Modern Insights on Credit Cards
Discover the different types of credit cards and their benefits.
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Annual Fee & Authorized User Fee – American Express Platinum
Want to know more about the annual fee for The Platinum Card®? Here’s an overview, plus a look at the Card’s abundance of travel and lifestyle credits, perks, and services.
How Much Are American Express Membership Rewards® Points Worth?
American Express Membership Rewards points values differ depending on how and where you redeem them. Here’s what points are worth when redeemed in different ways.
How American Express Purchase Protection Works
Amex Purchase Protection is a Card benefit that covers items stolen or damaged. Learn more about using your Card's purchase protection.
WHAT'S NEW
Tipping with a credit card is fast and easy. Learn how to tip with a card, plus see how to easily calculate and adjust tips when paying by card.
A Complete Guide to Dining with the Amex Gold Card
With over $400 annually in benefits value across Resy, Uber, and more – the American Express® Gold Card can help you maximize your love of dining. Here’s how.
The Different Types of American Express Hilton Credit Cards
See how an American Express Hilton Credit Card could help you gain Hilton Honors™ elite status, earn Hilton Honors Bonus Points, and unlock other exciting benefits.
ALL CREDIT CARD BENEFITS ARTICLES
Tipping with a credit card is fast and easy. Learn how to tip with a card, plus see how to easily calculate and adjust tips when paying by card.
American Express Membership Rewards points values differ depending on how and where you redeem them. Here’s what points are worth when redeemed in different ways.
Amex Purchase Protection is a Card benefit that covers items stolen or damaged. Learn more about using your Card's purchase protection.
While you may be able to rent a car without a credit card, this will depend on the car rental company’s policies, and certain limitations may apply.
With over $400 annually in benefits value across Resy, Uber, and more – the American Express® Gold Card can help you maximize your love of dining. Here’s how.
Digital wallets offer convenience, allowing you to make purchases using your phone. This article explores the benefits of digital wallets and how they work.
An authorized user is a secondary account holder added to a credit card account by the primary cardholder but isn't responsible for payments. Learn more in detail.
See how an American Express Hilton Credit Card could help you gain Hilton Honors™ elite status, earn Hilton Honors Bonus Points, and unlock other exciting benefits.
You may not need to pay for TSA PreCheck® for minors if they are accompanied by an enrolled parent or guardian and on the same reservation. Some restrictions apply.
Charge cards typically require you to pay your balance in full each month, while credit cards allow you to make the minimum payment, or more, at the end of the month.
You can save some money each month by maximizing credit card rewards and perks. Learn how cash back, partner offers, and other incentives can help.
Comparing credit cards is usually the first step to getting a new card. Amex makes it easy to compare Cards so you can choose the right one for your lifestyle.
Wondering how to get cash from a credit card? Learn how to use a credit card in an ATM, along with some important considerations you’ll want to keep in mind.
Unlock access to select airport lounges with Priority Pass™ Select, available with the American Express Platinum Card® as part of the Global Lounge Collection.
You can save some money each month by maximizing credit card rewards and perks. Learn how cash back, partner offers, and other incentives can help.
American Express offers three cash back credit cards. Explore each card’s unique benefits, from cash back percentages to welcome offers and more.
Want to save on Delta baggage fees? Card Members can check their first bag free when using their eligible co-branded American Express Card to book a flight with Delta.
Credit card rental car insurance can help you cover costs in the event your rental car is damaged or stolen. Here’s how it works and what it covers.
The American Express Green Card is available exclusively at Amex. Here’s how to get it – plus a rundown of its rewarding travel and dining benefits.
Learn how Delta SkyMiles® American Express Card benefits can maximize every moment of your travel, from miles-boosting welcome bonuses to free checked bags and more.
Credit cards you can use instantly after approval offer new digital wallet options for safe and convenient mobile payments online and in-store. Here’s how they work.
The Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts Program offers eligible Card Members a variety of exclusive perks and benefits at over 1,100 lavish properties worldwide.
Buy now, pay later with Plan It, an Amex Card feature that helps give you more control by letting you split up large purchases into monthly installments with a fixed fee.
Explore the world of online shopping rewards and cash back programs. Learn how to earn money, discounts, and rewards while shopping online.
Discover the in and out of purchasing gift cards with a credit card. Read and learn to navigate the process for a smooth experience when buying gift cards.
The Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex Card offers various airline benefits – from earning miles to complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club – to help unlock great travel experiences.
The American Express Membership Rewards program gives Card Members flexible ways to earn points on eligible purchases, plus a variety of redemption options.
American Express helps protect you from credit card fraud with its advanced fraud protection methods. Here are a few simple steps to keep you safe and alert.
The allure of the American Express® Gold Card’s Rose Gold option goes beyond its many benefits, points-earning potential, or travel and dining credits
The reimagined Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express provides benefits to help you make the most out of the everyday essentials that move life forward.
Amex Purchase Protection is a Card benefit that covers items stolen or damaged. Learn more about using your Card's purchase protection.
What causes credit card annual percentage rate (APR) changes? Anything from a shifting economy to late payments or changes in your credit score can trigger an APR to rise or fall.
What is global entry? Where to apply? Read to know how credit cards offer free global entry and additional perks offered by credit cards.
The Platinum Card® from American Express helps keep you inspired every day with its suite of elevated lifestyle benefits such as the $240 Digital Entertainment Credit, Global Dining Access by Resy, $200 Uber Cash, and more.
Used responsibly, 0% intro APR credit cards can be a great source of inexpensive borrowing and can add to your financial flexibility. But it pays to read the fine print.
The credit card landscape has changed in terms of technology, trends, reward offerings, and how people are using their cards. See what’s happening today.
Even if you have dental insurance, you can still face out-of-pocket costs. Paying for dental care with a credit card can help, but it’s not always the best idea.
To find the best rewards credit card for you, map your lifestyle, spending habits, and credit score against the benefits of rewards credit cards out there.
Cash back credit cards let you earn cash back in different ways for eligible purchases. Learn how you can earn the most cash with your cash back credit card.
Want to know how to use credit cards to increase your financial flexibility? Here’s how one credit card user has done it over the years.
Amex Gold rewards new Members with a welcome offer and versatile value, including 4X points at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets, dining credits, and Uber Cash.
Understanding how to use your credit card benefits is a part of maintaining healthy finances and helping you achieve your financial goals.
American Express Card ‘levels’ are more like unique categories to match your spending style, from casual spender to luxury traveler – and everyone in between.
Want to know more about the annual fee for The Platinum Card®? Here’s an overview, plus a look at the Card’s abundance of travel and lifestyle credits, perks, and services.
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A new credit card must be activated before you can use it. Each card issuer might have its own set of activation instructions, but the process is usually quick.
How to Dispute a Credit Card Charge
You’re legally entitled to dispute erroneous or fraudulent credit card charges. Learn how to do it and what your rights are during and after the investigation.
What to Know About Credit Card Expiration Dates
All credit cards have expiration dates, but why? Here’s what to know about how long credit cards last, why they expire, and what happens after they expire.
WHAT'S NEW
6 Credit Card Red Flags to Watch Out For
To help find a card that’s a good financial fit, watch out for these six credit card red flags – like unnecessary fees and rewards that expire.
How to Check If a Website Is Legit
Wondering how to tell if a website’s legit? Here are some things you should look for. Learn how to make informed choices and protect personal information online.
What Is Identity Theft Monitoring?
Identity theft monitoring services can alert you to suspicious activity that might otherwise go undetected. These solutions can help you take action to prevent identity theft.
ALL FRAUD & SECURITY ARTICLES
Wondering how to tell if a website’s legit? Here are some things you should look for. Learn how to make informed choices and protect personal information online.
Text alerts are a useful tool to keep financial accounts safe from fraud. Learn how to use them, and how to avoid being used by fraudsters.
To help find a card that’s a good financial fit, watch out for these six credit card red flags – like unnecessary fees and rewards that expire.
If you use credit cards online, it’s important to learn how to protect yourself from common cybersecurity risks. Most card issuers and merchants can help keep you safe, too.
Phishing scams that aim to steal your information remain extremely common, but basic precautions can help you spot them and avoid falling for them.
Elderly fraud and scams are on the rise, as older adults shift online in a big way – and so do scammers targeting their finances. Here are tips to protect against senior fraud.
Identity theft may be more common than you think. Here are 10 important things to know about identity theft, including how to prevent it and what to do if it happens.
Identity theft can be a costly hassle that affects up to 1 in 3 Americans. Here are 7 common identity theft techniques and related tips to help protect you from each.
Credit card numbers may seem random, but many digits serve a specific purpose, like identifying card issuers or ensuring legitimacy through a special algorithm.
It’s not always possible to find a lost credit card. The good news is that getting a replacement card is usually a simple, straightforward process. Here’s what to do.
Learn how to report credit card fraud and protect your finances. Here are some things to consider when reporting credit card fraud to take action against unauthorized transactions.
Knowing the types of gift card scams and tips to avoid them can help keep you safe from this increasingly common form of fraud. Learn such tips and be safe.
Identity theft monitoring services can alert you to suspicious activity that might otherwise go undetected. These solutions can help you take action to prevent identity theft.
Protect yourself from credit card fraud by using technology, statement and credit report reviews, and recognizing common fraud tactics.
A new credit card must be activated before you can use it. Each card issuer might have its own set of activation instructions, but the process is usually quick.
You’re legally entitled to dispute erroneous or fraudulent credit card charges. Learn how to do it and what your rights are during and after the investigation.
All credit cards have expiration dates, but why? Here’s what to know about how long credit cards last, why they expire, and what happens after they expire.
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Amex Rose Gold: How to Make the Most of It
The American Express® Gold Card’s Rose Gold option lets you choose the card that fits your style while earning Uber Cash and more points on dining, groceries, and travel.
Find the Right Credit Card by Credit Score
Your credit score is an important part of getting approved for a credit card. Considering factors like rewards, Annual Percentage Rates (APR), and fees can help you weigh the right credit card for your credit score.
How to Get an Instant Approval Credit Card—and Use it Instantly!
It takes 3 steps to get and use an instant approval credit card – which is different from credit card pre-approval. Learn how to apply for one online.
WHAT'S NEW
Cash Back vs. Travel Rewards: Which May Be Best for You?
Cash back rewards and travel points are two enticing benefits to consider when searching for the “best” credit card for you. Here’s what to know.
Get the Most Out Of Holiday Shopping Using a Credit Card
Planning your holiday shopping list? Learn how using the right credit card when holiday shopping online can help you boost seasonal savings and earn rewards.
What Happens When You Max Out a Credit Card?
See what happens when you max out a credit card, including the impact on your financial health and credit score. See how to handle a maxed-out card.
ALL TYPES OF CREDIT CARDS ARTICLES
See what happens when you max out a credit card, including the impact on your financial health and credit score. See how to handle a maxed-out card.
Want to know how to get a credit card for the first time? Here are a few tips to help you with your search.
Want to know how to transfer credit card balance? Learn how you can consolidate your debts, save on interest charges, and regain control of your finances.
Get the most out of your retirement with a credit card that meets your needs. Explore cash back and travel rewards options that make spending more rewarding.
APR and APY both include interest rates, but one is mostly for borrowers and the other for investors. Learn more about the differences between APR and APY.
Learn how to leverage the advantages of a 0% introductory annual percentage rate (APR) credit card to save on interest during the introductory period.
Using a no-annual-fee card with a low or 0% intro APR can help you save money, while annual fee cards can also offer savings in rewards like travel perks or cash back.
Know the differences between debit and credit cards, Explore the benefits and risks associated with each option to determine which is best suited for you.
Choosing between a gas card or an airline miles reward card can be simple for some and challenging for others. Here are the benefits of each to aid your decision.
There are many different types of cash back credit cards. Explore all to find the best credit card that fits your needs and pocket.
Zero interest credit cards can help you save money, but make sure you choose wisely. Follow these rules to avoid penalties in the future.
Explore the benefits of credit cards with no annual fees, including money-saving features and rewards like cash back and travel points. Choose the one right for you.
Wondering if buying a money order with a credit card is a good idea? Find out why experts say to keep your card in your wallet.
Understand how different types of credit cards cater to specific needs, such as travel or cashback rewards.
The best dining rewards credit card depends on your spending habits and dining preferences. Learn how choosing the right card can help you maximize dining benefits.
Compare a variety of Delta SkyMiles® American Express Credit Cards to find the Card with the right travel benefits for your lifestyle.
The American Express® Gold Card’s Rose Gold option lets you choose the card that fits your style while earning Uber Cash and more points on dining, groceries, and travel.
Your credit score is an important part of getting approved for a credit card. Considering factors like rewards, Annual Percentage Rates (APR), and fees can help you weigh the right credit card for your credit score.
It takes 3 steps to get and use an instant approval credit card – which is different from credit card pre-approval. Learn how to apply for one online.
Cash back rewards and travel points are two enticing benefits to consider when searching for the “best” credit card for you. Here’s what to know.
Planning your holiday shopping list? Learn how using the right credit card when holiday shopping online can help you boost seasonal savings and earn rewards.
The best credit card for entertainment purchases is the one that most matches your lifestyle. Learn more about the benefits and perks of these credit cards.
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CVV numbers are the extra 3- or 4-digit numbers on credit or debit cards. They provide an added layer of security by ensuring the buyer has physical access to their card.
How to Use Your American Express Card with Venmo and PayPal
Amex has teamed up with Venmo and PayPal to enhance the way you send money and split purchases with friends and family. Here’s how it works.
How to Increase Your Credit Limit
Learn how you can increase your credit limit and boost your credit score. Explore the different pros and cons of credit limit increases.
WHAT'S NEW
Can Someone Else Pay My Credit Card Bill?
It’s not typical, but someone else may be able to pay your credit card bill. Likewise, you may be able to pay someone else’s bill. See how it works.
What Is a Billing Cycle and How Long Is It?
Learn about billing cycles for credit cards, including their duration, billing dates, payment due dates, and how they can affect your payments.
What Happens If You Default On A Credit Card?
See what happens if you default on a credit card, including late fees, potential credit score damage, and more.
ALL UNDERSTANDING CREDIT CARDS ARTICLES
Learn about billing cycles for credit cards, including their duration, billing dates, payment due dates, and how they can affect your payments.
It’s not typical, but someone else may be able to pay your credit card bill. Likewise, you may be able to pay someone else’s bill. See how it works.
See what happens if you default on a credit card, including late fees, potential credit score damage, and more.
Learn the steps involved in changing your name on your credit card after a name change, as well as the typical documentation required and the general process.
Find out what happens if you miss a credit card payment, including fees and potential impact on your credit score. See strategies for managing missed payments.
Discover how digital wallets work, the benefits of using them, and practical tips for using them securely for online and in-person transactions.
Explore the best practices for managing credit cards effectively to avoid credit card debt, improve your credit score, and maximize rewards and benefits.
You can’t track the physical location of a credit card. However, you may be able to monitor your purchase history online or with your card issuer’s app.
A balance transfer can take between two days and six weeks to complete. However, this will vary, depending on the financial institution and its process.
Some bills can be paid by credit card, including utilities, cell phone service, and subscriptions. But there are a few exceptions. There may also be fees that apply.
A balance transfer could help you save on interest. However, if you don’t have good credit, or know you’ll struggle with payments, it may not be a good option.
Wondering if you should pay your credit card early? This can be a great approach and could benefit your credit score. See what happens when you pay early.
Upgrading a credit card can help you access better features and rewards. Learn how to upgrade your credit card.
Learn how to swipe a credit card for smooth transactions and to help prevent errors. See other ways that you may be able to use your credit card as well.
A credit card grace period is the amount of time between your statement closing date and payment due date. It’s typically at least 21 days, but it will vary.
A credit card refund happens when the cost of the returned item is credited back to your account. See how credit card refunds work and how long they typically take.
Lenders don’t usually accept car payments made by credit card. While there may be workarounds, you might be charged additional interest and fees.
Paying your card balance in full keeps interest and debt at bay, but choosing to pay over time can afford financial flexibility when paying off major purchases.
Learn how your credit card PIN adds security to your transactions. See how to set up and use your PIN effectively for cardholder verification.
Discover how to identify and avoid credit card skimmers to help protect yourself from fraud. See what you can do if your card has been skimmed.
Credit cards don’t use routing numbers like checking and savings accounts do. Instead, credit card transactions use credit card numbers.
A provisional credit is a temporary credit applied to your account while a dispute is investigated. Its permanence depends on the outcome of the investigation.
Pending transactions are authorized charges that haven’t been fully processed yet. Learn how long pending transactions typically take to process.
Can you pay a credit card with a credit card? The answer is no, but there may be alternatives, including a cash advance, balance transfer credit card, or loan.
Discover the meaning of prequalified vs. preapproved, two terms that are sometimes used interchangeably but may have different meanings, depending on the card issuer.
Understanding the difference between the statement balance and the current balance on a credit card can help you to manage your payments.
Learn what a cash advance on a credit card is, its advantages, drawbacks, and responsible usage, and when to consider using a cash advance.
Calling a credit card reconsideration line might change the outcome of a rejected card application, but it’s not guaranteed. Learn more.
Discover 14 different types of credit card fees, from annual fees, to foreign transaction fees, to less popular fees such as credit limit increase fees.
Gas credit cards offer many benefits, but how are they different from other credit cards? Find out if gas credit cards are the best choice for you.
Before choosing a credit card, make sure to do some research around the best cards that fit your needs. Here’s how to choose one.
Making only a credit card’s minimum payment can greatly extend the time it takes to pay a balance, and drive up interest costs. But it can make sense—occasionally.
Understand how cash back works and make informed choices when selecting a cash back credit card that suits your lifestyle.
Learn what to consider when comparing credit cards, including rewards, fees, interest rates, and your financial needs to help you make an informed decision before applying.
A credit card balance is the total amount of credit that you’ve used on your card. Learn what a credit card balance is and how it’s calculated.
Learn about the potential trade-offs involved in closing a zero-balance credit card, as it may influence both your credit score and long-term financial health.
It’s important to pay your credit card bill in full – and on time – each month. Here’s what you need to know.
Wondering about the Amex Gold Card annual fee? Here’s an overview of what it would cost for you – and any additional Card Members – to carry the Gold Card.
Both a credit card and a personal line of credit can help meet your borrowing needs, but it’s important to understand the nuances that differentiate the two.
You have to meet a few conditions to apply for a credit card. Read more for factors to consider before applying for a credit card & take a well-informed decision.
Find out whether you should cancel or keep unused credit cards for a healthier financial future. Learn how they can impact your credit score, financial habits, and more.
Interest is the amount of money a lender charges you to borrow, and interest rates are how they calculate how much to charge. Learn more about interest rates.
The definition of a finance charge is any charge associated with using credit cards. Learn more about credit card finance charges and how to avoid them.
Here's a definition of credit cards and an exploration of the different types of credit cards. Find the credit card that's right for you and apply online today.
Learn if you should use credit cards for all purchases, see situations where credit card use isn’t recommended, and see tips for responsible credit card use.
When the Federal Reserve raises or lowers interest rates, credit card interest rates adjust too. Why? Learn how the Fed’s interest rate policy influences credit cards.
Discover the convenience of using a contactless credit card for quick and secure transactions. Learn how to tap and pay and embrace the future of touchless payments.
Credit card processing is much more intricate than it may seem. Discover what happens behind the scenes within seconds of your transaction.
Discover the surge in contactless payments, offering convenience and security through tap-to-pay technology and mobile wallets for faster and safer transactions.
Understanding how credit cards work can help you use them to your best advantage. Peek behind the curtain of credit cards’ complex workings.
Learn when to apply for a new credit card and why a new credit card won't do good in certain situations. Make informed choices about your credit cards.
Discover the ways to use credit cards for budget tracking, wealth building, and maximizing rewards. Using credit cards wisely can improve your financial credibility.
Find out why your credit card declined and how to help prevent it. Get insights on reasons for card declines and see tips to protect your account.
Wondering if your credit card expires at the beginning or end of the designated month? Learn what happens at expiration and what to do when a new card arrives.
Your credit card statement reveals what you need to know to help stay on top of your finances, such as your overall balance, minimum payment due, and due date.
The ideal number of credit cards to have will vary from person to person. For some it’s one or two, while others may benefit from having quite a few.
An overpaid credit card can result in a negative balance and shrink what you owe on your next statement, but it won’t boost your credit score or credit limit.
Many credit card applications require you to provide a Social Security number, but you may be able to apply even if you don’t have this form of identification.
Discover if paying a credit card annual fee is worth it. The benefits you can earn on a credit card can be worth more than the annual fee you pay for the card.
For those wondering when and how to get a credit card - whether for yourself or your child - the most important factors to consider are age and financial stability.
Find out what happens if you miss a credit card payment, including fees and potential impact on your credit score. See strategies for managing missed payments.
CVV numbers are the extra 3- or 4-digit numbers on credit or debit cards. They provide an added layer of security by ensuring the buyer has physical access to their card.
Amex has teamed up with Venmo and PayPal to enhance the way you send money and split purchases with friends and family. Here’s how it works.
Learn how you can increase your credit limit and boost your credit score. Explore the different pros and cons of credit limit increases.
Many card issuers make it possible
to be approved for a credit card –
and even start using it – within minutes.
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The material made available for you on this website, Credit Intel, is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal, tax or financial advice. If you have questions, please consult your own professional legal, tax and financial advisors.
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