Citi® Simplicity Card Review – 0% for 21 Months

Written by

The Citi Simplicity® Card is, well, simple. As the name suggests, the card does one thing, and it does it really well. It offers a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 21 months.

With this card there is no annual fee and there are no late fees or over the limit fees. This is a basic credit card with no rewards program but an excellent 0% offer. Its 0% introductory rate on balance transfers and purchases lasts for 21 months is the longest available offer we’ve been able to find anywhere.

Compare Your Options

    • Citi Simplicity Card: 0% on balance transfers for 21 months with a balance transfer fee of 3% or $5, whichever is less;
    • Discover it® Cashback Match™ with No Annual Fee: 0% for 18 months + double cash back the first year
    • Barclaycard Ring™ MasterCard®: 0% intro APR for 15 months + NO balance transfer fee
    • Chase Slate: 0% for 15 months with no balance transfer fee for transfers initiated in the first 60 days of account openining + no annual fee + free access to your monthly FICO score

Citi Simplicity® Card Review

Here are the card details in a nutshell:

  • 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers and Purchases for 21 months. After that, the variable APR will be 13.49% – 23.49% based on your creditworthiness.
  • There is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
  • No late fees – Ever
  • No penalty rate – Ever
  • No annual fee – Ever
  • Save time when you call with fast, personal help, 24 hours a day.

0% Offer

The Citi Simplicity card comes with a dual 0% offer on balance transfers for 21 months and on purchases for 21 months. A balance transfer fee of 3% (minimum $5) will apply to all amounts transferred to the card. There are no fees associated with the 0% on purchases offer.

Your variable APR will be 13.49% – 23.49% based on your creditworthiness. This rate may change based on the prime rate.

Citi provides the following instructions on using the balance transfer offer:

1. After receiving your card, you may call the customer service number on the back of your card to transfer balances. However, if you are presented with the option to transfer a balance with your application, it will take at least 14 days after your account is opened to process balance transfer payments. During this time you may cancel or modify your balance transfer request by calling the number on the back of your card.

2. You may transfer any amount, but the total amount of your balance transfers and balance transfer fees must be less than your available credit limit. Be sure you do not transfer any disputed purchase or other charge amount, as you may lose your dispute rights. You cannot transfer balances from other accounts issued by Citibank, N.A. or its affiliates.

3. Continue to make payments on your other accounts until you have confirmed this balance transfer has been received. Once approved, we pay the amount of the balance transfer directly to that issuer. The available credit limit for your new card will be reduced by the total amount of the transfers, including fees, we approve.

Looking for a balance transfer card with a great rewards program?  The Discover it® – 18 Month Balance Transfer offers a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months and also includes double cash back for the first year!  That means 2% cash back on everyday purchases and 10% cash back on select categories every quarter.  No annual fee to speak of.

Fees

One very nice feature with this card is its fee structure. If charges no annual fee. Further, it doesn’t charge late fees or penalty rates. That’s not to suggest that you should pay your credit card bill late. Late payments hurt your credit score, and you’ll of course pay interest on the outstanding balance.

Additional Benefits

This card offers a variety of additional benefits for being a card member. Here is a list of some of the these benefits:

  • Citi Price Rewind: Register an item you purchased with your card and Citi will track prices at hundreds of online merchants for 60 days from your purchase date. If Citi finds a lower price you can request a refund of the price difference, up to $300 per item and up to $1,200 per calendar year.
  • Extended Warranty: Add up to a year on your warranty of five years or less when you make purchases with your Citi card. You may be covered for up to $10,000 per calendar year.
  • Choose your Payment Due Date: You can choose to pay your bill on any available due date in the beginning, middle or end of the month.
  • Automatic Account Alerts: Once you’ve set up alerts, Citi will remind you about your balance levels, payments due, or when you go over your credit limit, by email or directly on your mobile phone.
  • 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers and Purchases for 21 months. After that, the variable APR will be 13.49% – 23.49% based on your creditworthiness.
  • There is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
  • No late fees – Ever
  • No penalty rate – Ever
  • No annual fee – Ever
  • Save time when you call with fast, personal help, 24 hours a day.
  • Regular Purchase APR:13.49 – 23.49% (Variable)
  • Penalty APR: N/A
  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Late Payment Fee: N/A
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of each purchase transaction in US dollars.
  • Ideal for those looking for a 0% balance transfer offer
  • Also perfect for those wanting 0% on purchases for an extended period
  • Well suited for those wanting a rewards card with no annual fee
  • Requires excellent credit

Citi Diamond Preferred Card Review

Written by

The Citi Diamond Preferred card combines three key features. It offers one of the longest 0% offers on purchases and balance transfers. To this it combines points rewards on purchases and no annual fee.

This card from Citi is unique in two ways. First, it offers the longest available 0% offer on balance transfers and purchases. Second, unlike many top balance transfer cards, it offers a points rewards program.  In this review we’ll look at its key features, including the 0% offer. We’ll also cover fees and rates, as well as other Citi perks that come with the card.

Compare Your Options

  • Citi Diamond Preferred card: 0% on balance transfers for 21 months with a balance transfer fee of 3% or $5, whichever is less
  • Discover it® Cashback Match™ with No Annual Fee: 0% for 18 months + double cash back the first year
  • Chase Slate: 0% for 15 months with no balance transfer fee for transfers initiated in the first 60 days of account openining + no annual fee + free access to your monthly FICO score

Review

Snapshot

Here are the key features of the Citi Diamond Preferred credit card:

  • Get 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers and Purchases for 21 months. After that, the APR will be 12.49% – 22.49% based upon your creditworthiness.*
  • There is a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer.
  • Citi Easy Deals(SM) Get what you want for less. Earn Citi Easy Deals Points for the purchases you make with your card. Redeem your points for great online deals on name-brand merchandise, gift cards and even local deals.
  • Let our 24/7 concierge service help book your hotel rooms, flights and more.
  • $0 liability on unauthorized purchases and Citi® Identity Theft Solutions.
  • No annual fee*
  • More details: Citi Diamond Preferred credit card

0% Introductory Rate

One of the best features of the Citi Diamond Preferred credit card is its 0% rate. On balance transfers the card offers 0% for 18 months and 0% for 18 months on purchases. The regular APR is between 12.49% – 22.49%, based on your creditworthiness.

Additional Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card Details

This card offers a variety of additional benefits for being a card member. Here is a list of some of the additional benefits the card offers:

  • Concierge Service: The Diamond Preferred Concierge Service can take care of just about everything, from booking flights and hotel rooms to purchasing concert tickets or making restaurant reservations. This service is also available 24/7 anywhere in the world.
  • Citi® Easy DealsSM: Enjoy members only savings with Citi Easy Deals, on a benefit that gives you access to great online deals on brands like Gap, CVS and Footlocker.
  • $0 Liability on Unauthorized Charges: Shop anywhere and never lose a penny on unauthorized charges. With $0 Liability you won’t pay for any unauthorized charges made on your Citi credit card.
  • Travel & Emergency Assistance: You’re protected when you’re traveling in the U.S. and abroad. Travel & Emergency Assistance include medical and legal referrals, lost luggage assistance, emergency transportation, and translation services. Also included in this service are MasterTrip Travel Assistance, Travel Services Medical Assistance and MasterLegal Referral Service.
  • Worldwide Travel Accident Insurance: Worldwide Travel Accident Insurance is a type of coverage that you hope to never need, but it may offer some financial help to you or your loved ones if a tragic accident does occur, up to $250,000 in compensation.
  • Citi with Apple Pay: With a simple touch you can pay in-app or at over 200,000 stores with the iPhone® 6, or in-app with the iPad Air™ 2 and iPad mini™ 3. Plus, you’ll still enjoy all of the security and benefits that come with your Citi card when you use Apple Pay to check out.

Best Airline Miles Credit Cards of 2017

Written by

The best airline miles credit cards enable you to earn frequent flyer miles with every purchase. And many of the credit card offers listed below come with bonus points that allow you to earn a free plane ticket very quickly. The offers are organized into two categories.

First, we list those all-purpose travel cards that offer excellent rewards. With these cards, you can use points or miles on any airline. Then will list airline specific cards. These are ideal if you frequently fly on the same airline.

All-Purpose Travel Reward Cards

Editor’s Pick: The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card earns top honors for an all-purpose travel rewards card. Its 2x points for every $1 spent and $50,000 bonus points for new cardmembers lead the pack in the travel category.
Credit Card Travel Rewards Rate Sign-Up Bonus Annual Fee
Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card 2 miles per $1 spent 40,000 Miles* $0 intro for the first year, $59 after that
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card Up to 2 points per $1 spent 50,000 Points** $0 the first year, then $95
Barclaycard Arrival Plus™ World Elite MasterCard® 2X miles on all purchases 40,000 Miles*** $89 (waived the first year)
BankAmericard Travel Rewards® Credit Card Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases. 20,000 Points***** $0

*Enjoy a one-time bonus of 40,000 miles once you spend $3,000 on purchases within the first 3 months, equal to $400 in travel.

**Earn 50,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $625 in travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

***Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 90 days; that’s enough to redeem for a $400 travel statement credit.

*****20,000 online bonus points if you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days –  that can be a $200 statement credit toward travel purchases

Airline Miles Cards

Editor’s Pick: My favorite airline card is the Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card. It gets my vote for two reasons. It offers an excellent signup bonus of 50,000 miles. And it’s a great airline to fly.

Gold Delta SkyMiles® Credit Card from American Express

Credit Card Travel Rewards Sign-Up Bonus Annual Fee
Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card 2 Points Per $1 on Travel Purchases 50,000 Miles* $99
Citi®/ AAdvantage® Platinum Select® MasterCard® 2 Miles per dollar on American Airlines, 1 Mile on other purchases 30,000 Miles** $95, waived for first 12 Months
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ MasterCard® 2 Miles per dollar on American Airlines, 1 Mile on other purchases 50,000 Miles*** $450
Gold Delta SkyMiles® Credit Card from American Express Earn 2 Miles per dollar spent on purchases made directly with Delta. Earn 1 mile for every dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. 30,000 Miles**** $0 intro for the first year, then $95
United MileagePlus Explorer Card Double Miles Earned on United Ticket Purchases 30,000 Miles***** $0 intro for the first year, then $95

*Earn 50,000 points after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

**Earn 30,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after making $1,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

***Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening

****Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you make $1,000 in purchases on your new Card within your first 3 months.

*****Start with 30,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

2017 Credit Card Signup Bonuses

Written by

Credit card companies roll out the red carpet to get new card members. From cash to points to miles, signup bonuses abound from top card issuers. It’s for that reason that I complied this exhaustive list of credit card signup bonuses, deals, and promotions for 2017.

Table of Contents

The list starts with the highest bonuses, and then is organized by type of bonus (cash, points, or miles) and by type of card (business and student cards).

As you review this list keep a few things in mind:

  • The signup bonus, while certainly a nice perk, is only one factor to consider when comparing the cards;
  • The higher the signup bonus, the higher then spending requirement you’ll need to meet to get it;
  • The higher the signup bonus, the higher the annual fee; and
  • The value of points or miles can vary depending on how you use them.

With that, let’s get to the list:

Best Signup Bonuses

Here are the cards that offer some of the highest bonuses currently available:

Credit Card Signup Bonus Spend Requirement Annual Fee
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card 50,000 Points $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Intro $0 the first year, then $95
Value: $625 in travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Ink Plus Business Credit Card  60,000 Points $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. $95
Value: $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

Cash Signup Bonuses

As the saying goes, cash is king. The following credit cards pay a cash bonus when you spend a set amount within a certain period of time. Keep in mind that many of the points and miles offers can be converted to cash or statement credits.

Credit Card Signup Bonus Spend Requirement Annual Fee
Chase Freedom $150 $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. $0
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express $150 $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. $95 ($75 if application is received by 8/3/16)
Capital One® Quicksilver® Cash Rewards Credit Card $150  $500 on purchases within the first 3 months  $0
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express $100 $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. $0
BankAmericard Cash Rewards™ Credit Card $100 $500 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. $0
Barclaycard CashForward™ World MasterCard® $200 $1,000 on purchases within the first 90 days after account opening. $0

Miles Signup Bonuses

Here you’ll find the top miles bonuses, followed by the top points deals in the next section. There really is, however, no practical difference between points and miles.

Airlines typically call their rewards “miles,” although there are exceptions. British Airways calls them “Avios.” Go figure. Southwest Airlines calls them points, but we know Southwest just likes to be different (remember how they board planes). Most hotel cards and non-branded travel cards call rewards points, but again, their are exceptions. The Capital One Venture Rewards card calls its rewards “miles.”

So why did I divide them between miles and points? Simplicity. With that said, here are the Miles promotions:

Credit Card Signup Bonus Spend Requirement Annual Fee
Citi®/ AAdvantage® Platinum Select® MasterCard® 30,000 Miles $1,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. $95, waived for first 12 Months
Value: Round-tip award travel starts at 25,000 miles (Source: AAdvantage Mileage Chart)
United MileagePlus Explorer Card 30,000 Miles  $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. $0 intro for the first year, then $95
Value: Round-trip award travel starts at 20,000 miles (Source: United Mileage Chart)
Gold Delta SkyMiles® Credit Card from American Express 30,000 Miles $1,000 in purchases on your new Card within your first 3 months. (limited time offer) $0 for the first year, then $95
Value: Round-trip award travel starts at 20,000 miles (Source: Delta Mileage Chart)
British Airways Visa Signature card 50,000 Avios $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening. $95
Value: Round-trip award travel starts at 9,000 Avios (Source: Avios Award Map) Note: This will go up to 15,000 Avios starting Feb. 2, 2016 (Source: British Airways)
Barclaycard Arrival Plus™ World Elite MasterCard® 40,000 Miles $3,000 on purchases in the first 90 days. $89 (waived the first year)
Value: $400 travel statement credit

Points Signup Bonuses

Here are the points promotions. As with miles, it’s not enough to simply compare these bonuses in absolute terms. You need to understand the value of the points when you redeem them. Often, the value depends on how you redeem the points.

Credit Card Signup Bonus Spend Requirement Annual Fee
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card 50,000 Points $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Intro $0 the first year, then $95
Value: $625 in travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Value: $500 in gift cards, $625 for airfare, or other great rewards.
Marriott Rewards Premier Credit Card 80,000 Points $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening $85
Value: Free night stays start at 7,500 points for Category 1 properties (Source: Marriott Rewards Chart)
IHG Rewards Club Select Credit Card 60,000 Points $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening. $0 for first year, then $49 annually
Value: Free night stays start at 10,000 points (Source: IHG Reward Chart)
Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card 50,000 Points $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open $99
Value: Varies based on flight.
Citi® Hilton HHonors™ Visa Signature® Card 40,000 Points $1,000 in purchases within the first 4 months of account opening. $0
Value: Free night stats start at 5,000 points (Source: Hilton)
Citi® Hilton HHonors™ Reserve® Card 75,000 Points $2,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. $0
Value: Free night stats start at 5,000 points (Source: Hilton)
Citi Prestige® Card 40,000 Points $4,000 in purchases made with your card in the first 3 months the account is open. $450
Value: Points are redeemable for an $800 flight on American Airlines or US Airways®, a $665 flight on any other airline or $500 in gift cards.
Citi ThankYou® Preferred Card-Earn 20,000 Bonus Points 20,000 Points $1,500 in card purchases within 3 months of account opening. $0
Value: $200 in gift cards.
Starwood Preferred Guest® Credit Card from American Express 25,000 Points $3,000 in purchases within the first 3 months. $0 intro annual fee for first year, then $95
Value: Free night stats start at 3,000 Starpoints (Source: Starwood)
Premier Rewards Gold Card from American Express 25,000 Points $2,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Card Membership. Intro $0 for first year, then $195
Value: Up to $250 depending on method of redemption
The Platinum Card® from American Express 40,000 Points $3,000 in purchases in your first 3 months. $450
Value: Up to $400 depending on method of redemption
The Amex Everyday® Credit Card from American Express 10,000 Points $1,000 in purchases within the first 3 months. $0
Value: Up to $100 depending on method of redemption
U.S. Bank FlexPerks® Travel Rewards Visa Signature® card 20,000 Points $3,500 in Net Purchases (purchases minus credits and returns) on your Card within the first four months of account opening. $0 intro* for the first year, then $49*
Value: Up to $400 if used for an airline ticket.

Business Card Signup Bonuses

As a small business owner, I know the value of a good credit card. These deals span all categories, cash, miles and points.

Credit Card Signup Bonus Spend Requirement Annual Fee
SimplyCash® Business Card from American Express $400  $5,000 or more in qualifying purchases on your Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership + $10,000 spent in the first year $0
Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business $200 $3,000 on purchases within the first 3 months $0
Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business $500 $4,500 on purchases within the first 3 months $0 intro for first year; $59 after that
Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business  50,000 Miles $4,500 on purchases within the first 3 months  $0 intro for first year; $59 after that
Ink Cash Business Credit Card $200 $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening $0
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business 20,000 Miles $3,000 on purchases within the first 3 months $0
Ink Plus Business Credit Card 60,000 Points $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.  $95
Bank of America® WorldPoints® Travel Rewards for Business Visa® credit card $100 $500 in purchases within 60 days of account opening $0
Bank of America® Cash Rewards for Business MasterCard® credit card $100 $500 in purchases within 60 days of account opening  $0
The Business Gold Rewards Card from American Express OPEN 25,000 Points $5,000 in purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership  $0 for the first year, then $175
The Blue for Business® Credit Card from American Express OPEN 20,000 Points 10,000 points after making a purchase within the first 3 months $0
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express OPEN 75,000 Points  (50,000 points) – $10,000 spent in the first three months (25,000 points) – $10,000 additional spent in the first three months $450
CitiBusiness® Platinum Select® World MasterCard® 50,000 Miles $3,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening $95, waived for first 12 months
Starwood Preferred Guest® Business Credit Card From American Express 25,000 Points $5,000 in purchases within the first three months  $0 intro for first year, then $95

Student Card Signup Bonuses

Finally, for college students, here are some signup offers on cards with no annual fees.

Credit Card Bonus Spend Requirement Annual Fee
Discover it® for Students – New! Good Grades Rewards $20  Each school year your GPA is 3.0 or higher for up to the next 5 years.  $0
Discover it® chrome for Students – New! Good Grades Rewards $20  Each school year your GPA is 3.0 or higher for up to the next 5 years.  $0
Citi ThankYou® Preferred Card for College Students 2,500 Points $500 within the first 3 months of cardmembership.  $0

 

American Express Credit Cards

Written by

I’ve carried American Express credit cards for years. It started with the iconic Green American Express many years ago. Since then I’ve carried the Gold card, Platinum Card, TrueEarnings CostCo card (no longer available), and the Blue Cash Preferred card. Yes, I’m an Amex fan.

Today Amex offers a wide variety of cards with excellent rewards. It offers top notch travel rewards, cash back, and even 0% introductory rate offers on balance transfers and purchases. The list below starts with consumer cards, followed by Amex business credit cards.

American Express Personal Credit Cards

Editor’s Pick: My favorite consumer Amex card is the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express. With cash back of up to 6%, the $75 annual fee is well worth the cost. The $150 statement credit after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months helps, too.

The Amex EveryDay® Credit Card from American Express
  • Rewards: 2x points at US supermarkets, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1x); 1x points on other purchases.
  • Bonus: Earn 10,000 Membership Reward® points after you use your new Card to make $1,000 in purchases within the first 3 months
  • 0% Offer: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months.
  • Annual Fee: $0
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
  • Rewards: 3% U.S. supermarkets up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 2% U.S. gas stations & select U.S. dept stores, 1% other purchases.
  • Bonus: Get $100 back after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. You will receive $100 back in the form of a statement credit.
  • 0% Offer: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months.
  • Annual Fee: $0
The Amex EveryDay® Preferred Credit Card from American Express
  • Rewards: 3x points at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1x); 2x points at US gas stations; 1x points on other purchases. Terms and limitations apply.
  • Bonus: Earn 15,000 Membership Reward® points after you use your new Card to make $1,000 in purchases within the first 3 months.
  • Bonus #2: Make 30 or more purchases with your Card in a billing period and get 50% extra points on those purchases less returns and credits.
  • 0% Offer: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months.
  • Annual Fee: $95
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
  • Rewards: 6% U.S. supermarkets up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 3% U.S. gas stations & select U.S. dept stores, 1% other purchases.
  • Bonus: $150 back after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. You will receive $150 back in the form of a statement credit.
  • 0% Offer: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months.
  • Annual Fee: $75
Premier Rewards Gold Card from American Express
  • Rewards: 3X points for flights booked directly with airlines. 2X points at US restaurants, US gas stations, and US supermarkets. 1X points on other purchases.  $100 Airline Fee Credit. Up to $100 a year in baggage fees and more at one airline.
  • Bonus: Receive 25,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $2,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 0% Offer: N/A
  • Annual Fee: There is a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $195.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
  • Rewards: 2X Membership Rewards® points on each dollar of eligible purchases, 1X Membership Rewards® points for every eligible dollar you spend. $200 Airline Fee Credit. Up to $200 a year in baggage fees and more at one airline.
  • Bonus: Get 40,000 points after you use your new Card to make $3,000 in purchases in your first 3 months.
  • 0% Offer: N/A
  • Annual Fee: $450
Hilton HHonors™ Card from American Express
  • Rewards: Get 7X Hilton HHonors™ Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a participating hotel or resort within the Hilton Portfolio. Get 5X Hilton HHonors™ Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
  • Bonus: Get 80,000 Hilton HHonors™ Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership. Enjoy complimentary Silver status with your Hilton HHonors™ Card.
  • 0% Offer: N/A
  • Annual Fee: $0
Starwood Preferred Guest® Credit Card from American Express
  • Rewards: Earn up to 5 Starpoints on eligible purchases, & 1 Starpoint on all other purchases.
  • Bonus: Earn 25,000 bonus Starpoints® after you use your new Card to make $3,000 in purchases within the first 3 months.
  • 0% Offer: N/A
  • Annual Fee: $0 intro annual fee for first year, then $95
Gold Delta SkyMiles® Credit Card from American Express
  • Rewards: Earn 2 Miles per dollar spent on purchases made directly with Delta. Earn 1 mile for every dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. Check your first bag free on every Delta flight
  • Bonus: Earn 30,000 bonus miles after you make $1,000 in purchases on your new Card within your first 3 months. Additionally, earn a $50 statement credit after you make a Delta purchase with your new Card within your first 3 months.
  • 0% Offer: N/A
  • Annual Fee: $0 intro annual fee for first year, then $95

American Express Business Credit Cards

Editor’s Pick:For Amex business cards, I give the top pick to the SimplyCash® Business Card from American Express. As a small business owner, I know the value of 5% cash back on office supplies and wireless. Add to that 3% cash back on a category of your choice and no annual fee, and this card is a clear winner.

The Business Gold Rewards Card from American Express OPEN
  • Rewards: Get 3x points – Choose 1 out of 5 categories. Plus, 2X points on the 4 remaining categories and 1X points on other purchases
  • Bonus: Get 25,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $5,000 in purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership
  • 0% Offer: N/A
  • Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, then $175
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express OPEN
  • Rewards: 2x points when you book online with Amex Travel, 1x point per dollar on all other purchases
  • Bonus: Get 75,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership + $10,000 additional in the first three months. (So spend $20,000 total).
  • 0% Offer: N/A
  • Annual Fee: $450
The Plum Card® from American Express OPEN
  • Rewards: Get a 1.5% discount when you pay early, with no cap on what you can earn back.
  • Bonus: N/A
  • 0% Offer: Take up to 60 days to pay with no interest, if you pay your minimum due.
  • Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, then $250
SimplyCash® Business Card from American Express
  • Rewards: 5% cash back at U.S. office supply stores and on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers. 3% cash back on the category of your choice from a list of select categories and 1% cash back on other purchases. 5% and 3% apply to purchases up to $25,000 per rebate year then 1% thereafter. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
  • Bonus: Earn a one-time $200 statement credit after you spend $5,000 or more in qualifying purchases on your Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership & earn an additional $200 after $10,000 is spent in the first year.
  • 0% Offer: 0% introductory APR on purchases for 9 months.
  • Annual Fee: $0
The Blue for Business® Credit Card from American Express OPEN
  • Rewards: 2X points on each dollar of eligible purchases; 1x points on all other purchases. Plus, get 30% more points on purchases with an annual points bonus
  • Bonus: Limited time offer: Get 10X points at U.S. restaurants for the first six months, on up to $2,000 in purchases. Offer expires 02/01/2017. Plus get 2X points on all qualifying purchases on the first $50,000 for the first year. That’s an additional 1 point per dollar spent on purchases.
  • 0% Offer: 0% introductory APR on purchases for 9 months.
  • Annual Fee: $0
Starwood Preferred Guest® Business Credit Card From American Express
  • Rewards: Earn up to 5 Starpoints on eligible purchases, & 1 Starpoint on all other purchases.
  • Bonus: Earn 25,000 bonus Starpoints® after you use your Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months.
  • 0% Offer: N/A
  • Annual Fee: $0 intro annual fee for first year, then $95

The Best Travel Reward Credit Cards of 2017

Written by

Travel reward credit cards is a very broad category. It encompasses everything from airline miles cards to more generic rewards cards. Some cards offer miles, others use points. As a result, picking the best travel rewards card can be a challenge.

To narrow down the list, I divide travel cards into four categories:

1 All-purpose travel cards: These cards aren’t part of an airline or hotel brand. Instead they offer miles or points that can be used with any travel. As you’ll see below the top cards in this category offer at least 2% in rewards. The “catch,” if you will, is that these rewards must be used for travel.

2 Airline miles cards: Offered from every major airlines, these cards can offer the highest value in rewards. The key is to understand your travel patterns. These cards are ideal for those who fly frequently with the same airline.

3 Hotel rewards cards: As with airline miles, these cards can offer good rewards for those who stay with the same hotel brand.

4 Specialty cards: Finally, there are some travel cards that don’t fit neatly into the above categories. An Expedia credit card is a good example, and I’ve placed these types of cards in their own category.

For each of these categories I’ll share my top choice, followed by several excellent options.

All-Purpose Travel Rewards Cards

Editor’s Pick: The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card earns top honors for an all-purpose travel rewards card. Its 2x points for every $1 spent and $50,000 bonus points for new cardmembers lead the pack in the travel category.
Credit Card Travel Rewards Rate Sign-Up Bonus Annual Fee
Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card 2 miles per $1 spent 40,000 Miles* $0 intro for the first year, $59 after that
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card Up to 2 points per $1 spent 50,000 Points** $0 the first year, then $95
Barclaycard Arrival Plus™ World Elite MasterCard® 2X miles on all purchases 40,000 Miles***

$89 (waived the first year)

*Enjoy a one-time bonus of 40,000 miles once you spend $3,000 on purchases within the first 3 months, equal to $400 in travel.

**Earn 50,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $625 in travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

***Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 90 days; that’s enough to redeem for a $400 travel statement credit.

Airline Miles Cards

Editor’s Pick: My favorite airline card is the Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card. It gets my vote for two reasons. It offers an excellent signup bonus of 50,000 miles. And it’s a great airline to fly.

Credit Card Travel Rewards Sign-Up Bonus Annual Fee
Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card 2 Points Per $1 on Travel Purchases 50,000 Miles* $99
Citi®/ AAdvantage® Platinum Select® MasterCard® 2 Miles per dollar on American Airlines, 1 Mile on other purchases 30,000 Miles** $95, waived for first 12 Months
United MileagePlus Explorer Card Double Miles Earned on United Ticket Purchases 30,000 Miles*** $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95

*Earn 50,000 points after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

**Earn 30,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after making $1,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

***Start with 30,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Hotel Rewards Cards

Editor’s Pick: The top pick goes to the Marriott Rewards Premier Credit Card. It offers excellent value in terms of redemptions, and you can earn free night stays very quickly.

 

Credit Card Travel Rewards Sign-Up Bonus Annual Fee
Marriott Rewards Premier Credit Card Earn 5 points on Marriott purchases 80,000 Points* $85
Citi® Hilton HHonorsTM Reserve Card Earn up to 10 bonus points Earn 2 weekend night certificates** $95

*Earn 80,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

**Earn 2 weekend night certificates good at select hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio after you make $2,500 in purchases within 4 months of account opening.

***Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.

Speciality Travel Rewards Credit Cards

Editor’s Pick: For the speciality category the top pick goes to the Expedia®+ Voyager Card from Citi. The points earned on Expedia purchased coupled with the bonus points and cash bonus easily win this category. Note that the Travelocity Credit Card is no longer available.

Credit Card Travel Rewards Sign-Up Bonus Annual Fee
Priceline Credit Card 3x ThankYou Points on Travel Expenses including gas 5,000 Points* $95, waived for first 12 months
Expedia®+ Voyager Card from Citi 4 Expedia+ bonus points per $1 spent on eligible Expedia purchases including flights, hotels, activities and vacation packages; 2 Expedia+ bonus points per $1 spent on purchases for dining out and entertainment, including tickets to concerts, movies and sporting events; 1 Expedia+ bonus point per $1 spent on other purchases 20,000 Points+ $100** $95

*Earn 5,000 bonus points after your first card purchase – That’s enough to redeem for statement credits totalling $50 toward purchases of $25 or more made in the 120 days before redemption

**Earn a $100 statement credit after your first eligible Expedia purchase greater than $100 within 3 month of account opening. PLUS, earn 20,000 Expedia+ rewards bonus points after $2,000 in purchases within 3 months of account opening.

The Best Cash Back Credit Cards of 2017

Written by

Cash Back Credit Cards are ideal for those who want solid rewards without a lot of hassle. Rather than trying to churn miles or points cards, there are several cash rewards cards that offer significant benefits.

There are three types of cash back cards:

1 One Reward Rate: The most simple approach is a card that pays the same reward percentage on all purchases. The industry standard is 1%, but for those with good credit, you can nab 1.5% or even 2% on every purchase.

2 5% Rotating Categories: These cards offer 5% cash back on specific categories of purchases that change every three months. There are spending caps eligible for the 5% cash back, typically $1,500 each quarter. All other purchases typically earn 1% cash back.

3 Bonus Categories: Finally, some cards offer bonus rewards for certain categories of purchases, such as restaurants, groceries, or gas. The bonus rates can vary based on the categories, with some cards offering multiple bonus categories. Purchases outside of the bonus categories typically pay 1%.

As we look at the top cash back cards, we’ve organized the cards below based on these categories:

Best Overall Cash Back Credit Cards

Editor’s Pick: The best cash rewards card in my opinion is the Citi Double Cash MasterCard. It offers 1% on all purchases + 1% when you pay for those purchases. There are no rotating categories to worry about, and the total 2% cash back is excellent. It’s the card I carry and use for everyday purchases (and our daughter’s college education!):  Citi Double Cash Review.

Here is a comparison of the top picks in this category:

Credit Card Cash Back Rewards Sign-Up Bonus Annual Fee
Citi® Double Cash Card 1% on every purchase + 1% as you pay for the purchases N/A $0
Capital One® Quicksilver® Cash Rewards Credit Card 1.5% on every purchase $150* $0
Barclaycard CashForward™ World MasterCard® 1.5% Cash Back on all purchases $200** $0

*One-time $100 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months

**Get a $100 cash rewards bonus after you spend $500 in purchases in the first 90 days after account opening

Compare all of the cards on this page and other cash back cards–and apply online–here.

Best 5% Cash Back Cards

Editor’s Pick: Today there are only two credit cards offering 5% cash back on rotating categories. While the top pick is a close call, it goes to the Discover it® Cashback Match™ card by a nose. Why? Because for new cardmembers Discover will double the cash back you’ve earned during the first year.

Here is a comparison of the top picks in this category:

Credit Card Cash Back Rewards Sign-Up Bonus Annual Fee
Discover it® Cashback Match™ 5% cash back in categories that change each quarter like gas, department stores, Amazon.com and more—up to $1500 every quarter you activate them. 1% cash back on all other purchases. Double Cash Back** $0
Chase Freedom 5% cash back on rotating categories up to the quarterly maximum when you sign up; 1% on other purchases $150*** $0

**Discover is offering double cash back on its Discover it card. As the company explains:

You could turn $200 into $400 with Cashback Match™. We’ll automatically match all the cash back you earn at the end of your first year. New cardmembers only.

***Earn a $150 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening

For both the Discover it® and Chase Freedom cards, the quarterly 5% cash back is limited to a combined $1,500 in purchases. Any purchases over this amount earn 1% cash back.

Note that Citibank once offered a 5% card. It’s called the Citi® Dividend Platinum Select® Visa® Card, but is no longer available to new card applicants.

Best Multiple Category Cards

Editor’s Pick: Our top pick goes to the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express. With up to 3% cash back, a $100 sign-up bonus, and no annual fee, it offers excellent features with low fees. It also helps that the 3% cash back, its top tier, applies to purchases at U.S. supermarkets. We all need food.

Here is a comparison of the top picks in this category:

Credit Card Cash Back Rewards Sign-Up Bonus Annual Fee
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets up to $6,000 per year in purchases, 2% U.S. gas stations & select U.S. dept stores, 1% other purchases. $100* $0
Barclaycard Rewards MasterCard® 2 points per $1 on gas, grocery & utility purchases; 1 point per $1 on all other purchases N/A $0
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express 6% U.S. supermarkets up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 3% U.S. gas stations & select U.S. dept stores, 1% other purchases. $150*** $95 ($75 if your application is received by 8/3/16)

*Get $100 back after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. You will receive $100 back in the form of a statement credit.

**$100 online cash rewards bonus after you spend at least $500 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening

***Get $150 back after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. You will receive $150 back in the form of a statement credit.

Best Interest Free Credit Cards of 2017

Written by

One of the best deals available are interest free credit cards of 2017. No interest cards offer 0% on balance transfers, purchases, or both. With balance transfers, you can transfer one or more high interest credit card balances onto the interest free credit card and pay no interest during the introductory period.

With zero interest on purchases, you can use the card for big purchases or everyday expenses, and pay no interest until the intro period expires. Until recently, there were several cards that offered no interest for up to 12 months. Now, some credit cards offer 0% for up to 15 months, and there are a few cards that extend the 0% offer for 18 months or even 21 months on balance transfers and purchases.

What follows are some of the best 0% balance transfer and 0% on purchase cards available today.

Featured 0% Credit Card

Discover it®

Discover it - AllCardsDiscover it® –  New cardholders open up by earning a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months (and 0% intro APR on purchases for six months).  There is a 3% balance transfer fee attached to all balance transfers and when the intro APR expires, the standard APR becomes 11.49% – 23.49% variable.  Outside of balance transfers, the Discover it® – 18 Month Balance Transfer Offer includes a robust rewards program; 5% cash back on select categories each year and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Giving this card even more juice, all cardholders will get a dollar for dollar match on cashback earned during the first full year. Earn $200 in cash back, get another $200 in cash back on your first year anniversary.  There is no annual fee to own the Discover it® – 18 Month Balance Transfer Offer and the credit required for approval is good/excellent.

  • 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months / on purchases for six months
  • 5% cash back on select category purchases / 1% cash back on all other purchases
  • DOUBLE cash back for the first full year of card membership

Learn More

 

 

Chase Slate®

Chase Slate ReviewChase Slate® – Very similar to the top card on our list, the Chase Slate® offers new cardmembers a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for the first 15 months with NO balance transfer fee.  The balance transfer must be made within the first 60 days and the ongoing APR is 15.49% – 24.24% variable.  There is no annual fee to own the Chase Slate® and a monthly free FICO credit score is included.

  • 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 15 months (on balances transferred in the first 60 days)
  • NO balance transfer fee
  • Free FICO credit score every month

Learn More

 

 

Citi Simplicty® Card

C_SIM3_EMV_MNLW_18-PID 202.epsCiti Simplicity® Card – The card with the longest 0% intro interest rate, the Citi Simplicty® Card kicks off by offering a 0% into APR on purchases and balance transfers for a full 21 months.  After the intro period expires, the ongoing APR becomes 14.24% – 24.24% variable.  There is a 3% balance transfer fee charged to all balance transfers made and there is no annual fee to own the Citi Simplicity® Card.

  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 21 months
  • No late payment fee or over-limit fee
  • Standard purchase and balance transfer APR of 14.24% – 24.24% variable

Learn More

 

 

BankAmericard® Credit Card

Bank Americard - AllCardsBankAmericard® Credit Card – The BankAmericard® Credit Card gives new cardholders a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for the first 18 months.  After the intro period expires, the APR becomes 11.49% – 21.49% variable depending on the applicant’s credit history.  A 3% balance transfer fee applies.  There is no annual fee to own the BankAmericard® Credit Card but also, no ongoing rewards program.

  • 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months
  • Standard purchase and balance transfer APR of 11.49% – 21.49% variable

Learn More

 

 

Wells Fargo Platinum Visa® Credit Card

Wells Fargo Platinum VisaWells Fargo Platinum Visa® Credit Card – The Wells Fargo Platinum Visa® Credit Card provides a 0% intro APR on both purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, then a 15.90% – 25.74% variable applies.  A 3% balance transfer fee is charged and the Wells Fargo Platinum Visa® Credit Card has a unique added benefit.  Up to $600 protection on cardholders cell phone is included ($25 deductible) when they use this card to pay their cellular telephone bill.  There is no annual fee.

  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months
  • Up to $600 ($25 deductible) on cardholders cell phone
  • Standard purchase and balance transfer APR of 15.90% – 25.74% variable

Learn More

 

Prepaid Debit Cards

Written by

The following prepaid credit cards and prepaid debit cards offer a low cost alternative to check cashing stores and checking accounts. Many of the prepaid cards are free with direct deposit and offer online bill pay. With prepaid cards, you can avoid overdraft charges and over limit fees. And there are never interest charges.

Betty Boop Design CARD.com Prepaid MasterCard®

Betty Boop Design CARD.com Prepaid MasterCard®

More Details

  • Choose from many unique designs
  • Receive your paycheck or tax refund by Direct Deposit
  • Remotely deposit checks right from your phone
  • Convenient Android and iPhone apps
  • Share funds with fellow CARD.com MasterCard cardholders
  • Access more than 24,000 surcharge-free ATMs
  • 24/7 support and MasterCard Zero Liability (*Conditions and exceptions apply- see cardholder agreement)
  • No overdraft fees, late fees, or minimum balance

AccountNow® Gold Visa® Prepaid Card

AccountNow® Gold Visa® Prepaid Card

More Details

  • Get paid up to 2 days faster with free direct deposit ▼
  • Get your paycheck or benefits checks in your card account and access your funds up to 2 days earlier than payday.
  • 100% Approval* - upon successful ID verification. No credit check∞. No ChexSystems check. No existing bank account required.
  • $0 Activation fee†. No Minimum Balance. No risk of Overdraft fees.
  • $15 Bonus§ with qualifying Direct Deposit. Never pay to cash your paychecks and get your pay faster.
  • Use it everywhere Visa Debit cards are accepted and pay anyone with PayAnyone Bill Pay. Shop online, rent a car, pay your rent and more.
  • Easy Mobile Account Access and Text Alerts. Get your account balance, transaction details sent to your phone within seconds
  • BBB Accredited A+ Company. Excellent Customer Service.

AchieveCard Visa® Prepaid Card

AchieveCard Visa® Prepaid Card

More Details

  • Get paid faster than a paper check
  • Quick and easy sign up
  • No minimum balance
  • Online banking and SMS alerts
  • Shop online, pay bills, and make everyday purchases
  • Send paper checks with Online Bill Pay - we print & mail them for free!
  • Exclusive AchieveRewards Loyalty Program

Kaiku® Visa® Prepaid Card

Kaiku® Visa® Prepaid Card

More Details

  • Simple Fees: only $3/month when you use in-network ATMs, and that's easy to do, since the Kaiku Card may be used at any of the 55,000 Allpoint surcharge-free ATMs worldwide.
  • Six Eye-Catching Colors: select a vertical woodgrain card design that reflects your style: Ninja Black, Grizzly Brown, Unicorn Pink, Shark Bite Teal, Artsy White, or Jurassic Amber.
  • Funds-ometer: a financial tool with no setup or user inputs. It tracks your weekly spending and compares it to your 60-day average in fun categories like eating out and entertainment.
  • Mobile Check Loading: snap a picture of your check and load it to your card from anywhere with the Kaiku Mobile App on iOS and Android.

PayPal™ Prepaid MasterCard®

PayPal™ Prepaid MasterCard®

More Details

  • Instantly transfer money from your PayPal Account to your PayPal Prepaid MasterCard!
  • Use free direct deposit and get your paychecks and tax refund faster!
  • Get account alerts on your mobile device or download our App to check your balance and see recent transactions
  • Open an optional savings account currently offering a 5.00% APY for balances up to $5,000 (new)
  • Earn Cash back rewards from specially selected stores, restaurants and more
  • No credit check, overdraft fees or interest charges.
  • Safer than carrying cash - use it to pay for everyday purchases.

Chase $450 Coupon – $300 for Checking & $150 for Savings

Written by

Chase $450 Coupon DealChase Bank regularly offers bonuses on new accounts. The bonuses, however, don’t last long. This deal, worth up to $450, expires on April 23, 2015. The checking account bonus requires direct deposit. The savings account bonus requires a deposit of at least $10,000. Details on the bonus can be found here.

Tip: When this deal expires, you can find more Chase bonus coupons on Ebay.

Chase $300 Checking Bonus

To receive the $300 checking bonus:

  1. Open a new Chase Total Checking account, which is subject to approval;
  2. Deposit $25 or more at account opening; AND
  3. Have your direct deposit made to this account within 60 days of account opening. Your direct deposit needs to be an electronic deposit of your paycheck, pension or government benefits (such as Social Security) from your employer or the government. After you have completed all the above checking requirements, Chase will deposit the bonus in your new account within 10 business days.

Note: The checking offer is not available to existing Chase checking customers, those with fiduciary accounts, or those whose accounts have been closed within 90 days or closed with a negative balance.

Chase $150 Savings Bonus

To receive the $150 savings bonus:

  1. Open a new Chase SavingsSM account, which is subject to approval.
  2. Deposit a total of $10,000 or more in new money into the new savings account within 10 business days of account opening; AND
  3. Maintain at least a $10,000 balance for 90 days from the date of deposit.

Chase Details

  • Fees: Chase Total Checking® has no Monthly Service Fee when you do at least one of the following each statement period: Option #1: Have monthly direct deposits totaling $500 or more made to this account; OR, Option #2: Keep a minimum daily balance of $1,500 or more in your checking account; OR, Option #3: Keep an average daily balance of $5,000 or more in any combination of qualifying Chase checking, savings and other balances. Otherwise a $12 Monthly Service Fee will apply in most states ($10 Monthly Service Fee for CA, OR and WA).
  • Credit Pull: Soft Pull from ChexSystems
  • Minimum Deposit Requirement: $25 minimum deposit to open an account.
  • Availability: United States, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, New Jersey, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, West Virginia
  • ATM Network: 18,000 Chase ATMs & 5,500 branches
  • Routing (ABA) number: Various
  • Established: 1824
  • FDIC certificate: 628
  • Phone Number: 1-800-935-9935