The American Express Green Card® and the American Express® Gold Card both earn Membership Rewards points, which can be redeemed in a wide variety of ways. But the two cards have significant differences otherwise and are aimed at different spending types. Learn how each card stacks up when compared side-by-side to help you decide which one is right for your needs. All information about the Amex Green card has been collected independently by and is no longer available through Yahoo Finance. Annual fee Whe ...

Credit cards may not be a necessity for everyone, but they can make your life much easier and even help you save money. Paying with a credit card comes with perks you may not get using other payment methods: rewards, security, convenience, and more. But credit cards also carry the risk of high-interest debt if you spend beyond your means. Do you need a credit card? While you may not need a credit card for most purchases, there are advantages to having access to credit. Here are a few reasons to open a c ...

Core Insights - A significant portion of credit card rewards remains unclaimed, with over $33 billion out of more than $40 billion earned in 2022 by U.S. cardholders going unused [1] - Some individuals are effectively managing multiple premium credit cards to maximize their rewards, turning it into a profitable side endeavor [2] Premium Credit Cards - Premium credit cards come with high annual fees, ranging from $395 for Capital One's Venture X to nearly $900 for the Amex Platinum [3] - These cards offer various perks, such as free checked bags, rideshare credits, and annual companion tickets, which can provide substantial value [3][5] Reward Management - Effective management of credit card rewards requires diligence and organization, as demonstrated by a couple who track their benefits using a color-coded spreadsheet [2] - Many cardholders lack the necessary skills or patience to manage their rewards effectively, raising questions about the overall value of premium cards for the average consumer [3]

Core Insights - Chase Ultimate Rewards is highlighted as a leading transferable rewards currency, offering significant value for leisure travel through various airline and hotel loyalty programs [1][2][53] Earning and Redemption - Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be earned through multiple credit cards, with a focus on maximizing rewards by applying for new cards and meeting spending requirements [3][6] - The program allows for flexible point redemption options, including cash back, gift cards, and travel bookings, with points valued at approximately 2 cents each [24][53] Top Transfer Partners - Air Canada Aeroplan is noted for its value, offering a zone-based award chart and a generous stopover policy, making it a preferred choice for travelers [25][26][28] - World of Hyatt is recognized for its consistent value and published award chart, with points valued at 1.5 cents each, making it a top choice among hotel loyalty programs [29][31] - Virgin Atlantic Flying Club is highlighted for its partnership with ANA, providing excellent redemption rates for premium cabin travel, particularly for flights between the U.S. and Japan [48][50][52] Credit Card Offerings - The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers a welcome bonus of 75,000 points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months, with an annual fee of $95 [7][9] - The Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card provides a welcome bonus of 125,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months, with a higher annual fee of $795 but includes extensive travel benefits [13][14] - The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card offers a welcome bonus of 90,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months, catering specifically to business owners [19][20]

Core Points - Capital One is currently offering significant welcome bonuses on its Venture X credit cards, providing opportunities to earn a large number of miles for new cardholders [1][4]. Group 1: Offers and Bonuses - The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers 100,000 bonus miles when $10,000 is spent in the first 6 months, equivalent to $1,000 in travel [4]. - The Capital One Venture X Business card offers up to 400,000 bonus miles: 200,000 miles for spending $30,000 in the first 3 months and an additional 200,000 miles for spending $150,000 in the first 6 months [10]. Group 2: Rewards Rates - The Venture X Rewards Credit Card provides 10x miles on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5x miles on flights and vacation rentals, and 2x miles on all other purchases [6]. - The Venture X Business card offers 2x miles on every purchase, 5x miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Business Travel, and 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Business Travel [11]. Group 3: Benefits - The Venture X Rewards Credit Card includes a $300 annual travel credit, 10,000 anniversary miles, and extensive airport lounge access [7]. - The Venture X Business card provides a $300 annual credit for travel bookings, 10,000 annual bonus miles, and unlimited access to Capital One Lounges and over 1,300 partner lounges [10][12].

Core Insights - Consumers are preparing for an expensive holiday shopping season due to tariffs, inflation, and a higher cost of living [1] - 84% of consumers plan to reduce spending, especially on dining out, clothing, and big-ticket items, with an expected average holiday gift spending of $721, down from $814 in 2024 [2] Consumer Behavior - Many consumers intend to rely on credit cards to manage holiday expenses, which experts warn could lead to financial difficulties in the new year [2][3] - Setting a budget and avoiding debt during the holiday season is crucial for financial health [3] Budgeting Strategies - Establishing a holiday spending line item in the budget and creating a "sinking fund" can help manage holiday expenses without affecting other financial obligations [5] - Conducting a budget audit to identify areas for cost-cutting can free up funds for holiday savings [6] Savings Opportunities - Utilizing high-yield savings accounts (HYSA) for holiday funds can enhance savings through interest earnings, with some accounts offering over 4% APY [7] - Setting specific spending limits for gifts and travel can help maintain budget discipline and prevent impulse purchases [8][9] Shopping Tips - Early shopping allows consumers to compare prices and take advantage of sales and discounts [9] - Researching retailers' price-match guarantees can help ensure consumers do not overpay for gifts [10] Additional Income Sources - Taking on seasonal part-time jobs or side gigs can provide extra cash to offset holiday expenses [11] - Creative cost-saving measures, such as reducing the number of gift recipients or suggesting gift exchanges, can make holiday giving more manageable [12] Utilizing Rewards - Credit card rewards can be redeemed for gift cards or merchandise, helping to alleviate some holiday costs [13] Overall Perspective - The holiday season should focus on intentional and thoughtful spending rather than excessive expenditure, with proper planning and budgeting strategies enabling enjoyment without incurring debt [14]

Core Insights - Credit cards can provide significant rewards through strategic use, particularly by maximizing sign-up bonuses and using the appropriate card for each spending category [4][20] - The average American spends over $5,200 monthly on credit cards, which can yield substantial rewards if managed effectively [5] Spending Strategies - To meet minimum spend requirements without overspending, timing card openings around large necessary expenses is recommended [3] - Using multiple cards with category-specific bonuses can enhance overall rewards, especially when combined with a flat-rate card for other purchases [13][17] Reward Maximization - Sign-up bonuses are often the most efficient way to earn rewards, with some cards offering substantial bonuses for relatively low spending [4][20] - Pairing cards strategically and utilizing the best card for each category can lead to higher rewards [6][14] Redemption Methods - Different redemption methods can significantly impact the value of rewards, with some options providing better value than others [10] - Creative redemption strategies, such as transferring points to partner programs, can stretch rewards further [5][11] Common Mistakes - Failing to track rewards and neglecting to activate rotating categories can lead to missed opportunities [15] - High annual fees and carrying a balance can diminish the value of rewards earned [15][18]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the benefits of redeeming credit card points for holiday shopping, highlighting various redemption options that can help consumers save money and earn rewards during the holiday season [1][2]. Redemption Options - Credit card points can be redeemed for various options including gift cards, statement credits, travel, and merchandise, with gift cards often providing straightforward redemption values [2][3]. - For example, Amex offers a redemption value of up to $100 for every 10,000 points, while Chase typically maintains a 1:1 ratio for gift cards [4][5]. - Statement credits and bank deposits are flexible redemption options, usually at a 1:1 ratio, but Amex Membership Rewards may offer less value at $60 for 10,000 points [6][7]. - Travel redemptions also follow a 1:1 ratio, but certain cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® can provide enhanced value through specific bookings [10]. Popular Gift Card Options - Gift cards from retailers such as Apple, Amazon, and Target are highlighted as convenient options for holiday gifting, with most issuers providing clear redemption values [3][4]. Maximizing Rewards - Strategies to maximize credit card rewards during the holiday season include using rewards credit cards for all purchases, earning sign-up bonuses, and checking for targeted shopping offers from card issuers [14][15][17]. - Utilizing online shopping portals can also enhance rewards earned on purchases, as these portals share commissions with users [21][22]. Recommended Credit Cards - The article lists several credit cards that are particularly beneficial for holiday shopping, including the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, Prime Visa, and Chase Freedom Unlimited, each with unique features and welcome offers [27][31][35][38].

Core Insights - Credit card issuers and retailers are increasingly offering rewards programs for home goods purchases, exemplified by the new co-branded card from Crate & Barrel and CB2 [1][2] Group 1: Crate & Barrel and CB2 Visa Signature Card - The card offers 10% back in rewards on purchases at Crate & Barrel, CB2, Crate & Kids, and Hudson Grace, and 4% back at other home retailers and grocery stores [2] - A welcome bonus of $50 is available after spending $1,000, and a $100 milestone bonus is offered after $10,000 in annual spending [3] - The card features flexible financing options with 0% interest for up to 24 months on qualifying purchases, and there is no annual fee [3] Group 2: U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards Visa Signature Card - This card allows users to choose two preferred retailers each quarter, earning up to 6% cash back at those stores, which include popular home goods retailers [4] - An annual fee of $95 applies after the first year [4] Group 3: Strategic Considerations for Consumers - For extensive home upgrades, a store-branded card like Crate & Barrel's may provide higher rewards, while a general-purpose rewards card may be more beneficial for shopping across multiple retailers [5] - Consumers should be aware of spending caps and merchant category limitations on rewards cards, and it is crucial to pay off balances in full to avoid credit card debt [6]

Core Insights - The article discusses the best credit cards for streaming services in 2025, highlighting various options that offer rewards and benefits tailored for streaming purchases [1]. Group 1: Credit Card Options - The Amex Blue Cash Everyday Card has no annual fee and offers a $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 in the first 6 months, along with a $7 monthly statement credit for eligible subscription purchases [3][5]. - The Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card has a $95 annual fee after the first year and provides a $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 6 months, with 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions [7][9]. - The Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Card has no annual fee and offers a $300 welcome bonus, providing 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, and popular streaming services [11][12]. Group 2: Rewards and Benefits - The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers 3x points on select streaming services and has a $95 annual fee, with a welcome offer of 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months [16][19]. - The American Express Platinum Card has an $895 annual fee and offers a $25 monthly digital entertainment credit for eligible streaming services, along with a welcome offer of up to 175,000 Membership Rewards Points [24][27]. - The Citi Custom Cash Card provides 5% cash back on the top eligible spend category during a billing cycle, which can include streaming services, with no annual fee [30][56]. Group 3: Strategic Considerations - Many credit cards offer credits for specific streaming subscriptions, which can significantly reduce streaming expenses [40]. - The article emphasizes the importance of evaluating both streaming-related rewards and other spending categories to maximize the value of a credit card [42][43]. - It is noted that while some cards have annual fees, the benefits may outweigh the costs depending on individual spending habits [43][44].