Credit cards, explained plainly
Know what your card really pays you.
Rewards, fees, and bonuses without the sales pitch. Card offers are built to look generous. We show you the math, so you can tell whether a card earns its keep for the way you actually spend.
Guides
Start here
BasicsHow credit card rewards workCash back, points, and miles explained, and what a point is really worth.Read guide →
FeesIs an annual fee worth it?The simple math for deciding, and the credits trap to avoid.Read guide →
Getting startedChoosing your first credit cardSecured, student, and starter cards, and how to use one well.Read guide →
BonusesHow sign-up bonuses workMinimum spend, timing, issuer rules, and how not to overspend.Read guide →
Credit scoresHow credit scores workThe five factors, what moves your score, and how to check it free.Read guide →
BasicsHow credit card rewards workCash back, points, and miles explained, and what a point is really worth.Read guide →
FeesIs an annual fee worth it?The simple math for deciding, and the credits trap to avoid.Read guide →
Getting startedChoosing your first credit cardSecured, student, and starter cards, and how to use one well.Read guide →
BonusesHow sign-up bonuses workMinimum spend, timing, issuer rules, and how not to overspend.Read guide →
Credit scoresHow credit scores workThe five factors, what moves your score, and how to check it free.Read guide →
How we do this
Math over marketing
We judge cards by what they'd earn you after fees, not by the "up to" value on the ad.
Year two matters
Sign-up bonuses are great, but we look at what a card does once the bonus is gone.
Upfront about money
We don't have affiliate partnerships yet. When we do, links will be marked and won't change our picks.
Not advice
Guides are general information. Your situation, and card terms, can differ.