credit-cards · 5 MIN
Credit card rewards math that actually matters
Don't chase bonuses that cost more in interest than they pay.
Pay in full or skip rewards games
Interest on a carried balance usually wipes out rewards value. Rewards work best for spend you already planned.
Annual fee vs bonus value
A $95 fee needs more than $95 of real reward value yearly—or a first-year bonus that more than covers it.
Category bonuses stack
Groceries, gas, and dining categories can beat flat 1–2% cards if those are major budget lines.
Related offers
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Earn rewards on everyday spending. Compare APR, annual fees, and bonuses.
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Move high-interest debt to a promotional APR window—read fees carefully.
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