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• Find out how to apply for or renew your U.S. passport
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Learn about passports, travel documents for minors, and travel to, from, and within the U.S.

U.S. passports

Find out how to apply for or renew a passport and what to do if your passport is lost or stolen.

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Learn about visa requirements, Trusted Traveler Programs like Global Entry, emergencies, and more.

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See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

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How to get a REAL ID and use it for travel

The REAL ID Act sets higher security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards.

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As a non-citizen U.S. resident, learn what documents you need to return to the U.S. if you leave.

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Anyone can pay the I-131A filing fee from anywhere in the world. Whoever pays the fee must use a credit or debit card or U.S. bank account.

The current filing fee is $575.00

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Essential Documents for Air Travel: What You Absolutely Can’t Forget

I f you're like most people, packing for a trip is a whirlwind. Clothes? Check. Toothbrush? Check. But wait, where's your passport? As travel writer Rick Steves put it, "Travel documents are the most important things to pack when getting ready for a trip." Yet, these vital items often get overlooked until the last minute.

• Only 42% of Americans have a passport; it's a crucial document for international travel .
• The REAL ID Act mandates a minimum security standard for state-issued IDs and driver's licenses for domestic air travel.
• Apart from ID and boarding pass, other documents might be necessary depending on your destination and situation.

The Basics: Passport and REAL ID

According to the U.S. Department of State, a mere 42% of Americans possessed a valid passport as of 2020. Yet, it is the golden ticket to international air travel. As for domestic flights, the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, forbids federal agencies like the TSA from accepting non-compliant IDs for air travel within the U.S. after October 1, 2021. Simply put, either you've got a REAL ID or you don't fly. Clear as that.

Extra Documents for Different Circumstances

Depending on the nature of your journey, you may need additional documents. Visas, immunization certificates, parental consent for minors traveling alone, all play crucial roles under certain circumstances. So, it's not just your identification and boarding pass – the right paperwork ensures a smooth journey.

Be Prepared: Keeping Your Documents Safe and Handy

Loss or theft of travel documents can turn a dream vacation into a nightmare. It's essential to have copies of your documents and store them separately from the originals. Digital backups on your phone or in the cloud are also a good idea. Better safe than sorry, right?

Specific Situations: What Else Might You Need?

For parents traveling with minors, especially in cases of single-parent families or guardians, a notarized travel permission from the absent parent or legal guardian might be required by some airlines. Don't forget those pesky entry or exit fees some countries might charge, too. Carrying proof of payment for such fees can save you from unexpected surprises.

The 'What If' Factor: Health and Travel Insurance

Finally, while not always mandated, proof of health insurance or travel insurance can be a lifesaver. Certain destinations require proof of health insurance upon arrival. As for travel insurance, it might be your saving grace if your trip doesn't go as planned.

In conclusion, proper preparation can make or break your trip. Always double-check your travel document requirements well in advance. By staying prepared, you'll ensure your journey is stress-free and enjoyable.

What documents do I need for domestic flights in the U.S.?

You need a federally-approved form of identification like a REAL ID driver's license or a passport.

What documents do I need for international travel?

For international travel, you need a valid passport. Depending on the destination country, a visa may also be required.

What should I do if I lose my travel documents?

If you lose your travel documents, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate if abroad, or the issuing authority if at home.

What documents do I need to travel with minors?

When traveling with minors, especially as a single parent or a guardian, you might need a notarized travel permission from the absent parent or the legal guardian. Policies may vary, so check with your airline.

Do I need proof of health or travel insurance for air travel?

Some destinations require proof of health insurance upon arrival. As for travel insurance, while not mandatory, it is highly recommended to mitigate any unexpected travel mishaps.

• U.S. Department of State - Passport Statistics
• Congressional Research Service - REAL ID Act
• Rick Steves - Travel Tips

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Travel documents

Know which documents you need and where to get them to make your travel quick and easy.

Identification documents

Canadian passports.

A passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel identification document and it proves that you have a right to return to Canada 

Canadian Travel Number

Avoid delays at the airport because your name is the same as, or similar to, that of someone on the No Fly List ( Secure Air Travel Act list)

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If you travel between Canada and the United States often, a NEXUS card will save you time at the border

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Permanent residents of Canada need a permanent resident card to re-enter Canada

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Find out whether you need a visa for your destination and get it well in advance of your trip

Certificate of Canadian citizenship

A Canadian citizenship certificate is not a valid travel document

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Information on permits to transport, import or export a listed wildlife species or items made from listed wildlife species

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Your Canadian driver's licence may not be valid in your destination country

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You may need a Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) to travel outside Canada with your vehicle.

International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis

Some countries may require you to show proof of vaccination  

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CANPASS cards allow private aircraft to clear customs and immigration quickly and securely

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Consent letter for children travelling abroad.

A consent letter helps children travelling without both parents to enter foreign countries and re-enter Canada

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Information on the legal issues involved in getting married abroad 

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Information about getting notarial services while you are outside Canada

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Information for Canadian dual citizens who are travelling to another country where they have citizenship

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Buy travel insurance before you travel outside Canada. Bring your insurance information with you. You may need to prove you have travel insurance to enter some countries

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Travellers can shorten the entry process to the U.S. by submitting their passport and customs declaration information through this app

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There are 2 types of travel documents non-Canadians can use when travelling:

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The application form is the same for both types of travel documents.

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You can apply for a document to travel outside the UK if:

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Q&A on Trump’s Criminal Conviction

By Robert Farley , D'Angelo Gore , Lori Robertson and Eugene Kiely

Posted on May 31, 2024

Este artículo estará disponible en español en El Tiempo Latino .

Donald Trump became the first U.S. president, current or former, to be convicted of a criminal offense when a 12-person jury in New York on May 30 found him guilty on 34 felony counts of business fraud as part of an illegal scheme to influence the 2016 election by making payments to suppress a sordid tale of sex with a porn star.

The unprecedented conviction raises questions about what’s next for the 77-year-old man who is in line to become the Republican Party’s nominee for president in 2024.

In remarks at Trump Tower a day after his conviction, Trump called the United States “ a corrupt country ” and declared that he would be “ appealing this scam .”

(Trump also repeated many of the false, misleading and unsupported claims he has made about the judge, the judge’s rulings, the district attorney and other issues related to the trial. For more about Trump’s talking points, see our May 30 article, “ Trump’s Repeated Claims on His New York Hush Money Trial .” He also repeated false and unsubstantiated claims on other issues, such as taxes and migrants .)

Here, we answer some of the questions raised by the former president’s conviction:

What are the next steps in the case? What punishment could Trump face? Will he go to prison? Can Trump vote in the 2024 election? Can a felon run for president, hold office? Can Trump pardon himself on this conviction, if he wins?

What are the next steps in the case?

Sentencing and an appeal are up next in this case.

Sentencing by Justice Juan Merchan is scheduled for July 11. Before that date, a probation officer or someone in that department will interview Trump, and potentially others involved in the case or connected to Trump, and prepare  a pre-sentence report  for the judge. The report includes the personal history and criminal record of the defendant, and it recommends what sentence the defendant should receive, according to the New York State Unified Court System.

“The pre-sentence interview is a chance for the defendant to try to make a good impression and explain why he or she deserves a lighter punishment,” the state court system explains.

Trump’s lawyers have to wait until after the sentencing to appeal the conviction. First, Trump’s lawyers will file motions before the judge “in a couple weeks” saying why they found the trial to be “unfair,” Trump’s defense attorney Todd Blanche  told CNN  hours after the guilty verdict.

Cheryl Bader , a clinical associate professor of law at Fordham University School of Law, said these motions are typical when a defendant is convicted. The defense attorneys will ask the judge to overturn the jury’s conviction. “It’s rarely, rarely granted, and I don’t think there’s a chance that will happen in this case,” she told us in a phone interview.

Blanche told CNN that if the motions aren’t successful, “then as soon as we can appeal, we will. And the process in New York is there’s a sentencing, and then — and then we appeal from there.”

Bader, a former assistant U.S. attorney for the District of New Jersey, walked us through the appeals process. “The case is considered completed at sentencing,” she said. “At that point, his lawyers file a notice of appeal … letting the court know that he intends to appeal.”

At that point, they will also request a “stay” on the sentence, meaning a pause on imposing the sentence while the case is being appealed.

This appeal goes to the  Appellate Division, First Judicial Department  in Manhattan. The appeals court doesn’t retry the case. “They’re not going to substitute their judgment on the facts for the jury’s judgment,” Bader explained. Instead, “they’re looking for where there was error that would have led to an improper prosecution or an unfair trial.”

The appeals process would take several months to a year, she said. After the notice of appeal is given, the record of the case is gathered, including trial transcripts, the indictment, pretrial motions, evidentiary rulings, jury selection and instructions, and more. Trump could also appeal the sentencing. The lawyers need to write their arguments for all of the issues they’re objecting to, and that takes time, Bader said.

And then the appeals court needs to consider the case and write a decision on it.

If Trump ultimately isn’t successful at the appellate level, he can appeal to the highest court in New York state, which is called the  Court of Appeals . But the court decides whether or not it takes the case.

After such an appeal to the highest state court, the case would be over — unless Trump tries to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. But there has to be a U.S. constitutional issue for that. “I don’t see one,” Bader said, but perhaps Trump’s lawyers would try to make an argument.

What punishment could Trump face? Will he go to prison?

Whether Trump is sentenced to any time in prison is up to the judge.

Each of the 34 counts of  falsifying business records in the first degree , a class E felony, carries a maximum sentence of up to  four years in prison . The judge could decide to impose the sentences consecutively or simultaneously. However, under New York law,  20 years  is the maximum prison time that Trump could get — not 187 years, as Trump  falsely claimed  in his May 31 remarks.

Norman Eisen , a CNN legal analyst and a senior fellow in governance studies for the Brookings Institution, said that “in the most serious” cases of business records falsification in New York that he studied, “a sentence of imprisonment was routinely imposed.” Trump’s case “is the most serious one in NY history,”  he wrote  on X, predicting that Manhattan District Attorney Alvin “Bragg will likely ask for incarceration & Merchan will consider it.”

While possible, Bader, with Fordham’s School of Law, told us she doesn’t think incarceration will happen.

For a first-time convicted felon, with a low-level, nonviolent felony and a person of advanced age, “under any circumstance like that, there’d be a relatively low chance of incarceration,” she said.

“On the other hand, I could see the prosecutor arguing that here’s a man who has shown disrespect for the court system and the rule of law and has violated the court’s orders on numerous occasions. He is not remorseful. And that in order to promote general deterrence, he needs to be punished,” she said in describing a possible argument from the prosecutor.

Bader said any incarceration sentence “would be only a token amount of time to make the point that Trump is not above the law.” Other sentencing possibilities include probation or a “conditional discharge” with conditions other than incarceration or probation.

The “simplest” option might be for the judge to fine Trump, she said.

Can Trump vote in the 2024 election?

Yes, Trump can vote as long as he is not in jail on Election Day, which this year is on Nov. 5.

Trump owns homes in New York and Florida, but in 2019 he changed his primary residence to Florida. However, Florida law does not apply in Trump’s case because he was convicted in New York. Instead, New York law applies.

“If you were convicted outside Florida, your voting rights are governed by the state where you were convicted,” as the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida explains on its website.

In 2021, New York state enacted a law that “restores the right to vote for a person convicted of a felony upon release from incarceration, regardless of if they are on parole or have a term of post-release supervision,” the New York State Board of Elections says . “If a convicted felon is not incarcerated, they are eligible to register to vote.”

Can a felon run for president, hold office?

Yes. According to Article II, Section 1, Clause 5 of the U.S. Constitution, there are three qualifications to serve as president: He or she must be at least 35 years old upon taking office, a U.S. resident for at least 14 years and a “natural born Citizen, or a Citizen of the United States.”

“These qualifications are understood to be exclusive,” Josh Chafetz , a Georgetown University law professor, told us last year when we were writing about Trump’s federal indictment related to allegations of mishandling sensitive classified documents after he left office. “Anyone can be president so long as they meet the constitutional qualifications and do not trigger any constitutional disqualifications.”

“Someone can run for president while under indictment or even having been convicted and serving prison time,” said Chafetz, who pointed to the example of Eugene V. Debs, the late labor leader, who, in 1920, ran for president from prison on the Socialist Party ticket and got almost 1 million votes.

There is an exception to that rule. The Constitution says in Section 3 of the 14th Amendment that no U.S. officeholder, including the president, can serve if they are convicted of “engag[ing] in insurrection or rebellion” against the U.S. — something Trump has not been charged with either in this case or the three others he faces.

Six Colorado voters successfully sued in state court to prevent Trump from appearing on that state’s ballot, citing the constitutional amendment barring insurrectionists from holding federal office. But the U.S. Supreme Court reversed the state ruling, “[b]ecause the Constitution makes Congress, rather than the States, responsible for enforcing Section 3 against federal officeholders and candidates.”

Can Trump pardon himself on this conviction, if he wins?

The short answer is no.

Trump was convicted in New York for offenses in violation of state law. Article II, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution states that a president has the “[p]ower to grant reprieves and pardons for offences against the United States.” According to Constitution Annotated , a government-sanctioned record of the interpretations of the Constitution, that means the power extends to “federal crimes but not state or civil wrongs.”

In a case decided in 1925, Ex parte Grossman , the U.S. Supreme Court confirmed that interpretation, writing that the Constitution’s language specifying presidential pardon power for offenses “against the United States” was “presumably to make clear that the pardon of the President was to operate upon offenses against the United States as distinguished from offenses against the States.”

The New York governor has the power to pardon Trump for his conviction of crimes under state law. That’s currently Gov. Kathy Hochul, a Democrat. After the verdict, Republican Rep. Nick LaLota called on Hochul “to immediately announce her intention to pardon President Trump and pre-emptively commute any sentence. To not do so is to allow America to become a banana republic.” Hochul released a statement on May 30 saying, “Today’s verdict reaffirms that no one is above the law.”

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Checking Your Case Status Online

We are often asked how to verify the case status. It is a very simple process. You can verify your case status online from your home or office, even from your cell phone! You only have to access USCIS’ Case Status Online directly through uscis.gov.

The Case Status Online landing page shows other quick reference online tools, such as how to change your address online, how to submit an inquiry about your case (e-Request), case processing times and how to locate a USCIS office. To check your case status using our online tool, you have to have your case receipt number. This receipt number is a unique 13-character identifier that USCIS provides for each application or petition it receives, and it’s used to identify and track its cases. The receipt number consists of three letters followed by 10 numbers. For example, the letters can be EAC, WAC, LIN, SRC, NBC, MSC or IOE. You can find it on notices of action USCIS has sent you.

Case Status Online landing page. We encourage you to read USCIS privacy act statement, which appears under the “check status” button, before checking your case status.

When entering your receipt number, you should omit dashes (”-“), but you can include all other characters, including asterisks (“*”) if they are listed on your notice as part of the receipt number.

Enter your receipt number. Omit the dashes, but include all other characters including asterisks if they are listed on your notice as part of the receipt number.

The online system will show the last action taken on your case and will let you know the next steps, if applicable. We also provide helpful reminders to keep your address current and how to submit inquiries.

The system will show your case status and let you know next steps.

If you want to check an additional case now is the time to do so by entering a new receipt number in “Enter Another Receipt Number” field. Remember to try the other online tools on the homepage or create an account with USCIS at my.uscis.gov. The personalized account allows you to receive your most recent case updates including up to the last five actions on your case, simplifies case management, and access to your electronically filed applications. It is free and easy to use!

If you still have questions or concerns on any information you can check our website at uscis.gov or call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283.

Stillwater airport hosts TSA PreCheck enrollment events with IDEMIA

by Hadley Waldren

STILLWATER, OKLA (KOKH) — Stillwater Regional Airport, SWO, is hosting TSA PreCheck enrollment events.

The event is a part of a collaboration with IDEMIA.

Passengers can enroll or renew their membership at the terminal.

Enrollment events are held:

• June 10, 9:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. and 1:00-5:00 P.M.
• June 11, 9:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. and 1:00-5:00 P.M.
• June 12, 9:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. and 1:00-5:00 P.M.
• June 13, 9:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. and 1:00-5:00 P.M.
• June 14, 9:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M.

During the in-person appointment, applicants are required to provide identity and citizenship documents, fingerprints and a photo will be captured, and the application fee.

IDEMIA offers enrollment for $78.

If approved, travelers get a five-year membership with the program.

The TSA PreCheck Application Program is available for U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents.

If you are interested in enrolling in TSA PreCheck and cannot attend the SWO events, click here for online enrollment.

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Best sign-up bonus offers for June 2024:

• Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card : Best for choice of cash back category
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Biggest travel sign-up bonus
• Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card : Biggest business sign-up bonus
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card : Best airline sign-up bonus

What to know about credit card bonuses

• Types of welcome offers
• Best sign-up bonus by issuer
• What people say about the best sign-up bonus credit cards
• Tips on choosing the best sign-up bonus card for you

Expert advice for credit card bonuses

How we assess the best sign-up bonus credit cards.

• Frequently asked questions
• Ask the Experts

Credit range

A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.

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Card categories

Best for choice of cash back category

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

Bankrate score

Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.

Intro offer

• $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Rewards rate

Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases). Earn automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases). Earn unlimited 1% on all other purchases.

Regular APR

• 3% Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases).
• 2% Earn automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases).
• 1% Earn unlimited 1% on all other purchases.

What we love: The card offers a solid sign-up bonus, but the standout feature is its rewards structure, which allows you to pick one of six categories to earn cash back at a bonus rate. If you prefer flexible reward opportunities over top-tier rewards rates, the freedom to modify your rewards strategy could be more lucrative than a traditional rewards card in the long run. Learn more: Is the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card worth it? Alternatives: The Citi Custom Cash® Card could be easier to manage since one of 10 potential reward categories is automatically applied at the end of the billing cycle based on your spending — without requiring you to predict your expenses and change the card category. You’ll be able to earn a higher cash back rate on a wider variety of purchases while enjoying a similar welcome bonus and intro APR offer.

• The categories have uniquely broad merchant coverage, which helps make this card one of the most versatile available (especially for grocery and online shoppers).
• Bank of America Preferred Rewards® members can earn up to 75 percent more cash back on all purchases depending on their status.
• The $2,500 combined quarterly spending limit on the 3 percent and 2 percent cash back categories (then 1 percent cash back) could hobble big spenders’ rewards.
• The sign-up bonus spending requirement is double that of several rival cards’ offers for the same value.
• Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases.
• Choose 3% cash back on gas and EV charging station, online shopping/cable/internet/phone plan/streaming, dining, travel, drug store/pharmacy or home improvement/furnishings purchases.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 3.75%-5.25% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
• No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Biggest travel sign-up bonus

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program , showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.

5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠. 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries. 2x on all other travel purchases. 1x on all other purchases.

• 5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
• 3x 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries.
• 2x 2x on all other travel purchases.
• 1x 1x on all other purchases.

What we love: This card boasts a stellar signup bonus for the low annual fee. This value makes the card an excellent first travel card for travelers who want a quick influx of points without breaking the bank. Plus, the great travel perks, protections and card pairing opportunities help you keep the valuable momentum the sign-up bonus kickstarted. Learn more: Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred worth it? Alternatives: The best alternative depends on your spending and rewards preferences. The Citi Premier® Card has a similar welcome offer and redemption flexibility if you want more rewards on gas, hotel stays and airfare. However, the flat-rate Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card could offer a better long-term value (and sign-up bonus) if you prefer simple rewards.

• Your points value is boosted by 25 percent when redeemed through the Chase Travel℠ portal.
• Unlike some rival cards, there are plenty of annual perks to help offset the annual fee, including yearly bonus points and statement credits.
• This card lacks some of the perks you’ll find in more premium travel cards, like priority boarding.
• The sign-up bonus currently doesn’t weigh in at the chart-topping value it occasionally has in the past.
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC

Best business sign-up bonus

Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

• Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Rewards Rate

• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
• 1.5% Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business

What we love: A sign-up bonus of this card’s caliber is usually reserved for credit cards with an annual fee. This bonus can give cardholders with start-ups, side hustles and other small businesses a bit more flexibility, and other card features like the straightforward flat-rate rewards and intro APR solidify the Ink Business Unlimited as an economical option for budget-minded entrepreneurs. Learn more: Is the Ink Business Unlimited worth it? Alternatives: The Ink Business Cash® Credit Card can be a more well-rounded option with similar intro offers if you prefer a variety of higher-rate bonus categories, but The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card packs a higher flat rewards rate if you’re a fan of simplicity. 

• The intro APR on purchases is rare for a business card and can help cardholders manage spending like start-up expenses.
• The convenient rewards structure is great for business owners with a wide range of expenses traditional bonus categories might not cover.
• The sign-up bonus’ spending requirement can be high for some spenders, although the payoff is a better value than some business card offers’ requirements.
• The cash back rewards rates offered may not be on par with competing cards’ rewards structures.
• No Annual Fee
• Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
• Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases

Best airline sign-up bonus

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

• Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming. Earn 2X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

• 2X Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
• 2X Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• 2X Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
• 2X Earn 2X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners.
• 1X Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

What we love: It welcomes you aboard with a great sign-up bonus on par with its higher-tier Southwest counterparts. If you’re a frequent Southwest flyer on a budget, the card’s sign-up bonus and anniversary bonus can also give you a big leg up toward qualifying for a coveted Southwest companion pass — one of the best values on the airline card market. Learn more: Reasons to love the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Alternatives: The general-purpose Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the best alternatives due to its impressive rewards, versatility, perks and sign-up bonus — especially since Southwest Airlines is one of Chase’s transfer partners

• The card offers solid travel perks for a low-cost airline card, including handy lost and delayed baggage insurance plus your first two checked bags free (size and weight limits apply).
• The account anniversary bonus points, two annual EarlyBird Check-In boardings and checked baggage discounts can make it easier to recoup the annual fee.
• There is a 3 percent foreign transaction fee, which is a rare drawback for a travel card.
• The annual fee might be high for someone who only occasionally travels with Southwest.
• 3,000 anniversary points each year.
• Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
• Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
• 2 EarlyBird Check-In® each year.
• Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

Compare Bankrate's top sign-up bonus credit cards

On This Page

• What to know about sign-up bonus credit cards

When welcome offers are worth it

A credit card bonus — whether it’s called a sign-up bonus, intro bonus or welcome offer — is an incentive for new cardholders. In most cases, you’ll need to spend a certain amount on purchases with your new card within a specified time period (usually three to six months) to earn these bonuses. They mostly come as cash back , points or travel miles, but can also be one-time discounts or gift cards.

Credit card bonuses can offer great value if you can meet the spending requirement. Although many card bonuses have relatively low spending requirements of just a few hundred dollars over three months, some require you to spend $6,000 or more. If you’re comparing bonus offers, consider whether it offers a good return on your spending (at least 20 percent for a consumer card). Also keep in mind the value of any points or miles earned — 100,000 points with one hotel brand may not hold the same value as 60,000 miles with an airline.

Sign-up bonus pros and cons

Before you apply for a card because it has an enticing bonus, consider the pros and cons:

Competitive offers: People have plenty of credit card options, so card issuers offer strong bonuses to make their cards more attractive.

Versatile redemptions : A bonus can be cash back, points or miles, and you can often use rewards to book travel just as easily as to lower your balance.

Rewards for routine spending: Most cardholders will meet the spending requirements on several bonuses with routine spending, so you may not need to think much about earning them.

Spending requirements : Make sure the spending requirement fits your budget before applying for a card. Some bonuses carry spending requirements that will be difficult for the average person to meet without extra effort.

High interest rates: Bonuses are usually only available on cash back, business and rewards credit cards , which typically charge high interest rates. If you carry a balance from month to month, the interest you pay will undermine the value of the rewards and bonuses you earn.

Requires good credit: Most credit cards with bonuses require applicants to have good or excellent credit to qualify. Making on-time payments and keeping your account balances low are two of the most important ways to build credit fast .

Types of credit card bonuses

Credit card bonuses are typically distributed as additional cash back, points or miles. However, several types of welcome offers can be just as valuable — if not more so — than traditional, straightforward offers.

Bonus points, miles or cash back

These offers are the most straightforward to earn and are available on several credit cards. They’re great for anyone who wants to earn a lump sum payment for their short-term spending. The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is a great example of a card with great first-year value for low initial spending.

Additional perks, credits and other limited-time offers

Co-branded airline or hotel credit cards can offer perks like airfare companion passes or free night awards for meeting their bonus spending requirements. New cardholders can earn credits, perks or limited time offers for meeting spending requirements. One example is the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card , which includes Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ as part of its limited-time welcome offer. 

Limited-time bonus categories

Cards can sometimes offer boosted rewards rates in special bonus categories when you first open the card. These limited-time bonus categories usually expire after a certain time or when you reach a spending cap. For example, the Capital One Walmart Rewards® Mastercard® incentivizes Walmart shoppers with a boosted rewards rate for the first 12 months.

Reward-matching offers

This type of welcome offer doesn’t hold a set value. It’s based instead on your spending. These offers either boost your ongoing rewards rates for a set period or match the rewards you earn within a set period. These offers can be especially valuable for big spenders. The best example is the Cashback Match you can find on Discover’s rewards cards .

Approval bonuses

A credit card may provide an upfront bonus the moment you’re approved for the card instead of setting a spending requirement. An offer like this is more common among store credit cards, such as the Amazon gift card that comes with opening the Prime Visa card .

Best credit card bonuses by issuer

Different issuers offer various enticing rewards. Whether you're looking for cash back, travel points or other perks, knowing which issuers provide the best bonuses is important. However, it shouldn’t be your only deciding factor. You should choose a credit card based on all that it offers, not just its bonus. Here are some of the cards with the top offers from each issuer. 

American Express

• The Platinum Card® from American Express : You can earn a substantial amount of American Express Membership Rewards points, which are among the most valuable credit card rewards currencies.
• Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express : Secure a decent statement credit for minimal spending over a six-month period, which is twice as long as purchase periods on other cards.

Bank of America

• Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card : Earn an online cash rewards bonus that’s on par with most other welcome offers.
• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card : This card’s offer is valued at roughly $600. Although it has a $95 annual fee, this offer alone can offset that cost for six years. Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Capital One

• Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card : This card’s sign-up bonus offers one of the best return on spend rates available, rewarding cardholders with 45 percent of their spending requirement back as a cash bonus.
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : You can earn a welcome offer that we value to be over $1,000. This card has the same offer as its upgraded sibling, the Capital One Venture X Credit Card , but its annual fee is a fraction of the cost.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Chase Ultimate Rewards points are among the most valuable credit card rewards. According to our points and miles valuations, this card offers over $1,500 worth of travel rewards value with its sign-up bonus, which is generous on a card with a $95 annual fee. Get 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months.
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : This is perhaps the highest fixed sign-up bonus you’ll find on any credit card. Although its spending requirement is staggering, it has a modest annual fee.
• Citi Premier® Card : This sign-up bonus is the highest one that Citi offers, so new cardholders can start their Citi journey with a generously valued welcome offer to fund upcoming travel.
• Citi Double Cash® Card : The Double Cash card’s sign-up bonus is underwhelming compared to the Citi Premier card’s offer, but Premier cardholders can combine their points in the app for maximum redemption value.
• Discover it® Cash Back : Discover’s first-year sign-up bonus is the same for all of its rewards cards, so the value of your offer depends on how much cash back you earn.
• Discover it® Miles : Travelers who want a mile-for-mile sign-up bonus match can make the most of Discover’s Match®, which matches all the miles you earn at the end of your first year. 

Wells Fargo

• Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card : Wells Fargo’s top competitor with the Citi Double Cash for the best flat-rate cash back card tips the scales with its generous sign-up bonus because it has an industry-low spending requirement.
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Cardholders can passively earn this card’s offer with their normal, everyday spending. It will also reward generously, so the card’s value isn’t wrapped up entirely with its sign-up bonus.

Our data: Ranking credit card bonuses

Our points and miles valuations play a vital role when we’re evaluating and comparing credit card bonuses. After all, the number of points or miles that come with a bonus don’t mean much if their redemption value is low. Only by estimating the average redemption value of points and miles can we get a clear sense of the true value of a sign-up bonus. 

Many of the top rewards cards carry bonuses that are worth several hundreds or even thousands of dollars, but most carry a far lower value. 

Here’s a look at the top sign-up bonus offers currently available on this page, sorted by their estimated redemption value. You can also see the spending required to earn each bonus, as well as where its value ranks compared to the bonuses of other cards in the same category in our scoring database.

* Bonus values and rankings based on Bankrate’s points and miles valuations and the current bonus available on each card compared with the values of other cards’ bonuses in our rankings database.

As you can see, high-value bonuses don’t always offer the best return on spend, so the bonus that fits you best will depend not only on its total value, but also on your spending habits and which rewards are most useful to you.

Some bonuses are quite valuable but carry a high spending requirement, sometimes upwards of $1,000. With this in mind, it’s important to evaluate a credit card bonus based on the value it offers relative to the spending required. 

For example, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card’s requires you to spend $3,000 in your first three months to earn 85,000 points (worth around $1,275 based on Bankrate’s airline point valuations). That is about 75 percent return on your spending — one of the most generous ratios you’ll find.

Compare that with the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, which offers 85,000 Delta SkyMiles after you spend $4,000 in your first six months (worth around $1,020 based on our valuations). That’s a 25 percent return on spend.

While return on spend is only one factor to consider when evaluating a bonus, it’s an easy way to assess which welcome offers are the most generous. As a rule of thumb, aim to get at least a 20 percent return on spend.  You should also keep in mind the redemption value of the bonus, the total spending required, the timeframe and how useful the rewards currency is based on your goals.

Welcome offers may also encourage cardholders to spend more than they usually would just for the sake of earning the bonus . This spending behavior can lead you into debt and interest charges that have the potential to undermine your bonus and any ongoing rewards. You should avoid this kind of spending at all costs and don’t count on your credit card bonus to pay your balance. 

If you want to apply for a card with a valuable bonus, make sure you can meet its spending requirement with your routine spending, unless there are large purchases you’d already planned to make that will help you reach the bonus faster.

What people say about the best sign-up bonuses

In various online forums, including Reddit, many users have recently singled out Capital One credit cards as offering some of the best sign-up bonuses on the market. Capital One bonuses are often cited as a major draw for prospective cardholders and are credited with helping users quickly earn valuable rewards.

One user highlights the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card as offering an impressive sign-up and annual bonus, as well as great ongoing value (especially paired with the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card):

I like the Capital One duo ([the Venture X and SavorOne]). The [Venture X] will give a nice…sign up bonus, and the statement credits + anniversary points easily cover the [annual fee]. — Reddit User *

Another user cites the speed with which Capital One credits sign-up bonuses to cardholder accounts:

I like the lineup of Capital One cards. They always pay sign-up bonuses promptly, and they have good cash back with easy processes for redemption. They are also easier to deal with than the big banks. — Reddit User *

Along with praise for specific sign-up bonuses, users share general advice on how to find the rewards card that fits you best. One key point: Don’t let the bonus be the only feature you consider. 

One user emphasizes the importance of long-term value and picking the card that best fits your spending habits:

“No fee cards with modest bonuses are nice to take out routinely, but I try to be tactical about this where some of these cards have a long term use for specific categories…Hefty fee cards usually have higher bonuses, but [I] would encourage you to not force yourself to spend the money they offer - should be a natural fit into your life”  — Reddit User *

As you consider cards and card bonuses, you should also consider whether you can meet any spending requirements without overspending or going into debt. Additionally, create a plan for how you’ll redeem rewards to maximize the value of your sign-up bonus. * The quotes and citations included on this page have been verified by our editorial team and are accurate as of the posting date. Be sure to check the issuer's website/terms and conditions for all up to date content. Outlinked content may contain views and opinions that do not reflect the views and opinions of Bankrate.

To make the most of a credit card bonus , you should continue to make wise credit decisions and avoid debt to keep your balance manageable, otherwise you might offset the value of your new bonus with interest charges. It’ll pay to research your card well; the more you know about your redemption options the more valuable your offer can end up being.

Calculate the value of the sign-up bonus

It’s important to calculate the value of a sign-up bonus through the lens of your own financial goals. Although cards have different welcome offers, you can analyze many of them before applying to better understand which one fits your financial needs. Here are some quick tips for certain offers:

• Rewards cards:  If you want to earn travel points, look for a card that offers a bonus with points or miles and calculate the value of those points. Consider both the minimum redemption value offered by the rewards program as well as the potential value when you transfer to airline and hotel partners. You can use Bankrate’s points and miles valuation page as a guide when calculating the value of any potential bonus.
• Cash back cards: Calculating a cash back sign-up bonus is straightforward since the dollar amount is already determined. Still, it may help to evaluate the offer based on a value-to-spending ratio if you want the best value (and aren’t worried about the spending requirement). 
• Limited-time bonus categories: If you want to calculate a limited-time bonus category's welcome offer value, multiply your spending in that category or the category’s spending cap by the limited-time rewards rate to determine how much you can earn.

Spend normally

Only apply for cards with bonuses you can realistically reach

It's essential to use credit responsibly by making timely payments and staying within your budget. If you spend beyond your means you risk running up interest charges that can outpace the value of any bonus you earn. Deciding on the right card means choosing one that won’t pressure you to spend money you don’t have. If you need to spend money you can’t pay off right away to earn a one-time bonus, it might not be a good fit.

Research redemptions

Redeem your points or miles for the most value possible

If your bonus rewards you with points or miles, redeem your rewards wisely to make the most of it. Redeeming points and miles for cash back or gift cards typically results in the lowest value, usually 1 cent or less. However, redeeming points and miles on the issuer’s travel portal or transferring to travel partners can yield the best value.

Consider long-term value

Make sure the card fits well into your overall budget and lifestyle

New credit accounts lower your average account age, which can hurt your credit score. Avoid opening new cards just for the bonus, unless these cards will help you in the long term. While bonuses can be attractive incentives, they shouldn’t be the sole reason for choosing a credit card. Consider all aspects of the offer before making a decision that suits your financial goals and needs. Also, always remember to manage your credit responsibly by paying off balances in full each month and keeping track of any fees the card charges.

How this Bankrate expert chooses cards with sign-up bonuses

Here’s how Bankrate writer and credit card expert, Ryan Flanigan , filters through his options when looking for a new credit card with a sign-up bonus:

“Getting a good sign-up bonus is one of the most important factors to consider when opening a new card. I place a lot of focus on how the current offer compares to previous offers because getting a lower offer than what came before can be lost value. I also think about how the card will meet my needs overall. If I have a travel goal with an airline or hotel, a sign-up bonus can give me a big boost toward the amount of miles or points I need. Also, will any bonus categories help me earn more points while spending towards meeting the bonus? The more value I can extract initially, the better set up I'll be towards meeting my travel or cash back goals. Lastly, I consider if I can achieve the spending requirement in the allotted timeframe. The biggest mistake someone can make is failing to spend enough to earn the welcome bonus because you won't get another chance. If I have large upcoming expenses, I try to put them towards a new sign-up bonus. Strategic spending like this can help defray larger costs by giving me a bigger return. While there are definitely many factors to consider when picking the right card with an ideal sign-up bonus, I can get a ton of value when I manage my spending wisely.” — Ryan Flanigan, Writer, Credit Cards

When evaluating the best credit cards with sign-up bonuses, we consider both the quality of a card bonus itself and the card’s long-term value, including its cost and perks. 

We calculate the value of each card’s bonus based on our internal point and mile valuations (assuming it’s not a cash bonus) and compare this to the value of bonuses available on cards in a similar category and at a similar price level. We also consider the spending required to earn each bonus.

After identifying cards that carry valuable bonuses with a high return on spend, we factor in how cards score overall in our proprietary card rating system and whether they offer features that fit the priorities of a diverse group of cardholders, from earning rewards to scoring a large sign-up bonus to saving on interest. 

We analyzed over 250 of the most popular credit cards and selected standouts with high-value sign-up bonuses. We scored each card based on the factors most relevant to its primary category, including its rewards rate, estimated annual earnings, intro APR period, ongoing APR, perks and more to determine whether it belonged in this month’s roundup. 

Here’s a quick look at the factors that make up our card scoring methodology for rewards, cash back and business cards (the card types most likely to offer sign-up bonuses), along with more information on how we assess the quality of sign-up bonuses themselves.

Rewards & cash back card scoring factors

• Flexibility 15%
• Customer experience 5%

Business card scoring factors

• Flexibility 20%
• Customer experience 20%

Bonus value & return on spend

Unless you’re focused on earning a specific type of rewards, the redemption value of a credit card bonus is typically more important than the raw bonus amount (after all, 100,000 points with one rewards program can be worth less than 60,000 points with another). 

As such, we take into account not only how many points or miles a bonus offers, but also the redemption value of those rewards. The higher the its bonus redemption value, the more likely a card is to earn a spot on our list of the best credit cards with a sign-up bonus. We also consider the return on spend offered by each bonus. While a bonus may offer terrific value, it may not be a great option overall if it requires an inordinate amount of spending to earn. 

For example, a card that offers a bonus worth $500 after $3,000 in spending (a 17 percent return on spend) is less likely to make our list of top picks than a card that offers a bonus worth $200 with only a $500 spending requirement (a 40 percent return on spend), despite the latter bonus carrying a much lower redemption value.

Attainable spending requirement

Along with a sign-up bonus’ return on spend, we consider how easy it will be for the average cardholder to meet the spending requirement. Even if a card bonus boasts a high-value bonus and a terrific return on spend, its spending requirement may be too high for many people to reach, limiting its appeal. For example, a card that offers a bonus worth $5,000 after $20,000 in spending is less likely to make our list of top picks than a card that offers a bonus worth $1,000 after $4,000 in spending.

Ongoing rewards value

Since many cardholders looking for sign-up bonuses are eager to earn rewards, a key criteria for a card’s inclusion in our list is whether it offers impressive rewards value. This includes a card’s average rewards rate, estimated annual rewards earnings, and reward redemption value.

To estimate a card’s average annual rewards earnings, we calculate its average rewards rate based on how much it earns in different bonus categories, as well as how closely those categories match the average person’s spending habits. In other words: Does the card earn rewards at a high rate in the most popular spending categories?

We use consumer spending data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to get a reliable third-party measure of people’s spending habits. The most recent BLS data estimates average total spending in 2021 was $66,928 per consumer. We then narrow our focus to which purchases are likely to be put on a credit card and earn rewards, subtracting expenditures like housing, vehicle purchases and education. This gives us a total “chargeable” annual spend of around $22,500.  

This includes the following spending by category:

• Groceries: $5,200
• Dining out: $3,000
• Entertainment: $2,500
• Gas: $2,100
• Apparel and services: $1,700

Using this data, we assign a weighting to each of a card’s bonus categories. For example, a card’s grocery rewards rate receives a 23 percent weighting based on how much of the average person’s budget is spent on groceries. We also estimate the redemption value of points or miles from various issuer, airline and hotel rewards programs.

This weighting and rewards valuation allows us to estimate a card’s average annual rewards earnings — how many points or miles you’d earn with a given card if your spending was about average and you used the card for all of your purchases — as well as what those points are worth. We also use point valuations to determine a card’s sign-up bonus value

With these calculations complete, we assign each card a score based on how its average rewards earnings, sign-up bonus value, rewards rate and redemption value stack up against other cards in its primary category.

The better these values, the higher its score will be, making it more worthy of inclusion in our list and increasing its potential ranking.

Reasonable fees and APR

We also rate all cards based on how their ongoing average APR compares to the average APR you’ll find other cards in their primary category. However, the impact of an especially high or low APR on a card’s overall score depends on its primary category.

For rewards-earning cards, this factor has only a minor influence on the card’s score and whether the card is included in our list, since rewards card users generally try to avoid carrying a balance. That said, rewards-earning cards may get a solid boost in score and be more worthy of inclusion in our list if they also offer an intro APR on balance transfers or new purchases, since such offers aren’t always present on these cards.

More important to these cards’ scores and their inclusion in our list is how their annual fees influence their overall value. We consider a card’s annual fee in two ways — how it ranks relative to the fees you’ll find on other cards in the category and how it impacts a card’s overall rewards value. 

Cards with an annual fee will always be at a slight disadvantage in our scoring system since annual fees inherently cut into your rewards value. However, if a card offers terrific value via its ongoing rewards and perks, it can earn a high score and a spot in our list even if it carries a high annual fee. After all, the highest rewards rates and most valuable perks are often found on cards with annual fees.

Interest rates and intro APR offers play a much larger role in a card’s score and whether it’s included in our list when the card is designed specifically for users looking to save on interest charges, such as dedicated balance transfer or low-interest cards. 

Other fees considered include cash advance and late payment fees, along with penalty APRs. 

Flexibility and perks

Along with rewards value and cost, we consider other factors that could give cards great long-term value, like flexible rewards redemption and especially unique and valuable perks.

We rate rewards-earning cards based on the restrictions they impose on earning and redeeming rewards and consider this when deciding on a card’s inclusion in our list. 

These restrictions could include only allowing users to earn a high rewards rate on a small amount of spending or requiring users to meet a certain earning threshold before they can redeem rewards. We also examine whether points are worth less when you opt for some redemption options over others and whether a card gives you the flexibility to transfer rewards to airline and hotel partners. 

We also evaluate each card’s perks based on their value, usefulness and uniqueness. Cards that offer top-tier benefits like airport lounge access or travel credits are likely to stand out, but we also aim to highlight cards that offer valuable under-the-radar perks, like cellphone protection or one-off credits for everyday expenses like dining and streaming services.

Frequently asked questions about credit cards with sign-up bonuses

Are credit card sign-up bonuses tax deductible, which cards have the best sign-up bonus.

• Chase Sapphire Preferred : 75,000 points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months.
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : 75,000 points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months.
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months.
• Capital One Spark Cash Plus : Earn a one-time cash bonus of $1,200 once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months.
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : 100,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months.

What credit card sign-up bonuses are the easiest to get?

Can you open multiple cards at once to get more sign-up bonuses, ask the experts: should i continually look to apply for new cards, so that i can keep earning sign-up bonuses.

Erica Sandberg

Thomas Nitzsche

Stephanie Zito

Contributor, Credit Cards

Sign-up bonuses are fabulous. They enable you to earn cash back, points, or miles after you hit the minimum spend. However, many credit card companies have rules in place that prevent you from earning the bonus each time you open a new account with them. Check the issuer’s restrictions before you keep opening new credit card accounts. Still, even with an attractive bonus, you should only pursue the credit cards you need and will use. After all, every card you have must be managed, so if you have too many, you may unnecessarily complicate your life!

Financial Educator, Debt and Credit

There’s nothing wrong with opening a new account to earn a bonus, but keep in mind two factors that can negatively impact your credit score. First, frequent hard pulls of your credit report, which are required as part of a new account application process, may lower your score. Second, having too many accounts with a short length of credit history, may also have a negative effect. For these reasons, it’s typically not a good idea to constantly open new lines of credit. Opening one or two new lines per year is usually fine, but take care to pay off balances in full every month so that you don’t negate the benefit of the sign-up bonuses by paying high interest rates on revolving balances.

Contributor, Personal Finance

Sign-up bonuses are a great benefit of some new credit cards, but you’ll want to be strategic about how often you’re applying for new cards just to get the big bonus points. Opening new lines of credit does affect your credit score, so apply wisely — especially if you’re considering applying for a large line of credit like a mortgage where your score plays an important factor. Many banks have also instituted rules about frequent bonus earning. You may not be able to get a bonus more than once in a lifetime, or within a lengthy time period, on a specific card, so you’ll want to check these rules first. It’s not bad to have multiple cards, but it’s important to consider your short and longer term earning plan before you start applying.

Article sources

We use primary sources to support our work. Bankrate’s authors, reporters and editors are subject-matter experts who thoroughly fact-check editorial content to ensure the information you’re reading is accurate, timely and relevant.

“ What is New Credit? ” myFICO. Accessed on May 14, 2024.

“ Consumer Expenditures 2022 ,” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed on May 14, 2024.

* See the online application for details about terms and conditions for these offers. Every reasonable effort has been made to maintain accurate information. However all credit card information is presented without warranty. After you click on the offer you desire you will be directed to the credit card issuer's web site where you can review the terms and conditions for your selected offer.

Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, is accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the bank’s website for the most current information.

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