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Best online shopping credit cards to choose from in 2023

Credit cards offer great deals and rewards on online shopping. As more and more, people are shopping online, these credit cards offer great rewards. With the ease of mobile apps and websites, more customers are purchasing things online. It is easier to browse millions of items online and get them delivered in the comfort of your own home.

These credit cards offer specific and more rewards on buying either online at the time of checkout or through a statement credit. Credit cards also offer rewards on retail purchases. For details on the best credit cards to be used at retailers please check our post on best retailer credit cards.

Advantages of online shopping using credit cards

  1. Firstly, for customers who order from a particular online retailer (be it Amazon, Instacart, or others), these cards offer great rewards. For example, higher cashback rewards or points on placing orders using these credit cards.
  2. These cards also offer additional discounts on selected inventory or a particular website or eCommerce store.
  3. These credit cards also offer other rewards which are available from the card issuing company or the bank. 

#1 Card Name: Instacard Mastercard

online shopping
Instacart Mastercard

Fees: This card is available for a charge of $0 in annual fees but no foreign transaction fees.

APR: 19.24% – 27.99% variable APR

Rewards: Card members get a free year of Instacart and a $100 Instacart credit upon the approval of the credit card. They can earn a 5% cash back on purchases through Instacart.com or on the Instacart app from the vendors.

Our Ratings: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Instacard charges an Instacard+ membership of $99/year. Instacard+ membership is required to keep this card active. As an Instacart+ member, card members are eligible for free shipping on all orders above $35. Instacart+ membership can be shared with one more user.

 They also, get 5% cash back on travel purchased through the Chase Travel Center. They also receive 2% cash back at restaurants, gas stations, and on select streaming services. Finally, the card members receive a 1% cash back on the rest of their purchases.

Card members can choose to receive the cashback as a direct deposit to an account or receive it as a statement credit. 

#2 Card Name: Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card

online shopping
Amazon Prime Visa Card

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 pre-requisite 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. 

#3 Card Name: eBay Mastercard

online shopping
eBay Mastercard

Fees: This card has a $0 in annual charges

APR: 18.49 – 26.49% in variable APR.

Rewards: Card members opening a new eBay Mastercard earn a $50 bonus statement credit. Though, they have to spend $150 or more on eBay within 30 days of account opening.

Our Ratings: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members earn 5X points for the rest of the year after they spend $1,000 on eBay in a calendar year. Until then, earn 3X points per $1 spent up to $1,000 on eBay in a calendar year. Card members also earn 2X points per $1 spent on gas, restaurant, and groceries. For the rest of the purchases, they earn 1X points per $1 spent on all other Mastercard purchases. 

Customers can redeem their points at eBay checkouts. 1,500 points amount to $10 in checkout value for the customers.

#4 Card Name: CapitalOne Walmart Card

online shopping
Capital One Walmart Card

Fees: This card has $0 in annual charges.

APR: 17.99 – 28.99% in variable APR.

Rewards: Card members earn 5% cash back on Walmart.com. This cashback is available for pickups and delivery. Furthermore, as an introductory offer, customers earn 5% cash back in Walmart stores. This offer is applicable only for the first 12 months after card approval when they use their Capital One Walmart Rewards Card with Walmart Pay.

Our Ratings: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members earn 2% cash back In Walmart stores, at restaurants, and on travel. For the rest of the purchase, the customers can earn 1% cash back wherever Mastercard is accepted. This credit card is covered by $0 Fraud Liability if it is ever lost or stolen. That means card members will not be responsible for fraudulent purchases.

Card members can redeem the cash back for statement credits or direct deposit. They can also cover any recent purchases using the cashback. Card members can also redeem the cashback for gift cards from Walmart or other retailers. They can also redeem the points for any travel or trip purchase using the Capital One Walmart Rewards card.

#5 Card Name: America Express Blue Cash Everyday Card

online shopping
American Express Blue Cash 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 $100 back as a statement credit after they spend $2,000 in purchases on the new Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.

Our Ratings: 5 / 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 also earn 20% back as a statement credit on purchases. They have to use their new card to check out with PayPal at merchants in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Though the total limit for this offer is set up to $150 back.

#6 Card Name: U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards Visa Signature Card

online shopping
American Express Blue Cash Card

Fees: This card has an introductory offer of $0 in the first year and after that an annual fee of $95.

APR: 18.74% to 28.74%.

Rewards: Card members can earn a $250 bonus. For this offer to qualify they need to spend $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening

Our Ratings: 5 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members can earn up to 6% cash back at their favorite stores up to a maximum of $1,500 per quarter. They can also choose online stores from the list of available stores. Though, they can select only two stores out of the list of applicable 24 stores.

Card members can also get 3% cash back on their first $1,500 in eligible purchases on their choice of one everyday category. For example, the everyday categories include wholesale clubs, gas, EV charging stations, bills, and utilities. Finally, the card members earn 1.5% cash back on the rest of the eligible purchases.

Card members can earn more cash back when making purchases at over 1,100 online stores through the Rewards Center Earn Mall. They can also earn 5.5% cash back on prepaid hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Travel Center.

Card members get the cash back as a statement credit, a rewards card, a merchant gift card or directly deposited into their U.S. Bank checking or savings account. 

Best sports credit cards for super fans in 2023

Sports credit cards are either issued jointly by credit card companies along with the association of sports authorities. There are credit cards issued in association with NFL, NBA, and other sports associations. These

These credit cards offer some great rewards like cashback, points, and miles. These credit cards are like any other credit card which charges interest rates if you carry some balance. If you are looking to opt for a balance transfer credit card. See our detailed guide on balance transfer credit cards.

Advantages of the sports credit card for the sports enthusiastic

  1. These sports credit cards help provide early access to sports fans to the sporting arenas. Credit card companies invest in dedicated booths or arenas in sporting venues. Card members can access and enjoy games from these areas.
  2. Credit card companies also engage card members with other dedicated activities. For instance, these may include meet and greet with athletes, autographs or pictures with athletes, and fan merchandise. Some banks issue special merchandise which is available to purchase only to credit card holders.
  3. These credit cards also offer great rewards for spending outside sports. These credit cards could help the members with rewards.
  4. These cards also provide rewards for online games. Customers can level up their gaming experience to maximize the cashback options. Thus, this will help reduce the overall cost of the games, consoles, and accessories.

#1 Card Name: NHL Discover It Credit Card

NHL Discover It Credit Card

Fees: $0 annual fee

APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. After the Intro period ends a standard variable APR of 15.74% to 26.74% is applicable.

Rewards: Card members also earn a $300 Statement Credit after they spend $1000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Sports fans can select any one of the 32 team motifs from the NFL lineup as the face of the card. Further, they can also earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter up to the quarterly maximum of $1,500. For example, gas stations, Amazon.com,

Further, card members can earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Discover bank also offers an unlimited cashback match for the first year. This meant that if a card member earns $200 worth of cashback. Then, Discover will match this cashback on the anniversary of the credit card.

#2 Card Name: Capital One SavorOne Rewards Credit Card

sports credit cards
CapitalOne Savor One

Fees: $0 annual fee

APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. After the Intro period 17.99% to 27.99% Standard Variable Purchase APR. An introductory balance transfer fee of 3%. 

Rewards: Card members earn a $200 cash bonus on spending $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: This card offers 8% cash back on bookings made on Capital One Entertainment. This includes tickets to sports events, movies, art events, and others. Card members earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, grocery stores, and popular streaming services.

Capital One is the official banking partner of the NCAA and they arrange VIP packages, athlete meet-and-greets, and more. The bank is also an official banking partner of Major League Basketball (MLB).  Capital One rewards cardholders will be able to redeem their rewards for tickets to MLB games for all 30 teams through the Capital One Entertainment ticketing platform.

Finally, they also get access to exclusive tickets to special events such as All-Star Week, the MLB Postseason, and the World Series. Card members also get offers for appealing discounts for the MLB Shop and MLB.TV.

#3 Card Name: PlayStation Visa Credit Card

Playstation Visa Card

Fees: $0 annual fee

APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. After the Intro period 17.99% to 27.99% Standard Variable Purchase APR. An introductory balance transfer fee of 3%. 

Rewards: Card members earn 5X points when they shop directly from PlayStation. They also earn 5x points on buying PlayStation and Sony products at PlayStation stores and authorized retailers. They also earn a $75 game on spending $500 in 2 months of credit card opening

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: PlayStation Visa credit card provides rewards of 3X points on cable and internet bill payments. Card members earn 2X points at restaurants, including dine-in, takeout, and delivery. Furthermore, card members also earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other shopping.

Finally, credit card members can personalize their credit cards with the images from the select games.

#4 Card Name: NFL Extra Points Visa Credit Card

sports credit cards
NFL Visa Card

Fees: $0 annual fee

APR: 19.74 – 29.74% of variable APR 

Rewards: $100 Cash Back in statement credits when card members spend $500. To qualify the purchases should be outside of the NFL in their first 90 days.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card:

Card Members can earn 3% in rewards on qualifying NFL purchases and NFL team purchases. NFL and team purchases include NFLShop.com, NFL stadium purchases, and NFL tickets. This card also provides 2% in rewards on grocery store purchases, food delivery, restaurants, gyms, and sporting goods purchases.

Card members get special financing on NFL Tickets of $250 or more made at NFL Team Ticket Offices, Ticketmaster, StubHub, and SeatGeek. They also get 20% off NFLShop.com purchases made with this Credit Card. Furthermore, this card provides exclusive access to the NFL’s biggest games and events.

#5 Card Name: American Express Platinum credit card

sports credit card
American Express Platinum Card

Fees: This credit card charges a $695 annual fee.

APR: 20.24 – 27.24% of variable APR 

Rewards: Card members earn 80,000 Membership Rewards Points after they spend $6,000 on purchases. To qualify, these purchases should be made on the new card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.

Our Rating: 5 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: American Express is not a co-branded card with any sporting authority or association. Nonetheless, this card provides great offers to sports fans. American Express has reserved lounges and gates at major sporting arenas. Platinum cardholders can use these gates to enter fanzines and enjoy the games. They also get access to limited merchandise autographed by top athletes.

Further, American Express Experiences allows card members to get presale tickets for events before others. They also cover multiple sports including basketball, baseball, tennis, golf, and others. American Express also has a centurion lounge in the US Open reserved for the Platinum and higher card members. Card members can enjoy the game from this lounge and also enjoy free food and drinks.

Finally, American Express is not tied to one specific sporting event, they keep on providing the best value to their card members.

Best co-branded financial broker credit cards in 2023

Financial broker credit cards are available from banks and financial companies. These co-branded cards are available only for active account holders of trading accounts of brokers. These cards are available usually with low fees, but they do have other fees like balance transfer fees.

These credit cards are issued by credit card companies. All the credit decisions, issuance of the credit card, fees, charges, and payments are made directly to the credit card company.

Compared to the rewards credit cards, these cards do not offer that many rewards. If you are looking for better reward cards, look for our post on the same.

Advantages of co-branded financial broker credit cards

The biggest advantage of these credit cards is to get the cashback or rewards directly deposit into the trading account. Instead of the statement credits for the cashback coming to the credit card, they accumulate in a brokerage account. Card members can invest these small sums as per choice.

#1 Card Name: American Express Platinum Card for Schwab

financial broker credit cards
Charles Schwab Amex Card

Fees: This credit card charges $695 in annual fees.

APR: 20.24 – 27.24% of variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 100,000 Membership Rewards points. First of all, they have to after spending $6,000 in purchases in the first 6 months of Card Membership.

Our Rating: 5 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: This is one of the very expensive American Express cards with an annual fee of $695. This card is meant for high-net-worth individuals holding a brokerage account with Charles Schwab.

Card members receive $100 in statement credit if the total holdings in their account are more than $250,000. This credit doubles to $200 if the total Schwab holdings are more than $1 million. This reward is applicable every anniversary year.

Card members earn 1 Membership reward for every $1 spent on all spending. They receive 5x Membership Rewards points on travel bookings on Amex Travel. Further, they also receive $200 in Hotel and Airline statement credit on qualified bookings on Amex Travel. The Hotel credits are on booking in Hotel Collections. Airline statement credits are on any incidental charges on the platinum card by an airline.

Next, the card members earn $20 credit for streaming services per month. These applicable streaming services could be, for example, Disney+, Netflix, New York Times, etc. This offer is valid only after registration on the American Express website. Card members get $189 in statement credits for CLEAR service payments made on the American Express Platinum card. Finally, customers also receive statement credits for Walmart+ membership fees.

#2 Card Name: Schwab Investor Card from American Express

financial broker credit cards
Charles Schwab Amex Card

Fees: $0 annual fees

APR:  0% introductory APR for the first 6 months from the date of account opening. After the intro offer 17.74 – 20.74% of variable APR.

Rewards: Card members earn one-time $200 statement credit after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months of Card Membership.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: This is a basic American Express card for active Charles Schwab customers. Though, this card offers one of the best interest rates (APR) on any American Express Card. The rates are pretty competitive for the American Express card. Card Members also earn an unlimited 1.5% cash back automatically deposited into the eligible Schwab account for purchases made with this card.

#3 Card Name: Fidelity Rewards Visa Signature Credit Card

financial broker credit cards
Fidelity Rewards Visa Card

Fees: $0 annual fees

APR:  18.24% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 2 reward points for every $1 spent on this card. They earn 2% unlimited cashback for their spending.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: First of all, this card automatically transfers the cashback on everyday purchases directly to the Fidelity brokerage account. This helps to convert the cash back into savings. This is a nice little feature. Instead of wasting money on small insignificant gifts, the money goes into savings. Though, this card also provides customers the option to redeem rewards. They can redeem rewards on dining, travel, and other rewards as well.

Subsequently, card members can shop with confidence using this card. This card offers card protections, such as zero fraud liability, purchase security, and emergency card replacement.

Further, this credit card has unlimited earnings with no caps or category restrictions. Further, this card has been awarded the best reward credit card for savers. Compared to, American Express cards this card doesn’t offer many frills or freebies.

#4 Card Name: Platinum Card from American Express for Morgan Stanley

financial broker credit cards
Morgan Stanley Platinum card

Fees: $695 annual fees

APR:  20.24 – 27.24% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 125,000 membership reward points. To qualify for this reward they have to spend $6,000 in the first 6 months of the new card opening. 

Our Rating: 5 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: American Express offers premium metal credit cards for Morgan Stanley customers. Card members can choose either a classic metal card or one specially designed metallic art card. This is again a very expensive card but it offers great deals on the rewards

Card members also get the first Additional Platinum Card to their accounts for family members for no annual fee. Further, they can get additional platinum cards for lower fees. Another, option available is to choose American Express gold cards for $0 annual fees.

Furthermore, card members can redeem rewards directly to their brokerage account. Card members earn 5x membership rewards on airline tickets, which are booked on airline websites or through Amex Travel. These rewards are also available for prepaid hotel purchases through Amex Travel.

Card members earn $200 in statement credits for hotel bookings through American Express Travel. Although, they need to pay through their American Express Platinum cards. 

Customers also receive statement credits for Walmart+ membership fees. This membership offers them free delivery. Next, they also received $15 in Uber Credits every month and an additional $20 in the month of December. Card members also get a $189 CLEAR statement credit. They can also earn, $200 in statement credits for selecting an airline and if any incidental fees are charged to the card by the airlines. Finally, the card members get up to $300 in statement credits each year on a digital or club membership at Equinox.

#5 Card Name: Morgan Stanley Blue Cash Preferred American Express Card

Morgan Stanley Blue Card

Fees: $0 introductory annual fees for the first year. After, the first year, a fee of $95 per year is applicable.

APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 months. Post the introduction period, the Applicable variable APR of 17.74% to 28.74%.

Rewards: Card members earn $400 back in statement credit. To qualify they need to spend $3,000 on eligible purchases. This offer is valid only on the new Card within the first six months of Card Membership.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: To start, card members earn a $100 statement credit after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases per calendar year on the Card. Membership fees will be effectively waived if a card member meets the spending criteria.

They also get, exclusive access to ticket presales and card member-only events. Card members earn 6% on grocery purchases at US supermarkets up to $6,000 (worth $360). After the applicable limit, the cashback is 1% on purchases. Card members earn 6% cash back on select streaming services. And then, they also earn 3% cash back on gas stations, ride share, trains, buses, parking, taxis, and tolls.

For the rest of the purchases applicable cashback is 1%. Finally, they get access to American Express Experiences to book members-only invite events.

Conclusion for selecting financial broker Credit Cards

As we have seen above, these credit cards co-branded by financial brokers, do offer good rewards. But the only worthwhile cards are from American Express. These cards carry big annual fees. Card members can select normal Platinum credit cards from American Express to get some of these benefits. Though, these credit cards are great to flaunt your wealth.

8 of the best co-branded airline credit cards in 2023

All major commercial airlines have co-branded airline credit cards. These include airlines from the USA as well as international airlines. These cards offer rewards usually in form of miles. These cards offer rewards in form of amenities from the airlines. They make you feel like a king in the air.

Airlines credit cards are good if you are frequent traveller and prefer a particular airlines. These cards do come with annual fees. The rewards are also good if you prefer only a particular airlines. Airlines also issue business credit cards along with personal credit cards. These business credit cards make sense for a business if it involves frequent air travel for the executives.

Advantages of using co-branded airline credit cards

Airline branded credit cards can offer a number of advantages to consumers who frequently fly with a particular airline. For someone who wants to earn rewards for their travel, these could be great. Co-branded airline credit cards along with hotel credit cards offer great rewards. There are also travel focussed credit cards which offer great rewards on travel. You can read our guide on best travel credit cards here. Some of the potential benefits of using an airline credit cards include:

  1. Firstly, co-branded airline credit cards offer rewards points or miles for every dollar spent on the card. These points or miles can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, or other travel-related expenses.
  2. Airline co-branded Cardholders may be able to access exclusive discounts on flights. They may also receive other amenities such as priority boarding, free checked-in bags, discounted meals or drinks once onboard, and other perks.
  3. Some cards offer bonus rewards for spending on flights and other travel-related expenses with the airline, allowing cardholders to rack up rewards more quickly.
  4. These credit cards offer free access to lounges of the airlines nationally or through network lounge operators internationally.
  5. Finally, some high-end airline credit cards offer travel insurance if the trip is booked using the credit card. Such insurance covers the cost of trip cancellation owing to airline faults, trip delays, lost luggage insurance, and emergency evacuation coverage.

It’s important to carefully consider the terms and fees associated with an airline credit card before applying, as these cards may have higher annual fees and interest rates compared to other types of credit cards.

#1 Card Name: Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card.

airline credit cards
Southwest Rapid Rewards

Fees: $69 annual fees

APR: 19.74 – 26.74% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 50,000 bonus points. They have to spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. They also earn 2 points on spending $1 on Southwest airlines purchases

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: This card awards 3000 bonus points every year on the card member’s anniversary. Card members also earn 1 point on everyday spending of $1. Rapid Rewards card also offers other benefits such as a Companion pass. They also offer 2 Early-bird check-in every year.

This card also offer rewards in form of points on everyday purchases. Card members can earn 2 points on $1 spent. The spending categories can be on the internet, cable, streaming services, local transit, and commuting.

SouthWest airline offer 3 credit cards Rapid Rewards, Rapid Rewards Priority, and Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Cards. The difference is in the annual fees and the rewards for each of these card offers. The better the category of credit card higher the rewards and the associated fees.

#2 Card Name: United Quest Card

airline credit cards
United Quest Visa Card

Fees: This card charges $250 annual fee and $0 foreign transaction fee.

APR: 20.74% – 27.74% variable APR

Rewards: Card members can earn 80,000 bonus miles on spending $5,000. They have to spend this amount in the first 3 months of the new card opening.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Credit card members get priority boarding on United Airlines flights. They also get $125 bonus credit on United Airline bookings. They earn 3x bonus miles on spending on United Airlines. Card members earn 2x miles on the spend on dining, other travel-related purchases, and streaming services. They also get first and second bags for free on United Airlines flights. Card members get upto $100 in statement credits for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or Nexus.

United offers a starting credit card United Gateway Card with a $0 annual fee. Another starting credit card is the United explorer Card with a $95 annual fee and decent rewards. Although, the top card from United Airlines is the United Club Infinite Card. This card offers 4x miles on United, 100k bonus miles, but a high annual fee of $525.

#3 Card Name: Alaska Airline Credit Card

airline credit card
Alaska Visa Card

Fees: This card has a $75 in annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.

APR: 19.74% – 27.74% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 50,000 bonus miles and Alaska Famous Companion Fare for $121 on making a $2,000 purchase in the first 90 days.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members and 6 companions get free checked bags on Alaska Airlines. Every year on the card anniversary they get an Alaska Famous Companion Fare for $121 on any flight. Card members earn unlimited 3 miles on every $1 spent on Alaska Airlines. They also earn 1 mile on every $1 purchase on other things.

There is also 20% cash back on all Alaska Airlines inflight purchases using the credit card. Finally there is flexibility with no blackout dates on Alaska Airlines using this credit cards.

#4 Card Name: Free Spirit Travel More World Elite Mastercard

airline credit cards
Free Spirit Mastercard

Fees: This card has $0 introductory first-year annual fee and $79 in fees in subsequent years.

APR: 19.74% – 27.74% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 60,000 bonus points on spending $1,000. They also earn a $100 Companion Flight Voucher if they make purchases within the first 90 days of account opening.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members earn 3 points per $1 spending on Spirit Airlines. They also earn 2 points on eligible dining and grocery purchases. On each anniversary year they get a $100 Companion Flight Voucher. They have to meet the spending criteria of $5,000.

#5 Card Name: JetBlue Plus Mastercard from Barclays 

airline credit cards
jetBlue Mastercard

Fees: This card charges a $99 annual fees to the card members.

APR: 0% intro APR for 12 months on balance transfers made within 45 days of account opening. After that, a variable APR will apply, 19.74% – 28.74%.

Rewards: Card members earn 40,000 bonus points. These rewards are earned after spending $1,000 and paying the annual fee in full within the first 90 days.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Firstly, card members earn 6x points on eligible purchases on JetBlue. They also earn 2x rewards on dining and grocery purchases. They also receive 4,000 bonus points on the card anniversary year. There is also a 50% savings on inflight purchases of food and drinks.

Card members get an annual $100 statement credit on purchasing a JetBlue Vacations package of $100 or more. Card members earn free first checked bags for the card member and 3 accompanied members.

#6 Card Name: Delta Skymiles Platinum American Express Card

airline credit cards
Delta Skymiles Amex Card

Fees: $250 with no foreign transaction charges

APR: 19.99 – 28.99% of variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 90,000 bonus miles and 10,000 Medallion miles on spending $3,000 in first 6 months

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members 3x miles on purchases at Delta or hotels directly. They also earn 2x miles on dining, takeout, and groceries. Card members get first bags free and 8 companions for Delta flights using the American Express Cards.

Card members also get priority boarding on Delta flights. They also get a $100 statement credit credit for eligible spend on Global Entry or TSAPrecheck. Futher, American Express Platinum card comes with Insurance for flight delays, cars, and other travl related spends.

#7 Card Name: AAdvantage Aviator Silver Mastercard

airline credit cards
American Airlines AAdvantage

Fees: $199 annual fee

APR: $19.74 28.74% variable APR

Rewards: 3x AAdvantage miles on every $1 spent on the card. At each anniversary year card members get 2 companion ticket for $99. They have to meet spending criteria of $20,000 on more in a year.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card Members earn 2x AAdvantage miles spent on hotel and car rentals. They also earn $50 in wi-fi credits every anniversary year. Card members get free checking bags and preferential boarding for the card members and up to 8 companions booked in same trip. Finally, they also get $100 in statement credit for reimbursement of Global Entry or TSAPrecheck.

#8 Card Name: Citi AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard

airline credit cards
American Airlines AAdvantage Citibank

Fees: Free for first year and $99 after that

APR: 20.24 – 29.24% variable APR

Rewards: 2x miles on every $1 spending on American Airlines flights, restaurants, and gas stations

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members get first checked bag free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for the card members. Further, upto 4 travel companions booked on same card. Card members get preference in boarding American Airlines flight.

Card members get $125 discount on American Airlines flight on spending $20,000 or more on the first year and renewals. Further, they get 25% savings on in-flight food and beverages purchases.

#9 Card Name: Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard

airline credit cards
Hawaiian Airlines Mastercard

Fees: $99 in annual fee and no foreign transaction fees

APR: 19.74 – 28.74% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 60,000 bonus Hawaiian miles after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 90 day. They also earn 3x miles on the Hawaiian airlines purchases

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members earn 2x miles on gas, dining, and eligible grocery store purchases. They also earn 1x miles on all other purchases. Card members earn 2 free checked bags on the Hawaiian airlines. Finally there is a One-time 50% discount on roundtrip flights between Hawaii and North America.

#10 Card Name: Emirates Skywards Premium World Elite Mastercard

airline credit cards
Emirates Skyward Credit Card

Fees: $499 in annual fee

APR: 19.74 – 28.74% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 40,000 miles on a new card opening. Every anniversary year members get 10,000 bonus miles on Emirates Airlines.

Our Rating: 2 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: The primary card holder gets Gold Tier membership elevation on Emirates airlines. Card members earn 3 miles every $1 spent on Emirates airlines. They also earn 2 miles on $1 spent on travel purchases. For rest of the spend $1 spent card members earn $1.

Further, the card members get Global Travel or TSA PreCheck fee waiver. They also get Priority Pass for access to select lounges. This card is issued by Barclays Bank, and is one of very expensive cards in $499 fees for the amount of benefits. Though, Emirates is one of the best airlines when it comes to customer services. For a card member purely from a points or miles basis, this card doesn’t add that much punch.

8 amazing travel credit cards to use in 2023

Travel credit cards offer rewards on flight booking, hotel stays, and rental cars. These credit cards offer many advantages for travelers. One of the best advantages of travel credit cards is access to airport lounges. For frequent travelers, access to these lounges can provide a break and rest.

Travel credit cards offer rewards points or miles. These rewards could be for purchases on travel or for every dollar spent on other purchases. Usually, there are multipliers for travel-related purchases. Card members can redeem these points or miles for travel-related purchases. Finally, they can redeem these points for booking flights, hotel stays, and rental cars.

Advantages of using travel credit cards

1. Earning rewards

First of all, there are a few downsides to using travel credit cards. They usually carry joining or annual fees. The APR on travel credit cards is higher than on normal cards. Card members need to weigh the advantages of the travel cards against the cost.

2. Perks and benefits of travel credit cards

Secondly, travel credit cards often come with extra perks and benefits. These benefits include free check-in bags, priority boarding, and access to airport lounges. These advantages attract travelers to apply for travel credit cards. Further, they also offer payments made against airport programs like Global Entry and TSA PreCheck. Credit card companies reimburse the cost of these expenses.

3. Travel insurance

Some travel credit cards offer travel insurance. This travel insurance includes trip cancellation and interruption coverage. This would also cover lost luggage protection, emergency medical, and evacuation coverage.

4. Flexibility on travel credit cards

Travel credit cards often have flexible redemption options. They allow card members to redeem points or miles for travel-related purchases. Card members can also transfer them to airline or hotel loyalty programs.

5. Convenience of travel credit cards

Furthermore, travel credit cards can make it easier to pay for travel-related expenses. A wider range of merchants accepts these credit cards at airports. They offer more discounts as compared to debit cards or cash. Travel Credit cards also offer better rewards as compared to rewards credit cards for travel.

6. Foreign Transaction Fees

Finally, several credit cards waive any foreign transaction fees. This is a great advantage to have for international travelers. They can use the cards without incurring extra fees. Some of these cards may reimburse or offer foreign transaction fees as cashback. Finally, this is one feature that a card member should insist on. Traveling internationally, foreign transaction fees can pile up pretty soon.

List of some of the best travel credit cards

Here is a list of some of the best travel credit cards which are available for customers. These credit cards offer some of the best deals on travel.

#1 Card Name: Venture X from Capital One

travel credit cards
CapitalOne VentureX

Fees: This card has $395 joining fees and annual fees. There is a 3% fee on the balance transfer but $0 in foreign transaction fees.

Rewards: Customers can earn 75,000 bonus miles on spending $4,000. These miles equal $750 in cash when used for travel-related purchases. They have to spend this amount within 3 months of opening a new credit card account. This card offers double bonus miles on every spend.

APR: 19.99% – 26.99% variable APR

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: This card also provides free 10,000 bonus miles on each anniversary year. Customers also receive $300 statement credits for booking through Capital One Travel. This card also provides a $100 credit for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck. Venture X provides 10x miles on hotel and rental car-related spending. Card members can earn 5x miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel. This card also provides unlimited access to Capital One lounges to the card member and 2 guests. They also have a tie-up with Priority Pass and Plaza Premium lounges worldwide. Venture X card holders and 2 guests can enjoy these lounges worldwide.

Lastly, the main setback of this card is its high joining fees. This is offset against the initial sign-on miles. This is an excellent card for high flyers and globe trotters. Evidently, this is one of the best rewards offering cards.

#2 Card Name: Classic Platinum from American Express

travel credit cards
American Express Platinum

Fees: $695 in annual fees, a 3% fee on the balance transfer, and $0 foreign transaction fees.

Rewards: Amex platinum offers 125,000 membership rewards points as a one-time bonus. Card members need to spend $6,000 in the first 6 months of the issuance of the card. 

APR: 20.24% – 27.24% variable APR is applicable on eligible charges.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Firstly, the Platinum credit card with annual fees of $695 is an expensive credit card. On the other hand, this credit card provides $1500 worth of value to the credit card member. Customers get $200 back in statement credit each year. Card members earn 5x points on flight and hotel bookings through American Express Travel.

Customers get $20 in statement credits each month for purchases on subscription services. Included services are Audible, Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, Peacock, and the NY Times. Walmart+ members enjoy full credit for the membership fees when they pay using this card. Card members also receive a $15 bonus in Uber Cash each month. They have to book car rides or UberEats orders on the Uber App using the Platinum card. Card members are also eligible for rewards for many other premium subscriptions.

Credit card members get access to the American Express Global Lounges. These lounges are available at more than 1400 airports across 650 cities globally. Furthermore, card members earn 5x points on flights booked on an airline website.

#3 Card Name: Chase Sapphire Reserved Credit Card

Sapphire Reserve

Fees: Annual fee of $550 and a 3% introductory balance transfer fee which increases to 5% of the balance transfer fee.

Rewards: Card members earn 60,000 bonus points. But, they have to spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of the new card opening. These bonus points are worth $900 when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

APR : 0% introductory APR for 15 months on balance transfers and purchases. Once the introductory offer ends a variable APR of 17.99% – 27.99% is applicable.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Card members receive up to $300 in statement credits every anniversary year. Although, to qualify for this offer they need to charge their travel expenses to this card. Card members earn extra points when they buy travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards. They get 5x total points on flights and they earn 10x points on hotels and rental cars. Lastly, card members earn 3x points on the rest of their travel plans. Evidently, this is an excellent travel credit card.

#4 Card Name: Travel Rewards from Bank of America

travel credit cards
Bank of America Visa

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

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

APR: 0% APR offers for 18 months and then a variable APR of 17.74% – 27.74% 

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: This credit card 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. 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.

#5 Card Name: US Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card

US Bank Reserve

Fees: $400 in Annual fees

Rewards: 50,000 bonus points worth $750 on travel. Card members have to spend $4,500 in the first 90 days of credit card account opening.

APR: 21.24% – 28.74% of variable APR

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Card members earn 5x points on hotels and car rentals booked in the Altitude Rewards Center. They also earn 3x points on travel and mobile wallet purchases. Nevertheless, this credit card provides $325 in annual credits for eligible purchases. These eligible purchases could be for multiple categories. For example, these could be for travel, dining, and restaurant charges. Complimentary Priority Pass membership covering more than 1300 VIP lounges worldwide. Moreover, this credit card also reimburses the TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee of $100 every 4 years.

#6 Card Name: Discover It Miles travel credit card

travel credit cards
DiscoverIT Miles

Fees: $0 in Annual fees or foreign transaction fee

Rewards: 1.5x miles on every dollar spent on the credit card. Discovery automatically matches all the miles earned at the end of the first year. If a card member earned 10,000 miles in the first year. The card will match it to 10,000 miles extra at the first year anniversary.

APR: 21.24% – 28.74% of variable APR

Our Rating: 2 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Discover It Miles card is a decent travel card for customers. Customers can redeem miles for a statement credit to pay for travel purchases. They can also redeem miles on Amazon.com and redeem using PayPal at the checkout. Although, this card does not offer too many rewards like other travel cards. For example, there is no airport lounge access, bonus on flight bookings, and reimbursement of TSA PreCheck fees. Finally, an important advantage is $0 annual fees and matching of miles for the first year. 

#7 Card Name: CITI Premier Credit Card

travel credit cards
Citi Premier

Fees: $95 in Annual fees and $0 in foreign transaction fee

Rewards: Card members earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in purchases. They have to make these purchases with the card within the first 3 months of account opening. Further, these points are redeemable for $800 in gift cards. 

APR: 20.24% – 28.24% of variable APR

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Card members earn 3x points on restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel, and hotels. They earn 1x points on all other purchases. Card members can redeem the points to shop online at Amazon.com or BestBuy.com. Card members can also redeem their points for flights, hotels, cruises, and more. Further, these points can be transferred to participating airline loyalty programs. A statement credit of $100 off on a single hotel stay of $500 or more, once per calendar year.

#8 Card Name: Bilt Mastercard Credit Card

travel credit cards
Bilt Master Card

Fees: $0 in Annual fees 

Rewards: Earn 2x points on flights, hotels, rental cars, and cruises. The travel is booked directly with airlines, hotels, and car rental agencies.

APR: 20.24% – 28.24% of variable APR

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Bilt Mastercard offers 2x points on travel purchases. The card also offers the members 3x points on dining and 1x points on rent payments and other purchases. Bilt rewards points have the highest value. Bilt also offers reimbursement for expenses incurred on delayed trips over 6 hours. To qualify for this offer the card members need to book the trips on the Bilt Mastercard. Finally, this card also offers up to $5,000 in reimbursement for non-refundable fares for any canceled trips.

10 of the best business credit cards in 2023

Business Credit cards help companies spend on business purchases for travel, dining, and or other small purchases. These credit cards are well-suited for business owners and they can also offer them to their employees. As these cards are offered based on the business there is no need for employees to worry about credit scores.

Business credit cards help businesses keep track of employee spending. They also offer great rewards to employees. Businesses can pay off their charges in full every billing cycle. Though, they can also decide to carry the balances by paying interest. Though, they will have to pay the minimum charges in that case.

Advantages of business credit cards

  1. Firstly, business cards usually offer to open business employee cards for free. There are usually one-time fees for the primary first card, all subsequent cards are usually offered free of charge.
  2. Next, they usually offer a central billing and management portal. This portal can give a bird’s eye view of the total business spending using credit cards. Businesses can also apply spending limits on these credit cards. These cards come with quarterly or annual reports. Customers can request customized reports for up to 24 months or even 60 months with some cards.
  3. Business credit cards do not require employees to have an individually great credit score. They get the credit card on the company’s credit limit. These credit cards are great ways for the business to develop its credit history over time.
  4. Business credit cards usually come with Fraud Protection, Purchase Protection, and personalized Account Alerts. Card members should always use their cards securely. Do read our guide on how to use your credit card securely.
  5. Finally, these business credit card statements can be easily integrated with book-keeping software such as QuickBooks or others. This could help the business simplify accounting.

#1 Card Name: Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards credit card

business credit cards
Bank of America Business Advantage Card

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.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

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 fo the best rewards available.

#2 Card Name: American Express Business Gold Card

Amex Gold Business Card

Fees: This card charges a $295 annual fee but no foreign transaction fees.

APR:  0% Intro APR for 6 months from the date of account opening. After the intro period, a variable APR of 18.49% – 26.49% is applicable.

Rewards: Card members earn 70,000 membership rewards on spending $10,000 in eligible purchases in the first 3 months. 

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members can select 2 categories on which to earn 4x points. These rewards are limited to $150,000 purchases per year. Further, this card offers 25% bonus points on spending on airlines. American Express Business Gold Card offers a flexible spending limit. This limit varies depending on the payments, purchases, and credit history of the business. The limit increases over time for the business as a whole.

#3 Card Name: American Express Business Platinum Card

business credit cards

Fees: This credit card charges a $695 annual fee but no foreign transaction fees.

APR: 18.49% – 26.49% of variable APR

Rewards: Business card members earn 150,000 membership rewards points. They need to meet the spending limit of $15,000 in eligible purchases in the first 3 months of the card opening.

Our Rating: 5 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members can earn 5X points on flights & prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com. On business purchases in excess of $5,000, rewards increase to 1.5x points. These rewards are limited to $2 million of purchases per year. Furthermore, this card offers 25% bonus points on spending on airlines.

Card members can enroll and get up to $1,000 in statement credits per year for U.S. purchases of various products. These include $400 with Dell Technologies, $360 with Indeed, $150 with Adobe Creative Cloud, and $120 with Wireless credit. These purchases have to be on the Business Platinum Card.

Furthermore, the card members get access to the Global Business Lounges of American Express. These are a network of more than 1400 lounges across 140 countries. Card members also get statement credits worth $189 for CLEAR airport access fees, $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, and $200 for selected airlines for incidental charges.

Finally, Platinum credit card customers also enjoy free premium membership with no spending requirements. For instance, Gold Elite Marriott Bonvoy and Gold Hilton Honors membership. Also, this card offers trip delay and trip cancellation insurance.

#4 Card Name: Ink Business Premier Credit Card

business credit cards
Ink Visa Business

Fees: This credit card has a $195 annual fee.

APR: 17.99 – 25.99% variable APR

Rewards: Earn a $1,000 bonus cash back after the card members spend $10,000 on purchases in their first 3 months from account opening.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Firstly, card Members earn a total of 2.5% cash back on every purchase of $5,000 or more. They also earn unlimited 2% cash back on the rest of the business purchases. Card members can redeem their rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel, and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Furthermore, all employee cards with individual spending limits are available free of charge.

This business card comes with a lot of benefits which include an Auto Rental Collision damage waiver for rental cars booked through this card. This card also offers roadside dispatch, travel, and emergency services. Card members need to pay for any additional services bought. Finally, any purchase made on this card extends the time period of the U.S. manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year.

#5 Card Name: Platinum Plus Mastercard Business card

business credit cards
Bank of America Mastercard Business

Fees: $0 in annual fees

APR: 0% APR for the first 7 billing cycles and after that 13.99% to 24.99% variable APR

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

Our Rating: 3 / 5 

Pros and Cons of this card: Businesses can order unlimited employee cards at no additional cost. Further, the travel benefits for business needs include $100,000 in travel accident insurance. Further, card members can view and monitor the Dun & Bradstreet business credit score for free.

#6 Card Name: Spark 1.5% Cash Select

business credit cards
CapitalOne Spark Business

Fees: $0 in annual fees

APR: 16.24% – 22.24% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase. An extra $500 cash bonus when the card members spend $4,500 in the first 3 months.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: This card rewards 1.5% unlimited cash back without any restrictions or category selection. Card members earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

Furthermore, it offers free business cards for employees but with all the rewards. Also, businesses can quickly and securely download your purchase records into multiple formats including Quicken, QuickBooks, and Excel

#7 Card Name: Union Bank Business Platinum Visa Credit Card

Union Bank Visa

Fees: $0 annual fee

APR: 0% introductory APR for 6 months. Post Intro offer applicable variable APR of 14.24% to 22.24%

Rewards: Lowest Interest charges

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: This credit card offers the lowest APR amongst the other business cards on offer. Thereafter, this card also offers a 3% Intro balance transfer fee. Subsequently, this card offers double the time period of the manufacturers’ warranty, up to one additional year, for eligible items purchased with this card.

Further, this card also offers an Auto Rental Collision Damage which includes damages due to collision or theft. Card members can also double the time period of the manufacturers’ warranty, up to one additional year, for eligible items purchased with their Visa card. Finally, this card also offers zero fraud liability.

#8 Card Name: Amazon Business American Express Card

business crdit cards
American Express Business

Fees: $0 in annual fees

APR: 18.49 – 26.49% variable APR

Rewards: Earn a $100 statement credit after the card members make $3,000 in purchases on this Card in the first 3 months.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Customers can opt to choose either 5% cash back or 90 days of free credit. There is an additional 5% cash back is applicable on Amazon.com, Whole Foods, and AWS spending on the first $120,000 spent every year.

Card members earn 2% cash back on spending done in restaurants, gas stations, and on wireless telephone services. Though, for the rest of the purchases, this card offers 1% cashback. But, there is an active Amazon Prime subscription required for 5% cash back.

#9 Card Name: U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards Visa Business Card

business credit cards
USBank Rewards Visa

Fees: $0 in annual fees

APR: 0% Introductory APR for 15 months. Post the Intro offer the APR increases to 18.24 – 27.24% depending on the credit history of the business.

Rewards: $500 in cash back on spending $4,500 in the first 150 days.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card Members earn 3% cash back on eligible purchases. For instance, at gas and EV charging stations, office supply stores, cell phone service providers, and restaurants. Card members also earn 1% cash back on all other purchases. Business customers get an annual $100 statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses. Further, this credit is applicable for subscriptions to FreshBooks or QuickBooks.

#10 Card Name: Evergreen by FNBO

business credit cards
Evergreen by FNBO

Fees: $0 annual fees

APR: 0% of introductory APR for the first 12 months. After the intro period 17.99 – 26.99% of variable APR

Rewards: Customers earn a $200 cash bonus (20,000 points equivalent). They have to meet the spending of $1,000 within the first 3 billing cycles after account opening.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members earn unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase. This card offers flat unlimited cashback of 2% with no category restrictions. Finally, card members earn 10,000 bonus points each anniversary year on $10,000 spent.

7 of the best student credit cards in 2023

Student credit cards are specifically designed for college or university-going students. These cards often have lower credit limits and less stringent approval requirements than regular credit cards. They are good options for students who are just starting to build their credit. Many student credit cards also offer perks and benefits that are tailored to the needs and interests of students. For example, cashback on textbooks, discounts on streaming services, or waived fees for foreign transactions. 

Some student credit cards also have lower interest rates than regular credit cards. This can make them a good choice for students who may carry a balance from month to month. It’s important to note that, like any other credit card, student credit cards come with fees and potential risks. For instance, the potential for high-interest charges if the cardholder carries a balance and doesn’t pay on time. Therefore, it’s important for students to carefully consider their financial situation and choose a credit card that they can responsibly manage.

As students do not have a credit score or credit history, student credit cards are a good place to start. Students can also opt for secured credit cards if they can’t get student credit cards. For some of the best Secured credit cards see our post on the same.

Building credit scores using student credit cards

Building a credit history is important for students because it can help them qualify for loans, credit cards, and other financial products in the future. Here are some tips on how students can build a credit history using credit cards:

  1. Student credit cards are a good place to start for starting in the financial journey. It’s a good idea to start with a small credit limit and make sure to pay the balance off in full each month. Subsequently, this will help you demonstrate that you can manage credit responsibly.
  2. Students should use their credit cards for small purchases and paying them off on time can help you establish a positive credit history. Avoid using too much of your available credit, as this can hurt your credit score.
  3. Pay your bills on time: One of the most important factors in your credit score is your payment history. Make sure to pay all of your bills, including your credit card bill, on time every month.
  4. Monitor your credit report: It’s important to keep track of your credit history and credit score. You can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax) once a year.
  5. Finally, use your credit card for things you would have paid for anyway. If you’re going to make a purchase anyway, consider using your credit card and paying it off in full each month. This can help you establish a good credit history without adding any additional expenses to your budget.

List of some of the best student credit cards in the USA

Here we will discuss some of the best student credit cards available in the market.

#1 Discover It Student Cash Back

DiscoverIT Student Cash back cards

Fees: No annual fee

Credit score: No credit score is required to apply

APR: 

Rewards: Students can earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter. The offered categories change every quarter. Once the offer is activated the cashback is applicable for Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations. 

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Discover It Student cash back card is a great starter card for students. As this card does not ask for any credit score to apply it is a good card for students. Further, this card offers 5% bonus rewards on the selected category every quarter. The category changes every quarter. For example, the categories include travel, groceries, amazon, and streaming services.

Furthermore, Discover matches the first year’s cashback dollar-for-dollar. There is no limit to the cashback, card members can earn. Students can redeem the cashback for statement credit, gift cards, or for shopping at amazon.com. 

#2 Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students

student credit cards
Bank of America Cash Rewards

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

APR: 17.74% – 27.74% variable APR

Rewards: Card members can earn an online $200 cash rewards bonus. To qualify, they have to 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 offers 2% cash back on groceries and at wholesale clubs. Furthermore, card members earn 1% cash back on the rest of the purchases. Students earn 3% cash back in the category of their choice. The categories available for the selection include gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drug stores, or home improvement/furnishings. Further, this cashback is for a total spend of $2,500 in a quarter.

#3 Capital One Quicksilver Rewards for Students

student credit cards
CapitalOne Quicksilver

Fees:  No annual fee and no foreign transaction fee

APR: 17.99 – 27.99% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 1.5% cashback on all purchases. They also earn a one-time $50 cash bonus once they spend $100 on purchases within 3 months of account opening.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Card members can redeem cash back on statement credit, gift cards, or on a recent purchase. This card offers students a complimentary Uber One membership and 10% off on Uber and UberEats orders. Further, the card members earn an unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Students get an additional warranty on eligible items (such as phones, digital products, etc.) purchased using this card. This credit card offers automatic insurance for travels booked through this credit card

#4 Capital One SavorOne Rewards for Students

Student credit cards
CapitalOne Savor Card

Fees: No annual fee and no foreign transaction fee

APR: 17.99 – 27.99% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn unlimited 3% cash back on multiple categories. 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.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: 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.

#5 Chase Freedom Student Card

student credit cards
Chase Freedom Student Card

Fees: This card has no annual fee.

Credit score: No credit score is required to apply for this card.

APR: 19.24%

Rewards: Card members earn $50 bonus on making the first purchase within 3 months of card opening.

Our Rating: 2 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Chase Freedom offers very little incentive to users. For instance, it offers a measly 1% cashback on all purchases. On the other hand, the main advantage of this card is the high acceptance rate for students. Chase Freedom Student Card provides free access to credit scores as well.

This card rewards making timely payments by increasing the credit limit. They also provide a good standing reward of $20 each anniversary year for 5 years.

#6 Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards for Students

student credit cards
Bank of America Visa

Fees: This card has no annual fee for students.

APR: 17.74% to 27.74%

Rewards: Students earn an online $200 cash rewards bonus. To qualify for this offer they have to make $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of the account opening

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card:

  • Students can earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, There is no limit to the amount of cashback they can earn and the cash rewards don’t expire

#7 Deserve EDU card

student credit cards
Deserve EDU Card

Fees: No annual fee and no international transaction fee

APR: 22.99% variable APR

Rewards: Students earn a 1% cashback offer on purchases through this card

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: These student cards are perfect for all students including international students. Deserve cards offer a free Amazon Prime student membership plan for a year. Finally, this card offers an intuitive app for card application and management.

8 best retailer credit cards to get in 2023

Retailers in partnership with banks and credit card companies launch co-branded retailer credit cards. This partnership is specific to a retailer. These cards offer extra discounts at the retailer or at a group of affiliated retailers.  They may also offer extra discounts on certain items on using the credit card. Some retailers may offer free shipping or extra return periods on using these cards.

These credit cards offer the same features as regular credit cards.  A card member needs to pay the dues as any other card. If you carry any balance beyond the last date there is a delayed fee and interest.

Why use co-branded retailer credit cards

Retailer co-branded credit cards may be attractive to loyal consumers. If a shopper frequents a particular retailer they earn rewards on their purchases. It’s important to review the terms and conditions of these cards.  They may have higher interest rates or fees compared to other credit cards.

It’s also a good idea to compare the rewards and benefits of different credit cards. Co-branded retailer credit cards might not offer the best deal from the issuer bank. Regular rewards credit cards may offer better deals than co-branded cards.

Best co-branded retailer credit cards

Here is our list of some of the best co-branded retailer credit cards:

#1 Card Name: Target Red Credit Card

retailer credit cards
Target Red Cards

Fees: $0 joining or annual fees

APR: 28.90% variable APR

Rewards: 5% off on Target stores and also on Target.com on eligible purchases. Customers earn 2% on dining out and gas purchases and 1% rewards elsewhere

Our Rating: 2 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Firstly, Target Red Card offers free 2 days shipping on thousands of items on Target.com. Next, this card has exclusive special items and offers. Next, card members get extra 30 days of return and exchange time on any purchases in Target. On the other hand, this card has a high APR. Discounts are better if a card member shops at Target, elsewhere the card offers only 1% rewards. Further, the members can redeem the rewards or cashback for only Target Gift Cards.

#2 Card Name: Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi

retailer credit cards
Costco Visa Card

Fees: This card is offered free with a $0 annual fee with a valid Costco membership.

APR: 19.49% -29.49%  variable APR on purchases and cash advances.

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.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: 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. 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

#3 Card Name: Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Credit Card

retailers credit card
Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card

Fees: $0 with a valid Amazon Prime membership

APR: 17.99% – 25.99% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn a $150 welcome Amazon Gift Card upon approval of a new credit card. Further, members earn 5% back in rewards on Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market. They also earn 2% rewards in restaurants and gas stations and 1% rewards on the rest of their purchases.

Our Rating: 3/5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Firstly, this card requires the card members to have a valid Amazon Prime membership. This is good for existing card members. The current cost of the Prime membership is $39 per month. Card members earn bonus rewards of 10% cashback on selected merchandise. This card also provides travel emergency insurance and lost baggage insurance.

#4 Card Name: Capital One Walmart Rewards Card

CapitalOne Walmart Card

Fees: This card is offered with Zero fees to the card members.

APR: 17.99% – 27.74% variable APR

Rewards: Card members can earn 5% cash back on Walmart.com. The card also offers 2% cash back in Walmart stores, fuel stations, restaurants, and travel spends. Further, it offers 1% cash back on other purchases

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Card members earn 5% cashback while paying in Walmart stores using Walmart Pay. They can also redeem the cashback for the statement credit. This cashback can be set off for any sale in the Walmart store. Card members can redeem it for gift cards or travel purchases.

#5 Card Name: Macy American Express Card

retailer credit cards
Macy American Express Card

Fees: Card members get this card for $0 in annual fees. There is a cash advance fee of 4% and a foreign transaction fee of 3% on this card.

APR: 30.99% 

Rewards: Macy’s offers a 20% discount totaling $100 for 2 days on the card approval.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Macy’s offers three credit cards for their loyal customers. For, annual shopping up to $500 they offer a silver card. Card members with annual spending from $500 to $1,199 qualify for a  Gold card. Finally, for members with annual spending above $1200 qualifies for a platinum card.

Card members can earn 3 points per $1 spent at restaurants including delivery. For every $1 spent at gas stations and supermarkets, card members earn 2 points. This credit card also offers exclusive shopping days with bonus rewards for shoppers at Macy’s. This credit card offers birthday surprises for its card members. Further card members get free shipping for orders of more than $25. For gold and platinum credit cards there is no minimum order amount to qualify for free shipping. Finally, this card has one of the highest APRs at 30.99%.

#6 Card Name: myWalgreens Master Credit Card

retailer credit cards
myWalgreens Card

Fees: $0 in annual fees. A cash advance fee of 4% and a foreign transaction fee of 3%.

APR: 20.99% – 29.99% variable APR

Rewards: A one-time $25 cash reward on making any purchase within 45 days of opening a new credit card account. Walgreens also offers a 10% reward on self-branded products. There are also 5% cashback rewards on purchasing other brands.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Firstly, Walgreens Mastercard offers extra rewards at Walgreens stores, Duane Reade, and Walgreens.com. This card though co-branded with Walgreens also offers 3% rewards on grocery and health & wellness products bought outside Walgreens. For the rest of the purchase, this card offers 1% rewards.

#7 Card Name: Home Depot Consumer Credit Card

Home Depot Card

Fees: This card has $0 in annual fees. Card members have to pay a cash advance fee of 4% and a foreign transaction fee of 3%.

APR: 17.99% – 26.99% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn a one-time reward of up to $100 cash reward on making purchases above $1,000. 

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Credit card members get one year to return any product they get from Home Depot. Card members get 6 months of 0% interest financing on purchases of more than $299 if paid in full in time. On special promotions, this financing will increase to 2 years

#8 Card Name: My BestBuy Visa Card

retailer credit cards
Citi BesyBuy

Fees: Annual fee for this card vary and could be $0 – $59 in the annual fee. Minimum $5 or 5% of the balance transfer fee.

APR: 27.99% – 29.99% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 5% rewards on shopping at bestbuy.com or at the BestBuy stores. This card also offers 18 months of free financing on purchases above $499.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Bestbuy visa card offers financing options on purchases in the store or bestbuy.com. Card members earn 3% cash back in rewards for buying gas. They also earn 2% back in rewards on grocery, dining, and takeout. There is 1% cash back in rewards on other purchases. Finally, Bestbuy runs promotional offers on high-priced items including free financing options

#9 Card Name: Kroger Rewards World Elite Mastercard

Kroger elite card

Fees: $0 in the annual fee and foreign transaction fee. The balance transfer fee of 4% of the balance transfer amount

APR: 18.24% – 29.24% variable APR

Rewards: 5% rewards on shopping at bestbuy.com or the BestBuy stores. 18 months of financing on purchases above $499.

Our Rating: 2 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Kroger rewards card offers 5% rewards on mobile wallet purchases for the first $3,000 spent. Card members earn 1% rewards for spending above $3,000. Members earn 2% rewards in the Kroger stores. For the rest of their purchase, they earn 1% rewards. Kroger Mastercard also offers an additional discount on fuel purchases at Kroger Pumps. The terms and conditions of the card are available on the Kroger website.

Some advantages of using Co-branded retailer credit cards

  1. Firstly, retailer credit cards offer better rewards or discounts on shopping at the c-branded retailer. These rewards are available to cardholders for purchases made at the retailer. These rewards may include points or cash back on every dollar spent. Certain items or inventory may carry bonus discounts or points. Usually, high-priced items may carry extra discounts if purchased using co-branded credit cards.
  2. For loyal shoppers getting a co-branded credit card offers extra discounts. It makes sense to apply for such credit cards if a customer frequents a particular retailer.
  3. Next, retailer credit cards may offer special promotions or sales to cardholders. This may be through early sales days, exclusive discounts, or early access to new products.
  4. Further, it is often easier to qualify for a retail credit card compared to a traditional credit card. People with fair credit scores may also qualify for the same. The approval process is usually less stringent. Retailer credit cards have a higher APR as compared to normal credit cards.
  5. Finally, retailer credit cards may offer extra customer service benefits. These could include extended return periods for any items bought on a credit card. Concierge services or fitting services are free of cost for credit card members.

Disadvantages of using retailer credit cards

Evidently, there are several potential disadvantages to using a co-branded retailer credit card. These may include:

  1. First of all, retailer credit cards provide the best discounts only at the retailer or affiliated retailers. This may be a little inconvenient if you shop at other stores or online at eCommerce stores.
  2. Next, these credit cards in the hands of frequent shoppers may spiral them into a debt spiral.
  3. These credit cards may charge higher APR compared to other normal credit cards. This can make them more expensive to carry a balance on.
  4. Retailer credit cards may charge annual fees or membership fees. They may also levy other fees such as late payment fees or balance transfer fees. As such, this can add to the cost of using these credit cards.
  5. Co-branded retailer credit cards offer limited rewards and benefits from the bank. Rewards credit cards by participating banks may offer better deals and rewards. For example, a retailer credit card may only offer rewards for purchases made at the retailer. A rewards credit card may offer rewards for purchases made anywhere. Similarly, travel credit cards may offer better deals and discounts on travel-related purchases.
  6. Finally, retailer credit cards may not be as effective at helping you build your credit history. They may not report the credit history to the three credit bureaus.

8 of the best balance transfer credit cards in 2023

Balance transfer credit cards allow transferring the credit balance of a credit card. This can be a useful option if you are carrying a high balance on a credit card with a high-interest rate. To reduce the amount of interest you are paying it makes sense to use a balance transfer card with a low APR. By transferring the balance to a credit card with a lower interest rate, card members can save money. This can also help to pay off their debt faster.

In order to, avail of a balance transfer, a member will need to apply for a balance transfer credit card. They need to provide the account information for the previous credit card. Next, the credit card issuer will then transfer the balance from the old credit card to the new one. There may be a fee for the balance transfer. Credit cards charge 3-5% of the amount of the balance transfer as a fee.

Applicable APR on Balance Transfer Credit Cards

It’s important to consider the terms and conditions of a balance transfer credit card before applying. Some cards may have restrictions on the amount customers can transfer. They may charge a high fee for the balance transfer based on the FICO score.

Balance transfer cards offer 0% APR for an introductory period. They may charge 0% interest on the balance transfer for 12-18 months. Card members should aim to make advantage of this introductory promotional period. It’s important to make sure card members can pay off the balance within the intro period. Any remaining balance will be subject to the interest rate once the intro period ends.

It’s important to note that balance transfer credit cards often come with fees. A balance transfer fee, which is a percentage of the transferred balance. The promotional interest rate on balance transfers is available for a limited time. After the introductory period, the interest rate will revert to the regular. Thus, it’s important to consider the terms before deciding to transfer a balance.

A balance transfer makes financial sense only if the money you save on interest is more than any fee you’ll pay to carry out the transfer.

Advantages of a Balance Transfer Credit Cards

Here are some of the advantages a balance transfer credit card offers to customers.

  • Lower interest rates: The main benefit of a balance transfer card is saving on interest. Suppose you have a high-interest credit card and transfer the balance to a credit card with a 0% APR or low APR. In that case, you can save a significant amount of money on interest charges.
  • Pay off debt faster: By transferring your balance to a credit card with a lower interest rate. More of your monthly payment goes towards paying off the principal balance. This helps a customer pay off their debt faster.
  • Merge credit card balances: Further, customers can merge balances into one account. This can make it easier to manage debt. Further, it can help keep track of payments. If a person has outstanding debts across many cards, it’s difficult to keep track of dates. Instead of keeping track of their payments and dates., it makes sense to transfer them to a single card account.
  • Improve credit score: Finally, customers can improve their credit score. Balance transfer credit cards can help improve the credit utilization ratio. The Credit Utilization Ratio refers to the amount of credit in use compared to the credit limit. By consolidating spending, it can help free credit limits on cards. Ultimately, it can help improve their credit score. This would help in improving their credit score over time. Also, read more how to build your credit score.
  • Other factors: A customer needs a high credit score for applying for a balance transfer card. To apply for a Balance Transfer card ensure that you are not applying for the card from the same bank. Banks do not allow the transfer of balance credit from their own credit cards.

0% APR credit cards

These credit cards run introductory offers of 0% annual percentage rate (APR). These APR run for all new purchases or balance transfers for a limited time. They don’t charge any interest on balance transfers during the intro period. They charge normal interest or APR, once the intro period is over. Cardmembers should be aware what is the applicable APR.

0% APR credit cards can be a useful option if card members need to make a large purchase. They are also great if you have high-interest debt and want to save on finance charges.

It’s important to note that 0% APR credit cards often come with fees, such as a balance transfer fee or a cash advance fee. The promotional 0% APR period is only available for a limited time. Thus, after the intro period, the interest rate will revert to the regular rate. So, it’s important to carefully consider the terms and conditions of a 0% APR credit card before making a decision to use one.

Nonetheless, these credit cards are a great way to reduce payment outlay. If you have a $1,000 credit card debt on the 18% card, you’d pay about $150 in interest over the course of those 18 months.

If you transferred the debt to a card with a 0% intro APR for 18 months, you’d pay no interest at all. Further, if you used the money you would have paid in interest and applied it to pay down the balance. You’d be debt free in a couple of months.

List of Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards or 0% APR credit cards

Here is a list of some of the best Balance Transfer Credit Cards which our users can consider. These credit cards are from top banks and credit card companies.

#1 Discover It Cash Back Credit Card

balance transfer credit cards
DiscoverIT 0% APR Cards

Introduction Balance Transfer APR: Discover It Cash back credit card offers 0% introductory APR. But, this introductory APR is for only the first 15 months of the credit card opening.

Regular APR after the Introductory period: 15.74% to 26.74% Standard Variable Purchase APR for all the balances.

Rewards: Discover It offers 5% cashback on purchases like amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations. But this offer is limited to $1,500 in purchases.

Annual Fee: $0

Balance Transfer Fee: 3% introductory balance transfer fee. This increase to 5% of the balance transfer fee after the intro period.

Our Rating: 3 /5

Pros and Cons of this card: Discover It Cash Back Credit card offers a great 0% introductory APR. This card though applies a fee of 3-5% of the balance transfer. Discover It offers the customer a choice of any of the 25 available beautiful card designs.

#2 Wells Fargo Reflect Card

balance transfer credit cards
Wells Fargo Reflect Card

Introduction Balance Transfer APR: 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. This is again a very good credit card with an effective 21 months 0% APR.

Regular APR after Introductory period: 17.24% to 29.24% variable APR thereafter

Rewards: Deals through My Wells Fargo Deals

Annual Fee: $0

Our Rating: 5 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Wells Fargo Reflect Card is one of the best 0% APR credit cards. Since it offers a long term of 18 months. Cardmembers can further extend this to 3 more months. In order to qualify they have to make a minimum balance payment on time.

Card members get 120 days period to balance the transfer and qualify for the intro rates. Finally, Nerd Wallet and Motley Fool have also identified this card as the best 0% APR credit card.

#3 Virginia Credit Union (VACU) Cash Rewards Mastercard Credit Card

balance transfer credit cards
VACU Platinum Card

Introduction Balance Transfer APR: 1.99% for 18 months for all new VACU Mastercard

Regular APR after Introductory period: 14.74% – 25.74% APR

Rewards: This credit card offers a 3% cash back on gas, 2% back on groceries and restaurants, and 1% on other purchases

Annual Fee: $0 in annual renewal fees

Other Fees: $0 in Foreign transaction fees, cash advances, or balance transfer fees

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: VACU Mastercard is an excellent choice for a balance transfer card. As it offers an introductory rate of 1.99% for 18 months for all new credit card accounts. Though, this credit card doesn’t apply any joining, cash advance, balance transfer, or annual fees. In conclusion, this is one of the cheapest cards with great cashback rewards as well.

#4 SavorOne Rewards from Capital One

Balance Transfer credit Card
CapitalOne SavorOne Card

Introduction Balance Transfer APR: 0% intro APR for the balance transfer. Though, these apply for new purchases in the first 15 months of card approval.

Regular APR after Introductory period: Post the Intro APR increases to 17.99% – 27.99% variable APR on the outstanding balance.

Rewards: This credit card offers 3% cash back on entertainment, dining, streaming services, and grocery stores purchases

Annual Fee: $0 annual or foreign transaction fee

Other Fees: 3% fee on the amount transferred in the first 15 months of card issuance

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Savor One credit card from Capital One is a good 0% Intro APR card. This card offers an introductory offer of 0% APR on the first 15 months of the new credit card. Though it does apply a 3% transfer fee on the balance transfer.

It offers a $200 cash bonus to the customers if they spend $500 in the first 3 months. Further, this card offers 5% unlimited cash back on hotels and taxis booked through Capital One Travel. It offers a great 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases.

Finally, customers have the option to redeem their cash back on Amazon.com. They can also redeem cash back on online stores when checking out through PayPal payment.

#5 Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit Card

balance transfer credit cards
Chase Freedom Unlimited Card

Introduction Balance Transfer APR: 0% introductory APR for the first 15 months. Though, this introductory APR is valid for balance transfers and purchases

Regular APR after Introductory period:  Variable APR of 18.74% – 27.49%

Rewards: 5% cashback on grocery purchases and 1% on other purchases. The total cashback reward is up to a maximum of $600 per year. members can further, get 5% cash back on pre-paid travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Annual Fee: $0

Balance Transfer Fees: $5 or 3% of the balance transfer amount whichever is greater. This introductory rate is valid on transfers in the first 60 days. Post, that the regular rate is applicable of $5 or 5% of the amount whichever is greater.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit Card offers 0% APR for 15 months. Although, this card has a higher APR once the introductory APR ends. In conclusion, this card offers good rewards though it applies $5 or 3% of balance transfer fees

#6 American Express Cash Magnet Card

balance transfer credit cards
Amex Cash Magnet Card

Introduction Balance Transfer APR: 0% of Intro APR for the first 15 months of the credit card opening on balance transfer fees or purchases.

Regular APR after Introductory period: Variable APR of 18.24% to 29.24% after the  intro period

Rewards: $200 of a statement credit on spend of $2,000 on the spend on new credit card within the first six months. This credit card offers 1.5% of unlimited cashback on all purchases.

Annual Fee: $0

Other Fees: Either $5 or 3% of the balance transfer amount whichever is greater. Either $10 or 5% of the cash advance amount whichever is greater. A 2.75% foreign transaction fee.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Firstly, Cash Magnet is a rare American Express credit card with $0 Annual fees. It also offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases through this credit card. This card offers 15 months of a 0% APR introductory period and $0 of Buy Now and Pay Later Intro Plans.

Further, American Express allows cardmembers access to their Experience Collection. This collection offers exclusive access to tickets and member-only events.

#7 Citi Double Cash Credit Card

balance transfer credit cards
Citi Double Cash

Introduction Balance Transfer APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months for balance transfers

Regular APR after Introductory period: Variable APR of 18.24% – 28.24% based on the credit of the customer

Rewards: 2% of cash back on purchases (1% on the purchases and 1% on the payment of dues)

Annual Fee: $0

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 and 5% of balance transfer fees after that (subject to $5). 3% of foreign transaction fees are applicable on foreign transactions.

Our Rating: 2 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Citi Double credit card offers cashback in 2 tranches. This credit card offers 1% cash back on purchase of the goods or services. Another 1% of cashback is offered on the payment of the minimum dues on time. The cashback is in the form of points. These points can be redeemed for statement credit, direct deposit, or check. Customers also have the option to redeem points on travel bookings, Amazon, or other shopping websites. This card does not provide any balance transfer APR on any new purchases.

#8 Citi Simplicity Credit Card

balance transfer credit cards
Citi Simplicity 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 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.

Our Rating: 5 / 5

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.

6 popular payment apps to use in lieu of cards in 2023

Credit Cards are still one of the best ways to make payments as individuals. Mobile payment apps and solutions are gaining popularity. For example, mobile wallets, payment apps, and QR codes. Most of the current mobile payment solutions mimic regular card readers. They use near-field communication (NFC) to send digital payments to card readers.

As per McKinsey’s 2022 Digital Payments Consumer Survey, 90% of Americans use some form of digital payment. They prefer apps like a wallet or p2p payment app. More than 62% of correspondences use many payment wallets or apps. The top form of payment wallet includes the following order issued by the bank, phone manufacturer, and/or a tech company.

Innovation and disruption are happening fast in the payments and fintech industry. Real-time payments are commonplace in many geographies including China and India. Now, these payment methods are also gaining ground in the US.  Apple Pay, Google Pay, and QR codes which are Tap or scan-to-pay solutions are growing year after year.

Here we will explore some of the popular payment apps. These are alternatives to old-fashioned credit cards.

1. Venmo payment apps

payment apps
Venmo App

The first app we would review is Venmo. It is a mobile payment app that allows users to make and receive payments. It is currently a part of PayPal Inc which acquired it in 2013 for $800 million. Venmo is available to download from the App Store or Google Play Store. The app can be set up in minutes to send and receive payments. It can be linked to users’ bank accounts or credit cards. Venmo-participating stores can receive payments directly from the app. It can also transfer money to other Venmo users.

It offers convenience and ease of use. Users can make and receive payments using their smartphones without carrying cash.

Venmo offers better security through encryption. The app has various security measures in place to protect users’ personal and financial information. It offers social features, such as the ability to add notes or emojis to transactions. It also has the option to share transactions on users’ social media feeds. This can make payments more fun and engaging.

It does not charge any fees for transactions. Members can use Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Bank Accounts, or Venmo Wallet. They charge a fee of 3% if payments are through a third-party Credit Card.

Venmo is available only in the USA. It requires both the sender and recipient to be in the USA. As Venmo is a mobile wallet and payment app, it is more suited and designed for small payments. As of now, there is a total limit of $60,000 per week. So it is not suited for large financial or business transactions.

2. PayPal

PayPal is one of the popular payment services. Investors Peter Thiel and Max Levchin founded PayPal in 1998. It is an online payment platform that allows users to make and receive payments. It has become one of the most popular payment platforms over the years across the world. Before the mobile wallets and Fintech waves of Web 2.0, PayPal was one of the popular payment platforms.

One of the main ways that PayPal has changed the industry is by making online payments more convenient and accessible. Before PayPal, online payments were often complex. Earlier users have to enter their credit card information on every website. Adding card details on many websites is risky. Users fear losing their financial information through bad actors. PayPal offers users anonymity with payments using their email addresses and password. Users do not have to worry about sharing their credit card information.

PayPal for Business payment apps

PayPal is more oriented toward business transactions, or payments for goods and services. It has changed the payment industry by offering extra services. It offers payment processing for merchants, credit and debit cards, and a p2p money transfer service. These services have expanded the reach and functionality of PayPal. It is one of the most comprehensive payment platforms.

PayPal is available in more than 200 markets worldwide. There are  400+ million Active consumer and merchant accounts in PayPal worldwide. It processes more than 5.5 billion transactions per year. The total payment volume processed by PayPal exceeds $340 billion.

Finally, PayPal has been in business for more than 20 years. It has acquired other Fintech companies. Zettle, Hyperwallet, Venmo, Simility, Swift Financials, and Xoom are part of PayPal. These acquisitions have helped PayPal to increase its in-store payment capabilities. They also have access to international geographies, security services, and other capabilities.

3. Apple Pay

payment apps, apple pay
Apple Pay

Apple Pay is a mobile payment and digital wallet service offered by Apple Inc. It allows users to make and receive payments using their iPhones, iPads, or Apple Watches. It is linked to users’ credit cards or bank accounts. Participating stores can receive payments through Apple Pay. It makes the use of Apple Pay easier for the card members as well as the merchant.

Apple Pay is not a separate card or a wallet that stores any money. Customers can add their existing Debit or Credit Card to Apple Pay. They can then use the NFC function of their phone and use the virtual clone of their card.

As Apple Pay uses encryption it offers security. The service uses various security measures to protect users’ personal and financial information. Apple Pay is highly secured as the card information of the user is not stored in the device or servers.

As per the financial research firm Bernstein, Apple Pay is leaping ahead 4 years of its release. It now accounts for 5% of all global credit card payment volume. This is due to the strong penetration of Apple iPhones in the new age of users.

4. Google Pay

Google Pay is a digital wallet and payment platform from Alphabet, Inc. It enables customers to pay with Android devices in-store and on supported websites, and mobile apps. Google services, like the Google Play Store, only use Google Pay.

payment Apps
Google Pay

It uses encryption to protect users’ payment information. All the information travels securely between the devices and the Google Pay servers. It uses an extremely sophisticated layer of security. This is called tokenization and cryptogram. These Security features help keep the customer’s information safe. This means that even if someone were to intercept the transmission, they would not be able to read or access the payment information.

Google Pay also uses authentication to verify users’ identities. It ensures that only authorized users are able to access their payment information. This can include methods such as password authentication, fingerprint authentication, or facial recognition.

5. Samsung Pay

Samsung Pay is a mobile payment and digital wallet service by Samsung Electronics. It allows users to make and receive payments using their Samsung smartphones or smartwatches. Samsung Pay is linked to A user’s credit cards or bank accounts. It can be used to make payments at participating stores or within participating apps.

It uses advanced technologies such as Near Field Communication (NFC). Samsung Pay also uses Magnetic Secure Transmission (MST).  This means that users can tap their phone on a payment terminal. They can also swipe their phone over a card reader to make a payment.

Finally, it offers security features, such as encryption and fingerprint authentication. It protects users’ personal and financial information. Samsung Pay also offers rewards and benefits. There are special offers and discounts for users who make payments with Samsung Pay.

6. Zelle

Zelle, founded in 2017 is another digital payment platform in the USA. It has become one of the most popular payment platforms in the United States. It is secure and easy to use. Because it is integrated with users’ existing bank accounts. To use the application, customers need to link their bank accounts to the Zelle app. They can then make and receive payments from their bank accounts.

payment apps
Zelle Apps

Users do not need to enter their credit card or bank account information on the Zelle app. This further reduces the risk of fraud and makes the payment process faster and more convenient.

It uses encryption to protect users’ payment information. It also uses authentication to verify users’ identities. It ensures that only authorized users are able to access their payment information.

Finally, Zelle allows users to send money to other users using their email addresses or phone number. It also offers a peer-to-peer money transfer service called Zelle in the Bank. This service allows users to send money to other users who are not registered with Zelle.

Best Payment Apps

Finally, there is no one specific app that is the best among the ones we have seen above. All these apps help users make payments without carrying cash or a credit card.