The best credit cards help you put money back in your wallet just by using them. You can get sign-up bonuses worth hundreds, cash back rewards programs, travel and experience credits and 0% APR periods that save you on interest. We’ve compiled a list of the best credit card offers in 2023 so you can start earning.
LendingTree is compensated by companies on this site and this compensation may impact how and where offers appears on this site (such as the order). LendingTree does not include all lenders, savings products, or loan options available in the marketplace.
LendingTree is compensated by companies on this site and this compensation may impact how and where offers appears on this site (such as the order). LendingTree does not include all lenders, savings products, or loan options available in the marketplace.
LendingTree is compensated by companies on this site and this compensation may impact how and where offers appears on this site (such as the order). LendingTree does not include all lenders, savings products, or loan options available in the marketplace.
LendingTree is compensated by companies on this site and this compensation may impact how and where offers appears on this site (such as the order). LendingTree does not include all lenders, savings products, or loan options available in the marketplace.
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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 1 – 8% cash back
The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is our pick for best credit card, as it offers high rates of cash back on three common spending categories: dining, groceries and entertainment. Whether you’re a foodie, a sports fan or a home chef, you’ll get a lot of value out of this card — all for a $0 annual fee.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 1 – 5% cash back
The Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers a rare combination: 5% cash back on rotating bonus categories and an ongoing 1% to 3% cash back on purchases in other categories. With an annual fee of $0, it’s the perfect starter rewards card if you’re willing to put in a little legwork to maximize your cash back.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards on gas: up to 5% cash back
You can earn up to $300 back on gas purchases in a year with the Citi Custom Cash® Card if you max out the $500 spending cap every month. So if you’re looking to earn as much as you can at the pump with a dedicated gas card, you’d be hard pressed to find a better option.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards on U.S. supermarkets: 1 – 6% cash back
Earn 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more), 1% Cash Back on other purchases. Terms apply. Cash back is redeemable for statement credits.
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express offers one of the best earning rates on U.S. supermarket purchases. If you max out the spending cap, you’ll earn $360 cash back on those purchases alone each year. It’s our pick for the best everyday credit card, as it offers high rates of cash back on common categories like gas, transit and select U.S. streaming subscriptions. Plus, you can easily redeem your cash back for statement credits.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Sign-up bonus: $750 value
If you want to earn a sign-up bonus that can cover the cost of your next flight (or two), take a look at the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. Jetsetters will love the travel protections, as well as the access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards® program — which allows you to redeem points with a host of airline and hotel partners.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Restaurant rewards: 3% cash back on dining
Restaurant regulars will have a hard time finding a card with better rewards than the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card. You’ll earn 3% cash back on dining and takeout, and you won’t have to cough up an annual fee — it’s just $0.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Low ongoing interest rate: 14.24% to 25.24% variable APR
If you need to carry a balance from month to month and are looking for the best credit card interest rates, we recommend the BECU Visa Credit Card. It offers one of the lowest APRs of any credit card — 14.24% to 25.24% variable APR. Plus, you’ll get introductory APRs for purchases and balance transfers, which can make paying off credit card debt more affordable.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Credit needed: Limited / Poor
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is our pick for the top secured credit card because it offers perks like cash back rewards and a valuable sign-up bonus — rare features for a card geared toward consumers with limited / poor credit. Plus, you can see if you’re preapproved without damaging your credit.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.No deposit required
As far as credit cards go, the AvantCard Credit Card is one of the easiest to get. It’s available to consumers with limited / poor / fair credit and allows you to check if you prequalify without damaging your credit with a hard pull. If you aren’t able to pay off your card every month, though, the high interest rates and late payment fees will make this card an expensive addition to your wallet.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 1x – 3x points
With the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card, you’ll earn valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards® points for purchases in common business spending categories like shipping, advertising and travel. Plus, you can pair your card with other Chase cards to pool points and redeem travel rewards.
And the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card’s sign-up bonus is nothing to sneeze at. You’ll earn 90,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $1,000 in cash back — or, if you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, $1,250 toward your next business trip.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 1x – 5x points
Frequent flyers will find a lot to love about The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. You’ll get airport lounge access, valuable travel and business credits, as well as the ability to earn a welcome offer that can offset the cost of your next business trip (or two). Plus, you won’t have to worry about foreign exchange fees when you use your card abroad — this card charges none.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
Busy business owners will appreciate the ease of using the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card. You’ll earn unlimited cash back rewards on every purchase, so you won’t have to track bonus categories or spending caps. Plus, you can earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 1 – 8% cash back
The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers up to 8% cash back in a variety of popular spending categories, making it our top pick for cash back credit cards. You won’t have to worry about an annual fee, either — it’s $0.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 1 – 5% cash back
The Chase Freedom Flex℠ is our favorite 5% cash back credit card — it offers new bonus categories every quarter, allowing savvy cardholders to maximize their rewards when they pair it with other Chase cards.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Travel rewards: 2x – 5x on travel
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card will take you far on your next trip. It offers a valuable sign-up bonus, flexible rewards, a reasonable annual fee and various travel protections and credits. Points are worth 25% more when you redeem them for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® — plus, you can also transfer your points to a number of travel partners.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 1x – 2x miles
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card offers rewards and perks that any frequent flyer will love. You’ll get free checked bags, baggage and car rental insurance and access to the Global Assist® Hotline for travel emergencies.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 3x – 14x points
If you’re looking for an elite card that’ll help you travel in style, the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express fits the bill. You’ll get Hilton Honors Diamond status (enrollment required), Hilton credits, a valuable welcome offer and high rewards rates on a variety of purchases. Note, however, that these perks and benefits come with a hefty annual fee of $550.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 1.25x – 5x miles
The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card allows you to earn miles on every purchase while paying $0 in annual fees. If you want a travel card that allows you to redeem miles for travel, but you don’t want to pay an annual fee in exchange for more valuable perks and benefits, you’d have a hard time finding a better option.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Lounge access: Access to more than 1,400 lounges
With fee credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck and access to over 1,400 airport lounges, The Platinum Card® from American Express can make your next trip more comfortable. And the benefits don’t stop at the airport — you’ll get more than $1,500 in travel and experience credits, too. Further, cardmembers can also enjoy elevated perks at high-end hotels, as well as higher elite status with Hilton and Marriott’s programs through their cards (enrollment required).
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.With the Capital One Platinum Credit Card, you’ll get free access to your credit score and pay $0 in annual fees while you build your credit. Plus, you won’t have to put down a security deposit to get the card.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 1.5 – 5% cash back
If you’re willing to pay a $39 annual fee in exchange for earning cash back on every purchase, consider the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card. The cash back rates are excellent, considering that the card is available to consumers with limited / fair credit. Plus, you can safely take this card abroad without worrying about paying foreign exchange fees, as there are none.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Long intro APR on purchases: 0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening , then a 17.74%, 24.24%, or 29.49% Variable APR applies.
The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card offers one of the longest intro APRs on the market — you’ll have almost two years to pay off a big purchase or balance transfer without accruing any interest.
Purchase APR: 0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening , then a 17.74%, 24.24%, or 29.49% Variable APR applies.
Balance transfer APR: 0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers, then a 17.74%, 24.24%, or 29.49% Variable APR applies.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Intro APR: 0% intro apr for 12 months on purchases, 0% intro apr for 21 months on balance transfers. Then, a 18.74% - 29.49% (variable) APR applies.
The Citi Simplicity® Card is a solid pick for consumers looking for a simple card with long intro APR periods on balance transfers and purchases. You won’t pay much in fees with this card — there are no late fees or penalty APRs — but you also won’t get cash back in the form of rewards or a sign-up bonus.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 1 – 5% cash back
Earn Earn 5% cash back at different places each quarter up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
If you’re a student beginning your credit journey, the Discover it® Student Cash Back offers the opportunity to build your credit while earning cash back on every purchase — for a $0 annual fee. Plus, if you need to make a large purchase (like a laptop or school books) and pay it off over time, you’ll get a 0% Intro APR for 6 months on purchases (then 17.74% - 26.74% Variable APR).
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 1 – 3% cash back
The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students is a solid choice if you’re a student on the lookout for cash back rewards you can tailor to your spending. You’ll earn cash back on all purchases, including up to 3% cash back in certain popular categories. Still, note that you’ll need to pay your bill on time if you want to avoid high interest rates — the card charges a penalty APR for late payments.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Build credit with no deposit or annual fee
The Capital One Platinum Credit Card reports your credit usage to the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) and automatically begins reviewing your account at six months to see if you qualify for a higher credit limit. Not every card for fair credit offers automatic reviews, so this is an especially helpful feature if you want to build your credit.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards: 1 – 2% cash back
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card offers a slew of perks and features for people who want to build credit. You can check your FICO Score for free. In addition, Discover starts conducting monthly account reviews to determine if you’re eligible for an upgrade to an unsecured card after just seven months. In the meantime, you’ll earn cash back rewards and pay $0 in annual fees.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Long intro APR on balance transfers: 0% Intro APR for 18 months. After, a 17.24% - 28.24% Variable APR applies.
The Discover it® Balance Transfer has an intro APR that gives you more than a year to pay off your balance transfer. Plus, it has a rewards program, which makes the card worth having in your wallet for years to come.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Intro APR on balance transfers: 0% intro APR for 21 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers. After, a 17.74%, 24.24%, or 29.49% Variable APR applies.
The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a card that’ll give you the most time possible to pay off your balance transfer. You’ll have almost two years to pay off your balance, but you won’t have to pay anything in annual fees — the card charges $0.
Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Rewards Rate | Annual Fee | Recommended Credit Credit scores ranges may vary. Your individual chance at approval may vary due to factors such as creditors using a particular variation at their discretion | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Credit One Bank Wander® Card*
Review Coming Soon
|
Best credit card, best credit card for restaurants, best cash back
|
N/A | N/A | N/A | Review Coming Soon |
Chase Freedom Flex℠*
|
Best rewards credit card, 5% cash back credit card
|
1% - 5% cash back
| $0 | Good / Excellent | |
Citi Custom Cash® Card
on Citibank's secure site Rates & Fees |
Best credit card for gas
|
1% - 5% cash back
| $0 | Good / Excellent |
on Citibank's secure site Rates & Fees |
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
|
Best credit card for groceries
|
1% - 6% cash back
| $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. | Good / Excellent | |
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
on Chase's secure site |
Best credit card sign-up bonus, best travel credit card
|
1X - 5X points
| $95 | Excellent |
on Chase's secure site |
Credit One Bank Wander® Card*
Review Coming Soon
|
Best low-interest credit card
|
N/A | N/A | N/A | Review Coming Soon |
Discover it® Secured Credit Card*
|
Best credit card for bad credit/best secured credit card
|
1% - 2% cash back
| $0 | Limited / Poor | |
AvantCard Credit Card
on Avant's secure site |
Easiest unsecured credit card to get
|
N/A | $59 | Limited / Poor / Fair |
on Avant's secure site |
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
on Chase's secure site |
Best business credit card
|
1x - 3x points
| $95 | Excellent |
on Chase's secure site |
Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card*
Review Coming Soon
|
4.1
Secured business credit card
|
1.5% cash back
Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
| $0 | See website for details* | Review Coming Soon |
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
|
Best business travel credit card
|
1X - 5X points
| $695 | Good / Excellent | |
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
on Chase's secure site |
Best cash back business credit card
|
1.5% cash back
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
| $0 | Good / Excellent |
on Chase's secure site |
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card*
|
Best airline credit card
|
1X - 2X miles
| $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150. | Good / Excellent | |
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express*
|
Best hotel credit card
|
3X - 14X points
| $550 | Good / Excellent | |
Credit One Bank Wander® Card*
Review Coming Soon
|
Best no-annual-fee travel credit card
|
N/A | N/A | N/A | Review Coming Soon |
The Platinum Card® from American Express
|
Best credit card for lounge access
|
5X points
| $695 | Good / Excellent | |
Credit One Bank Wander® Card*
Review Coming Soon
|
Best credit card for fair credit, best credit card to build credit
|
N/A | N/A | N/A | Review Coming Soon |
Wells Fargo Reflect® Card*
|
Best credit card with a 0% APR
|
N/A | $0 | Good / Excellent | |
Discover it® Student Cash Back*
|
Best credit card for students
|
1% - 5% cash back
| $0 | Limited / Fair | |
Discover it® Balance Transfer*
|
Best credit card for balance transfer
|
1% - 5% cash back
| $0 | Good / Excellent |
When comparing credit cards, consider which benefits and features matter most to you and which drawbacks — like fees and high interest rates — you can live with.
Rewards: Most people can benefit from credit cards that earn rewards in the form of cash back or points. When comparing credit cards, choose a card that offers rewards for spending money on categories that make up a large chunk of your monthly budget. If you’re choosing a card for building credit like a secured or student credit card, having a rewards rate at all is a major plus.
Sign-up bonuses: Many credit cards offer bonuses in the form of cash or points in order to get more people to apply for the card. You’ll likely have to spend a specified amount of money within the first three to six months in order to earn the sign-up bonus.
Travel insurance/protection: Travel cards often offer benefits that reimburse you for your trouble when something goes wrong on your trip. Common benefits include trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance and emergency assistance services.
Concierge service: Concierge services can help you make arrangements for travel, restaurants, entertainment and more.
$0 fraud liability: If your card is stolen and used to purchase something, you won’t be held liable for the charge when your card has this feature.
Purchase protection: Cards with purchase protection will reimburse you if a purchase you made with your card is damaged or stolen. This protection is typically limited to a certain period of time and up to a particular amount.
You can check the card issuer’s website or the card’s terms and conditions to see if a particular card offers any of these benefits.
Annual fee: This is the fee you pay every year for having the card. Some cards don’t have an annual fee, but the ones that do typically charge between $95 and $695. In order to get some of the best benefits listed above, you might have to pay an annual fee.
High APRs: Annual percent rates (APRs) are what cards charge you when you don’t pay your entire credit card balance every month — think of them as the cost of borrowing money. Interest rates may not be an important factor for you if you pay off your card every month. However, if you plan to carry a balance, you should choose a card with low interest rates.
Foreign transaction fee: Some credit cards charge a fee for using your card outside of the U.S. Cards that have foreign transaction fees typically charge 3% to 5% of each transaction.
Balance transfer fee: This is the fee for transferring a balance onto a new card — it’s typically 3% to 5% of the balance, with a minimum of $5 to $10.
Cash advance fee: This is the fee for using your credit card to get cash, typically 5% of each cash advance. You also may be subject to a cash advance APR, which is higher than regular interest rates.
Authorized user fee: When you add authorized users to your account, they’ll be able to make charges. Some cards allow you to add your first few authorized users for free, then charge a fee per authorized user after you pass that number.
Before you apply for a card, you can check the terms and conditions on the issuer’s website. You should also make sure that your credit score makes you likely to qualify for the card you’re interested in.
The best card for you will give you more value in benefits and features than it costs you in fees and interest. Common credit card benefits include rewards on everyday purchases, travel insurance/protection, hotel or entertainment credits and concierge service. Many consumers avoid cards with annual fees, but several of our favorite cards make up for charging an annual fee by offering more value in rewards and benefits.
If you’re new to credit or rebuilding your credit, you might not qualify for some of the best rewards credit cards. Look for cards with benefits like low interest rates, availability to people with bad credit and regular account reviews to increase your credit limit.
Credit cards work as a convenient payment method and can also help build your credit history if you make your payments on time and don’t carry too large of a balance.
The best credit cards also give you rewards for making purchases and offer a variety of other perks like travel and purchase protections. Different types of credit cards vary in the kinds of rewards and perks they offer.
Credit card issuers and credit card networks work together to process credit card payments within seconds.
Visa and Mastercard are the two most popular credit card networks. Both are accepted almost everywhere that takes credit cards, and their benefits are so similar that most people won’t notice a difference between having one card or another. That said, Visa does offer slightly better benefits.
To get a credit card, follow these steps:
The number of credit cards you should have will depend on your lifestyle and financial goals. You may use one credit card for cash back on your weekly grocery trips and another to finance a large purchase interest-free for an extended period of time. Having multiple cards will increase the amount of credit you have available, which can have a positive impact on your credit score.
Some people find it difficult to juggle several cards with different due dates and interest rates. If you struggle with credit card debt or managing payments, keep the number of credit cards in your wallet to a minimum.
Generally, you’ll have a decision within a few minutes of applying for a new credit card. If you are approved, you’ll likely receive the card within seven to 10 business days.
This time frame varies by the card issuer and by credit card. To illustrate how different each bank is, here are the timelines provided by a few of the most popular credit card issuers:
There are some credit card company rules to keep in mind:
→ Wells Fargo: If you’ve opened a Wells Fargo credit card in the past six months, you won’t qualify for another card.
→ Chase: Chase has an unwritten rule referred to as the Chase 5/24 rule. If you’ve been approved for five or more personal credit cards over the past 24 months, Chase will deny your application for a new credit card.
Cash back credit cards
Cash back credit cards let you earn back a percentage of each purchase you make, effectively lowering the cost of everything you buy using the card. Cash back rewards are usually redeemed via statement credits, which are used to pay your balance. They can also often be redeemed for direct deposits, gift cards and more.
Travel credit cards
Travel credit cards earn points or miles instead of cash back. Points and miles are typically worth around 1 to 2 cents each and can be redeemed for flights or hotel stays. Some cards are flexible and allow you to earn rewards on any travel purchase. Others only give you points on purchases from a partner airline or hotel chain.
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card are our top picks for best airline credit cards. They offer generous earning rates on travel purchases, travel protections and valuable welcome offers.
The Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express is our pick for best hotel credit card. It has a high earning rate on travel, numerous travel credits, an annual free night reward and complimentary Hilton Diamond status (enrollment required).
Credit cards for bad credit
There are two kinds of cards for people with bad credit: subprime credit cards with high interest rates and secured credit cards. To steer clear of high-interest credit card debt, avoid subprime cards and apply for a secured credit card instead. You’ll need to put down a security deposit, but you’ll typically get your deposit back when you upgrade your card or pay it off and close your account.
Credit cards for fair credit
The best credit cards for people with fair credit offer several perks, including no annual fee, rewards programs, lower interest rates and introductory APRs that allow you to pay off a big purchase. While it’s reasonable to expect a card for good credit to have all of these perks, cards designed for fair credit typically offer one or two. You’ll need to decide which features are most important to you while you build your credit in order to qualify for cards with more valuable perks.
0% APR credit cards
The best credit cards for making and paying off a large purchase are cards that offer a long introductory 0% APR. You’ll have breathing room — typically between a year and 18 months — to pay off your purchase over time. Look for cards with sign-up bonuses and rewards programs that you can use to offset the cost of your purchase.
Student credit cards
If you’re a student, a student credit card can help you build credit while earning rewards. These cards typically earn cash back rewards, offer lower credit limits and are available to people with a limited credit history.
Credit cards to build credit
The best cards for building credit offer free access to your credit score and report to the credit bureaus monthly. Look for cards that don’t charge annual or late fees in order to keep costs down. Some of our top credit-building card picks offer sign-up bonuses and rewards programs, though these will be less valuable than those of a typical rewards credit card.
Balance transfer credit cards
Balance transfer credit cards allow you to save money by transferring your high-interest credit card debt to a card with a lower APR. The best balance transfer cards offer a 0% intro APR for a year or longer.
While it is possible to find a card with no balance transfer fees, those cards tend to offer shorter interest-free periods than ones that charge 3% to 5% of each transferred balance.
Low-interest credit cards
If you aren’t able to pay off your card in full every month, skip the rewards and travel cards and choose a low interest credit card instead. It’s simple math: The interest rates that credit card companies charge will always be higher than rewards rates. Using a low-interest card is the best way to save money if you regularly carry a balance.
Business credit cards
Knowing how to use a business credit card can help keep you out of the red. Look for cards with features that match your current business needs. For instance, look for a card with a 0% APR period if you want to finance a large purchase. Or, look for cards with good rewards programs to earn points or cash back on your most common business purchases.
Our pick for the easiest credit card to get is the Discover it® Secured Credit Card. It’s designed for people with limited / poor credit and you can find out if you’re preapproved before you apply.
Credit cards charge customers interest when they carry a balance from one statement period to another. Interest charges are based on the average daily balance of your credit card and the annual percentage rate (APR), associated with your account.
A credit score is a number that indicates your creditworthiness, the likelihood that you’ll pay back money you borrow. Credit-scoring companies like FICO and VantageScore calculate your credit score based on a variety of factors, including your payment history, how much you owe and how long you’ve had credit. Your credit score plays an important role in determining whether you’ll get approved for a credit card, mortgage or even a lease on an apartment.
A credit report is a detailed history of your borrowing activity. It lists any accounts you have (as well as their histories), bankruptcies or accounts in collections and hard inquiries from lenders or credit card companies when you apply for a new card. Lenders use your credit report and your credit score to decide whether to approve you for a loan or credit card.
It can take anywhere from a few seconds to a few days to get approved for a card. Some cards offer instant credit card numbers as soon as you’re approved, but most cards arrive via mail a few days to a couple of weeks later.
Our pick for the best credit card for travel is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. It’s ideal if you want to earn rewards to help offset the cost of future travel. You’ll enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
Several credit cards offer valuable sign-up bonuses worth hundreds of dollars when redeemed. Our pick for the best credit card sign-up bonus is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. You’ll only pay a $95 annual fee, and you can get up to $1,050 in Chase Travel℠ value. Earn 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. That's worth $750 when redeemed through Chase Travel. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel purchases within your first year.
Some cards may be difficult to get even if you have excellent credit. The Centurion® Card from American Express — also known as the “Black Card” — and the J.P. Morgan Reserve Card are reserved for big spenders, typically with millions of dollars in assets.
Our top pick for people with excellent credit is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. You’ll earn valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards® points on travel and dining purchases, and you can redeem your points for travel.
In selecting the best credit cards, we evaluated a variety of factors, including:
Several cards on this list don’t charge an annual fee. Cards on the list that do charge annual fees offer enough value through rewards and benefits to make them worth the fee in certain situations.
To see rates & fees for American Express cards mentioned on this page, visit the links provided below:
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
The information related to the Discover it® Balance Transfer, BECU Visa Credit Card, Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card, Chase Freedom Flex℠, Discover it® Secured Credit Card, Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express, Wells Fargo Reflect® Card, Discover it® Student Cash Back, Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students, Credit One Bank Wander® Card, Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card, Centurion® Card from American Express and J.P. Morgan Reserve Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
The content above is not provided by any issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of LendingTree alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any issuer. The offers and/or promotions mentioned above may have changed, expired, or are no longer available. Check the issuer's website for more details.
Expertise: Credit cards
Education: New York University
Lauren Nicholson is a staff writer at LendingTree, where she focuses on credit cards.
Before joining LendingTree, she worked in the education sector as a college counselor and marketing associate. Lauren is passionate about using clear, concise language to empower readers in times of transition, whether they’re making decisions about their finances or their education.
Lauren has a master’s degree in English from New York University.
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