What are the Top Credit Cards for 2015?

Top Credit Cards for 2015: A Comprehensive Guide for Savvy Consumers

Are you looking for a credit card that suits your lifestyle and financial needs? With so many options available, finding the right one can be overwhelming. In this article, we will discuss the top credit cards for 2015 based on their rewards, benefits, fees, and overall value.

Travel Credit Cards

If you are a frequent traveler, a travel credit card can provide you with exclusive perks and rewards. The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is one of the best options in this category. It offers 2x points on travel and dining, 1x point on other purchases, and a generous sign-up bonus of 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months. The card also comes with travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards program.

Cashback Credit Cards

Cashback credit cards allow you to earn a percentage of your purchases back in the form of cash rewards. The Citi Double Cash Card is a top choice forcashback rewards. It offers 2% cashback on all purchases (1% when you buy and 1% when you pay your bill) and has no annual fee. The card also comes with a balance transfer offer of 0% APR for 18 months.

Balance Transfer Credit Cards

If you have high-interest credit card debt, a balance transfer credit card can help you save money on interest charges. The Discover it Balance Transfer card is a great option for this purpose. It offers 0% APR on balance transfers for 18 months (3% balance transfer fee applies) and 0% APR on purchases for 6 months. The card also has no annual fee and provides cashback rewards on purchases.

Student Credit Cards

For college students who are new to credit, a student credit card can help them build credit history and earn rewards. The Discover it Student Cash Back card is a popular choice for its rewards and benefits. It offers 5% cashback on rotating categories (up to $1,500 per quarter), 1% cashback on other purchases, and a $20 statement credit each school year for maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The card also has no annual fee and provides free access to your FICO credit score.

Tips for Applying for Credit Cards

When applying for a credit card, keep in mind the following tips:

- Check your credit score and credit report before applying to ensure you meet the card's requirements.

- Compare different cards based on their rewards, benefits, fees, and interest rates.

- Apply for a card that suits your spending habits and financial goals.

- Use credit responsibly by paying your bill on time and in full each month to avoid interest charges and late fees.

Saving Money with Credit Cards

Credit cards can also help you save money in various ways, such as:

- Using cashback rewards to offset your purchases or pay your bill.

- Taking advantage of sign-up bonuses and promotional offers.

- Using balance transfer offers to consolidate high-interest debt and pay it off faster.

- Usingtravel rewardsto book flights, hotels, and rental cars at a discount.

Annual Fees and Risk Management

Keep in mind that some credit cards may charge an annual fee, which can offset the rewards and benefits you earn. Before applying for a card with an annual fee, make sure the rewards and benefits are worth the cost. Also, be aware of the risks associated with credit cards, such as overspending, identity theft, and fraud. To minimize these risks, monitor your account regularly, set up alerts, and report any suspicious activity to your card issuer.

Credit Card Companies to Consider

Finally, here are some credit card companies that offer a range of cards with different rewards and benefits:

- Chase

- Citi

- Discover

- American Express

- Capital One

Conclusion

Choosing the right credit card can be a smart financial move that allows you to earn rewards, save money, and build credit. By comparing different cards based on their rewards, benefits, fees, and value, you can find the one that best suits your needs. Remember to use credit responsibly and take advantage of the many perks that credit cards offer.