How do Credit Cards Work & How to Build Credit

How to Compare Credit Card Interest Rates

Learn how to compare credit card interest rates, including APR types, fees and factors that affect the true cost of borrowing.

What Credit Cards Does Costco Accept?

Costco only accepts Visa credit cards at the checkout counter and gas pump. Earn cash back when you shop at Costco with the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi.

How to Apply for a Student Credit Card

Discover how to apply for a student credit card, what you need to qualify and how using a student card responsibly can help get you started on your credit journey.

What are the Advantages of Credit Cards?

Explore the advantages of credit cards and the benefits of using a credit card like rewards, fraud protection, credit building, and much more.

What Is a Secured Credit Card and How Does it Work?

A secured credit card requires a deposit to secure your credit limit. Learn how to build or rebuild credit with a secured credit card and the pros & cons of a secured credit card.

Secured Credit Cards vs. Unsecured Credit Cards

Learn the difference between secured and unsecured credit cards and how to choose the right card option for your financial goals.

How to Apply for a Citi Credit Card

Find out how to prepare to apply for a Citi credit card, what information you'll need and how to submit a credit card application online or in person.

How to Prevent Credit Card Fraud

Credit card fraud can strike at any time. Learn about what credit fraud is, how to protect your accounts and how to prevent credit card fraud.

Can you Withdraw Cash From a Credit Card?

Getting cash from a credit card is a simple process. Learn where and how to get cash advances from your credit card, as well as the drawbacks of cash advances.

Credit Score Needed for the Citi Double Cash® Credit Card

The Citi Double Cash® Credit Card offers unlimited cash back on purchases, but what credit score is needed for approval? Explore the Citi Double Cash® card.

How to Apply for Your First Credit Card: A Helpful Guide for Beginners

How do you apply for your first credit card? First-time credit card applicants can find helpful tips and advice about how to apply for and use their first credit card.

What Is a Fair Credit Score?

A fair credit score can have an impact on your financial opportunities. Learn how to improve your credit score.

5 Reasons to Consider the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card By Citi

Check out these 5 reasons to consider the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi, from Costco Cash Back Rewards to travel benefits.

Unlock Costco Credit Card Benefits with the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

What are the benefits of the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi? Learn about benefits like Costco Cash Back Rewards, convenience and entertainment access.

Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi Travel Benefits

Discover travel benefits for the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi, such as cash back rewards on eligible travel, gas and EV charging.

When to Apply for a Credit Card

Wondering when to apply for a credit card? Learn the best time to apply, whether you should get a credit card now and how pre-qualification works.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Credit Card?

At what age can you get a credit card? Learn about credit card age requirements, how to know if you're ready to apply and how to find the right credit card for you.

How to Calculate Credit Card Interest

Struggling with high credit card payments? Learn how to calculate credit card interest and understand how to calculate interest on a credit card for better budgeting.

How to Build Credit with a Secured Credit Card

Want to use a secured credit card to build credit? Read on to learn how to do it, tips to succeed and how long it may take.

How to Build Credit

Learn how to help build credit, including how to get your credit report, what your credit score means and how to use credit cards to build credit.

Smart Credit Card Tips

Responsible credit card users typically don’t max out credit card limits and avoid closing cards. Discover smart credit card tips to help build your financial knowledge.

5 Financial Habits of People with Excellent Credit

Read about 5 ways people with excellent credit scores manage their debt and maintain high credit ratings. These tips from people with great credit scores may help you to get on the right track.

11 Credit Card Tips You Should Know

Looking for credit card advice? Check out these credit card tips. Following these 11 simple tips can help you make the most of your credit card.

How to Avoid Interest on Your Credit Card

Credit card interest can add up quickly. Learn how credit card interest works and how you can avoid being charged credit card interest.

How to Get A Business Credit Card For Startups

Considering a business credit card for your startup? The right business credit card can offer spending power and more benefits for your new business

How Credit Card Minimum Payments Work

Making your credit card minimum payment by the due date can help you avoid penalties. Read on to learn how credit card minimum payments are calculated.

Tips to Become a Smart Credit Card User

Responsible credit card users don’t max out credit limits and avoid closing cards. Discover smart ways to use a credit card and build your financial knowledge.

How to Help Build Credit

Learn how to help build credit, including how to get your credit report, how credit cards work, what your credit score means and how to check on your financial health.

How to Apply for the Shop Your Way Mastercard®

Learn about the Shop Your Way Mastercard® and how to apply, including what to have ready before you apply and where to fill out the application.

How to Earn Shop Your Way Points with the Shop Your Way Mastercard®

Learn how to earn Shop Your Way Points with the Shop Your Way Mastercard®, and which categories can earn you more points.

How Does a Student Credit Card Work?

Learn how student credit cards work with our comprehensive guide. Discover the benefits and tips for responsible use to build credit and manage finances.

How to Choose a Student Credit Card

Looking for a student credit card? Learn what features student credit cards can offer and how to choose which card is right for you.

How to Start Building Credit With Little or No Credit History

Learn how to build credit with little or no credit history by following tips like using secured cards and becoming an authorized user.

Benefits of Using a Costco Anywhere Visa <sup>®</sup> Card by Citi for Gas Purchases

Learn more about earning Costco Cash Back Rewards on your gas purchases when you use the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi.

What Is the APR for the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card?

If you’re approved for the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi, your APR will be determined by factors like your credit history and credit score.

How to Pre-Qualify for a Credit Card

To pre-qualify for credit cards, you need to meet specific requirements. Learn about these standards to see if you could be pre-qualified for any credit cards.

What to Look for in a Credit Card

Wondering how to choose the right credit card? Explore what to look for when getting a credit card, including features and tips to meet your financial objectives.

Is a Credit Score Needed for the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card

Several factors, such as credit score, income, and recent applications can affect your chance of approval for the Costco Anywhere Visa® by Citi.

Credit Card vs. Debit Card | What's the Difference?

What's the difference between a debit card and a credit card, and which should you use? Learn more about credit and debit cards, including the pros and cons of each.

How Do Credit Card Refunds Work?

Learning about credit card refunds? Discover how a refund on a credit card works and the timeline for processing returns. Get the facts on credit card refunds.

Does the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card Charge Foreign Transaction Fees?

Learn what a foreign transaction fee is and whether the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi charges foreign transaction fees on international purchases.

What Is the Credit Limit for the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card?

If you’re approved for the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi, your credit limit will be determined by factors like your income and credit score. Learn more.

How to Apply for the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card

Learn how to apply for the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi and, if approved, start earning Costco Cash Back Rewards anywhere Visa® is accepted.

What Is a Negative Balance on a Credit Card?

If you have a negative balance on your credit card, it means your credit card issuer owes you money. Learn more about what it means to have a negative balance on your card.

What Is Credit Utilization Ratio?

Learn what credit utilization ratio is, how it can impact your creditworthiness and how your credit utilization ratio is calculated.

How to Avoid Credit Card Fees and Charges

From interest charges to late fees, learn about common credit card fees and charges, when they may apply and strategies for avoiding them when necessary.

What Is the Credit Card Closing Date?

The final day of your billing cycle is called your credit card closing date. Learn what your closing date means and how it differs from your payment due date.

Different Types of Credit Cards

Learn about various credit card types—cash back, travel, rewards, secured, and more—to help you choose the best card for your financial goals.

Statement Balance vs. Current Balance: What’s the Difference?

Your statement balance is calculated at the end of your billing statement. Your current balance reflects real-time charges. Discover which to pay on your payment due date.

How to Increase Your Credit Limit

It's possible to increase your credit limit on a credit card. You can request a credit limit increase, or your lender may increase your limit automatically.

Does Applying for a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit?

Applying for a credit card usually triggers a hard credit inquiry, which can temporarily affect your credit. Learn how applying for a credit card can affect your credit.

What Is an Unsecured Credit Card?

Most credit cards are unsecured. Unlike secured credit cards, unsecured credit cards don’t require a security deposit. Learn more.

Does Paying Rent Build Credit?

Does paying rent build credit? Learn how rent reporting works, how on-time payments can help to strengthen credit and when it may help your credit score.

Charge Card vs. Credit Card: Key Differences

You can use both charge cards and credit cards to make purchases, but charge cards typically don’t have a credit limit, and you must pay your full statement balance each month.

Is Closing a Credit Card Bad?

Is closing a credit card bad? Learn how canceling a card can affect your credit score, when it makes sense and potential alternatives.

What to Do When You Lose Your Credit Card

If you lost a credit card, there are immediate steps to take, including freezing your card and reporting the loss, to help protect your account. Learn more about handling a lost credit card and preventing fraud in the future.

How Do Credit Card Payments Work?

Learn how credit card payments work, including how late fees, interest charges and grace periods can affect your credit card payments.

What Is a Credit Card Statement?

Your credit card statement includes information about your payments, charges, credits, account and more. Learn how to read your credit card statement.

What Is a Credit Card PIN?

A credit card PIN (personal identification number) is a security measure that allows you to use your credit card for cash advances and foreign transactions.

Is It a Good Idea to Have Multiple Credit Cards?

Is having multiple credit cards worth it? Learn about the benefits and potential drawbacks. Find tips for managing multiple cards successfully.

Soft Inquiry vs. Hard Inquiry: Credit Checks Explained

Hard credit inquiries can lower your credit score, while soft inquiries don't affect your score. Learn more about the difference between hard and soft credit inquiries.

What is a Credit Report?

Learn what a credit report is, including how to request your credit report, how to read it, what information it includes and what to do if you see errors.

Understanding Credit Card Grace Periods

Understand credit card grace periods and how they work. Learn how to use grace periods to avoid interest on new purchases.

How to Send Money With a Credit Card

It’s possible to send money to someone else’s bank account with a credit card. Explore popular platforms and discover alternatives to minimize costs.

Can You Reopen a Closed Credit Card?

Wondering if you can reopen a closed credit card? Learn issuer policies, reactivation options and alternatives to reapplying for a closed credit card.

How to Cancel a Credit Card

Learn how to cancel a credit card, reasons you might cancel a credit card and how canceling a credit card can affect your creditworthiness.

What is Residual Interest?

Learn what residual interest is, how it works on credit cards and how to avoid trailing interest charges by paying your balance in full each month.

How to Report Credit Card Fraud: Steps, Signs, and Prevention

Learn how to report credit card fraud, recognize the warning signs and take the right steps. Discover tips for credit card fraud reporting and preventing future incidents.

Credit Card vs. Cash: Which to Use

Sometimes it makes sense to use credit over cash and vice versa. Learn about the pros and cons of using credit cards and cash.

What Is a Credit Card Charge Off?

A credit card charge-off happens after a borrower has missed several payments and the issuer no longer believes it will be repaid. Learn about charge-offs, how they affect credit and how to avoid them.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Credit Card?

Discover how long it usually takes to get a credit card, from approval to delivery. Read on to learn factors that affect timelines and tips to speed up the process.

Does a Credit Limit Increase Affect Your Credit Score?

Wondering how a credit limit increase impacts your credit score? Learn how an increase can impact your credit utilization ratio and more.

What is a Credit Freeze?

Freezing your credit can help block potential fraud by preventing new loans or lines of credit from being taken out in your name. Read on to learn how to freeze and unfreeze your credit.

What to Know About Credit Card Expiration Dates

Credit cards have expiration dates, but that doesn’t mean your account is closed. Here’s what you need to know about credit card expiration dates.

The Difference Between Credit Report and Credit Score

What are credit scores and reports? Learn what they are and explore how a credit report and credit score influence financial health.

Can You Buy a Car With a Credit Card?

While you can typically use a credit card for just about anything, car dealerships may not accept credit cards as a way to make a full payment on a car.

How Long Does It Take for a Credit Card Payment to Post?

Find out how long credit card payments take to process, factors affecting processing times and tips to avoid delays and ensure timely payments.

Why Was My Credit Card Declined?

Learn why your credit card might be declined, from insufficient credit to fraud alerts or expired cards. Discover solutions and tips to prevent declines in the future.

How to Upgrade Your Credit Card

If your credit card isn't the best fit for you anymore, you might decide to request an upgrade. Learn what a credit card upgrade is and how to request one.

What Happens If You Don't Use Your Credit Card?

Wondering what happens if you don’t use your credit card? Learn how prolonged 'inactivity can affect your account, plus find tips to keep your card active.

Can You Pay Utilities and other Bills With a Credit Card?

While you may be able to pay some of your utilities and other bills with a credit card, there may be fees. Explore the pros and cons of paying bills with a credit card.

What Is a Contactless Credit Card? Tap-to-Pay Explained

A contactless credit card lets you pay for purchases without swiping or inserting your card. Learn how contactless cards work and how to use them.

Does Closing a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit?

Closing a credit card can affect your credit mix and potentially your creditworthiness. Learn whether you should close a credit card or try alternatives.

How to Find Out What Credit Cards You May Qualify For

See what credit cards you may qualify for with pre-qualification. Pre-qualification uses a soft inquiry, which won't impact your credit.

What Does it Mean to Be Pre-Qualified for a Credit Card?

Learn what pre-qualification means for a credit card and how to check for pre-qualified credit card offers without affecting your credit score.

How to See If You’re Pre-Qualified for a Credit Card

Learn what pre-qualification means for a credit card and how to check for offers to find a card without affecting your creditworthiness.

Does Pre-Qualification Affect Your Credit Score?

Credit card pre-qualification doesn't hurt your credit score. Use the Citi pre-screening tool to find personalized offers and compare credit cards.

Pre-Qualified vs. Pre-Approved For a Credit Card: What’s The Difference?

Pre-qualifying and being pre-approved for a credit card can mean you’ll likely be approved if you apply, but they’re not guarantees. Learn more.

Business Credit Cards vs. Personal Credit Cards: 5 Key Differences

Learn the key differences between business and personal credit cards, including benefits and eligibility requirements, to determine the right option for you.

Can You Get a Credit Card With No Deposit?

Some types of credit cards – secured cards – require a security deposit, while unsecured cards do not. Learn more about credit cards with no security deposit.

How to Activate Your Citi Credit Card

You have several options to activate your credit card, including online, by phone or in the Citi Mobile® app. The exact steps depend on the method you choose.

Why Was My Credit Card Application Denied?

There are many reasons why credit card applications can be denied. Read on to learn 9 potential factors that can determine credit card approval and how to move forward.

How to Apply for a Credit Card Online

Applying for a credit card online may require personal and financial documentation. Learn how online credit card applications work and what you need to apply.

What Do You Need to Get a Credit Card?

Learn what information you typically need to provide when you apply for a credit card, as well as creditworthiness and other factors lenders may consider.

Does Getting Denied for a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit?

If your application for a new credit card is denied, it doesn't impact your credit score any more than applying and getting approved for a credit card does.

What Is a Business Credit Card and How Does It Work?

Business credit cards are designed for business owners and employees to make purchases. They function similarly to personal credit cards. Learn more.

Can You do a Soft Pull if Your Credit is Frozen?

Soft credit inquiries are typically still possible when your credit is frozen. Learn more about soft inquiries and freezing your credit.

Pros and Cons of Freezing Credit

Freezing your credit can help prevent fraud, but it may come with some drawbacks. Learn more about the pros and cons of freezing your credit.

Foreign Transaction Fee vs. Currency Conversion Fee

If you travel abroad, you may encounter foreign transaction fees and currency conversion fees. Learn what they are and ways to avoid them.

Does Freezing Your Credit Affect Your Credit Score?

A credit freeze prevents anyone from opening a new account in your name, but it doesn't affect your credit score. Learn more about credit freezes.

What Are Tradelines and How Do They Impact Credit?

A tradeline is an account listed on your credit report. Learn what tradelines are, how they can affect your credit score and tips for managing them responsibly.

What Credit Score Do You Need to Qualify for the Citi Strata℠ Card? 

A number of factors, including income and creditworthiness, can affect your chances of approval for Citi Strata℠ Card. Learn more. 

Citi Strata Elite® Card Purchase Protection Benefit

Discover how the Citi Strata Elite® Card’s purchase protection works, including what’s covered, how to file a claim and important exclusions.

Is a Credit Score Required for the Citi Strata Premier Card?

Several factors, including creditworthiness, debt-to-income ratio and income, can impact your chances of approval for Citi Strata Premier®. Learn more. 

What Credit Score Do You Need for the Citi Strata Elite<sup>®</sup> Card?

Find out what credit score you may need for the Citi Strata Elite® Card and learn what factors affect approval, including income and creditworthiness.

11 Helpful Credit Card Tips for Beginners

Looking for credit card tips? Explore our guide with credit card tips for beginners, as well as credit card tips and tricks to help you handle your finances.

Credit Card Due Date vs. Closing Date: What’s the Difference?

Learn the difference between a credit card due date and closing date. Discover how these dates affect your payments, interest charges and account management.

Does Your Business Credit Card Impact Your Personal Credit?

If you’re the primary cardholder for a business credit card, there are some ways in which it can impact your personal credit. Learn more.

Why is My Credit Card Not Working?

Wondering why your credit card is not working in-store or online? Learn common reasons your card may be declined and practical steps you can take to resolve the issue.

A Guide to Over-the-Limit-Fees

Learn what a credit card over-the-limit fee is and when it may be charged or reversed. Understand your options for over-the-limit fees.

What Is a Purchase APR?

Learn what a purchase APR is, when it applies and how it affects your credit card balance. Understand how to reduce interest by managing a purchase APR wisely.

What Is a Credit Card Balance?

Learn what a credit card balance is, how it’s calculated and how managing it can help you avoid interest charges and support your credit score. 

Using a Credit Card for Online Shopping

Learn what to look for in a credit card for online shopping, including fraud protection, rewards and security tips for safe and convenient purchases.

How Long Do Hard Inquiries Stay On Your Credit Report?

Find out how long hard inquiries stay on your credit report, how they affect your credit score and what you can do to limit their impact over time.

Does Upgrading a Credit Card Affect Credit Score?

Find out if upgrading your credit card can impact your credit score. Learn how issuers handle upgrades and what to ask before making a change.

When Is the Best Time to Pay Your Credit Card?

Learn when to pay your credit card to avoid interest, reduce your credit utilization and support your credit score with smart payment timing.

What is a Credit Card CVV Number?

The CVV (card verification value) is a credit card security feature. Learn more about CVVs, where to find them and why they matter for online and phone transactions.

FICO Score vs. Credit Score: What’s the Difference?

Learn the difference between a FICO score and a credit score. Understand how they're calculated, which lenders use, and why your scores may vary.

Can You Overdraft a Credit Card?

It may be possible to overdraft your credit card if you've opted in to over-limit protections. Learn more about credit card overdrafts and how to avoid them.

What Credit Score Do You Start With?

Find out when your credit score is first generated, what factors influence it and how to start building strong credit from the beginning.

What Is a Flat-Rate Cash Back Credit Card?

Learn how flat-rate cash back credit cards work, how they compare to tiered rewards cards and what to consider when choosing one for everyday spending.

Can You Change Your Credit Card Due Date?

You may be able to change your credit card due date online or by calling your issuer. Read on to learn how to request it and what to consider first.

What Happens If You Miss a Credit Card Payment?

If you miss a credit card payment, you may face penalties and credit score damage. Read on to learn more about the impacts and how to navigate missed payments.

What is Creditworthiness?

Learn the definition of creditworthiness, what factors influence it and get tips on improving creditworthiness to secure better credit terms and lower interest rates.

What Is a Finance Charge on a Credit Card?

A credit card finance charge can include things like interest and fees. Read on to learn how finance charges are calculated and when they apply.

What Is Provisional Credit and How Does It Work?

Learn what provisional credit means, when it’s issued during a dispute and what happens after the investigation ends. Explore provisional credit.

Is It Good to Pay Your Credit Card Early?

Learn whether paying your credit card early can help you avoid interest, reduce your balance and boost your credit score and when it makes sense to do so.

Prepaid Debit Card vs. Secured Credit Card

Prepaid debit cards and secured credit cards are both cash alternatives, but they work differently once set up. Read on to learn the differences, including how they work and how to choose.

Do Prepaid Cards Build Credit?

Find out whether prepaid credit cards can help build your credit. Learn how they work, why they don’t affect your credit score and what to use instead.

How to Apply for the Citi Strata Elite℠ Card

Ready to upgrade your travel experience? Learn how to apply for the Citi Strata Elite℠ Card to access premium travel perks for your next trip.

APR vs. Interest Rate on Credit Cards

Learn the difference between an APR vs. interest rate on a credit card, how they impact your finances, and what to look for when applying for one.

Can You Use a Personal Credit Card for Business?

There are risks to using a personal credit card for business expenses. Learn the benefits of having a business credit card and reasons to keep expenses separate.

How to apply for the Citi Double Cash® Card | Citi.com

Learn how to apply for the Citi Double Cash® Card step- by- step. Explore the benefits of this credit card, the conditions to know, and how to pre-qualify.

Why Get a Credit Card to Pay for Internet Bills?

Credit cards can offer internet subscription benefits that you won’t get with debit cards. Discover the benefits of using a credit card to pay for your internet.

Citi Credit Knowledge Center

Understanding Credit Cards