What is the best credit card to get in 2023?
Credit card rewards can offer significant value, but it's important to understand the nuances.
For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card provides a higher 2x points per dollar on travel and dining purchases, while the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers a flat 2x miles on all purchases.
However, its hefty $695 annual fee means it's best suited for frequent travelers who can maximize the card's benefits.
Rotating bonus categories, like those offered by the Discover it Cash Back card, can be lucrative for consumers who are willing to keep track of the changing categories each quarter.
This card also features Discover's unique cash back match program in the first year.
The Citi Double Cash Card's simplicity is one of its key strengths, providing a flat 2% cash back (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay) on all purchases without an annual fee.
Credit card application approvals can be influenced by your credit score, income, and existing credit utilization.
Applying for too many cards in a short period can also negatively impact your credit score through hard inquiries.
The Wells Fargo Reflect Card stands out for its lengthy 0% intro APR period on purchases and qualifying balance transfers, which can be up to 21 months, depending on your creditworthiness.
The Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express is a top contender for grocery rewards, offering 6% cash back at U.S.
supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and 6% on select U.S.
streaming subscriptions.
The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card provides 3% cash back on dining and entertainment purchases, making it a compelling option for consumers who spend heavily in those categories.
The United Gateway Card is a co-branded airline credit card that can be beneficial for frequent United flyers, offering perks like free checked bags and priority boarding.
Credit card issuers often conduct "hard pulls" on your credit report when you apply for a new card, which can temporarily lower your credit score.
Limiting the number of applications can help mitigate this impact.
The Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express is a no-annual-fee alternative to the Blue Cash Preferred, offering 3% cash back at U.S.
supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and 2% at U.S.
gas stations and select U.S.
department stores.
The Chase Freedom Unlimited card's straightforward 1.5% cash back on all purchases can be a good option for those who prefer a simple rewards structure without the hassle of tracking bonus categories.
The best credit card for an individual often depends on their spending habits and financial goals.
Factors like annual fees, APRs, and sign-up bonuses should all be considered when selecting the right card.
Credit card issuers may periodically adjust the rewards, benefits, and fees associated with their cards, so it's important to stay updated on any changes that could affect the value proposition of your card.
The Citi Prestige Card, while no longer available for new applicants, previously offered a unique 4th Night Free benefit for hotel stays, which could provide significant savings for frequent travelers.
The Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card allows cardholders to choose their own 3% cash back category from a list of options, providing flexibility in earning rewards.
The American Express Gold Card is known for its generous rewards on dining and grocery purchases, offering 4x points at restaurants worldwide and 4x points at U.S.
supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year in purchases).
The Chase Freedom Flex card combines 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories with 1% cash back on all other purchases, making it a versatile option for consumers who can keep track of the changing bonus categories.
The Amex Everyday Preferred Credit Card from American Express offers bonus points for making a minimum number of monthly transactions, incentivizing more frequent use of the card.
The U.S.
Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card provides a unique 3x points per dollar on eligible mobile wallet purchases, such as those made through Apple Pay or Google Pay, in addition to other travel-related rewards.