The Cards Guy

https://thecardsguy.com/general-travel/If you asked me how to approach credit card applications, I wouldn’t start with the biggest bonus. I would start with your credit, your spending and what you actually want the card to do for you over the next year or two. This isn’t about collecting as many cards as possible. It’s about choosing a […]

Updated as of November 28, 2025. These are the rules Chase is using right now and how to think about them as you plan into 2026. Key points at a glance **5/24 is still active.** If five or more personal cards have reported in the last 24 months, most new Chase approvals will be very

Before you apply: a few quick checks Am I going to spend this money anyway? If you need to buy extra just to hit the bonus, the points aren’t worth it and the balance can turn into interest very fast. Can I comfortably pay the balance in full? A big offer only makes sense if

This document summarizes the limited-time transfer bonuses available as of December 1, 2025, from US-issued transferable points programs (personal and business cards) to airline and hotel partners. It also includes a few closely related promos from non-bank programs that US travelers can use. Offers can change or end early. Always confirm the bonus and terms

Updated for December 2025. American Express has refreshed both the U.S. Consumer Platinum Card and the U.S. Business Platinum Card with higher annual fees ($895 on each) and over $3,500 in advertised yearly value when you add up all the credits and perks. Because most of those credits reset on a calendar schedule, there’s a

If you’re paying your cell phone carrier every month for insurance, there’s a good chance you’re leaving money on the table. A growing number of credit card issuers quietly bundle cell phone protection into their cards – sometimes with better coverage and a lower deductible than your carrier plan – as long as you pay

Updated as of November 28, 2025. This is a practical look at how the major issuers are handling approvals and welcome bonuses right now, and what that means for your plans going into 2026. Key takeaways Most big issuers now limit welcome bonuses to **once per card** or **once every 24–48 months**. American Express and

2026 is already shaping up to be a big year for credit cards and rewards programs. Several changes have been formally announced by the banks and partners themselves, with clear timelines for when they will take effect. In this post, I want to walk you through the key updates that are already on the calendar

Store credit cards that pay 5% or more at a single retailer look like easy savings. Used right, they work like a permanent sale on things you buy anyway. Used wrong, they turn into very expensive, 30%-APR debt. This guide covers when 5% store cards make sense and 10 major U.S. cards that give 5%+

November 2025 has turned into one of the strongest months of the year for new credit card welcome offers. Issuers are pushing hard before the holidays, rolling out elevated bonuses and refreshed products that can deliver serious value if you time your applications right. Below is a clear overview of the standout offers available right