Technically, what rental car companies are offering you is usually not insurance, but a waiver. Basically, for a fee, you can waive responsibility for damage to the rental car while you have it. The benefit of this is that, if something happens, you can just return the car and be done with it. There's no claims process and no deductible to worry about. The drawback is that these waivers can be pricey and, depending on what's in your wallet and where you're driving, probably unnecessary.

If you already have car insurance and especially if you have a credit card that covers rental car insurance, it probably isn't worth the added cost. Feeling unsure about whether you should deny that damage waiver the rental car company is offering you? Here's what you need to consider as you decide.

Your regular car insurance likely applies when driving a rental car

If you already have car insurance, your coverage likely extends to a rental car. That is, whatever you'd be covered for when driving your personal car should apply when driving a rental as well.

But, there are always exceptions and the limits may differ depending on where you're renting the car.

If you're booking a car rental soon, call your insurer and ask the following questions to find out what coverage you have and whether or not there are any gaps you might need to address before getting behind the wheel:

• Does my current coverage extend to a rental car?
• If you pay for roadside assistance or other special coverage, too, do they also extend to a rental car?

If the answer is yes to both of these questions, review your policy just to remind yourself what is included.

If your regular car insurance is a minimum coverage policy, for example, you wouldn't be covered for damages to the rental. In that case, paying for the collision damage waiver might be worth it.

If you're driving this rental car for an extended period, it might be worth getting a quote to add collision insurance to your existing policy. Those waivers can get expensive fast, so it might be cheaper to just add the coverage to your policy.

You probably aren't covered if you're driving in a foreign country

If you're renting a car in another country, your U.S. policy likely doesn't extend beyond the United States (and sometimes Canada or Mexico). In this case, you'll need to check the insurance requirements of the country you're driving in.

Since you'll also probably need to apply for an international driving permit in order to drive there, you can check into insurance requirements while you're doing that. This is also something you can ask the car rental company about.

Your credit card might also fill any gaps in coverage

Many travel credit cards offer rental car protection as a perk. This benefit kicks in after your own car insurance pays out whatever it has to pay in an accident. While credit cards vary, the protection is usually similar to the damage waiver the rental car company wants to charge you extra for.

In most cases, activating this coverage is as simple as booking the rental with the credit card that offers rental car protection. If you're in an accident, it may reimburse you for any deductible you had to pay on your own insurance and it may cover damage or theft to the car you're renting.

If you have a travel card already, read the fine print on how its rental car protection benefit works and what it covers. If you don't, consider applying for a card before you book the rental.

Rental car reimbursement coverage is different (and not usually included)

If you're wondering whether your car insurance will pay for the rental car you need because you were in a car accident, that's a different story. Unless you made sure to add something called "rental car reimbursement coverage," you're probably going to be stuck paying out of pocket for that rental.

Of course, you can still decline the damage waiver because your insurance will cover you while you're driving that rental and, if you use the right credit card, you may not even be on the hook for the deductible if you're unlucky enough to get in another accident while driving that rental car.

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However, simply having a rewards credit card is not enough to unlock its full potential. The way you use your card and the strategy behind it determine how much value you actually receive from your rewards.

To help you get the most from your credit card, we’ve highlighted six common mistakes that could be holding back your rewards strategy and offer tips on how to avoid them.

Choosing the wrong rewards credit card

You can choose from many rewards credit cards designed for different types of customers. It’s important to carefully review the card’s rewards program to make sure you choose a card that’s right for you. If you don’t, you’ll find it difficult to earn decent rewards based on your regular spending.

As you shop around for a rewards card, carefully review how the rewards are structured and look for a program that aligns with your lifestyle. If you’re a frequent traveler who often purchases airfare and hotel stays, a travel rewards card can help you earn rewards on those travel-related purchases.

But if you rarely travel and instead use your card mostly for online shopping, groceries and gas, you’ll want to find a card that allows you to earn on those types of purchases.

Avoiding rewards credit cards with annual fees

Rewards credit cards are available with and without annual fees. It might seem logical to avoid cards with any annual fees, but in doing so you could miss out on some valuable rewards. Credit cards with annual fees often offer some of the most generous rewards programs, so you might miss out by avoiding these cards.

That said, it’s important to do some math to make sure a card with an annual fee makes sense, especially since some fees can cost $500 per year or more. Review your credit card statements for the past 12 months to see where you spend the most, then calculate what you would have earned on those purchases when using the rewards card.

If the rewards are close to or less than the fee, then the card may not be the right fit for you. But if you find that your rewards would be substantially more valuable than the annual fee, then it might make sense to apply for the card.

If you’ve had your card for a while and feel the fee is too high, you can always apply for a different card with a lower fee. Before you do, contact your current credit card provider. The provider may be willing to negotiate a lower annual fee to keep you as a customer.

Missing out on an initial bonus

Many rewards credit cards offer initial bonuses if you spend a certain amount of money within a designated period.

For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card offers new cardholders 75,000 bonus points if they spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months after they’ve opened their account.

These initial bonuses can be lucrative, so as part of your credit-card rewards strategy, avoid missing out on them. Plan out your spending and read all of the fine print to make sure that you’ll qualify for the bonus.

You’ll need to understand which purchases qualify toward the bonus so you can be sure that your usual spending will help you meet the bonus spending requirement on time.

Overspending with your card

The more you spend with your card, the more you’ll maximize your credit card rewards, but overspending will cost you, too. You’ll get the most value out of a rewards credit card if you pay off your balance in full each month, avoiding paying interest on your purchases.

But if you spend so much that you can’t pay that balance down, your interest payments could outweigh the rewards you earn. In the third quarter of 2024, U.S. consumers carried an average of $6,730 in credit card debt, according to Experian.

You could also be paying steep interest on your purchases. The average APR on a new credit card was 24.19% in October, LendingTree reports. Once you begin carrying a balance from month to month, those interest charges can add up quickly, making it harder to pay off your debt in full.

While you’re at it, make sure to avoid any purchases that require a credit card purchasing fee. Credit card purchase fees are often about 3% of the total purchase, and while retailers usually cover those fees, you could be responsible for them in certain instances.

If you pay bills with a credit card, like your utility bills, the vendor may add on a processing fee, sometimes called a convenience fee. Check with the vendor to see if there are any fees associated with credit card payments before deciding to put the charge on your card.

Letting your rewards pile up too long

Watching your credit card rewards accumulate can be satisfying, but don’t leave those rewards to sit for too long. Depending on your credit card, those rewards might expire after a certain amount of time or if your account remains inactive for a certain period.

Your rewards can also lose value over time. For example, if you’re accumulating points, your credit card issuer could change the value of your points whenever they choose, and you could lose out on value. To make the most of your credit card rewards, redeem them frequently to solidify their value.

Sticking with the same rewards credit card too long

Even if you initially chose a rewards credit card that was a good fit for your lifestyle and spending habits, chances are that your lifestyle will change over time. If you’ve had the same rewards credit card for five or 10 years, it may be time for a change.

Review your rewards program and consider whether you’re getting the best value for your spending. If you’ve been making your credit card payments on time, your credit score has probably increased, so you just might qualify for a new card with a better rewards program that will help you earn more on your everyday purchases.

How to make your rewards credit card work harder for you

A well-planned credit card rewards strategy can turn your everyday spending into meaningful perks, such as free flights or extra cash back.

To get the most from your rewards, choose the right card, use it wisely, and review it regularly to make sure it still fits your lifestyle. By avoiding common mistakes like missing bonuses, letting points expire, or keeping a card that no longer works for you, you can ensure your rewards deliver real value.

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Some banks and credit unions offer extra benefits on their credit cards to customers who have a broader banking or investment relationship with the institution. In some cases, you could earn hundreds of dollars in additional rewards each year.

Here’s how it works: Most credit card issuers also offer deposit accounts, and they may have investment accounts, too. Some of these institutions grant additional rewards or fee waivers on their credit cards to customers who also hold investment or deposit accounts.

In most cases, you must maintain a specified average monthly balance to qualify for the increased rewards. Or, with some issuers, certain credit cards are available only to applicants who hold a qualifying account with the card issuer or a partner.

The decision of where to hold your cash and investments depends on many other factors besides the potential to boost your rewards on a credit card.

But if one of these programs is available to you because of your existing status with a card issuer or one of its partners, it’s worth exploring whether you could be reaping the benefits.

Below, we’ve outlined the relationship programs from some well-known issuers.

Bank of America Preferred Rewards

One of the most long-standing and generous relationship bonuses is for Bank of America customers who are part of the bank’s Preferred Rewards program.

The program has four tiers, based on your combined average daily balance over three months in both Bank of America deposit accounts and Merrill investment accounts:

• Gold ($20,000 to less than $50,000)
• Platinum ($50,000 to less than $100,000)
• Platinum Honors ($100,000 to less than $1 million)
• Diamond Honors ($1 million or more)

Members of each tier receive increased rewards for their spending on eligible Bank of America credit cards. Those in the Gold tier get a 25% bonus on their spending rewards, those in the Platinum tier get a 50% bonus, and customers in the Platinum Honors and Diamond Honors tiers get a 75% bonus.

Most Bank of America personal and small-business credit cards are eligible, except for those that are co-branded with partners, such as the Alaska Airlines card. (Preferred Rewards customers enjoy other benefits, too, including waived or reduced fees on deposit accounts and lower interest rates on loans.

Thanks to the Preferred Rewards program, we deemed Bank of America a top choice for high-net-worth clients.)

Especially for those who qualify for the 75% bonus, the rewards can be exceptional. For example, the no-fee Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards card offers a standard 1.5% cash back on all purchases, which isn’t noteworthy.

But with the 75% bonus, you’ll earn 2.62% cash back, with no limits — a better rate on unlimited spending than you can get with other cards available from major issuers.

Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards, which also has no annual fee, offers a standard 3% cash back on a category of your choice (you select among categories such as gas, dining and travel) and 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs; the 3% and 2% rewards apply to the first $2,500 in combined spending in those categories each quarter.

You get an unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. With the 75% bonus, the cash-back rates rise to 5.25%, 3.5% and 1.75%, respectively.

Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite cardholders who qualify for the 75% bonus earn 3.5 points per dollar on travel and dining purchases and 2.62 points per dollar spent on all other purchases, compared with standard rates of 2 points and 1.5 points per dollar, respectively.

The points can be worth as much as 1.25 cents each toward airfare booked through Bank of America.

The card’s annual fee is $550, but it comes with a number of perks, including a credit of up to $300 annually for airline incidental fees (such as for baggage and seat upgrades), up to $150 annually for lifestyle conveniences (such as video-streaming services, food delivery, fitness subscriptions and ride-share services), and up to $120 to reimburse the application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

U.S. Bank Smartly Card

With U.S. Bank’s Smartly card, all cardholders earn an unlimited 2% cash back. Those who have a U.S. Bank Smartly Savings account plus qualifying balances in a U.S. Bank Smartly Checking or Safe Debit account, however, earn extra cash back on up to $10,000 in purchases each billing cycle. (After your spending surpasses that threshold, you earn the standard 2% rate.)

You get a total 2.5% cash back if your qualifying balance is between $10,000 and $49,999, 3% if your qualifying balance is between $50,000 and $99,999, and 4% if your qualifying balance is $100,000 or more.

If you hold at least $100,000 in eligible balances and spend $10,000 per month on the Smartly credit card, you could earn $4,800 in cash back each year.

The interest rate on the Smartly Checking account tops out at a negligible 0.005%. The Smartly Savings account offers a standard rate of 0.05%, but if you also have a Smartly Checking account, a Safe Debit account or the Smartly credit card, your savings can earn a more enticing yield.

By maintaining a combined balance of at least $100,000 in qualifying U.S. Bank deposit and investment accounts, for example, you could recently get a 3.5% yield with Smartly Savings.

PenFed Honors Advantage

PenFed Credit Union offers two credit cards with benefits for members of its Honors Advantage program. To be eligible for the program, you must maintain a qualifying Access America or Free Checking account or be an active duty, reserve, honorably discharged or retired member of the military.

Honors Advantage members who have the no-fee PenFed Power Cash Rewards card receive 2% cash back on all purchases, with no limits, instead of the standard 1.5%. And for those who have the PenFed Pathfinder Rewards card, PenFed waives the $95 annual fee.

This card offers 4 points per dollar on travel purchases and 1.5 points per dollar spent on all other purchases. Points are worth about 0.85 cent apiece if you exchange them for gift cards; if you use points to make hotel reservations, they’re worth a more attractive 1.25 cents each.

Other Pathfinder perks include auto-rental insurance coverage, trip-delay reimbursement, a credit of up to $120 to reimburse the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, complimentary access to airport lounges in the Priority Pass Select network and a credit of up to $100 annually for ancillary fees with 10 domestic airlines.

Citigold and Citigold Private Client

Citibank recently introduced the Citi Strata Elite card ($595 annual fee), and those who are members of the bank’s premium relationship program get extra benefits. If you qualify for Citigold, which requires a minimum combined average monthly balance of $200,000 in eligible linked deposit, retirement and investment accounts, you get a $145 annual credit on the card.

And Citigold Private Client customers, who must maintain $1 million or more in qualifying account balances, get a $595 credit the first year they have the card and $145 yearly thereafter. The bank offers the same annual credits to Citigold and Citigold Private Client customers who have the Citi/AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard, which has a $595 annual fee. (We recently named Citi one of the top banks for high-net-worth clients.)

Among Strata Elite’s perks are free airport-lounge access through a Priority Pass Select membership, four yearly passes to American Airlines Admirals Club lounges, $300 off a hotel stay of two nights or more booked through Citi Travel, and up to $120 in reimbursement for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.

The AAdvantage Executive World Elite card offers free access to Admirals Club lounges, a free checked bag on domestic American Airlines flights, and a credit of up to $120 for a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee.

Benefits Through Brokers

The Platinum Card from American Express exclusively for Charles Schwab. If you have an eligible investment account with Charles Schwab (including an IRA or a Schwab One brokerage account), you can get this version of the American Express Platinum card, which has a $695 annual fee. Besides the standard benefits that Amex Platinum offers (more on those below), the Schwab card comes with an annual bonus, depending on the amount of your Schwab holdings.

You’ll receive a $100 card statement credit if your qualifying Schwab holdings are $250,000 to less than $1 million, a $200 statement credit if your holdings are from $1 million up to $10 million, or a $1,000 credit if you have $10 million or more in your Schwab accounts.

Among the plentiful benefits for all holders of American Express Platinum are a $200 annual airline-fee credit, a $200 annual hotel credit, a $199 credit toward a CLEAR Plus membership (which provides expedited security screening at the airport), reimbursement for a Walmart+ membership (which provides free shipping from Walmart and other perks), $200 yearly in Uber Cash (for Uber rides and Uber Eats deliveries), and access to Priority Pass and American Express Centurion airport lounges, among other lounge networks.

Morgan Stanley Blue Cash Preferred American Express Card. Customers who have a brokerage account with Morgan Stanley or E*Trade can sign up for this card, which is a version of the standard Amex Blue Cash Preferred card. Brokerage customers get a $100 statement credit after they spend $15,000 a year on the card, which has a $95 annual fee (waived the first year).

Blue Cash Preferred provides an outstanding 6% cash back on select streaming subscriptions as well as on up to $6,000 spent yearly at the supermarket. It also offers 3% back for spending at gas stations and on transit (such as taxis, tolls and train fares) and 1% on other spending.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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My time on the credit card beat also informed my own strategy as a rewards card user. I charge most purchases on a card that has no annual fee and offers 2% cash back on all spending. (And, practicing what we at Kiplinger preach, I don’t charge more on it than I can afford to pay off each month.)

My husband, Tom, is also on the account, and together, we earn hundreds of dollars in cash back each year, which we deposit into our checking account.

Otherwise, I put restaurant and travel purchases on a card that offers extra points on each dollar spent in those categories. When I’m ready to exchange the points for rewards, I check the redemption values to make sure I’m getting a healthy return.

Many cards offer varying point values depending on how you redeem the rewards, so it’s worth doing the math.

My advice: Aim to get a value of at least 1 cent per point. Or, in other words, each 100 points should be worth at least $1. American Express Membership Rewards points, for example, are worth a penny each if you use them to book flights through Amex Travel, but only 0.6 cents each if you exchange them for statement credits.

Although rewards rates drive most of my decisions on which card to use for a purchase, I consider the card’s additional benefits, too.

When buying electronics or appliances, for example, I often charge them to a card that offers an extended warranty, in case the item breaks down shortly after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.

Premium rewards credit cards

I keep a couple of premium travel cards in my wallet, too. Thanks to Tom’s status as an active-duty military member, he qualifies for a waiver of the annual fee on some credit cards, and the benefit extends to me as an authorized user on his accounts.

For us, taking advantage of the many perks premium cards offer while bypassing annual fees in the hundreds of dollars is a no-brainer. (After Tom retires from military service, however, we’ll have to assess whether the annual fee is worth paying.)

One of the best benefits has been complimentary entry into airport lounges. Along with offering access to lounge networks such as Escape and Priority Pass Select, some card issuers are opening their own lounges, too.

Chase, for example, has been expanding its network of Sapphire lounges. Over the summer, I visited the sleek, expansive lounge Chase recently opened at Philadelphia International Airport. I ordered a fresh bowl of noodles with vegetables, which a server delivered to my table restaurant-style, and my kids played arcade games and shuffleboard while we waited out a three-hour flight delay.

Free wine, beer and cocktails, shower rooms, and private rest pods are other amenities you’ll find at many lounges run by issuers such as Amex, Capital One and Chase.

Judging by the responses to our annual Readers’ Choice Awards, many of you use rewards cards, too. If you’d like to share your strategies to maximize rewards or highlight your favorite perks, feel free to drop me a line.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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Offered by companies such as Affirm, Afterpay, Klarna and PayPal, these financing services split the cost of purchases into equal installments over a few weeks, usually with no interest charges.

“It seemed like a no-brainer to try it,” says Rogers, 51, a medical retail worker in Troy, Mo. “I like to spread out my payments for cash flow purposes.”

Buy now, pay later plans have been popular among younger generations — Millennials and Gen Zers — for a while, but lately BNPL has been taking off among the over-50 crowd, too.

Afterpay says the number of orders it receives from older shoppers has been rising recently, and 13% of Baby Boomers and 28% of Gen Xers have used one of these plans, according to a 2025 survey from financial services company Motley Fool.

Higher earners have been adopting this payment option as well, with nearly one-third of those earning $100,000-plus now using BNPL, a recent Bankrate study found.

“The conventional wisdom was that young people without much money and without much credit were using BNPL,” says Ted Rossman, a senior industry analyst at Bankrate. “There’s still some of that, but BNPL has also moved upmarket.”

Buy now, pay later plans can be a useful way to get extra time to pay off purchases, especially expensive ones, without incurring interest.

Those are the top reasons consumers, especially older shoppers, cite for using the services, Bankrate found. Younger shoppers were more likely to also appreciate the easy credit-approval process.

But research shows that because the plans make the price of a purchase seem less painful, they lead many people to overspend — a big reason, along with late fees, that nearly 40% of users ultimately regret opting for the service, Motley Fool found.

With credit-scoring company FICO announcing this year it is creating models that will take BNPL payments into account and more BNPL services sending data to the credit-reporting companies, it’s especially important now to know exactly what you’re getting into before you click on this payment option.

How BNPL works

Think of a buy now, pay later service like an old-fashioned layaway plan in reverse. Instead of making payments and then taking the item home, you get your purchase right away, then pay off what you owe over time, with the total typically split into four equal interest-free installments.

You make the first payment when you check out, then a subsequent one every two weeks until the balance is paid off at the end of six weeks.

Many BNPL providers also offer the option of longer-term plans, often ranging from three to 24 months, for larger purchases.

Instead of weekly, payments are due monthly, typically with interest that can range from 0% to as high as 36%, depending on your credit and income, factored into the bill.

To apply, you select the BNPL option at the retailer’s online checkout, answer a few basic questions about yourself, and supply a debit or credit card number.

Within seconds, most people are approved; the industry rejected only 22% of applications in 2022, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau found. Some BNPL companies may conduct soft credit checks, which do not impact your credit score.

Until this year, using a buy now, pay later plan didn’t affect your credit score either, as long as you didn’t miss a payment or end up with your debt sent to collections. But the industry is starting to change that, with both Klarna and Affirm now sending more BNPL loan data to credit-reporting companies such as Experian and TransUnion.

Meanwhile, FICO is incorporating BNPL data into two of its new scoring models this fall.

The impact is likely to be minor, though. According to a yearlong FICO study, the change to most consumers’ credit scores was within 10 points, higher or lower, after adding BNPL data, similar to the impact of opening a new credit-card account.

Even with the new changes, it will likely be a while before BNPL usage affects your credit in a meaningful way, in part because it takes a while for lenders to adopt the newest scoring models, says Adam Rust, director of financial services at the Consumer Federation of America.

And when it does have an effect, he says, you’ll need to use the service a lot, not just for an occasional purchase, for your activity to really have an impact.

How to use BNPL wisely

Tempted to try out a buy now, pay later plan? Experts suggest these steps to take advantage of the service without it taking advantage of you.

Know your billing schedule

Each BNPL loan has a unique repayment schedule that begins on the day you make the purchase.

With most services, you must set up automatic payments — and regardless of whether it’s required, it’s a good idea to do that and sign up for bill reminders to ensure you don’t miss a due date.

Nearly one in three users has lost track of payments, Motley Fool reports. That can be a costly error, because many BNPL providers charge late fees, commonly around $10.

Fight the urge to splurge

When stores add a BNPL option, it not only makes us more likely to buy but also raises the average checkout total by 10%, according to research published in the Journal of Marketing.

By splitting the payment up into smaller chunks, BNPL makes you “perceive costs as more trivial,” the research found. The plans also spur more impulse purchases, so Rossman advises waiting a day or two before buying so you can reevaluate with fresh eyes.

Set ground rules

Some BNPL shoppers use the plans to finance food delivery, groceries, concert tickets, clothing and other discretionary items with a short shelf life. Don’t be one of them.

Instead, Rossman suggests, restrict your BNPL purchases to higher-ticket items you really need so “you can spread payments out and isolate them from the rest of your finances” — say, if your refrigerator breaks and you need a replacement or you want to manage the cost of pricey dental work.

Limit your purchases to items you’re sure you’ll keep, because 14% of buyers have had problems returning items and getting a full refund, Bankrate found.

The CFPB issued a rule last year requiring BNPL lenders to follow the same dispute-resolution standards as credit cards, but the bureau has pulled back from enforcing that rule. If you’re unsure, pay by credit card instead. “Credit cards have far better protections than BNPL,” says Rust.

Stick to one purchase at a time

Three in five BNPL users have taken out multiple loans simultaneously, with nearly one-fourth holding three or more at once, LendingTree found. That makes keeping on top of payments and avoiding late fees more difficult.

“BNPL is already clunky, requiring you to track several small, constant payments,” says Rust. “If you have multiple BNPL loans from different providers, you just amp that up.”

Consider alternatives

Many credit card issuers also offer their cardholders BNPL services, such as Plan it from American Express and Citi’s Flex Pay. These plans allow you to separate some larger purchases from your balance to be repaid through fixed installments for a fee — often equal to 7% to 10% interest, far less than you’d pay on a typical credit card revolving balance.

Or, if your credit score is 670 or better, you might apply for a credit card with a 0% introductory offer on purchases. Those offers typically last 12 to 24 months, such as ones recently from the Wells Fargo Reflect and U.S. Bank Shield cards.

“Credit cards can be like power tools — really useful or really dangerous, depending on how you use them,” says Rossman. “The same analogy applies to BNPL.”

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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But those perks are paired with a fee increase; American Express increased the current annual fee of $695 to $895 per year. See Rates & Fees.

For some cardholders, the new and expanded perks make the fee increase worth it, but for others, the Platinum Card is no longer the great value it once was.

Breaking down the new benefits

The Platinum Card® includes new and expanded benefits across dining, travel, wellness and entertainment categories. Beginning September 18, 2025, cardholders will enjoy new benefits, including:

• Dining and Resy credits. Platinum Card® holders can earn up to $100 in statement credits each quarter (up to $400 annually) when they use their card at U.S. Resy restaurants or for other eligible Resy purchases. Cardholders also get access to Platinum Nights by Resy, which offers exclusive reservations at select in-demand restaurants. To take advantage, simply add your eligible card to your Resy profile and enroll to unlock Platinum Nights reservations near you.
• Expanded hotel credits and luxury travel perks. Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel® using the Platinum Card®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• Lifestyle and wellness benefits. The new perks include up to $120 in statement credits each year for auto-renewing Uber One memberships when paid with the Platinum Card® (enrollment required). Cardholders can also receive up to $300 in Lululemon credits annually (up to $75 per quarter) for eligible purchases made at U.S. Lululemon stores or online, excluding outlet locations. In addition, Platinum Card members who purchase an Oura Ring through ouraring.com using their card can earn up to $200 in statement credits each calendar year — though the credit applies only to the ring itself, not to subscription or membership fees.
• Digital entertainment credits. Cardholders can also receive numerous credits for digital entertainment subscriptions. Subscribers to Disney+, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Paramount+, Peacock, The Wall Street Journal, YouTube Premium and YouTube TV can receive up to $25 in statement credits each month when they use their Platinum Card to make eligible purchases.

Lounge access and status perks are still in place. American Express will be expanding its Centurion Lounge Network to include a Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Japan, and a Salt Lake City International Airport in Utah. Cardholders can access more than 1,550 airport lounges.

The math on $3,500 in perks

In total, the card offers up to $3,500 in annual perks. If you’re able to use the full amount, the higher annual fee could be worthwhile. But in reality, most cardholders will capture only a portion of that value.

For example, a casual spender might take advantage of the $300 Lululemon credit and, in their first year, the $200 Oura Ring credit. Add in the $155 Walmart+ benefit and a few digital entertainment credits, and their total value may just meet — or slightly exceed — the $895 fee. Still, it’s unlikely those perks will deliver significant value beyond the cost of the card.

By contrast, a frequent traveler could come out far ahead. They might use the $600 in hotel credits, the $120 Uber One benefit, and the $400 Resy dining credit, on top of earning 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels. Combine those with upgrades and Centurion Lounge access, and the Platinum Card’s value can easily outweigh its $895 price tag.

When evaluating the perks that you might get from the card, pay close attention to the requirements for each perk. For example, some credit card perks, like the digital entertainment credit, require you to enroll to receive the reward.

Other perks require quarterly use; the Resy credit is issued in up to $100 statement credits each quarter. The Lululemon credit is also issued quarterly when you make in-store purchases. You’ll need to read the fine print to make sure you’ll get the most value from the credit card perks.

Who comes out ahead

The American Express Platinum Card® offers the greatest value to cardholders who are frequent travelers, diners and lifestyle spenders. Individuals who have multiple streaming subscriptions, who frequently book flights and hotel stays and who shop at retailers like Walmart+ and Lululemon are best positioned to take advantage of the card’s perks.

Cardholders who aren’t large spenders or who don’t frequently travel will use fewer perks and may find it harder to justify the higher annual fee.

Our take on the new Platinum

The card's refresh delivers some appealing benefits, but they come at a cost. The Uber One, Resy and hotel credits are particularly appealing to travelers, while the digital entertainment and Lululemon credits are enticing lifestyle additions that many cardholders may be able to use.

That said, the Platinum Card® is a top-tier rewards credit card, and its fee increase is steep. Cardholders will see that the fee increase goes into effect at their next renewal date on or after January 2, 2026, for consumers. (The increase will take effect on or after December 2, 2025, for business cardholders.)

If you’re considering applying or renewing the Platinum Card, you’ll need to carefully consider how much value you’re likely to get from it, and whether that value outweighs the annual fee.

We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. We calculate a typical annual reward for each card, assuming $36,000 spent annually and less any annual fee. Interest rates, fees, rewards and other terms listed in this article are subject to change. Before you apply for a credit card, check its current terms and conditions with the issuer.

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A cash advance is a short-term loan from your card issuer, allowing you to borrow against your card’s credit limit, with no collateral required. You can typically get the cash at an ATM or a local bank branch. How much you can withdraw depends on your card issuer’s rules. Cash advances may be capped at a few hundred dollars or about 30% of your card’s credit limit.

You’ll pay an up-front fee, usually 
the greater of about $10 or 3% to 6% of the transaction amount. Interest accrues immediately; there’s no interest-free grace period, which most credit cards offer on standard purchases. And the cash-advance interest rate — often in the range of 25% to 30% — is usually higher than the rate that applies to purchases, says credit expert Gerri Detweiler.

Alternatives to a credit card cash advance

Not only do cash advances hit your wallet, they can also hurt your credit score. When you take out a cash advance, the unpaid balance counts toward your credit-utilization ratio — the percentage of available credit that you’re using on your credit card. If your utilization ratio rises because of the cash advance, your credit score may drop.

As an alternative to a cash advance, try asking your bank or credit union for a low-cost loan to help cover emergency costs, Detweiler suggests.

Another option: Open a credit card with a 0% introductory rate on purchases. The Wells Fargo Reflect card, for example, charges no interest for 21 months.

But if you take this route, be sure to pay off the balance before the 0% window closes. After that, you’ll likely owe double-digit interest on any remaining balance.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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Beyond savings, some cards can also upgrade your experience, offering late check-outs, resort credits and room upgrades when you book through their travel portals.

To show how much value these cards can deliver, we’ve broken down how much you could save on a $10,000 trip using two top travel rewards cards.

For spend categories, we kept things simple by breaking down costs into four categories:

• Flights: $3,000
• Hotel: $2,500
• Dining: $2,000
• Misc: $2,500

From there, we factored in special points, cash back and miles incentives for each spending category. We also included sign-up bonuses and annual travel credits where available, while subtracting each card’s annual fee to give a clearer picture of its true value.

With that in mind, let’s compare one luxury travel card and one lower-fee option to see how much each could save you on a $10,000 trip.

Platinum Card® from American Express 

Best for: Luxury travelers

Platinum Card® from American Express is one of our favorite cards because it offers many luxury travel perks to make up for its $895 annual fee. See rates and fees.

For starters, you might be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first six months of membership. Welcome offers vary, and you might not be eligible for an offer.

The conversion rate for this card is one point equals $0.01, meaning if you qualify for the 175,000 points, you'll earn up to $1,750 just for meeting this threshold, which your $10K trip would do. Here's a breakdown of what you would earn in each category:

In addition to these savings, you'll earn a $200 airline credit for booking eligible flights. Therefore, on a $10K trip, if you qualify for the highest intro bonus, you'll earn $1,750 for the bonus, $200 for the airline credit and cashback rewards of $320.

Subtract the annual fee of $895, and it leaves you a total savings of $1,375.

Bonus perk: This card earns you up to $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel® using the Platinum Card®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Best for: Regular travelers looking for elevated perks without the higher annual fees.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card works well for the seasoned traveler who's looking for a travel credit card with a lower annual fee. The card features an annual fee of $395, but also comes with plenty of cost-savings to help you lower your total trip costs.

The card offers a sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles when you spend $4,000 in the first three months of opening the card. This is a value of $750 at a conversion of one point equals $0.01. You'll also gain more savings for travel purchases through its generous perks:

Capital One also rewards Venture X cardholders with a $300 annual travel credit you can use on this vacation.

Breaking this down, you'll receive $750 for the introductory bonus, $300 for the annual travel credit and cashback incentives of $490 on travel expenses, giving you a savings of $1,540.

Once you subtract the annual fee of $395, you'll save $1,145 on your trip.

Bonus perk: Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary. This, coupled with your annual travel credit, offsets your annual fee.

Things to consider with travel credit cards

Before signing up for one of our top picks, there are a few things you should consider:

• Use wisely: Paying off your balance each month ensures you're maximizing your perks.
• You might not receive the best deal: Credit cards offer better perks when you book through their travel portals; however, they might not offer the best prices on bookings.
• Fees: If you travel overseas often, consider a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, as it can help you save significantly.
• Brand loyalty: Some travelers prefer a certain airline or hotel brand. Should this apply to you, consider a credit card with that company, as you can maximize travel perks much more easily.
• Consider travel habits: Examine how you travel and match your preferences to a card that maximizes value, such as Uber rides, car rentals, dining out and more.
• Is it worth it? For less frequent travelers, you might not use the perks enough to justify the annual fees imposed. If this applies to you, consider one of our best cash back credit cards that rewards you more for everyday purchases.

Overall, travel credit cards are expensive, but they come packed with valuable perks. As this example shows, both these cards can save you more than 10% on a $10,000 trip

In addition, it's important to match your travel needs to a card that maximizes your value. That way, you can enjoy the perks you want and save on future travel purchases.

As an independent publication dedicated to helping you make the most of your money, the article above is our view of the best deals and is not the opinion of any entity mentioned such as a card issuer, hotel, airline etc. Similarly, the content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of those entities. This article only reviews select credit cards. We may get compensation if you visit partner links on our site. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our website. However, our selection of products is made independently of our relationship to advertisers.

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Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine has taken the time to assess how you can find deals this year on investments, groceries, electronics, clothing, cars and travel, as well as how to take advantage of credit card perks — with a special emphasis on finding deals for products and services most prone to rising prices as the trade war evolves. In this article, we look at deals on credit cards. (See below to find links to our other articles about deals.)

Many credit cards offer money-saving perks that go beyond cash back, points or miles. Check whether your cards offer any of these four benefits.

International roaming data

Outside the U.S., your smartphone’s data service may be reduced to dial-up speeds unless you pay exorbitant fees.

But holders of certain Visa credit cards can take advantage of a benefit from GigSky, which provides international data services and works in more than 175 countries.

Each year, Visa Signature cardholders receive a free 15-day plan that provides 1 gigabyte of data, plus 20% off other GigSky plan purchases.

Visa Infinite cardholders enjoy a complimentary 15-day, 3GB data plan yearly and 30% off all plan purchases.

Trip delay insurance

When the airlines are at fault for delays and cancellations, they may be responsible for providing you with food and accommodations — but you’ll likely wait in long lines to receive compensation.

And when carriers decide that the disruption is out of their control, you will almost always be left to absorb the additional costs.

But the trip delay insurance that many credit cards offer will cover up to $500 per passenger, per night, regardless of the reasons for the interruption, as long as you charged the flight to an eligible card.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ($395 annual fee), American Express Platinum Card® ($895) see rates and fees and United Club ($695) cards all offer trip delay insurance.

Better yet, the Chase Sapphire ($95) and Sapphire Reserve ($550) cards cover your flights, even if you paid for them using miles earned through Chase’s rewards program.

Auto rental insurance

When you rent a car, some credit cards provide insurance for theft and accidental damage, as long as you book the reservation with the card.

Popular cards with this perk include the American Express Platinum Card® ($895) and American Express® Gold Card ($350), see rates and fees, as well as the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card ($95) and Venture X.

Chase Sapphire Preferred and Reserve offer primary coverage, which supersedes coverage from your personal auto insurance policy.

Cell phone insurance

Certain credit cards — including many from American Express, Chase, Capital One and Wells Fargo — provide insurance for a lost or damaged cell phone if you pay your wireless bill with the card. Coverage excludes cosmetic damage and typically comes with a $50 deductible.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

For Platinum Card® cardholders: Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company, at no-additional-cost to the Card Member. Coverage is subject to certain terms, conditions and limitations, including limitations on the amount of coverage. This benefit provides secondary coverage. For more information about the coverage, please see the Guide to Benefits at americanexpress.com/TDTerms.

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“Fraud happens to everyone, even the smartest people,” says Phillip Reed, an asset protection attorney in Kalamazoo, Mich. “The tactics have gotten so sophisticated.” The Federal Trade Commission says 2.6 million consumers were victims of fraud in 2024, with losses of over $12.5 billion, a 25% increase from the previous year.

New developments, such as artificial intelligence and cryptocurrencies, have made cybercrime easier and more profitable than ever. With a little preparation and knowledge, you can protect your money and identity.

1. Digital crime is costing people more

While consumers lost a record amount of money to fraud in 2024, the number of complaints remained roughly the same as in 2023. In other words, the average incident got more expensive.

“Today’s fraudsters are patient. They aren’t in a rush to get $100 from you. They’re waiting to get $100,000,” says Kimberly Sutherland, global head of fraud and identity at LexisNexis Risk Solutions.

Investment scams were the largest category of losses at $5.7 billion, while Imposter scams were the second worst category, at $2.95 billion. Someone could impersonate one of your friends or family members and request financial assistance. With AI, they can spoof voices over the phone. Online dating scams gain a victim’s trust online through what appears to be a dream relationship before asking for money.

Theft from online shopping occurs more frequently but is less expensive in terms of the per-incident loss, according to Sutherland.

2. Retirees have a target on their backs

People over 60 were the most likely age group to report internet crime to the FBI in 2023, and lost the most money. Thieves see this generation as an easier target.

“They didn’t grow up with this technology as kids,” says Reed. “It’s not that they aren’t paying attention, but it’s something they had to learn and are now facing new threats.” At the same time, retirees’ lifelong savings create a tempting opportunity for scammers.

If you have any doubts, before agreeing to buying or providing any important information, share your emails, texts and popup images with someone else — a relative or a friend who can help you determine if it's a scam.

3. Strong passwords are worth the effort

Strong passwords are a simple and effective security measure. “It’s like locking your front door at night,” says Reed.

Avoid short codes with easily guessable words, such as names, addresses and common phrases. Strong passwords are at least 12 characters long, use a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, and include numbers and symbols.

You should have different passwords for every account. And avoid writing passwords down in an easy-to-spot location, as the wrong person could peek while visiting.

If keeping track sounds like a headache, you could use software like Bitwarden and LastPass to generate and store randomized passwords for all your accounts.

Enabling two-factor authentication further secures accounts. You’ll need to verify any login through your smartphone with a call or text.

4. Be proactive with safety measures

Your phone, computer, internet browser, and other software frequently recommend updates. Stay on top of them, as these include the latest cybersecurity systems.

Check your bank accounts and credit card statements weekly for unusual activity. “Scams often start with small transactions first, so you don’t notice. Watch out for a 34-cent charge at somewhere you’ve never shopped,” says Amber Schiffert, a financial planner with TARA Wealth in San Diego. You also could set up account alerts to receive a text, email or in-app message for every transaction.

5. Watch out for imposters

Cyberthieves constantly try to impersonate legitimate services: a text message claiming that you owe money for unpaid tolls, a phone call pretending to be from your internet provider, a computer screen popup saying it needs to fix a virus, an email claiming to be from the IRS saying you owe money, the list goes on. Seventy-eight percent of people reported receiving mobile scams at least weekly, according to a 2025 survey from Malwarebytes, which sells anti-virus software.

Slow down and verify everything. Cybercriminals often insist that you must act fast — or the “deal” will pass you by or your credit score will suffer. If you receive a call, hang up and contact the organization directly. Avoid clicking on links in emails, and refrain from replying with private information. You may want to establish a family code word that you can use on the phone to verify identities in case of AI voice fraud.

6. Be wary of deals too good to be true

Cyberthieves create spoof websites that resemble the brand and appear to link to legitimate companies that aren’t. They try to collect your credit card number, cash and personal information. Before placing an order, double-check that you are on the correct retailer’s page.

The same applies to posts on social media and other online marketplaces for selling goods and services. “If you see someone selling Taylor Swift tickets on Facebook for $400 when the market value is $4,000, don’t fall for it,” says Reed, the attorney from Michigan.

7 Guard your data like cash

Your personal data can be used for identity theft. If someone asks for information to verify your account, push back and ask if it’s really needed, especially for something personal like your Social Security number.

Consider what you reveal on social media platforms. Things like your date of birth, your childhood hometown and pet names could be used to answer security questions to access your digital accounts. Thieves could also use that information to impersonate you. Considering making your social media accounts private, so only people you know see what you post.

8. How you pay online matters

Credit cards have fraud protection, backed up federal law. If you report fraudulent charges within 60 days of receiving your account statement, your liability is limited to $50.

Other digital payment methods, such as electronic checks and payment apps like Venmo, have much less fraud protection. You can try filing a formal dispute with your bank or payment app, but there is no guarantee of a refund. “Think of it like giving someone cash with these payment options. You better be sure,” says Sutherland from LexisNexis.

And if you send cryptocurrency, that’s likely irreversible given the hidden nature of these transactions. It’s no wonder that people reported losing more money to bank transfers and cryptocurrency transactions than all other payment methods combined in 2024.

9. React quickly to possible fraud

If you suspect a problem, contact the bank, credit card company or payment app immediately. “That first 72-hour window is so important. It gives them time to lock down your account,” says Reed. The sooner you act, the higher your chance of them stopping the fraudulent transaction before it goes through.

You should also change the passwords on any exposed accounts. If you provided personal information, especially your Social Security number, consider placing a credit report freeze with the three major rating agencies. “As long as you’re not trying to buy a home soon or apply for other new lines of credit, we recommend using a freeze. It’s better safe than sorry,” says Schiffert, the financial planner from San Diego.

10. Authorities want to know what happened

Report incidents of cybercrime to federal agencies through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center and the FTC.

These agencies could help you retrieve lost money and assets while taking steps to bring justice against the criminals. “People feel too embarrassed to report, but they shouldn’t. It’s how authorities and businesses learn what’s needed to protect others,” says Sutherland.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Retirement Report, our popular monthly periodical that covers key concerns of affluent older Americans who are retired or preparing for retirement. Subscribe for retirement advice that’s right on the money.

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And that was before the stock market took a plunge and tariffs shot up, both of which could kickstart another period of high inflation.

With key purchases and even necessities increasingly out of reach, going into debt might seem likely.

It's incredibly common already: According to TransUnion's Q4 2024 Quarterly Credit Industry Insights Report, American households had an average of $263,923 in mortgage debt, $24,373 in auto loan debt, $6,580 in credit card debt and $11,607 in personal loan debt, not to mention student loans or medical debt.

The Kiplinger Building Wealth program handpicks financial advisers and business owners from around the world to share retirement, estate planning and tax strategies to preserve and grow your wealth. These experts, who never pay for inclusion on the site, include professional wealth managers, fiduciary financial planners, CPAs and lawyers. Most of them have certifications including CFP®, ChFC®, IAR, AIF®, CDFA® and more, and their stellar records can be checked through the SEC or FINRA.

The problem? This debt can spiral out of control as interest payments pile up, making loans more challenging to pay back and credit harder to access. After all, Fortune reports, nearly 1 in 5 Americans have maxed out their credit cards.

According to the New York Fed, almost two-thirds of credit cardholders carry debt month over month, paying an average of 23% in interest — meaning these purchases are ultimately far more expensive than the sticker price.

While it might seem like a tough time to manage debt, the reality is that this is a crucial moment to get it under control. In the long run, handling debt effectively offers financial freedom, flexibility and the ability to weather hard times and enjoy your hard-earned money.

Here's how to get started.

Step No. 1: Avoid unnecessary debt

Steering clear of unnecessary loans might seem obvious, and it may not feel like helpful advice when you're trying to manage your existing debt. But especially when times are tough, it's worth remembering that just because you can access a certain amount of credit doesn't mean you should.

Consider what you actually need vs where you can cut costs.

For example, if you're looking to buy a house in the next few months, you may hear lenders refer to the "30% rule," which recommends that your monthly housing payment should not exceed 30% of your gross monthly income.

If you make $10,000 a month before taxes, you might think this means your budget is $3,000 a month and look at property that fits that price range.

A safer approach, however, would be to set a smaller budget that meets your needs, even if it means not getting everything you may want.

Instead of searching with the maximum allowable budget, look at properties with monthly payments that equal just 20% of your net take-home pay (or about $1,500 in this example, assuming a $7,500 monthly income after taxes).

The extra cash you save by avoiding unnecessary debt will not only give you financial breathing room, but also can enable you to pay back other debts.

Step No. 2: Calculate with clarity

To get a handle on how to repay your debt, you need to know exactly what you owe and when.

Assemble specific information about your balances, the interest rates on your loans and the terms of said loans. Calculate how long it will take to pay off your loans at the minimum monthly amount and how much interest will be paid to the lender under this framework.

If you're able, try to restructure your debt. Work with your lenders to see if you can get a lower interest rate. You should also consider whether consolidating or refinancing your debt saves you interest payments over time.

Once you have this information in hand, prioritize:

• Mathematically, debt with the highest interest rate should be paid down first to minimize the overall amount you will pay in interest.
• Emotionally, you can also consider attacking the debt with the lowest balance first, so you have a quick win to sustain you.

Whichever route you choose, you should calculate how much you are able to put toward repayment every month and commit to that plan.

Step No. 3: Make payments and boost income

Once you've done the calculations and finalized your payment plans, the next part is easy (at least on paper): Pay back your debt.

If you can, look for opportunities to boost your income, too, be it through extra hours at work, side hustles or a part-time job. If you receive bonuses or gifts, resist the temptation to buy something you don't need.

Instead, put that amount toward repayment. And if you're really ready to go the extra mile to become debt-free, you can even consider downsizing your home (including by selling and moving to a cheaper rental) or downgrading your car.

Looking for expert tips to grow and preserve your wealth? Sign up for Building Wealth, our free, twice-weekly newsletter.

Putting even a little extra money toward your repayment efforts each month can make a big difference.

For example, if you have a $10,000 credit card balance with an 18% annual rate, it will take more than 15 years to pay down that amount (and you would pay nearly $19,800 in interest alone) if you paid $160 a month.

But if you paid an additional $50 a month? You would pay off that debt in half the time — a little over seven years — and would save about $12,000 in interest. It adds up.

Remember, whatever amount you pay, make sure it's at least enough to cover the interest.

All too often, people simply pay their card's minimum payment amount without realizing it might not be sufficient to cover the accrued interest. At that rate, they'll never pay off the balance.

Short-term pain, long-term gain

Paying down debt will require short-term sacrifices, and it can take an emotional toll. But when times get tough, just remember: You're securing a debt-free future and your financial freedom.

I promise it'll be worth it.

This article, which has been written by an outside source and is provided as a courtesy by Stephen B. Dunbar III, JD, CLU (AR Insurance Lic. #15714673), Executive Vice President of the Georgia Alabama Gulf Coast Branch of Equitable Advisors LLC, does not offer or constitute, and should not be relied upon, as financial, investment, debt management or legal advice. Equitable Advisors LLC and its affiliates do not make any representations as to the accuracy, completeness or appropriateness of any part of any content hyperlinked to from this article. Your unique needs, goals and circumstances require the individualized attention of your own tax, legal, debt management and financial professionals whose advice and services will prevail over any information provided in this article. Equitable Advisors LLC and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice or services. Stephen B. Dunbar III offers securities through Equitable Advisors LLC (NY, NY 212-314-4600), member FINRA, SIPC (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN), offers investment advisory products and services through Equitable Advisors LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser, and offers annuity and insurance products through Equitable Network LLC (Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California LLC). Financial professionals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly qualified. AGE-7957140.1(05/25)(exp.05/29)

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This article was written by and presents the views of our contributing adviser, not the Kiplinger editorial staff. You can check adviser records with the SEC or with FINRA.

This is the largest annual fee increase on the card since 2016, per CNBC. However, to counter the higher fee, Chase said there will be more than $2,700 in annual benefits.

On top of this, the new fee won't go into effect right away. Thanks to the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosures Act of 2009, credit card companies have to give at least 45 days notice before employing new fees.

This means if you're an existing cardholder, the new fee won't kick in until October 26, which is when most of the new perks for you will start. The point boost redemptions begin on June 23.

If you're a new cardholder on or after June 23, you'll pay the higher annual fee, but have immediate access to all perks.

So what’s new with the card? And are the perks enough to justify the fee? We’ll break it down.

Chase Sapphire Reserve: What’s new?

New for the Chase Sapphire Reserve are elevated travel perks. Cardholders can earn up to eight times the points when booking hotels, flights, cruises, rental cars and activities through Chase Travel.

Also new, you can earn four times the points on airline or hotel purchases when booked directly. Speaking of hotel purchases, receive up to $500 cash back annually on hotel purchases booked through The Edit.

What’s The Edit? The Edit is Chase’s collection of premium hotels, where your points are worth up to double the value for redemption on stays or premium cabin flights booked through eligible airlines. Just keep in mind you’ll need a two-night minimum stay to qualify and any purchases made through The Edit don’t qualify for points.

Redemption for this program breaks down into two cycles. You can receive a statement credit of $250 for purchases made from January through June, and another $250 cash back in statement credits for purchases made the rest of the year.

Another new feature is complimentary IHG Platinum Elite status. With it, you receive:

• Reward stay discounts
• Up to 60% off stays
• Early check-in, when available
• You can roll over nights to next year
• A welcome gift
• Guaranteed room availability within 72 hours

Save on dining, streaming

Another new perk for cardholders is a $300 dining credit for purchases as part of the Chase Sapphire Reserve Exclusives Table Program. This program features 275 of the most sought-after restaurants in the country, from Charleston to San Francisco.

Redemption works similar to The Edit in that you’ll earn up to $150 in statement credits for purchases made from January through June, and up to another $150 for qualifying purchases for the rest of the year.

To use this incentive, you’ll need to sign up for an OpenTable account, which is a digital reservation platform. From there, add your Chase Sapphire Reserve card and find eligible restaurants.

Chase also partnered with Apple to give cardholders streaming perks. Starting on June 23, cardholders receive a free subscription to Apple Music and Apple TV Plus, a value of $250 annually.

Chase also added new incentives for entertainment and fitness. Earn up to $300 cash back on purchases made through StubHub or viagogo, with redemption broken down into $150 increments biannually.

Peloton users can work up a sweat and save in the process. Cardholders earn 10 times the points on hardware and accessory purchases, up to 50,000 points. And starting on June 23, you’ll receive up to $120 cash back annually on Peloton memberships.

Elevated spend perks

Cardholders charging $75,000 or more annually receive the following perks:

• Southwest A-list Status
• IHG One Rewards Diamond Elite Status
• $500 in Southwest Airlines credit when you book through Chase Travel
• A $250 credit to The Shops at Chase

Is the elevated fee worth it?

It depends on what your aims are for the card.

To demonstrate, if you’re an avid traveler, the $300 annual credit coupled with the $500 you can receive for booking hotels and flights through The Edit will offset the annual fee on its own. And keep in mind when you book hotels through The Edit, you receive other perks like a $100 resort credit, complimentary breakfast for two and room upgrades.

Therefore, the travel perks make it worth it if you use it enough. However, if you don’t travel often enough to make the annual fee justifiable, there are credit cards offering excellent cash back incentives on travel and other purchases without having to pay as much.

Of note is the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. It carries a much more affordable annual fee of $395, and you can earn 10 times the miles on hotel and rental car purchases made through Capital One Travel or five times the miles on flights and vacation rentals through Capital One Travel. You’ll also receive an unlimited double the miles on every purchase you make.

Therefore, while Chase's new card features offer many perks, there are other cards that give you many incentives, for far less of an annual fee.

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Beginning February 1, 2026, cardholders will no longer be able to bring guests into Capital One lounges or Priority Pass lounges for free. The credit card issuer is also taking away complimentary lounge access for authorized users added to your card.

While the primary cardholder can still kick back in Capital One’s popular lounges for free, you’re going to have to pay extra if you want your traveling companions to join you. The changes are sure to disappoint existing cardholders, but the new rules are still pretty generous compared to others. Here’s everything we know about the upcoming lounge restrictions and how you can adapt your travel plans next year.

Is Capital One Venture X lounge access going away?

Capital One Venture X cardholders will still be able to access airport lounges after February 1, 2026. The biggest difference is that any authorized users on your account will no longer enjoy the same complimentary access, and you won’t be able to bring in up to two free guests for free.

But your days of lounging with friends and family in a Capital One or Priority Pass lounge aren’t done. The card issuer said that cardholders can still bring guests in. It’ll just cost you $25 to $45 per person, depending on age and whether you’re visiting a Priority Pass lounge or one of Capital One’s own lounges. Though children under two still get in for free.

Those new guest fees are still cheaper than buying a single visit pass to the lounges, which normally costs $90 for visitors without a Venture X or Venture X Business credit card.

As for those authorized users sharing your account, they can keep their lounge privileges for an extra $125 per year. Authorized users who are currently enjoying their complimentary lounge access will see their Priority Pass Select membership expire on February 1, 2026, unless you opt into that additional $125 annual fee.

What should Capital One Venture X cardholders do before losing guest lounge access?

Even with these stricter rules, the Capital One Venture X credit card still has some of the most generous airport lounge access perks of any travel credit card. For example, travelers with the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express card just saw their Delta Sky Club access slashed to a handful of free visits per year – and they pay $50 per person for guests.

Still, losing free access is going to be a hit to cardholders and figuring out the best way forward will depend on how you use this particular perk right now. Here are a few things to consider as you brace for next year’s new rules:

• If you have additional authorized users who often travel without you, paying the $125 annual fee per user will be the most cost effective way to preserve their lounge privileges.
• If your authorized user typically only visits the lounge when traveling with you, it would be cheaper to pay the $25 to $45 guest fee if you visit the lounge fewer than three times per year.
• If you’re more likely to visit a Priority Pass lounge than a Capital One lounge, consider trading your Venture X for an alternative like the American Express Platinum card or the Chase Sapphire Reserve. Both include complimentary Priority Pass membership (along with access to their own branded lounges) and still allow you to bring up to two guests for free.

Bottom line

While the news is disappointing for existing cardholders, the Capital One Venture X credit card is still one of the best deals for travelers who love airport lounges. It has one of the lowest annual fees among credit cards that include unlimited access — especially for solo travelers who don’t often bring guests anyway.

But if you do visit airport lounges with guests regularly or share your perks with an authorized user, you’ll need to weigh the extra fees you’ll have to start paying against competing credit cards to see whether the Capital One Venture X still gets you the most value for what you’re paying in fees.

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Before it could be rolled out, however, Spirit Airlines urged the Department of Transportation (DOT) to block the deal, saying it "raises serious competition and public interest questions" in a complaint filed with DOT in June.

The complaint also noted the similarities between this partnership and the JetBlue-American Airlines partnership that the agency had blocked last year. Despite Spirit Airlines' concerns, DOT gave JetBlue and United the go-ahead to roll out this deal.

While the partnership is slated to offer a ton of perks and new ways to maximize your points, the features aren't all rolling out at once. In fact, most of the reciprocal benefits loyalty program members are expected to enjoy don't have an official launch date yet. The airlines said the timing on the rollout of these benefits will be announced later this year.

Now that the deal has passed regulatory review, here's what you can expect to roll out later this year or next year.

What we know about the United and JetBlue partnership

For customers, the biggest news coming out of the United and JetBlue partnership is the ability to earn or use points or miles on flights with either airline. This will significantly expand your access to award deals and give you the flexibility to earn more on a wider network of flights – all without having to deal with transfer fees.

But even without the loyalty program perks, the new partnership is set to bring new flight options to travelers. As part of the alliance, for example, JetBlue and United will share access to slots at JFK and Newark airports in the New York area.

The John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens was once a United hub, but the airline had to suspend its flights out of the major New York airport due to stiff post-pandemic competition from other carriers in late 2022. So this piece of the deal, which grants United up to seven round-trip flights out of JFK starting in 2027, is a big deal.

In exchange, JetBlue will have access to United's slots at Newark Liberty International Airport, allowing for up to eight round-trip flights out of the New Jersey airport.

Meanwhile, the deal will also see United's vast travel booking options merge into JetBlue's user-friendly Paisly platform, creating a hybrid travel booking portal that'll make it easier to plan and book your entire trip in one place.

Is United buying JetBlue?

No, United is not buying JetBlue, nor is JetBlue buying United.

Both airlines will remain independent, setting their own prices and managing their own schedules and networks. The two are simply collaborating with one another.

That independence is key to making this new alliance survive legal scrutiny. Anyone who remembers the now-defunct JetBlue and American alliance might remember that the partnership was dismantled by federal courts, which ruled that the terms of that alliance violated antitrust laws.

What the Blue Sky collaboration means for TrueBlue customers on United

If you're a JetBlue TrueBlue member, here are some of the perks you can eventually expect when you fly with United Airlines. (Note that there is no word yet on exactly when you'll be able to enjoy these perks on United flights.)

• The same priority check-in privileges your status grants you on JetBlue flights.
• The same priority security screening your TrueBlue Mosaic status grants you at airports.
• TrueBlue Mosaic 1 members board with Group 2 on United flights, while all other Mosaic levels board with Group 1.
• One free checked bag on United flights, and priority bag handling.
• The same eligibility to book preferred seats or upgrade to Economy Plus seats (United's equivalent to JetBlue's EvenMore seats) that you currently enjoy with your Mosaic status.

What the Blue Sky collaboration means for MileagePlus customers on JetBlue

If you're currently a United MileagePlus member, here's how some of your membership perks and privileges will translate to JetBlue flights under the new partnership. (Note that these perks might not be available to you on JetBlue bookings yet, but the airlines are planning to announce more concrete timing later this year.)

• The same priority check-in and priority security privileges your current MileagePlus Premier level grants you.
• Those with Premier Silver board with Group C on JetBlue flights while Premier Gold fliers board with Group B. If you have Premier Platinum or 1K status, you board with Group A on JetBlue.
• One free checked bag on JetBlue flights, and priority bag handling.
• The same eligibility to book preferred seats or upgrade to EvenMore seats (JetBlue’s equivalent to United’s Economy Plus seats) that you currently enjoy with your Mosaic status.

New Blue Sky perks rolling out for both JetBlue and United fliers

In addition to the ability to earn and use miles from either airline on either airline as well as the reciprocal perks for frequent fliers with status, Blue Sky will create a streamlined booking experience and new features for both United and JetBlue customers.

Here are a few highlighted in this week's announcement:

• You'll be able to see both United and JetBlue flight options when booking on either airline's website. That'll make it easy to compare options and find the best travel deals on your trip, although it does mean you should pay closer attention when booking if you have a plane preference.
• JetBlue's Paisly platform will host United's travel booking features, including all the hotels, vacation packages, rental car bookings and travel insurance options currently available on United's website. The move doesn't just consolidate the rival travel booking websites, but makes it easier for you to book. Currently, United's site is split into separate services for hotels, cars, cruises and vacation packages. Once it's migrated to Paisly, you'll be able to plan and book your entire trip in one platform.
• Business travelers may be able to enjoy the same terms (including any discounts) of a corporate program negotiated with one airline on flights operated by the other airline. That's especially exciting news now that both United and JetBlue are upgrading and expanding their first-class seating this year.

Can you merge your MileagePlus and TrueBlue points into one account?

No: While you will be able to redeem either balance at either airline, you won't be able to combine your existing accounts altogether.

That said, both loyalty programs do allow you to pool miles with family and friends in a joint account. So you will have the opportunity to earn your preferred points on an expanded range of flights – and then pool those with your spouse or traveling companions.

Which airline's points will you earn on bookings?

If you're a TrueBlue member booking on United, will you earn TrueBlue points or MileagePlus miles on the flight? If you're enrolled in both loyalty programs, how do you determine which program your points or miles will be credited to?

While no official announcement on these details is out yet, it's likely that it will work like other partnership agreements. That is, a MileagePlus member booking a flight on any other United partner would earn MileagePlus miles, not the partner's points.

For those enrolled in both programs, it'll likely come down to which loyalty program membership number you attach to the reservation. While you can't merge the accounts, that should still give you the flexibility to add to whichever balance you prefer, based on your goals.

Still, you'll need to wait on the airlines to provide more details on exactly how this will work before you can adjust your earnings strategy accordingly.

Can United Club members access JetBlue lounges and vice versa?

This is another detail we're still waiting on the airlines to clarify. However, it is doubtful.

Lounge operators have been cracking down on airport lounge access across the board in recent years, so a change that expands access seems unlikely. But, if you want to check out JetBlue's new airport lounges opening in New York and Boston, you can get complimentary access with the JetBlue Premier Card.

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When you have a freeze on your credit reports, lenders can’t view them in response to an application for new credit — and that helps prevent criminals from opening credit card or loan accounts in your name.

But as long as a freeze is in place, you can’t access new lines of credit either.

(Note that you can still pull up your own credit reports when they’re frozen, and lenders can check your reports to manage accounts you already have with them. Additionally, certain other entities, such as employers who want to analyze a job candidate’s credit history or landlords who need to screen a potential tenant’s credit, may be able to access credit reports while a freeze is in place.)

If you’re preparing to shop for a loan or credit card, you can temporarily lift your credit freeze. Just as with placing a freeze, lifting it is free.

How to lift your credit freeze

If you need to lift your credit freeze, ask the lender or institution which credit report it checks. You may get away with removing the freeze at only one of the major credit-reporting companies rather than all three (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion).

If you expect to apply with multiple lenders, however — say, because you’re shopping for the lowest rate on a mortgage or auto loan — you may have to lift the freeze with two or more of the companies.

If you have online accounts with the credit-reporting companies, you can use them to thaw your freeze; log in to your Experian account, Equifax and TransUnion.

Alternatively, you can call Experian at 888-397-3742, Equifax at 888-298-0045 and TransUnion at 800-916-8800. You may need to verify your identity by answering security questions.

In response to online and phone requests, the credit-reporting companies must lift a freeze within one hour (usually, it happens right away).

If you want a written record of your request to lift a freeze, you can send the request by snail mail — but it will take more time than the other methods. (You’ll find mailing addresses for each of the credit-reporting companies here.)

You may have to include identifying documents, such as a copy of your driver’s license, Social Security card or a bill that lists your address, says Rod Griffin, senior director of public education and advocacy at Experian.

A credit-reporting company must lift the freeze within three business days of receiving your request.

When you temporarily lift a credit freeze, you can specify how long your credit report will be available to new lenders for review before the freeze automatically goes back into place. You could set the lift for a single day if you know the date the lender will perform a credit check.

Otherwise, you may want to arrange for the lift to last a week or two to make sure lenders have adequate time to review your report.

During the window that you don’t have a freeze enacted, you’re more vulnerable to identity theft in the form of criminals opening new credit accounts in your name. So you should be extra vigilant in monitoring your credit reports for signs of fraud.

You can get free weekly online reports from all three credit-reporting companies through AnnualCreditReport.com.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards: Travel Credit Cards

These cards typically offer extra points or miles on travel spending. And many heap on additional perks, such as statement credits for hotel, airline or dining purchases. Readers rated travel rewards cards on the strength of customer service, the likelihood they’d recommend the card to others and overall satisfaction.

OVERALL WINNER: Platinum Card® from American Express

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

Platinum Card® from American Express comes with a high annual fee of $895, see rates and fees. But one survey respondent says that for frequent travelers, the fee “absolutely pays for itself” thanks to the abundance of benefits the card provides.
You get up to $600 annual statement credits on select prepaid hotel bookings (which may require a minimum 2 night stay) through American Express Travel, up to $200 statement credits for incidental fees (such as for checked bags or in-flight refreshments) with one qualifying airline of your choice, $155 (up to $12.95 statement credits each month) for a Walmart+ membership subject to auto renewal, up to $240 statement credits for certain digital entertainment subscriptions (including select TV streaming and newspaper subscriptions). Cardholders also get complementary access to several airline lounges, including Amex’s own Centurion lounges and partner lounges in the Delta Sky Club® (subject to visit limitations), Plaza Premium and Priority Pass Select networks (terms apply and enrollment required for select benefits).

Cardholders earn five points per dollar on prepaid hotel bookings through AmexTravel.com and on airfare purchases. Other spending earns one point per dollar. Terms apply.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

One reader says that getting a Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (annual fee $95) was a “no-brainer” because of its impressive welcome bonus (60,000 points, worth roughly $750 in travel booked through Chase) for anyone who spends at least $5,000 in the first three months. You also get five points per dollar spent when you book reservations through Chase Travel℠, three points per dollar on dining, two points per dollar on other travel purchases, and one point per dollar on other spending.

You can transfer points you earn to partner airline loyalty programs, including Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards and United MileagePlus, and hotel programs, such as World of Hyatt, Marriott Bonvoy and IHG Rewards Club.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Outstanding for:

• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has a $395 annual fee, but you can take advantage of plenty of perks to offset it. Chief among them is the $300 annual travel credit you receive when you book travel through Capital One.

You’ll also earn 10,000 miles, worth $100 in travel bookings, each year on your account anniversary. Hotel stays and rental cars booked through Capital One earn 10 miles per dollar, and flights and vacation rentals reserved through Capital One earn five miles per dollar; other spending earns two miles per dollar.

One survey respondent commended Capital One for its service: “The company is responsive to inquiries. Their website is user-friendly and easy to use.”

American Express® Gold Card

Outstanding for:

• Customer service

Like other premium cards, the hefty annual cost for the American Express® Gold Card($325) see rates and fees, is offset by a host of benefits. Cardholders get four points per dollar on worldwide restaurant and U.S. supermarket purchases (yearly spending caps of $50,000 and $25,000, respectively, apply to those rewards then drops to one point per dollar), three points per dollar on flights booked through American Express Travel, two points per dollar on prepaid hotel and other eligible bookings through the AmexTravel.com portal, and one point per dollar on other spending.

You’ll also receive up to $120 in Uber Cash annually and up to $100 statement credits when you dine at U.S. Resy restaurants and there are no foreign transaction fees, see rates and fees. Terms apply and enrollment required for select benefits.

Capital One Venture Rewards

Outstanding for:

• Most recommended

With the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card($95), you earn five miles per dollar spent on vacation rentals, hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One and two miles per dollar for all other purchases.

Cardholders also receive a statement credit of up to $120 to reimburse the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck and automatic Five Star status with Hertz, allowing you to skip long lines at the rental counter.

Chase Sapphire Reserve Visa

Outstanding for:

• Customer service

One reader with high household spending on dining out and travel says Chase Sapphire Reserve® Credit Card ($550) “offers a ton of value.” It rewards cardholders with a $300 travel credit each year for bookings through Chase Travel and access to more than 1,300 airport lounges in the Priority Pass Select network.

Cardholders also get 10 points per dollar on hotel reservations and car rentals booked through Chase Travel, five points per dollar on flights reserved through the portal, three points per dollar on other travel spending and on dining and one point per dollar on other purchases.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards Categories

• Readers' Choice Full-Service Brokers
• Readers' Choice Wealth Management
• Readers' Choice Cash Back Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Airline Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice Hotel Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice National Banks
• Readers' Choice Internet Banks
• Readers' Choice Auto Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Homeowners Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Annuity Providers
• Readers' Choice Tax Software
• Readers' Choice Peer-to-Peer Payment Services

Kiplinger Readers’ Choice Awards Categories

Best Full-Service Brokers

We asked readers to evaluate brokerage firms whose offerings run the gamut of services to customers, whether online, by phone, through in-person assistance at brick-and-mortar branches, or some combination. Readers rated the strength of their broker’s customer service, how likely they are to recommend the firm to others and their overall satisfaction with the broker.

The overall winner is Fidelity Investments.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best full-service brokers.

Best Wealth Management

These firms take a holistic look at your finances and offer advice tailored to you. Beyond assisting with investment strategies, advisers may help you manage credit and debt, savings, estate and tax planning, and more. Readers rated wealth managers based on the quality of financial advice they received, the trustworthiness of the advisers, how likely they would be to recommend the firm to others and their overall satisfaction with the wealth manager.

The overall winner is Fidelity Wealth Management.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best wealth management services.

Best Cash Back Credit Cards

Cash back cards usually offer simple terms and the opportunity to earn rewards on everyday purchases. We asked readers to rate cash back cards on the responsiveness of customer service, how likely they would be to recommend the card to others and their overall satisfaction with the card.

The overall winner is Fidelity Rewards Visa.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best cash back credit card.

Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards

These cards typically offer extra points or miles on travel spending. And many heap on additional perks, such as statement credits for hotel, airline or dining purchases. Readers rated travel rewards cards on the strength of customer service, the likelihood they’d recommend the card to others and overall satisfaction.

The overall winner is the Platinum Card® from American Express.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best travel rewards credit card.

Best Airline Card Rewards Programs

Airline credit cards reward brand loyalty. You’ll get miles or points for every flight you book with the airline, and with some programs, you can earn free airline tickets, access to airport lounges and other travel perks. We surveyed readers in three areas: strength of customer service, whether they would recommend the credit card program to others and overall satisfaction.

The overall winner is the Southwest Airlines credit card rewards program.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, airline credit card rewards programs.

Best Hotel Credit Cards Rewards Programs

As with airline card programs, hotel credit card programs reward you for being loyal to a particular hotel chain. The more you stay, the more perks you can receive, such as free nights, upgraded rooms, late checkouts and more. These hotel credit card programs earned top marks from our readers, who rated the programs on the strength of customer service, the likelihood they’d recommend the program to others and overall satisfaction.

The overall winner is the Marriott Bonvoy credit card program.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice 2025, Hotel Credit Card Rewards Programs.

Best National Banks

These large institutions have a presence in many states and offer branches where you can conduct transactions. We assessed readers’ overall satis­faction with their bank, their opinion of its customer service and the like­lihood they would recommend the bank to others.

The overall winner is Chase Bank.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best national banks.

Best Internet Banks

Internet banks often provide higher yields than their brick-and-mortar counterparts. The reason? Internet banks don’t have physical locations, so their overhead costs are lower, allowing them to pay out better rates. Survey respondents judged these institutions on customer service, how likely they would be to recommend the bank to others and how satisfied they are overall with the bank.

The overall winner is Charles Schwab Bank.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best internet banks.

Best Auto Insurance Companies

We asked readers to weigh in on auto insurance, judging their primary provider based on how competitive the rates are, their experience with filing claims and how likely they are to recommend the insurer to others. The following companies stood out from the rest in our survey.

The overall winner is USAA.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, auto insurance companies.

Best Homeowners Insurance Companies

Readers rated their homeowners insurance provider based on how competitive the rates are, how positive the experience is when filing a claim and how likely they would be to recommend the insurance company to others. Most of the providers that collected accolades for homeowners insurance are also honorees for their auto insurance services.

The overall winner is USAA.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, homeowners insurance companies.

Best Annuity Providers

Annuities are contracts that allow you to pay an amount up front or over time in exchange for the opportunity to create a steady stream of income in retirement; they may be fixed or variable, and they may provide income immediately or in the future. We asked readers to assess their annuity provider based on customer service, their overall satisfaction with the company and how likely they are to recommend it to others.

The overall winner is New York Life.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best annuity providers.

Best Tax Software

These programs guide taxpayers through the ins and outs of preparing and filing a tax return. The offerings vary depending on your return’s complexity and whether you want help from a tax pro. We asked readers to rate their preferred tax-filing software based on ease of use, how likely they are to recommend the service to others and overall satisfaction with it.

The overall winner is FreeTaxUSA.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, tax software.

Best Peer-To-Peer Payment Apps

Peer-to-peer payment apps allow you to digitally send and receive money with friends and family from your smartphone. We asked readers to evaluate their preferred payment app’s ease of use, their overall satisfaction with it and how likely they are to recommend it to others.

The overall winner is Apple Cash.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best peer-to-peer payment apps.

How Readers Chose Their Winners

Kiplinger readers were invited to take the Readers’ Choice Awards survey on Kiplinger.com between February 20 and March 21, 2025. The survey asked respondents to choose the financial product or service that they most frequently use in 13 categories: full-service brokerage firms, wealth managers, cash-back credit cards, travel rewards credit cards, airline credit card rewards programs, hotel credit card rewards programs, national banks, internet banks, auto insurers, homeowners insurers, annuity providers, tax software and peer-to-peer payment services.

We asked readers to rate each provider they selected on a scale of one to 10 based on a few criteria. In many categories, readers rated the strength of customer service, how likely they would be to recommend the product or service to others, and how satisfied they are overall with the provider.

In some categories, we included more-nuanced criteria. With wealth management firms, we asked respondents to rate the trustworthiness of a firm’s advisers and the quality of its financial advice. For peer-to-peer payment apps and tax software, respondents evaluated ease of use, and for auto and home insurance companies, readers judged the competitiveness of rates and strength of the claims experience.

We calculated an average (mean) score for each criterion with each provider. We also calculated an overall mean score for all providers for each criterion we asked readers to judge. We compared individual provider mean scores with the overall mean, and the three highest-scoring pro­viders that had a score above the overall mean won an “outstanding” accolade; in cases of a tie, more than three providers are named, and if fewer than three qualifying providers achieved an above-average score, only those providers are named “outstanding.”

In each category, providers are generally listed in descending order by the number of criteria for which they received the “outstanding” designation — so a product or company that is deemed “outstanding” in three areas, for example, is listed before a provider with one or two “outstanding” awards.

To choose an overall winner in each category, we added together the mean scores for each criterion rated for each product or service. The provider with the highest total score in each category took the prize for overall winner.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards Categories

• Readers' Choice Full-Service Brokers
• Readers' Choice Wealth Management
• Readers' Choice Cash Back Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Travel Rewards Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Airline Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice Hotel Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice National Banks
• Readers' Choice Internet Banks
• Readers' Choice Auto Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Homeowners Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Annuity Providers
• Readers' Choice Tax Software
• Readers' Choice Peer-to-Peer Payment Services

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards: Airline Card Rewards Programs

Airline credit cards reward brand loyalty. You’ll get miles or points for every flight you book with the airline, and with some programs, you can earn free airline tickets, access to airport lounges and other travel perks.

We surveyed readers in three areas: strength of customer service, whether they would recommend the credit card program to others and overall satisfaction.

OVERALL WINNER: Southwest Airlines Cards

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

Southwest offers a trio of consumer credit cards tied to its Rapid Rewards loyalty program. And now that Southwest is charging fees for checked luggage, cardholders get a new perk: one free checked bag for you and up to eight passengers.

The credit cards, issued by Chase, come with varying annual fees and rewards, including a heap of bonus points on each yearly cardmember anniversary: 3,000 points with the Rapid Rewards Plus card ($69 annual fee), 6,000 points with Premier ($99) and 7,500 points with Priority ($149).

The Priority card also comes with four upgraded boardings per year (when available) and a $75 Southwest travel credit, among other benefits. One reader says, “The points bonus for signing up was incredibly high.” (Recently, all three cards offered a 50,000-point bonus if you spend $1,000 in the first three months.) “Plus, getting a free upgrade to Business Select was nice.”

Delta Air Lines Cards

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

The Delta SkyMiles program features four credit cards issued by American Express: Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card , Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card and Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card.

One reader praises the program for offering “lots of features and benefits” that go beyond the miles you earn on purchases.

Benefits vary by card, with the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve card providing the most perks in exchange for the high annual fee ($650). Perks include a companion certificate (which allows an additional passenger to fly with you once per year on a round-trip flight within the U.S. and to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America, taxes and fees apply), access to Amex’s Centurion airport lounges and 15 visits to Delta Sky Club lounges each year. Rates and fees apply.

JetBlue Cards

Outstanding for:

• Overall satisfaction

JetBlue offers a few consumer credit cards, issued by Barclays: the JetBlue Card, JetBlue Plus ($99) and JetBlue Premier ($499). All the cards provide a 50% discount on in-flight refreshments, and the Plus and Premier cards offer a 5,000-point bonus on your yearly cardmember anniversary and one free checked bag for you and up to three other passengers.

With all JetBlue cards, you can pool points you earn with friends and family to get more travel perks.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards Categories

• Readers' Choice Full-Service Brokers
• Readers' Choice Wealth Management
• Readers' Choice Cash Back Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Travel Rewards Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Hotel Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice National Banks
• Readers' Choice Internet Banks
• Readers' Choice Auto Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Homeowners Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Annuity Providers
• Readers' Choice Tax Software
• Readers' Choice Peer-to-Peer Payment Services

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards: Hotel Credit Card Rewards Programs

As with airline card programs, hotel credit card programs reward you for being loyal to a particular hotel chain. The more you stay, the more perks you can receive, such as free nights, upgraded rooms, late checkouts and more.

These hotel credit card programs earned top marks from our readers, who rated the programs on the strength of customer service, the likelihood they’d recommend the program to others, and overall satisfaction.

OVERALL WINNER: Marriott Bonvoy cards

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

Marriott’s program features four credit cards. Two are issued by Chase Bank and two by American Express.

• The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card ($95, see rates and fees)
• The Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card ($0, see rates and fees)
• The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card ($250, see rates and fees )
• The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card($695 fee, see rates and fees)

One reader commends the program for offering quick and easy point redemptions. “The points are usable at any hotel almost immediately for an available room on the same day. Very, very flexible.” You can also transfer points to the frequent flier programs of 39 airlines, including American, Delta, Southwest and United.

The cards offer extra points when you stay at Marriott properties. And all but the Bold card come with a free night award each year, either after your account anniversary or after you spend a certain amount on the card.

World of Hyatt Credit Card

Outstanding for:

• Most recommended

Issued by Chase, the World of Hyatt card ($95) provides nine points per dollar spent on Hyatt stays, two points per dollar on travel and dining purchases, and one point per dollar on other spending.

Each year on your cardmember anniversary, you get a free night at an eligible Hyatt hotel or resort, and you can earn an extra free night by charging at least $15,000 annually on the card. Plus, cardholders get complimentary Wi-Fi and late checkout of 2 p.m. (when available) during Hyatt stays.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards Categories

• Readers' Choice Full-Service Brokers
• Readers' Choice Wealth Management
• Readers' Choice Cash Back Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Travel Rewards Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Airline Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice National Banks
• Readers' Choice Internet Banks
• Readers' Choice Auto Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Homeowners Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Annuity Providers
• Readers' Choice Tax Software
• Readers' Choice Peer-to-Peer Payment Services

By voting, our community has helped us form our guide to the very best financial products. These are the cash back credit cards that you think stand out from the crowd.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards: Cash Back Rewards

Cash back cards usually offer simple terms and the opportunity to earn rewards on everyday purchases. We asked readers to rate cash back cards on the responsiveness of customer service, how likely they would be to recommend the card to others and their overall satisfaction with the card.

OVERALL WINNER: Fidelity Rewards Visa

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

The Fidelity Rewards Visa reigns as readers’ favorite cash back credit card for the third year in a row, and it’s easy to see why. The card features 2% back on all purchases as long as you deposit rewards into qualifying Fidelity accounts, such as a brokerage account, health savings account, 529 college-savings plan or a donor-advised fund.

“Nothing could be simpler,” says one reader. Another expressed appreciation for the ease of reaching a human in the card’s customer service department: “I can always get live help, not just a robot.”

Costco Anywhere Visa

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

The Costco Anywhere Visa proved popular with readers. One remarked, “Best card in my wallet. No rotating categories to keep track of. Just simple rewards on everyday items we all use all the time.”

Cardholders earn 5% cash back on gas at Costco stations and 4% on other gas purchases and electric-vehicle charging; the 5% and 4% rewards apply to the first $7,000 charged each year, and you get 1% thereafter.

You’ll also earn 3% on restaurant and travel purchases, including Costco Travel; 2% back on other Costco purchases; and 1% back on everything else.

Citi Double Cash Mastercard

Outstanding for:

• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

Citi Double Cash offers a total 2% cash back on all spending: 1% when you make a purchase and another 1% once you pay it off.

As one reader notes, “It's the easiest way to get straight cash back on every purchase as long as you pay it off every month. This is our everyday, go-to card for most purchases.”

USAA Preferred Cash Rewards Visa

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended

This card from USAA offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases, with no category restrictions. If you have USAA car insurance, you can receive up to $200 reimbursement on your deductible paid for a covered loss.

To qualify for this perk, you need to have made at least eight purchases in the previous month with the card. To open a USAA credit card, you must be an active-duty military member, a veteran, or an eligible family member such as a spouse or child.

Discover It

Outstanding for:

• Customer service

Readers appreciate Discover It particularly for the responsiveness of its customer service team. One remarked, “I've had very few issues over the years, and whenever a fraudulent charge or any other issue came up, it was always solved quickly and to my satisfaction.”

Discover It offers 5% cash back on up to $1,500 spent in categories that change each quarter, such as grocery stores, restaurants and gas stations; other purchases earn 1% back.

U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa

Outstanding for:

• Overall satisfaction

The U.S. Bank Cash+ card lets you choose two categories that earn up to 5% back on up to $2,000 spent quarterly. The categories you can choose from include streaming services, utilities, department or electronics stores, and gyms, among other options.

Earn 2% back on one other category of your choice — including dining, groceries, and gas and EV-charging stations — and 1% back on all other purchases.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards Categories

• Readers' Choice Full-Service Brokers
• Readers' Choice Wealth Management
• Readers' Choice Travel Rewards Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Airline Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice Hotel Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice National Banks
• Readers' Choice Internet Banks
• Readers' Choice Auto Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Homeowners Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Annuity Providers
• Readers' Choice Tax Software
• Readers' Choice Peer-to-Peer Payment Services

After all, why pay a bank to use their credit card? But over time, my approach changed once I realized how many perks cards with fees have to offer.

Case in point: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card comes with a $395 annual fee. That might seem steep on the surface, but I've found it pays itself back. Here's how you can use the card's travel perks to offset its annual fee.

1. Take advantage of the intro bonus

Many credit cards come with intro bonuses, where if you spend a certain amount, you receive a bonus. The bonuses can be in the form of cash back, points or miles. This is a great way to use the card on everyday purchases and be rewarded for expenses you were going to make anyways.

The Capital One Venture X card offers an excellent intro bonus. For a limited time, earn 100,000 bonus miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 6 months from account opening - equal to $1,000 in travel.

2. Maximizing miles redemption

The intro bonus is nice, but if you're like me, you might be wondering if you will get enough use out of the card to justify its annual fee after the first year.

This is where elevated travel rewards cards like Capital One Venture X really excel. The card allows you to earn an unlimited 10 miles per dollar for hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; five miles per dollar on vacation rentals and flights purchased through Capital One Travel and two miles per dollar for all other purchases.

So, what are miles worth? It depends on how you redeem them.

You can redeem miles for travel purchases through the Capital One portal at a rate of one cent per mile. That's not great on the surface, but if you travel regularly and book most aspects of your travel, especially flights and hotels through Capital One, these rewards can add up fast.

You can also use these miles at the same ratio to pay for previous travel booked the last 90 days through Capital One.

Further, you can transfer your Capital One miles to other participating airline and hotel programs, like Wyndham Rewards or Air Canada Aeroplan®, with most having a 1:1 ratio.

Here's an illustration of how transferring works: You earned the Venture X intro bonus of 100,000 miles and transfer them to your Wyndam Rewards account. You'll have 100,000 points to use, entitling you to two free nights at the Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen Adults Only All Inclusive in Mexico.

Wyndam offers free nights on resorts worldwide at 30,000 points per night. This illustration shows you can really elevate your trips the more you use your card.

Other redemption methods include using your miles for Amazon purchases, at a rate of 0.8 cents per mile. The less ideal option is to cash out your miles for a check or statement credit, as the rate of redemption is half a cent per mile.

Overall, the cash-back rewards are going to work best for avid travelers. However, if you only take a few trips per year, there are other ways to offset the annual fee.

3. Anniversary bonuses for the win

Capital One rewards its Venture X cardholders with two anniversary bonuses every year you have an active account.

The first is a $300 annual credit to use through Capital One Travel. The best news is there are no spending hoops to jump through. It's just a perk for having the card.

The other bonus is every year you have an active Venture X card, Capital One gives you 10,000 miles, starting on the first anniversary of opening the card. That's akin to $100 in travel credits every year.

Combined, these two anniversary bonuses give you $400 in travel credits, thus easily offsetting the $395 annual fee.

4. Elevated travel perks

The Capital One Venture X card elevates stays with an abundance of travel perks. And when you book through their Premier Collection, not only will you stay at exceptional hotels, you'll also earn perks that make the trip more enjoyable.

To demonstrate, say you want a weekend getaway at the Regent Santa Monica Beach. Using the Venture X card, you could book the hotel through Capital One Travel to earn 10 times the miles.

Given the hotel's average price is around $800 per night, you'll earn 8,000 points, or $80 in travel credits for every night you stay there. On top of that, you'll gain the following:

• A $100 experience credit you can use for eligible purchases during your stay
• Free breakfast for two
• Room upgrades when eligible
• Early check in and late check out
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Is the Capital One Venture X card worth its fee?

The Capital One Venture X card comes with tons of perks to elevate your travel. And therein lies the key: This card works best for avid travelers.

If you travel often, then the perks do offset the annual fee, provided you book your trips through Capital One Travel or transfer the miles to participating airlines or hotels.

Along with the generous miles for hotel and flight purchases, you'll earn anniversary bonuses that will continually offset your annual fee for as long as you have the card.

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Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has instituted hiring freezes, mass layoffs and reorganizations at agencies such as the IRS, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Social Security Administration.

In addition, the president dismissed several Democratic agency commissioners and signed an executive order requiring government agencies to identify 10 existing rules, regulations or guidance documents to be repealed for every new one issued.

Supporters applaud the push for reduced bureaucracy. Critics are concerned about weakened consumer protections and DOGE’s potential access to sensitive consumer data, such as Social Security numbers.

Some of the latest initiatives await congressional approval or are tied up in court battles. Still, one thing is clear: It’s an ideal time to review your financial safeguards and get tax records and other paperwork organized, and remain informed about changes coming down the pike. Here’s what to do.

Be discerning when reviewing financial offers

Especially with the CFPB under fire, it’s critical to be your own consumer advocate. Scrutinize the fine print of any offers you receive, such as those for a mortgage or credit card.

Look up online reviews and ratings for lenders and other financial service providers, and seek a second opinion — from a trusted financial professional, for example — before making any major decisions.

Also, watch for signs of a scam, such as getting an offer that seems too good to be true or that comes with pressure to act quickly.

Stay on top of your taxes

If you need assistance from the IRS — say, to get help with fraudulent activity or adjust a payment plan — act right away. Reduced IRS staffing could lead to longer phone hold times and fewer options for in-person assistance.

Make sure all tax-related paperwork is in order so that if you need to resolve an issue, the process can go as smoothly as possible.

Keep a paper trail

In addition to saving tax-related documents, hold on to copies of other important financial records, such as service agreements, receipts and reference numbers, as well as copies of e-mail correspondence and online chats with businesses.

This material may serve as evidence that can help you win your case if you need to resolve issues such as a dispute involving a bill or financial statement or a rejection of a warranty or insurance claim.

Strengthen your financial protections

Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all financial accounts. Consider getting an IRS identity protection (IP) PIN. You’ll provide the PIN to verify your identity when you submit your tax return, which can prevent scammers from filing a return using your Social Security number.

Check your credit reports

You can access free Equifax, Experian and TransUnion credit reports each week at AnnualCreditReport.com. Review each report for errors and signs of fraud, such as a recently opened credit account that you don’t recognize.

Consider freezing your report at each credit-reporting company. A freeze helps to prevent scammers from opening credit accounts in your name.

Who's in your corner

Even with the upheaval at many government agencies, you can still reach out to some of them for help.

Recently, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau was still accepting complaints about problems with lenders, banks and other financial organizations, although changes in the CFPB’s staffing and structure may limit the bureau’s ability to address complaints.

You can also notify the Federal Trade Commission about unfair, shady and anticompetitive business practices, and you can go to the Securities and Exchange Commission for help with investment-related gripes and disputes.

These non-federal organizations can also lend a hand:

• The Better Business Bureau provides reviews, ratings and accreditation of businesses and charities. It also helps to resolve consumer complaints.
• Your state attorney general upholds consumer protection laws, and your state consumer protection office can help with complaints against businesses as well as investigate scams.
• A coalition of more than 250 nonprofit consumer organizations, the Consumer Federation of America looks out for consumer interests through research, education and advocacy.
• The nonprofit group Consumer Action uses education and advocacy to protect consumers in areas including credit, banking, privacy, insurance, health care and utilities. It provides a hotline consumers can call for help at 415-777-9635.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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Under the Capital One Discover merger, the Capital One Financial Corporation would acquire Discover Financial Services. On April 18, Capital One reported that the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency approved the merger, allowing the acquisition to proceed.

“This is an exciting moment for Capital One and Discover. We understand the critical importance of a strong and competitive banking system to our customers and our economy, and we appreciate the thoughtful and diligent engagement of our regulators as they thoroughly reviewed this deal over the past 14 months,” said Richard Fairbank, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Capital One.

“The combination of our two great companies will increase competition in payment networks, offer a wider range of products to our customers, increase our resources devoted to innovation and security and bring meaningful community benefits,” said Michael Shepherd, Interim CEO and President of Discover.

According to the press release, the merger is expected to close on May 18, and Capital One and Discover customer accounts will see no immediate changes.

For the time being, Capital One and Discover customers’ service will continue through their current platforms.

How the Capital One Discover merger could impact your interest rates

The Capital One Discover merger means that Capital One will become an even larger player in the credit card market than it already is.

Any time one company starts to dominate a market, it can lead to reduced competition, allowing that company to raise prices or implement policy changes with less concern of attracting or maintaining customers.

A coalition of 30 community, consumer, civil rights and public interest groups questioned the merger, and in a post on X, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) predicted that the merger will "increase fees and credit costs for American families."

The merger may impact Capital One and Discover customers’ credit card interest rates and fees, but no one can say for certain just what those impacts may be. It’s possible that if interest rates and fees increase, Capital One and Discover cardholders might use their cards less or cancel their cards in response.

It’s also possible that borrowers with good or excellent credit scores might seek out other credit card companies, leaving Capital One with a pool of higher-risk borrowers with lower credit scores.

To avoid this scenario, Capital One might only implement small rate or fee increases, or the company might choose not to increase rates at all.

How the Capital One Discover merger could affect your debit card rewards

Capital One has announced that it plans to transition its debit cards to the Discover debit card network after the merger. That’s significant because Discover is one of few lenders which offers a cash back debit card.

Typically, debit cards don’t come with rewards, but with Discover’s Cashback Debit card, you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month. The checking account is fee-free, and rewards never expire.

Since Discover is already offering rewards to debit cardholders, it’s possible that Capital One debit cardholders might also become eligible for new and additional rewards once the merger takes place.

How to prepare for the Capital One Discover merger

Before the merger takes place, it’s a good idea for Capital One and Discover cardholders to look up their credit card policy.

Print out a copy of your policy and review key details, like your card’s interest rate, fees and rewards.

Pay attention to any communication you receive from Capital One or Discover in the coming months and make sure that your contact information is up-to-date.

Chances are that cardholders will receive updates as the merger approaches and takes place, and these updates should include details about any important changes, including in interest rates, fees and rewards.

If you find that you don’t like the changes that are announced, remember that you can always shop around for a new credit card with a different company.

Focus on improving your credit score by making all of your payments on time and minimizing your credit usage. With a higher credit score, you’re more likely to qualify for a wider variety of cards, so you’ll have more options if you decide to choose a new credit card.

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We begin with a question: When was the last time that you turned on the evening news and did not see a story about the problem of dangerous narcotics? Now, for a moment, imagine, instead of a warning not to use drugs, you see a commercial encouraging their use.

“Not happening,” you’re thinking. But that is exactly what we all are exposed to when we are urged to use powerful drugs that can ruin families if they’re not managed properly — credit cards.

Many of us have received a preapproved credit card in the mail with literature that says, “To activate, make a purchase of up to X dollars.”

Credit card issuers want us to take vacations we can’t afford and buy things we do not need and cannot pay for with cash.

And, ironically, the more credit card debt we have, the easier it is sometimes to get more credit cards.

Planning a trip and responded to a promotion

But what if you have no credit card debt? Perhaps you pay off monthly charges in full and have no other debt because long ago you said “no!” to taking on debt of any kind?

Dr. Tom has lived within his means and stays out of debt. Through no fault of his own, he created a problem for himself.

“Our family was planning a trip to England and Italy,” wrote retired West Coast dentist Dr. Tom in his email to me. “For over 30 years, I have had a credit card with a big bank and pay all charges in full every month. I applied for their airline-branded card that advertises 75,000 miles for signing up — that I could use for airfare — but was turned down!”

No credit history with the reporting bureaus

He related how he spoke with a customer service rep, who had his payment history on her computer screen but told him the credit bureaus had no record of him or his payments to the credit card company. “‘That’s why you were declined,’” he said she told him.

He escalated the issue to a supervisor and said, “Just look at my 30 years with you. I’ve never been late. You can see that. Besides, you could have reported my payment activity all these years to the credit bureaus, but obviously you didn’t. Come on, someone has to have an ounce of common sense. Please speak with the department that issues the airlines card, explain the mistake and send me the card.”

Dr. Tom took this as high as he could but was turned down each time. He concluded, “Nobody cares. Common sense is not a job requirement at this bank.”

A solution but not at all timely

But it was not over, not yet, because after receiving his email, I got him on the line and called the unit of the bank that handles customer complaints at the highest level and explained the problem. The customer service rep asked Dr. Tom, “Why don’t you have more credit?”

Translation: We can’t make money off of you with interest charges because you pay in full, so why should I help you?

However, he finally agreed to send Dr. Tom’s payment history to Experian. “They will send his credit rating back to us, which will allow us to issue the new credit card, but it will take a month or so.”

“A month or so?” I blurted. “Are you kidding? His European trip is in three weeks. You have the ability to pick up the phone, call your department that issues the airlines cards and tell them that Dr. Tom has a perfect payment history and to send him a new card. Come on, he is a 30-year customer. Do the right thing — fix the problem you guys created by not reporting his payment history to Experian.”

And then, exhibiting his utmost concern for the bank’s loyal customer, the customer service rep hung up.

When faced with arrogant, uncaring people who refuse to act reasonably and solve a problem their organization created, my next step is to contact their media department, because those are the people who can pull strings.

Please help my reader, your longtime customer

In early March, I emailed the media contact at the bank, summarized Dr. Tom’s situation, gave the names of the bank employees we had spoken with and concluded by saying: “Dr. Tom needs someone with common sense to speak with the issuing department and tell them, ‘Look at his history with us. He has been a good customer. Please give him that card in time to use it on the family’s trip to Europe.’”

A week later, Dr. Tom’s new credit card arrived in the mail.

The moral to this story: While most credit card companies report their customers’ payment histories to the credit bureaus, they are not legally required to do so.

How can you check to make sure your payment history is being fairly reported? You can get free copies of your credit reports from all three credit-reporting bureaus (Experian, TransUnion and Equifax) by going to AnnualCreditReport.com.

Dennis Beaver practices law in Bakersfield, Calif., and welcomes comments and questions from readers, which may be faxed to (661) 323-7993, or e-mailed to Lagombeaver1@gmail.com. And be sure to visit dennisbeaver.com.

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This article was written by and presents the views of our contributing adviser, not the Kiplinger editorial staff. You can check adviser records with the SEC or with FINRA.

And tucked in many credit card programs are other perks. Some reward you with complimentary hotel upgrades, free attractions, even resort credits.

Moreover, if you enjoy the finer things in life like visiting art museums, this one perk from Capital One deserves a closer look.

Get 50% off The Cultivist membership

One of the lesser known perks for Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card cardholders is a discounted Enthusiast membership to The Cultivist.

What's The Cultivist? It's a membership club that entitles members and one guest to free art museum access to some of the best spots in the world.

Experience the classic works of the Renaissance in London at the Royal Academy. Or take in Amy Sherald: American Sublime at SFMOMA.

Of course, to receive a discounted membership, you'll need a Capital One Venture X card.

How does redemption work?

If you have a Venture X card, you can buy The Enthusiast membership for 50% off the regular price. The Enthusiast membership normally costs $440 annually, but cardholders receive a one-year subscription for only $220.

For the second year, it auto renews at $220. In essence, you're getting a two-year membership for the price of one year.

With the membership, you can visit more than 60 museums around the world for free. This works better if you plan to travel to larger U.S. cities like Chicago or San Francisco, or if you plan to go to Europe.

You can use The Cultivist app to book tickets ahead of time so you don't have to wait in longer lines. And your membership grants you other perks, such as in-person private hours, online guest talks and destination itineraries.

Which museums are included?

Some of the top destinations include:

• Musée Picasso: Paris, France
• Doge's Palace: Venice Italy
• Museum of Modern Art (MOMA): New York City, New York
• Los Angeles County Museum of Art: Los Angeles, California
• The Royal Academy of Arts: London, England

The Cultivist has a full list of eligible museums. That way, when you plan your next getaway, you have one or several attractions you can take advantage of, while saving time and money.

The bottom line

Travel is the gift of exploration. And if you have the right travel reward credit cards, you can save on unique experiences you'll remember for the rest of your life.

Capital One Venture X cardholders can use their card to score a 50% discount on The Cultivist membership. This entitles you and a guest to free tickets to some of the world's best art museums for less.

Just remember that many travel reward cards come with annual fees. So, using programs like this is a great way to offset some of that expense.

As an independent publication dedicated to helping you make the most of your money, the article above is our view of the best deals and is not the opinion of any entity mentioned such as a card issuer, hotel, airline etc. Similarly, the content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of those entities. This article only reviews select credit cards. We may get compensation if you visit partner links on our site. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our website. However, our selection of products is made independently of our relationship to advertisers.

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Trump said the reasoning behind this was to correct trading imbalances and stabilize manufacturing jobs in the U.S. He also remarked these might not be the only tariffs to go into effect.

Some countries, such as Australia, Singapore and the United Kingdom, received a 10% baseline tariff on imported goods. Meanwhile, some of what Trump deems the "worst offender" countries received much higher tariffs.

China received a 34% tariff to go along with the 20% already imposed. Vietnam received a 46% tariff.

As you can imagine, this can have a sweeping impact on many of the goods you buy, such as clothes.

How Trump's tariffs impact clothing

The United States receives 97% of its apparel and shoes from imports, according to the American Apparel & Footwear Association.

As part of this, China is the second-largest exporter to the United States, sending $438.9 billion worth of goods in 2024. Keep in mind that many popular clothing brands, from Shein to Ralph Lauren, make their clothes there.

In addition, many clothing products sold at Target and Walmart are made in China, Bangladesh and Vietnam, all countries impacted by the tariffs.

Footwear prices could surge

For example, Vietnam is a producer of American brands such as Nike. Trump levied a 46% tariff on imports from Vietnam.

For Nike fans, this isn't ideal news. Half of their shoes are made in either Vietnam or China. Nike is already projecting double-digital sales declines.

Vietnam is also a leading producer of Ugg and Decker Brands, most notable for Hoka shoes. CNBC reports the company had 125 supply partners in China and 68 in Vietnam.

How do Trump's tariffs raise prices?

When governments impose tariffs, they're essentially taxing imported goods and forcing companies making these goods to pay more for them.

When companies incur these costs, they can absorb them or pass them on to the customers. In many cases, they might do a little of both.

To give you an example of how it works, Trump also recently imposed a 25% tax on all imported autos and parts. Goldman Sachs said Trump's tariffs on foreign cars could raise prices from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the model.

Therefore, it's a safe bet to prepare for your clothing and footwear to cost more, based on these indicators.

How to save when prices rise

Trump's tariffs come at an inopportune time. Consumer sentiment continues to dip, as the University of Michigan's Survey of Consumers reported a reading of 57.0, down 28.2% from this time last year. Inflation continues to be the main cause for concern.

With prices likely to rise on many of your favorite clothing brands, deals might be difficult to come by. That's why if you can hold off on buying until the dust settles, that would be the smartest bet.

However, if you need things in the meantime, I'm a firm proponent in using shopping resources to your advantage. Here are two ways to do this:

• Look for financing incentives: Most store credit cards come with high interest rates and minimal perks. One smart alternative is the Costco Anywhere Visa by Citi. Costco carries popular footwear from brands such as Ugg, Sketchers and more. Plus, with the credit card, you'll earn the following perks:

• Comparison shop: There are many apps that allow you to compare prices on the same products from multiple retailers in one place. One of my favorites is Flipp. It's free to download and includes circulars from major retailers.

The bottom line

Trump's extensive tariffs will send ripple effects through our supply chains. Since some of the countries that are hit the hardest are those making many of the clothes and shoes you buy, it's a safe bet prices will rise.

By using cashback cards and comparison shopping sites, you can find some ways to save, even with prices surging.

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However, if you have the right travel rewards card, you place flexibility back in your favor. Some travel cards offer perks, such as flexible check-in and check-out times, free Wi-Fi, room upgrades and more, so it makes your trip feel more comfortable and less hurried.

One of the better travel programs offered is by American Express. Through their Fine Hotels + Resorts Program, eligible cardholders can book across 49 new destinations around the world, bringing the total to more than 3,100 curated hotels in 114 countries. This marks the largest global footprint of any credit card issuer’s hotel program.

If you aren't aware of the perks, you're missing opportunities and not making use of what you get with the annual card fee.

Whether you already have one of the eligible cards and want to see what the program has, or you're considering getting one of the cards and want to see the value, it's helpful to see some examples to get the full picture.

We look at what the American Express Fine Hotels + Rewards Program has to offer, as well as what that looks like if you're traveling to Las Vegas, Sydney or Lisbon.

What the American Express FHR Program gives you

Through the FHR program, you receive some nifty perks:

• Early check-ins: When available, you'll be able to check into your hotel at noon, giving you time to drop your bags, explore your surroundings or take a well-deserved breather.
• Late check-outs: Eligible cardholders receive a guaranteed 4 pm checkout. This gives you more time to explore attractions or rest before going on a later flight.
• Breakfast for two: In a cozy mood when you wake up and don't want to leave the hotel? You don't have to, as you receive a complimentary breakfast.
• $100 credit: At select hotels, cardholders receive a $100 credit you can use for dining, spa and any other hotel services.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Stay connected on the go with complimentary Wi-Fi at select locations.

How does the FHR program work?

Start by visiting American Express's Hotel Finder. If you know where you'd like to go, enter the destination and see if they have eligible properties in the area.

What's unique about Amex's hotel finder is that it allows you to filter to find a hotel matching your desired travel experience. You can choose from ambience, such as family-friendly, historic, private stays and more.

Another option is experience. If you want a hotel with a casino, EV charging capabilities, golfing, even safari experiences, they have you covered.

Pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable trip.

Who is eligible for the Amex FHR Program?

To be eligible for the FHR program, you'll need one of the following cards to make the reservation:

• Platinum Card® from American Express
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Here are some examples of where you can stay and how these benefits can enhance your trips.

Fontainebleau Las Vegas with Amex

The Fontainebleau is Las Vegas' newest hotel. Sitting at the edge of the Strip, it gives you breathtaking views of the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas without the hustle.

The hotel, like many in Vegas, has everything you need under one roof. From sipping cocktails at the luxurious Bleau Bar, to sampling fares from one of the 30 onsite restaurants, to enjoying live music, Fontainebleau provides as much excitement or relaxation as you want.

Using the FHR program, you'll qualify for a $100 food and beverage credit, noon check-in, late check out and room upgrades without the typical "Vegas handshake." When you use a Platinum Card from American Express, you can save more.

Convent Square Lisbon Hotel with the Amex program

Situated in one of Europe's gems, the Convent Square Lisbon Hotel is the perfect nod to the historic while adding contemporary touches to give it its vibrant vibe.

The Memorable Tea Ritual is a notable event in which you can take part, and when you leave the beautiful premises, stroll on cobblestone streets and marvel at the breathtaking architecture at São Domingos Church and the Belém Tower.

If you're searching for something to do at night, the hotel doesn't disappoint, from DJ sessions to amazing meals at the Capítulo Restaurant. With the FHR program, you'll receive a $100 resort credit to spend on dining, spa and other resort activities.

Add in the early check-in, late check-out and room upgrades, and your Lisbon trip becomes even cozier.

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour for Amex cardholders

The Sofitel Sydney shows you magnificent views of one of Australia's most popular sites: Sydney Harbor.

What separates the Sofitel from many hotel brands I've stayed in is their attention to detail on the little things: From contemporary stylings with French accents to the Club Millésime, this hotel is a visual treat.

If you use the FHR program, you earn early check-in, free Wi-Fi, free breakfast for two, room upgrades (perhaps you'll strike it lucky and get a sought-after harbor view), a $100 resort credit and a late check-out. In turn, you'll receive perks that make your trip that much more luxurious, without any extra cost.

The bottom line on Amex's FHR program

The FHR program from American Express allows you to enjoy perks without jumping through hoops or doing the $20 handshake. You'll receive early check-ins, late check-outs, resort credits, free breakfast and optional room upgrades, all included.

It makes a special trip even more memorable. When you use the America Express Platinum card, you earn five times the membership points, giving you more leverage to book your next trip.

We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. We calculate a typical annual reward for each card, assuming $36,000 spent annually and less any annual fee. Interest rates, fees, rewards and other terms listed in this article are subject to change. Before you apply for a credit card, check its current terms and conditions with the issuer.

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With a United Club membership, you can get into lounges at airports when you travel. It used to cost $650 for an annual lounge membership, which would include access for guests. Now, though, the price is getting much steeper.

To get an individual United Club membership, you'll have to pony up $750 or 94,000 United miles per year. If you want to take two guests, that'll cost you $1,400 or 175,000 miles.

How does United Club membership work?

Going forward, United Club will have a tiered membership scheme.

Individual membership ($740 or 94,000 miles) gets the passholder unlimited entry to United Club locations. Note, however, that that doesn't mean access to Star Alliance and partner lounges.

All Access membership ($1,400 or 175,000 miles) gets two people access to United Club locations as well as Star Alliance and other partner lounges.

There are over 45 United Club locations, mostly within the U.S., and there is one in London Heathrow, Mexico City and Tokyo. The clubs have free food and internet access.

What are other ways to get airport lounge access?

Of course, United Clubs aren't the only lounges out there and there are plenty of ways to get into airport lounges these days.

For United Clubs themselves, you can get membership and access through the airlines' branded credit cards. You can also get into United lounges on a one-time basis with certain ticket classes.

Outside of United, you can buy day passes to certain airport lounges or invest in Priority Pass, which gets access to airport lounges with an annual membership fee starting at $99.

Airlines making changes

United's Club changes comes amid many other changes to what customers get at various airlines. Just last month, Delta's new Sky Club rules went into effect, which largely revoke or restrict ways to access their lounges.

And there have been further changes at United. I wrote earlier this year about giving up on airline status in part because United raised the thresholds you need to meet to qualify for its Premier tiers.

In the post-pandemic travel boom, airlines have been reigning in freebies and perks — even Southwest ditched its free checked bag policy. As CNBC reported, the latest moves from United seem aimed at getting flyers to sign up for the lucrative branded credit cards rather than just get club membership alone. While the Department of Transportation under President Joe Biden put frequent flyer programs under scrutiny in the hopes of protecting fairness for customers, what will happen now under the current administration is up in the air.

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If you're looking to save on your everyday expenses, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is an excellent option to consider. The card comes with a $200 introductory bonus. All you have to do is charge $2,000 on your card within the first six months of the account opening to earn the offer.

On top of that, it's a great option if you want a credit card with no annual fees and features a ton of perks. Here's a glance at some of the many cost-saving benefits this card offers you.

The perfect dinner and a movie credit card

One of the better perks is for streamers. Get up to a $7 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at Disneyplus.com, Hulu.com, or Plus.espn.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.

It brings the cost of a standalone service like Hulu with ads down from $9.99 to $2.99 plus taxes, making it an incredible deal.

On top of that, the card supports your cooking habits. Cardholders can receive a $15 monthly statement credit when you charge your Home Chef membership with your card. This gives you a $180 annual discount.

Home Chef is a meal delivery service. How it works is each week you'll choose from over 35 meals and 18 extras. The pre-portioned ingredients arrive with specific cooking instructions. It allows you to make fresh, healthier meals quickly.

Save on everyday items

The Blue Cash Everyday® Card helps you save on the things you do the most. Cardholders earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases, 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations, and on eligible purchases for each category on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%). Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.

To put it into perspective, you can save up to $180 in each of these categories at the 3% rate annually. That's a savings of up to $540 per year with no annual fees.

It's important to note there are some exclusions that apply. American Express doesn't consider super stores, meal delivery kit services or warehouse clubs as grocery stores, so purchases at any would only qualify for the 1% back.

Meanwhile, the retail cash back doesn't apply in every case. If you made an online purchase from a restaurant, grocery store, travel website or automotive dealer, it won't qualify for the 3% back. You can see other exclusions in the terms section.

Redemption options

Each point you earn equals one cent with no minimum redemption limits. You can take your points and use them as statement credit.

Or, you can use your cash back at Amazon.com for purchases. And if you're a Prime member, you can save even more with free shipping on millions of items.

The bottom line

The Blue Cash Everyday® Card is a fantastic card for everyday purchases. Streamers can earn a sizable discount on the Disney Bundle, while you can also earn 3% back at grocery stores, gas stations and U.S. online retailers.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The $6,000 cap on the 3% category will limit grocery shoppers with higher budgets. If this is the case, consider the American Express^® Gold Card, where you'll earn 4 points per dollar spent at supermarkets up to $25,000 annually.

Also, not every online purchase will qualify for the 3% back. Those obstacles aside, this is an excellent card that includes a lot of perks with no annual fee.

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Last year, Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express cardholders lost their free visits altogether. As of this month, other American Express cardholders saw their previously unlimited access capped to a limited number of free visits each year. Meanwhile, Delta also revoked or restricted other ways of snagging a free Sky Club visit when you fly.

Despite the crackdown, travelers still have ways to access their favorite airport lounges this year. It’s just harder to visit them for free. Here’s everything you need to know about the new Delta Sky Club rules and how to get access to the airport lounges under the new restrictions.

What the Delta crackdown on complimentary lounge access means for travelers

Airport lounges are more popular than ever, and Delta’s Sky Clubs are among the best U.S. airport lounges around. Unfortunately, that’s exactly why the airline has started to chip away at complimentary access.

Delta’s premium airport lounges receive approximately 30.3 million visits per year across the airline’s 55 lounge locations. Of those, an estimated 40% are from travelers with a co-branded credit card that grants free lounge access.

So, what’s changed in Delta’s Sky Club policies? For those with the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card and the Platinum American Express Card, your previously unlimited access to Sky Clubs when flying Delta or one of its partners is now capped at just 15 visits and 10 visits per year, respectively.

Last year, the airline also eliminated lounge access for anyone with a basic economy ticket, regardless of credit card benefits, loyalty status or Sky Club membership. Those hoping to gain access by reaching Diamond or Platinum Medallion status will also find it harder to do so.

Sky Club membership is no longer one of the perks you can select for your Choice Benefit at the Platinum tier. Meanwhile, Diamond Medallion members will have to use two Choice Benefits to claim an individual membership or three to claim an executive membership.

How to visit Delta Sky Club under the new rules

Depending on which card you have, Delta’s new lounge access limits might still be generous enough to travel as usual. If you have the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express or Platinum American Express, the 10 or 15 free visits per year might be plenty for how often you travel through an airport with one of Delta’s lounges.

Other credit cards that still include some level of Sky Club access include Delta SkyMiles Trust Club Platinum and Gold Visa Cards as well as hard-to-get cards like the Delta SkyMiles Diners Club Card or the American Express Centurion Card.

Your credit card isn’t your only ticket into the Sky Club, though. If you no longer have access or you exceed your limit in a year, you can simply buy a single visit pass for $50. You can also pay for a Delta Sky Club membership. Prices start at $695 or 69,500 SkyMiles for one year of unlimited lounge access.

But be careful. Even with that membership, you can no longer visit the lounge if you’re flying on a basic economy ticket. You’ll also enjoy complimentary same-day lounge access when you buy a Delta One ticket or select business-class and first-class tickets.

Capital One cardholders also saw their lounge perks get slashed this year

Delta isn’t the only one tightening its rules on who can access its airport lounges. In January, travelers using the Capital One Venture Rewards or Capital One Spark Miles for Business cards lost the two free visits per year that used to come with owning either card.

While two free visits per year may not seem like a lot, these two cards were among the cheapest available that included lounge access. Both carry an annual fee of just $95 per year, while most travel rewards credit cards offering any kind of free lounge access come with annual fees as high as $695.

The bottom line

While you still have options for buying access to Delta Sky Club lounges, complimentary access is now rare for all travelers. If you live near or frequently visit a Delta hub city, it may be worth upgrading to a card with some free visits included or paying for an annual membership.

Otherwise, you might want to check out other travel rewards credit cards with lounge access, like the new JetBlue Premier Card launched this year. Other brands might not include Delta Sky Club access specifically, but you could find a more affordable way to access other airport lounges and discover a new favorite lounge network.

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There are a variety of factors impacting our grocery prices. The bird flu has driven up egg costs significantly, prompting some restaurants, like Waffle House, to add a 50-cent surcharge per egg ordered. On top of that, inflation continues to take a bite out of budgets. The average American household now spends $270 weekly on groceries, or more than $1,000 per month. And if President Trump goes through with a raft of tariffs, produce costs could rise even more.

While we might not be able to do much about the prices aside from comparison shopping, there are ways you can still save on food at the store.

Use your card's cash back incentives

Some credit cards (listed below) offer cash back incentives on grocery or dining out purchases. By maximizing these to your advantage, you can earn a healthy cash back bonus that offsets some of the higher costs incurred.

The key is to make sure these rewards work for you. Start by shopping for a credit card that helps you save on everyday purchases, like groceries, dining out or food delivery services, like Uber Eats. And make sure to pay off your balance every month, or else the interest you pay negates some of the incentives these cards offer.

With this in mind, here are a few cards that can help you save on food costs:

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express helps you 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in eligible purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) purchases and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.

The card features a $200 statement credit you can earn by charging at least $2,000 in the first six months. A tip: Usually, I'll just alter my spending and charge everything to a new card, from utilities to regular shopping trips, to make sure I'm hitting that intro bonus. It's essentially free money for everyday purchases you were going to make, as long as you pay off the statement balances.

There is a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annually. Even still, with the savings you'll gain on groceries, it can outweigh the annual fee and still help you save.

See rates and fees.

American Express® Gold Card

If you plan to spend a lot at the grocery store, the American Express^® Gold Card is a great fit. You'll earn four points for every dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets, with a $25,000 cap annually. If you exceed that amount, your rewards after $25,000 are one point per dollar charged.

You'll also earn four points per dollar on restaurants worldwide, with an annual cap of $50,000. Once you reach the $50,000 threshold, the rewards revert to one point per dollar charged. The Points Guy notes the grocery and dining out benefits equal up to 8% cash back, based on their valuations.

And you can earn up to 100,000 Membership rewards points after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

The only drawback is there's an annual fee of $325. However, the higher caps on dining out and groceries makes this card a must-have for foodies.

See rates and fees.

The bottom line

Food prices continue to rise due to the bird flu, inflation and possible tariffs coming down the road. While you can't do much to control food costs on their own, having the right credit card can cushion some of those higher expenses.

These credit cards come with generous cash back incentives at supermarkets to help you save more on everyday goods. And you can save even more by meeting those intro bonuses.

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As an independent publication dedicated to helping you make the most of your money, the article above is our view of the best deals and is not the opinion of any entity mentioned such as a card issuer, hotel, airline etc. Similarly, the content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of those entities.

As part of the launch, JetBlue is also offering a generous bonus offer of 70,000 TrueBlue points and five tiles to help you reach Mosaic elite status faster this year. To qualify for the intro offer, you need to spend $5,000 on your new card and pay the annual fee within the first 90 days.

With TrueBlue points valued at an estimated 1.3 cents each, that sign-up bonus is worth over $900. Since TrueBlue loyalty program members earn one tile for every $100 on JetBlue flights or vacation packages, that five tile bonus will put you $500 closer to Mosaic elite status.

While the perks and bonus offer on the new JetBlue Premier Card look great, it’s worth noting that the airline’s newest card also comes with a $499 annual fee. That’s $400 more than its JetBlue Plus and JetBlue Business cards. With that dramatically higher fee, travelers need to do the math to figure out if the perks are really worth it.

The new JetBlue Premier Card offers exciting new perks for travelers

The latest addition to JetBlue’s credit card lineup comes with a slate of brand-new perks not offered on any of the airline’s lower-tier cards. One of the most noteworthy new perks is airport lounge access. Premier cardholders can get Priority Pass Select, a program that grants access to over 1,500 airport lounges around the globe. You’ll also get access to JetBlue’s new airport lounges in New York and Boston when they open in late 2025 and early 2026.

Lounge access aside, the new JetBlue Premier Card also comes with a $120 statement credit on Global Entry or TSA PreCheck so cardholders can get to their favorite airport lounges faster. Travelers can also earn up to $300 in statement credits on Paisly purchases each year. The travel booking platform allows you to book cars, hotels, vacation packages and more. Cardholders earn $50 in credits for each purchase of $250 or more on the travel booking site. So you would need to make six separate qualifying purchases to maximize that benefit.

Earn TrueBlue Points faster with the JetBlue Premier Card

For travelers who care more about racking up points toward free flights than lounge access, the elite credit card offers more ways to earn and redeem TrueBlue points. In addition to the 6x points JetBlue Plus and Business card holders earn on JetBlue purchases, Premier cardholders will also earn 6x points on Paisly purchases. That means you can enjoy that 6x point bonus on your hotel booking, car rental and other trip-related purchases rather than just your flight.

With the new card, travelers also have the option to redeem TrueBlue points for statement credits, effectively turning them into a cashback rewards program. While that perk is available on the JetBlue Plus card, there’s a $1,000 credit cap per year. The Premier Card has no limit.

JetBlue’s $499 Premier card – a good deal or too expensive?

While the new perks are nice, the JetBlue Premier Card also carries a $499 annual fee. That seems exorbitant when you consider that the credit card one tier down only costs $99 per year. The JetBlue Plus Card has many overlapping benefits with the Premier Card, including a 5,000-point bonus every year, a free checked bag and the ability to earn 6x points on JetBlue purchases.

The key benefits exclusive to the Premier card include the $120 Global Entry credit, up to $300 Paisly credit, the Priority Pass Select membership and the ability to earn 6x points on Paisly purchases.

For travelers who would make use of those perks, the value would be more than enough to offset the $499 annual fee. However, for less frequent fliers or travelers who aren’t interested in lounge access, sticking with one of the lower-tier cards may make more sense.

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He suggested we must have a lot of airlines points now, and I told him I qualified for Premier Silver at United.

"What does that get you?" he asked. "Free flights?"

"Nope," I told him, "mostly it gets me three extra inches of legroom."

I'm not a business traveler, but I typically take a handful of flights each year paid out of my own pocket. I often fly United because, more often than not, they have the flight routes I need. It took the biggest — and most expensive — year of travel of my life to reach the lowest tier of United's Premier status, and while I'm enjoying the free checked bag, I won't be chasing status in 2025. Here's my thinking.

United's Premier status is harder to get now

Now, don't get me wrong, I understand the value of status with an airline: I was raised by a father who mocked George Clooney's mileage aspirations in Up in the Air as low. But the reality is that while I travel what I consider a healthy amount, I'm not a consultant flying out to a client every week or booking a first-class ticket through my employer once a month. And for us lowly leisure travelers who merely fly abroad once or twice a year, I just don't know how realistic airline status is.

So, first and foremost, I won't be pursuing airline status, or really thinking about it much at all, because I know I won't be able to attain it.

Last fall, United announced changes to how you can qualify for its Premier tiers, largely make it harder to meet the thresholds. United uses a system of Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs) and Premier Qualifying Flights (PQFs) to track status (more on those definitions later). In 2024, to reach Silver, you needed 4,000 PQPs and 12 PQFs, or just 5,000 PQPs. In 2025, you need 5,000 PQPs and 15 PQFs, or just 6,000 PQPs.

Similar moves have happened on other airlines post-pandemic. Delta controversially increased its SkyMiles program in 2023; after overhauling its program in 2023, JetBlue is still tinkering with Mosaic.

So if I barely eked in last year, I just don't think I'll be passing the higher thresholds this year. This all brings me to my next point...

Airline status is too complicated to keep up with

PQP, PQF, Mosaic, Medallion, Companion Pass, give me a break. There's a lot of complication to airline status, miles and points.

For United's program, you need "Premier qualifying flights," literally legs of a flight. So to qualify for Silver this year, you need to take 15 (qualifying) flights. PQPs refer to "points," which is different from miles, and generally corresponds to how much actual money you spent on a flight — if you pay for an upgraded seat or fare, for example, you'll get more points. Last year, I spent a good amount of time tracking down my flights to make sure those on allied airlines got counted towards my United status.

Then add on top of that travel rewards credit card points. You can get a United credit card, changing up the equation as you can earn PQPs in different ways, and I can't tell you how many times I've tried to follow a TikTok travel rewards influencer (yes, they exist) explain how to transfer points from my Amex gold card to another Star Alliance airline to book a United flight.

Really, I get it, you can save money by going down these rabbit holes and taking one extra flight to reach the PQF you need and making sure you get a J-class ticket not an S-class ticket and etc., etc., etc. But life is so short, and I want to have time to read books and talk to my family and not spend hours researching before I book a flight and use up brain space memorizing airline status rules.

So my philosophy this year is that if it happens, it happens. I'll book the flights I want, and if they qualify as a PQF and get me to Silver again, great — but I'm not going to spend more time than that trying to track it all down.

Is airline loyalty worth it?

Having loyalty to an airline can give you perks, but it also means you're limited in your flight choices. The Wall Street Journal recently reported on people giving up on chasing airline loyalty programs. One flier told the reporter he "finds it increasingly hard to justify the often higher cost of flying with a preferred carrier in the name of maintaining status."

That's something I can relate to. Living in New York City, I'm surrounded by airline options, so when I look for flights, I can see many different carrier options. If I were to always book the same airline for the sake of status, I might end up losing money in the long-run.

Let's say I book a United flight that's $250 more expensive than an American Airlines flight so I can maintain Silver and, with it, my free checked bag and extra-legroom seat. But maybe I don't need to check a bag for a weekend trip and the seat upgrade on American would be $50. Did I really save by sticking with the brand?

So this year, when I saw the extra-legroom fare for a Delta flight was less expensive than its United economy counterpart, I went ahead and booked it without worrying about my United status.

The bottom line for me on chasing airline status

If you naturally travel a ton, attaining airline status is easier, and using it is a blessing. Seat upgrades, checked bags, lounge access, early boarding and so on are all very nice and make traveling that much easier, more comfortable and potentially less costly.

I've written before about Clear vs TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry and how I let my Clear membership lapse because the lines at airports were getting too long. It was a similar calculation: Yes, I understand getting to the front of a TSA line is valuable, but if my experience was that it didn't always get me there faster and it came with a price-tag despite discounts from airline memberships and credit cards, I accepted that it's not worth it to me.

I definitely think having loyalty accounts with airlines is a good idea as you can rack up miles that can be redeemed and sometimes get better fares. Likewise, loyalty accounts are good to keep around for car rental companies like Enterprise, hotel companies like IHG, and even Amtrak.

Similarly, I'll use my credit card rewards points (and, indeed, I learned how to transfer them to airlines, it's really not that hard) and, if it makes sense, maybe someday I'll open a credit card with an airline rather than working with a broad Amex Gold or Chase Sapphire.

But if it's going to be a hassle to reach loyalty status levels, do you really travel enough for it to be worth it? Personally, I'm not going to sweat it.

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Trump's effect on income taxes

Trump has pledged to extend the individual income and estate tax provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), and with the House of Representatives and Senate in Republican control, that effort is expected to succeed. Those provisions, which are set to expire at the end of 2025, doubled the standard deduction, lowered income tax rates and increased the estate tax exemption to a level that makes federal estate taxes a nonissue for the vast majority of taxpayers. In 2025, estates of up to $13.99 million will be excluded from federal estate taxes, or up to $27.98 million for a married couple.

The TCJA also doubled the child tax credit from $1,000 to $2,000 per child, and Trump has said he wants to make the increase permanent. The credit phases out for single parents with $200,000 or more in income and married couples who file jointly and have $400,000 or more in income. Vice President-elect J.D. Vance has said he would like to increase the child tax credit to as much as $5,000 per child and extend it to all families regardless of income. However, such a tax break would be enormously expensive and face opposition from Republican lawmakers.

During the presidential campaign, Trump said he supported eliminating the $10,000 cap on the deduction for state and local taxes (SALT), a move supported by lawmakers from high-tax states. However, scrapping the SALT cap would increase the cost of extending the TCJA tax cuts, which would already add $3.9 trillion to the federal deficit through 2035, or $4.5 trillion with interest, according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, a nonpartisan nonprofit organization.

Trump's second term may impact EV tax credits

Under the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, eligible buyers can claim a tax credit of up to $7,500 for a new electric vehicle, or $4,000 for a used one, at the point of sale, either as a rebate or as a reduction in the cost of the vehicle. Members of Trump’s transition team reportedly want to scrap the EV tax credit as part of broader tax reform legislation. Elon Musk, founder of EV manufacturer Tesla (TSLA) and a close adviser to Trump, opposes the tax credit, which he says primarily benefits Tesla competitors.

The EV tax credit probably won’t disappear overnight. Congress would need to amend the Inflation Reduction Act or enact a new law to eliminate it. And any effort to get rid of the tax credit faces opposition from U.S. automakers. Still, given the uncertainty surrounding the credit, it’s probably wise to buy soon if you’ve had your eye on an eligible EV. You can research makes and models that are eligible for the credit at www.fueleconomy.gov.

Trump's take on health insurance

During his first term, President Trump tried unsuccessfully to torpedo the Affordable Care Act, aka Obamacare. During the 2024 campaign, Trump said he would preserve the ACA but make changes to the law that could affect the cost of ACA insurance.

One of the most likely scenarios doesn’t require any action by the White House or Congress. ACA subsidies enacted in 2021 in response to the COVID pandemic and extended by the Inflation Reduction Act are scheduled to expire at the end of 2025. If Congress doesn’t extend the subsidies, premiums for individuals who currently receive the subsidies will rise significantly, more than doubling in some states, according to an analysis by health policy research organization KFF (formerly the Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF provides a calculator you can use to estimate eligibility for subsidies in 2025.

Trump's effect on student loans

Trump has made no secret of his opposition to student loan forgiveness, and lawsuits filed by Republican governors blocked some of the Biden administration’s debt-relief initiatives.

While the Trump administration’s position raises questions about the future of loan-relief programs, it won’t affect loans that have already been forgiven, says Mark Kantrowitz, a financial aid expert and author of How to Appeal for More College Financial Aid. Once the federal government discharges a borrower’s debt and the borrower has received notification, “the forgiveness is permanent and final,” Kantrowitz said in an analysis on The College Investor, a website that helps families manage college savings and debt.

For updated information on student loan forgiveness and repayment programs, go to the federal student aid website studentaid.gov.

Trump's effect on credit card late fees

The Trump administration is likely to roll back many of the regulations proposed by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, including one that would cap credit card late fees at $8. That proposal has been on hold following a court challenge by the banking industry, and the hold will likely become permanent under the new administration.

However, during the presidential campaign, Trump said he supported capping credit card interest rates at 10%. Such a cap would almost certainly be challenged by the banking industry and is unlikely to pass muster in Congress.

Given that major changes to current credit card late fees and interest rates are unlikely, your best bet is to try to pay off your balance every month and make payments on time. Experian provides a calculator you can use to estimate how long it will take to pay off your credit card balance.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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Ultimately, there was an incentive involved that compelled us to action. But are we using those rewards to their full potential? According to a Cardrates.com survey, 83% of people signed up for a credit card because of their rewards. Yet, only 33% of people surveyed used the travel perks offered on their card, despite it being the reason they signed up for the card.

It shows there’s a gap between why we signed up for the card and getting the most rewards from them. The main cause relates back to communication, where 62% of cardholders surveyed said they would use their rewards more, if notified about them. With that in mind, here are some strategies to be more proactive in keeping that information front of mind.

Tips for tracking credit card rewards

• Stay connected: Download the card issuer’s app and review statements, as they contain rewards earned. I also visit my lenders’ websites regularly to see if there are any new promotions or features I might be missing.
• Use a tracking app: Apps like The Points Guy or AwardWallet keep track of card rewards from many lenders.
• Factor rewards into your budget: When I budget, I also pay close attention to my credit cards – not only the balances owed, but my rewards, expiration dates for redemption (if applicable) and redemption limits in my spreadsheet.
• Prioritize cards based on rewards: Most of us carry more than one card, so it’s important to prioritize them based on maximizing rewards. To demonstrate, if you have a card offering 5% cash back on groceries, choose that card when checking out at the grocery store and get 5% cashback.

Credit card reward considerations

• Know the fine print: You may have to squint or get a magnifying glass, but pay attention to any asterisks or plus signs in those footnotes of your credit card disclosure statement, as they might contain restrictions.
• Set reminders: For credit cards with quarterly rotating categories, I set a reminder on my phone to check them when they change. From there, I might switch up which card I use based on the rewards offered.
• Hit the intro bonus: When I get a new card, I’ll place regular expenses like utilities or groceries on it until I hit the spending limit to earn the intro bonus.
• Prioritize redemption bonuses: With some cards, we might earn more value by taking the travel perks over cash back redemptions, so pay close attention to the card terms and prioritize rewards based on value and preferences.
• Determine value: In all instances, cash back rewards only make sense when we pay balances off each month. Also pay close attention to the annual fees the card charges and evaluate whether the rewards earned more than the fees.

The bottom line

Credit card rewards are often the reason why we sign up for a card. That said, studies show there’s a communication gap between the card issuers and their customers on remembering perks. By taking these proactive steps into account, it can help us stay informed about our credit card rewards and ensure we’re maximizing them to their fullest potential.

We may get compensation if you visit partner links on our site. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our website. However, our selection of products is made independently of our relationship to advertisers. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired.

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That’s the question my friend asked herself after receiving a distressed call from her son, an accomplished entrepreneur. What happened next highlights the danger of relying too heavily on credit.

A cautionary tale

My friend’s son has started several successful businesses and worked in various fields, but as an entrepreneur, his income can be cyclical, sporadic and, at times, volatile. He’d called in a rare panic, blurting out information he usually wouldn’t share so freely and confessing that $15,000 had been stolen from one of his accounts.

My friend is nothing else if not a very protective mother bear; she doesn’t necessarily become involved in her son’s escapades, but because he seldom shared this type of information with her, she became concerned. She wanted to know what was going on, and eventually, he shared the story in painstaking detail.

As it turned out, even though he had maxed out all his credit cards while in between business ventures, he’d put together a plan to go to Europe and said he kept an account with $15,000 that was now gone.

When my friend asked how this money had been stolen, he told her it had been taken directly from his account without any warning or explanation.

She asked if the bank was applying it to his credit card debt.

He said that wasn’t possible because the credit card debt had been through a different bank.

She wondered if there was a paper trail proving the bank took the money without his authorization. If so, he could request it be returned to his account.

She kept asking questions until he specified which account and bank the money had disappeared from. The answer took her by surprise because she didn’t even know he had accounts with that bank.

She dug deeper and soon discovered that no, in fact, he did not have a checking or savings account with that bank.

But he did have a credit card. And that card had $15,000 of available credit — the money he’d been “saving” for his trip.

What had happened was not that the bank had stolen his money. When all his other cards were maxed out, his credit score had gone down, so the bank lowered his credit limit. That wasn’t his money, and it hadn’t been stolen; it had never been his to begin with.

No, he insisted. That was his money. He was saving that credit as his only source of income.

But what is income?

Credit doesn't provide an opportunity to save

Income is generally defined by its function: providing consumption and saving opportunities.

I’ve always maintained that credit cards are not an alternative source of income.

While having credit available on a credit card does offer a way to provide ourselves with consumption, it does not offer us a saving opportunity. Much the opposite, in fact, most of the time.

Under certain conditions, credit can offer us a way to leverage our money. If we use our credit cards to make purchases, we will have a clean and easy paper trail of what we’ve purchased and when. Credit cards also offer many perks as incentives compared to other payment methods.

How to use credit cards to your advantage

That said, there are only two ways to use credit cards to your advantage:

• If you pay your card off in full before the end of the billing cycle each month, you will receive your rewards and incentives. It can be easier to pay one monthly bill than to account for each expense.
• Often, credit cards provide promotional offers of no interest or fees on purchases within a specific time if you pay the monthly minimum payments.

Both options are available, but you must understand the specific terms and conditions precisely. Once you exceed these parameters, the interest, fees and penalties are costly because interest is calculated continuously and compounded. Paying the total amount doesn’t eliminate the average daily balance calculations, so it can take several months, with no additional charges, to clear your account.

Credit is not income

Thinking that having credit available means you have another source of income, as my friend’s son had done, is misguided. Income is earned a) in exchange for labor or services, b) from selling goods or property or c) as profit from investing.

Credit is not income.

Just because you have the credit available doesn’t mean you have the income to pay the debt, and the bank lowering your limit doesn’t mean they are stealing from you.

Credit cards are not an alternative source of income.

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The information provided here is not investment, tax or financial advice. You should consult with a licensed professional for advice concerning your specific situation.

What's in your wallet? It could hold one of the worst credit cards if you haven't been paying attention. The terms of rewards credit cards change over time; that card that seemed great a few years ago could now be a dog. While nabbing a card with a big bonus for new customers is tempting, you must also be sure it's the right card for the long haul. And with interest rates soaring and annual fees trending up over the past few years, you should take a close look at your cards. Here, we have rounded up a list of the Worst Credit Cards of the year thanks to a WalletHub study.

As a first step, cull any of these cards from your wallet, and then shop for a card with better terms or a compelling bonus offer. But if you have more than one lousy card, don't close your cards all at once. Canceling a card will lower your credit score — albeit temporarily. You can protect your score by closing bad cards and opening a new card over time. The goal is to hold on to the best cards and, even if you don't use them daily, keep your credit cards active to protect your credit score.

We're pairing the worst credit cards with our picks for the best cards in four categories: overall rewards, long-term financing, balance transfer and small business. If you haven't applied for a new card in a while, you should review how to pick a rewards credit card.

Four worst credit cards of 2024

The worst credit cards typically charge high interest rates and fees, but offer few (if any) rewards or other perks in return. So, if you’re one of the 57% of Americans who say their finances are a horror show, check out these credit cards that the experts at WalletHub consider among the worst. If you’re holding one in your pocket right now, we also offer alternatives.

1. Mastercard® Gold Card: worst for rewards

The Mastercard® Gold Card comes with an astounding $995 annual fee. For that, you get a 24K gold plated card, a $200 airfare credit each year, access to a concierge, the promise of luxury gifts and one point for each $1 spent on most purchases. Many other credit cards (like the alternative below) offer better rewards bonuses and higher ongoing rewards earning rates for hundreds of dollars less per year.

Card details. Transfer intro APR: 0% for 15 months Transfer Fee: 5% (min $5) Regular APR: 20.74% - 28.74% (V) Annual Fee: $995 Rewards Rate: 1 point for each $1 spent.

Best alternative credit card: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® card has an annual fee of only a tenth of the Mastercard® Gold Card but with a great sign-up bonus and rewards.

2. Amalgamated Bank Maximum Rewards: worst for financing

Although the Amalgamated Bank Maximum Rewards® World Mastercard® offers 0% introductory rates, the terms are poor if you hope to finance a big purchase over time. You only get 0% for six months, which is relatively short for most credit cards. And for a cash back card, Amalgamated's 1.5 points for every dollar spent can't compete with the best flat-rate cash back credit cards. These cards offer between 2% and even 3% back (for a limited time) with no annual fee.

Card details. Purchase intro APR: 0% for 6 months Transfer intro APR: 0% for 6 months Transfer Fee: 5% (min $10) Regular APR: 24.99% - 29.99% (V) Annual Fee: $0

Many customers are drawn to Amalgamated Bank because of its progressive banking policies. The bank is a recognized B Corp-certified business, meaning it adheres to transparency and sustainability beyond legal requirements for banks. For example, almost a third of its loan portfolio is dedicated to climate solutions. It's too bad that its maximum rewards credit card doesn't have better terms.

Best alternative credit card for long-term financing. The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card offers 21 months of 0% interest.

3. Community Bank Maximum Rewards: worst for balance transfer

The Community Bank Maximum Rewards® Visa Signature® Card made WalletHub's list of the worst cards this year (for the first time) because it is expensive for people who want to reduce the burden of existing debt. The card charges a 5% (min $10) balance transfer fee and a regular APR of 24.99% - 29.99%, which kicks in after an introductory offer of just 0% for 6 months. It does offer 1.5 points for every $1 spent to be redeemed on cash back, gift cards, travel or merchandise, but the short intro rate makes it an expensive option to use long-term.

Card details. Purchase intro APR: 0% for 6 months Transfer intro APR: 0% for 6 months Transfer Fee: 5% (min $10) Regular APR: 24.99% - 29.99% Annual Fee: $0 Rewards Rate: 1.5 points / $1 Bonus Offer: 10,000 points.

Best alternative credit card: Citi Simplicity Card.

4. CorTrust Bank Visa Business Card - worst for business cards

The CorTrust Bank Visa Business card comes with a $0 annual fee, but doesn’t offer rewards or low introductory interest rates. Since many (probably most) small business cards come with business-oriented rewards programs, if you opt for this card, you are leaving a lot of money on the table. By the way, this is the 10th year this card made it on the Worst Credit Cards list.

Card details. Regular APR: 19.49% Annual Fee: $0.

Best alternative credit card: Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card.

Other key findings from the study

• Credit card debt hit a record $1.14 trillion in August of this year.
• 64% of people have nightmares about money
• Some of the worst credit cards charge fees up to $995 and have APRs as high as 36%.
• 46% of people are very fearful of this economy.
• 28% of Americans say an unplanned emergency is their biggest financial fear, 20% say it's not having enough retirement savings and 17% say it’s job loss.
  

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As an independent publication dedicated to helping you make the most of your money, the article above is our view of the best deals and is not the opinion of any entity mentioned such as a card issuer, hotel, airline etc. Similarly, the content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of those entities.

The CFPB is also banning Goldman Sachs from introducing a new credit card unless the company can provide a credible plan that the product will comply with the law. In fact, if Goldman Sachs makes another attempt to enter the credit card market, the CFPB plans to police the company to avoid repeat offenses.

“Apple and Goldman Sachs illegally sidestepped their legal obligations for Apple Card borrowers. Big Tech companies and big Wall Street firms should not behave as if they are exempt from federal law,” said CFPB Director Rohit Chopra.

What were the Apple Card failures?

The CFPB found that Apple and Goldman Sachs misled consumers about interest-free payment plans for Apple devices. And, although many customers thought they would automatically get interest-free monthly payments when buying Apple devices with their Apple Card, they were instead charged interest. The interest-free payment option on certain browsers wasn’t even shown on Apple’s website. Beyond that, the CFPB also found:

• Apple failed to send tens of thousands of consumer disputes of Apple Card transactions to Goldman Sachs, and when Apple did send disputes, Goldman Sachs did not follow federal requirements for investigating the disputes.
• Apple and Goldman Sachs launched the Apple Card despite third-party warnings that the Apple Card disputes system was not ready due to technological issues.
• Consequently, consumers faced long waits to get money back for disputed charges, and some had incorrect negative information added to their credit reports.
• Goldman Sachs misled consumers about applying some refunds, which led to consumers paying additional interest charges.

Of the $89 million, the CFPB is ordering Goldman Sachs to pay a $45 million civil money penalty and at least $19.8 million in redress to victims for its role in marketing, offering, and servicing the Apple Card. It is also ordering Apple to pay a $25 million civil money penalty to the bureau’s victims relief fund. Goldman Sachs is ordered to pay a $45 million civil money penalty and at least $19.8 million in redress to victims for its role in marketing, offering, and servicing the Apple Card. Payments from the Civil Penalty Fund depend on the amount of money available and other factors.

Apple Card / Goldman Sachs partnership

Because many of Apple’s products, such as the iPhone, are more expensive than other brands, many consumers favor financing purchases with payment plans and credit products. When Apple introduced the Apple Card in partnership with Goldman Sachs Bank in August 2019, the partnership allowed Apple to provide a financing program to help increase sales of its devices and induce spending at Apple’s retail stores and through the Apple App. At the time, the Apple Card partnership offered Goldman Sachs an opportunity to establish itself in the market.

With the Apple Card, Goldman Sachs extends credit to consumers and handles account servicing. Apple designed the customer-facing interfaces to manage Apple Card accounts on Apple devices. That includes a “Report an Issue” feature, which allows consumers to dispute Apple Card transactions. Apple was also deeply involved in marketing and advertising.

In December 2019, Apple and Goldman Sachs launched a new feature called Apple Card Monthly Installments. This feature allows users to finance the purchase of certain Apple devices with Apple Card directly from Apple through interest-free monthly installments, similar to a Buy Now, Pay Later product. However, when Apple’s customers experienced improper charges or filed disputes, the systems developed by the companies failed to address them.

Are you affected by the CFPB action?

According to the Civil Penalty Fund’s website, you could be eligible to receive a payment through the fund if you “were harmed by an unlawful activity where a fine was imposed in a CFPB case,” and you “won’t otherwise receive full compensation from the wrongdoer.” But you’ll have to wait until details about the distribution are available. Until then, you can submit complaints about financial products and services by visiting the CFPB’s website. Or, if you think you may be due a portion of the funds, call (855) 411-CFPB (2372).

If you're worried it's the end of the line for the Apple Card, think again. For the third consecutive year, Apple Card has been recognized with a No. 1 ranking in their segment in the U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Study. Apple announced in November 2023 that it would end its credit card partnership with Goldman Sachs and has not announced which bank might be its new partner.

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Used strategically, “rewards are free money,” says Ted Rossman, senior industry analyst for CreditCards.com and Bankrate. For instance, Rossman earned more than $2,300 in cash back last year by paying for everyday expenses such as food, gas and streaming services for his family of four using three cash back credit cards: American Express Blue Cash Preferred ($95 annual fee, waived the first year), Chase Freedom Flex and Wells Fargo Active Cash. “That’s meaningful,” he says. “Credit card rewards are an inflation buster.”

As the holiday season approaches, this is an ideal time to get some extra cash back in your bank account, as well as to capitalize on credit card perks that can make everything from gift buying to travel more affordable and enjoyable. (Just make sure you pay off your credit card balance in full each month to avoid interest charges).

Ready to get more out of your credit card rewards? Here’s what to do. 

Understand your current credit card's rewards

Familiarize yourself with the rewards that each of your credit cards provide. Rewards typically come in one of three forms: cash back as a percentage of your purchases; points, which can be redeemed for items and services such as merchandise, gift cards, cash and travel; or miles, which are mainly exchangeable for travel-related awards, such as flights or hotel stays. 

To get details, call your credit card issuer’s customer service line or look up your benefits on its website or app. When you review rewards information online or on paper, pay attention to the asterisks and plus signs that designate footnotes, as they often list additional perks and restrictions. “Read the fine print,” advises Daisy Hernandez, credit cards editor at The Points Guy, a website that provides tips and tools for managing rewards. There may be limits, for example, on the total amount of rewards you can earn in a certain category or over a specific period. 

Then make a list of which cards are best to use for specific spending situations, such as buying groceries, getting gas and dining out. For instance, you may get 6% cash back on groceries with one card and 2% cash back with another. In that case, you’ll want to pull out the former when you shop for food. Or, if you are planning to travel abroad, bring a card with no foreign transaction fees. “Know the ins and outs of your program, and match your lifestyle to your card,” says Rossman.

If memorization isn’t your strong suit, create a quick-reference guide that lists which cards to use for different purposes. Keep it in a handy place, such as in your wallet or the notes app on your phone. You can even jot down details directly on your credit cards in permanent marker or wrap the card in a sticky note that specifies where to use it. 

Keeping track may feel daunting at first, but you’ll eventually develop a routine, says Hernandez. “It can take a little while to get there, but once it’s set in your head, you’ll automatically know what to reach for,” she says. 

Explore other credit card options

If you’re still using a credit card that you opened decades ago, it’s likely time for an upgrade. In fact, all of your low- or no-reward cards might need a refresh. “If you have old cards languishing, there’s probably something better out there for you,” says Rossman. 

But be aware that if you close any of your existing cards, eventually they’ll stop contributing to the length of your credit history — and a long credit history boosts your credit score. (Accounts that are closed in good standing, however, remain on your credit report and contribute to your credit-history length for up to 10 years). In addition, your overall credit limit among all the cards you have will decrease when you close a card. If you have balances on other cards that you keep open, your credit-utilization ratio — the percentage of available credit that you use on your cards — could rise, and a high utilization ratio hurts your credit score. It’s often best to leave a card open even if you don’t plan to use it much, unless you’re paying an annual fee.  

Alternatively, you could ask your issuer about a “product upgrade,” which allows you to switch to a different card from the same provider while keeping your account history and available credit. You can also explore getting a completely new card that matches your spending patterns and goals. We've rounded up the best rewards credit cards in a dozen categories to help you choose. 

Avoid applying for several credit cards at once. Each application creates a “hard” inquiry from the lender on your credit report, and multiple card inquiries that appear in a short period can ding your credit score. The general advice is to apply for credit no more than once every six months or so, says Rossman. 

The holiday season can be an ideal time to apply for a new card. Many come with sign-up bonuses of extra cash or other perks, which can offset gift-buying bills or help with travel expenses. In addition, you often need to spend a certain amount to earn those bonuses, which can tie in nicely during a period when most people naturally increase their spending. 

Before applying, carefully assess a card’s advantages and restrictions. Check to see whether it has an annual fee. If so, make sure the rewards will outweigh the cost for you. As an example, Hernandez says that one of her credit cards has a $95 annual fee. Yet she’s earned more than five times that amount back in rewards within a year. “That card is more than worth it,” she says. “That’s money back in my pocket.”

Both she and Rossman caution that you should sign up for a new card only if you can pay off the balance in full each month. Also, prioritize paying off any existing credit card debt before opening a new card. “If you have credit card debt, don’t play the rewards game,” says Rossman. “It’s not worth paying 20% interest to get 1%, 2% or even 5% in cash back.”

When choosing the card that’s best for you, use a “know thyself” approach, he adds. Find one that matches your preferences, spending style and comfort level. 

If juggling multiple rewards cards feels overwhelming, you can still reap significant value from a basic card that offers 2% cash back on all spending. In fact, for many people, a 2% card could outperform a card that gives you, say, 5% in one category and 1% on everything else. Consider Citi Double Cash and Wells Fargo Active Cash, which both offer 2% back on everything you buy. 

Supercharge your credit card rewards

In general, you’ll get the most value if you redeem your rewards in a way that aligns with your card’s primary purpose, says Rossman. If you have a travel card, it’s usually best to redeem points or miles that you earn with it for travel-related perks. With Chase Sapphire Preferred ($95 annual fee), for example, points are worth 1.25 cents apiece when you use them to book reservations through Chase Travel; otherwise, you get a value of 1 cent per point if you redeem them for cash back or gift cards. With many American Express cards, point values are often strongest if you trade points for certain travel-related purchases, such as flights booked through American Express Travel. 

If you have a standard cash-back card, resist the urge to redeem your rewards when shopping online or paying at a store checkout counter; the redemption value is usually weaker than what you’ll get if you exchange the rewards for a statement credit or a check. “Normally, when you redeem at Amazon or another retailer, you’ll get a rate of something like 0.8 cent per point,” Rossman says. (Some cash-back cards issue rewards as points, which can be redeemed for cash or other options.) “Whereas with a statement credit, you’re going to get a full cent per point. So if you have a 2% cash back card and you redeem your rewards at Amazon, you’re probably getting the equivalent of about 1.6% cash back.” 

But there is a method to get better value out of points or miles when you redeem them with retailers, airlines and hotels that you frequently patronize: Use a co-branded credit card. Co-branded cards, such as the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express card ($150 annual fee, waived the first year) and the Amazon Visa and Prime Visa cards, often offer the best rates when you use rewards to make purchases from the corresponding brand.

Another way you can earn extra rewards and score discounts is by shopping through your credit card’s online portal, which may offer everything from beauty products and electronics to travel-related purchases. Keep an eye out for notifications about special offers and promotions through which you can get additional benefits during a certain period, such as the holiday season. In general, you’ll have to opt in for these deals. 

While it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of maximizing rewards, it’s also critical to make decisions based on your needs and desires. “Consider your financial goals,” Hernandez says. Do you want cash back to use on gifts? Are you aiming to earn enough miles for a free flight to your friend’s New Year’s Eve extravaganza? Or do you desire enough points for a free night at a hotel, so you have somewhere to stay when attending family get-togethers? These decisions should all factor into which cards you choose to prioritize.

Access exclusive experiences and events

Certain credit cards can grant you early, exclusive and even free entry to a wide range of experiences, from concerts and music festivals to theater performances, museums and sporting events.

For instance, holders of Capital One Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cards were able to access an allocation of presale tickets for Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour. And Bank of America credit and debit card holders get free general admission during the first full weekend of every month to more than 225 U.S. cultural institutions, which include space and science museums, botanical gardens, and cultural centers. 

In addition, your cards may snag you hard-to-get reservations at some of the world’s top restaurants, better seats on a flight, or access to more-convenient parking areas at events. You may also enjoy entry into airport and venue lounges that often have Wi-Fi, complimentary snacks, and free or discounted drinks. At hotels, you may get free breakfast, late check-out, and dining and spa credits. “It’s the whole champagne-travel-on-a-beer-budget kind of thing,” says Rossman.

If you’re planning to catch any shows, be sure to check out your card’s perks. For instance, Chase cardholders who plan to attend the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes in New York City can get preferred seating and 20% off food and nonalcoholic beverages. 

You may even come across perks that benefit the kids. For instance, families who have the Disney Visa card can get special access to Disney and Star Wars characters at Walt Disney World.

And if the holidays are a time when you give back to others, your rewards can help there as well: Many credit card issuers allow you to exchange rewards for charitable donations.

Monitor and manage your rewards

Staying on top of your credit card rewards takes some effort, but you’ll make the most of what you have coming to you if you’re organized. For starters, make sure you know whether your rewards will expire. Most credit card programs don’t impose expiration dates on rewards you earn while your account remains in good standing. But there are exceptions, so check your card’s terms. 

Along with staying on top of the cash back, points or miles you’ve earned, it’s important to track one-time or yearly perks such as a free night at a hotel, complimentary streaming-service subscriptions, or shopping credits at select retailers. Also monitor annual fee amounts and their renewal dates, and check your issuer’s policies on account inactivity if you rarely use a card; the issuer may lower your credit limit or close the card if you don’t use it much.

Many credit card issuers have apps and online dashboards where you can track rewards, view your benefits and activate offers. Third-party apps, such as those from AwardWallet, MaxRewards, CardPointers and The Points Guy, can help you to monitor your rewards, too.

For Hernandez’s part, she keeps tabs on her seven personal credit cards in a more traditional, hands-on way. “I track everything on a spreadsheet,” she says. This approach helps her stay on top of perks, annual fees and more. “I want to make sure I’m getting the most value out of my cards.”

Don't overlook these extras

Many credit cards offer even more perks and protections than you might realize. “Certain cards will give you everything from rental car insurance to trip cancellation and interruption protection to coverage for lost or delayed luggage,” says Ted Rossman, senior industry analyst for CreditCards.com and Bankrate. “Some airline cards will give you a free checked bag for each member of your family when you travel, which can save you a ton of money.”

Here are some of the many benefits to check into:

• A credit to cover the cost of an application for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or CLEAR Plus, all of which provide expedited security screening at the airport. If you already have these services or don’t need them, you can use the credit to pay for someone else’s application and still get reimbursed, says Daisy Hernandez, credit cards editor at The Points Guy, a website that provides tips and tools for managing rewards.
• Extended-warranty coverage and purchase protection, which provide a repair, replacement or reimbursement if eligible merchandise is damaged or stolen. These benefits, which usually provide coverage within a certain window of time, often apply to items such as TVs, appliances and cell phones. Note that you typically need to pay for the item with the credit card to get coverage. (In the case of your cell phone, you usually must pay the monthly bill with that card, and a deductible may apply if you have to replace the phone.)
• Limited roadside-assistance services, such as tire changes, jump starts and short-distance towing. These benefits vary, and fees may apply.
• Credit-score updates and identity theft protection, which may include monitoring of your credit reports for signs of fraudulent activity and assistance with recovery if you become an ID theft victim.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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Experian research shows three in five adults attribute financial mistakes to their limited understanding of credit and personal finance, with these mistakes costing $1,000 or more for 60% of this group. This trend is particularly apparent among younger groups with over two-thirds of Gen Zers and Millennials claiming their inadequate knowledge of credit and personal finance has come at a price. In fact, 29% of Gen Zers and 38% of Millennials report these financial mistakes have cost $5,000 or more.  

Unlike everyday mishaps, errors in managing your credit can impact your financial stability, limit your opportunities and even affect your future goals. Avoiding financial pitfalls is crucial because, while we can learn from our mistakes, there’s no need to experiment with our financial health, or funds, when there are tools and educational resources available to help prevent costly errors.  

Here are five common credit mistakes people make and practical advice on how to steer clear of them: 

They don’t check their credit report

It’s a common misconception that checking your own credit report can negatively impact your credit score. This is not true. You can and should check your credit report regularly. Doing so is one of the best ways to see where you stand from a credit perspective, detect potentially fraudulent activity and identify ways to strengthen your credit history. You can also get a free weekly credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies at AnnualCreditReport.com.  

They miss payments

Nothing will sink your credit scores quicker or more significantly than missing payments. In fact, a single missed payment will stay on your credit report for seven years and will impact your credit scores the entire time it’s there.

Setting up autopay can be a helpful tool to ensure bills are paid on time. If you think you may miss a payment, contact your lender before it happens. They may be willing to work with you or set up payment accommodations to help prevent the negative impact on your credit score.  

They carry a balance on their credit card

Many people think they need to carry a balance from month to month to build credit, but this is not true. Credit can be a financial tool; it’s debt that can be a financial problem. While it’s important to show regular activity on your credit cards in order for them to be factored into your credit scores, this does not mean you need to carry a balance. All carrying a balance will do is cost you money in the form of interest you’ll have to pay on the balance.

It’s best to pay off the balances on credit cards in full right away if you can. This is because your utilization rate, or your balance-to-limit ratio, is one of the most important factors in determining your credit score. People with the highest credit scores tend to have utilization rates of less than 10% and more often pay their balances in full each month than those with lower scores.

You never want your balances to exceed 30% of your available credit limit. Keep in mind 30% is not a goal or a target. The closer you are to 30%, the more rapidly your scores will decrease. 

They think their credit history only impacts their ability to secure credit

The truth is, credit is a financial tool that can unlock many of the things we want in life — not just access to credit cards, auto loans or things of that nature. Your credit history can impact your ability to get the latest cellphone, qualify for an apartment, lower your insurance rates, utility deposits and more. It’s important to take care of your credit history, so it’s there to work for you when you need it.  

They don’t use the financial tools available to them

Today, you can get credit for the bills you already pay with tools that allow you to self-report your payments for qualifying rent or other alternative data, such as cellphone, utility, etc., for the opportunity to increase your credit score. 

Mistakes are an often inevitable fact of life, but knowledge truly is power when it comes to financial wellness. By staying informed and proactive, you can avoid these pitfalls and build a strong credit foundation.  

Related Content

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• 5 Ways a Bad Credit Report Can Hurt You
• Why You Should Keep Your Credit Cards Active

The information provided here is not investment, tax or financial advice. You should consult with a licensed professional for advice concerning your specific situation.

These so-called junk fees have been targeted by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), which has been rolling out new rules to rein in excessive and unnecessary charges.

Now that the Trump administration aims to shutter the CFPB, consumers may have to be more vigilant about spotting (and avoiding) sneaky fees.

Here are steps you can take to minimize those extra fees or skip them altogether.

How to avoid fees at the airport

Airline seat-selection fees

Typical amount: $10 to $50 for standard seats; $20 to $100 or more for seats with extra legroom or in preferred locations, such as at the front of the plane or in exit rows

Southwest Airlines recently announced that it is shifting from an open seating policy to assigned seats and seats for purchase — the model other major airlines use.

The primary way to avoid a seat-selection fee is to opt out of choosing a seat. But if you're traveling with friends or family and want to sit together, you'll need to purchase a ticket that includes seat selection.

With the exception of budget airlines like Spirit, most major airlines include some degree of seat selection with main-cabin tickets. You’ll usually have your pick of many seats on the plane, especially if you book well ahead of time.

However, you may still have to pay extra for the most desirable seats. And if you book a basic economy fare, fees are usually unavoidable if you want to choose where you sit.

Some airlines, including American and JetBlue, guarantee that parents can sit next to their children on a flight at no extra charge. With others, family members who want to be sure that they’ll be seated together have to book tickets that include seat selection or pay fees to choose their seats.

If you're traveling with kids, check the U.S. Department of Transportation's Airline Family Seating Dashboard. The department created this central hub to make it easier for flyers to compare family seating policies across major airlines at a glance.

If you've already booked a flight with a carrier that has no family seating guarantee and you don’t want to pony up for seat selection, try asking to be seated with your family at the gate before boarding the plane.

Airline baggage fees 

Typical amount: $25 to $35 for first checked bag; $50 to $150 each for additional checked baggage. One checked bag per ticket is typically included with the fare for an international flight; additional fees for international flights vary widely.

After Southwest ditched its free checked bag policy earlier this month, there are officially no domestic airlines left that allow you to check your bag for free.

You can usually avoid checked baggage fees by packing everything you need in a carry-on and a personal item that fits underneath the seat in front of you.

However, some airlines, including JetBlue and United, do not include a free carry-on bag with basic economy tickets.

Some credit cards that are co-branded with airlines — including Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express ($150 annual fee, waived the first year), United Explorer ($95, waived the first year) and Citi/AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite ($99, waived the first year) — offer a free checked bag as a perk.

And if you have elite status with an airline, you can often check bags at no extra charge.

In-flight Wi-Fi fees 

Typical amount: $8 to $10

Overall, in-flight Wi-Fi has gotten faster, better and less expensive, says Sean Cudahy, aviation reporter for travel website The Points Guy.

JetBlue has offered free Wi-Fi for years. Delta Air Lines plans to have free Wi-Fi on most of its domestic mainline flights by the end of 2024 and on most international and regional flights by the end of 2025. You need a Delta SkyMiles account to access it, but there’s no charge to join.

If you’re flying with an airline that charges for Wi-Fi, see whether your credit card will reimburse or discount the fees. For example, the United Quest card ($250) offers up to $125 in statement credits each year for United purchases you make with the card, including in-flight Wi-Fi.

How to avoid other travel fees

Hotel resort fees 

Typical amount: $20 to $50 per night

About 6% of hotels and resorts charge resort fees, according to the American Hotel and Lodging Association.

These properties — which are typically located in cities that are popular with tourists, such as Las Vegas, Miami and Orlando — tack on the charges to cover amenities such as Wi-Fi and access to a fitness center.

At ResortFeeChecker.com, you can look up properties to see how much they charge. If you don’t expect to use the amenities the fee covers, ask the hotel to remove it from your bill.

Hilton and Hyatt hotels waive the fee if you book a stay with loyalty rewards points or a free-night award.

Rental car insurance 

Typical amount: Between $13 and $30 per day

If you own a car, you likely don’t need additional insurance when you rent a car in the U.S. because your own auto insurance policy will cover loss or damage to the rental car.

However, if your personal auto policy lacks collision and comprehensive insurance, your rental car may be underinsured in an accident or mishap.

For travel both inside and outside of the U.S., you might be covered if you pay for the reservation with a credit card that offers rental car insurance, although most cards exclude Italy, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Australia, Israel, Jamaica and New Zealand.

Chase Sapphire Preferred ($95) and Chase Sapphire Reserve ($550) offer some of the strongest car-rental benefits among credit cards.

Additional driver fees 

Typical amount: $5 to $15 per person, per day

Many rental car companies charge a fee to allow someone other than the person listed on the contract to drive the car.

But some, including Dollar, Hertz, Sixt and Thrifty, don’t charge this fee if the other driver is a spouse or domestic partner who is also a member of their loyalty or rewards programs.

Avis and Budget waive the fee for Costco Wholesale members who rent through Costco Travel. Alamo and Enterprise don’t charge the fee at all in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., France, Germany, Ireland and Spain.

Foreign transaction fees 

Typical amount: 1% to 3% of the transaction amount

When you make a purchase with a merchant outside the U.S. or withdraw money from an ATM abroad, you’re often subject to a foreign-transaction fee. Recently, Uber even added 1.5% fee to its app when ordering a ride somewhere that uses a different currency than your home country.

In the Uber app, you'll need to set your currency preferences to "no preferred currency" to avoid the extra charge.

For everything else, use a debit or credit card with no foreign-transaction fees to avoid the added costs on every transaction.

Many travel-focused credit cards offer this perk, and Capital One and Discover don’t charge the fee on any of their credit cards.

Among checking accounts, customers who use Schwab Bank Investor Checking or Capital One 360 Checking don’t pay foreign-transaction fees when they use their debit cards.

One more tip: If a merchant abroad asks whether you’d like to pay in U.S. dollars or in the local currency, always choose the local currency.

If you don't, you’ll likely be charged a dynamic currency conversion fee, which is typically higher than a standard foreign transaction fee because you are being charged for the convenience of paying in your home currency.

How to avoid dining and entertainment fees

Food-delivery fees 

Typical amount: Delivery fees range from about $2 to $8, and you may pay a service charge of 15% to 30%, too

You’ll pay extra for the convenience of having services such as DoorDash, Grubhub and Uber Eats deliver restaurant meals to your doorstep.

You may be able to dodge delivery fees by searching for deals in the “offers” section of the delivery service’s app. Restaurant chains such as Cheesecake Factory and Jimmy John’s, for example, offer free delivery when you place your first order with them on DoorDash.

If you order takeout frequently, consider joining a subscription plan such as DashPass, Grubhub+ or Uber One (all are $9.99 a month), which waive the delivery fee on eligible orders.

Sometimes, you may be able to get these subscription plans for free if you have the right credit card or membership. Amazon Prime members, for example, can use GrubHub+ free. Some Chase credit cards provide a free DashPass subscription.

Otherwise, ordering food directly from restaurants’ apps and websites may help you skip extra fees. Applebee’s delivers food free if your order totals at least $40, for example, and McDonald’s provides free delivery for new users of the McDonald’s app.

Peer-to-peer transfer fees 

Typical amount: 3% of the amount transferred to send money with a credit card; about 0.5% to 1.75% for an instant transfer from the app to your bank account

Peer-to-peer payment apps, such as Cash App, Venmo and Zelle make it remarkably easy to transfer money to friends and family — say, to split the bill after a dinner out.

However, if you use a credit card to send money through a payment app, you’ll often pay a fee of about 3%.

You can usually skip the fee by transferring funds directly from your bank account or debit card (note, however, that PayPal charges a fee for debit card transfers).

When your friends send money to you, be aware that an instant transfer from the app balance to your bank account costs extra in most cases. If you’re not in a hurry, use a standard transfer instead — it may take one to three business days for the funds to reach your bank account, but you pay no fee.

One exception: Zelle allows customers of participating banks to send money instantly to each other’s checking accounts — even among different institutions — typically for free.

Ticket convenience fees 

Typical amount: An average 27% of the ticket price, according to the Government Accountability Office

Ticketmaster, StubHub and other online sellers of tickets for concerts, movies and other events often charge service or convenience fees, as well as a facility charge to cover the venue’s costs. If you resell a ticket on Ticketmaster’s platform, you’ll pay a resale fee, too.

Try buying tickets directly from the venue’s box office instead. It may be less convenient than purchasing tickets online, but you’ll likely pay less in fees.

How to avoid credit card fees

Late-payment fees 

Typical amount: An average of $32, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Credit card companies usually charge a late fee if you fail to make the minimum bill payment by the due date.

To avoid paying late, set up automatic payments to at least cover the minimum payment due. You can always make extra payments later to pay off the balance. If you don't like the idea of autopay, put a monthly reminder on your calendar.

If you miss a payment, call your card issuer and ask to remove the fee, says Ted Rossman, senior industry analyst at Bankrate. A 2024 LendingTree survey found that 89% of cardholders who asked their card company to waive a late fee were successful.

As a policy, some issuers, such as Discover, will waive the fee the first time you make a late payment. But missing a payment by 30 or more days will likely hurt your credit score, so you shouldn’t make a habit of it.

Annual fees 

Typical amount: $105, according to the CFPB

Some credit cards charge an annual fee in exchange for rewards that are more plentiful than those you’d get with a no-fee card, such as travel perks or extra cash back, points or miles on certain purchases.

Before signing up for a card with an annual fee, make a list of the perks you'll actually use. Then, do the math to decide whether the value of your card’s rewards outweigh the annual fee. If they don’t, switch to a card that charges no annual fee.

Another idea: Try asking the issuer to remove the fee for one year, Rossman suggests. If you’re a long-term cardholder and pay your bills on time, you may have better odds of getting the fee waived, he says.

Cash-advance fees 

Typical amount: The greater of 3% to 5% of the transaction amount or $10

A cash advance is a quick way to tap into your credit line if you need to get cash in a pinch, but you’ll typically pay a hefty fee for the convenience. Worse, interest starts to accrue immediately. Whenever possible, withdraw cash from your bank account instead.

Likewise, if your card issuer mails you convenience checks, don’t use them, says Matt Schulz, chief credit analyst for LendingTree. If you cash one of these checks, it will likely be treated as a cash advance, which means you’ll pay fees and higher interest rates on the money.

Surcharges for credit card purchases 

Typical amount: 1.5% to 3.5% of the transaction, according to Bankrate

While the practice is illegal in a few states, most states allow restaurants, gas stations and retailers impose a surcharge when customers pay with a credit card.

The surcharge is meant to cover the payment processing fees that merchants pay to card networks each time a customer uses a credit card.

Depending on where you are, you'll either see a notice of how much extra you'll pay for using a credit card or you'll see a "cash discount" price — the lower price you'll pay if you use cash or a debit card.

If you're unsure what a particular merchant's policy is, you can either ask or just pay with cash or a debit card instead. According to rules established by card issuers like Visa and Mastercard, businesses can’t charge you extra for using a debit card.

How to avoid banking fees

Overdraft fees 

Typical amount: About $35

If you overdraw your checking account, your bank may hit you with a costly overdraft fee.

You can opt out of overdraft protection to avoid the fee. But, if you do, be aware that if you attempt a debit card purchase that would cause your account balance to go into the red, it may be declined.

Another way to circumvent overdraft fees is to link your checking to your savings account. If you make a payment and there are insufficient funds in your checking account, the funds can be automatically withdrawn from your savings account. Call your bank first to see if it offers this service and, if so, what specific steps you need to take to set it up.

While some financial institutions impose a fee for these transfers — often of $10 to $12 — it’s significantly cheaper than a $35 overdraft charge.

ATM out-of-network fees 

Typical amount: An average $4.73 in combined charges from the bank and the ATM’s owner, according to Bankrate

When you use an out-of-network ATM, your bank may hit you with a fee, and the ATM operator will likely charge you, too.

You can beat the charges by limiting withdrawals to ATMs within your bank’s network. Your bank may operate its own machines, participate in a broad network such as Allpoint or MoneyPass, or both.

If you can’t find an in-network ATM, you may be able to sidestep ATM fees by making a debit card purchase with a merchant and asking for cash back. Many stores will do this for free, but some charge up to about $3.

A final option: Use a checking account that reimburses you the fees for using out-of-network ATMs. Axos Bank, for example, provides unlimited domestic ATM rebates with its CashBack and Rewards checking accounts.

Account maintenance fees 

Typical amount: For interest-bearing checking accounts, an average $15.33, according to Bankrate; $5.31 for checking accounts that don’t pay interest

The easiest way to skip monthly maintenance fees is to open an account that doesn’t charge them. Several online banks offer free accounts. Ally Bank, for example, charges no monthly fee on its checking, savings or money market deposit accounts.

If your account does levy maintenance fees, you may be able to bypass them by meeting certain requirements, such as keeping a specified minimum balance or making a certain amount in monthly direct deposits.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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Two American Express options, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card, provide updated welcome offers for new cardholders — 100k and 85k Marriott Bonvoy bonus points, respectively. The cards' solid rewards rates — 6X points for each dollar of eligible purchases at participating hotels — can help frequent travelers accumulate points.

But should you get one of these cards?

We'll be straight with you. We were impressed by the cards' most recent welcome offers, with 100,000 bonus points for the Brilliant card.

Until then, Kiplinger had found the Amex line of Marriott Bonvoy cards decidedly less appealing than their nearest competitor, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card from Chase. That card's welcome offer is 50,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in purchases in your first three months. Its $95 annual fee is much lower than the Amex Bonvoy cards profiled here, which charge $250 for the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express® Card. See rates and fees. And $650 for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. It also provides one free night per year. See rates and fees.

If you are a committed Marriott customer, the Chase Boundless card might be a better choice. But if you're well entrenched in the American Express system, you may prefer one of these Amex cards.

Although they have higher annual fees, they also come with other benefits that may be attractive to you. For example, the Brilliant card makes it easier to qualify for higher status levels, which come with higher rates of rewards earning and other perks.

All these cards maddeningly start with the letter B, so we've broken out the most important details for you below.

Amex Marriott Bonvoy card bonus offer

For the Amex Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. And for the Amex Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card, earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. See rates and fees.

Another attractive benefit both cards offer is the free night award, which rewards cardholders with one free night at participating hotels every year, up to a redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points for the Brilliant card or 50,000 points for the Bevy card.

Card overviews

• Welcome offer: Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Rewards rates: Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy; Earn 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. and 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
• Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®, such as Le Metropolitan, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Paris. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide.
• Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit: Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Brilliant Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
• $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
• Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
• Cell phone protection: With Cell Phone Protection*, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. *Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• Annual fee: $650
• No foreign transaction fees
• Interest rates: 19.74%-28.74% variable
• Terms Apply
• See Rates & Fees

• Welcome offer: Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Rewards rates:
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®;
  • Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points);
  • Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
• Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® Free Night Award: Earn 1 Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at a participating hotel. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year, receive 15 Elite Night Credits towards the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy® member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
• Marriott Bonvoy 1K Bonus Points Per Stay: Earn 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points per paid eligible stay booked directly with Marriott for properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
• Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elites status: With complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elites status, earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy on eligible hotel purchases with the 25% Bonus Points on stays benefit, available for Qualifying Rates.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Annual fee: $250
• Interest rates: 19.74%-28.74% variable rate
• Terms Apply
• Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card (Rates & Fees)" target="_blank">See Rates and Fees

Bottom line on Marriott Bonvoy Cards

If you're a frequent traveler and Marriott and Amex loyalist, the welcome offers on either of the cards mentioned above might be worth it. But before chasing those credit card rewards, you'll want to weigh the benefits of each card against its fees to determine if it will be a valuable addition to your wallet — $650 is a pretty steep fee to offset.

And, of course, if you are using a credit card, use it wisely. Make sure you're not overspending and are paying off your balance each month. Steep interest rates on credit cards can sink you even further into debt if you carry a balance from month to month.

If you want to compare more credit cards, try our tool below.

Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

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As an independent publication dedicated to helping you make the most of your money, the article above is our view of the best deals and is not the opinion of any entity mentioned such as a card issuer, hotel, airline etc. Similarly, the content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of those entities.

Plus, by monitoring transactions, you can get a sense of where your money is going — and detect any fraudulent purchases quickly. Here’s how to read the fine print. 

Account summary

The account summary shows activity during the most recent billing period. At the top, you’ll see the balance from the end of your card’s previous billing cycle, which may be called the previous balance. Then you’ll see the amount you made in payments, which is subtracted from the previous balance. 

The account summary also includes the total amount of purchases and credits (for example, refunds for items you returned to a merchant), balance transfers, cash advances, any past due amount, fees charged, and interest that has accrued since the last billing cycle. Additionally, you’ll see the starting and closing dates of the billing cycle, which usually lasts 28 to 31 days. Transactions occurring after the closing date will show up on your next bill. 

Your statement balance (which may be called the new balance) shows the amount you owe at the end of the billing cycle. Your credit limit, as well as the amount of credit available to you after subtracting your card’s balance, appears in the account summary, too. 

Payment information

Perhaps the most important line in this section is your payment due date. Your payment is usually considered to be on time if you submit it by 5 p.m. in your time zone on the due date shown, if it’s a weekday; if the due date falls on a weekend or holiday, then you have until the next weekday to pay your balance. 

If you send your credit card payment by mail, try to mail it well before the due date so you won’t incur late fees. Your credit card bill provides a payment coupon to include with your check or money order.

The payment section also lists the minimum payment due, which is the amount required to avoid a penalty, as well as a warning that explains how much you’ll owe in fees and higher interest if you fail to pay by the due date. In addition, this section explains the number of months or years it will take to pay off the balance if you make only minimum payments. By paying your balance on time and in full every month, you can avoid a lengthy repayment time, interest charges and late fees. 

Changes to your account

If your account terms change, those differences are listed here. For example, if your card company increases your interest rate or adds more fees, you’ll be informed in this section and given at least 45 days’ notice before the changes take effect. If you trigger a penalty interest rate by paying late or exceeding your credit limit, you’ll see the rate increase here.

Transactions

This section provides a summary of your purchases and other transactions since your last statement, showing exactly where your money is going, says Ted Rossman, senior industry analyst at Bankrate. Every purchase you made is listed, along with the date of the purchase and identity of the merchant. 

Inspect this part of your statement closely for any unfamiliar or forgotten charges, such as free-trial subscriptions that turned into paid services after the trial ended, Rossman says. You should also scrutinize the list for transactions you don’t recognize, which could indicate fraud. If you see a purchase you don’t recall making, contact the merchant first. If you can’t resolve the issue with the merchant, write a letter to your credit card company to dispute the charge. 

Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, you have 60 days after the date the billing statement was sent to you to dispute an erroneous charge. Your credit card provider must investigate and resolve the dispute within two complete billing cycles — but no more than 90 days — of receiving the letter. 

If the card provider determines that the charges were unauthorized, the law limits your liability to $50, no matter how much was charged to your card. Many card companies offer zero-liability protection as long as you notify them of suspected fraud within 30 days of receiving your statement and noticing the error. 

Fees and interest charges

This section tells you the total amount you’ve been charged in interest and fees for the current year. If you’ve been paying fees, look for ways to avoid them, Rossman says. For example, setting up automatic payments of your credit card bill will ensure that your payments arrive on time.

Keep in mind that you can ask your card provider to lower your interest rate or waive fees, too. A recent survey by LendingTree found that three-fourths of consumers who requested a lower interest rate on one of their credit cards in the past year were successful.

Interest charge calculations

At the bottom of your credit card statement, you’ll see how interest on your payments is calculated. This section includes the annual percentage rate (APR) for purchases, balance transfers and cash advances. 

It also details the balances subject to the current APR and any changes in your interest rate. For example, if you had an introductory purchase APR of 0%, you’ll see when that rate will expire. 

Credit card rewards

If you have a rewards credit card, this section shows the amount of cash back, points or miles you’ve earned and redeemed. This is useful if you’re planning to use your rewards to take a trip or pay for another big expense. 

How long to keep your credit card statement

Jim Droske, owner of Illinois Credit Services, a credit-repair company, says it’s important to have access to your credit card statements in case you want to dispute a fraudulent charge or need them for tax documentation. 

If you receive paper statements, store them in a safe place for at least 60 days to dispute a fraudulent charge or for up to six years if you need them for your taxes. If you manage your account online, consider downloading electronic copies of your statements to a password-protected file on your computer.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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That said, there are no change fees on Main and First Class flights, but certain restrictions do apply. The airline may impose blackout dates and travel from some cities is limited to specific days only.  

These deals expire at 11:59 PM on August 12, 2024; you can book flights directly on Alaska’s website. If you book at an Alaska Airlines airport location or through one of their reservation call centers, you will pay an additional $15 per person over the advertised fare. Also, Saver Fares are eligible for the 24-hour cancellation policy, or a credit of 50% when canceled at least 14 days prior to your departure. 

Alaska's mileage plan

Ranked best airline credit card miles program by Kiplinger readers in a 2024 survey, Alaska's Mileage Plan program partners with 28 airlines, flying to more than 900 destinations and you earn miles through numerous airline, rental car and hotel partnerships and accrue miles through distance flown rather than dollars spent. But, keep in mind that the airline does impose blackout dates on reward travel and seating and availability on reward flights is limited. 

Free Companion Fare

If your a fan of Alaska Airlines, you can earn a free Companion Fare and 50,000 bonus miles (worth about $550) after spending $3,000 on qualifying purchases within 90 days of opening an Alaska Airlines Visa® card. Plus, Bank of America customers get a nice little boost too, bagging a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned on card purchases.

For the $95 annual fee, you’ll earn three points for every dollar spent on Alaska Airlines travel, two points on gas, cable, streaming and local transit, and one point on all other purchases. Miles do not expire on active accounts. You can also earn and redeem miles through a variety of Alaska Airlines retail and travel partners.

Other travel benefits include one free checked bag (plus get a free checked bag for up to six guests on the same reservation), priority seating and annual companion fare. In addition, with oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska's Global Partners, you can fly to over 1,000 destinations worldwide, including American Airlines and others. 

Even as the entrance rules get stricter, there are still ways for travelers to get into these increasingly exclusive and luxurious spaces. From travel credit cards that still offer complimentary lounge access to day passes for less frequent flyers, here are the various ways to get access to airport lounges right now.

Are airport lounges worth it?

Unless you’re dealing with an extensive layover or flight delay, many people try to spend as little time as possible in the airport before their flight. But even a short stay in a lounge is vastly more appealing than sitting in an uncomfortable seat at your gate and dragging your carry-on around to find a reasonably priced snack.

Not only do lounges have better WiFi, tons of comfortable seating options and televisions – they also usually offer free food and drinks, including alcoholic options. (Considering how much food and drinks cost in an airport, you may save money this way alone.)

In fact, some even have showers, for those coming off long-haul flights or running to an important destination off their next flight.

Simply put, amenity-packed lounges are quieter, cleaner, and more relaxing places to be before a flight.

How to get access to airport lounges

Travelers have many different options for gaining airport lounge access, including:

Buy a first class or business ticket

A higher-class ticket comes with many perks — including lounge access. Travel websites like Skyscanner allow you to filter plane tickets based on cabin class. However, some airlines don't have lounges or only offer complimentary access for specific ticket classes or specific routes (think Delta and American Airlines), so you’ll want to confirm the airline's lounge access policy before you purchase.

Gain elite status with an airline

Joining an airline's loyalty program is one of the most sure-fire ways to get access to an airport lounge. While you typically need to reach one of the higher tiers, some loyalty programs make it easier than others to get complimentary lounge access. Compare different programs to find the best fit and be sure to pick an airline that has lounge locations in the airports you visit most.

For example, the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan grants complimentary lounge access to MVP Gold, Gold 75K, and Gold 100K members traveling internationally, while American Airlines AAdvantage gives lounge access to Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Executive Platinum members traveling internationally.

Sign up for the right credit card

Many credit cards will offer you lounge access as a perk, especially if you sign up for a travel rewards card. Some of these cards are directly partnered with specific lounges (think the Delta SkyMiles American Express cards), while others offer more flexible perks like a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership to access lounges across different networks.

The only downside is these rewards cards typically have high annual fees and some may require a certain spending limit to get this benefit. So, it's important to calculate the overall value of the perks you'll actually use to make sure the annual fee for the card makes sense.

Buy a day pass

Many lounges allow you to purchase a pass so you can access all the amenities, either for a single visit or for a 24-hour period so you can hit lounges during any layovers along the way. Costs usually range between $35 to $80. If you don't fly often enough to justify a loyalty program or lounge membership, buying day passes as needed is going to be the most cost effective option. Of course, not every lounge offers day passes, so check online in advance to see what your options are at the airport.

Get an annual membership

If you really like a certain lounge network, you can usually buy an annual pass or membership that grants unlimited access for the year. Several offer annual membership programs, including Delta ($695) and American Airlines ($850). Just do the math on how many visits it would take to make up for the annual fee. If you don't think you'll visit lounges often enough to make the annual membership worth it, stick to buying day passes.

Enroll in Priority Pass

Priority Pass is a program that grants members access to over 1,700 lounges all around the world. As mentioned above, some credit cards offer complimentary Priority Pass membership as a perk. If you don’t get it for free through your credit card, you can simply enroll in a membership on your own. There are different tiers with different benefits, ranging from $99 to $469 a year.

Is Priority Pass worth it?

Priority Pass, like any option, has its pros and cons. If you travel quite a bit, like the idea of spending time in an airport lounge, and want to avoid high fees, Priority Pass is a smart option, offering 1,600 lounges all over the globe (including 150-plus in the United States).

There are three tiers of membership:

• Standard, $99. You pay $35 to get into a lounge, and it’s $35 to bring in a guest.
• Standard Plus, $329. You get 10 free visits a year. After that, you pay $35 for each additional visit. A guest is $35.
• Prestige, $469. You get unlimited free visits throughout the year, and a guest is $35 for each visit.

While it comes with a large network of lounges, there are certainly downsides to Priority Pass. For one, it’s not a given you’ll actually get into a lounge, even with a membership. They have limited spaces set aside for Priority Pass members.

The quality, size, and amenities offered also vary significantly between locations. So, it's important to check out the locations you're likely to visit most to see whether enrolling is worth it.

Another important downside of Priority Pass is that no tier allows you to bring in a guest for free. If you often travel with your spouse or a friend, those $35 guest passes will add up.

Finally, for the price of a higher tier membership, you can usually find a travel rewards card that includes Priority Pass Select or another lounge access perk. For about the same annual cost as a Priority Pass membership, you can get lounge access along with all the other perks that credit card includes.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards card, for instance, Kiplinger readers' favorite travel rewards credit card, has a $395 annual fee. For that, you get complimentary access to Capital One lounges and a Priority Pass Select.

It may also be more economical to sign up for a day pass each time you want to use a lounge. This largely depends on how much you’re traveling and your travel habits.

Let's say, for example, you typically travel out of the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta airport. There, you can get a day pass to The Club for $50.

If you planned to travel three times in a year, using the lounge each time, that would cost $150. Meanwhile, if you used Priority Pass at the Standard level, those same three visits would cost about $200 (the $99 annual fee plus $35 for each visit).

The costs even out around your sixth lounge visit, and the standard tier Priority Pass is more economical after your seventh visit.

The bottom line

Airport lounges aren’t just for first-class travelers! Research your credit cards and frequent flier programs to make sure you aren’t missing out on any lounge perks you may already have.

If you don’t get free lounge access already, there are plenty of other options so you can make your airport experience as comfortable as possible. Just do the math to figure out which option makes the most sense for the way you travel.

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• The New JetBlue Premier Card Is Packed With Perks – But Is It Worth the Annual Fee?
• The Five Best (and Worst) US Airports for Flight Delays
• Best Rewards Credit Cards of 2025

This Chase Ink business card could line your pocket with a welcome bonus worth $900, or more. With the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card, you earn 90,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first three months. That's $900 cash back, $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠, or up to $1,845 value when transferring points to some Chase partners.

Before you pull the trigger on this card, be sure to check out its closest competitor, the Capital One Venture X Business Card, now offering 150,000 bonus points for new cardholders.

And be sure your business really needs a credit card and not a small business loan, as we explain in the section "Should you get a business card?"

Chase Ink Business Card

• Other cardholder perks

What can you spend the bonus points on?

You may use the 90,000 bonus points in several ways.

Cash Back ($900 value) – By logging into your Chase Ultimate Rewards account, you will see options for cash back at the rate of one penny for each point. You may redeem any amount for deposit into your checking or savings account – at Chase or other major banks – or as a statement credit on your Chase Ink account. And with the Chase Pay Yourself Back program, you can get 1.25 cents back per point when donating to certain charities through December 31, 2024.

Transfer points to a partner airline frequent flyer or hotel program ($900 to $1,845 variable value) – Chase Travel℠ partners with eleven airlines and three hotel chains, so you can easily transfer your Chase points to your preferred partner program at a one-penny-per-point ratio. Since the points on these partner programs may vary in value depending on how and when you use them, the actual value of your transferred Chase points may be more or less than 1:1.

According to The Points Guy, the value of 90,000 points you'll earn from the Ink card offer is worth $1,845 (or 2.05 cents per point) when used strategically with travel partners. I wouldn't count on getting that value; not everyone has the time or energy to maximize their points.

Purchase airfare, hotel or other travel through the Chase Travel℠ portal ($1,125 value) – You may redeem the points through the Chase Travel portal at a 25% higher value.

Once you’ve spent at least $8,000 in the first three months of owning the card, you will need to wait an additional six to eight weeks for the bonus points to post to your account, so don’t plan on redeeming the bonus points immediately.

Let’s say you have a frequent flyer account with United Airlines. You may transfer the bonus 90,000 points to your United account, adding the equivalent of 90,000 miles. However, if you book your flight through the Chase Travel portal, you may redeem them at a 1:25 rate, rather than 1:1.

If anything goes wrong on your trip, you will interact with customer service agents from Chase Travel rather than United. That’s why understanding how credit card travel portals work is important. Chase tends to get average to high marks for its travel portal customer service.

Should you get a business card?

Before you apply for a business credit card, here are some potential things to keep in mind to determine whether it's the right move:

• Your credit score: Most of the top business credit cards require good or excellent credit, which means a FICO credit score of 670 or higher. If your score is lower than that, your options may be limited. Be sure you understand the details of what makes up a good credit score.
• Potential costs: Business credit cards often charge high interest rates, and some also assess an annual fee. You can avoid interest by paying your balance in full each month, but if you think you'll be carrying a balance, consider how potential interest charges could impact your bottom line. If you're thinking about getting a card with an annual fee, make sure you can get enough value from the rewards program and perks to make up for it.
• Whether you can take on another financial account: Managing multiple financial accounts can be challenging. If you already have multiple personal and business accounts to keep track of, adding another one could make things more complicated. In some cases, it can make sense to stick with what you already have, as long as you have enough accounts to keep personal and business expenses separate.
• Your reasons for wanting one: Business credit cards can help with everyday cash flow, but if you're looking to finance growth in your business beyond the initial stages, you may want to consider a small business loan instead. Also, don't think that using a business credit card will shield you from responsibility if your company goes under — business card issuers typically require a personal guarantee when you apply, so you'll still be personally liable for the debt.
• Security: Make sure you can keep the account secure, particularly from potential business partners and employees.

Read More

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• United Airlines Card Launches $900 Offer
• Best Airline Credit Card Bonuses With a Free Ticket
• Five Best U.S. Airport Lounges for Your Money

As an independent publication dedicated to helping you make the most of your money, the article above is our view of the best deals and is not the opinion of any entity mentioned such as a card issuer, hotel, airline etc. Similarly, the content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of those entities.

American Express announced major changes to its popular American Express® Gold Card recently, sending shockwaves through the credit card fanatics community (yes, that exists). If you are a current cardholder, you should decide to keep or cancel the card soon.

Based on its annual fee, the Gold is something of a mid-tier card — it's not a no-fee everyday card, but it's also not the Platinum Card, which has a whopping annual fee of nearly $700. The Amex Gold Card is a rewards credit card popular for the valuable points you can rack up via restaurants and grocery shopping and convert into flights and hotel stays.

In fact, Kiplinger rates it as one of the best travel rewards credit cards, based on the ease with which you earn points and their value when you use them. I myself am a Gold Card user and evangelist; a bulk of my spending is on food anyways, and I used Amex points from that spending to pay for my honeymoon flight to New Zealand.

But I also recognize that Amex Gold has some drawbacks, primarily that I can use it to book travel, but then struggle to use it on my travels because many stores and restaurants abroad don't accept American Express cards. Because of that, I also have other credit cards to use.

So when American Express notified Gold Card customers recently that the annual fee was going up, I paused for a moment to consider if I should keep it. Here's how I thought about that fee increase.

Is the Amex Gold Card still worth it after the membership fee increased?

The annual fee for the American Express Gold Card is now $325, up from $250. For existing customers, the new annual fee will take effect on a rolling basis beginning on the Card Members’ annual renewal date.

If you decide it's not worth the additional $75, you must cancel the card at least 30 days before your annual membership fee is due (on your cardholder signup anniversary). See rates and fees.

But in addition to the new membership fee, Amex announced the Gold Card has some new perks. Based on my very basic calculations, these perks easily offset the new membership fee — arguably even better than before.

When I consider offsetting the membership fee, I think in pure dollar signs: Taking points out of the equation, what cash do I get back in return for the membership fee?

The Gold Card perks include:

• $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit
• $50 back every six months after paying with the card at U.S.-based "Resy restaurants"

Now, add those to the existing perks, which are continuing:

• $10 back monthly in a dining credit when you use the card at "participating partners" that include Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com and Five Guys (note: Milk Bar and Shake Shack were previously eligible, but no longer are)
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold:  Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.

You can also get a $100 credit towards eligible charges if you book two or more nights with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com, but personally speaking, I'm not always sure it's easy to use hotel credits or if I'd just be spending for the sake of using the $100 in credits. But if, say, you love hotel room service and would be spending money on that whether you were given a credit or not, factor that into your own decision tree.

I've found that the two credits above, in particular, are easy to use. I order from Grubhub at least once a month, so I get that $10, which comes in the form of a credit on my Amex statement every month.

Meanwhile, the Uber credit is deposited directly and automatically into my Uber account. I don't have a car, so I tend to use Uber at least once a month, making use of that $10 directly.

If you don't use Uber rides a lot, the credit can also be used for Uber Eats, so maybe if you order food twice a month, one time you use Grubhub and one time you use Uber Eats; there's your $20 from Amex.

So, on a very basic dollar-to-dollar basis, is the new membership fee worth it? Check my math on annual costs and returns:

Based on these calculations, the previous membership fee and the perks it provided left me at a net negative of $10 (I received $240 annually on a $250 annual fee). Now, the new $325 membership fee would leave me with a net positive of $99 (I receive $424 annually on a $325 annual fee), making it a huge improvement.

But that equation comes with some caveats.

First, this is assuming you spend at least $10 via Uber every month, as previously discussed, and purchase something from Grubhub or the other participating "dining credit" options at least once a month.

Next, there's the Resy credit. Resy is a website and app you can use to make reservations at restaurants. At least where I live, in New York City, Resy is fairly widespread, with many restaurants using it as their primary way of making reservations.

To get this Amex Gold Card credit, you actually don't even need to use Resy, you just need to pay at a restaurant that uses Resy. Again, I appreciate that simplicity. But, if you avoid eating out at restaurants or live in a place where Resy isn't very common, you may miss out on this reward.

Then, this assumes you buy something at Dunkin' every month. For me personally, Dunkin' is not part of my regular routine, so there might be some months I miss out on this credit. But even if I were to not get Dunkin' at all in a calendar year, I'm still up a net positive $15 on the annual membership fee.

Please also note that you have to "enroll" to get some of these rewards, which basically means you have to click a button to say you want it.

Here's a summary of the new perks and the welcome offer.

What else does the Amex Gold Card get you?

Now, what I did here was just a basic dollar-to-dollar calculation of what you get from the Amex Gold Card. But the card offers more.

First, the Gold Card periodically provides limited-time "offers" that give money back or accrue additional points if you shop at certain stores throughout the year. Make sure to keep an eye on the "Offers" tab on the American Express app, as you have to "enroll" for those, too.

Finally, there are those points. You earn them just by going through your daily life and you can use them to book flights and hotels. I'm always a little wary of the rates you get through the booking portal, but you can also transfer points to hotel or airline partner programs and then book directly. I'm not nearly as savvy at points tricks as others, but I can't deny that it is a really nice feeling to let the points pile up and then book a flight to the other side of the world for $0.

If you are not already a Gold Card user, of course there's a welcome bonus for new credit cardholders.

You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.

I would tell you if the numbers didn't pass the sniff test here, but for me at least, the new perks are fairly easily offsetting the increased membership fee.

At the end of the day, it comes down to your own lifestyle. If you'd be going out of your way to get Dunkin' or spending more on takeout just for the sake of the monthly credit, it might not be worth it. Do the simple math for yourself and see what makes sense.

Related Content

• Amex Business Card Intro Offer
• Best Rewards Credit Cards
• Should You Use a Credit Card Travel Portal?

We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. We calculate a typical annual reward for each card, assuming $36,000 spent annually and less any annual fee. Interest rates, fees, rewards and other terms listed in this article are subject to change. Before you apply for a credit card, check its current terms and conditions with the issuer.

We've scoured our best rewards credit cards to find this "secret" credit card for Amazon shoppers. Whether you are an Amazon Prime member or not, you can maximize your savings. One card offers an instant $200 Amazon gift card, and another offers a $300 welcome offer, but you'll have to wait 120 days and $2,000 to unlock that benefit.

Best credit card for Amazon shopping

For those in the know, there are some great credit card options available to squeeze the most out of your Amazon shopping.

US Bank Shopper Cash Rewards Visa (The "Secret" 6% Back Strategy)

Your first option is the US Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® card. Why is it a "secret" strategy? Most credit card reviewers don't write about this card because it's not issued by one of the major banks, but it's still a deal. The card offers 6% cash back on the first $1,500 of combined quarterly spending at two big box retailers of your choice each quarter, including Amazon. Other retailers you can choose from include Home Depot, Kohl’s, Lowe’s, Target, Walmart and others. You’ll also earn 3% back (on up to $1,500 in quarterly spending) in a category of your choice — wholesale clubs, gas and EV charging stations, and bills and utilities — and a solid 1.5% on all other spending (most credit cards only offer 1% outside of their maximum-rebate categories).

One benefit of this card is its flexibility. For Prime Day, you can choose to earn 6% cash back at Amazon but then can change retailers afterward depending on where you typically spend the most. Plus, you can earn a $300 bonus after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening. And the $95 annual fee is waived in the first year.

Amazon Prime Visa (The 5% Back Strategy)

Option two is, of course, the Amazon Prime Visa credit card, which just raised its instant bonus offer for new cardholders to $200. The card earns an unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com and affiliated stores. It also earns 5% back on Chase Travel purchases, 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting, as well as 1% back on all other purchases. 

You’ll need to be a Prime member, however, to earn cash-back rewards. An Amazon Prime membership costs $14.99 per month or $139 per year. However, Amazon does offer a 30-day free trial if you’re still considering whether an Amazon Prime membership is worth it. 

You’ll also earn the card’s welcome bonus immediately, with no required spending. Upon approval of your credit card application, you’ll instantly receive a $200 Amazon Gift Card loaded into your Amazon account. The card also has no annual credit card fee (apart from the cost of an Amazon Prime membership).  

Can you pay for Amazon purchases with points?

We'd recommend not using credit card points to pay directly for Amazon purchases. While it may be convenient, you'll usually end up getting a lower value than if you redeemed those points elsewhere. However, according to The Points Guy, "The exception to this rule is the Prime Visa, because you’ll get the same redemption value whether you cash the points out through Amazon or for a statement credit."

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As an independent publication dedicated to helping you make the most of your money, the article above is our view of the best deals and is not the opinion of any entity mentioned such as a card issuer, hotel, airline etc. Similarly, the content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of those entities.

Southwest business cards are currently offering their largest intro bonus yet. To get the full 120,000 Rapid Rewards Points, you'll need to spend $15,000 in purchases in your first nine months. That's a value of $1,800 when redeemed for travel; it's one of the best deals in the competitive world of rewards credit cards right now.

Plus, with the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card, you get 9,000 "anniversary points" each year (worth about $135). This yearly benefit softens the pain of a $199 annual fee, meaning you'll spend about $64 a year to own this card.

Southwest business card overview

• Sign-up bonus: Earn up to 120,000 points. Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening and an additional 40,000 points when you spend $15,000 in 9 months.
• Rewards rates:
• Annual benefits: Four upgraded boardings when available and 9,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary.
• Other benefits: Add employee cards at no cost. There's no limit to the amount of employee cards you can request, and their cards also earn points.
• Redemption: Points may be redeemed for travel on Southwest Airlines or through its Rapid Rewards program; points may also be redeemed for gift cards, merchandise, and entertainment.
• Interest rate: 20.74% to 27.74% variable APR for purchases and balance transfers.
• Annual fee: $199.
• Foreign transaction fee: None, so this is a good card to use abroad.
• Member FDIC

FAQs

Is the Rapid Rewards loyalty program free?

Yes, joining Southwest's loyalty program, Rapid Rewards, is free.

Do the points expire?

No, Rapid Rewards points do not expire. If you close your account, however, you'll forfeit the points.

Are there blackout dates?

There are no blackout dates or seat restrictions on Rapid Rewards points.

How much is a Rapid Rewards point worth?

A recent Bankrate valuation shows that each point is worth 1.5 cents when redeemed for travel. That means that 1,000 points are worth up to $15.

Where does Southwest fly?

Southwest flies throughout the U.S. (including Hawaii, but not Alaska), Mexico, the Caribbean and most of Central America. Southwest does not partner with other airlines, so these aren't the points that will get you a European vacation.

How far can I fly with the 120,000-point bonus?

The points required for each flight will vary according to distance, time of day and other factors. When you book with points, you must also pay taxes, fees, and other government or airport-imposed charges of at least $5.60 per one-way trip.

How is the program improving in 2024?

Southwest recently modified the Rapid Rewards program to make it easier for members to achieve elite status. You can earn A-List status by flying one-way 20 times in a year (down from 25) and A-List Preferred status by flying one-way 40 in a year (down from 50).

Is the Rapid Rewards travel app any good?

The Southwest Mobile App won the second-best airline travel app ranking in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Manufacturer Website Evaluation Study.

Other cards to consider

The intro offer on the Capital One Venture X Business card is 150,000 bonus miles, worth between $1,500 and $2,775 when redeemed for travel. To qualify for the offer, you'll need to spend $30,000 on the card in the first three months. Although Southwest is not one of Capital One's travel partners, the Capital One Miles are very flexible. You may get reimbursed for travel on any airline for up to 90 days after you have traveled.

If you want a co-branded Southwest card but don’t feel comfortable paying $199 per year for an airline credit card for your business, consider the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card. This card will cost you just $99 per year, yet you’ll earn the same sign-up bonus and a similar rewards rate.

Rewards cards dos and don'ts

As with any rewards credit card, be sure to weigh these benefits against fees — a $199 annual fee in this case — and make sure you understand how to use the card effectively. That said, $199 should be mostly offset if you travel enough to use the anniversary bonus points.

Reward credit cards are great if you use them wisely. However, always pay them off in full each month to avoid interest, which can dwarf the gain. And don't spend any more than usual to hit any trigger. The last thing you want to do is chase credit card rewards when you're in debt.

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Fans of United Airlines should consider this limited-time offer from Chase. It is the best deal we've seen lately from the suite of four United cards, which have finally caught up to other lucrative sign-up bonuses that many competing cards now offer. We think you'll like the top-tier United Club℠ Infinite Card. It provides many high-end benefits, like lounge access. And Chase cards are known for being industry leaders in rental car insurance and travel insurance benefits.

New cardholders earn a bonus of up to 80,000 miles (worth about $900) in the United MileagePlus program after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. This offer more than offsets the $525 annual fee in the first year. You'll also get a United Club℠ membership, valued up to $650 per year from perks like free checked bags.

United Airlines: United Club℠ Infinite Card Overview

Travel benefits and fees

• Limited-time offer: Earn 80,000 bonus (worth about $900) miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Rewards rates:
  • Earn four miles per $1 spent on United® purchases.
  • Earn two miles per $1 spent on all other travel and dining.
  • Earn one mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.
• Other benefits:
  • Free first and second checked bags — a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) — and Premier Access® travel services.
  • 10% United Economy Saver Award discount within the continental U.S. and Canada.
  • Earn up to 10,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) per calendar year (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases).

• Limitations: This card is subject to the "Chase 05/24 rule." That means you will not qualify for this new Chase card if you have opened five new credit cards (from Chase or any other credit card company) in the past 24 months.
• Interest rates: 21.99% - 28.99% Variable APR
• Foreign transaction fee: None
• Annual fee: $525
• Member FDIC

What does United Club℠ membership get you?

Are you a lounge lizard? (Sorry, I couldn't resist.) Then, this card should spark some joy in your wallet; the card gives you annual lounge access at a discount. If you were to purchase United Club access, you'd shell out $650 each year, or $125 more than the annual $525 fee of the Infinite card.

United Club gives you access to 45 United Club Lounge locations,  and participating Star Alliance lounges worldwide. One United Club lounge in the Denver airport made our list of the best airport lounges for your money.

To access a United Club lounge, present your same-day boarding pass and your membership status. The Infinite card allows you, the cardholder, and up to two adult companions to enter the lounge. Traveling with children? Then, you can enter a lounge with one adult guest and dependent children under 21. 

How much are miles worth?

Setting the valuation of airline rewards miles can be tricky, as there are often many ways to redeem or convert them for flights, hotels and other services. In the case of United Mileage Plus Miles, we've used the average value as calculated by The Points Guy (1.35 cents per mile) and Bankrate (0.9 cents per mile), or 1.125 cents per mile.

Airline Partners

United is a member of the Star Alliance network of 26 airlines.

Hotel partners

You can earn miles by staying in some MileagePlus partner hotel network properties. Although you can convert hotel points to MileagePlus miles, you likely won't get a good value for your trade. A better route is to book through IHG or Hyatt hotels for a miles bonus or reward.

• World of Hyatt: Earn 500 award miles per stay at the following World of Hyatt brands: Park Hyatt®, Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt®, Andaz®, Hyatt Centric®, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt™, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Ziva™ and Hyatt Zilara™. Just provide your MileagePlus number when you check in.
• IHG Hotels: Earn two award miles per dollar spent at Six Senses® Hotels, Resorts & Spas, Regent® Hotels & Resorts, Intercontinental® Hotels & Resorts, Vignette™ Collection, Kimpton® Hotels & Restaurants, and other brands. If you frequently stay at IHG hotels, consider the IHG One Rewards Premier Card.

Other United credit cards

If the annual fee is too much for your budget, Chase has several other United co-branded credit cards that could be a better fit. 

United Gateway℠ Card. This no-annual-fee card's limited-time offer: earn 20,000 bonus miles (worth about $225) after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open. Plus, 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. No annual fee. The standard APR is 21.99% - 28.99% variable.

United℠ Explorer Card: The card's limited-time offer: Earn 50,000 bonus miles (worth about $563) after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open. The annual fee is $0 Intro for the first year, then $95. The interest rate is 21.99% - 28.99% variable APR.

United Quest℠ Card. Limited-time offer: Earn 60,000 bonus miles (worth about  $675) and 500 Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs) after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open. The annual fee is $250 and the interest rate is 21.99% - 28.99% variable APR.

For more about travel credit cards, check out our selection of the best travel rewards cards. See also Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2024: Travel Rewards Credit Cards.

Travel rewards cards dos and don'ts

As with any rewards credit card, be sure to weigh these benefits against fees — a $525 annual fee in this case — and make sure you understand how to use the card effectively. That said, $525 is a high annual fee but may be worth it for those who fly frequently on United or its partner airlines. That's especially true given that the complimentary United Club membership costs $650.

In addition, while reward credit cards are great if you use them wisely, always pay them off in full each month to avoid interest, which can dwarf the gain. And don't spend any more than usual to hit any trigger; otherwise, rewards cards can be a false economy as you’d be overspending. 

If this is your first foray into credit cards, or you just want a refresher, make sure you know how to choose a credit card. And make sure you are familiar with what counts as a good credit score. 

Read More

• American Airlines Card Launches $1,000 Limited-Time Offer
• Best Airline Credit Card Bonuses With a Free Ticket
• Earn Delta SkyMiles Worth up to $720
• Five Best U.S. Airport Lounges for Your Money

As an independent publication dedicated to helping you make the most of your money, the article above is our view of the best deals and is not the opinion of any entity mentioned such as a card issuer, hotel, airline etc. Similarly, the content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of those entities.