Credit Cards FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Credit Cards

    Do I have to pay an annual fee?

    Some credit cards charge an annual fee, or membership fee, for the privilege of using or carrying the card. This fee applies regardless of whether or not you use the card at all. Fees range from around $25 a year to over $100. Rewards cards typically charge an annual fee. There are many credit cards available that do not charge an annual fee. If you have a high credit score, you are more likely to qualify for a credit card that does not charge an annual fee.

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Top Credit Cards

Capital One® Venture<sup><small>SM</small></sup> Rewards Credit Card

Bottom line: Travel rewards card winner with a value of $2 for every $100 spent, no blackout dates or restrictions
Citi Simplicity® Card

Bottom line: Citi's 18-month 0% intro purchase and balance transfer APR period is the longest of any card, no late fees
Capital One® Cash Rewards - $100 Cash Back Bonus

Bottom line: Effective 1.5% cash back on all purchases; 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers; $100 bonus opportunity
Chase Freedom® Visa - $100 Bonus Cash Back + 0% Intro APR

Bottom line: Excellent combination of cash back rewards and 0% intro APR; $100 bonus opportunity
Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card

Bottom line: Citi's 18-month 0% intro purchase and balance transfer APR period is the longest of any card; post-intro APR is also low
United MileagePlus® Explorer Card

Bottom line: Good choice for United flyers who want to earn free flights with great perks; flight redemption value of $1.94
Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards® Plus Card from Chase

Bottom line: Excellent choice for frequent Southwest fliers; strong travel rewards analysis contender; free flight with first purchase
Escape by Discover® Card

Bottom line: Top travel rewards contender; 0% intro APR on balance transfers and purchases; earn up to 25,000 bonus miles in 25 months
Blue Cash Everyday<sup><small>SM</small></sup> Card from American Express

Bottom line: Up to 3% cash back on everyday spending; $100 cash back bonus; unlimited cash back; 0% intro APR
Citi® Platinum Select® Visa®

Bottom line: Citi's 18-month 0% intro purchase and balance transfer APR period is the longest of any card; post-intro APR is also low
Discover® More Card

Bottom line: 15-month 0% intro APR on purchases & balance transfers, up to 5% cash back.

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