Some people spend decades building up credit card rewards. Frequent travelers might accumulate hundreds of thousands of airline miles or hotel points, while everyday spending can generate sizable cash-back balances and flexible rewards over time.

Those rewards can represent real value, but what happens to them after you die isn't always straightforward. Unlike money in a bank account, credit card rewards are governed by the terms of each card issuer and loyalty program, which determine whether your heirs can inherit or redeem them.

Depending on the program, your family might be able to claim those rewards, or they could be forfeited when the account is closed. Understanding the rules before they're needed can help prevent valuable points and miles from being lost during estate settlement.

Can your heirs inherit airline miles?

Credit card rewards have become more valuable than ever. Americans redeemed $20 billion more in rewards in 2024 than they did five years earlier, leaving many cardholders with sizable balances of airline miles and hotel points. That makes it worth understanding whether those rewards can be passed on to your heirs as part of your estate plan.

Airline policies vary widely. Some carriers, including Delta Air Lines and JetBlue, generally close a deceased member's account and don't allow miles to be transferred after death. However, JetBlue's Family Pooling feature lets eligible family members share points during the account holder's lifetime, reducing the risk that rewards will be lost later.

Other airlines are more flexible. United Airlines, for example, says it might transfer all or a portion of a deceased member's miles to an authorized person. The executor might need to provide documentation, such as a death certificate or proof of executor status, and in some cases pay a transfer fee.

Because every loyalty program has its own rules, reviewing your airline's policy before it's needed can help your heirs understand what they might be able to inherit and what steps they'll need to take to claim eligible rewards.

What happens to your hotel points?

Like airline miles, hotel loyalty programs have different rules for whether your heirs can inherit points after your death. Some programs allow points to be transferred to a beneficiary, while others limit who can receive them or require specific documentation.

For example, Hilton and IHG Hotels & Resorts allow points to be transferred after a member's death if the required documentation is submitted within one year. Marriott International generally limits transfers to a legal spouse or the person named in the member's will.

Because every hotel loyalty program has its own rules, reviewing them in advance can help your heirs understand whether points can be transferred and what documentation they'll need to claim them.

Are credit card rewards treated differently?

Credit card rewards aren't limited to airline miles and hotel points. Depending on the card, you might have accumulated several types of rewards over the years, and each could have different redemption or inheritance rules.

Before determining what your heirs may be able to claim, it's helpful to understand the different types of rewards a credit card can offer.

• Cash-back balances: Rewards earned from everyday purchases that can often be redeemed as a statement credit, direct deposit or gift card.
• Flexible rewards points: Credit card points that could be transferred to participating airline or hotel loyalty programs or redeemed through the card issuer.
• Travel portal rewards: Points that can be redeemed through a credit card issuer's travel booking portal for flights, hotels, rental cars and other travel expenses.
• Statement credits: Credits applied directly to a credit card account, such as merchant refunds, promotional offers or certain rewards redemptions, that reduce the account balance.

These rewards can represent significant value, but whether your heirs can claim them depends on the credit card issuer. Some issuers forfeit unused rewards when an account is closed, while others allow an estate to redeem them or convert them to cash.

For example, Capital One converts eligible miles to cash after being notified of a cardholder's death. The value is first applied to any outstanding account balance, and any remaining funds are typically sent to the estate after the required documentation is provided. JPMorgan Chase follows a similar approach by automatically redeeming Ultimate Rewards points for a statement credit.

Citigroup takes a different approach. According to its estate services guidance, an estate representative could redeem a deceased cardholder's ThankYou points, but the rewards generally must be claimed within one year of the cardholder's death.

Because every issuer has its own policies, reviewing your credit card's rewards terms now can help your heirs understand what they might be able to inherit.

Does being an authorized user help?

Being an authorized user might help, but it doesn't automatically give someone ownership of the credit card rewards. Authorized users are permitted to make purchases with the card, but the primary account holder remains responsible for the account and typically retains ownership of any rewards earned.

In some cases, a family member who already has access to the account may be able to redeem rewards before the account is closed. However, what's allowed depends on the credit card issuer's policies.

How families can avoid losing rewards

A little planning now can help your family avoid losing valuable rewards later. Consider taking these steps:

• Keep a list of rewards accounts: Your family will need this list to know where to look for potential rewards.
• Document login information securely: Keep account credentials in a secure location, such as a password manager or estate-planning document, so your executor can locate your accounts if needed.
• Review program transfer rules: Every loyalty program has different rules for transfers after death. Review those policies in advance so you understand your options.
• Redeem rewards periodically: It’s possible that heirs might run into roadblocks when trying to transfer rewards. Consider periodically redeeming those rewards so they don’t go to waste.
• Discuss rewards as part of estate planning: Discuss your rewards accounts with your estate planning attorney and include any relevant instructions in your estate documents.
• Include loyalty accounts in estate inventories: Make sure your inventory includes airline, hotel and credit card rewards accounts so they aren't overlooked during estate settlement.

Rewards aren't an estate asset in the traditional sense

Loyalty programs usually retain broad authority over rewards balances, so rewards don’t function as an estate asset in the traditional sense. While you have full power and control of the balance in your bank account, points and miles are governed by program terms, and the points might be changed or canceled.

While rewards points might seem insignificant compared to retirement accounts or real estate, they can still have meaningful value and might be a sizable portion of an estate. By understanding the program rules in advance, your family can maximize those benefits, rather than losing them during estate management.

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If you hate waiting in long airport security lines, you've likely found yourself considering a Clear+ membership. You may have even been tempted by one of the eager Clear employees who offer to whisk you away from those long lines and to one of the Clear kiosks to enroll and immediately skip to the front.

But the annual membership jumped from $199 in 2024 to $209 in 2025 and now, the company announced another $10 price hike taking effect this month.

At its new price of $219 per year, travelers should take a careful look at exactly what a Clear+ membership gets you and whether it's worth it for the way you travel.

How is Clear+ different from TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?

If you're trying to cut your wait time at the airport, you've likely tried to compare Clear+, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. The differences can be confusing. But the short version is:

All three come with their own separate lines that can often be shorter than the general security line. A single traveler can pair the memberships for even faster processing through airport security.

Is Clear+ worth it?

Even before the latest price hike, Clear+ was already significantly more expensive than TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. As of this latest price hike, travelers are looking at a $219 bill every year to keep their Clear+ membership active.

Meanwhile, TSA PreCheck only costs $85 or less every five years and Global Entry costs $120 every five years. Global Entry also automatically includes TSA PreCheck so you wouldn't need to enroll in both. That works out to a maximum of $24 per year compared to Clear's $219 per year.

It's also worth noting that many travel rewards cards offer full statement credits for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry so if you have one of those, you wouldn't even need to pay the $24 per year to get access to those faster screening programs.

For less frequent travelers, the steeper price tag on a Clear+ membership is unlikely to pay off, especially as the Clear lane is not guaranteed to be the fastest lane. But for frequent flyers, pairing Clear+ with either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry can give you options at the airport so that you're always in the fastest line, no matter what the lines look like that day.

If you can get Clear+ for free through your credit card (more on that below), there's no reason not to go for it – unless you have privacy concerns around giving your data to a private company. But if you don't have a way to get it for free, you'll have to weigh the amount of time you currently spend waiting in airport security lines against that rising price tag.

How to get Clear+ for free (or cheap)

A select few travel credit cards will offer cardholders a statement credit for Clear+ just as they do for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. Some of the most well-known travel rewards cards with that perk include:

• The Platinum Card from American Express
• The Business Platinum Card from American Express
• The American Express Green Card
• Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

If you don't have or want any of those American Express credit cards, you can also get a partial statement credit for Clear+ with Delta-branded American Express cards and United MileagePlus Premier cards.

All Delta SkyMiles American Express cards come with a $40 discount on the Clear+ membership. Meanwhile, if you have any of the United MileagePlus Premier cards, you'll get $30 off the annual fee.

Lastly, Clear also offers special pricing for military and government employees. Currently, if you're eligible for that special pricing, you can get the membership for just $125 per year.

Related content

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• TSA is Launching Gold+. Here's What That Means for Your Next Trip

As shoppers continue searching for ways to stretch their grocery budgets, warehouse clubs and discount grocers are expanding across the country. Retailers including Costco, Aldi and Trader Joe's are adding new locations in 2026, bringing lower-cost shopping options to more communities as consumers remain focused on value.

Costco alone plans to open 26 new warehouses this year, including 10 in the second half of 2026. Aldi has announced plans to open more than 180 stores, while Trader Joe's continues its nationwide expansion after opening four new locations in April.

For shoppers, the expansion could mean more than just a shorter drive to the nearest store. As these retailers move into new markets, they often increase competition, giving consumers more choices and, in some cases, helping keep grocery prices in check. Here's where the biggest retailers are expanding and what it could mean for your wallet.

Which grocery chains are expanding in 2026

Discount grocers and warehouse clubs are growing across the country as demand for lower prices and value-focused shopping remains strong. Aldi, Costco, Trader Joe's, BJ's Wholesale, Walmart and Target have all announced plans to expand or invest in their grocery footprint in 2026.

Here's how some of the country's largest value retailers plan to grow this year:

Why value retailers keep growing

The expansion of warehouse clubs and discount grocers reflects a shift in how Americans are shopping. As grocery prices remain elevated and household budgets stay under pressure, more consumers are seeking retailers that offer lower prices, bulk savings and greater value. That growing demand is encouraging companies to invest in new stores and enter additional markets.

As shoppers look for bargains and better value for their money, they're increasingly turning to retailers like Aldi, which offers low-cost private-label groceries, and warehouse clubs like Costco, where buying in bulk can reduce the cost per item.

Membership warehouse clubs also continue attracting higher-income shoppers. According to the Acosta Group, four out of five club members shop their warehouse club at least once a month, and two out of three have increased how often they visit.

Population growth in the South and Mountain West is also fueling expansion, with Bloomberg reporting that those regions have the fastest-growing working-age populations and rising demand for additional retailers.

What this means for shoppers

The expansion of warehouse clubs and discount grocers could benefit shoppers in several ways. As retailers like Costco and Aldi enter new markets, they increase competition with existing grocery stores, which can help keep prices competitive and give consumers more places to shop.

More locations also make it easier for customers to access value-focused retailers. Whether you're looking to save on groceries, household essentials or bulk purchases, having additional stores nearby means more opportunities to compare prices and choose the retailer that best fits your budget. For warehouse club shoppers, it may also mean having multiple membership options within a reasonable driving distance instead of being limited to a single chain.

Fast-growing communities stand to benefit the most. As retailers expand into these areas, shoppers gain access to more grocery choices at a time when food prices remain elevated. According to USA Today, grocery prices have increased 1.5% since January 2025, making it even more important for consumers to compare prices and stretch their grocery budgets.

How to find out whether a new store is opening near you

If you're hoping a Costco, Aldi or another favorite retailer is opening nearby, there are several ways to stay informed. Start by checking the retailer's website, where store locator tools and news pages often list recently opened locations and upcoming stores.

You can also watch for announcements from your local government or local news outlets, which frequently report on new retail developments before stores open. Following retailers on social media or subscribing to their email newsletters can also help you stay up to date on expansion plans and grand opening announcements.

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The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced a new partnership with Google Wallet on Wednesday. Travelers can now use Google Wallet to opt into TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, a program that allows you to breeze through security checkpoints without any physical government ID or paper boarding pass.

Your TSA PreCheck membership fast-tracks you through the wait line (and shortens the screening process), but you still need to stop and show ID at a security checkpoint before you can go to the screening area. Touchless ID uses facial recognition technology, not a security agent and physical ID, so you can go through a faster-moving line and get through the checkpoint more quickly.

With the new Google Wallet partnership, all of that becomes a little bit more seamless than it already is. If you're a TSA PreCheck member who's already used Touchless ID, you might be wondering how this is any different from your current experience. Here's what you need to know.

What Google Wallet changes about TSA PreCheck Touchless ID

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is available at 65 airports nationwide. But, until now, you had to opt into the service through a participating airline.

That meant enrolling in a frequent flyer program (provided the airline you're flying with is eligible for Touchless ID), manually adding your passport details to that frequent flyer account, and then opting into TSA PreCheck Touchless ID.

That's easy enough if you've done it before with your typical airline, but what about when you're not flying with your regular airline, or if you forget to check ahead of time? Do you need to be enrolled in the frequent flyer program of every participating airline you fly with and then set up Touchless ID with each one individually? Not anymore.

The new Google Wallet integration simplifies the process. If you're flying on any of the 100 airlines participating in the program (and you have TSA PreCheck), you can opt into Touchless ID just once through Google Wallet and use it every time you fly, with any airline, without joining 100 frequent flyer programs.

How to set up TSA PreCheck Touchless ID in Google Wallet

First, you need to enroll in TSA PreCheck if you haven't already done so. Many travel rewards cards offer statement credits that effectively make the program free to you. So, if you're on the fence about whether or not enrolling is worth it and you have one of those travel credit cards, there's no question. It's free to you so any time saved at the airport is a bonus.

Next, you need to add your passport to Google Wallet.

On the day of your flight, here's what your Touchless ID process will look like:

• Check in for your flight online. After you've finished checking in, save your boarding pass to your Google Wallet.
• Opt into Touchless ID. When viewing your boarding pass in your Google Wallet, you should see a "get started" button if you're eligible for this program. Tap it and follow the prompts.
• Look for the TSA badge on your pass. After agreeing to share your digital ID and boarding pass with the TSA, you should see a little TSA PreCheck Touchless ID badge on your boarding pass. This indicates that you've finished the process and you're good to go.

That's all there is to it. You just opt into the program after checking in and you can now skip the hassle of digging around in your bag for your wallet when you reach the TSA checkpoint. Instead, you'll just scan your boarding pass, do the facial recognition process and move on to the security screening.

What else to know about Google Wallet and Touchless ID

Google Wallet is available to Android phone users. If you have an iPhone, there is no Google Wallet app available.

Understandably, some people have security concerns about the use of facial recognition technology. You do have to opt in for Touchless ID, and TSA says: "Images are not used for law enforcement, surveillance, nor shared with other entities. Your photo and personal data are deleted within 24-hours of your scheduled flight departure."

On privacy concerns, Google says your information is shared with the TSA only after you opt in and authenticate. The company adds that digital IDs in the Wallet "are always encrypted and stored directly on your phone."

The Google Wallet Touchless ID option is "rolling out over the coming weeks," according to Google.

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We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We might not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers might impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently.Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment might be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. We calculate a typical annual reward for each card, assuming $36,000 spent annually and less any annual fee. Interest rates, fees, rewards and other terms listed in this article are subject to change. Before you apply for a credit card, check its current terms and conditions with the issuer.

With gas station prices nearing historic highs and supermarket prices racing to do the same, the inflation we're dealing with today can make sticking to a budget difficult.

The best thing you can do as a consumer is get creative about how you spend, whether that's being more intentional about the frugal habits you choose to use or making sure you're getting the most value out of each purchase you make.

One of my favorite tricks for combatting rising prices is leveraging cash back credit cards. While I use travel rewards cards for all my travel spending, I've found that simple cash back is the easiest way to keep rising everyday prices at bay.

It took some time at the outset to research my different options and decide which credit card mix made the most sense for my spending. But now, all I have to do is make sure I'm swiping the right card at checkout to pocket an extra $315 per year on average.

The gas station and supermarket credit cards I use

As a personal finance writer, I'm all about maximizing rewards. I've got a credit card for just about every spending category, and a catch-all card that earns 2% across the board for any purchases that don't earn better rewards on any other card.

For gas stations and U.S. supermarkets, I use the American Express Blue Cash Preferred and the Costco Anywhere Visa Card. The Amex earns 6% at U.S. supermarkets and 3% at gas stations. It also comes with up to $120 per year in streaming statement credits (distributed as up to $10 monthly credits) that I use to get a Hulu and Disney+ streaming bundle almost for free after the credit. My Costco card earns 5% at gas stations and 2% on anything else I buy from the warehouse club.

Both cards come with more perks and rewards, but those are the primary ones I use.

The Amex also comes with a $95 annual fee(see rates and fees). The Costco card has no fee, but you do need to have an active Costco membership, which costs $65 per year (or more if you spring for the executive membership).

Still, with how much I earn in cash-back every year and the other savings I enjoy as a Costco member, I more than make up for those fees. It's important, however, to review your credit card mix regularly and make sure you're still getting enough value out of any card that carries an annual fee.

How I earn $315 per year with these credit cards

Like many households with a Costco membership, the warehouse club is where I get the bulk of my staples such as flour, meat, frozen veggies and household supplies such as toilet paper and laundry detergent.

It's also the only place I buy fuel because I live a few minutes away from a Costco Business Center, where gas prices are consistently 10 to 20 cents cheaper than neighboring stations.

Whenever I'm shopping at Costco, I swipe my Costco card to get the 5% back on gas or 2% on everything I buy in store. For all my other staples — such as fresh produce, spices and anything else that's not available at Costco or not available in a quantity I can reasonably use quickly enough — I swipe my Amex card.

It's as simple as that. Just by being a little more intentional about which credit card I pull out at the cash register, I earned $315 last year. It was an almost even split of a little more than $150 in cash back from each card. That doesn't include the additional up to $120 in streaming credits I get on the Amex card.

Credit cards can also help with organizing your finances

An unintended benefit of having multiple credit cards for everyday spending is that it makes it easy to see at a glance how much I've spent on different categories of my budget. I only use my Amex and Costco credit cards for fuel and supermarkets. I know whatever the combined balance of those two cards is reflects the total amount I've spent so far on those two things.

For my two-person household, I typically try to keep our gas station and supermarket budget under $800 per month. That's roughly $200 per week.

Each week, I can just glance at the current balance on my Amex and Costco cards and see if I'm on track. If our expenses went above $200 last week, I know this week I'll be looking through the pantry to plan a menu that requires as few new ingredients as possible.

The key to any credit card strategy is avoiding interest

While credit cards can be powerful financial tools, they also carry some of the highest interest rates of any debt instrument you can get. For any of these cash back perks to matter, it's extremely important that you avoid spending more than you can afford to pay off in full at the end of the month.

That's why I have that $800 limit in place and why I check the balance weekly to see how well I'm sticking to it.

If you struggle with impulse buying or get overwhelmed when reviewing your finances, a credit card can be more risk than it's worth. A single month of paying interest might be enough to offset any rewards you would earn for an entire year. Make sure you have a plan and budget in place before you try to leverage a credit card rewards program.

Related content

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We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. We calculate a typical annual reward for each card, assuming $36,000 spent annually and less any annual fee. Interest rates, fees, rewards and other terms listed in this article are subject to change. Before you apply for a card, check its current terms and conditions with the issuer.

There are lots I love about my American Express® Gold Card. It earns points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets, which is a bulk of my spending, and those points can valuably be used to book flights and hotel stays.

But there's one less obvious feature that I really enjoy about it: The "Offers." Yes, the Gold Card has annual perks you can enroll in, like the up to $100 Resy Credit, but the Offers are additional, limited-time deals that change regularly. As an example, there's currently an Offer where if you spend $200 or more at Sunglass Hut with your Amex card by July 31, you'll earn a $30 statement credit.

There is a little bit of a catch: Because the Offers change regularly, you have to remember to check and "add" the Offers in order to benefit from them. But if you make it a habit to scroll the Offers instead of, say, doomscrolling, you're in for a treat.

I'm talking primarily about American Express here because it's the card I use the most, but other major card brands, including Kiplinger readers' favorite travel rewards cards, also have their own Offers. Chase has Offers, as does Capital One.

How to use Amex Offers

Using the Offers is easy as long as you know and remember they exist.

If you log in to your American Express account on a computer, scroll down until you see "Amex Offers & Benefits." You'll then see the list of "Available" Offers. The first few are usually Amex-related offers, like ones to upgrade your card or refer someone. But click "View All" to see the spending-related offers.

If you log into your American Express account on the phone app, you can find the tab for "Offers" at the bottom of the screen. Simply click there and scroll to see what's available.

For Chase cards, you can log in to the app and click on your card. Then, scroll all the way down until you see "Chase Offers." On a computer, log in and click on your card, and you'll see "Chase Offers" closer to the top of the screen.

Now that you see the Offers, if one appeals to you, click the "+" button to "add it to your card." Once you've done that, you're enrolled in the deal until it expires.

So, let's say you added that Sunglass Hut offer to your Amex card, and you spend $205 at the store in June, using your Amex card. Afterwards, you'll usually get an email saying you just used an Offer, and if it meets the terms, the Offer will be redeemed. Provided it qualifies, you'll typically see the $30 statement credit appear within a few days.

What types of Offers are there?

Offers have a fairly wide variety. Some of them are for straightforward retail shopping, and I've seen it range from mid-range athleisure stores to more high-end designer stores. Some are for chain restaurants and drink shops. There are also many Offers related to certain hotel brands and resorts.

There are Offers for different types of subscriptions, including streaming deals and travel-related memberships (it's typically a good idea to check if they have something for Clear before you renew).

There are also Offers that are geographically or event-specific. For example, on Amex, I currently see an Offer for spending at the (golf) U.S. Open, and I've used one before at the (tennis) U.S. Open.

Additionally, while many Offers provide statement credits, others award bonus points instead, which is also pretty useful.

My Offers strategy

As I'm an editor at a personal finance publication, it may come as no surprise that I check my card app frequently. Because of that, I end up checking out the Offers at least once a week.

There's no limit to how many Offers you can add to your card, so I add any that feel like I could use. Maybe I'm not planning to shop at a paint shop in the next month, but I also know as a new homeowner, surprises happen, so I'll enroll in that Offer just in case. That mindset means that I don't have to remember the Offer to make use of it — because I'm already enrolled, when I'm panic-buying paint, I'll trigger the Offer.

This changes based on what's going on in your life. When I was living in a rental apartment, for example, I wouldn't bother adding the paint shop Offer, because there's simply no chance I'd shop there. But when I was planning my wedding, I enrolled in any and every dress and shoe store Offer — which was how I ended up earning $80 back in statement credits on my after-party dress, without even remembering the Offer.

The other part of my strategy is that I don't change how I shop based on what Offer is available. For example, just because there is an Offer for shopping at Ferragamo doesn't mean I'm going to decide now to get a new pair of shoes, even if it's tempting. I apply the same psychology to shopping in general: Just because there's a sale doesn't mean I now have to shop.

But there is one way I change my behavior based on Offers. Because I have both an Amex and Chase card, if one has an Offer the other doesn't for a store I'm shopping at, I'll use the appropriate card for it.

Amex tracks how much you saved with Offers, so I can tell you that in my five or so years with this card, I've earned $1,208 in statement credit and an additional 45,000 points, all from Offers. The Gold Card annual fee is $325 (see rates and fees), so I've effectively earned back that fee more than three times over.

Not bad for a couple of minutes of scrolling.

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Airport lounges are the best places to spend your layover or kill that extra time you have after breezing through airport security with TSA PreCheck and Clear. While the cushy seating, complimentary food and open bars are all designed to help guests relax before their flights, there is such a thing as being a little too comfortable in an airport lounge.

Some of the unspoken rules of an airport lounge are common sense, but others might not be so obvious to everyone. There are certain mistakes you might make that are a dead giveaway that this is your first visit. If you're planning to kick back in an airport lounge ahead of your next trip, take this short quiz to find out if you know how to behave inside one.

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We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently. 

Are you tired of juggling complex bonus categories and jumping through hoops to earn travel miles? Introducing the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

This card is refreshingly simple. You earn a flat rate of two miles per dollar on everything, giving you an effortless way to accumulate miles in a hurry. And it's your perfect travel-saving companion, earning you five miles per dollar on car and vacation rentals and hotel bookings through Capital One's travel portal.

Is it the right fit for your needs? I'll break down who this card benefits the most. I'll also recommend strategies to turn this card from a basic wallet staple into your ultimate travel cheat code.

Which travel perks does the card offer me?

Here's a breakdown of some of the card's main travel perks:

Here's another perk: You'll have flexible redemption. As long as your account is active and in good standing, your miles will not expire for the life of the account.

This card is best if you…

• Travel at least a few times per year
• Want simplicity in rewards
• Don't want a high annual fee (this card's is $95)
• Need the ability to transfer miles to airline and hotel partners

Meanwhile, this card won't be a good fit if you…

• Want a card with airport lounge access (consider the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card for this feature)
• Need other incentives like shopping and streaming offers
• A jet setter who wants to maximize luxury rewards

If you fit the profile of someone who would use and benefit from the card, here are some strategies to get the most out of it.

How to transform your card into the ultimate travel cheat code

This card's strength lies in its flexibility and simplicity. Here are a few ways to leverage both to your advantage.

Strategy 1: Use it as your everyday card to achieve the intro bonus

The card comes with a generous introductory bonus of 75,000 miles (a $750 value) when you open the card and charge at least $4,000 in the first three months.

I recommend hitting this mark by shuffling purchases that make sense over to it. This could be streaming, groceries or other expenditures. Once you reach that bonus mark, not only will you have 75,000 miles, you'll also earn another 8,000 miles just for using the card as intended. This gives you $830 off the bat for trips.

Strategy 2: Travel wisely using the perks

Normally, I am not a big proponent of using credit card portals to book travel. They tend to be more expensive than purchasing directly through the airline. However, The Points Guy found Capital One's travel portal to be among the best rates.

When you book, make sure to do so through Capital One's travel portal for hotels and rental cars, where you'll earn five times the miles on every dollar spent.

Strategy 3: Redeem your way

Another perk of this card is that you can choose how to redeem your miles. You can do so by:

• Reimbursement for travel purchases: How this would work is you pay for a travel purchase, like a hotel booking, using your card. Once it processes, you can log in to your Capital One account to get reimbursed for the purchase or a portion of it, with the miles you have. Miles are redeemable at one cent per mile, giving you an easy way to pay off purchases.
• Maximize value: If you travel regularly and want to transfer your points to airlines or hotel partners, you're in luck. Capital One has more than 15 travel partners you can use. This is where the real value is, because in some cases (Air Canada Aeroplan or Turkish Airlines), you can earn higher redemption limits.

All told, the Capital One Venture Rewards card is a fantastic under-the-radar card for the occasional traveler who wants simplicity in rewards and flexible travel partners. While it won't be the right fit for every wallet, it does offer ample value, especially when you transfer to Capital One's travel partners.

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If booking a flight lately feels more expensive and more confusing, that’s because it is.

Airfare prices are rising again, driven largely by higher jet fuel costs tied to geopolitical tensions, including the war in Iran. At the same time, airlines are leaning more heavily on dynamic pricing systems that adjust fares in real time based on demand, competition and even browsing behavior.

As a result, there are fewer predictable "sweet spots" for booking and more sudden price swings that can leave travelers second guessing whether to buy now or wait.

If you're planning summer or fall trips, the key question isn't just where to go. You'll also want to get strategic about when to book and how to avoid overpaying. Here are some tips to help.

How much more travelers are paying for flights

Airfare hasn't increased evenly across the board, but the trend is clear: Prices are trending higher, especially for peak travel periods and international routes.

Jet fuel prices surged from about $85 to $90 per barrel to as high as $150 to $200 per barrel in recent weeks, creating significant financial pressure across the airline industry, according to Reuters.

Domestic fares have seen moderate increases in many markets, while international flights, particularly long-haul routes, are seeing sharper spikes due to higher fuel consumption and constrained capacity. Flights to Europe and parts of Asia have been especially volatile, with prices fluctuating week to week.

Some routes are being hit harder than others. Flights from major hub cities might remain relatively competitive due to airline competition, while smaller regional airports often see steeper increases due to limited flight options and reduced seat inventory.

Another factor is that airlines have become more strategic about limiting discounted seats. That means travelers are less likely to stumble on the ultra-low fares that were more common even a year or two ago.

Why airfare prices are increasing

Several forces are converging to push ticket prices higher and keep them unpredictable.

Rising fuel costs are feeding directly into fares

Jet fuel is one of the largest operating expenses for airlines, often accounting for 20% to 30% of total costs. When oil prices climb, especially amid geopolitical tensions involving Iran and other key energy-producing regions, airlines typically pass at least some of those costs on to consumers.

What makes this cycle different is the speed. Fuel prices have been fluctuating quickly, and airlines are responding faster than they used to, adjusting fares in near real time rather than waiting weeks or months.

Dynamic pricing

Airlines have long used demand-based pricing, but newer algorithms are far more aggressive and responsive. Prices can now shift multiple times per day based on booking patterns, seat availability, competitor pricing, even seasonal demand signals.

This means travelers are less likely to see stable pricing trends. A flight that looks reasonably priced in the morning could jump significantly by evening if demand ticks up.

Strong demand (despite higher prices)

Even with inflation affecting household budgets, travel demand hasn't slowed as much as expected. Many people are still prioritizing vacations, experiences and visiting family, particularly during peak seasons such as summer and holidays. This sustained demand gives airlines less incentive to discount fares, especially when flights are already filling up.

Tighter seat inventory

Airlines are still operating with tighter capacity in some markets compared with prepandemic levels. That includes fewer routes, reduced flight frequency and, in some cases, staffing or aircraft limitations. Fewer available seats naturally push prices higher, particularly on popular routes or during high-demand windows.

Airlines are managing inventory more strategically

Another subtle shift is that airlines are holding back the lowest fare classes for a shorter period or releasing fewer discounted seats altogether. In other words, the "cheap seats" sell out faster, leaving more travelers choosing from higher-priced options.

7 best ways to save money on airfare right now

Even in a rising price environment, there are still ways to keep costs under control, but it requires a more proactive and flexible approach than in the past. Here are some things smart travelers are doing in an attempt to cut costs.

1. Book earlier, but still monitor prices

The traditional advice to book flights six to eight weeks in advance doesn't always hold up in today's market. For many routes, especially international trips, booking several months ahead can help you avoid last-minute price spikes tied to demand and fuel costs.

That said, it's still worth tracking prices after you book. Some airlines now offer fare credits if prices drop, and third-party tools can alert you to potential rebooking opportunities.

2. Be flexible with timing (even by a day or two)

Small adjustments to your itinerary can lead to meaningful savings. Flying midweek, particularly Tuesday or Wednesday, is often cheaper than weekend travel. Early morning or late-night flights can also come with lower fares.

If your schedule allows, shifting your trip by even one day in either direction can sometimes reduce costs significantly.

3. Use fare alerts and price-tracking tools consistently

Platforms such as Google Flights, Hopper and Skyscanner allow you to monitor routes and receive notifications when prices change. These tools are especially useful in an unpredictable market for travel, since it helps you spot dips rather than guessing when to book.

4. Check multiple airports and routing options

Flying out of or into a nearby airport can sometimes lead to lower fares. For example, choosing a secondary airport within driving distance might open cheaper routes or better airline competition.

Consider flights with layovers instead of nonstop service; it can reduce costs, particularly on long-haul trips.

5. Leverage points, miles and credit card perks

With cash prices rising, travel rewards can stretch further. If you've accumulated points through a travel credit card or loyalty program, this might be an ideal time to redeem them, especially for expensive routes where cash fares are inflated.

Some cards also offer travel credits, companion fares or built-in trip protections that can offset overall costs.

6. Watch for bundled fees and compare total cost

Base fares don't always tell the full story. Budget airlines may appear cheaper upfront but charge for carry-on bags, seat selection and other add-ons. Before booking, compare the total cost across airlines, including fees, to avoid surprises.

7. Consider shoulder seasons and off-peak travel

If your plans are flexible, traveling just before or after peak season can deliver better value. Early fall and late spring often offer a balance of good weather and lower demand, which can translate into lower airfare.

Should travelers book now or wait?

This is where many travelers are getting stuck, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. If fuel prices continue rising or geopolitical tensions escalate, airfare could increase further. In that case, waiting could mean paying more later.

On the other hand, prices can still fluctuate, and occasional dips do happen.

As a general guideline, for:

• Domestic flights. Aim to book one to three months in advance
• International flights. Aim for two to six months ahead

If you find a fare that fits your budget and travel plans, it might be worth locking it in, especially if the airline offers free changes or credits.

A good rule of thumb is that if a fare is within your historical expectations (or slightly above), it’s often safer to book than gamble on future drops.

Are budget airlines still the cheapest option?

Budget airlines can still offer lower base fares, but the gap isn't always as wide as it seems. Many discount carriers charge additional fees for carry-on bags, seat selection and even printing boarding passes. Once those costs are added in, the total price can rival or even exceed traditional airlines.

Some budget airlines have reduced routes or frequency as well, which limits availability and flexibility. That said, they can still be a good option for short trips or travelers who can pack light and avoid add-ons.

How travelers can stay ahead of rising airfare prices

Airfare pricing is likely to remain unpredictable in the near term. Between fuel costs, global uncertainty and evolving airline strategies, travelers should expect continued fluctuating prices and options.

The good news is that you don't need perfect timing to save money. If you plan ahead, stay flexible and use the right tools, you can still find reasonable fares even in a rising market. Because in today’s environment, waiting for the "perfect deal" might be the most expensive move of all.

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We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. We calculate a typical annual reward for each card, assuming $36,000 spent annually and less any annual fee. Interest rates, fees, rewards and other terms listed in this article are subject to change. Before you apply for a credit card, check its current terms and conditions with the issuer.

If you're looking to upgrade your travel with luxury rewards, two perennial Kiplinger credit card favorites are the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card and the American Express Platinum Card. We like both because they elevate everyday trips into something truly special.

How? By giving you access to exclusive airport lounges to relax amid the hustle and helping you indulge in luxury hotel stays, with late checkouts, free breakfasts and room upgrades awaiting you.

But each card caters to a different kind of traveler. Do you place more emphasis on simple rewards, or do you want access to elevated perks and are willing to pay a higher annual fee for them? Since both cards have different travel philosophies, you must determine which one matches yours.

Capital One Venture X: Simplicity meets incredible value

The Capital One Venture X card appeals to the value-conscious traveler who also enjoys simplicity. It's perfect if you travel regularly throughout the year and want occasional access to airport lounges.

You also earn generous miles back on travel bookings. On purchases made through the Capital One travel portal, you'll earn:

• 10 times the miles on hotels and rental cards
• Five times the miles on flights and vacation rentals

You'll also earn double the miles on every purchase. That's simplicity that can build miles in a hurry.

The card imposes a $395 annual fee, but there are ways to offset this. First, you'll receive an annual travel credit of $300 to use through the portal. On your card's anniversary, Capital One gifts you 10,000 bonus points — a $100 value. These two perks alone can make that annual fee easier to stomach.

You can also pool your miles and transfer them to participating partners, such as British Airways, Virgin Red and more, with most redemptions at a one-to-one conversion ratio.

What I like about the card is that it gives you access to Capital One and Priority Pass airport lounges. That's a nice boon for travelers, since Priority Pass alone opens up access to more than 1,300 lounges worldwide.

There are things to consider before signing up for the card. If you only travel once or twice a year, there are better travel cards, such as the Capital One Venture Rewards Card with a lower annual fee and great perks.

If you're looking for a travel card that combines generous miles with shopping, dining and streaming perks, there's a better card to consider.

American Express Platinum Card: The card for the ultimate benefit seeker

While the Venture X offers a robust set of perks, it pales in comparison with the American Express Platinum Card's offerings. On the travel end alone, you'll qualify for:

• Five times the points on flights and hotels when booked through Amex's travel portal
• One point per dollar charged on all other purchases
• $200 in Uber Cash ($15 statement credits, $20 in December)
• $200 airline credit for incidentals (baggage fees, drinks, WiFi)
• $600 hotel credit ($300 biannually) when you book through Amex's Fine Hotels and Resorts or The Hotel Collection
• Access to the Global Lounge Network of more than 1,550 lounges worldwide (the most of any credit card program)
• Transfer your points at a one-to-one ratio to Hilton Honors, Delta Airlines, Air France — KLM Flying Blue and many more

This is just a sampling of all the credits the card packs. These benefits make the card perfect for frequent jet setters who want to indulge in the finer things in life at every turn.

To demonstrate, American Express's Fine Hotels and Resorts program features luxury stays at some of the world's top hotels, where you'll receive late checkouts, free breakfast for two and upgraded rooms when available.

On top of this, the $400 Resy dining credit (paid out in $100 statement credits quarterly) allows you to sample some of the finest restaurants in the U.S. For the traveler who wants the best in everything, these perks alone make the $895 annual fee seem reasonable.

There are things you should consider before signing up for the card. First, the card's annual fee is pricey. In some cases, it might force you to use services you would never use to justify the card's fee. Some perks come with restrictions. The Uber monthly credits don't roll over, so if you don't use them one month, you'll miss out on that perk.

Ideally, this card works best if your lifestyle already accommodates it. If it doesn't, you might find this card to be nothing more than an expensive coupon book.

Which card fits your travel profile?

Now that you know each card's philosophy, which one works best for you? Here are a few straightforward cases:

Ultimately, both are exceptional cards. Which one you choose depends on your lifestyle needs.

Personally, I lean towards the Capital One Venture X because the simplicity in rewards, access to airport lounges and lower travel portal costs appeal more to me.

However, if you want the best of everything, the Platinum card gives you perks for the life you already enjoy.

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Spring often brings a sense of fresh starts, and for some families, that includes moving forward with a separation or divorce. If you're navigating that transition, it's easy to focus on the big decisions like housing, custody and dividing assets.

But there's one area that tends to quietly cause long-term financial damage if ignored: Your credit cards. Shared accounts, lingering balances and unclear responsibility can follow you long after the paperwork is finalized. And the reality is, your credit card issuer doesn't care what your divorce decree says; they care whose name is on the account.

Here's how to protect yourself before credit card debt becomes an expensive aftershock of your split.

Joint liability doesn't disappear with a separation

One of the most common and costly misconceptions is assuming that divorce automatically separates debt. It does not.

If you share a joint credit card, both of you remain legally responsible for the balance, regardless of who made the charges or what your agreement says. Even if a court assigns that debt to one person, creditors can still pursue either party for payment.

That means if your ex stops paying, missed payments can appear on your credit report and damage your score. Understanding exactly where you are liable, and where you are not, is the first step in protecting your credit.

Understand who is actually responsible for the debt

Not all credit card accounts are treated the same, and the distinction matters.

Joint accounts vs. authorized users:

• Joint account holders are equally responsible for the debt.
• Authorized users can make purchases, but aren't legally required to repay the balance.

If you're only an authorized user, removing yourself from the account can help protect your credit. But if you're a joint account holder, the responsibility sticks until the balance is paid off and the account is closed or refinanced.

State laws also play a role. In community property states, most debt incurred during marriage is considered shared. In equitable distribution states, debt is divided based on fairness, not necessarily a 50/50 split.

Still, creditors ultimately rely on the account agreement (not state-level divorce rulings) when collecting payments.

Sorting out your finances is hard enough. A divorce can make it even more complicated. Use the tool below, powered by Bankrate, and answer a few quick questions to see personalized offers.

Why your name matters more than the court ruling

If your name is on the credit card account, you are still responsible for making the payment. That is why relying on a court order that says "your ex will pay it" can backfire.

If they miss a payment, it can lower your credit score and increase your credit utilization. It can also trigger late fees and penalty APRs.

In other words, your financial future can be affected by someone else's actions unless you take steps to separate things cleanly.

Take these steps immediately to protect your credit

When a separation becomes real, whether you have filed paperwork or are just starting to live apart, your financial lives can shift faster than you expect. Expenses may overlap, communication can break down and spending habits may change in ways you cannot control. This is one of the most vulnerable times for your credit.

Even a single missed payment or a sudden increase in a joint balance can lower your score and follow you for years. Because credit card accounts update frequently, the impact can happen quickly.

Taking a few proactive steps right away can help you limit new debt, prevent surprises and create a clearer financial boundary between you and your spouse while everything else is being sorted out.

1. Stop using joint credit cards

Continuing to charge expenses on shared accounts can increase balances and complicate negotiations.

2. Freeze or close accounts where possible

Contact your issuer to freeze the account to new purchases or close it entirely. Keep in mind that accounts with balances typically need to be paid down before closure.

3. Remove authorized users (or yourself)

If you’re an authorized user, request removal immediately. If your spouse is an authorized user on your account, consider removing them to limit further charges.

How to separate your finances cleanly

The more organized and intentional you are during this phase, the easier it will be to avoid confusion, missed payments and lingering ties that can cause problems later.

Start by opening accounts in your own name if you do not already have them. This includes a checking account for everyday spending, a savings account for short term goals or emergencies and at least one credit card to help you build or maintain your individual credit history. If most of your financial life was previously shared, this step is essential for establishing independence.

Next, redirect all automatic payments and deposits. Go through your bank and credit card statements line by line to identify recurring charges. Do not forget about things like streaming services, utilities, insurance premiums and subscriptions. Update each one so it is tied to the appropriate individual account. This is also a good time to separate mobile phone plans, cloud storage and any other shared services that could continue billing both parties.

You will also want to create a clear system for handling any remaining shared expenses during the transition. For example, if you are temporarily splitting household bills, decide who is responsible for paying each bill and how reimbursement will work. Putting this in writing, even informally, can help prevent missed payments and misunderstandings.

Separating your finances may feel tedious, but it is one of the most important steps you can take to move forward with clarity and control.

Watch for these common (and costly) mistakes

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to overlook key details during a separation, especially when emotions and logistics are both running high. Here are some costly mistakes to avoid.

• Assuming your ex will pay: Even if it’s written into your divorce decree, creditors can still hold you responsible if your name is on the account. Whenever possible, aim to remove your name from the debt entirely or ensure the balance is transferred into one person’s sole account.
• Ignoring joint accounts: It’s surprisingly common for people to "set aside" joint accounts during a separation, especially if they’re focused on larger issues. But leaving accounts open and unmanaged can lead to new charges, growing balances or missed payments. Make it a priority to address every shared account, even ones with small balances or no recent activity.
• Missing payments during the transition: Between moving, legal expenses and changes in income, it’s easy for due dates to slip through the cracks. Setting up automatic payments can help protect your credit while you sort everything out.
• Overlooking authorized user accounts: If you’re an authorized user on your spouse’s card, their spending behavior can still affect your credit utilization and payment history. Removing yourself from these accounts can help limit your exposure.
• Closing accounts without a plan: Closing accounts can reduce your available credit, which may increase your utilization ratio and lower your score. Make sure you have a strategy for paying off or transferring balances first.

Being aware of these common pitfalls can help you stay one step ahead, and protect your credit while you navigate a major life transition.

How divorce can affect your credit score

The act of divorcing itself won’t hurt your credit score. But the financial ripple effects can. Your score may drop if payments are missed, balances increase (raising your credit utilization), or even if accounts are closed, which reduces available credit.

On the flip side, taking control early by paying down balances, separating accounts and maintaining on-time payments can help stabilize your credit over time.

Divorce doesn't automatically divide your debt. Instead, you’ll have to take a proactive approach to do that with the partner you're separating from.

Taking clear, early action on credit cards can prevent long-term financial damage and give you a cleaner slate as you move forward.

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The Iran war has already triggered soaring gas prices, with drivers paying an average of over $4.14 per gallon. But gasoline isn't the only fuel that's gotten more expensive since the conflict started.

As oil prices keep climbing, so does the cost of jet fuel. Since March 6, the price of jet fuel has surged nearly 33%, hitting $209 per barrel by April 3, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). That's an even sharper spike than drivers are seeing at the pump, where the cost per gallon has risen roughly 21% in the same time period.

With United paying more to fill its tanks, it's looking for ways to offset those costs. For travelers, that means higher fees. Starting today, the cost per checked bag will go up to $45 for United passengers, a $10 increase over previous fees.

United Airlines isn't the only airline to increase fees because of fuel costs

The $10 fee hike United customers will see comes as the Iran war continues to push oil prices higher, raising the prices of jet fuel in turn. It's not the only airline to hike fees citing the higher costs of fueling planes.

Earlier this month, JetBlue announced that checked bag fees would be going up as much as $9 per bag. And Delta will tack an extra $10 onto its own checked bag fees, too.

While the idea of paying more to check a bag is unwelcome news for customers already being squeezed at the gas pump and the grocery store, this may actually be a better option. By raising fees on optional services, airlines hope to keep base fares more competitive.

How to avoid checked bag fees

Whether you're flying United, JetBlue, Delta or any other airline, honing your strategy to avoid rising baggage fees is more important than ever. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can avoid paying for a checked bag altogether. Here are a few of your best options:

• Travel with a carry-on only. The most straightforward way to avoid a checked bag fee is to avoid having to check a bag in the first place. Get refillable travel-size bottles to hold your hygiene products without having to bring full-size bottles. Coordinate your wardrobe so you can mix and match a few simple pieces for multiple outfits. Get a spacious weekender bag to serve as your "personal item" where you can pack any overflow that doesn't fit in your carry-on luggage.
• Join a mileage club. Most airlines have mileage clubs that allow you to earn points and perks for flying. While you won't instantly get free checked bag perks with any of them, joining now can open up some options for you. One is to chase airline status until you qualify for a membership tier that does come with free baggage perks. Another is to pair your membership with an airline credit card that offers free checked bags right away.
• Get an airline credit card. Many airline credit cards will offer at least one free checked bag to cardholders. Of course, many of these cards also come with annual fees. If you don't fly often, eating the cost of a baggage fee now might be cheaper than paying for a card with an annual fee. But even passengers who only fly a couple of times a year may be able to earn that fee back from saved checked bag fees after two or three flights, depending on the card you choose. If you go this route, compare the checked bag perks as well as the other perks that you would actually use between a couple of cards. Then calculate how often you would have to fly and use those perks to make the annual fee worth it.
• Book a higher class if you have a lot of bags. Upgrading from economy to business to save money might sound counterintuitive, but if you're flying with a lot of baggage, it can actually work out in your favor. Premium fares tend to come with more generous checked bag perks. So, before eating the cost of add-on fees, just peak at the cost of upgrading your fare and compare the price difference to the amount you'd be paying in baggage fees. If it's the same or less, you might as well enjoy a more luxurious flight if you're spending the money anyway.
• Factor in all fees when comparing airline fares. Spirit or Frontier often look like the cheapest option when shopping airfares online. But sometimes, when you add on the carry-on fees, seat selection fees and all the other not-so-optional add-ons, the price can end up being even higher than a major airline. Before you ditch United because of the higher checked bag fees, compare the fare price (baggage fees included) to the all-in pricing of competitors. Even if you can't avoid the fee, it might still end up being the most cost effective option.

Airfare has always been sensitive to fuel costs, and this is a reminder that those shifts can show up in ways that are less obvious than ticket prices. As airlines look for ways to manage rising expenses, fees are likely to remain in focus.

For travelers, a little planning can go a long way. Understanding how airlines price add-ons, and choosing the right strategy for how you fly, can help you keep more of your money.

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In the competitive world of corporate travel, every dollar matters. Business flights are often unavoidable, yet they carry substantial expenses that can erode profit margins.

But what if you could unlock a hidden strategy that fundamentally changes how much your business spends on travel? This could be the solution to transform your corporate travel budget from a source of stress into a competitive advantage.

I'll break down a simple trick that can save your company on flights. I'll also outline things to keep in mind before using this approach, and when it doesn't benefit your business.

Here's how to earn the 35% airline points rebate

The answer lies in your wallet. Business credit cards offer a variety of perks, but does yours match your needs?

To illustrate, if your company spends heavily on travel, consider the Business Platinum Card® from American Express. This card provides significant value by earning you five times the membership points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel.

As you rack up membership points, you might wonder where the best place is to redeem them. This is where the card really displays its value.

Use Membership Rewards points to book flights through Amex Travel. You’ll receive 35% of the points back when booking business or first-class flights on any airline, or economy flights on your selected airline.

Here's how it works:

• Choose a selected airline online or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card. You can change your selected airline once per calendar year.
• Use membership points to pay for all or a portion of your flights.
• You'll receive the 35% rebate (in membership points) six to 10 weeks after charges appear on your billing statement.
• You can receive up to a million membership points back in each calendar year
• For bookings made through Spirit or Southwest Airlines, you'll need to call Amex business travel services at 1-800-553-9497 to qualify.

Is this card right for your business?

This won't be the best travel solution for all businesses. To start, there's the card's $895 annual fee, and if your employees need cards, it's $400 per card. These fees alone might not be worth the switch if your company has a no-fee or low-fee card that offers satisfactory rewards.

Additionally, you must select only one airline to qualify. If you have employees traveling internationally, you might not be able to maximize the rewards enough to justify the fee, though codeshare flights are eligible. This is where an airline sells tickets for another airline's flight.

The qualifying airlines:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• JetBlue
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines

Another thing to keep in mind is that booking travel through Amex's Travel portal might not lead to the best flight deals. Research from The Points Guy found portal bookings can cost about 10.32% more on average than booking directly with airlines, though the difference varies depending on the route, fare class and how points are redeemed.

How much do I need to spend on flights to justify the fee?

While there are many things to consider before deciding whether the card is right for you, you might be surprised to learn that it doesn't cost much to justify the annual fee with the 35% rebate.

Assuming a redemption value of about 1 cent per point, the 35% rebate could offset the card’s $895 annual fee after roughly $2,557 in flights booked with points. Actual savings will vary depending on how points are earned and redeemed.

This isn't a high bar for many businesses. The key is building up to the point at which you can use points regularly to book flights.

On top of this, you'll earn an annual $200 airline credit for incidentals, a $200 Hilton credit for stays and a $209 Clear Plus membership. Considering you're already traveling, you can use the card to earn membership points on things you'll use anyway, and statement credits could justify the fee in no time.

Leverage points to lower travel costs

Overall, saving on travel is a key consideration for many businesses. Using the Business Platinum Card from American Express can help you earn 35% of your points back on flights booked using your points. Over time, this could save you significantly.

While the annual fee is high, the spending threshold needed to justify it is not. However, if your business doesn't travel often, there are better card options available without the higher annual fees. Here's a good one:

We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. We calculate a typical annual reward for each card, assuming $36,000 spent annually and less any annual fee. Interest rates, fees, rewards and other terms listed in this article are subject to change. Before you apply for a credit card, check its current terms and conditions with the issuer.

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These days, most credit card issuers don't allow people to own a card account jointly, even with a spouse. So if you want to share your account with a family member, adding them as an authorized user is usually the way to do it.

An authorized user receives their own card that's linked to your account, and they can use it to make purchases and access the card's perks. But as the primary cardholder, you are on the hook for paying the bills.

Before you add someone to your card, it's worth weighing the benefits, potential risks and a few practical rules that can help prevent surprises.

Benefits of adding an authorized user

Adding your spouse or child as an authorized user can have numerous benefits, as long as they manage their card responsibly. With a rewards credit card account, you can rack up extra cash back, points or miles if more than one person makes purchases with it.

Plus, keeping track of your family's spending may be easier. And especially for a teen or young adult, being an authorized user is a solid avenue to building a positive credit history.

Important details to check before adding an authorized user

When you add a user to your account, you'll need to provide your card issuer with identifying information such as their Social Security number and date of birth, but they won't have to share their income or undergo a credit check.

Usually, anyone — even if they're not a family member — can become an authorized user as long as they meet any age requirements; with some issuers, authorized users must meet an age minimum, ranging from 13 to 18.

Although you can add a user for free on many cards, you should ask about fees, especially with a premium card, says credit expert Gerri Detweiler. With the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, for example, the standard annual fee is $795, and you must pay an extra $195 per year for each authorized user.

Also, find out whether the user has access to all of the card's benefits, such as statement credits for certain purchases, or a limited selection.

Check whether your card issuer reports authorized-user accounts to the major credit-reporting companies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion); most do. Both you and the user benefit from account activity that contributes to a positive credit history, including on-time bill payments.

But any detrimental moves affect both of you, too. If, for example, your card balance rises higher than its typical level when the user starts spending on the card, your account's utilization ratio (the percentage of available credit you use) may increase, too — and that can hurt your credit score. Generally, the lower your credit-utilization ratio, the better.

Detweiler recommends that you ask your issuer for a higher credit limit if you think the authorized user's spending could raise your credit-utilization ratio. But you'll need to make arrangements with the user to ensure that their spending stays within the bounds of your budget.

If they rack up a high balance and you fall behind on your credit card payments, both of your credit scores could suffer serious damage. And even if you pay the bills on time, you'll owe interest on the remaining amount if you don't pay the balance in full each month.

Managing your authorized user account

You may want to set clear spending limits upfront or review statements together each month so there are no surprises. To keep track of the user's account activity, sign up to get alerts from your card issuer of new transactions or changes in your card's balance.

Depending on your relationship with the user, you may want to set up a plan for them to pay you for their charges each month; this could work well with, say, an adult child.

If the arrangement stops working or creates financial strain, you can usually remove an authorized user quickly through your card issuer's app or customer service line. With the right guardrails in place, sharing a card can be a useful financial tool rather than a source of stress.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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Most Americans — nearly three in four — have a rewards credit card, according to a 2024 poll from market research company Ipsos. But ensuring that you maximize your cash back, points and miles, and other benefits can be a challenge, especially if multiple cards are in your wallet.

Try one of these apps to stay on top of your cards' rewards and perks.

The best apps for tracking credit card rewards

AwardWallet lets you track more than 600 credit card, airline and hotel programs. The app shows you how much you earn in rewards with each transaction and your rewards balance with each program.

It also offers a tool that tells you which cards provide the most valuable rewards at specific merchants. One of the best features of the app's paid version, AwardWallet Plus ($50 yearly), is that it displays expiration dates for an unlimited number of programs (the free version displays just three).

Meanwhile, the MaxRewards app focuses on credit card rewards, pointing out the best card to use based on your location. For example, if you're at Target, it will tell you which card provides the most valuable rewards at the store.

MaxRewards Gold (starting at $108 yearly) offers additional perks that may be especially helpful if you have a premium credit card. It automatically activates offers and quarterly bonus categories, and it monitors your benefits usage.

If, say, you have a $100 quarterly credit for spending at certain restaurants, it tracks how much of the credit you've used and notifies you when it's about to expire.

Similarly, the free app from The Points Guy (available only for iPhone), which tracks rewards for more than 70 credit card, hotel and airline loyalty programs, keeps tabs on the benefits that you've used as well as how soon they expire. It also calculates how much those rewards are worth.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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If you’re a Bilt cardholder, you’ve probably seen the headlines about the company’s breakup with Wells Fargo, and maybe wondered what it actually means for your points, your rent rewards and your credit card in 2026. The truth is, this transition is a pretty big deal, not just for renters who love earning points on monthly payments, but for anyone who’s built Bilt into their rewards strategy.

Over the next few months, the original Wells Fargo-issued Bilt Mastercard will wind down, a brand-new lineup of Bilt cards will roll out and every current cardholder will need to make a choice about how they want to move forward. The good news? Your points are safe. The catch?

You’ll want a clear plan before the February deadline so you don’t accidentally end up with a completely different credit card, or lose out on earning opportunities you’ve come to depend on.

Why Bilt and Wells Fargo are parting ways

If you’ve been using the Bilt Mastercard to earn points on rent, you may have noticed some big changes brewing. Bilt and Wells Fargo are parting ways after several years of running the card together. Wells Fargo handled the card issuing, while Bilt focused on its rewards program and partnerships.

Behind the scenes, this partnership turned out to be expensive for Wells Fargo. Industry reporting suggests the bank was losing money on the portfolio, thanks in part to rich rewards and high customer incentives.

At the same time, Bilt’s plans were getting bigger. The company wants to expand beyond renters and eventually let homeowners earn points on mortgage payments.

To make this happen, Bilt is moving to a new issuing partner (Cardless, backed by Column Bank). With that, the card itself is getting an overhaul under something Bilt calls "Bilt Card 2.0."

The result is one of the biggest reward-card overhauls in years, and cardholders will soon have choices to make.

Key dates and the transition timeline

The timeline is tight, so Bilt members should mark their calendars now.

Wells Fargo stopped accepting new Bilt card applications on November 5, 2025, effectively freezing the old program. Existing Wells Fargo-issued Bilt cards will keep working normally through February 6, 2026.

On February 7, two things happen: the Wells Fargo Bilt card becomes inactive and Wells Fargo automatically converts accounts into a Wells Fargo Autograph Visa, unless a cardholder opts into the new Bilt Card 2.0 beforehand.

If you do nothing, you’ll simply wake up to an Autograph Visa, meaning you’ll no longer earn Bilt points on purchases. But the credit line and account history will remain with Wells Fargo.

What happens to your points

The good news is that your Bilt Rewards points are safe. Points are tied to your Bilt Rewards membership and not to your Wells Fargo-issued credit card. So balances will stay intact throughout the transition.

You’ll continue managing and redeeming your points exclusively through the Bilt app, not through Wells Fargo. Whether you switch to a Bilt 2.0 card or keep the new Autograph Visa, your existing points remain available to access through your Built app for travel partners, rent-payment redemptions, shopping portals and Bilt Experiences.

What changes is how you earn new points: only Bilt’s next-generation cards will continue rewarding rent and mortgage payments.

Your options as a cardholder

When the dust settles, you’ll have three main paths to choose from.

Option 1: Move to Bilt Card 2.0

Bilt is launching three new cards: a no-fee card, a mid-tier ($95), and a premium version ($495). These will continue earning Bilt points and will eventually plug into Bilt’s expanded rent-and-mortgage rewards program.

If staying within the Bilt ecosystem matters to you, especially if you’re interested in the future mortgage-rewards idea, this is the option to explore.

Option 2: Stick with the Wells Fargo Autograph Visa

If you don’t opt in to the new Bilt lineup, Wells Fargo will hand you an Autograph Visa. It’s a solid everyday rewards card, but it earns Wells Fargo Rewards, not Bilt points and it won’t give rewards for rent.

This could be a good option if you want to keep your Wells Fargo account open and don’t need Bilt-specific perks anymore.

Option 3: Close the account

You can close your account entirely, though you’ll want to think through how that affects your credit, especially account age and available credit. If you go this route, make a clean exit: redeem any Wells Fargo Rewards and ensure all autopays are moved elsewhere.

New rewards opportunities

One of the most interesting parts of Bilt’s evolution is its goal to reward mortgage payments, not just rent. For renters, nothing really changes. You’ll still be able to earn points on rent with no fees. But for homeowners, this could be a big deal, since mortgage payments are one of the few major expenses that typically don’t earn rewards.

Bilt hasn’t revealed all the details yet, but the direction is clear: the company wants to grow into a more all-purpose rewards platform rather than just “the rent card.” If you’re planning to buy a home in the next few years, this could be something worth keeping on your radar.

Bilt’s new card also comes with a temporary interest-rate cap

In addition to changes in issuers and rewards, Bilt recently announced that its new credit cards will feature a temporary interest-rate cap of 10% APR on purchases for the first year.

This introductory cap applies to the three new Bilt cards launching under the Bilt 2.0 program and is intended to help ease borrowing costs for cardholders, particularly at a time when nationwide credit card rates remain significantly higher.

The move follows a recent proposal by President Trump to cap credit card interest at 10% for one year. This policy is a response to ongoing concerns about high borrowing costs, and signals Bilt’s willingness to align with broader market discussions on affordability.

While this capped APR is promotional and limited to the first 12 months, it differentiates Bilt’s new offerings from many competitors and could be especially appealing to cardholders who carry balances from month to month.

Practical tips for managing the transition

A little prep now can save headaches later.

• Max out your current Bilt earnings before Feb. 6. Use your card for rent and your usual purchases to collect any last-minute points.
• Review the Bilt 2.0 card options in early January. This is when you’ll be able to compare perks, fees, travel benefits and potential mortgage rewards to decide what fits your lifestyle.
• Expect new card numbers. Whether you shift to Bilt 2.0 or get rolled into the Autograph Visa, your credit-card details will change. That means updating your recurring bills, streaming subscriptions, digital wallet and your rent platform.
• Monitor February statements closely. Transition months always cause a little friction, so be on the lookout for duplicate charges, declines or missing payments.

Credit score and account management considerations

Cardholders worried about credit score impacts can breathe easier. Bilt says no hard inquiry is required to move into the Bilt 2.0 lineup.

If you keep the Autograph Visa, your credit line stays with Wells Fargo and your account age remains intact. That’s helpful because account age makes up an important part of your credit score.

The only scenario that could ding your credit is closing accounts or opening additional new cards without a plan. Think through how each choice affects your utilization and long-term strategy.

What cardholders should do now

This transition isn’t as scary as it sounds, but it does require a little attention. Your points are secure, you won’t lose your Bilt membership and you have multiple paths forward depending on your goals.

If you love earning rewards on rent payments(or hope one day to earn them on mortgage payments), exploring Bilt’s new card lineup will likely give you the most continuity. If you’d prefer to keep things simple with Wells Fargo, the Autograph Visa will handle your everyday purchases without much disruption.

For now, the best move is to keep earning points through early February, review your options now and make a thoughtful choice before the automatic switch kicks in.

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We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. We calculate a typical annual reward for each card, assuming $36,000 spent annually and less any annual fee. Interest rates, fees, rewards and other terms listed in this article are subject to change. Before you apply for a credit card, check its current terms and conditions with the issuer.

If you have a premium credit card, you may be paying significantly more for the privilege.

The annual fee for Chase Sapphire Reserve is rising to $795 — a $245 increase from the previous fee of $550 — while American Express is boosting the annual fee for The American Express Platinum Card® to $895, a $200 jump from the former $695 fee.

With this in mind, are the perks worth the higher fees? I'll break down what you receive with each card so you can determine if it's still worth it.

Elevated perks add value

Along with pushing up fees, the cards are revamping their benefits. In addition to other long-standing perks, Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders now get semiannual credits of $250 for bookings with hotels and resorts that are part of The Edit, Chase’s curated collection of fine hotels and resorts.

Cardholders also earn $150 in semi-annual credits at restaurants that participate in Chase’s Exclusive Tables program; $150 in semiannual credits for concert and event tickets through StubHub and Viagogo; $10 monthly for a Peloton membership; and $10 monthly for Lyft rides. You also receive a complimentary subscription to Apple TV+ and Apple Music, valued at $250 annually.

New benefits for Amex Platinum cardholders include an increased semiannual credit of $300 for stays at properties in Amex’s Fine Hotels + Resorts or Hotel Collection; $100 quarterly in credits for purchases at restaurants that participate with the Resy platform; $25 monthly in credits for an expanded list of digital entertainment subscriptions, including Paramount+ and YouTube TV; $75 quarterly in credits for purchases at fitness-apparel store Lululemon.

Are the perks worth the price?

Weigh the benefits. Whether you already have a premium card or are considering opening one, the key consideration is whether you receive enough value from the benefits to make the annual fee worthwhile. Think about which perks fit into your current lifestyle.

If you travel often, access to airport lounges and credits toward hotel stays or flight incidental fees may easily cover the annual fee and more. Those who already subscribe to streaming platforms or other services that a card offers as a complimentary perk may come out ahead.

If you have to stretch beyond your typical spending to use the benefits, however, think twice about whether the card should be in your wallet. “Do the math on your circumstances. Did you save money, or did you go out of your way to use perks to justify the fees?” says Ted Rossman, senior industry analyst at Bankrate. “You could just be treating your card as an expensive coupon book.”

And don’t overlook changes that may be less favorable for you. Under Chase Sapphire Reserve’s previous structure, for example, you could exchange points earned with the card for all bookings through Chase Travel at a value of 1.5 cents each.

But going forward, points are generally worth 1 cent apiece for Chase Travel redemptions. (For details on how and when the point values transition for existing cardholders, go to Chase.)

Chase has instead introduced “Points Boost,” in which points are worth up to 2 cents each only on select hotel and flight purchases through Chase Travel.

If you’re on the fence about whether you’re getting adequate value from your premium card, you could try asking the issuer to reduce the fee for a year. If your issuer won’t provide a discount, consider switching to one of its other cards with a lower annual fee.

Compare your options

We’ve listed the annual fee, points-earning structure and noteworthy perks of premium rewards cards from three major issuers.

Along with the features listed below, all the cards offer credits to cover the application fee for the TSA PreCheck or Global Entry airport security screening programs. For a full rundown of each card’s benefits, visit the issuers’ websites.

American Express Platinum

• Annual fee: $895
• Points structure: Five per dollar spent on flights and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel; two per dollar on other eligible Amex Travel purchases; one per dollar on other spending
• Top benefits: Access to airport lounges in various networks, including Amex’s own Centurion lounges as well as Delta Sky Club (10 visits yearly) and Priority Pass Select
• $300 in semiannual credits for select hotel bookings
• $200 annual credit for incidental fees with one airline of choice
• $15 monthly (and an extra $20 in December) in Uber Cash
• $120 in annual credits for a subscription to Uber One
• $209 annual credit for a CLEAR Plus membership, for expedited airport security screening
• $100 in quarterly credits for dining purchases at restaurants that use the Resy platform
• $25 in monthly credits for select streaming subscriptions
• $75 in quarterly credits for Lululemon purchases
• $12.95 monthly credit for a membership with Walmart+

Capital One Venture X

• Annual fee: $395
• Points structure: 10 per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; five per dollar on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel; two per dollar on other spending
• Access to Capital One airport lounges, as well as those in the Priority Pass network
• $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel
• 10,000 bonus points each year on your cardmember anniversary
• $100 resort credit when you stay at properties in the Capital One Premier Collection
• $50 resort credit when you stay at properties in the Capital One Lifestyle Collection

Chase Sapphire Reserve

• Annual fee: $795
• Points structure: Eight per dollar on Chase Travel purchases; four per dollar on flights and hotel stays booked directly with the airline or hotel; three per dollar at restaurants; one on other spending
• Access to Chase Sapphire airport lounges as well as those in the Priority Pass Select network
• $300 annual credit for travel purchases
• $250 in semiannual credits for select hotel bookings
• $150 in semiannual credits for purchases at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables
• Complimentary Apple TV+ and Apple Music subscriptions
• $25 monthly to spend with food-delivery service DoorDash, and a complimentary DashPass membership, which offers reduced fees on orders ($120 value)
• $150 in semiannual credits for purchases with StubHub and Viagogo
• $10 monthly in Lyft credits
• $10 monthly credit for a membership with Peloton

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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When you rent a car, the company almost always tries to add additional rental car fees, including offering supplemental coverage that costs extra. When you get to that stage of the booking process, you're probably wondering if it would be irresponsible of you to decline to save a few bucks.

The good news is that the answer is probably no. Most people can safely decline the added coverage. Technically, what rental car companies are offering you is usually not insurance, but a waiver. Basically, for a fee, you can waive responsibility for damage to the rental car while you have it.

The benefit of this is that, if something happens, you can just return the car and be done with it. There's no claims process and no deductible to worry about. The drawback is that these waivers can be pricey and, depending on what's in your wallet and where you're driving, probably unnecessary.

If you already have car insurance and especially if you have a credit card that covers rental car insurance, it probably isn't worth the added cost. Feeling unsure about whether you should deny that damage waiver the rental car company is offering you? Here's what you need to consider as you decide.

Your regular car insurance likely applies when driving a rental car

If you already have car insurance, your coverage likely extends to a rental car. That is, whatever you'd be covered for when driving your personal car should apply when driving a rental as well.

But, there are always exceptions and the limits may differ depending on where you're renting the car.

If you're booking a car rental soon, call your insurer and ask the following questions to find out what coverage you have and whether or not there are any gaps you might need to address before getting behind the wheel:

• Does my current coverage extend to a rental car?
• If you pay for roadside assistance or other special coverage, too, do they also extend to a rental car?

If the answer is yes to both of these questions, review your policy just to remind yourself what is included.

If your regular car insurance is a minimum coverage policy, for example, you wouldn't be covered for damages to the rental. In that case, paying for the collision damage waiver might be worth it.

If you're driving this rental car for an extended period, it might be worth getting a quote to add collision insurance to your existing policy. Those waivers can get expensive fast, so it might be cheaper to just add the coverage to your policy.

You probably aren't covered if you're driving in a foreign country

If you're renting a car in another country, your U.S. policy likely doesn't extend beyond the United States (and sometimes Canada or Mexico). In this case, you'll need to check the insurance requirements of the country you're driving in.

Since you'll also probably need to apply for an international driving permit in order to drive there, you can check into insurance requirements while you're doing that. This is also something you can ask the car rental company about.

Your credit card might also fill any gaps in coverage

Many travel credit cards offer rental car protection as a perk. This benefit kicks in after your own car insurance pays out whatever it has to pay in an accident. While credit cards vary, the protection is usually similar to the damage waiver the rental car company wants to charge you extra for.

In most cases, activating this coverage is as simple as booking the rental with the credit card that offers rental car protection. If you're in an accident, it may reimburse you for any deductible you had to pay on your own insurance and it may cover damage or theft to the car you're renting.

If you have a travel card already, read the fine print on how its rental car protection benefit works and what it covers. If you don't, consider applying for a card before you book the rental.

Rental car reimbursement coverage is different (and not usually included)

If you're wondering whether your car insurance will pay for the rental car you need because you were in a car accident, that's a different story. Unless you made sure to add something called "rental car reimbursement coverage," you're probably going to be stuck paying out of pocket for that rental.

Of course, you can still decline the damage waiver because your insurance will cover you while you're driving that rental and, if you use the right credit card, you may not even be on the hook for the deductible if you're unlucky enough to get in another accident while driving that rental car.

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Rewards credit cards can be a powerful way to get more value from your everyday spending. Each purchase can earn you points, miles or cash back that you can redeem for travel, statement credits, gift cards and more.

However, simply having a rewards credit card is not enough to unlock its full potential. The way you use your card and the strategy behind it determine how much value you actually receive from your rewards.

To help you get the most from your credit card, we’ve highlighted six common mistakes that could be holding back your rewards strategy and offer tips on how to avoid them.

Choosing the wrong rewards credit card

You can choose from many rewards credit cards designed for different types of customers. It’s important to carefully review the card’s rewards program to make sure you choose a card that’s right for you. If you don’t, you’ll find it difficult to earn decent rewards based on your regular spending.

As you shop around for a rewards card, carefully review how the rewards are structured and look for a program that aligns with your lifestyle. If you’re a frequent traveler who often purchases airfare and hotel stays, a travel rewards card can help you earn rewards on those travel-related purchases.

But if you rarely travel and instead use your card mostly for online shopping, groceries and gas, you’ll want to find a card that allows you to earn on those types of purchases.

Avoiding rewards credit cards with annual fees

Rewards credit cards are available with and without annual fees. It might seem logical to avoid cards with any annual fees, but in doing so you could miss out on some valuable rewards. Credit cards with annual fees often offer some of the most generous rewards programs, so you might miss out by avoiding these cards.

That said, it’s important to do some math to make sure a card with an annual fee makes sense, especially since some fees can cost $500 per year or more. Review your credit card statements for the past 12 months to see where you spend the most, then calculate what you would have earned on those purchases when using the rewards card.

If the rewards are close to or less than the fee, then the card may not be the right fit for you. But if you find that your rewards would be substantially more valuable than the annual fee, then it might make sense to apply for the card.

If you’ve had your card for a while and feel the fee is too high, you can always apply for a different card with a lower fee. Before you do, contact your current credit card provider. The provider may be willing to negotiate a lower annual fee to keep you as a customer.

Missing out on an initial bonus

Many rewards credit cards offer initial bonuses if you spend a certain amount of money within a designated period.

For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card offers new cardholders 75,000 bonus points if they spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months after they’ve opened their account.

These initial bonuses can be lucrative, so as part of your credit-card rewards strategy, avoid missing out on them. Plan out your spending and read all of the fine print to make sure that you’ll qualify for the bonus.

You’ll need to understand which purchases qualify toward the bonus so you can be sure that your usual spending will help you meet the bonus spending requirement on time.

Overspending with your card

The more you spend with your card, the more you’ll maximize your credit card rewards, but overspending will cost you, too. You’ll get the most value out of a rewards credit card if you pay off your balance in full each month, avoiding paying interest on your purchases.

But if you spend so much that you can’t pay that balance down, your interest payments could outweigh the rewards you earn. In the third quarter of 2024, U.S. consumers carried an average of $6,730 in credit card debt, according to Experian.

You could also be paying steep interest on your purchases. The average APR on a new credit card was 24.19% in October, LendingTree reports. Once you begin carrying a balance from month to month, those interest charges can add up quickly, making it harder to pay off your debt in full.

While you’re at it, make sure to avoid any purchases that require a credit card purchasing fee. Credit card purchase fees are often about 3% of the total purchase, and while retailers usually cover those fees, you could be responsible for them in certain instances.

If you pay bills with a credit card, like your utility bills, the vendor may add on a processing fee, sometimes called a convenience fee. Check with the vendor to see if there are any fees associated with credit card payments before deciding to put the charge on your card.

Letting your rewards pile up too long

Watching your credit card rewards accumulate can be satisfying, but don’t leave those rewards to sit for too long. Depending on your credit card, those rewards might expire after a certain amount of time or if your account remains inactive for a certain period.

Your rewards can also lose value over time. For example, if you’re accumulating points, your credit card issuer could change the value of your points whenever they choose, and you could lose out on value. To make the most of your credit card rewards, redeem them frequently to solidify their value.

Sticking with the same rewards credit card too long

Even if you initially chose a rewards credit card that was a good fit for your lifestyle and spending habits, chances are that your lifestyle will change over time. If you’ve had the same rewards credit card for five or 10 years, it may be time for a change.

Review your rewards program and consider whether you’re getting the best value for your spending. If you’ve been making your credit card payments on time, your credit score has probably increased, so you just might qualify for a new card with a better rewards program that will help you earn more on your everyday purchases.

How to make your rewards credit card work harder for you

A well-planned credit card rewards strategy can turn your everyday spending into meaningful perks, such as free flights or extra cash back.

To get the most from your rewards, choose the right card, use it wisely, and review it regularly to make sure it still fits your lifestyle. By avoiding common mistakes like missing bonuses, letting points expire, or keeping a card that no longer works for you, you can ensure your rewards deliver real value.

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It's nice to be in a strong relationship — not just in your personal life, but in your financial life, too.

Some banks and credit unions offer extra benefits on their credit cards to customers who have a broader banking or investment relationship with the institution. In some cases, you could earn hundreds of dollars in additional rewards each year.

Here’s how it works: Most credit card issuers also offer deposit accounts, and they may have investment accounts, too. Some of these institutions grant additional rewards or fee waivers on their credit cards to customers who also hold investment or deposit accounts.

In most cases, you must maintain a specified average monthly balance to qualify for the increased rewards. Or, with some issuers, certain credit cards are available only to applicants who hold a qualifying account with the card issuer or a partner.

The decision of where to hold your cash and investments depends on many other factors besides the potential to boost your rewards on a credit card.

But if one of these programs is available to you because of your existing status with a card issuer or one of its partners, it’s worth exploring whether you could be reaping the benefits.

Below, we’ve outlined the relationship programs from some well-known issuers.

Bank of America Preferred Rewards

One of the most long-standing and generous relationship bonuses is for Bank of America customers who are part of the bank’s Preferred Rewards program.

The program has four tiers, based on your combined average daily balance over three months in both Bank of America deposit accounts and Merrill investment accounts:

• Gold ($20,000 to less than $50,000)
• Platinum ($50,000 to less than $100,000)
• Platinum Honors ($100,000 to less than $1 million)
• Diamond Honors ($1 million or more)

Members of each tier receive increased rewards for their spending on eligible Bank of America credit cards. Those in the Gold tier get a 25% bonus on their spending rewards, those in the Platinum tier get a 50% bonus, and customers in the Platinum Honors and Diamond Honors tiers get a 75% bonus.

Most Bank of America personal and small-business credit cards are eligible, except for those that are co-branded with partners, such as the Alaska Airlines card. (Preferred Rewards customers enjoy other benefits, too, including waived or reduced fees on deposit accounts and lower interest rates on loans.

Thanks to the Preferred Rewards program, we deemed Bank of America a top choice for high-net-worth clients.)

Especially for those who qualify for the 75% bonus, the rewards can be exceptional. For example, the no-fee Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards card offers a standard 1.5% cash back on all purchases, which isn’t noteworthy.

But with the 75% bonus, you’ll earn 2.62% cash back, with no limits — a better rate on unlimited spending than you can get with other cards available from major issuers.

Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards, which also has no annual fee, offers a standard 3% cash back on a category of your choice (you select among categories such as gas, dining and travel) and 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs; the 3% and 2% rewards apply to the first $2,500 in combined spending in those categories each quarter.

You get an unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. With the 75% bonus, the cash-back rates rise to 5.25%, 3.5% and 1.75%, respectively.

Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite cardholders who qualify for the 75% bonus earn 3.5 points per dollar on travel and dining purchases and 2.62 points per dollar spent on all other purchases, compared with standard rates of 2 points and 1.5 points per dollar, respectively.

The points can be worth as much as 1.25 cents each toward airfare booked through Bank of America.

The card’s annual fee is $550, but it comes with a number of perks, including a credit of up to $300 annually for airline incidental fees (such as for baggage and seat upgrades), up to $150 annually for lifestyle conveniences (such as video-streaming services, food delivery, fitness subscriptions and ride-share services), and up to $120 to reimburse the application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

U.S. Bank Smartly Card

With U.S. Bank’s Smartly card, all cardholders earn an unlimited 2% cash back. Those who have a U.S. Bank Smartly Savings account plus qualifying balances in a U.S. Bank Smartly Checking or Safe Debit account, however, earn extra cash back on up to $10,000 in purchases each billing cycle. (After your spending surpasses that threshold, you earn the standard 2% rate.)

You get a total 2.5% cash back if your qualifying balance is between $10,000 and $49,999, 3% if your qualifying balance is between $50,000 and $99,999, and 4% if your qualifying balance is $100,000 or more.

If you hold at least $100,000 in eligible balances and spend $10,000 per month on the Smartly credit card, you could earn $4,800 in cash back each year.

The interest rate on the Smartly Checking account tops out at a negligible 0.005%. The Smartly Savings account offers a standard rate of 0.05%, but if you also have a Smartly Checking account, a Safe Debit account or the Smartly credit card, your savings can earn a more enticing yield.

By maintaining a combined balance of at least $100,000 in qualifying U.S. Bank deposit and investment accounts, for example, you could recently get a 3.5% yield with Smartly Savings.

PenFed Honors Advantage

PenFed Credit Union offers two credit cards with benefits for members of its Honors Advantage program. To be eligible for the program, you must maintain a qualifying Access America or Free Checking account or be an active duty, reserve, honorably discharged or retired member of the military.

Honors Advantage members who have the no-fee PenFed Power Cash Rewards card receive 2% cash back on all purchases, with no limits, instead of the standard 1.5%. And for those who have the PenFed Pathfinder Rewards card, PenFed waives the $95 annual fee.

This card offers 4 points per dollar on travel purchases and 1.5 points per dollar spent on all other purchases. Points are worth about 0.85 cent apiece if you exchange them for gift cards; if you use points to make hotel reservations, they’re worth a more attractive 1.25 cents each.

Other Pathfinder perks include auto-rental insurance coverage, trip-delay reimbursement, a credit of up to $120 to reimburse the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, complimentary access to airport lounges in the Priority Pass Select network and a credit of up to $100 annually for ancillary fees with 10 domestic airlines.

Citigold and Citigold Private Client

Citibank recently introduced the Citi Strata Elite card ($595 annual fee), and those who are members of the bank’s premium relationship program get extra benefits. If you qualify for Citigold, which requires a minimum combined average monthly balance of $200,000 in eligible linked deposit, retirement and investment accounts, you get a $145 annual credit on the card.

And Citigold Private Client customers, who must maintain $1 million or more in qualifying account balances, get a $595 credit the first year they have the card and $145 yearly thereafter. The bank offers the same annual credits to Citigold and Citigold Private Client customers who have the Citi/AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard, which has a $595 annual fee. (We recently named Citi one of the top banks for high-net-worth clients.)

Among Strata Elite’s perks are free airport-lounge access through a Priority Pass Select membership, four yearly passes to American Airlines Admirals Club lounges, $300 off a hotel stay of two nights or more booked through Citi Travel, and up to $120 in reimbursement for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.

The AAdvantage Executive World Elite card offers free access to Admirals Club lounges, a free checked bag on domestic American Airlines flights, and a credit of up to $120 for a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee.

Benefits Through Brokers

The Platinum Card from American Express exclusively for Charles Schwab. If you have an eligible investment account with Charles Schwab (including an IRA or a Schwab One brokerage account), you can get this version of the American Express Platinum card, which has a $695 annual fee. Besides the standard benefits that Amex Platinum offers (more on those below), the Schwab card comes with an annual bonus, depending on the amount of your Schwab holdings.

You’ll receive a $100 card statement credit if your qualifying Schwab holdings are $250,000 to less than $1 million, a $200 statement credit if your holdings are from $1 million up to $10 million, or a $1,000 credit if you have $10 million or more in your Schwab accounts.

Among the plentiful benefits for all holders of American Express Platinum are a $200 annual airline-fee credit, a $200 annual hotel credit, a $199 credit toward a CLEAR Plus membership (which provides expedited security screening at the airport), reimbursement for a Walmart+ membership (which provides free shipping from Walmart and other perks), $200 yearly in Uber Cash (for Uber rides and Uber Eats deliveries), and access to Priority Pass and American Express Centurion airport lounges, among other lounge networks.

Morgan Stanley Blue Cash Preferred American Express Card. Customers who have a brokerage account with Morgan Stanley or E*Trade can sign up for this card, which is a version of the standard Amex Blue Cash Preferred card. Brokerage customers get a $100 statement credit after they spend $15,000 a year on the card, which has a $95 annual fee (waived the first year).

Blue Cash Preferred provides an outstanding 6% cash back on select streaming subscriptions as well as on up to $6,000 spent yearly at the supermarket. It also offers 3% back for spending at gas stations and on transit (such as taxis, tolls and train fares) and 1% on other spending.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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Before I became editor of Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, I spent many years writing about credit card rewards, and it was one of my favorite topics to cover. I enjoyed tracking the newest offers from issuers and gauging whether various cards were worthy of consideration.

My time on the credit card beat also informed my own strategy as a rewards card user. I charge most purchases on a card that has no annual fee and offers 2% cash back on all spending. (And, practicing what we at Kiplinger preach, I don’t charge more on it than I can afford to pay off each month.)

My husband, Tom, is also on the account, and together, we earn hundreds of dollars in cash back each year, which we deposit into our checking account.

Otherwise, I put restaurant and travel purchases on a card that offers extra points on each dollar spent in those categories. When I’m ready to exchange the points for rewards, I check the redemption values to make sure I’m getting a healthy return.

Many cards offer varying point values depending on how you redeem the rewards, so it’s worth doing the math.

My advice: Aim to get a value of at least 1 cent per point. Or, in other words, each 100 points should be worth at least $1. American Express Membership Rewards points, for example, are worth a penny each if you use them to book flights through Amex Travel, but only 0.6 cents each if you exchange them for statement credits.

Although rewards rates drive most of my decisions on which card to use for a purchase, I consider the card’s additional benefits, too.

When buying electronics or appliances, for example, I often charge them to a card that offers an extended warranty, in case the item breaks down shortly after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.

Premium rewards credit cards

I keep a couple of premium travel cards in my wallet, too. Thanks to Tom’s status as an active-duty military member, he qualifies for a waiver of the annual fee on some credit cards, and the benefit extends to me as an authorized user on his accounts.

For us, taking advantage of the many perks premium cards offer while bypassing annual fees in the hundreds of dollars is a no-brainer. (After Tom retires from military service, however, we’ll have to assess whether the annual fee is worth paying.)

One of the best benefits has been complimentary entry into airport lounges. Along with offering access to lounge networks such as Escape and Priority Pass Select, some card issuers are opening their own lounges, too.

Chase, for example, has been expanding its network of Sapphire lounges. Over the summer, I visited the sleek, expansive lounge Chase recently opened at Philadelphia International Airport. I ordered a fresh bowl of noodles with vegetables, which a server delivered to my table restaurant-style, and my kids played arcade games and shuffleboard while we waited out a three-hour flight delay.

Free wine, beer and cocktails, shower rooms, and private rest pods are other amenities you’ll find at many lounges run by issuers such as Amex, Capital One and Chase.

Judging by the responses to our annual Readers’ Choice Awards, many of you use rewards cards, too. If you’d like to share your strategies to maximize rewards or highlight your favorite perks, feel free to drop me a line.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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When Stephanie Rogers needs to make a big purchase for Christmas or an upcoming trip, she turns to a convenient tool handily located at the checkout of nearly all online retailers these days: buy now, pay later plans.

Offered by companies such as Affirm, Afterpay, Klarna and PayPal, these financing services split the cost of purchases into equal installments over a few weeks, usually with no interest charges.

“It seemed like a no-brainer to try it,” says Rogers, 51, a medical retail worker in Troy, Mo. “I like to spread out my payments for cash flow purposes.”

Buy now, pay later plans have been popular among younger generations — Millennials and Gen Zers — for a while, but lately BNPL has been taking off among the over-50 crowd, too.

Afterpay says the number of orders it receives from older shoppers has been rising recently, and 13% of Baby Boomers and 28% of Gen Xers have used one of these plans, according to a 2025 survey from financial services company Motley Fool.

Higher earners have been adopting this payment option as well, with nearly one-third of those earning $100,000-plus now using BNPL, a recent Bankrate study found.

“The conventional wisdom was that young people without much money and without much credit were using BNPL,” says Ted Rossman, a senior industry analyst at Bankrate. “There’s still some of that, but BNPL has also moved upmarket.”

Buy now, pay later plans can be a useful way to get extra time to pay off purchases, especially expensive ones, without incurring interest.

Those are the top reasons consumers, especially older shoppers, cite for using the services, Bankrate found. Younger shoppers were more likely to also appreciate the easy credit-approval process.

But research shows that because the plans make the price of a purchase seem less painful, they lead many people to overspend — a big reason, along with late fees, that nearly 40% of users ultimately regret opting for the service, Motley Fool found.

With credit-scoring company FICO announcing this year it is creating models that will take BNPL payments into account and more BNPL services sending data to the credit-reporting companies, it’s especially important now to know exactly what you’re getting into before you click on this payment option.

How BNPL works

Think of a buy now, pay later service like an old-fashioned layaway plan in reverse. Instead of making payments and then taking the item home, you get your purchase right away, then pay off what you owe over time, with the total typically split into four equal interest-free installments.

You make the first payment when you check out, then a subsequent one every two weeks until the balance is paid off at the end of six weeks.

Many BNPL providers also offer the option of longer-term plans, often ranging from three to 24 months, for larger purchases.

Instead of weekly, payments are due monthly, typically with interest that can range from 0% to as high as 36%, depending on your credit and income, factored into the bill.

To apply, you select the BNPL option at the retailer’s online checkout, answer a few basic questions about yourself, and supply a debit or credit card number.

Within seconds, most people are approved; the industry rejected only 22% of applications in 2022, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau found. Some BNPL companies may conduct soft credit checks, which do not impact your credit score.

Until this year, using a buy now, pay later plan didn’t affect your credit score either, as long as you didn’t miss a payment or end up with your debt sent to collections. But the industry is starting to change that, with both Klarna and Affirm now sending more BNPL loan data to credit-reporting companies such as Experian and TransUnion.

Meanwhile, FICO is incorporating BNPL data into two of its new scoring models this fall.

The impact is likely to be minor, though. According to a yearlong FICO study, the change to most consumers’ credit scores was within 10 points, higher or lower, after adding BNPL data, similar to the impact of opening a new credit-card account.

Even with the new changes, it will likely be a while before BNPL usage affects your credit in a meaningful way, in part because it takes a while for lenders to adopt the newest scoring models, says Adam Rust, director of financial services at the Consumer Federation of America.

And when it does have an effect, he says, you’ll need to use the service a lot, not just for an occasional purchase, for your activity to really have an impact.

How to use BNPL wisely

Tempted to try out a buy now, pay later plan? Experts suggest these steps to take advantage of the service without it taking advantage of you.

Know your billing schedule

Each BNPL loan has a unique repayment schedule that begins on the day you make the purchase.

With most services, you must set up automatic payments — and regardless of whether it’s required, it’s a good idea to do that and sign up for bill reminders to ensure you don’t miss a due date.

Nearly one in three users has lost track of payments, Motley Fool reports. That can be a costly error, because many BNPL providers charge late fees, commonly around $10.

Fight the urge to splurge

When stores add a BNPL option, it not only makes us more likely to buy but also raises the average checkout total by 10%, according to research published in the Journal of Marketing.

By splitting the payment up into smaller chunks, BNPL makes you “perceive costs as more trivial,” the research found. The plans also spur more impulse purchases, so Rossman advises waiting a day or two before buying so you can reevaluate with fresh eyes.

Set ground rules

Some BNPL shoppers use the plans to finance food delivery, groceries, concert tickets, clothing and other discretionary items with a short shelf life. Don’t be one of them.

Instead, Rossman suggests, restrict your BNPL purchases to higher-ticket items you really need so “you can spread payments out and isolate them from the rest of your finances” — say, if your refrigerator breaks and you need a replacement or you want to manage the cost of pricey dental work.

Limit your purchases to items you’re sure you’ll keep, because 14% of buyers have had problems returning items and getting a full refund, Bankrate found.

The CFPB issued a rule last year requiring BNPL lenders to follow the same dispute-resolution standards as credit cards, but the bureau has pulled back from enforcing that rule. If you’re unsure, pay by credit card instead. “Credit cards have far better protections than BNPL,” says Rust.

Stick to one purchase at a time

Three in five BNPL users have taken out multiple loans simultaneously, with nearly one-fourth holding three or more at once, LendingTree found. That makes keeping on top of payments and avoiding late fees more difficult.

“BNPL is already clunky, requiring you to track several small, constant payments,” says Rust. “If you have multiple BNPL loans from different providers, you just amp that up.”

Consider alternatives

Many credit card issuers also offer their cardholders BNPL services, such as Plan it from American Express and Citi’s Flex Pay. These plans allow you to separate some larger purchases from your balance to be repaid through fixed installments for a fee — often equal to 7% to 10% interest, far less than you’d pay on a typical credit card revolving balance.

Or, if your credit score is 670 or better, you might apply for a credit card with a 0% introductory offer on purchases. Those offers typically last 12 to 24 months, such as ones recently from the Wells Fargo Reflect and U.S. Bank Shield cards.

“Credit cards can be like power tools — really useful or really dangerous, depending on how you use them,” says Rossman. “The same analogy applies to BNPL.”

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. We calculate a typical annual reward for each card, assuming $36,000 spent annually and less any annual fee. Interest rates, fees, rewards and other terms listed in this article are subject to change. Before you apply for a credit card, check its current terms and conditions with the issuer.

The American Express Platinum Card® has long been a favorite among frequent travelers and heavy spenders, thanks to its premium rewards and lifestyle perks. American Express recently refreshed the card, adding new benefits valued at up to $3,500 a year.

But those perks are paired with a fee increase; American Express increased the current annual fee of $695 to $895 per year. See Rates & Fees.

For some cardholders, the new and expanded perks make the fee increase worth it, but for others, the Platinum Card is no longer the great value it once was.

Breaking down the new benefits

The Platinum Card® includes new and expanded benefits across dining, travel, wellness and entertainment categories. Beginning September 18, 2025, cardholders will enjoy new benefits, including:

• Dining and Resy credits. Platinum Card® holders can earn up to $100 in statement credits each quarter (up to $400 annually) when they use their card at U.S. Resy restaurants or for other eligible Resy purchases. Cardholders also get access to Platinum Nights by Resy, which offers exclusive reservations at select in-demand restaurants. To take advantage, simply add your eligible card to your Resy profile and enroll to unlock Platinum Nights reservations near you.
• Expanded hotel credits and luxury travel perks. Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel® using the Platinum Card®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• Lifestyle and wellness benefits. The new perks include up to $120 in statement credits each year for auto-renewing Uber One memberships when paid with the Platinum Card® (enrollment required). Cardholders can also receive up to $300 in Lululemon credits annually (up to $75 per quarter) for eligible purchases made at U.S. Lululemon stores or online, excluding outlet locations. In addition, Platinum Card members who purchase an Oura Ring through ouraring.com using their card can earn up to $200 in statement credits each calendar year — though the credit applies only to the ring itself, not to subscription or membership fees.
• Digital entertainment credits. Cardholders can also receive numerous credits for digital entertainment subscriptions. Subscribers to Disney+, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Paramount+, Peacock, The Wall Street Journal, YouTube Premium and YouTube TV can receive up to $25 in statement credits each month when they use their Platinum Card to make eligible purchases.

Lounge access and status perks are still in place. American Express will be expanding its Centurion Lounge Network to include a Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Japan, and a Salt Lake City International Airport in Utah. Cardholders can access more than 1,550 airport lounges.

The math on $3,500 in perks

In total, the card offers up to $3,500 in annual perks. If you’re able to use the full amount, the higher annual fee could be worthwhile. But in reality, most cardholders will capture only a portion of that value.

For example, a casual spender might take advantage of the $300 Lululemon credit and, in their first year, the $200 Oura Ring credit. Add in the $155 Walmart+ benefit and a few digital entertainment credits, and their total value may just meet — or slightly exceed — the $895 fee. Still, it’s unlikely those perks will deliver significant value beyond the cost of the card.

By contrast, a frequent traveler could come out far ahead. They might use the $600 in hotel credits, the $120 Uber One benefit, and the $400 Resy dining credit, on top of earning 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels. Combine those with upgrades and Centurion Lounge access, and the Platinum Card’s value can easily outweigh its $895 price tag.

When evaluating the perks that you might get from the card, pay close attention to the requirements for each perk. For example, some credit card perks, like the digital entertainment credit, require you to enroll to receive the reward.

Other perks require quarterly use; the Resy credit is issued in up to $100 statement credits each quarter. The Lululemon credit is also issued quarterly when you make in-store purchases. You’ll need to read the fine print to make sure you’ll get the most value from the credit card perks.

Who comes out ahead

The American Express Platinum Card® offers the greatest value to cardholders who are frequent travelers, diners and lifestyle spenders. Individuals who have multiple streaming subscriptions, who frequently book flights and hotel stays and who shop at retailers like Walmart+ and Lululemon are best positioned to take advantage of the card’s perks.

Cardholders who aren’t large spenders or who don’t frequently travel will use fewer perks and may find it harder to justify the higher annual fee.

Our take on the new Platinum

The card's refresh delivers some appealing benefits, but they come at a cost. The Uber One, Resy and hotel credits are particularly appealing to travelers, while the digital entertainment and Lululemon credits are enticing lifestyle additions that many cardholders may be able to use.

That said, the Platinum Card® is a top-tier rewards credit card, and its fee increase is steep. Cardholders will see that the fee increase goes into effect at their next renewal date on or after January 2, 2026, for consumers. (The increase will take effect on or after December 2, 2025, for business cardholders.)

If you’re considering applying or renewing the Platinum Card, you’ll need to carefully consider how much value you’re likely to get from it, and whether that value outweighs the annual fee.

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Nearly one in four Americans don’t have an emergency fund, according to Bankrate. If you’re among those without enough cash on hand to cover an unexpected expense, you may be tempted to use a credit card cash advance as a quick solution. But you’ll pay for the convenience in high interest and fees.

A cash advance is a short-term loan from your card issuer, allowing you to borrow against your card’s credit limit, with no collateral required. You can typically get the cash at an ATM or a local bank branch. How much you can withdraw depends on your card issuer’s rules. Cash advances may be capped at a few hundred dollars or about 30% of your card’s credit limit.

You’ll pay an up-front fee, usually 
the greater of about $10 or 3% to 6% of the transaction amount. Interest accrues immediately; there’s no interest-free grace period, which most credit cards offer on standard purchases. And the cash-advance interest rate — often in the range of 25% to 30% — is usually higher than the rate that applies to purchases, says credit expert Gerri Detweiler.

Alternatives to a credit card cash advance

Not only do cash advances hit your wallet, they can also hurt your credit score. When you take out a cash advance, the unpaid balance counts toward your credit-utilization ratio — the percentage of available credit that you’re using on your credit card. If your utilization ratio rises because of the cash advance, your credit score may drop.

As an alternative to a cash advance, try asking your bank or credit union for a low-cost loan to help cover emergency costs, Detweiler suggests.

Another option: Open a credit card with a 0% introductory rate on purchases. The Wells Fargo Reflect card, for example, charges no interest for 21 months.

But if you take this route, be sure to pay off the balance before the 0% window closes. After that, you’ll likely owe double-digit interest on any remaining balance.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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If rising travel costs are holding you back, the right credit card could help. The best travel rewards credit cards feature many unique perks that allow you to save on travel costs, from booking flights to dining out.

Beyond savings, some cards can also upgrade your experience, offering late check-outs, resort credits and room upgrades when you book through their travel portals.

To show how much value these cards can deliver, we’ve broken down how much you could save on a $10,000 trip using two top travel rewards cards.

For spend categories, we kept things simple by breaking down costs into four categories:

• Flights: $3,000
• Hotel: $2,500
• Dining: $2,000
• Misc: $2,500

From there, we factored in special points, cash back and miles incentives for each spending category. We also included sign-up bonuses and annual travel credits where available, while subtracting each card’s annual fee to give a clearer picture of its true value.

With that in mind, let’s compare one luxury travel card and one lower-fee option to see how much each could save you on a $10,000 trip.

Platinum Card® from American Express 

Best for: Luxury travelers

Platinum Card® from American Express is one of our favorite cards because it offers many luxury travel perks to make up for its $895 annual fee. See rates and fees.

For starters, you might be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first six months of membership. Welcome offers vary, and you might not be eligible for an offer.

The conversion rate for this card is one point equals $0.01, meaning if you qualify for the 175,000 points, you'll earn up to $1,750 just for meeting this threshold, which your $10K trip would do. Here's a breakdown of what you would earn in each category:

In addition to these savings, you'll earn a $200 airline credit for booking eligible flights. Therefore, on a $10K trip, if you qualify for the highest intro bonus, you'll earn $1,750 for the bonus, $200 for the airline credit and cashback rewards of $320.

Subtract the annual fee of $895, and it leaves you a total savings of $1,375.

Bonus perk: This card earns you up to $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel® using the Platinum Card®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Best for: Regular travelers looking for elevated perks without the higher annual fees.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card works well for the seasoned traveler who's looking for a travel credit card with a lower annual fee. The card features an annual fee of $395, but also comes with plenty of cost-savings to help you lower your total trip costs.

The card offers a sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles when you spend $4,000 in the first three months of opening the card. This is a value of $750 at a conversion of one point equals $0.01. You'll also gain more savings for travel purchases through its generous perks:

Capital One also rewards Venture X cardholders with a $300 annual travel credit you can use on this vacation.

Breaking this down, you'll receive $750 for the introductory bonus, $300 for the annual travel credit and cashback incentives of $490 on travel expenses, giving you a savings of $1,540.

Once you subtract the annual fee of $395, you'll save $1,145 on your trip.

Bonus perk: Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary. This, coupled with your annual travel credit, offsets your annual fee.

Things to consider with travel credit cards

Before signing up for one of our top picks, there are a few things you should consider:

• Use wisely: Paying off your balance each month ensures you're maximizing your perks.
• You might not receive the best deal: Credit cards offer better perks when you book through their travel portals; however, they might not offer the best prices on bookings.
• Fees: If you travel overseas often, consider a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, as it can help you save significantly.
• Brand loyalty: Some travelers prefer a certain airline or hotel brand. Should this apply to you, consider a credit card with that company, as you can maximize travel perks much more easily.
• Consider travel habits: Examine how you travel and match your preferences to a card that maximizes value, such as Uber rides, car rentals, dining out and more.
• Is it worth it? For less frequent travelers, you might not use the perks enough to justify the annual fees imposed. If this applies to you, consider one of our best cash back credit cards that rewards you more for everyday purchases.

Overall, travel credit cards are expensive, but they come packed with valuable perks. As this example shows, both these cards can save you more than 10% on a $10,000 trip

In addition, it's important to match your travel needs to a card that maximizes your value. That way, you can enjoy the perks you want and save on future travel purchases.

As an independent publication dedicated to helping you make the most of your money, the article above is our view of the best deals and is not the opinion of any entity mentioned such as a card issuer, hotel, airline etc. Similarly, the content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of those entities. This article only reviews select credit cards. We may get compensation if you visit partner links on our site. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our website. However, our selection of products is made independently of our relationship to advertisers.

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It’s always a good time to get a good deal. But as tariffs take effect on some imported goods — and as the Trump administration continues to negotiate tariffs with other countries — you may be especially interested right now in how you can save money while you shop.

Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine has taken the time to assess how you can find deals this year on investments, groceries, electronics, clothing, cars and travel, as well as how to take advantage of credit card perks — with a special emphasis on finding deals for products and services most prone to rising prices as the trade war evolves. In this article, we look at deals on credit cards. (See below to find links to our other articles about deals.)

Many credit cards offer money-saving perks that go beyond cash back, points or miles. Check whether your cards offer any of these four benefits.

International roaming data

Outside the U.S., your smartphone’s data service may be reduced to dial-up speeds unless you pay exorbitant fees.

But holders of certain Visa credit cards can take advantage of a benefit from GigSky, which provides international data services and works in more than 175 countries.

Each year, Visa Signature cardholders receive a free 15-day plan that provides 1 gigabyte of data, plus 20% off other GigSky plan purchases.

Visa Infinite cardholders enjoy a complimentary 15-day, 3GB data plan yearly and 30% off all plan purchases.

Trip delay insurance

When the airlines are at fault for delays and cancellations, they may be responsible for providing you with food and accommodations — but you’ll likely wait in long lines to receive compensation.

And when carriers decide that the disruption is out of their control, you will almost always be left to absorb the additional costs.

But the trip delay insurance that many credit cards offer will cover up to $500 per passenger, per night, regardless of the reasons for the interruption, as long as you charged the flight to an eligible card.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ($395 annual fee), American Express Platinum Card® ($895) see rates and fees and United Club ($695) cards all offer trip delay insurance.

Better yet, the Chase Sapphire ($95) and Sapphire Reserve ($550) cards cover your flights, even if you paid for them using miles earned through Chase’s rewards program.

Auto rental insurance

When you rent a car, some credit cards provide insurance for theft and accidental damage, as long as you book the reservation with the card.

Popular cards with this perk include the American Express Platinum Card® ($895) and American Express® Gold Card ($350), see rates and fees, as well as the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card ($95) and Venture X.

Chase Sapphire Preferred and Reserve offer primary coverage, which supersedes coverage from your personal auto insurance policy.

Cell phone insurance

Certain credit cards — including many from American Express, Chase, Capital One and Wells Fargo — provide insurance for a lost or damaged cell phone if you pay your wireless bill with the card. Coverage excludes cosmetic damage and typically comes with a $50 deductible.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

For Platinum Card® cardholders: Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company, at no-additional-cost to the Card Member. Coverage is subject to certain terms, conditions and limitations, including limitations on the amount of coverage. This benefit provides secondary coverage. For more information about the coverage, please see the Guide to Benefits at americanexpress.com/TDTerms.

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A breach of online security happens in an instant. A misclicked link, a reply to a stranger’s message or a purchase on the wrong site. Uh oh. Another case of cyberfraud.

“Fraud happens to everyone, even the smartest people,” says Phillip Reed, an asset protection attorney in Kalamazoo, Mich. “The tactics have gotten so sophisticated.” The Federal Trade Commission says 2.6 million consumers were victims of fraud in 2024, with losses of over $12.5 billion, a 25% increase from the previous year.

New developments, such as artificial intelligence and cryptocurrencies, have made cybercrime easier and more profitable than ever. With a little preparation and knowledge, you can protect your money and identity.

1. Digital crime is costing people more

While consumers lost a record amount of money to fraud in 2024, the number of complaints remained roughly the same as in 2023. In other words, the average incident got more expensive.

“Today’s fraudsters are patient. They aren’t in a rush to get $100 from you. They’re waiting to get $100,000,” says Kimberly Sutherland, global head of fraud and identity at LexisNexis Risk Solutions.

Investment scams were the largest category of losses at $5.7 billion, while Imposter scams were the second worst category, at $2.95 billion. Someone could impersonate one of your friends or family members and request financial assistance. With AI, they can spoof voices over the phone. Online dating scams gain a victim’s trust online through what appears to be a dream relationship before asking for money.

Theft from online shopping occurs more frequently but is less expensive in terms of the per-incident loss, according to Sutherland.

2. Retirees have a target on their backs

People over 60 were the most likely age group to report internet crime to the FBI in 2023, and lost the most money. Thieves see this generation as an easier target.

“They didn’t grow up with this technology as kids,” says Reed. “It’s not that they aren’t paying attention, but it’s something they had to learn and are now facing new threats.” At the same time, retirees’ lifelong savings create a tempting opportunity for scammers.

If you have any doubts, before agreeing to buying or providing any important information, share your emails, texts and popup images with someone else — a relative or a friend who can help you determine if it's a scam.

3. Strong passwords are worth the effort

Strong passwords are a simple and effective security measure. “It’s like locking your front door at night,” says Reed.

Avoid short codes with easily guessable words, such as names, addresses and common phrases. Strong passwords are at least 12 characters long, use a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, and include numbers and symbols.

You should have different passwords for every account. And avoid writing passwords down in an easy-to-spot location, as the wrong person could peek while visiting.

If keeping track sounds like a headache, you could use software like Bitwarden and LastPass to generate and store randomized passwords for all your accounts.

Enabling two-factor authentication further secures accounts. You’ll need to verify any login through your smartphone with a call or text.

4. Be proactive with safety measures

Your phone, computer, internet browser, and other software frequently recommend updates. Stay on top of them, as these include the latest cybersecurity systems.

Check your bank accounts and credit card statements weekly for unusual activity. “Scams often start with small transactions first, so you don’t notice. Watch out for a 34-cent charge at somewhere you’ve never shopped,” says Amber Schiffert, a financial planner with TARA Wealth in San Diego. You also could set up account alerts to receive a text, email or in-app message for every transaction.

5. Watch out for imposters

Cyberthieves constantly try to impersonate legitimate services: a text message claiming that you owe money for unpaid tolls, a phone call pretending to be from your internet provider, a computer screen popup saying it needs to fix a virus, an email claiming to be from the IRS saying you owe money, the list goes on. Seventy-eight percent of people reported receiving mobile scams at least weekly, according to a 2025 survey from Malwarebytes, which sells anti-virus software.

Slow down and verify everything. Cybercriminals often insist that you must act fast — or the “deal” will pass you by or your credit score will suffer. If you receive a call, hang up and contact the organization directly. Avoid clicking on links in emails, and refrain from replying with private information. You may want to establish a family code word that you can use on the phone to verify identities in case of AI voice fraud.

6. Be wary of deals too good to be true

Cyberthieves create spoof websites that resemble the brand and appear to link to legitimate companies that aren’t. They try to collect your credit card number, cash and personal information. Before placing an order, double-check that you are on the correct retailer’s page.

The same applies to posts on social media and other online marketplaces for selling goods and services. “If you see someone selling Taylor Swift tickets on Facebook for $400 when the market value is $4,000, don’t fall for it,” says Reed, the attorney from Michigan.

7 Guard your data like cash

Your personal data can be used for identity theft. If someone asks for information to verify your account, push back and ask if it’s really needed, especially for something personal like your Social Security number.

Consider what you reveal on social media platforms. Things like your date of birth, your childhood hometown and pet names could be used to answer security questions to access your digital accounts. Thieves could also use that information to impersonate you. Considering making your social media accounts private, so only people you know see what you post.

8. How you pay online matters

Credit cards have fraud protection, backed up federal law. If you report fraudulent charges within 60 days of receiving your account statement, your liability is limited to $50.

Other digital payment methods, such as electronic checks and payment apps like Venmo, have much less fraud protection. You can try filing a formal dispute with your bank or payment app, but there is no guarantee of a refund. “Think of it like giving someone cash with these payment options. You better be sure,” says Sutherland from LexisNexis.

And if you send cryptocurrency, that’s likely irreversible given the hidden nature of these transactions. It’s no wonder that people reported losing more money to bank transfers and cryptocurrency transactions than all other payment methods combined in 2024.

9. React quickly to possible fraud

If you suspect a problem, contact the bank, credit card company or payment app immediately. “That first 72-hour window is so important. It gives them time to lock down your account,” says Reed. The sooner you act, the higher your chance of them stopping the fraudulent transaction before it goes through.

You should also change the passwords on any exposed accounts. If you provided personal information, especially your Social Security number, consider placing a credit report freeze with the three major rating agencies. “As long as you’re not trying to buy a home soon or apply for other new lines of credit, we recommend using a freeze. It’s better safe than sorry,” says Schiffert, the financial planner from San Diego.

10. Authorities want to know what happened

Report incidents of cybercrime to federal agencies through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center and the FTC.

These agencies could help you retrieve lost money and assets while taking steps to bring justice against the criminals. “People feel too embarrassed to report, but they shouldn’t. It’s how authorities and businesses learn what’s needed to protect others,” says Sutherland.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Retirement Report, our popular monthly periodical that covers key concerns of affluent older Americans who are retired or preparing for retirement. Subscribe for retirement advice that’s right on the money.

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Eighty percent of Americans are concerned about affordability of everyday living costs regardless of income level, according to consumer research from Equitable.

And that was before the stock market took a plunge and tariffs shot up, both of which could kickstart another period of high inflation.

With key purchases and even necessities increasingly out of reach, going into debt might seem likely.

It's incredibly common already: According to TransUnion's Q4 2024 Quarterly Credit Industry Insights Report, American households had an average of $263,923 in mortgage debt, $24,373 in auto loan debt, $6,580 in credit card debt and $11,607 in personal loan debt, not to mention student loans or medical debt.

The Kiplinger Building Wealth program handpicks financial advisers and business owners from around the world to share retirement, estate planning and tax strategies to preserve and grow your wealth. These experts, who never pay for inclusion on the site, include professional wealth managers, fiduciary financial planners, CPAs and lawyers. Most of them have certifications including CFP®, ChFC®, IAR, AIF®, CDFA® and more, and their stellar records can be checked through the SEC or FINRA.

The problem? This debt can spiral out of control as interest payments pile up, making loans more challenging to pay back and credit harder to access. After all, Fortune reports, nearly 1 in 5 Americans have maxed out their credit cards.

According to the New York Fed, almost two-thirds of credit cardholders carry debt month over month, paying an average of 23% in interest — meaning these purchases are ultimately far more expensive than the sticker price.

While it might seem like a tough time to manage debt, the reality is that this is a crucial moment to get it under control. In the long run, handling debt effectively offers financial freedom, flexibility and the ability to weather hard times and enjoy your hard-earned money.

Here's how to get started.

Step No. 1: Avoid unnecessary debt

Steering clear of unnecessary loans might seem obvious, and it may not feel like helpful advice when you're trying to manage your existing debt. But especially when times are tough, it's worth remembering that just because you can access a certain amount of credit doesn't mean you should.

Consider what you actually need vs where you can cut costs.

For example, if you're looking to buy a house in the next few months, you may hear lenders refer to the "30% rule," which recommends that your monthly housing payment should not exceed 30% of your gross monthly income.

If you make $10,000 a month before taxes, you might think this means your budget is $3,000 a month and look at property that fits that price range.

A safer approach, however, would be to set a smaller budget that meets your needs, even if it means not getting everything you may want.

Instead of searching with the maximum allowable budget, look at properties with monthly payments that equal just 20% of your net take-home pay (or about $1,500 in this example, assuming a $7,500 monthly income after taxes).

The extra cash you save by avoiding unnecessary debt will not only give you financial breathing room, but also can enable you to pay back other debts.

Step No. 2: Calculate with clarity

To get a handle on how to repay your debt, you need to know exactly what you owe and when.

Assemble specific information about your balances, the interest rates on your loans and the terms of said loans. Calculate how long it will take to pay off your loans at the minimum monthly amount and how much interest will be paid to the lender under this framework.

If you're able, try to restructure your debt. Work with your lenders to see if you can get a lower interest rate. You should also consider whether consolidating or refinancing your debt saves you interest payments over time.

Once you have this information in hand, prioritize:

• Mathematically, debt with the highest interest rate should be paid down first to minimize the overall amount you will pay in interest.
• Emotionally, you can also consider attacking the debt with the lowest balance first, so you have a quick win to sustain you.

Whichever route you choose, you should calculate how much you are able to put toward repayment every month and commit to that plan.

Step No. 3: Make payments and boost income

Once you've done the calculations and finalized your payment plans, the next part is easy (at least on paper): Pay back your debt.

If you can, look for opportunities to boost your income, too, be it through extra hours at work, side hustles or a part-time job. If you receive bonuses or gifts, resist the temptation to buy something you don't need.

Instead, put that amount toward repayment. And if you're really ready to go the extra mile to become debt-free, you can even consider downsizing your home (including by selling and moving to a cheaper rental) or downgrading your car.

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Putting even a little extra money toward your repayment efforts each month can make a big difference.

For example, if you have a $10,000 credit card balance with an 18% annual rate, it will take more than 15 years to pay down that amount (and you would pay nearly $19,800 in interest alone) if you paid $160 a month.

But if you paid an additional $50 a month? You would pay off that debt in half the time — a little over seven years — and would save about $12,000 in interest. It adds up.

Remember, whatever amount you pay, make sure it's at least enough to cover the interest.

All too often, people simply pay their card's minimum payment amount without realizing it might not be sufficient to cover the accrued interest. At that rate, they'll never pay off the balance.

Short-term pain, long-term gain

Paying down debt will require short-term sacrifices, and it can take an emotional toll. But when times get tough, just remember: You're securing a debt-free future and your financial freedom.

I promise it'll be worth it.

This article, which has been written by an outside source and is provided as a courtesy by Stephen B. Dunbar III, JD, CLU (AR Insurance Lic. #15714673), Executive Vice President of the Georgia Alabama Gulf Coast Branch of Equitable Advisors LLC, does not offer or constitute, and should not be relied upon, as financial, investment, debt management or legal advice. Equitable Advisors LLC and its affiliates do not make any representations as to the accuracy, completeness or appropriateness of any part of any content hyperlinked to from this article. Your unique needs, goals and circumstances require the individualized attention of your own tax, legal, debt management and financial professionals whose advice and services will prevail over any information provided in this article. Equitable Advisors LLC and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice or services. Stephen B. Dunbar III offers securities through Equitable Advisors LLC (NY, NY 212-314-4600), member FINRA, SIPC (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN), offers investment advisory products and services through Equitable Advisors LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser, and offers annuity and insurance products through Equitable Network LLC (Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California LLC). Financial professionals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly qualified. AGE-7957140.1(05/25)(exp.05/29)

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This article was written by and presents the views of our contributing adviser, not the Kiplinger editorial staff. You can check adviser records with the SEC or with FINRA.

Many changes are coming to the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card. Of note, Chase announced a 45% increase of the card’s annual fee, going from $550 to $795.

This is the largest annual fee increase on the card since 2016, per CNBC. However, to counter the higher fee, Chase said there will be more than $2,700 in annual benefits.

On top of this, the new fee won't go into effect right away. Thanks to the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosures Act of 2009, credit card companies have to give at least 45 days notice before employing new fees.

This means if you're an existing cardholder, the new fee won't kick in until October 26, which is when most of the new perks for you will start. The point boost redemptions begin on June 23.

If you're a new cardholder on or after June 23, you'll pay the higher annual fee, but have immediate access to all perks.

So what’s new with the card? And are the perks enough to justify the fee? We’ll break it down.

Chase Sapphire Reserve: What’s new?

New for the Chase Sapphire Reserve are elevated travel perks. Cardholders can earn up to eight times the points when booking hotels, flights, cruises, rental cars and activities through Chase Travel.

Also new, you can earn four times the points on airline or hotel purchases when booked directly. Speaking of hotel purchases, receive up to $500 cash back annually on hotel purchases booked through The Edit.

What’s The Edit? The Edit is Chase’s collection of premium hotels, where your points are worth up to double the value for redemption on stays or premium cabin flights booked through eligible airlines. Just keep in mind you’ll need a two-night minimum stay to qualify and any purchases made through The Edit don’t qualify for points.

Redemption for this program breaks down into two cycles. You can receive a statement credit of $250 for purchases made from January through June, and another $250 cash back in statement credits for purchases made the rest of the year.

Another new feature is complimentary IHG Platinum Elite status. With it, you receive:

• Reward stay discounts
• Up to 60% off stays
• Early check-in, when available
• You can roll over nights to next year
• A welcome gift
• Guaranteed room availability within 72 hours

Save on dining, streaming

Another new perk for cardholders is a $300 dining credit for purchases as part of the Chase Sapphire Reserve Exclusives Table Program. This program features 275 of the most sought-after restaurants in the country, from Charleston to San Francisco.

Redemption works similar to The Edit in that you’ll earn up to $150 in statement credits for purchases made from January through June, and up to another $150 for qualifying purchases for the rest of the year.

To use this incentive, you’ll need to sign up for an OpenTable account, which is a digital reservation platform. From there, add your Chase Sapphire Reserve card and find eligible restaurants.

Chase also partnered with Apple to give cardholders streaming perks. Starting on June 23, cardholders receive a free subscription to Apple Music and Apple TV Plus, a value of $250 annually.

Chase also added new incentives for entertainment and fitness. Earn up to $300 cash back on purchases made through StubHub or viagogo, with redemption broken down into $150 increments biannually.

Peloton users can work up a sweat and save in the process. Cardholders earn 10 times the points on hardware and accessory purchases, up to 50,000 points. And starting on June 23, you’ll receive up to $120 cash back annually on Peloton memberships.

Elevated spend perks

Cardholders charging $75,000 or more annually receive the following perks:

• Southwest A-list Status
• IHG One Rewards Diamond Elite Status
• $500 in Southwest Airlines credit when you book through Chase Travel
• A $250 credit to The Shops at Chase

Is the elevated fee worth it?

It depends on what your aims are for the card.

To demonstrate, if you’re an avid traveler, the $300 annual credit coupled with the $500 you can receive for booking hotels and flights through The Edit will offset the annual fee on its own. And keep in mind when you book hotels through The Edit, you receive other perks like a $100 resort credit, complimentary breakfast for two and room upgrades.

Therefore, the travel perks make it worth it if you use it enough. However, if you don’t travel often enough to make the annual fee justifiable, there are credit cards offering excellent cash back incentives on travel and other purchases without having to pay as much.

Of note is the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. It carries a much more affordable annual fee of $395, and you can earn 10 times the miles on hotel and rental car purchases made through Capital One Travel or five times the miles on flights and vacation rentals through Capital One Travel. You’ll also receive an unlimited double the miles on every purchase you make.

Therefore, while Chase's new card features offer many perks, there are other cards that give you many incentives, for far less of an annual fee.

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In an email to Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders this week and confirmed on the Capital One website, the card issuer announced that its airport lounge access rules – among the most generous of any travel rewards card – would be changing.

Beginning February 1, 2026, cardholders will no longer be able to bring guests into Capital One lounges or Priority Pass lounges for free. The credit card issuer is also taking away complimentary lounge access for authorized users added to your card.

While the primary cardholder can still kick back in Capital One’s popular lounges for free, you’re going to have to pay extra if you want your traveling companions to join you. The changes are sure to disappoint existing cardholders, but the new rules are still pretty generous compared to others. Here’s everything we know about the upcoming lounge restrictions and how you can adapt your travel plans next year.

Is Capital One Venture X lounge access going away?

Capital One Venture X cardholders will still be able to access airport lounges after February 1, 2026. The biggest difference is that any authorized users on your account will no longer enjoy the same complimentary access, and you won’t be able to bring in up to two free guests for free.

But your days of lounging with friends and family in a Capital One or Priority Pass lounge aren’t done. The card issuer said that cardholders can still bring guests in. It’ll just cost you $25 to $45 per person, depending on age and whether you’re visiting a Priority Pass lounge or one of Capital One’s own lounges. Though children under two still get in for free.

Those new guest fees are still cheaper than buying a single visit pass to the lounges, which normally costs $90 for visitors without a Venture X or Venture X Business credit card.

As for those authorized users sharing your account, they can keep their lounge privileges for an extra $125 per year. Authorized users who are currently enjoying their complimentary lounge access will see their Priority Pass Select membership expire on February 1, 2026, unless you opt into that additional $125 annual fee.

What should Capital One Venture X cardholders do before losing guest lounge access?

Even with these stricter rules, the Capital One Venture X credit card still has some of the most generous airport lounge access perks of any travel credit card. For example, travelers with the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express card just saw their Delta Sky Club access slashed to a handful of free visits per year – and they pay $50 per person for guests.

Still, losing free access is going to be a hit to cardholders and figuring out the best way forward will depend on how you use this particular perk right now. Here are a few things to consider as you brace for next year’s new rules:

• If you have additional authorized users who often travel without you, paying the $125 annual fee per user will be the most cost effective way to preserve their lounge privileges.
• If your authorized user typically only visits the lounge when traveling with you, it would be cheaper to pay the $25 to $45 guest fee if you visit the lounge fewer than three times per year.
• If you’re more likely to visit a Priority Pass lounge than a Capital One lounge, consider trading your Venture X for an alternative like the American Express Platinum card or the Chase Sapphire Reserve. Both include complimentary Priority Pass membership (along with access to their own branded lounges) and still allow you to bring up to two guests for free.

Bottom line

While the news is disappointing for existing cardholders, the Capital One Venture X credit card is still one of the best deals for travelers who love airport lounges. It has one of the lowest annual fees among credit cards that include unlimited access — especially for solo travelers who don’t often bring guests anyway.

But if you do visit airport lounges with guests regularly or share your perks with an authorized user, you’ll need to weigh the extra fees you’ll have to start paying against competing credit cards to see whether the Capital One Venture X still gets you the most value for what you’re paying in fees.

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In an air travel shakeup, two major airlines announced a new collaboration in May. Dubbed "Blue Sky," United and JetBlue are partnering up to give frequent fliers of either airline's loyalty program more ways to earn and use miles, along with more ways to enjoy the perks of any airline status you've earned.

Before it could be rolled out, however, Spirit Airlines urged the Department of Transportation (DOT) to block the deal, saying it "raises serious competition and public interest questions" in a complaint filed with DOT in June.

The complaint also noted the similarities between this partnership and the JetBlue-American Airlines partnership that the agency had blocked last year. Despite Spirit Airlines' concerns, DOT gave JetBlue and United the go-ahead to roll out this deal.

While the partnership is slated to offer a ton of perks and new ways to maximize your points, the features aren't all rolling out at once. In fact, most of the reciprocal benefits loyalty program members are expected to enjoy don't have an official launch date yet. The airlines said the timing on the rollout of these benefits will be announced later this year.

Now that the deal has passed regulatory review, here's what you can expect to roll out later this year or next year.

What we know about the United and JetBlue partnership

For customers, the biggest news coming out of the United and JetBlue partnership is the ability to earn or use points or miles on flights with either airline. This will significantly expand your access to award deals and give you the flexibility to earn more on a wider network of flights – all without having to deal with transfer fees.

But even without the loyalty program perks, the new partnership is set to bring new flight options to travelers. As part of the alliance, for example, JetBlue and United will share access to slots at JFK and Newark airports in the New York area.

The John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens was once a United hub, but the airline had to suspend its flights out of the major New York airport due to stiff post-pandemic competition from other carriers in late 2022. So this piece of the deal, which grants United up to seven round-trip flights out of JFK starting in 2027, is a big deal.

In exchange, JetBlue will have access to United's slots at Newark Liberty International Airport, allowing for up to eight round-trip flights out of the New Jersey airport.

Meanwhile, the deal will also see United's vast travel booking options merge into JetBlue's user-friendly Paisly platform, creating a hybrid travel booking portal that'll make it easier to plan and book your entire trip in one place.

Is United buying JetBlue?

No, United is not buying JetBlue, nor is JetBlue buying United.

Both airlines will remain independent, setting their own prices and managing their own schedules and networks. The two are simply collaborating with one another.

That independence is key to making this new alliance survive legal scrutiny. Anyone who remembers the now-defunct JetBlue and American alliance might remember that the partnership was dismantled by federal courts, which ruled that the terms of that alliance violated antitrust laws.

What the Blue Sky collaboration means for TrueBlue customers on United

If you're a JetBlue TrueBlue member, here are some of the perks you can eventually expect when you fly with United Airlines. (Note that there is no word yet on exactly when you'll be able to enjoy these perks on United flights.)

• The same priority check-in privileges your status grants you on JetBlue flights.
• The same priority security screening your TrueBlue Mosaic status grants you at airports.
• TrueBlue Mosaic 1 members board with Group 2 on United flights, while all other Mosaic levels board with Group 1.
• One free checked bag on United flights, and priority bag handling.
• The same eligibility to book preferred seats or upgrade to Economy Plus seats (United's equivalent to JetBlue's EvenMore seats) that you currently enjoy with your Mosaic status.

What the Blue Sky collaboration means for MileagePlus customers on JetBlue

If you're currently a United MileagePlus member, here's how some of your membership perks and privileges will translate to JetBlue flights under the new partnership. (Note that these perks might not be available to you on JetBlue bookings yet, but the airlines are planning to announce more concrete timing later this year.)

• The same priority check-in and priority security privileges your current MileagePlus Premier level grants you.
• Those with Premier Silver board with Group C on JetBlue flights while Premier Gold fliers board with Group B. If you have Premier Platinum or 1K status, you board with Group A on JetBlue.
• One free checked bag on JetBlue flights, and priority bag handling.
• The same eligibility to book preferred seats or upgrade to EvenMore seats (JetBlue’s equivalent to United’s Economy Plus seats) that you currently enjoy with your Mosaic status.

New Blue Sky perks rolling out for both JetBlue and United fliers

In addition to the ability to earn and use miles from either airline on either airline as well as the reciprocal perks for frequent fliers with status, Blue Sky will create a streamlined booking experience and new features for both United and JetBlue customers.

Here are a few highlighted in this week's announcement:

• You'll be able to see both United and JetBlue flight options when booking on either airline's website. That'll make it easy to compare options and find the best travel deals on your trip, although it does mean you should pay closer attention when booking if you have a plane preference.
• JetBlue's Paisly platform will host United's travel booking features, including all the hotels, vacation packages, rental car bookings and travel insurance options currently available on United's website. The move doesn't just consolidate the rival travel booking websites, but makes it easier for you to book. Currently, United's site is split into separate services for hotels, cars, cruises and vacation packages. Once it's migrated to Paisly, you'll be able to plan and book your entire trip in one platform.
• Business travelers may be able to enjoy the same terms (including any discounts) of a corporate program negotiated with one airline on flights operated by the other airline. That's especially exciting news now that both United and JetBlue are upgrading and expanding their first-class seating this year.

Can you merge your MileagePlus and TrueBlue points into one account?

No: While you will be able to redeem either balance at either airline, you won't be able to combine your existing accounts altogether.

That said, both loyalty programs do allow you to pool miles with family and friends in a joint account. So you will have the opportunity to earn your preferred points on an expanded range of flights – and then pool those with your spouse or traveling companions.

Which airline's points will you earn on bookings?

If you're a TrueBlue member booking on United, will you earn TrueBlue points or MileagePlus miles on the flight? If you're enrolled in both loyalty programs, how do you determine which program your points or miles will be credited to?

While no official announcement on these details is out yet, it's likely that it will work like other partnership agreements. That is, a MileagePlus member booking a flight on any other United partner would earn MileagePlus miles, not the partner's points.

For those enrolled in both programs, it'll likely come down to which loyalty program membership number you attach to the reservation. While you can't merge the accounts, that should still give you the flexibility to add to whichever balance you prefer, based on your goals.

Still, you'll need to wait on the airlines to provide more details on exactly how this will work before you can adjust your earnings strategy accordingly.

Can United Club members access JetBlue lounges and vice versa?

This is another detail we're still waiting on the airlines to clarify. However, it is doubtful.

Lounge operators have been cracking down on airport lounge access across the board in recent years, so a change that expands access seems unlikely. But, if you want to check out JetBlue's new airport lounges opening in New York and Boston, you can get complimentary access with the JetBlue Premier Card.

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A credit freeze can be a pivotal step to protect yourself from identity theft.

When you have a freeze on your credit reports, lenders can’t view them in response to an application for new credit — and that helps prevent criminals from opening credit card or loan accounts in your name.

But as long as a freeze is in place, you can’t access new lines of credit either.

(Note that you can still pull up your own credit reports when they’re frozen, and lenders can check your reports to manage accounts you already have with them. Additionally, certain other entities, such as employers who want to analyze a job candidate’s credit history or landlords who need to screen a potential tenant’s credit, may be able to access credit reports while a freeze is in place.)

If you’re preparing to shop for a loan or credit card, you can temporarily lift your credit freeze. Just as with placing a freeze, lifting it is free.

How to lift your credit freeze

If you need to lift your credit freeze, ask the lender or institution which credit report it checks. You may get away with removing the freeze at only one of the major credit-reporting companies rather than all three (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion).

If you expect to apply with multiple lenders, however — say, because you’re shopping for the lowest rate on a mortgage or auto loan — you may have to lift the freeze with two or more of the companies.

If you have online accounts with the credit-reporting companies, you can use them to thaw your freeze; log in to your Experian account, Equifax and TransUnion.

Alternatively, you can call Experian at 888-397-3742, Equifax at 888-298-0045 and TransUnion at 800-916-8800. You may need to verify your identity by answering security questions.

In response to online and phone requests, the credit-reporting companies must lift a freeze within one hour (usually, it happens right away).

If you want a written record of your request to lift a freeze, you can send the request by snail mail — but it will take more time than the other methods. (You’ll find mailing addresses for each of the credit-reporting companies here.)

You may have to include identifying documents, such as a copy of your driver’s license, Social Security card or a bill that lists your address, says Rod Griffin, senior director of public education and advocacy at Experian.

A credit-reporting company must lift the freeze within three business days of receiving your request.

When you temporarily lift a credit freeze, you can specify how long your credit report will be available to new lenders for review before the freeze automatically goes back into place. You could set the lift for a single day if you know the date the lender will perform a credit check.

Otherwise, you may want to arrange for the lift to last a week or two to make sure lenders have adequate time to review your report.

During the window that you don’t have a freeze enacted, you’re more vulnerable to identity theft in the form of criminals opening new credit accounts in your name. So you should be extra vigilant in monitoring your credit reports for signs of fraud.

You can get free weekly online reports from all three credit-reporting companies through AnnualCreditReport.com.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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About the Kiplinger Readers’ Choice Awards 2025
The Kiplinger Readers’ Choice Awards aim to recognize and celebrate the best products and services in the personal finance arena. We asked you, our Kiplinger community, to help us name the products and services you think have delivered excellent value in the past year.

The survey results, which we’re sharing here in our second annual Readers’ Choice Awards, offer valuable insight into which providers shine when it comes to your everyday interactions and experiences with them. Our Awards recognize excellence in everything from credit cards, banks and brokers to insurers, tax software and financial apps. For each category, we’ve listed an overall winner that earned the highest score. We’ve also highlighted other products and services that earned above-average scores for various criteria we asked readers to assess.

By voting, our community has helped us form our guide to the very best financial products. These are the products and companies that you think stand out from the crowd.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards: Travel Credit Cards

These cards typically offer extra points or miles on travel spending. And many heap on additional perks, such as statement credits for hotel, airline or dining purchases. Readers rated travel rewards cards on the strength of customer service, the likelihood they’d recommend the card to others and overall satisfaction.

OVERALL WINNER: Platinum Card® from American Express

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

Platinum Card® from American Express comes with a high annual fee of $895, see rates and fees. But one survey respondent says that for frequent travelers, the fee “absolutely pays for itself” thanks to the abundance of benefits the card provides.
You get up to $600 annual statement credits on select prepaid hotel bookings (which may require a minimum 2 night stay) through American Express Travel, up to $200 statement credits for incidental fees (such as for checked bags or in-flight refreshments) with one qualifying airline of your choice, $155 (up to $12.95 statement credits each month) for a Walmart+ membership subject to auto renewal, up to $240 statement credits for certain digital entertainment subscriptions (including select TV streaming and newspaper subscriptions). Cardholders also get complementary access to several airline lounges, including Amex’s own Centurion lounges and partner lounges in the Delta Sky Club® (subject to visit limitations), Plaza Premium and Priority Pass Select networks (terms apply and enrollment required for select benefits).

Cardholders earn five points per dollar on prepaid hotel bookings through AmexTravel.com and on airfare purchases. Other spending earns one point per dollar. Terms apply.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

One reader says that getting a Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (annual fee $95) was a “no-brainer” because of its impressive welcome bonus (60,000 points, worth roughly $750 in travel booked through Chase) for anyone who spends at least $5,000 in the first three months. You also get five points per dollar spent when you book reservations through Chase Travel℠, three points per dollar on dining, two points per dollar on other travel purchases, and one point per dollar on other spending.

You can transfer points you earn to partner airline loyalty programs, including Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards and United MileagePlus, and hotel programs, such as World of Hyatt, Marriott Bonvoy and IHG Rewards Club.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Outstanding for:

• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has a $395 annual fee, but you can take advantage of plenty of perks to offset it. Chief among them is the $300 annual travel credit you receive when you book travel through Capital One.

You’ll also earn 10,000 miles, worth $100 in travel bookings, each year on your account anniversary. Hotel stays and rental cars booked through Capital One earn 10 miles per dollar, and flights and vacation rentals reserved through Capital One earn five miles per dollar; other spending earns two miles per dollar.

One survey respondent commended Capital One for its service: “The company is responsive to inquiries. Their website is user-friendly and easy to use.”

American Express® Gold Card

Outstanding for:

• Customer service

Like other premium cards, the hefty annual cost for the American Express® Gold Card($325) see rates and fees, is offset by a host of benefits. Cardholders get four points per dollar on worldwide restaurant and U.S. supermarket purchases (yearly spending caps of $50,000 and $25,000, respectively, apply to those rewards then drops to one point per dollar), three points per dollar on flights booked through American Express Travel, two points per dollar on prepaid hotel and other eligible bookings through the AmexTravel.com portal, and one point per dollar on other spending.

You’ll also receive up to $120 in Uber Cash annually and up to $100 statement credits when you dine at U.S. Resy restaurants and there are no foreign transaction fees, see rates and fees. Terms apply and enrollment required for select benefits.

Capital One Venture Rewards

Outstanding for:

• Most recommended

With the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card($95), you earn five miles per dollar spent on vacation rentals, hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One and two miles per dollar for all other purchases.

Cardholders also receive a statement credit of up to $120 to reimburse the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck and automatic Five Star status with Hertz, allowing you to skip long lines at the rental counter.

Chase Sapphire Reserve Visa

Outstanding for:

• Customer service

One reader with high household spending on dining out and travel says Chase Sapphire Reserve® Credit Card ($550) “offers a ton of value.” It rewards cardholders with a $300 travel credit each year for bookings through Chase Travel and access to more than 1,300 airport lounges in the Priority Pass Select network.

Cardholders also get 10 points per dollar on hotel reservations and car rentals booked through Chase Travel, five points per dollar on flights reserved through the portal, three points per dollar on other travel spending and on dining and one point per dollar on other purchases.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards Categories

• Readers' Choice Full-Service Brokers
• Readers' Choice Wealth Management
• Readers' Choice Cash Back Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Airline Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice Hotel Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice National Banks
• Readers' Choice Internet Banks
• Readers' Choice Auto Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Homeowners Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Annuity Providers
• Readers' Choice Tax Software
• Readers' Choice Peer-to-Peer Payment Services

Kiplinger readers are a savvy bunch, especially when it comes to making smart choices with their money. So for the third year running, we asked you to rate financial providers based on your experiences with them. More than 2,700 readers completed our survey earlier this year, judging the products and services they use in 13 categories, from brokers and wealth managers to annuity providers, tax software, and home and auto insurance companies.

In the survey, respondents scored providers on certain criteria, such as their experience with the company’s customer service team, the likelihood they would recommend the product or service to others, and their overall satisfaction with it. Readers also had the option to leave comments about their experience, and we have shared some of them in the full category guides (remarks may be lightly edited for length and clarity).

For each category, we’ve listed an overall winner that earned the highest total score. We’ve also listed other products and services that earned above-average scores for the various criteria we asked readers to assess. Many thanks to all of you who participated in the survey.

Kiplinger Readers’ Choice Awards Categories

Best Full-Service Brokers

We asked readers to evaluate brokerage firms whose offerings run the gamut of services to customers, whether online, by phone, through in-person assistance at brick-and-mortar branches, or some combination. Readers rated the strength of their broker’s customer service, how likely they are to recommend the firm to others and their overall satisfaction with the broker.

The overall winner is Fidelity Investments.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best full-service brokers.

Best Wealth Management

These firms take a holistic look at your finances and offer advice tailored to you. Beyond assisting with investment strategies, advisers may help you manage credit and debt, savings, estate and tax planning, and more. Readers rated wealth managers based on the quality of financial advice they received, the trustworthiness of the advisers, how likely they would be to recommend the firm to others and their overall satisfaction with the wealth manager.

The overall winner is Fidelity Wealth Management.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best wealth management services.

Best Cash Back Credit Cards

Cash back cards usually offer simple terms and the opportunity to earn rewards on everyday purchases. We asked readers to rate cash back cards on the responsiveness of customer service, how likely they would be to recommend the card to others and their overall satisfaction with the card.

The overall winner is Fidelity Rewards Visa.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best cash back credit card.

Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards

These cards typically offer extra points or miles on travel spending. And many heap on additional perks, such as statement credits for hotel, airline or dining purchases. Readers rated travel rewards cards on the strength of customer service, the likelihood they’d recommend the card to others and overall satisfaction.

The overall winner is the Platinum Card® from American Express.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best travel rewards credit card.

Best Airline Card Rewards Programs

Airline credit cards reward brand loyalty. You’ll get miles or points for every flight you book with the airline, and with some programs, you can earn free airline tickets, access to airport lounges and other travel perks. We surveyed readers in three areas: strength of customer service, whether they would recommend the credit card program to others and overall satisfaction.

The overall winner is the Southwest Airlines credit card rewards program.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, airline credit card rewards programs.

Best Hotel Credit Cards Rewards Programs

As with airline card programs, hotel credit card programs reward you for being loyal to a particular hotel chain. The more you stay, the more perks you can receive, such as free nights, upgraded rooms, late checkouts and more. These hotel credit card programs earned top marks from our readers, who rated the programs on the strength of customer service, the likelihood they’d recommend the program to others and overall satisfaction.

The overall winner is the Marriott Bonvoy credit card program.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice 2025, Hotel Credit Card Rewards Programs.

Best National Banks

These large institutions have a presence in many states and offer branches where you can conduct transactions. We assessed readers’ overall satis­faction with their bank, their opinion of its customer service and the like­lihood they would recommend the bank to others.

The overall winner is Chase Bank.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best national banks.

Best Internet Banks

Internet banks often provide higher yields than their brick-and-mortar counterparts. The reason? Internet banks don’t have physical locations, so their overhead costs are lower, allowing them to pay out better rates. Survey respondents judged these institutions on customer service, how likely they would be to recommend the bank to others and how satisfied they are overall with the bank.

The overall winner is Charles Schwab Bank.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best internet banks.

Best Auto Insurance Companies

We asked readers to weigh in on auto insurance, judging their primary provider based on how competitive the rates are, their experience with filing claims and how likely they are to recommend the insurer to others. The following companies stood out from the rest in our survey.

The overall winner is USAA.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, auto insurance companies.

Best Homeowners Insurance Companies

Readers rated their homeowners insurance provider based on how competitive the rates are, how positive the experience is when filing a claim and how likely they would be to recommend the insurance company to others. Most of the providers that collected accolades for homeowners insurance are also honorees for their auto insurance services.

The overall winner is USAA.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, homeowners insurance companies.

Best Annuity Providers

Annuities are contracts that allow you to pay an amount up front or over time in exchange for the opportunity to create a steady stream of income in retirement; they may be fixed or variable, and they may provide income immediately or in the future. We asked readers to assess their annuity provider based on customer service, their overall satisfaction with the company and how likely they are to recommend it to others.

The overall winner is New York Life.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best annuity providers.

Best Tax Software

These programs guide taxpayers through the ins and outs of preparing and filing a tax return. The offerings vary depending on your return’s complexity and whether you want help from a tax pro. We asked readers to rate their preferred tax-filing software based on ease of use, how likely they are to recommend the service to others and overall satisfaction with it.

The overall winner is FreeTaxUSA.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, tax software.

Best Peer-To-Peer Payment Apps

Peer-to-peer payment apps allow you to digitally send and receive money with friends and family from your smartphone. We asked readers to evaluate their preferred payment app’s ease of use, their overall satisfaction with it and how likely they are to recommend it to others.

The overall winner is Apple Cash.

Read our full guide: Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards 2025, best peer-to-peer payment apps.

How Readers Chose Their Winners

Kiplinger readers were invited to take the Readers’ Choice Awards survey on Kiplinger.com between February 20 and March 21, 2025. The survey asked respondents to choose the financial product or service that they most frequently use in 13 categories: full-service brokerage firms, wealth managers, cash-back credit cards, travel rewards credit cards, airline credit card rewards programs, hotel credit card rewards programs, national banks, internet banks, auto insurers, homeowners insurers, annuity providers, tax software and peer-to-peer payment services.

We asked readers to rate each provider they selected on a scale of one to 10 based on a few criteria. In many categories, readers rated the strength of customer service, how likely they would be to recommend the product or service to others, and how satisfied they are overall with the provider.

In some categories, we included more-nuanced criteria. With wealth management firms, we asked respondents to rate the trustworthiness of a firm’s advisers and the quality of its financial advice. For peer-to-peer payment apps and tax software, respondents evaluated ease of use, and for auto and home insurance companies, readers judged the competitiveness of rates and strength of the claims experience.

We calculated an average (mean) score for each criterion with each provider. We also calculated an overall mean score for all providers for each criterion we asked readers to judge. We compared individual provider mean scores with the overall mean, and the three highest-scoring pro­viders that had a score above the overall mean won an “outstanding” accolade; in cases of a tie, more than three providers are named, and if fewer than three qualifying providers achieved an above-average score, only those providers are named “outstanding.”

In each category, providers are generally listed in descending order by the number of criteria for which they received the “outstanding” designation — so a product or company that is deemed “outstanding” in three areas, for example, is listed before a provider with one or two “outstanding” awards.

To choose an overall winner in each category, we added together the mean scores for each criterion rated for each product or service. The provider with the highest total score in each category took the prize for overall winner.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards Categories

• Readers' Choice Full-Service Brokers
• Readers' Choice Wealth Management
• Readers' Choice Cash Back Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Travel Rewards Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Airline Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice Hotel Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice National Banks
• Readers' Choice Internet Banks
• Readers' Choice Auto Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Homeowners Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Annuity Providers
• Readers' Choice Tax Software
• Readers' Choice Peer-to-Peer Payment Services

About the Kiplinger Readers’ Choice Awards 2025
The Kiplinger Readers’ Choice Awards aim to recognize and celebrate the best products and services in the personal finance arena. We asked you, our Kiplinger community, to help us name the products and services you think have delivered excellent value in the past year.

The survey results, which we’re sharing here in our second annual Readers’ Choice Awards, offer valuable insight into which providers shine when it comes to your everyday interactions and experiences with them. Our Awards recognize excellence in everything from credit cards, banks and brokers to insurers, tax software and financial apps. For each category, we’ve listed an overall winner that earned the highest score. We’ve also highlighted other products and services that earned above-average scores for various criteria we asked readers to assess.

By voting, our community has helped us form our guide to the very best financial products. These are the products and companies that you think stand out from the crowd.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards: Airline Card Rewards Programs

Airline credit cards reward brand loyalty. You’ll get miles or points for every flight you book with the airline, and with some programs, you can earn free airline tickets, access to airport lounges and other travel perks.

We surveyed readers in three areas: strength of customer service, whether they would recommend the credit card program to others and overall satisfaction.

OVERALL WINNER: Southwest Airlines Cards

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

Southwest offers a trio of consumer credit cards tied to its Rapid Rewards loyalty program. And now that Southwest is charging fees for checked luggage, cardholders get a new perk: one free checked bag for you and up to eight passengers.

The credit cards, issued by Chase, come with varying annual fees and rewards, including a heap of bonus points on each yearly cardmember anniversary: 3,000 points with the Rapid Rewards Plus card ($69 annual fee), 6,000 points with Premier ($99) and 7,500 points with Priority ($149).

The Priority card also comes with four upgraded boardings per year (when available) and a $75 Southwest travel credit, among other benefits. One reader says, “The points bonus for signing up was incredibly high.” (Recently, all three cards offered a 50,000-point bonus if you spend $1,000 in the first three months.) “Plus, getting a free upgrade to Business Select was nice.”

Delta Air Lines Cards

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

The Delta SkyMiles program features four credit cards issued by American Express: Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card , Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card and Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card.

One reader praises the program for offering “lots of features and benefits” that go beyond the miles you earn on purchases.

Benefits vary by card, with the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve card providing the most perks in exchange for the high annual fee ($650). Perks include a companion certificate (which allows an additional passenger to fly with you once per year on a round-trip flight within the U.S. and to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America, taxes and fees apply), access to Amex’s Centurion airport lounges and 15 visits to Delta Sky Club lounges each year. Rates and fees apply.

JetBlue Cards

Outstanding for:

• Overall satisfaction

JetBlue offers a few consumer credit cards, issued by Barclays: the JetBlue Card, JetBlue Plus ($99) and JetBlue Premier ($499). All the cards provide a 50% discount on in-flight refreshments, and the Plus and Premier cards offer a 5,000-point bonus on your yearly cardmember anniversary and one free checked bag for you and up to three other passengers.

With all JetBlue cards, you can pool points you earn with friends and family to get more travel perks.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards Categories

• Readers' Choice Full-Service Brokers
• Readers' Choice Wealth Management
• Readers' Choice Cash Back Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Travel Rewards Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Hotel Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice National Banks
• Readers' Choice Internet Banks
• Readers' Choice Auto Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Homeowners Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Annuity Providers
• Readers' Choice Tax Software
• Readers' Choice Peer-to-Peer Payment Services

About the Kiplinger Readers’ Choice Awards 2025
The Kiplinger Readers’ Choice Awards aim to recognize and celebrate the best products and services in the personal finance arena. We asked you, our Kiplinger community, to help us name the products and services you think have delivered excellent value in the past year.

The survey results, which we’re sharing here in our second annual Readers’ Choice Awards, offer valuable insight into which providers shine when it comes to your everyday interactions and experiences with them. Our Awards recognize excellence in everything from credit cards, banks and brokers to insurers, tax software and financial apps. For each category, we’ve listed an overall winner that earned the highest score. We’ve also highlighted other products and services that earned above-average scores for various criteria we asked readers to assess.

By voting, our community has helped us form our guide to the very best financial products. These are the products and companies that you think stand out from the crowd.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards: Hotel Credit Card Rewards Programs

As with airline card programs, hotel credit card programs reward you for being loyal to a particular hotel chain. The more you stay, the more perks you can receive, such as free nights, upgraded rooms, late checkouts and more.

These hotel credit card programs earned top marks from our readers, who rated the programs on the strength of customer service, the likelihood they’d recommend the program to others, and overall satisfaction.

OVERALL WINNER: Marriott Bonvoy cards

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

Marriott’s program features four credit cards. Two are issued by Chase Bank and two by American Express.

• The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card ($95, see rates and fees)
• The Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card ($0, see rates and fees)
• The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card ($250, see rates and fees )
• The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card($695 fee, see rates and fees)

One reader commends the program for offering quick and easy point redemptions. “The points are usable at any hotel almost immediately for an available room on the same day. Very, very flexible.” You can also transfer points to the frequent flier programs of 39 airlines, including American, Delta, Southwest and United.

The cards offer extra points when you stay at Marriott properties. And all but the Bold card come with a free night award each year, either after your account anniversary or after you spend a certain amount on the card.

World of Hyatt Credit Card

Outstanding for:

• Most recommended

Issued by Chase, the World of Hyatt card ($95) provides nine points per dollar spent on Hyatt stays, two points per dollar on travel and dining purchases, and one point per dollar on other spending.

Each year on your cardmember anniversary, you get a free night at an eligible Hyatt hotel or resort, and you can earn an extra free night by charging at least $15,000 annually on the card. Plus, cardholders get complimentary Wi-Fi and late checkout of 2 p.m. (when available) during Hyatt stays.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards Categories

• Readers' Choice Full-Service Brokers
• Readers' Choice Wealth Management
• Readers' Choice Cash Back Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Travel Rewards Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Airline Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice National Banks
• Readers' Choice Internet Banks
• Readers' Choice Auto Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Homeowners Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Annuity Providers
• Readers' Choice Tax Software
• Readers' Choice Peer-to-Peer Payment Services

About the Kiplinger Readers’ Choice Awards 2025
The Kiplinger Readers’ Choice Awards aim to recognize and celebrate the best products and services in the personal finance arena. We asked you, our Kiplinger community, to help us name the products and services you think have delivered excellent value in the past year.

The survey results, which we’re sharing here in our second annual Readers’ Choice Awards, offer valuable insight into which providers shine when it comes to your everyday interactions and experiences with them. Our Awards recognize excellence in everything from credit cards, banks and brokers to insurers, tax software and financial apps. For each category, we’ve listed an overall winner that earned the highest score. We’ve also highlighted other products and services that earned above-average scores for various criteria we asked readers to assess.

By voting, our community has helped us form our guide to the very best financial products. These are the cash back credit cards that you think stand out from the crowd.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards: Cash Back Rewards

Cash back cards usually offer simple terms and the opportunity to earn rewards on everyday purchases. We asked readers to rate cash back cards on the responsiveness of customer service, how likely they would be to recommend the card to others and their overall satisfaction with the card.

OVERALL WINNER: Fidelity Rewards Visa

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

The Fidelity Rewards Visa reigns as readers’ favorite cash back credit card for the third year in a row, and it’s easy to see why. The card features 2% back on all purchases as long as you deposit rewards into qualifying Fidelity accounts, such as a brokerage account, health savings account, 529 college-savings plan or a donor-advised fund.

“Nothing could be simpler,” says one reader. Another expressed appreciation for the ease of reaching a human in the card’s customer service department: “I can always get live help, not just a robot.”

Costco Anywhere Visa

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

The Costco Anywhere Visa proved popular with readers. One remarked, “Best card in my wallet. No rotating categories to keep track of. Just simple rewards on everyday items we all use all the time.”

Cardholders earn 5% cash back on gas at Costco stations and 4% on other gas purchases and electric-vehicle charging; the 5% and 4% rewards apply to the first $7,000 charged each year, and you get 1% thereafter.

You’ll also earn 3% on restaurant and travel purchases, including Costco Travel; 2% back on other Costco purchases; and 1% back on everything else.

Citi Double Cash Mastercard

Outstanding for:

• Most recommended
• Overall satisfaction

Citi Double Cash offers a total 2% cash back on all spending: 1% when you make a purchase and another 1% once you pay it off.

As one reader notes, “It's the easiest way to get straight cash back on every purchase as long as you pay it off every month. This is our everyday, go-to card for most purchases.”

USAA Preferred Cash Rewards Visa

Outstanding for:

• Customer service
• Most recommended

This card from USAA offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases, with no category restrictions. If you have USAA car insurance, you can receive up to $200 reimbursement on your deductible paid for a covered loss.

To qualify for this perk, you need to have made at least eight purchases in the previous month with the card. To open a USAA credit card, you must be an active-duty military member, a veteran, or an eligible family member such as a spouse or child.

Discover It

Outstanding for:

• Customer service

Readers appreciate Discover It particularly for the responsiveness of its customer service team. One remarked, “I've had very few issues over the years, and whenever a fraudulent charge or any other issue came up, it was always solved quickly and to my satisfaction.”

Discover It offers 5% cash back on up to $1,500 spent in categories that change each quarter, such as grocery stores, restaurants and gas stations; other purchases earn 1% back.

U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa

Outstanding for:

• Overall satisfaction

The U.S. Bank Cash+ card lets you choose two categories that earn up to 5% back on up to $2,000 spent quarterly. The categories you can choose from include streaming services, utilities, department or electronics stores, and gyms, among other options.

Earn 2% back on one other category of your choice — including dining, groceries, and gas and EV-charging stations — and 1% back on all other purchases.

Kiplinger Readers' Choice Awards Categories

• Readers' Choice Full-Service Brokers
• Readers' Choice Wealth Management
• Readers' Choice Travel Rewards Credit Cards
• Readers' Choice Airline Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice Hotel Credit Card Rewards Programs
• Readers' Choice National Banks
• Readers' Choice Internet Banks
• Readers' Choice Auto Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Homeowners Insurance Companies
• Readers' Choice Annuity Providers
• Readers' Choice Tax Software
• Readers' Choice Peer-to-Peer Payment Services

I might be what you call "cheap." When I first started using credit cards, I never signed up for ones with annual fees.

After all, why pay a bank to use their credit card? But over time, my approach changed once I realized how many perks cards with fees have to offer.

Case in point: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card comes with a $395 annual fee. That might seem steep on the surface, but I've found it pays itself back. Here's how you can use the card's travel perks to offset its annual fee.

1. Take advantage of the intro bonus

Many credit cards come with introductory bonuses, where you receive a bonus if you spend a certain amount. The bonuses can be in the form of cash back, points or miles. This is a great way to use the card on everyday purchases and be rewarded for expenses you were going to make anyway.

The Capital One Venture X card offers an excellent intro bonus. You'll earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

2. Maximizing miles redemption

The intro bonus is nice, but if you're like me, you might be wondering if you will get enough use out of the card to justify its annual fee after the first year.

This is where elevated travel rewards cards like Capital One Venture X really excel. The card allows you to earn an unlimited 10 miles per dollar for hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; five miles per dollar on vacation rentals and flights purchased through Capital One Travel and two miles per dollar for all other purchases.

So, what are miles worth? It depends on how you redeem them.

You can redeem miles for travel purchases through the Capital One portal at a rate of one cent per mile. That's not great on the surface, but if you travel regularly and book most aspects of your travel, especially flights and hotels through Capital One, these rewards can add up fast.

You can also use these miles at the same ratio to pay for previous travel booked the last 90 days through Capital One.

Further, you can transfer your Capital One miles to other participating airline and hotel programs, like Wyndham Rewards or Air Canada Aeroplan®, with most having a 1:1 ratio.

Here's an illustration of how transferring works: You earned the Venture X intro bonus of 75,000 miles and transferred them to your Wyndham Rewards account. You'll have 75,000 points to use, entitling you to two free nights at the Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen Adults Only All Inclusive in Mexico.

Wyndam offers free nights at resorts worldwide at 30,000 points per night. This illustration shows you can really elevate your trips the more you use your card.

Other redemption methods include using your miles for Amazon purchases, at a rate of 0.8 cents per mile. The less ideal option is to cash out your miles for a check or statement credit, as the rate of redemption is half a cent per mile.

Overall, the cash-back rewards are going to work best for avid travelers. However, if you only take a few trips per year, there are other ways to offset the annual fee.

3. Anniversary bonuses for the win

Capital One rewards its Venture X cardholders with two anniversary bonuses every year you have an active account.

The first is a $300 annual credit to use through Capital One Travel. The best news is there are no spending hoops to jump through. It's just a perk for having the card.

The other bonus is every year you have an active Venture X card, Capital One gives you 10,000 miles, starting on the first anniversary of opening the card. That's akin to $100 in travel credits every year.

Combined, these two anniversary bonuses give you $400 in travel credits, thus easily offsetting the $395 annual fee.

4. Elevated travel perks

The Capital One Venture X card elevates stays with an abundance of travel perks. And when you book through their Premier Collection, not only will you stay at exceptional hotels, you'll also earn perks that make the trip more enjoyable.

To demonstrate, say you want a weekend getaway at the Regent Santa Monica Beach. Using the Venture X card, you could book the hotel through Capital One Travel to earn 10 times the miles.

Given the hotel's average price is around $800 per night, you'll earn 8,000 points, or $80 in travel credits for every night you stay there. On top of that, you'll gain the following:

• A $100 experience credit you can use for eligible purchases during your stay
• Free breakfast for two
• Room upgrades when eligible
• Early check in and late check out
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Is the Capital One Venture X card worth its fee?

The Capital One Venture X card comes with tons of perks to elevate your travel. And therein lies the key: This card works best for avid travelers.

If you travel often, then the perks do offset the annual fee, provided you book your trips through Capital One Travel or transfer the miles to participating airlines or hotels.

Along with the generous miles for hotel and flight purchases, you'll earn anniversary bonuses that will continually offset your annual fee for as long as you have the card.

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Since his return to the White House, President Trump has launched an aggressive campaign to cut government costs and streamline operations. In the process, he’s revamping federal agencies that handle everything from tax returns and Social Security payments to consumer financial protections.

Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has instituted hiring freezes, mass layoffs and reorganizations at agencies such as the IRS, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Social Security Administration.

In addition, the president dismissed several Democratic agency commissioners and signed an executive order requiring government agencies to identify 10 existing rules, regulations or guidance documents to be repealed for every new one issued.

Supporters applaud the push for reduced bureaucracy. Critics are concerned about weakened consumer protections and DOGE’s potential access to sensitive consumer data, such as Social Security numbers.

Some of the latest initiatives await congressional approval or are tied up in court battles. Still, one thing is clear: It’s an ideal time to review your financial safeguards and get tax records and other paperwork organized, and remain informed about changes coming down the pike. Here’s what to do.

Be discerning when reviewing financial offers

Especially with the CFPB under fire, it’s critical to be your own consumer advocate. Scrutinize the fine print of any offers you receive, such as those for a mortgage or credit card.

Look up online reviews and ratings for lenders and other financial service providers, and seek a second opinion — from a trusted financial professional, for example — before making any major decisions.

Also, watch for signs of a scam, such as getting an offer that seems too good to be true or that comes with pressure to act quickly.

Stay on top of your taxes

If you need assistance from the IRS — say, to get help with fraudulent activity or adjust a payment plan — act right away. Reduced IRS staffing could lead to longer phone hold times and fewer options for in-person assistance.

Make sure all tax-related paperwork is in order so that if you need to resolve an issue, the process can go as smoothly as possible.

Keep a paper trail

In addition to saving tax-related documents, hold on to copies of other important financial records, such as service agreements, receipts and reference numbers, as well as copies of e-mail correspondence and online chats with businesses.

This material may serve as evidence that can help you win your case if you need to resolve issues such as a dispute involving a bill or financial statement or a rejection of a warranty or insurance claim.

Strengthen your financial protections

Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all financial accounts. Consider getting an IRS identity protection (IP) PIN. You’ll provide the PIN to verify your identity when you submit your tax return, which can prevent scammers from filing a return using your Social Security number.

Check your credit reports

You can access free Equifax, Experian and TransUnion credit reports each week at AnnualCreditReport.com. Review each report for errors and signs of fraud, such as a recently opened credit account that you don’t recognize.

Consider freezing your report at each credit-reporting company. A freeze helps to prevent scammers from opening credit accounts in your name.

Who's in your corner

Even with the upheaval at many government agencies, you can still reach out to some of them for help.

Recently, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau was still accepting complaints about problems with lenders, banks and other financial organizations, although changes in the CFPB’s staffing and structure may limit the bureau’s ability to address complaints.

You can also notify the Federal Trade Commission about unfair, shady and anticompetitive business practices, and you can go to the Securities and Exchange Commission for help with investment-related gripes and disputes.

These non-federal organizations can also lend a hand:

• The Better Business Bureau provides reviews, ratings and accreditation of businesses and charities. It also helps to resolve consumer complaints.
• Your state attorney general upholds consumer protection laws, and your state consumer protection office can help with complaints against businesses as well as investigate scams.
• A coalition of more than 250 nonprofit consumer organizations, the Consumer Federation of America looks out for consumer interests through research, education and advocacy.
• The nonprofit group Consumer Action uses education and advocacy to protect consumers in areas including credit, banking, privacy, insurance, health care and utilities. It provides a hotline consumers can call for help at 415-777-9635.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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Two of the largest credit card companies are planning to merge, and it could have big implications for your wallet.

Under the Capital One Discover merger, the Capital One Financial Corporation would acquire Discover Financial Services. On April 18, Capital One reported that the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency approved the merger, allowing the acquisition to proceed.

“This is an exciting moment for Capital One and Discover. We understand the critical importance of a strong and competitive banking system to our customers and our economy, and we appreciate the thoughtful and diligent engagement of our regulators as they thoroughly reviewed this deal over the past 14 months,” said Richard Fairbank, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Capital One.

“The combination of our two great companies will increase competition in payment networks, offer a wider range of products to our customers, increase our resources devoted to innovation and security and bring meaningful community benefits,” said Michael Shepherd, Interim CEO and President of Discover.

According to the press release, the merger is expected to close on May 18, and Capital One and Discover customer accounts will see no immediate changes.

For the time being, Capital One and Discover customers’ service will continue through their current platforms.

How the Capital One Discover merger could impact your interest rates

The Capital One Discover merger means that Capital One will become an even larger player in the credit card market than it already is.

Any time one company starts to dominate a market, it can lead to reduced competition, allowing that company to raise prices or implement policy changes with less concern of attracting or maintaining customers.

A coalition of 30 community, consumer, civil rights and public interest groups questioned the merger, and in a post on X, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) predicted that the merger will "increase fees and credit costs for American families."

The merger may impact Capital One and Discover customers’ credit card interest rates and fees, but no one can say for certain just what those impacts may be. It’s possible that if interest rates and fees increase, Capital One and Discover cardholders might use their cards less or cancel their cards in response.

It’s also possible that borrowers with good or excellent credit scores might seek out other credit card companies, leaving Capital One with a pool of higher-risk borrowers with lower credit scores.

To avoid this scenario, Capital One might only implement small rate or fee increases, or the company might choose not to increase rates at all.

How the Capital One Discover merger could affect your debit card rewards

Capital One has announced that it plans to transition its debit cards to the Discover debit card network after the merger. That’s significant because Discover is one of few lenders which offers a cash back debit card.

Typically, debit cards don’t come with rewards, but with Discover’s Cashback Debit card, you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month. The checking account is fee-free, and rewards never expire.

Since Discover is already offering rewards to debit cardholders, it’s possible that Capital One debit cardholders might also become eligible for new and additional rewards once the merger takes place.

How to prepare for the Capital One Discover merger

Before the merger takes place, it’s a good idea for Capital One and Discover cardholders to look up their credit card policy.

Print out a copy of your policy and review key details, like your card’s interest rate, fees and rewards.

Pay attention to any communication you receive from Capital One or Discover in the coming months and make sure that your contact information is up-to-date.

Chances are that cardholders will receive updates as the merger approaches and takes place, and these updates should include details about any important changes, including in interest rates, fees and rewards.

If you find that you don’t like the changes that are announced, remember that you can always shop around for a new credit card with a different company.

Focus on improving your credit score by making all of your payments on time and minimizing your credit usage. With a higher credit score, you’re more likely to qualify for a wider variety of cards, so you’ll have more options if you decide to choose a new credit card.

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As you read today’s article, imagine yourself in the shoes of my reader, Dr. Tom, who, like millions of us, has seen customer service vanish at just about every large bank in the country.

We begin with a question: When was the last time that you turned on the evening news and did not see a story about the problem of dangerous narcotics? Now, for a moment, imagine, instead of a warning not to use drugs, you see a commercial encouraging their use.

“Not happening,” you’re thinking. But that is exactly what we all are exposed to when we are urged to use powerful drugs that can ruin families if they’re not managed properly — credit cards.

Many of us have received a preapproved credit card in the mail with literature that says, “To activate, make a purchase of up to X dollars.”

Credit card issuers want us to take vacations we can’t afford and buy things we do not need and cannot pay for with cash.

And, ironically, the more credit card debt we have, the easier it is sometimes to get more credit cards.

Planning a trip and responded to a promotion

But what if you have no credit card debt? Perhaps you pay off monthly charges in full and have no other debt because long ago you said “no!” to taking on debt of any kind?

Dr. Tom has lived within his means and stays out of debt. Through no fault of his own, he created a problem for himself.

“Our family was planning a trip to England and Italy,” wrote retired West Coast dentist Dr. Tom in his email to me. “For over 30 years, I have had a credit card with a big bank and pay all charges in full every month. I applied for their airline-branded card that advertises 75,000 miles for signing up — that I could use for airfare — but was turned down!”

No credit history with the reporting bureaus

He related how he spoke with a customer service rep, who had his payment history on her computer screen but told him the credit bureaus had no record of him or his payments to the credit card company. “‘That’s why you were declined,’” he said she told him.

He escalated the issue to a supervisor and said, “Just look at my 30 years with you. I’ve never been late. You can see that. Besides, you could have reported my payment activity all these years to the credit bureaus, but obviously you didn’t. Come on, someone has to have an ounce of common sense. Please speak with the department that issues the airlines card, explain the mistake and send me the card.”

Dr. Tom took this as high as he could but was turned down each time. He concluded, “Nobody cares. Common sense is not a job requirement at this bank.”

A solution but not at all timely

But it was not over, not yet, because after receiving his email, I got him on the line and called the unit of the bank that handles customer complaints at the highest level and explained the problem. The customer service rep asked Dr. Tom, “Why don’t you have more credit?”

Translation: We can’t make money off of you with interest charges because you pay in full, so why should I help you?

However, he finally agreed to send Dr. Tom’s payment history to Experian. “They will send his credit rating back to us, which will allow us to issue the new credit card, but it will take a month or so.”

“A month or so?” I blurted. “Are you kidding? His European trip is in three weeks. You have the ability to pick up the phone, call your department that issues the airlines cards and tell them that Dr. Tom has a perfect payment history and to send him a new card. Come on, he is a 30-year customer. Do the right thing — fix the problem you guys created by not reporting his payment history to Experian.”

And then, exhibiting his utmost concern for the bank’s loyal customer, the customer service rep hung up.

When faced with arrogant, uncaring people who refuse to act reasonably and solve a problem their organization created, my next step is to contact their media department, because those are the people who can pull strings.

Please help my reader, your longtime customer

In early March, I emailed the media contact at the bank, summarized Dr. Tom’s situation, gave the names of the bank employees we had spoken with and concluded by saying: “Dr. Tom needs someone with common sense to speak with the issuing department and tell them, ‘Look at his history with us. He has been a good customer. Please give him that card in time to use it on the family’s trip to Europe.’”

A week later, Dr. Tom’s new credit card arrived in the mail.

The moral to this story: While most credit card companies report their customers’ payment histories to the credit bureaus, they are not legally required to do so.

How can you check to make sure your payment history is being fairly reported? You can get free copies of your credit reports from all three credit-reporting bureaus (Experian, TransUnion and Equifax) by going to AnnualCreditReport.com.

Dennis Beaver practices law in Bakersfield, Calif., and welcomes comments and questions from readers, which may be faxed to (661) 323-7993, or e-mailed to Lagombeaver1@gmail.com. And be sure to visit dennisbeaver.com.

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This article was written by and presents the views of our contributing adviser, not the Kiplinger editorial staff. You can check adviser records with the SEC or with FINRA.

Travel rewards credit cards come with many enticing perks. You can load up on points and miles on everyday purchases, then use them to score discount travel.

And tucked in many credit card programs are other perks. Some reward you with complimentary hotel upgrades, free attractions, even resort credits.

Moreover, if you enjoy the finer things in life like visiting art museums, this one perk from Capital One deserves a closer look.

Get 50% off The Cultivist membership

One of the lesser known perks for Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card cardholders is a discounted Enthusiast membership to The Cultivist.

What's The Cultivist? It's a membership club that entitles members and one guest to free art museum access to some of the best spots in the world.

Experience the classic works of the Renaissance in London at the Royal Academy. Or take in Amy Sherald: American Sublime at SFMOMA.

Of course, to receive a discounted membership, you'll need a Capital One Venture X card.

How does redemption work?

If you have a Venture X card, you can buy The Enthusiast membership for 50% off the regular price. The Enthusiast membership normally costs $440 annually, but cardholders receive a one-year subscription for only $220.

For the second year, it auto renews at $220. In essence, you're getting a two-year membership for the price of one year.

With the membership, you can visit more than 60 museums around the world for free. This works better if you plan to travel to larger U.S. cities like Chicago or San Francisco, or if you plan to go to Europe.

You can use The Cultivist app to book tickets ahead of time so you don't have to wait in longer lines. And your membership grants you other perks, such as in-person private hours, online guest talks and destination itineraries.

Which museums are included?

Some of the top destinations include:

• Musée Picasso: Paris, France
• Doge's Palace: Venice Italy
• Museum of Modern Art (MOMA): New York City, New York
• Los Angeles County Museum of Art: Los Angeles, California
• The Royal Academy of Arts: London, England

The Cultivist has a full list of eligible museums. That way, when you plan your next getaway, you have one or several attractions you can take advantage of, while saving time and money.

The bottom line

Travel is the gift of exploration. And if you have the right travel reward credit cards, you can save on unique experiences you'll remember for the rest of your life.

Capital One Venture X cardholders can use their card to score a 50% discount on The Cultivist membership. This entitles you and a guest to free tickets to some of the world's best art museums for less.

Just remember that many travel reward cards come with annual fees. So, using programs like this is a great way to offset some of that expense.

As an independent publication dedicated to helping you make the most of your money, the article above is our view of the best deals and is not the opinion of any entity mentioned such as a card issuer, hotel, airline etc. Similarly, the content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of those entities. This article only reviews select credit cards. We may get compensation if you visit partner links on our site. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our website. However, our selection of products is made independently of our relationship to advertisers.

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President Donald Trump announced a list of "reciprocal tariffs" impacting more than 180 countries.

Trump said the reasoning behind this was to correct trading imbalances and stabilize manufacturing jobs in the U.S. He also remarked these might not be the only tariffs to go into effect.

Some countries, such as Australia, Singapore and the United Kingdom, received a 10% baseline tariff on imported goods. Meanwhile, some of what Trump deems the "worst offender" countries received much higher tariffs.

China received a 34% tariff to go along with the 20% already imposed. Vietnam received a 46% tariff.

As you can imagine, this can have a sweeping impact on many of the goods you buy, such as clothes.

How Trump's tariffs impact clothing

The United States receives 97% of its apparel and shoes from imports, according to the American Apparel & Footwear Association.

As part of this, China is the second-largest exporter to the United States, sending $438.9 billion worth of goods in 2024. Keep in mind that many popular clothing brands, from Shein to Ralph Lauren, make their clothes there.

In addition, many clothing products sold at Target and Walmart are made in China, Bangladesh and Vietnam, all countries impacted by the tariffs.

Footwear prices could surge

For example, Vietnam is a producer of American brands such as Nike. Trump levied a 46% tariff on imports from Vietnam.

For Nike fans, this isn't ideal news. Half of their shoes are made in either Vietnam or China. Nike is already projecting double-digital sales declines.

Vietnam is also a leading producer of Ugg and Decker Brands, most notable for Hoka shoes. CNBC reports the company had 125 supply partners in China and 68 in Vietnam.

How do Trump's tariffs raise prices?

When governments impose tariffs, they're essentially taxing imported goods and forcing companies making these goods to pay more for them.

When companies incur these costs, they can absorb them or pass them on to the customers. In many cases, they might do a little of both.

To give you an example of how it works, Trump also recently imposed a 25% tax on all imported autos and parts. Goldman Sachs said Trump's tariffs on foreign cars could raise prices from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the model.

Therefore, it's a safe bet to prepare for your clothing and footwear to cost more, based on these indicators.

How to save when prices rise

Trump's tariffs come at an inopportune time. Consumer sentiment continues to dip, as the University of Michigan's Survey of Consumers reported a reading of 57.0, down 28.2% from this time last year. Inflation continues to be the main cause for concern.

With prices likely to rise on many of your favorite clothing brands, deals might be difficult to come by. That's why if you can hold off on buying until the dust settles, that would be the smartest bet.

However, if you need things in the meantime, I'm a firm proponent in using shopping resources to your advantage. Here are two ways to do this:

• Look for financing incentives: Most store credit cards come with high interest rates and minimal perks. One smart alternative is the Costco Anywhere Visa by Citi. Costco carries popular footwear from brands such as Ugg, Sketchers and more. Plus, with the credit card, you'll earn the following perks:

• Comparison shop: There are many apps that allow you to compare prices on the same products from multiple retailers in one place. One of my favorites is Flipp. It's free to download and includes circulars from major retailers.

The bottom line

Trump's extensive tariffs will send ripple effects through our supply chains. Since some of the countries that are hit the hardest are those making many of the clothes and shoes you buy, it's a safe bet prices will rise.

By using cashback cards and comparison shopping sites, you can find some ways to save, even with prices surging.

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Flexibility is a luxury that can be difficult to come by when you travel. From airline seats that might fit a toddler comfortably to early check-out times at hotels, trips usually require the traveler to find their own workarounds.

However, if you have the right travel rewards card, you place flexibility back in your favor. Some travel cards offer perks, such as flexible check-in and check-out times, free Wi-Fi, room upgrades and more, so it makes your trip feel more comfortable and less hurried.

One of the better travel programs offered is by American Express. Through their Fine Hotels + Resorts Program, eligible cardholders can book 49 new destinations around the world, bringing the total to more than 3,100 curated hotels in 114 countries. This marks the largest global footprint of any credit card issuer’s hotel program.

If you aren't aware of the perks, you're missing opportunities and not making use of what you get with the annual card fee.

Whether you already have one of the eligible cards and want to see what the program has, or you're considering getting one of the cards and want to see the value, it's helpful to see some examples to get the full picture.

We look at what the American Express Fine Hotels + Rewards Program has to offer, as well as what that looks like if you're traveling to Las Vegas, Sydney or Lisbon.

What the American Express FHR Program gives you

Through the FHR program, you receive some nifty perks:

• Early check-ins: When available, you'll be able to check into your hotel at noon, giving you time to drop your bags, explore your surroundings or take a well-deserved breather.
• Late check-outs: Eligible cardholders receive a guaranteed 4 pm checkout. This gives you more time to explore attractions or rest before going on a later flight.
• Breakfast for two: In a cozy mood when you wake up and don't want to leave the hotel? You don't have to, as you receive a complimentary breakfast.
• $100 credit: At select hotels, cardholders receive a $100 credit you can use for dining, spa and any other hotel services.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Stay connected on the go with complimentary Wi-Fi at select locations.

How does the FHR program work?

Start by visiting American Express's Hotel Finder. If you know where you'd like to go, enter the destination and see if they have eligible properties in the area.

What's unique about Amex's hotel finder is that it allows you to filter to find a hotel matching your desired travel experience. You can choose from ambience, such as family-friendly, historic, private stays and more.

Another option is experience. If you want a hotel with a casino, EV charging capabilities, golfing, even safari experiences, they have you covered.

Who is eligible for the Amex FHR Program?

To be eligible for the FHR program, you'll need one of the following cards to make the reservation:

• American Express Platinum Card®
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Here are some examples of where you can stay and how these benefits can enhance your trips.

Fontainebleau Las Vegas with Amex

The Fontainebleau is a newer Las Vegas hotel. Sitting at the edge of the Strip, it gives you breathtaking views of the glitz and glamour of the city without the hustle.

The hotel, like many in Vegas, has everything you need under one roof. From sipping cocktails at the luxurious Bleau Bar, to sampling fares from one of the 30 onsite restaurants, to enjoying live music, Fontainebleau provides as much excitement or relaxation as you want.

Using the FHR program, you'll qualify for a $100 food and beverage credit, noon check-in, late check out and room upgrades without the typical "Vegas handshake." When you use an American Express Platinum Card, you can save more.

Convent Square Lisbon Hotel with the Amex program

Situated in one of Europe's gems, the Convent Square Lisbon Hotel is the perfect nod to the historic while adding contemporary touches to give it its vibrant vibe.

The Memorable Tea Ritual is a notable event in which you can take part, and when you leave the beautiful premises, stroll on cobblestone streets and marvel at the breathtaking architecture at São Domingos Church and the Belém Tower.

If you're searching for something to do at night, the hotel doesn't disappoint, from live DJ sets to amazing meals at the Capítulo Restaurant. With the FHR program, you'll receive a $100 resort credit to spend on dining, spa and other resort activities.

Add in the early check-in, late check-out and room upgrades, and your Lisbon trip becomes even cozier.

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour for Amex cardholders

The Sofitel Sydney shows you magnificent views of one of Australia's most popular sites: Sydney Harbor.

What separates the Sofitel from many hotel brands I've stayed in is their attention to detail on the little things: From contemporary stylings with French accents to the Club Millésime, this hotel is a visual treat.

If you use the FHR program, you earn early check-in, free Wi-Fi, free breakfast for two, room upgrades (perhaps you'll strike it lucky and get a sought-after harbor view), a $100 resort credit and a late check-out. In turn, you'll receive perks that make your trip that much more luxurious, without any extra cost.

The bottom line on Amex's FHR program

The FHR program from American Express allows you to enjoy perks without jumping through hoops or doing the $20 handshake. You'll receive early check-ins, late check-outs, resort credits, free breakfast and optional room upgrades, all included.

It makes a special trip even more memorable. When you use the America Express Platinum card, you earn five times the membership points, giving you more leverage to book your next trip.

We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. We calculate a typical annual reward for each card, assuming $36,000 spent annually and less any annual fee. Interest rates, fees, rewards and other terms listed in this article are subject to change. Before you apply for a credit card, check its current terms and conditions with the issuer.

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United Airlines announced major changes to its United Club program, which gives members access to airport lounges. The United Club updates came alongside changes to the Chase and United credit cards.

With a United Club membership, you can get into lounges at airports when you travel. It used to cost $650 for an annual lounge membership, which would include access for guests. Now, though, the price is getting much steeper.

To get an individual United Club membership, you'll have to pony up $750 or 94,000 United miles per year. If you want to take two guests, that'll cost you $1,400 or 175,000 miles.

How does United Club membership work?

Going forward, United Club will have a tiered membership scheme.

Individual membership ($740 or 94,000 miles) gets the passholder unlimited entry to United Club locations. Note, however, that that doesn't mean access to Star Alliance and partner lounges.

All Access membership ($1,400 or 175,000 miles) gets two people access to United Club locations as well as Star Alliance and other partner lounges.

There are over 45 United Club locations, mostly within the U.S., and there is one in London Heathrow, Mexico City and Tokyo. The clubs have free food and internet access.

What are other ways to get airport lounge access?

Of course, United Clubs aren't the only lounges out there and there are plenty of ways to get into airport lounges these days.

For United Clubs themselves, you can get membership and access through the airlines' branded credit cards. You can also get into United lounges on a one-time basis with certain ticket classes.

Outside of United, you can buy day passes to certain airport lounges or invest in Priority Pass, which gets access to airport lounges with an annual membership fee starting at $99.

Airlines making changes

United's Club changes comes amid many other changes to what customers get at various airlines. Just last month, Delta's new Sky Club rules went into effect, which largely revoke or restrict ways to access their lounges.

And there have been further changes at United. I wrote earlier this year about giving up on airline status in part because United raised the thresholds you need to meet to qualify for its Premier tiers.

In the post-pandemic travel boom, airlines have been reigning in freebies and perks — even Southwest ditched its free checked bag policy. As CNBC reported, the latest moves from United seem aimed at getting flyers to sign up for the lucrative branded credit cards rather than just get club membership alone. While the Department of Transportation under President Joe Biden put frequent flyer programs under scrutiny in the hopes of protecting fairness for customers, what will happen now under the current administration is up in the air.

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We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. We calculate a typical annual reward for each card, assuming $36,000 spent annually and less any annual fee. Interest rates, fees, rewards and other terms listed in this article are subject to change. Before you apply for a credit card, check its current terms and conditions with the issuer.

If you're looking to save on your everyday expenses, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is an excellent option to consider. You may be eligible for as high as $200 cash back after spending $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 6 months.

Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer. Cash back is received as Reward Dollars, redeemable for statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout. Terms Apply.

On top of that, it's a great option if you want a credit card with no annual fees and features a ton of perks. Here's a glance at some of the many cost-saving benefits this card offers you.

The perfect dinner and a movie credit card

One of the better perks is for streamers. Get up to a $7 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com, or Stream.ESPN.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.

It brings the cost of a standalone service like Hulu with ads down from $11.99 to $4.99 plus taxes, making it an incredible deal.

On top of that, the card supports your cooking habits. Cardholders can receive a $15 monthly statement credit when you charge your Home Chef membership with your card. This gives you a $180 annual discount.

Home Chef is a meal delivery service. How it works is each week you'll choose from over 35 meals and 18 extras. The pre-portioned ingredients arrive with specific cooking instructions. It allows you to make fresh, healthier meals quickly.

Save on everyday items

The Blue Cash Everyday® Card helps you save on the things you do the most. Cardholders earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases, 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations, and on eligible purchases for each category on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%). Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.

To put it into perspective, you can save up to $180 in each of these categories at the 3% rate annually. That's a savings of up to $540 per year with no annual fees.

It's important to note there are some exclusions that apply. American Express doesn't consider super stores, meal delivery kit services or warehouse clubs as grocery stores, so purchases at any would only qualify for the 1% back.

Meanwhile, the retail cash back doesn't apply in every case. If you made an online purchase from a restaurant, grocery store, travel website or automotive dealer, it won't qualify for the 3% back. You can see other exclusions in the terms section.

Redemption options

Each point you earn equals one cent with no minimum redemption limits. You can take your points and use them as statement credit.

Or, you can use your cash back at Amazon.com for purchases. And if you're a Prime member, you can save even more with free shipping on millions of items.

The bottom line

The Blue Cash Everyday® Card is a fantastic card for everyday purchases. Streamers can earn a sizable discount on the Disney Bundle, while you can also earn 3% back at grocery stores, gas stations and U.S. online retailers.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The $6,000 cap on the 3% category will limit grocery shoppers with higher budgets. If this is the case, consider the American Express^® Gold Card, where you'll earn 4 points per dollar spent at supermarkets up to $25,000 annually.

Also, not every online purchase will qualify for the 3% back. Those obstacles aside, this is an excellent card that includes a lot of perks with no annual fee.

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Travelers who love premium amenities will be excited to learn that Delta is slated to expand its lounge network this year, adding three premium lounges and two more Delta Sky Clubs across the United States. But you’ll need to double check your credit card perks or SkyMiles loyalty program benefits before lining up to visit the new locations. The major U.S. carrier has been steadily cracking down on complimentary lounge access perks.

Last year, Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express cardholders lost their free visits altogether. As of this month, other American Express cardholders saw their previously unlimited access capped to a limited number of free visits each year. Meanwhile, Delta also revoked or restricted other ways of snagging a free Sky Club visit when you fly.

Despite the crackdown, travelers still have ways to access their favorite airport lounges this year. It’s just harder to visit them for free. Here’s everything you need to know about the new Delta Sky Club rules and how to get access to the airport lounges under the new restrictions.

What the Delta crackdown on complimentary lounge access means for travelers

Airport lounges are more popular than ever, and Delta’s Sky Clubs are among the best U.S. airport lounges around. Unfortunately, that’s exactly why the airline has started to chip away at complimentary access.

Delta’s premium airport lounges receive approximately 30.3 million visits per year across the airline’s 55 lounge locations. Of those, an estimated 40% are from travelers with a co-branded credit card that grants free lounge access.

So, what’s changed in Delta’s Sky Club policies? For those with the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card and the Platinum American Express Card, your previously unlimited access to Sky Clubs when flying Delta or one of its partners is now capped at just 15 visits and 10 visits per year, respectively.

Last year, the airline also eliminated lounge access for anyone with a basic economy ticket, regardless of credit card benefits, loyalty status or Sky Club membership. Those hoping to gain access by reaching Diamond or Platinum Medallion status will also find it harder to do so.

Sky Club membership is no longer one of the perks you can select for your Choice Benefit at the Platinum tier. Meanwhile, Diamond Medallion members will have to use two Choice Benefits to claim an individual membership or three to claim an executive membership.

How to visit Delta Sky Club under the new rules

Depending on which card you have, Delta’s new lounge access limits might still be generous enough to travel as usual. If you have the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express or Platinum American Express, the 10 or 15 free visits per year might be plenty for how often you travel through an airport with one of Delta’s lounges.

Other credit cards that still include some level of Sky Club access include Delta SkyMiles Trust Club Platinum and Gold Visa Cards as well as hard-to-get cards like the Delta SkyMiles Diners Club Card or the American Express Centurion Card.

Your credit card isn’t your only ticket into the Sky Club, though. If you no longer have access or you exceed your limit in a year, you can simply buy a single visit pass for $50. You can also pay for a Delta Sky Club membership. Prices start at $695 or 69,500 SkyMiles for one year of unlimited lounge access.

But be careful. Even with that membership, you can no longer visit the lounge if you’re flying on a basic economy ticket. You’ll also enjoy complimentary same-day lounge access when you buy a Delta One ticket or select business-class and first-class tickets.

Capital One cardholders also saw their lounge perks get slashed this year

Delta isn’t the only one tightening its rules on who can access its airport lounges. In January, travelers using the Capital One Venture Rewards or Capital One Spark Miles for Business cards lost the two free visits per year that used to come with owning either card.

While two free visits per year may not seem like a lot, these two cards were among the cheapest available that included lounge access. Both carry an annual fee of just $95 per year, while most travel rewards credit cards offering any kind of free lounge access come with annual fees as high as $695.

The bottom line

While you still have options for buying access to Delta Sky Club lounges, complimentary access is now rare for all travelers. If you live near or frequently visit a Delta hub city, it may be worth upgrading to a card with some free visits included or paying for an annual membership.

Otherwise, you might want to check out other travel rewards credit cards with lounge access, like the new JetBlue Premier Card launched this year. Other brands might not include Delta Sky Club access specifically, but you could find a more affordable way to access other airport lounges and discover a new favorite lounge network.

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We may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened. We may not cover every available offer. Our relationship with advertisers may impact how an offer is presented on our site but our editorial selection of products is made independently. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. We calculate a typical annual reward for each card, assuming $36,000 spent annually and less any annual fee. Interest rates, fees, rewards and other terms listed in this article are subject to change. Before you apply for a credit card, check its current terms and conditions with the issuer.

Grocery prices remain one of the most significant expenses in household budgets. Food costs can fluctuate for many reasons, including supply disruptions, labor shortages, transportation costs and changing consumer demand. Even when certain price spikes ease, grocery bills often remain elevated compared with pre-inflation levels.

Today, the average American household spends roughly $270 per week on groceries, or more than $1,000 per month, based on estimates that align with spending patterns reflected in U.S. Department of Agriculture food cost reports. Costs can vary widely depending on family size, dietary needs, location and shopping habits, but food continues to be a major and unavoidable expense for most households.

While shoppers can’t control broader food pricing trends, they can take steps to reduce how much they pay at checkout.

Use your card's cash back incentives

Some credit cards (listed below) offer cash back incentives on grocery or dining out purchases. By maximizing these to your advantage, you can earn a healthy cash back bonus that offsets some of the higher costs incurred.

The key is to make sure these rewards work for you. Start by shopping for a credit card that helps you save on everyday purchases, like groceries, dining out or food delivery services, like Uber Eats. And make sure to pay off your balance every month, or else the interest you pay negates some of the incentives these cards offer.

With this in mind, here are a few cards that can help you save on food costs:

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express helps you get 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in eligible purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) purchases and 1% cash back on other purchases.

Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.

You may be eligible for as high as $300 cash back after spending $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 6 months. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Cash back is received as Reward Dollars, redeemable for statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout. Terms Apply.

There is a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annually. Even still, with the savings you'll gain on groceries, it can outweigh the annual fee and still help you save.

See rates and fees.

American Express® Gold Card

If you plan to spend a lot at the grocery store, the American Express^® Gold Card is a great fit. You'll earn four points for every dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets, with a $25,000 cap annually. If you exceed that amount, your rewards after $25,000 are one point per dollar charged.

You'll also earn four points per dollar on restaurants worldwide, with an annual cap of $50,000. Once you reach the $50,000 threshold, the rewards revert to one point per dollar charged. The Points Guy notes the grocery and dining out benefits equal up to 8% cash back, based on their valuations.

And you can earn up to 100,000 Membership rewards points after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

The only drawback is there's an annual fee of $325. However, the higher caps on dining out and groceries makes this card a must-have for foodies.

See rates and fees.

The bottom line

Food prices continue to rise due to the bird flu, inflation and possible tariffs coming down the road. While you can't do much to control food costs on their own, having the right credit card can cushion some of those higher expenses.

These credit cards come with generous cash back incentives at supermarkets to help you save more on everyday goods. And you can save even more by meeting those intro bonuses.

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As an independent publication dedicated to helping you make the most of your money, the article above is our view of the best deals and is not the opinion of any entity mentioned such as a card issuer, hotel, airline etc. Similarly, the content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of those entities.

JetBlue kicked off the year by launching a new elite credit card with perks that rival some of the best travel rewards cards on the market today. The JetBlue Premier World Elite Mastercard offers cardholders exclusive perks that you can’t get with any of the airline’s other cards. That includes complimentary lounge access, a variety of statement credits and new ways to earn TrueBlue points.

As part of the launch, JetBlue is also offering a generous bonus offer of 70,000 TrueBlue points and five tiles to help you reach Mosaic elite status faster this year. To qualify for the intro offer, you need to spend $5,000 on your new card and pay the annual fee within the first 90 days.

With TrueBlue points valued at an estimated 1.3 cents each, that sign-up bonus is worth over $900. Since TrueBlue loyalty program members earn one tile for every $100 on JetBlue flights or vacation packages, that five tile bonus will put you $500 closer to Mosaic elite status.

While the perks and bonus offer on the new JetBlue Premier Card look great, it’s worth noting that the airline’s newest card also comes with a $499 annual fee. That’s $400 more than its JetBlue Plus and JetBlue Business cards. With that dramatically higher fee, travelers need to do the math to figure out if the perks are really worth it.

The new JetBlue Premier Card offers exciting new perks for travelers

The latest addition to JetBlue’s credit card lineup comes with a slate of brand-new perks not offered on any of the airline’s lower-tier cards. One of the most noteworthy new perks is airport lounge access. Premier cardholders can get Priority Pass Select, a program that grants access to over 1,500 airport lounges around the globe. You’ll also get access to JetBlue’s new airport lounges in New York and Boston when they open in late 2025 and early 2026.

Lounge access aside, the new JetBlue Premier Card also comes with a $120 statement credit on Global Entry or TSA PreCheck so cardholders can get to their favorite airport lounges faster. Travelers can also earn up to $300 in statement credits on Paisly purchases each year. The travel booking platform allows you to book cars, hotels, vacation packages and more. Cardholders earn $50 in credits for each purchase of $250 or more on the travel booking site. So you would need to make six separate qualifying purchases to maximize that benefit.

Earn TrueBlue Points faster with the JetBlue Premier Card

For travelers who care more about racking up points toward free flights than lounge access, the elite credit card offers more ways to earn and redeem TrueBlue points. In addition to the 6x points JetBlue Plus and Business card holders earn on JetBlue purchases, Premier cardholders will also earn 6x points on Paisly purchases. That means you can enjoy that 6x point bonus on your hotel booking, car rental and other trip-related purchases rather than just your flight.

With the new card, travelers also have the option to redeem TrueBlue points for statement credits, effectively turning them into a cashback rewards program. While that perk is available on the JetBlue Plus card, there’s a $1,000 credit cap per year. The Premier Card has no limit.

JetBlue’s $499 Premier card – a good deal or too expensive?

While the new perks are nice, the JetBlue Premier Card also carries a $499 annual fee. That seems exorbitant when you consider that the credit card one tier down only costs $99 per year. The JetBlue Plus Card has many overlapping benefits with the Premier Card, including a 5,000-point bonus every year, a free checked bag and the ability to earn 6x points on JetBlue purchases.

The key benefits exclusive to the Premier card include the $120 Global Entry credit, up to $300 Paisly credit, the Priority Pass Select membership and the ability to earn 6x points on Paisly purchases.

For travelers who would make use of those perks, the value would be more than enough to offset the $499 annual fee. However, for less frequent fliers or travelers who aren’t interested in lounge access, sticking with one of the lower-tier cards may make more sense.

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Over the holidays, my uncle-in-law asked my husband and I about our big year of travel: A honeymoon across Australia and New Zealand, then a few weeks jet-setting Europe to celebrate weddings and birthdays, as well as a handful of domestic trips.

He suggested we must have a lot of airlines points now, and I told him I qualified for Premier Silver at United.

"What does that get you?" he asked. "Free flights?"

"Nope," I told him, "mostly it gets me three extra inches of legroom."

I'm not a business traveler, but I typically take a handful of flights each year paid out of my own pocket. I often fly United because, more often than not, they have the flight routes I need. It took the biggest — and most expensive — year of travel of my life to reach the lowest tier of United's Premier status, and while I'm enjoying the free checked bag, I won't be chasing status in 2025. Here's my thinking.

United's Premier status is harder to get now

Now, don't get me wrong, I understand the value of status with an airline: I was raised by a father who mocked George Clooney's mileage aspirations in Up in the Air as low. But the reality is that while I travel what I consider a healthy amount, I'm not a consultant flying out to a client every week or booking a first-class ticket through my employer once a month. And for us lowly leisure travelers who merely fly abroad once or twice a year, I just don't know how realistic airline status is.

So, first and foremost, I won't be pursuing airline status, or really thinking about it much at all, because I know I won't be able to attain it.

Last fall, United announced changes to how you can qualify for its Premier tiers, largely make it harder to meet the thresholds. United uses a system of Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs) and Premier Qualifying Flights (PQFs) to track status (more on those definitions later). In 2024, to reach Silver, you needed 4,000 PQPs and 12 PQFs, or just 5,000 PQPs. In 2025, you need 5,000 PQPs and 15 PQFs, or just 6,000 PQPs.

Similar moves have happened on other airlines post-pandemic. Delta controversially increased its SkyMiles program in 2023; after overhauling its program in 2023, JetBlue is still tinkering with Mosaic.

So if I barely eked in last year, I just don't think I'll be passing the higher thresholds this year. This all brings me to my next point...

Airline status is too complicated to keep up with

PQP, PQF, Mosaic, Medallion, Companion Pass, give me a break. There's a lot of complication to airline status, miles and points.

For United's program, you need "Premier qualifying flights," literally legs of a flight. So to qualify for Silver this year, you need to take 15 (qualifying) flights. PQPs refer to "points," which is different from miles, and generally corresponds to how much actual money you spent on a flight — if you pay for an upgraded seat or fare, for example, you'll get more points. Last year, I spent a good amount of time tracking down my flights to make sure those on allied airlines got counted towards my United status.

Then add on top of that travel rewards credit card points. You can get a United credit card, changing up the equation as you can earn PQPs in different ways, and I can't tell you how many times I've tried to follow a TikTok travel rewards influencer (yes, they exist) explain how to transfer points from my Amex gold card to another Star Alliance airline to book a United flight.

Really, I get it, you can save money by going down these rabbit holes and taking one extra flight to reach the PQF you need and making sure you get a J-class ticket not an S-class ticket and etc., etc., etc. But life is so short, and I want to have time to read books and talk to my family and not spend hours researching before I book a flight and use up brain space memorizing airline status rules.

So my philosophy this year is that if it happens, it happens. I'll book the flights I want, and if they qualify as a PQF and get me to Silver again, great — but I'm not going to spend more time than that trying to track it all down.

Is airline loyalty worth it?

Having loyalty to an airline can give you perks, but it also means you're limited in your flight choices. The Wall Street Journal recently reported on people giving up on chasing airline loyalty programs. One flier told the reporter he "finds it increasingly hard to justify the often higher cost of flying with a preferred carrier in the name of maintaining status."

That's something I can relate to. Living in New York City, I'm surrounded by airline options, so when I look for flights, I can see many different carrier options. If I were to always book the same airline for the sake of status, I might end up losing money in the long-run.

Let's say I book a United flight that's $250 more expensive than an American Airlines flight so I can maintain Silver and, with it, my free checked bag and extra-legroom seat. But maybe I don't need to check a bag for a weekend trip and the seat upgrade on American would be $50. Did I really save by sticking with the brand?

So this year, when I saw the extra-legroom fare for a Delta flight was less expensive than its United economy counterpart, I went ahead and booked it without worrying about my United status.

The bottom line for me on chasing airline status

If you naturally travel a ton, attaining airline status is easier, and using it is a blessing. Seat upgrades, checked bags, lounge access, early boarding and so on are all very nice and make traveling that much easier, more comfortable and potentially less costly.

I've written before about Clear vs TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry and how I let my Clear membership lapse because the lines at airports were getting too long. It was a similar calculation: Yes, I understand getting to the front of a TSA line is valuable, but if my experience was that it didn't always get me there faster and it came with a price-tag despite discounts from airline memberships and credit cards, I accepted that it's not worth it to me.

I definitely think having loyalty accounts with airlines is a good idea as you can rack up miles that can be redeemed and sometimes get better fares. Likewise, loyalty accounts are good to keep around for car rental companies like Enterprise, hotel companies like IHG, and even Amtrak.

Similarly, I'll use my credit card rewards points (and, indeed, I learned how to transfer them to airlines, it's really not that hard) and, if it makes sense, maybe someday I'll open a credit card with an airline rather than working with a broad Amex Gold or Chase Sapphire.

But if it's going to be a hassle to reach loyalty status levels, do you really travel enough for it to be worth it? Personally, I'm not going to sweat it.

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