to them right now. Members can spend the money on credit cards and pay it on a fixed date as per the terms and conditions of the credit card.

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For payments credit cards also offer flexibility. Card members can pay off the balance in full each month. They can also pay the amount in payment plans over months by paying the applicable APR or interest rate. Some credit cards also levy late fees and other charges on delayed payments. Always be conscious of spending money on a credit card. Do not get into the trap of spending too much.

Protection

Another, important key advantage of using a credit card over cash is an offer of a greater level of protection. When a customer buys something using a credit card, they are protected by the Fair Credit Billing Act. This law requires merchants to correct any errors on the credit card bill. It also gives the cardmember the right to dispute any charges they didn’t approve.

Rewards

Another important and lucrative advantage of using a credit card over cash is that it allows one to earn rewards. Credit cards have programs to offer rich rewards. Reward programs allow card members to earn points, miles, or cash back on their purchases. This means that every time a member uses their credit card, they’re also earning rewards.

Credit cards

Credit card issuers offer multitudes of rewards which may include:

  • Airline miles with the airline and bank co-branded credit cards
  • One-time bonus points or statement credits on new cards issuance
  • Introductory low or even 0% APR on balance transfers or new purchases
  • Bonus points on the anniversary of the cards for paying annual fees
  • Free nights on co-branded hotel cards
  • Faster points or miles on specific spend on dining out, travel, or streaming services
  • Access to airport lounges on airline or travel credit cards
  • Statement credits against fees of incidental charges on airports and other airport services

Credit Score

Besides the above advantages, using a credit card can also help build a card member’s credit score. A credit score or the most popular version FICO score is a three-digit number. This number reflects the creditworthiness of a customer.

A variety of factors affect the credit score of a card member. These include payment history, credit utilization ratio, credit mix, and credit history.  It’s used by lenders to determine whether to approve them for credit and what interest rate to charge.

When a member uses a credit card, they’re building a credit history. This is an important factor in determining their credit score. Credit card companies report to the bureaus about the usage of cards, and late, or missed payments. As long as you make your payments on time and don’t exceed your credit limit, your credit score remains great. By using credit cards in a responsible manner, members can improve or build credit scores.

Always pay your credit bills on time and in full to the extent possible. I have personally had the misfortune of getting slapped with a late payment fee as well as credit bureau reporting for getting late for a single day. This is after I have a spotless history of on-time payments for more than 5 years.

Credit card usage

Cash advance in a credit card

A cash advance is a facility to take advance cash from a credit card. A participating ATM can dispense this cash. This cash is a loan from credit card issuers and charges interest. There are fees for using this facility. The cash advance also carries higher applicable interest charges. This is a great facility in case of emergency or pinch. Do not take cash advances as a practice. It not only affects one’s financial goals, but a missed payment may also affect your credit score. 

Shortcomings of Credit Card

There are several disadvantages or shortcomings of using a credit card. Firstly, it is a great financial product with ease of use. On the other hand, it is a disaster in hands of an overspender. For a shopaholic credit card is a path to Nirvana. It can fuel the endorphins of the shopper but may push them into the credit card debt trap.

Credit Score deterioration of the card members

High usage of credit cards can affect the credit score of members. If they consistently carry a high balance or make late payments, their credit scores may suffer. For a business loan or a mortgage, a good credit score is essential. A lot of young adults spoil their credit scores through the indiscriminate use of credit cards. Later when they actually need a loan they struggle.

Interest Rates and high fees

Credit card issuers charge high fees and interest rates on unpaid balances.  They often come with fees, such as annual fees, balance transfer fees, and cash advance fees. These can pile on if a user is dependent on credit card debt. This can spiral out of control and leave unsustainable levels of debt.

Fraud

Additionally, credit cards are vulnerable to fraud and identity theft. They can cause financial and personal stress if you fell prey to the same. Always practice safe card usage. Read more for details on how to use your credit card safely.

Best Credit Cards for Fair Credit in 2023 – A Complete Guide

Credit cards for fair credit or average credit can help people to build their credit. These credit cards usually come with $0 annual fees. They report the monthly payment fees to three credit bureaus and help build the credit score. Further, these credit cards also have credit-building features such as providing access to free credit scores. Finally, these credit cards also offer education on building good credit scores.

With an improved credit score members can have better rates on loans and mortgages. Credit cards on offer for Fair credit offer better features than secured credit cards.

How to monitor your credit score to help improve it from Fair to Good?

Cardmembers can opt for a service like CreditWise from Capital One. This service provides the credit score of a user from the TransUnion Credit bureau. It is available for any adult with a valid social security number. There should be an available file with the user with TransUnion for this service to work. There is no requirement to be a Capital One customer to use this service.  

Credit cards for people with Fair Credit Scores

#1 CapitalOne Platinum Mastercard

fair credit

Fees: This credit card is available with $0 in annual fees. It also offers $0 foreign transaction fees. 

Joining Rewards: This credit card doesn’t offer any joining rewards.

Rewards: Mastercard offers $0 Fraud Liability if the card is ever lost or stolen. Capital One has a tool to monitor the credit profile of a user. Card members get unlimited access to their credit score CreditWise from Capital One

In a Nutshell: This is one of the best credit cards for members with Fair credit. This card automatically increases the credit limit of the user over time. They consider increasing the credit limit starting in 6 months. They take into account payment history patterns to raise the limit. This is a great credit card for a starter person looking to build credit.

#2 Milestone Gold Mastercard

fair credit

Fees: Milestone offers multiple gold cards. The annual fee of the credit card varies from $35-$75 and it depends on the pre-qualification and approval of the card. Members can pre-qualify for a Milestone credit card to check for eligible fees and APR.

Rewards: The Milestone credit card is a special financial product for rebuilding or building credit. It can be used as a credit card wherever Mastercard is accepted. Unlike a secured credit card which may require a security deposit. Milestone credit card is a good option in place of a traditional secured credit card. 

In a Nutshell: Milestone Gold Mastercard is a good starting product for anyone who is interested in establishing or rebuilding their credit. They report the account history to all three major credit bureaus. They give cardholders a chance to establish a consistent payment record. This helps in building credit scores over time. 

Milestone is a limiting credit card as it doesn’t offer too many rewards or facilities. But its sole purpose is to build a credit score. It does not offer a facility for a balance transfer on their credit card. International transactions on the Milestone Gold Mastercard are disabled by default. 

#3 Mission Lane Visa Credit Card

Fair credit

Fees: Mission Lane Visa credit card has an annual fee of $59.

Rewards: This credit card doesn’t offer rewards as the intent of this credit card is to rebuild credit.

In a Nutshell: Mission Lane Visa Credit Card is a credit rebuilding card. It doesn’t require a security deposit to offer a credit card. Once the credit card is approved by Mission Lane, they offer a very high APR loan. Mission Lane credit card offers a limited credit limit for the card members to start with. This credit limit may be $500 or $800 for a card member. Once a member makes their payments on time for a few months, Mission Lane increases the limit on the credit card.

Mission Lane reports the payment history to all three credit bureaus. It also provides free anytime access to the credit score of the card member. Access to this credit score helps the cardmember take control of their finances. This credit card doesn’t offer any balance transfer facility. The credit card comes with an app to monitor the financial progress.

#4 Petal 1 Credit Card

Fair credit

Fees: Petal 1 credit card is a no-fee credit card. It charges no annual fees and no foreign fees.

Rewards: Cardmembers can earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases. It also offers a high cashback of upto 10% on selected merchants. 

In a Nutshell: Petal 1 credit card is a great card to build credit as well as earn rewards. Members start with a starting credit limit. They can increase the credit limit with monthly payments on time. Petal 1 credit card reports to all three credit bureaus. 

Best co-branded Gas stations credit cards in 2023

Gas is an everyday expense for everyone. Popular gas station service providers partner with Banks and Credit card services to issue these credit cards. These co-branded credit cards provide discounts at gas pumps, marts, or convenience stores in gas stations. 

The USA is one of the most gas-guzzling countries. Road transportation on our highways is the preferred means of transportation. Motor gasoline is one of the major fuel consumed in the USA. A lot of people in the USA prefer road trips and they keep on consuming gasoline. As per an estimate by the US Energy Information Administration, US travelers spent 135 billion gallons of gasoline in 2021. This amount to 369 million gallons of gasoline per day. Light duty vehicles such as personal trucks, cars, and sport utility vehicles consume 91% of this gasoline.

Shell is the major fuel station service provider in the USA currently. They have more than 12,400 locations all across the USA. Exxon Mobil is a close second with almost 11,900 locations. Next, comes Chevron with 6,990 locations across the USA.

How do Gas stations make money?

Gas stations make most of their profits in the convenience stores next to the gas pumps. They keep the gas price competitive with razor-thin margins to cover the cost of rent, labor, and utilities. Gas stations make the most money off food and drinks including alcohol sales. They sell food and drinks at a premium as customers usually buy food and drinks on their trips from them. They can also make money offering insurance, cleaning services, car repairs, and other associated services.

Here we will review some of the co-branded gas station credit cards for our readers.

#1. Shell Fuel Rewards Mastercard

Joining Rewards: Customers can save 30¢/gallon up to a total of 35 gallons. This saving is valid on the first five fuel station purchases for new customers. 

Rewards: Members save 10¢/gallon on all purchases at Shell gas pumps. Cardmembers can also earn 10% Shell rebates on their first $1,200 Shell non-fuel purchases per year. They can also earn special rewards on other marked products in Shell convenience stores in the stations. 

Further, cardmembers can earn 2% Shell rebates on their first $10,000 Dining and Grocery purchases per year. They can also earn 10¢/gal for every $50 spent at participating restaurants with a linked credit or debit card. Members can select the participating restaurants and keep earning rewards. Additionally, members earn 1% Shell rebates on all other purchases. Members can also earn rewards for every $50 spent shopping their favorite brands at fuelrewards.com/shopping.

In a nutshell: Though it may appear that the savings are 30¢/gallon and may amount much, it is just $10 for 35 gallons of purchase. Again the 10¢/gallon is just 2% of the total savings if gasoline is priced at $5/gallon. Cardmembers can get better overall rewards with a Rewards credit card. 

#2 Exxon Mobil+ Credit Card

gas stations credit cards

Joining Rewards: Cardmembers earn up to 42¢/gallon for the first two months. Further, members earn 30¢/gallon as a bonus statement credit on fuel for their first two months after the account open date.

Rewards: Members can get 12¢/gallon in instant savings on every gallon of premium gasoline. They will receive 10¢/gal on other grades of fuel every time. Additionally, cardmembers receive 5% statement credit for all in-store purchases and car washes. Though, this reward has a limit of the first $1,200 in non-fuel purchases per year. 

In a nutshell: Exxon also provides 2% rewards on their credit card. Additional statement credit is also limited to $1,200 per year. This amounts to 5% of $100 per month, which is a measly $5. Though this is free money, a member needs to spend $100 in the gas station store every month. It is better to fuel oneself at a better food restaurant or a supermarket.

#3 BPMe Rewards Visa Signature Card

gas stations credit card
BPME Rewards Card

Joining Rewards: Members get 30¢/gallon for the first 60 days of opening a new BPMe Rewards Visa Signature credit card. 

Rewards: Once the 60 days period is over, members get 15¢/gallon. This credit card also provides 3% cash back on dining in restaurants, takeout, or delivery. Further, they also get 3% cash back on groceries. Cardmembers also get 5% cash back on all non-fuel purchases at BP and Amoco fuel stations. For the rest of the purchases earn 1% cash back rewards.

Members also receive other Visa Signature benefits. These include Purchase Protection on qualified purchases. Zero liability for a stolen or lost credit card. Contactless, tap-and-go credit cards. 

Cardmembers can redeem their rewards for statement credit, gift cards from major retailers, travel experiences, and more.

In a nutshell: BPMe Rewards card offers better rewards at 3%. These rewards are useful and even better than other rewards credit cards. To know more about rewards cards, do read our take on the best rewards credit card.

Another advantage of this card is that the rewards can be redeemed for statement credits or gift cards. Usually, other gas station cards will make you use the rewards only for fuel purchases. Here, flexibility is better.

#4 Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi

gas stations credit card
Costco Citi Visa

Joining Rewards: There are no special joining rewards on this credit card as of now.

Rewards: Card members earn 4% rewards on the gas and EV charging up to $7,000 per year. In addition, they can earn 3% rewards on restaurants and travel. Further, 2% rewards on eligible purchases in Costco stores and Costco.com and 1% rewards on all other purchases.

Costco offers members exclusive discounts for credit card holders. Card members can add more family members to these cards, and they can earn cashback on their purchases as well. Finally, Card members can redeem cashback against an annual certificate for redeeming merchandise at US Costco stores.
In a nutshell: This credit card costs $0 in fees with an existing paying Costco membership. Further, card members do not need a separate membership to Costco. The credit card works as a Costco membership card. This credit card makes sense for all purchases on Costco, not only the fuel. Members earn 4% rewards on fuel limited to $7,000 purchases. This comes to $280 in a year.

Wells Fargo Credit Card – Best offers for max rewards

Wells Fargo is one of the oldest banks offering banking services to individuals and businesses. Started in 1852 by Henry Wells and William G. Fargo as a money delivery service through stagecoaches. It is helping customers go further by providing innovative financial services and helping them get ahead. Wells Fargo provides banking, investment, and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance.

Wells Fargo serves one in three households in the United States. It is placed at No. 30 in the list of Fortune 100 in 2020. It currently manages more than $2 trillion assets.

Wells Fargo Rewards

Customers get an automatic Wells Fargo Rewards account on opening a Wells Fargo Credit Card. Wells Fargo provides rewards in the form of cashback using their rewards credit cards. They  can redeem Wells Fargo Rewards in multiple ways including:

Credit cardmembers can redeem their rewards as a statement credit to a qualifying Wells Fargo credit card. They can also get the rewards deposited directly to the checking account or mortgage. They can also visit a Wells Fargo ATM and redeem in cash $20 increments with their ATM or Debit Card.

Cardmembers can sign on to their Wells Fargo account and use their rewards to make purchases online. They can use their rewards to book airline tickets with no blackout dates. They can also go to the EarnMall online portal by Wells Fargo to redeem the rewards. The “Pay with Rewards” feature allows members to redeem their available Wells Fargo Rewards online. They can redeem them through participating merchants towards qualifying purchase transactions.

Credit Cardmembers can also share their rewards with charities or organizations they value. They can transfer these rewards to gift cards in multiple of $25. They can redeem their Wells Fargo Rewards to support disaster relief. These donations can help the American Red Cross provide shelter, food, and health and mental health services during emergencies.

#1 Card Name: Active Cash Card

Wells Fargo
Active Cash Card

Fees: Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is available for $0 in annual fees.

APR: This credit card offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening. This intro APR is valid on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. After that, the variable APR will be 19.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49%. To qualify for this introductory rate, balance transfers should be made within 120 days from account opening.

Rewards: Cardmembers earn a $200 cash rewards bonus when they spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months. They also earn an unlimited 2% cash reward on all purchases on this credit card. This rate of 2% is flat for all purchases on this credit card.

Pros of this Card: The best part of this credit card is its flat and easy reward structure. Cardmembers earn 2% flat cash back on all purchases, without worrying about categories to track. There are no categories to activate to earn rewards. 

This credit card also provides cell phone protection. If cardmembers use this credit card to pay their cell phone bills, they get free insurance of $600. They can use this insurance against damage or theft to the device. There is a $25 deductible on the insurance. 

Wells Fargo also provides free access to the FICO score to all their online customers. Members can track, maintain, or monitor their FICO score. They also provide monthly personalized credit insights to the members. Cardmembers also get full access to their credit report from Experian. This report provides full access to the credit history and insights in the credit history of the member.

#2 Card Name: Wells Fargo Autograph Card

Wells Fargo Autograph

Fees: Wells Fargo Autograph Card is available for $0 in annual fees. 

APR: This credit card offers a 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening. This intro APR is valid on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. After that, the variable APR will be 19.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49%. To qualify for this introductory rate, balance transfers should be made within 120 days from account opening.

Rewards: Cardmembers earn 20,000 points when they spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months. These points can be redeemed for $200 in value in cash. 

Pros of this Card: Cardmembers earn 3x points on travel categories including airline bookings, hotels, car rental bookings, and cruises. They also get 3x points on dining out in restaurants, takeout, or food delivery. Other categories which provide 3x points include gas, transit like trains, rideshares, parking, tolls, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Furthermore, they also earn 1x points on the rest of their purchases.

Cardmembers get access to the Visa Signature concierge. They also get access to the Visa Signature Hotel collection. They can use their card to make reservations for the best deals in the lap of luxury. 

This credit card also provides cell phone protection and access to the My Wells Fargo deals program. 

Cardmembers can redeem their rewards for a large number and variety of rewards. They can redeem rewards on flights, car rentals, and hotel stays for the next vacation. They can also redeem their rewards for a $25 gift card. Members can also redeem their points against eligible purchases in the card account. Customers can also Pay with Rewards through PayPal.

#3 Card Name: Bilt Mastercard Credit Card

travel credit cards
BILT Mastercard

Fees: This credit card charges $0 in Annual fees and foreign currency conversion fees

APR: 20.24% – 28.24% of variable APR

Rewards: BILT MasterCard lets the cardmembers earn points on paying rent. This card provides a 1% reward for paying the rent. This credit card does not charge any transaction fees. There is a limit to the total 50,000 points which members can earn from rent.

Pros of this Card: Bilt Mastercard offers 2x points on travel purchases. Card members earn points on flights, hotels, rental cars, and cruises. In order to qualify, the travel is to be booked directly with airlines, hotels, and car rental agencies. 

The card also offers the members 3x points on dining. On the rest of the purchases, the card offers 1 point. All the expenses on the 1st day of every month offer double the rewards. Members get 6x points on dining, 4x on travel, and 2x on other purchases. Further, rent payments on the 1st do not qualify for this offer. 

Bilt has been ranked as one of the most valuable reward points by Bankrate. It has been ranked above American Express cards and Chase Rewards cards.

Bilt offers up to $5,000 reimbursement for a non-refundable passenger fare. If for any covered reason the trip is interrupted or canceled. Bilt also offers reimbursement for expenses incurred on delayed trips over 6 hours. Covered reasons include Weather, aircraft breakdown, or air traffic control delays. In order to, qualify for this offer the card members need to book the entire trip on the Bilt Mastercard. 

This card also offers Auto Rental Collision Damage waiver for any rental car charged on the card. BILT MasterCard offers better points as a rent or travel card. We have covered it as part of our best travel cards.

#4 Card Name: Wells Fargo Reflect Card

balance transfer cards
Reflect Card

Fees: This credit card has a $0 annual fee but it charges 3% of foreign transaction fees. They also charge 3% or a minimum of $5 on balance transfers during the introductory period of 120 days. Post the introductory period the fees increase to 5% or a minimum of $5.

APR: This card has an Introductory Balance Transfer APR. It offers 0% introductory APR for 21 months on balance transfers and purchases. There is 18 months of normal intro period and 3 months of extension of 0% APR on-time payments. Thereafter, a regular APR of 17.24% to 29.24% variable APR applies.

Rewards: This credit card qualifies for My Wells Fargo Deals. This is a program offering cashback to customers. Further, it gives access to personalized deals from a variety of merchants. My Wells Fargo Deals target a range of purchase experiences from traditional brick-and-mortar stores. They offer deals from stores like Starbucks and PetSmart to more experiential merchants like Airbnb. 

Pros of this card: Wells Fargo Reflect Card is one of the best 0% APR credit cards. It offers the longest term of 18 months. This term can further increase by 3 months if the customer pays the minimum balance on time. This effectively takes the 0% introductory period to 21 months on paying the minimum monthly balance.

Additionally, this credit card also provides $600 protection against cell phone theft or damage. To qualify, the cell phone bills must be paid using this credit card.

Finally, the Cardmembers also get access to a 24/7 on-demand referral dispatch network. They provide emergency roadside assistance, towing, or locksmith service. 

American Express Centurion Credit Card – Elite status card

American Express Centurion Credit Card is one of the top credit card. This credit card is from American Express Bank. This card offers some of the best rewards in the industry. This is an invite only card. It offers personal conceirage, elite membership, lounge access and more. This is amongst the most coveted credit card which takes you to the elite category.

There is a small downside to this card it comes with a hefty annual fee. Further, this is an invite-only credit card. It is unlikely that a regular person will be approved for this credit card.

American Express Centurion Black Card

centurion credit card
Centurion Credit Card

Card Membership: American Express Centurion Black Card is an invite-only credit card. Nonetheless, existing Amex members can apply online for the Centurion Black card. There is no guarantee that Amex will accept your membership request.

Fees: Annual membership fee of this credit card is $5,000

Spend: On average card members spend from $250,000 – $1,000,0000 per annum on this card.

Rewards: Card members are eligible for 1 Membership rewards points for every $1 they spent. Members can redeem these points for statement credits. They can also redeem them for gift cards, book flights, and shopping at stores. 

Advantages of American Express Centurion Credit Card

Firstly, the biggest attraction of this credit card is its exclusivity. This card is not built for providing big rewards. This credit card help with exclusivity and access to personalised services. 

Card members have access to 24×7 personal concierge services. The concierge service is a dedicated point of access for all the needs of card member. The concierge can help them with various requests. For example, travel, dinner reservations, flowers delivery, and other requests.

This credit card also provides reservations at select exclusive restaurants. Centurion members also get complimentary access to Centurion Lounges at the US Open. Further, they also get access to dedicate Amex areas in baseball games.

Membership benefits with American Express Centurion Card

Centurion elevates the card members’ status in hospitality reward programs. These rewards programs are spread across multiple hospitality companies. For instance, hotel chains, airlines, and car rentals. They cover all the travel needs of a card member. This is one of the best advantage of this credit card.

Here is a list of the elite membership status card members can enjoy. All these are complimentary with American Express Centurion Black Card membership. Card members need to enrol in the programs using their Card.

  1. Hilton Honors Elite Diamond Status. Card members receive the elite Hilton Honor status. They can use it to book any of the 14 Hilton brands. They get access across the world for perks and privileges. Although, the bookings need to be made directly with the Hilton website.
  2. Delta SkyMiles Medallion Status. Members earn 100% of bonus miles with Medallion status on Delta. In order to, qualify all the bookings should be on the airline website. Use Centurion Credit Card to earn these rewards. Further, they are also eligible for unlimited upgrades on economy-published rates.
  3. MeliáRewards Platinum. Enjoy privileges at participating Meliá Hotels International properties.
  4. Hertz Gold Plus Rewards President’s Circle. Enjoy complimentary access to the highest elite-tier status. Furthermore, enjoy exclusive benefits when renting with Hertz. Benefits include discounts, upgrades, and priority service. 
  5. Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status. Card members also enjoy an Elite status. They can use it to book and enjoy over 29+ brands in over 6500 properties. Marriott has properties around the world in 127 countries.
  6. IHG Rewards Club Platinum Elite. Members enjoy exclusive benefits in over 350 properties in 7 brand hotels.
  7. Sixt Advantage Circle Diamond. Enjoy access to Sixt’s exclusive rewards by enrolling in their program. In order to enroll use the Centurion Card. 
centurion credit card
Luxury Properties

Insurance benefits of American Express Centurion Credit Card

This credit card also offers Insurance coverage for some incidents. This insurance covers for any inconvenience to the card members in case of travel cancellation. Further, all these insurance only triggers if the travels are charged to the Centurion Card. The card offers the following benefits to card members.

  1. A $250 per person travel inconvenience coverage for personal expenses. This covers members for missed departures or connections. They also cover delayed flights, and canceled, or overbooked flights.
  2. Comprehensive medical assistance program for US$100,000 for medical services in the event of an emergency,
  3. Travel accident insurance coverage of up to US$ 1 Mn. This insurance covers any case of accidental death or dismemberment while traveling on a plane, train, ship, or bus.
  4. Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance Plan for coverage up to $75,000 for car rentals. All the car rentals need to be paid using the Centurion Credit Card.
  5. Baggage reimbursement of up to $1,200 per trip. This covers any bags lost in transit by a scheduled air carrier.

Other benefits of the Amex Centurion Black Card

American Express also offers an extended warranty on purchases. These should be made using the Centurion Credit Card. Card members get an extended warranty equal to the existing warranty. The duration of this warranty is up to a max of 5 years. Further, this card also offer Purchase Protection for up to 90 days. This plan covers any lost, stolen, or damaged goods purchased using the Centurion Card. Though, this Purchase Protection plan is available only in the USA.

Card members can also add their family members for supplementary cards. The first supplementary card is free of charge. But, there is a charge of $1,500 for 2nd card onwards. Alternatively, they can opt for the Platinum credit cards available at $0.

Finally, the Centurion Card also offers Centurion Lounge access to card members. American Express also has a tie-up with multiple partner lounge operators. These include Plaza Premier, Delta Lounges, Airspace lounges, and Escape Lounges. This privilege also permits the card members can bring their immediate partner or spouse to the Lounge. Further, they can bring up to two companions to the lounges.

Some disadvantages of the American Express Centurion Card

One of the most obvious drawbacks of this credit card is its high annual fee of $5,000. Unless, a person spend $400,000 to $800,000 annually, it’s almost impossible to recoup this amount. The exclusivity of this credit card also limit the number of members.

In our opinion, the American Express Platinum Credit Card serves the purpose. They do not need the Centurion Credit Card. The card is more for the “WOW” factor. Unless a member need a personal concierge or travel a lot around the world. They do not need Centurion Credit card

Know more about some of the best business credit cards and best rewards credit cards

Best credit cards for healthcare expenses in 2023

Medical and healthcare expenses are some of the biggest expenditure items in a US household. As per an estimate from “The National Health Expenditure Account (NHEA)”, healthcare spending in the USA has grown to 2.7% in 2021 to $12, 914 per person. The total healthcare spending in the USA has grown to $4.3 trillion in 2021. As a share of the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP), health spending accounts for 18.3%.

Credit cards offer good rewards on purchases made on grocery stores or drugstores. Major retailers like Costco, Walmart, Whole Foods, or Target also have drugstores or pharmacies in their stores. Customers can fill their prescritons or they can buy over the counter medicines, nutraceuticals, or other healthcare related purchases from these stores as well. Do read fine print of your credit card for the applicable terms on your card. The merchant need to post the correct Merchant Code for the applicable cash rewards. 

Apart from these credit cards, customer can look for best rewards cards or best retailer cards for their shopping needs.

Best credit cards for healthcare expenses from drugstores

If you are someone, who get their prescriptions filled from traditional drugstores like Walgreens,Rite-aid, or CVS. These below credit cards can help you provide best value for your money. Though they do not provide a considerable cash back. But every buck counts.

#1 Card Name: CITI Custom Cash Card 

healthcare expenses
Citi Bank Custom Cash Card

Fees: This card has no annual fee. But, there is a 3% balance transfer fee is applicable.

APR: This credit card offers 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers. All the purchases and balance transfers should be made within 15 months. After that, the variable APR applicable will be 18.24% – 28.24%,

Rewards: Card members can earn $200 in cashback rewards. In order to, qualify for the card members to have to spend $1,500 in eligible purchases in the first 6 months of card opening. The cash back rewards are in form of Thank You points. This credit card also offers 5% rewards on their selected eligible category of choice for each billing cycle up to a spend of $500. Drugstores or Pharmacy is an eligible categories for this credit card.

Our Rating: 5 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: This credit card offers a maximum reward of $25 on pharmacy purchases every month if a user reaches the limit of $500. Once the maximum limit is hit, the rewards will reduce to 1% of the purchases. Card members also earn unlimited 1% rewards for all other purchases. The points are awarded in form of Thank you points. Each $1 spent earns 1 Thank You Point.

Citi Bank defines the drugstore as a broad category.  They include purchases made at pharmacies in grocery stores, general merchandise/discount superstores, and wholesale/warehouse clubs. The merchants should submit purchases made in their pharmacy with the drug store and pharmacy merchant category code. So, if a user fills their prescription in a pharmacy or even in grocery stores, for instance, Costco, Walmart, or Whole Foods. The same will be applicable to get rewards.

#2 Card Name: Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card 

healthcare expenses credit card
Bank of America Cash Rewards

Fees: This card has no annual fee. But, there is a 3% balance transfer fee is applicable.

APR: This credit card has an introductory offer of 0% APR. The introductory APR is applicable for the first 18 months of the new card opening. Further, all the balance transfers should be in 60 days. Post the introductory offer applicable variable APR is 18.24% – 28.24%.

Rewards: Card members can earn an online $200 cash rewards bonus. To qualify, they must make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of the account opening.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Bank of America Cash rewards card offers 3% cash back on the category of choice. The available categories are gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drug stores, or home improvement/furnishing. Further, this card offers 2% cash back on groceries and at wholesale clubs. Furthermore, card members earn 1% cash back on the rest of the purchases. Card members can change the category of choice once every month.

This cashback is for a total spend of $2,500 in a quarter. A card member spending $2,500 in a quarter on medicines can get a total cash back of $75. This translates to $25 in cash back every month on a spend of $833.33 every month.

Preferred Rewards members of Bank of America earn 25-75% of bonus rewards every month. Effective rewards for the Preferred Rewards member can be effectively 5.25%.

#3 Card Name: Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card

healthcare expenses
Chase Freedom Flex

Fees: $0 in joining and annual fees

Rewards: Card members can earn a $200 bonus after they spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. They can also earn 5% cash back rewards on grocery purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on a $12,000 first year spend.

APR: 0% introductory APR for 15 months on balance transfer and purchases, 18.74% – 27.49% variable APR is applicable after that

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Chase Freedom Flex Card offers great rewards on everyday purchases like groceries, gas, and online merchants. This card offers 5% in cash back on the bonus category for each quarter. The bonus category changes every quarter and can include grocery stores, drugstores, online subscriptions, travel, dining out, or retailers. It also offers 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards. This card also offers a 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and also on dining out. For the other purchases, there is a cash back of 1%. Cash back never expires on this card. 

So this card offers 3% cashback. If the bonus category in a particular quarter includes drugstore, the total cash back will increase to 8%. The best part about the Chase Freedom Flex card, is no upper limit on the 3% cashback. So effectively you can earn unlimited cashback.

This card also offers Zero Liability protection and purchase protection. Other additional offers and benefits are available from Mastercard. 

#5 Card Name: Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit Card

healthcare expenses
Chase Freedom Unlimited

Fees: $0 in joining and annual fees

Rewards: Chase Freedom Unlimited card offers a $200 bonus. In order to qualify for this offer the card members need to spend $500 in the first 3 months of new account opening. 

APR: 0% introductory APR for 15 months on balance transfer and purchases, 19.24% – 27.99% variable APR is applicable after that

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Card members earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart). This offer is applicable for spends up to $12,000 spent in the first year. This amounts to $600 of cash back for the first year.

This card offers 3% in cash back rewards for purchases make at select categories. For example, drugstore purchases, dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services. They also 5% in cash back rewards on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Further, the card members can earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on rest of the purchases.

Card members can redeem their cash back for a statement credit or direct deposit to a bank account. They can also link their Amazon.com to the Chase Rewards and can redeem the cash back for purchases on Amazon.

Best credit cards for healthcare expenses made online

If you are someone who prefer to order your medicines online, do look for offers applicable from the credit cards below:

#1 Card Name: America Express Blue Cash Everyday Card

American Express Blue Cash Everyday Card

Fees: This card has $0 in annual charges. 

APR: American Express Blue Cash card offers a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers. This offer is applicable for the first 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, a variable APR, 18.24% to 29.24%.

Rewards: Card members earn 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases, up to $6,000 per year on eligible purchases. They also earn $250 back as a statement credit. In order to qualify for this offer, they have to spend $2,000 in purchases on the new Card in the first 6 months.

Our Ratings: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members earn 3% cash back on everyday categories like U.S. Supermarkets and Gas Stations. Once the limit of $6,000 per year is hit, the cashback reduces to 1%. Card members can redeem the cashback anytime they want with no minimum limit. 

Card members can also 3% cash back in form of rewards points on online purchases. They can redeem the rewards points for the statement credit. The limit for this offer is $6,000 in purchases. So this translates to $15 in cash back rewards per month. They also receive 1% in cash back on the rest of the purchases. 

Credit card members can use the online purchase to make purchases for prescription or non-prescription medicines. 

#2 Card Name: Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card

Amazon Prime Visa Signature

Fees: This card has a $0 in annual charges

APR: 18.49 – 26.49% in variable APR.

Rewards: Card members receive a $100 deposit directly to their Amazon.com account on opening a new card account.

Our Ratings: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: The major prerequisite for this credit card is to have an active Amazon Prime membership. Card members earn 5% of purchases as rewards for shopping on Amazon.com or Whole Foods. They also earn 2% in cashback shopping at gas stations and restaurants. Finally, they receive 1% cashback for all other spendings.

Chase and Amazon also offer another credit card Amazon Rewards Visa Card. The card doesn’t require a Prime membership but it also offers lower rewards.

Card members can redeem the cashback on Amazon.com or they can select to redeem it for gift cards, travel, or dining deals on Chase Rewards.

This card also offers extended warranty protection in the US on the manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year, on eligible warranties of three years or less. They also offer theft protection of up to $500 per claim for 120 days of any eligible item bought using this credit card. This card further, offer baggage delay insurance, zero liability protection, travel accident insurance, and lost luggage reimbursement. The above offers are only available in case the purchase is on this credit card.

Finally, this card offers the card members complimentary Visa Signature Concierge Service 24 hours a day

Best Pharmacy & Wellness credit cards for healthcare in 2023

Pharmacy & wellness credit cards are co-branded cards by Banks and Pharmacies or healthcare providers. These credit cards offer better deals on pharmacy and drugstore purchases. They also offer cashback on prescription medicine purchases.

Some of these credit cards like CareCredit offers introductory offers on the APR. Once the introductory offers are over, these credit cards could be expensive. It is better for card members to apply for loans rather than rely on credit cards for financing their healthcare bills. Healthcare insurance should be the first to lean on in case of a health emergency. Healthcare credit cards can be used to cover incidental or procedures not covered in the insurance.

Advantages of using Pharmacy & Wellness Credit cards

  1. Firstly, Pharmacy & wellness credit cards offer specific deals on prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, and other generic medicines. They offer better discounts on white-label products or the in-home brands of the Pharmacies or grocers. 
  2. Next, these credit cards also offer fixed-term or fixed-price financing for healthcare spending. These credit cards offer better financing deals on healthcare expenses than traditional credit cards. 

#1 CareCredit Credit Card for Healthcare financing

Pharmacy & Wellness Credit cards
CareCredit Healthcare Financing

Fee: There is no annual fee for CareCredit.

APR: CareCredit offers financing options for healthcare expenses. They offer short-term financing for 6, 12, 18, or 24 months. They do not charge any interest on purchases of $200 or more if a card member makes the minimum payment and pays the full amount by the due date. 

CareCredit also extends longer-term healthcare financing for 24, 36, 48, or 60 months periods with reduced APR. Further, they offer fixed monthly payments. Furthermore, purchases of $1,000 or more may be eligible for a 24 month introductory offer with a 14.90% APR. For a term of 36 months, the promotional offer is a 15.90% APR or a 48 months offer with a 16.90% APR. Purchases of $2,500 or more may be eligible for a 60 month promotional offer with a 17.90% APR. For new accounts, the Purchase APR (interest rate) is 26.99%. 

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros & Cons of this card: Credit card members can use the CareCredit card to pay for out-of-pocket expenses not covered by medical insurance. This card also offers special financing options that are not available with other cards. Card members can pay for health, and wellness care at over 250,000 enrolled providers across the nation.

CareCredit is a deferred interest credit card. It offers an interest free introductory period. After the introductory period is over and the balance is not paid off there is an interest charge from day one. This is a very predatory practice. Deferred interest credit cards are different from 0% APR credit cards or balance transfer credit cards.

#2 Card Name: myWalgreens MasterCard

Pharmacy & Wellness Credit cards
myWalgreens MasterCard

Fees: $0 in annual fees yet a cash advance fee of 4%. This credit card charges a foreign transaction fee of 3%.

APR: 20.99% – 29.99% variable APR

Rewards: A one-time $25 myWalgreens cash reward on making any purchase within 45 days of opening a new credit card account. 

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Firstly, Walgreens Mastercard offers extra rewards at Walgreens stores, Duane Reade, and Walgreens.com. Walgreens also offers a 10% Walgreens Cash reward on Walgreens branded products. For example, Generic medicines and treatments, Vitamins and supplements, and Baby & children wellness, and Personal care.

Furthermore, the best part of this credit card is that it offers 5% Walgreens cash rewards on all other brands and also on Rx purchases. This card offers 3%Walgreens cash rewards on grocery and health & wellness products bought outside Walgreens. For the rest of the purchase, this card offers 1% Walgreens cash rewards.

Card members also enjoy $0 fraud liability protection and free access to the credit bureau score.

#3 Card Name: The AARP Essential Rewards Mastercard from Barclays

Pharmacy & Wellness Credit cards
AARP Essential Rewards Mastercard

Fees: This card is available for an annual charge of $0 

APR: This credit card offers a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on balance transfers made within 45 days of account opening. After that, a variable APR of 20.99 – 29.99% will apply.

Rewards: Card members earn a bonus of $200. In order to qualify, the card members have to spend $500 in the first 90 days of the card opening.

Our Ratings: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: This credit card from Barclays offers cashback and rewards for AARP and other members. Card members can earn an unlimited 3% cash back on Gas and Drug Store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart). They also earn a 2% cashback on all eligible medical purchases. Finally, card members can earn 1% cash back on the rest of the purchases.

Barclays will donate a $10 donation to the AARP foundation for each approval of a new credit card. Further, they will also donate 1% of eligible purchases to AARP foundation. This credit card offers one of the best contributions to the charitable organization in terms of the total percentage. 

Card members can redeem rewards for cash back, AARP membership, and more at BarclaysUS.com.