So you’re trying to open a credit card but you don’t know which one? The endless options of cash back and all sorts of benefits flow across your phone screen as you read about it online. There is one simple rule I live by when it comes to my credit cards and that is: How do I personally benefit from using this?
Having a credit card is like having that one friend who says, “Well I did this for you, so what are you going to do for me?” A relationship that is solely based on how one benefits the other. While that can seem immature and annoying, that is how you should think when it comes to a credit card. While there are so many options to choose from, I am going to share two that are personal favorites of mine, and they’re ones that have helped me establish credit while in college.
Discover Student Credit Card:
This credit card was the first one I got during the pandemic. I had no credit history and I needed something that could get me one step closer to my goal of financial freedom. So I applied for one and was immediately approved. What caught my attention was the 5% cash back benefits students receive during the school year. At first, I simply used my credit card for gas, and when it came time for my monthly payment, I would use the cash back to pay off the card in full. Which not only saved me money, but also was the start to perfect payment history.
United Gateway MileagePlus Credit Card:
Now personally, I think any of the airline credit cards are beneficial because of the mileage you receive. I mean how much better can it get than with every time you swipe that baby, you get miles toward your next flight. It’s a total game changer, especially in your early twenties when you might be visiting friends in different cities or even traveling for work. The United Gateway Mileage Plus card isn’t only used for flights either, you can earn miles for car rentals as well as overnight stays at hotels. I think the idea of being able to benefit from every purchase with a credit card can seem like a trap, but if you are frugal with your money and have self control, you will have no problem being able to pay off and benefit from the luxuries of a credit card.