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Credit Cards 101

Go beyond credit card basics and learn how to use your credit card responsibly. From interest to rewards, we'll teach you everything you need to know about using credit cards.

Move past the basics and become an expert

A woman sits at a table and calculates the value of her credit card rewards on her laptop.
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Frequently Asked Questions
  • What is the best way to use a credit card?

    The best way to use a credit card is to maximize its value while avoiding interest payments. In most cases, this means using credit cards that offer the most rewards and perks for your spending while making sure you pay off your balance each month to eliminate interest charges.

  • Should you have more than one credit card?

    Yes, if you want to keep your credit card usage as simple as possible. However, if you're comfortable using multiple cards, you can sharpen your credit-card rewards strategy and decrease your utilization ratio.

  • Are travel cards worth the annual fee?

    Yes, if you know how to maximize your rewards, redeem them, and take advantage of the card's perks. In most cases, the perks and rewards-earning potential of the best travel rewards cards far exceed the annual fee you pay to use the card.

  • Can credit cards build credit?

    Yes, but you have to be smart about how you use your card. Credit scores emphasize your payment history and your credit utilization. So, when you open a new credit card, you should pay off your all purchases and fees each month by your due date to ensure you don't carry a balance and that you don't pay late.

  • Are there purchases you shouldn't make with credit cards?

    Yes, there are several purchases you should make with your credit card, including purchases that you can't afford, put you over your credit limit, or that could shift your utilization from below 30% to above 30%.

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