Top Credit Cards of December 2024
Whether you want rewards for daily spending, travel perks, or to build your credit, we have you covered. Here are the top credit cards for 2024.
10 popular credit cards tailored to your needs
Picking the perfect credit card can feel like trying to find the right avocado—there are just so many options, and you don't want one that'll turn rotten on you after a few days. But don't worry, we've done the legwork. Here's a quick look at some of the best credit cards for 2024, no matter your situation.
1. Best for travel rewards: Hilton Honors American Express Card
If you're the type who has a suitcase permanently packed, the Hilton Honors American Express Card is your BFF. You'll earn points like a boss on hotel stays and everyday purchases. Plus, there's no annual fee (at least for the first year), and if you play your cards right (pun intended), you can snag complimentary Silver status in Hilton's loyalty program. Hello, free breakfast.
2. Best for airline miles: Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
Dreaming of a first-class seat but paying for a coach ticket? The Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® makes that fantasy a little more realistic. Rack up miles every time you swipe for gas, dining, or groceries. Plus, it's got one of the smoothest paths to a free checked bag—ideal for those who travel heavy. Oh, and priority boarding, because waiting in lines is so last year.
3. Best for building credit: Discover it® Secured Credit Card
If your credit score needs a little TLC, the Discover it® Secured Card is like a gentle nudge in the right direction. It's a secured card" (so you'll need to put down a deposit), but it reports to all three major credit bureaus, helping you build credit with every responsible payment. Plus, they offer cashback on everyday purchases, making this card a double win.
4. Best for cash back: Chase Freedom Unlimited®
If you love cash back (and who doesn't?), Chase Freedom Unlimited® offers a 1.5% return on every single purchase you make, with no annual fee. Newbies can even score 5% back on grocery store purchases for the first year. It's like getting paid to spend money—what's not to love?
5. Best for bad credit: Capital One Platinum Credit Card
Sometimes life happens, and your credit score takes a hit. But the Capital One Platinum Credit Card has your back. It's specifically designed for people with average or bad credit and doesn't come with the usual list of outrageous fees. Use it responsibly, and you could see a credit limit increase in just six months. Not bad for a comeback story.
6. Best for no annual fee: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Who needs an annual fee? Not you. The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card skips the fee and instead gives you a solid 2% cash back on purchases. Whether you're buying tacos or textbooks, you're earning rewards, and the sign-up bonus is just the cherry on top.
7. Best for business: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
For the boss babes and hustlers out there, the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is your go-to for business expenses. Earn 3 points per dollar on travel and select business categories, plus there's a huge sign-up bonus waiting for you. It's like getting a promotion every time you make a business purchase.
8. Best for premium travel perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express
If you like your travel with a side of luxury, The Platinum Card® from American Express is the upgrade you need. From access to airport lounges to a $200 airline fee credit, this card basically turns every trip into a first-class experience. Just be ready to drop a hefty annual fee for the VIP treatment.
9. Best for flexible rewards: American Express® Gold Card
Some like their rewards in cash, others in points. The American Express® Gold Card gives you flexibility. With extra points on dining and travel, it's a great choice for those who want high rewards and flexibility without being tied down to a specific airline or hotel chain.
10. Best for low interest: BankAmericard® Credit Card
Hate interest charges? Meet your new bestie. The BankAmericard® Credit Card is all about low APRs and offers one of the best introductory 0% APR deals on the market. Perfect for big purchases or paying down debt without worrying about interest creeping up on you.
How do credit cards work?
A credit card isn't just a magic piece of plastic that buys things—it's a short-term loan. Every time you swipe, you're borrowing money from your credit card company, with the promise to pay it back. Ideally, you pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges altogether. But if you can't? Don't worry, you can still make monthly payments. Just know that carrying a balance means you'll start accruing interest based on the APR you agreed to when you got the card. While paying the minimum each month is an option, it can lead to more interest piling up over time, making it harder to pay off your balance in the long run.
Different types of credit cards
Not all credit cards are created equal. Just like there's a perfect coffee order for everyone, there's a card that fits your unique lifestyle and spending habits. Here are some of the most common types:
- Rewards credit cards: Cashback, points, miles—you name it, rewards cards give you a little something extra every time you spend. Great for those who want to get more from their everyday purchases.
- Travel credit cards: Designed for jet-setters, these cards offer rewards in miles or points you can redeem for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses. Some even come with perks like airport lounge access and priority boarding.
- Balance transfer credit cards: Got high-interest debt? Balance transfer cards let you move that debt to a card with a temporary lower (or 0%) interest rate. It's like hitting the pause button on your interest payments while you work on getting debt-free.
- Business credit cards: These cards are designed for business owners and freelancers, offering rewards and perks tailored to your business needs, like extra points on office supplies and travel expenses.
How to pick the best credit card for you
Choosing the right credit card can feel like dating. You've got to find the one that fits your needs, doesn't make you pay too much, and gives you the perks you deserve.
Rewards and benefits
- Determine your spending habits: Identify where you spend most of your money to select a card that offers rewards in those areas.
- Consider rewards types: Popular options include cash back, points, miles, and travel perks.
- Evaluate additional benefits: Look for perks like travel insurance, purchase protection, or rental car insurance.
Interest rates
- Compare APRs: Compare the annual percentage rates (APRs) charged on purchases and balance transfers.
- Consider introductory offers: Some cards offer low introductory APRs for a limited time.
- Understand penalty rates: Be aware of any penalty rates that may apply if you miss payments or violate card terms.
Fees
- Annual fees: Assess whether the annual fee justifies the card's benefits.
- Transaction fees: Check for foreign transaction fees if you travel frequently.
- Late fees and overlimit fees: Understand the penalties for missed payments or exceeding your credit limit.
Credit limit
- Estimate your needs: Consider your typical monthly spending to determine a suitable credit limit.
- Avoid overspending: A high credit limit can tempt you to spend more than you can afford.
Credit requirements
- Check your credit score: Understand your creditworthiness to determine which cards you qualify for.
- Consider cards for building credit: If you have limited credit history, consider cards designed to help build credit.
Customer service
- Read reviews: Research the card issuer's customer service reputation.
- Consider accessibility: Look for easy access to customer support channels like phone, online chat, or in-person locations.
The right card for you is out there
Credit cards aren't one-size-fits-all. With the right one in your wallet, you could earn rewards, travel in style, or help build your credit. Take the time to figure out what matters most to you, and choose a card that delivers exactly that.
When should I get my first credit card?