Lindsay Konsko

The latest from Lindsay

Capital One Venture vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred 2025: Sapphire Shines a Bit Brighter

Both are solid choices, but the Chase Sapphire Preferred boasts higher point values and travel protections.

Capital One Miles: How the Program Works

To get the most out of Capital One Miles, you'll want to use them for travel.

How to Stop Credit Card Preapproval Letters

With a phone call or a visit to an opt-out website, you can stop these offers. Just be aware of what you'll miss.

Why Do Some Stores Have Credit Card Minimums?

Why Do Some Stores Have Credit Card Minimums?

A "minimum required purchase amount" helps the merchant cover the fees it must pay to process your transaction.

I Only Have One Credit Card – Is That a Problem?

There's no problem with using a single card. Just watch your balance, and have a backup plan if it gets declined.

Is There a Limit to How Many Credit Cards I Can Have?

You can have as many credit cards as you want — or, at least, as many as you can get approved for.

How to Apply for a Credit Card Without a Social Security Number

Noncitizens can get a similar identifier called an ITIN, and some 'alternative' cards don't require a Social Security number at all.

Credit Card Closed Due to Inactivity?

What to Know If Your Credit Card Is Closed Due to Inactivity

Having a card account closed by the issuer can hurt your credit scores. Use your cards regularly to avoid it.

Will a Balance Transfer Hurt My Credit Score?

You don't get bonus points (or lose points) just for moving debt. But if you use the transfer as an opportunity to pay down your debt, you can improve your credit.

How Long Should I Wait Between Credit Card Applications?

How Long Should I Wait Between Credit Card Applications?

Waiting about six months between applications is a good rule of thumb and can increase your chances of approval.

Where Is American Express Accepted?

AmEx says it's reached 'virtual parity' in the U.S. with Visa and Mastercard through partnerships that have gotten small and locally owned businesses on board.

Which Credit Card Issuers Offer Zero Fraud Liability?

All major issuers, and many smaller ones, pledge that you won't be on the hook for fraudulent charges on your card.

What Is a Cash Advance?-story

What Is a Credit Card Cash Advance?

A cash advance is a short-term cash loan — an expensive one — taken against the credit line on your credit card.

Happy couple

You Can Include Spouse’s Income When Applying for a Credit Card

If you're at least 21 years old and you have access to the income of a partner or spouse, you can list it in your credit card application.

How Long Do Derogatory Marks Stay on Your Credit?

Missed payments, collections and other derogatory marks can stay on your credit reports for seven years or more.