The cards listed here are the best of the bunch – but only in an ideal world. There are some essential rules when applying for and using credit cards, and they could mean there are better options for your needs
you could slash your interest rate and save money over the life of the loan. If you're not in debt but need financing for an upcoming purchase, a HELOC could be a more cost-effective alternative than credit cards or
Credit Check: Top 5 Credit Cards for Small BusinessesHere are five cards that offer great perks, including low-interest rates, great travel expense features, and bonus points.The Cheat Sheet
which can help you prioritize which cards to pay down first. Low-interest debt consolidation loans and 0% interest balance transfer credit cards can also help you reduce your debt rate while cutting borrowing costs.If
particularly flexible. Once you sign up, you typically can't use your credit cards anymore, and you'll need to stick to the payment plan every month to stay in good standing. If you miss payments or drop out of the plan early, your creditors could reinstate your original interest rates,...
filing for bankruptcy can provide a fresh start when your debt becomes truly unmanageable. Chapter 7 bankruptcy can eliminate most unsecured debts including credit cards, while Chapter 13 creates a court-supervised repayment plan. Both options have significant long-term effects on your credit, but...
– Ryan Flanigan, Bankrate credit cards writerAlternatives: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a low-cost travel card with a bit more flexibility. Cardholders can redeem rewards for stays at nearly any hotel property and get a credit of up to $120 for their Global Entry or TSA...
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Debt consolidation C Taking out a loan to pay off multiple credit cards can simplify your payments and potentially lower your interest rate. This option works best if you have a good credit score and can qualify for a low-rate loan.Balance transfer credit card C If your credit is strong...
credit card bills feel like they're growing faster than you can keep up with right now, you're not imagining things. With credit card rates averaging nearly 22% currently and much higher rates for those with fair or poor credit the cost of carrying a balance on your credit cards can...