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News: Many Consumers Don't Research Credit Cards Before They Apply - Credit-Land.com

Researching a credit card before getting it can ensure that ou get the card that best meets your needs. Whether you're looking to earn miles for flights or just plain cash back, there's a card designed for you.

But according to a new study by U.S. News & World Report, just about half of people do some research to see what the card actually offers. Also, half of these consumers admitted that they don't usually shop around to find the best card.

In this study, U.S. News Money took a close look at what preferences are when it came to earning and using rewards. Why do people choose the cards they ultimately decide to apply for? The top three reasons are:

  • No annual fees

  • How fast they can earn rewards and perks

  • The rewards themselves

Yet while rewards factor into their decision, some people fail to optimize their rewards cards, with 25% saying that they tend to carry a balance about seven times per year. This trend can actually cost cardholders more in terms of interest and fees than the make from the rewards they actually earn with their card.

"There are dozens of rewards credit cards to choose from," said Kimberly Castro, executive editor at U.S. News. "But, consumers need to do their research to find the right card for their specific financial situation. By carrying a balance or not shopping around, they're leaving money on the table," she added.

Cash back, miles or something else?

When they asked consumers whether they preferred earning miles, points, cash back or something else, getting cash back took the top spot, with 43% saying that over the last year, they traded their rewards in for cashback or they had asked for a statement credit.

Travel was also hot. Airline rewards came in right behind getting cash back, with 23% of people opting for airline tickets or upgrades. And last but not least, 16% of people used their rewards to score a gift card or two.

Top rewards cards

U.S. News & World Report also published their list of top rewards cards. Their picks include:

  • Chase Freedom

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred

  • Ink Business Preferred

  • Gold Delta SkyMiles Credit Card from American Express

  • Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

  • Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express

  • Hilton Honors Ascend Card from American Express

tags : American Express Banks Hotel Online Application

Disclaimer: This editorial content is not provided or commissioned by the credit card issuer(s). Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of the credit card issuer(s), and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the credit card issuer(s). Reasonable efforts are made to present accurate information, however all information is presented without warranty. Consult a card's issuing bank for the terms & conditions.
All rates and fees, and other terms and conditions of the products mentioned in this article/post are actual as of the last update date but are subject to change. See the current products' Terms & Conditions on the issuing banks' websites.