I'm 48 and I'm appalled at how little my parents knew about credit cards. When I got my first credit cards at 18, my parents borrowed them and ran them up. I'm just now starting to consider them again and this series of videos are the best thing to happen for me for a while. I'm learning so much.
How can you blame your parents when you were a grown man? The first rule is to never let anyone know how much doe you have let alone have access to your bank accounts. lol You messed up not your parents. You played the role of a fool and got your reward.
@@Blackfeetyou cant assume anyone’s relationship with their family members. This happens and the focus should be how to recover, not shaming someone for what happened to them
I wish your explanation was available 10 years ago- I would have done things a lot differently! I have never heard credit cards explained in such an understandable way- thank you for this.
as a first gen college student with nobody to really look to for financial advice in america this is really helpful 😭 i applied for the discover student card!
Great videos. I have two feedback for your content. 1. When you compare cards with annual fees, often they end up being positive. Example: 100$ fees and 30000 sign up bonus miles which maybe 300$ in travel value. However, the bonus is just applicable for 1st year. So you should also calculate what is the cost of owning the card in the 2nd year on wards and how much spending is needed to offset the fees. 2. Talk about when to close down a card as well. How many cards to own at any point. I assume many of the cards you suggest are just good for the 1st year for sign up bonus and then users should close the account after transferring the miles.
@@Loud.Thoughts if a card isn't providing benefit and costing a fee it can make sense to close it. If you have an American express gold and saphire reserve then you will be primarily spending money on the chase card. Then the gold is offering no benefits besides credit history while charging you $100 per year.
@@Loud.Thoughts there's ton of people out there doing exactly that, it's called "credit card churning" and it's a legit strategy to maximize returns and minimize money spent in fees. This obviously isn't for everyone, but in my case where I don't see the need to have a credit score (already bought a house and a car paid off), this strategy can give you a lot of value for your money.
Agree. More should be discussed about the second year and after with these cards. I'm still learning, but here is my plan: (feedback welcome). After the first year, I would rather "retire" a card, and use my spending to rev up another new card, probably with another company, with a new sign-up bonus. The old card can be exchanged for the low-end "no annual fee" card offered by the same provider, and park it in a drawer. If you have to cancel a card, the hit to your credit score is really minimal.
I've been on discover it for 2 years and my income is too low to upgrade. This video will help me teach my little siblings and friends some of the things our boomer parents neglected to teach us. Thank you so much!
Thank you so much! I’m not young, I’m not a student; I’m a legal immigrant 44 years old woman living in this country for two years. Initially, only a few banks allowed me to have a checking account. Then my first saving account and a secure credit card with $500 arrived, which I hated cos have to pay every week! For that short credit. Six months later, I have an American Express gold with 70000 miles! Of course, I have to spend $2000 easy task. I got an e-mail to apply for platinum but don’t want to pay 250 membership yet. So thank you so much. I know where to go next!
Never been this early, just wanted to thank you for all of your Credit insight you’ve given us. I just turned 21 and I already have the Amex Gold card among other cards with a 758 credit score. I appreciate the team.
Hey that’s cool that is my dream, I am 18 I currently have the discover it, quicksilver and us bank, just wondering what is your income? Or Amex only checks your credit score?
I got my first card last month and my student loans boosted my credit high enough to jump straight to level 2 (with a 15k limit somehow?)! I’m excited to level up in the coming years!
From experience, I offer you this unsolicited advice. Only spend on your card if you have the cash to pay it right away. The interest compound super fast. I went in 2 years from owing zero to $30,000. I have spend the last 3 years working and starving myself to pay it off and be debt free.
Eek climbing the credit card latter isn’t really important. It however is important to build a good credit score which u can do with a lvl 1 card. It’s also important to understand how your credit score is calculated. The real world advice id give people is don’t go past level 1 until u have a career and u know how much money u have to budget in order to pay your card in full each month….because the moment u don’t any “rewards” offered by these cards is going to be less than meaningless. I’d also establish a good two to three months of income in a savings account. Once u do these things u can climb the latter to wherever makes sense for u and your spending…..which for most people isn’t higher than lvl 3. The reality is most people are prone to over spend and certainly all of us can have unexpected expenses come up. I’d much rather “borrow” against my savings than my CC that might charge 23% interest to do so. Credit limits are mostly meaningless. I have a 23k limit on most my cards. The reality is anything more than 7k I would never be able to pay off in full each month.
I’m 18, and I feel like I literally jumped over base. Because of my W2 and stocks, I was given a $500 limit from my local credit union. 2 months later, I got a $1000 limit on the Apple Card, which is my main card today and I now have a $3000 limit. Believe me, I have no idea how I’m doing this good before I’m even 19. I have a 755 credit score
@@creativesparks2164I don’t know my credit core. But it’s probably around 700. I got my first credit card “Sam’s club card” when I was 18 2022. I was always told to pay my bill on time so I did just that. At first i had a credit limit of 2,000, 5 months after, 4:19 it increased to 4,600$.
Wow! You kept me on my toes as you were speaking faster than a bullet train! lol. I had to pause it quite often but that was mainly because I was taking notes! Very articulate in how you explained each level so I understood very clearly each tier and the requirements. Thank goodness I already had some basic knowledge about the credit game and how it works but I am still in the beginner stage. Thank you for this excellent video!!
I’m actually glad that I came across this video. I was hesitant on which credit card to apply, but after categorizing myself in the beginner level, I decided to apply for the Chase Freedom Flex card. Hopefully I can move up soon to Sapphire! Thanks for the information!
I started my credit card journey a year ago when I first moved to the US with the Discover IT, and I'm grateful (albeit with only $500 credit limit), then the Walmart/Capital One Mastercard. Now I have a credit score of 710. My next target should be the Chase travel card. Thanks for the informative video.
I started with a CITI diamond securred when I was almost 20. I have since gotten an amex blue cash everyday for groceries (which I upgraded to preferred $95/yr), a us bank altitude for restaurants, and a chase IHG basic card for emergency evacuations. I later converted the CITI diamond secured (now preferred, unsecured) to a CITI custom cash. This card gives 5% back on your highest category. I use it for gym memberships so it never gets closed for inactivity. I am 22 now, I have 750 FICO and 769 transunion/eqifax. I am signing on a new car loan today, so it will drop a bit.
Learned about credit for the last 4 years, decided to apply the knowledge last year Started with the quick sliver card Then freedom unlimited Now amex gold card and amex blue cash preferred A couple thousand already in cash back rewards now looking to get one for travel Biggest tip Pay before closing statement day in full maybe leave one dollar only And never ever carry a balance Also take advantage of balance transfers
Thanks for helping me get my first credit card! Currently growing my credit score etc. Lmao I was never taught these things growing up so it’s awesome to see this. I’m definitely taking notes and subscribing too
I read somewhere that paying your credit card earlier in the cycle than just before it’s due raised your credit score. I tried that and my score went up 30 points.
Been watching your videos the last few days, and I’m honestly surprised at how great the information is! It made me look at credit cards at a completely different level. It’s crazy how they don’t teach you these kinds of things growing up. My parents never mentioned them, and obviously school never talked about it lol. Thanks for the info!
Thanks for the video! I’m currently at credit score of 775 and I have 2 cc( Chase unlimited and Quicksilver). Can’t wait to start working again so I can enter Level 3 💪
Watched this last year and my score has raised 100 points. I am in tier two and back here to nail this down and also seeing if I can hit some sign up bonuses.
FYI!!!! If you're active duty military these credit cards companies will waive the annual fee. Not only for you, but for you spouses as well. Yes, this includes tge AMEX Platinum and every other one in these lists!
I was approved yesterday for the Amex Platinum card but thinking about it i just didnt see it as a fit for me and in the end i called and asked if i could switch it to the Gold Card as i know i can benefit more from it and they had no problem switching my card... In 1 year i managed to go from Capital One Quicksilver to being approved for an Amex Gold Card which was my end goal, just didnt expect to get it so quickly lol.
I just clicked on this video to see the most prestigious credit card and which I find super pointless but when you were talking about secured credit cards. It got me thinking like damn I’ve had my secured credit card for a min now with capital one never missed a payment and my credit score is pretty good. When do I get an upgrade cause I know I’m definitely due. Checked my email and they pre approved for the quicksilver capital one which I just ordered. I’m super stoked about it!!!! Anyways great video!!! I’m always learning new tricks with you and other RUclipsrs which is very helpful for me and definitely others.
Level 5 is only worth it if you are moving very large amounts of money around and spending a lot BUT also being able to pay that amount off quickly. Millions. They do not want millions sitting and being paid off over a year lol. Imagine the interest!
I followed John’s advice…in 3 months I now have crippling debt…I have collectors showing up at my trailer with baseball bats…one of them threatened to beat my skull…another broke my pinky as a warning. I have never lived in such shattering fear in all my life. If it didnt hurt to use scissors I would have cut up all my cards already. Every day Im living in Level 5 Pain! What a momentous mistake that was!
I just started building my credit 3 months ago, i started with no credit history or score and it just popped up to a 686 after my first month, and this video made me realize thats shockingly high, and ive since figured out ive been authorized on my dad's credit card since i was 16 and it just never gave me a score for some reason
Awesome video. I'll say I'm in the premium tier (the card I have is solely for miles and assess to lounges, domestically and internationally). With my current yearly house expenses, I'm able to redeem 4 rounds trip tickets (with flights +10 hrs internally ) or two 1st class tickets. For the ultra premium, yes, I do believe is for a flex. But, I'll definitely will try to get it if, and only if, I'm running a business. It's the same logic rather paying the business expenses with cash just put it on the credit card and rep the benefits. I believe in this tier. The cash back is definitely noticeable and beneficial. An example, let's say an annual business expense of $400K with 5% cash back, that's $20k. That's either paying a salary or eliminating the house/personal expense, or putting it through the mortgage.
TL;DW: 1) Starter cards. Chase Freedom Student, or Discover It Student 2) Cashback cards. Chase Freedom Flex (or Unlimited), or Discover It, or Capital One Quicksilver 3) Starter points cards. American Express, or Chase Sapphire Preferred 4) Better points cards. American Express Platinum, or Chase Sapphire Reserve, or Capital One Venture X 5) Flex on the plebs. JP Morgan Reserve, or American Express Black/Centurion
Another thing to look at is how the cards accrue points based on where you spend your money. So for me, a gold Amex would get me more points than a Platinum purely based on where I spend my money most often. The platinum is really worth it if you travel a lot and want access to the clubs, otherwise, get the gold and save $500 a year on fees. From this video, all my cards are level 2, but I could easily get a level 4 card with my credit history and score. I just haven't bothered because the 0% interest rates and high limits I get on my current cards keeps me in those cards. But once I pay my last one off, I'll close some store cards and get a gold card. It's fun making banks pay you to use their cards and not give them a cent of interest payments lol.
@@fujimizuki9727 Take advantage of cards with no interest or great introductory offers. Just keep balance transferring between them so you don't have to pay interest on your balance. Or just pay off your statement every month. It accomplishes the same thing, but allows you to get cards that are more oriented toward cash back or point rewards instead of a no interest introductory offer.
I can see why they don’t teach this in school, a system that’s praying on your failures. Thanks for arguably the best informative 20’ clip of credit card info. Likes and subscribed.
One really solid beginner card I picked up a couple years ago is the Wells Fargo active cash. 2% back on all purchases and a $200 bonus on $1.5k spent in first 3 months when I originally got it.
Awesome video! at 33 I'm just now stating to understand credit and financial literacy. I just got the Chase sapphire preferred and I'm excited to learn how to properly use it .I'm learning a lot from you
Amazing video!!! I started off with the Discover It student 6 months ago and it has been great. I got 2 more credit cards for the 2 stores I buy most from and I’m at a 700/656 score right now but I don’t think I can move up to level 2 yet because of my annual income.
Awesome vid, with a great energy level throughout. Absolute mint information, thank you very much for breaking it down. Schools at some level before college need to invest in financial literacy programs. I wish I'd known any of this coming into my own as a young adult.
i got my first secured card in july of 2022 when i turned 18 fast foward to january andy my credit score is 730 . just got approved for amex blue cash everyday cant wait to get to the next level!
If you want to use credit cards for travel MAKE SURE you start with Chase credit cards. Because of their 5/24 rule you’ll miss out on some of the best cards if you don’t start with Chase.
@@bluscorpion if you’ve been approved for 5 or more credit cards in the last 24 months you can’t get approved for any Chase cards. It really limits your options if you’re trying to get several travel cards but don’t start with Chase.
In my 30s without a credit card, thought I was playing the system smart without spending money I don't own but here I am learning that I could've been manipulating my money in ways I never knew lol
True benefit of Chase ecosystem is if you can get business cards, that 5% Office supply store with the CIC can get gift cards to buy gas, groceries, etc. and with Hyatt, points are worth 100% more than just 1 CPP.
These are extremely useful rules for anyone looking to grow rich. Unfortunately, the majority of individuals that see this video will be unable to implement the ideas. We may not like to acknowledge it, but as Warren Buffett famously stated, investing is like any other profession: it takes a certain amount of knowledge. It's no surprise that some people are losing a lot of money during the bear market, while others are profiting by hundreds of thousands. I'm just not sure how they do it. I now have around $570k to invest in the market.
Dealing across multiple asset classes can reduce risk more effectively than putting all of your money into one. If you don't understand finances properly, see a financial consultant.
Agreed, a lot of folks downplay the role of advisors until being burnt by their own emotions. I remember couple summers back, after my lengthy divorce, I needed a good boost to help my business stay afloat, hence I researched for licensed advisors and came across someone of utmost qualifications. She's helped grow my reserve notwithstanding inflation, from $275k to $850k.
'Grace Adams Cook' , is the licensed advisor I use. Just research the name. You’d find necessary details to work with a correspondence to set up an appointment.
Yea the annual fees can make sense for some people and they are often offset by credits. For example, the sapphire preferred card has a $100 annual fee but their is also a $50 annual hotel credit. U just have to make sure u take advantage of these credits. The Sapphire value is that it allows u access to Chase Rewards portal where u can get 25% more value for your points when redeeming for travel through their portal and u can also transfer points from other Chase cards like the flex cards. Sometimes u just don’t know until u do some calculations. Chase doesn’t offer any good cards for gas or groceries so I recently got an AMX cash preferred blue card. It’s $100 a year fee but the first year is waived and sign up bonus of $250 means it won’t cost me anything to use that card for 3.5 yrs. It offers 6% cash back on groceries and 3% on gas. This basically allows me to earn 4% more in these two categories than if I used my Chase cards. I’m a single person and not sure if I spend enough on groceries and will need to calculate at the end of the year if it makes sense to pay a $100 annual fee. It however does make a lot of sense to be able to use this card for 3.5 yrs with no fee.
I am NOT doing the 2-3% fee for the Chase one. But I easily clear $250k per year on charges. Would be easily double that if I worked it (like mortgage payments, groceries, etc...). So the Black would be easier. Thanks for the info.
At 19:05 "Invite only".... Doing you a solid here.... There is A premium card out of the UK that is not invited only. Anybody can apply for it, the Queen of England had it when she was alive. The bank was for rich people and started with a "B" and is old, I can't remember the name of the bank.... I found that on a RUclips video a couple years ago.... You should get that card, and leave your entry into the ultra premium market....
Very interesting video. Lots of excellent techniques if you have good discipline (and the cash to support your spending habits). The sad part is most people don't, end up paying way more in interest than the benefits received, and get themselves in financial stress just to get a few "free" flights or other items. Credits cards can be an great tool with excellent benefits, but very few people actually learn how to use this particular tool properly.
Discover It is not a card where you load it with a secure amount, it is a card that has a potential for a high limit unsecured unless they changed it and I am just grandfathered into the old way.
I’d love to see a video on why you chose to pick Asiana airlines to credit miles to! I’ve been looking online for the best airline frequent flyer programs for each alliance and there’s not so much information on all the ins and outs of each program.
Being at the 5 tier level means you have no balances each month...feels good moving from the bad to the good...time and learning from bad experiences and decisions...people will make it...good vid
This information was good, but to be honest, I love the delivery even more. You seem like fun to travel with- probably know all the hot spots to hit up and stuff.
Kind of hated (more like avoided) this guy for a while because I'm tired of his Credit Karma ad that comes up on RUclips all the time, but I'm glad I gave this video a chance. Great content 👌🏽
Great video! Thanks, a few questions: -what happens when you cancel a credit card? Should you? Is it better to not use the card ever again when you're done, or close it out? -What about interest rates? Like you should stop using a card after a year when interest rates start hitting?
1. Never cancel one even if you dont use it. Canceling it would actually ruin your score more than not using it. 2. As long as you always pay things on time and don't have debt, interest rates shouldn't affect you and aren't things you should worry about.
I'm entirely certain the companies offering these cards have accounted for all of the perks you receive and decided they will make money off of you. These rewards are marginal at best and the energy required to maintain them could be better devoted to more meaningful or profitable ventures.
You should’ve also mentioned about being an Authorized User, especially with a high credit score individual. I’ve done that with my husband, he has great credit score. I ended up with an offer right away to open my own credit card (1k balance). Started at 699 credit score, now it’s 704 pts! Not only we have to pay before the due date, we also have to not use more than 30% of the credit card. Anything beyond that, even if you paid in advance or on time, it affects credit score a LOT. ANyway, great content and channel! New subscriber here!
Not in all cases I got the Quicksilver card with a fico 8 Score 665 $1000 limit and spend $605.07 on it and payed it when The balance posted and two weeks later my score went up to Fico 8 score 697 cause 30% of My card is $300 dollars
Another credit score building hack a financial advisor told me was to save $1k. Go to your bank and get a secured loan for $1k, use the $1k you already have as collateral. Dont spend the loan money, pay it for 3-4 months, and then pay it off. Your credit score will jump up a lot.
I appreciate this guide I got my first credit card and hoping to build credit as well as get cash back. Since most things I go like a house and car I never needed to put anything against my credit which means I never had a available credit score. That made it super hard to even find a credit card to start with. But the starter card you recommended got me started and I’m hoping to use your advice to build credit so I be able to afford a better home for me and my fiancé.
Would be hard to flex the AMEX Black Card w/ Apple pay. Whoever has that card probably feels like they have to use the physical card every time to justify the $15,000 fees. Paying to inconvenience yourself. Also SUCH an incredible video! Thanks for sharing such powerful information that puts others more in control of their lives!
This is amazing! Have some questions here ✋Where do you think Amex essential card stands? Is it a good card? Also if I want to go up to Amex platinum edge with canceling this card, is it going to affect my credit score?
If you don’t travel a lot the Amex plat and Venture really don’t make sense. It’s all about maxing out the potential points when you get to that level. Level 3 is what many people probably stay in the longest
Neither of these means "sit down." "Sit back" means move your upper body back into a semi-reclining position and relax after you are seated. "Pop a squat" means "squat and urinate."
Alright so.. I have around a 695 credit score and I only had two credit cards for the past 6 years with capital one and in general (quicksilver and savor one) after like 2 years since I applied for the 2nd card (savor one) i went crazy and instead of climbing the credit card ladder, i jumped straight for the venture x and surprisingly got approved with a 10k limit. Was that a good or dumb move? given that i basically skipped the credit card ladder?
I have just found your channel & I love it! I have trying to build credit for the last 4 years since I am only in my 20s & now I can see what I am doing & actually benefit from them better than before. I play the credit card game already but you have enlightened me on so many things I have never knew & i am ready to take advantage of. Just got approved for Capital One Venture card as my most recent step forward. Really eager to expand on this! Thanks John. You have earned a new subscriber!
same!! It’s my 2nd cc ever and I didn’t know I actually jumped from Tier 1 to Tier 3, once I graduate and start working FT, I hope to upgrade to the VX
Hi John. Great Video. I have just started looking into expanding my credit cards. I think the Chase Freedom is a great fit for me and I see you mention doubling the cash back for the first year using your affiliate link. Not sure which link to follow! The only chase link I see brings me to the Chase for Business applications. Could you attach the link you are referring to or tell me where to find it in the description?
Thanks, for the video, last years I have chase freedom unlimited & Amex blue cash preferred for gas & groceries. I just got CSR and thinking getting freedom flex to maximize URP for travel.
My wife and I both have separate Level 1 or 2 cards. We both have credit scores around 800. We'd like to up our game to get a card that's working for us more and getting more cash back than what we're currently getting. Is it possible for us to jump a level or should we still slowly build up the ladder?
@johnsfinancetips great video once again! I always find the videos informative and entertaining. I'm in level 2, being someone who got into credit cards after age 21 and it's a fun journey! Thanks again!
Thank you so much for this video! I've been wanting to add another cc to my wallet for a while now, but a little lost on what's best for me. Your Level 3 & Level 4 breakdown was exactly what I needed! 🙏😃
The Discover It is just a ridiculously good value. I earned $620 dollars in cashback the first year and it's a zero interest card. Year two and beyond it still will give you 5% on some valuable rotating categories with zero cost there's really nothing that beats that for no cost and not hard to get. If you fly a decent bit get the Amex Gold but wait for a high intro offer as they fluctuate. I believe I got 80k points. They also offered me an upgrade to the Platinum with 75k hella quick. That's a really good offer for an upgrade (no hard inquiry and no new account hit to your credit score bc it's not a new account) For a new account I would wait for 120k for Platnium to be worth it and even then only if you travel a good bit. I don't travel much so after the first year I have to he diligent about taking advantage of the statement credits and random bonus offers to justify the $250 especially since the large downside of Amex Gold/Platinum is no credit limit means you don't get a boost to your available credit or your credit utilization so definitely never put something on there you can't pay off each month. Especially since there are so many zero fee 12-21 month zero interest card offers. The Amex Gold is still worth it and honestly it's a nice looking good to boot so that plays a role. However the only category I regularly use is gas and restaurants bc they offer a much cheaper $95 credit limit card called Blue Cash Preferred. First year fee is typically waited and comes with a decent bonus first year. Most importantly it offers 6% cashback every year on groceries and streaming services plus a Disney plus slash Hulu plus statement bonus that basically covers the annual fee and I have a young child. My advice would be get a 2% back on everything zero fee card like the Wells Fargo Cash Back or a few other options, the Discover It, a zero fee high restaurant rewards card, a zero fee or less than 100 fee hotel focused card with a large intro points reward (even if you don't travel a free night at a nearby hotel is great if ur married with kids), and then the Blue Cash Prefrered is the only annual fee I think is definitely worth it for most ppl.
To be clear the $250 refers to the Amex Gold. The Platnium is 600ish and not justifiable with the mix of cards I already have. You really either need to be flying for business a lot or taking really expensive yearly international flights with multiple ppl.
If you do fly constantly for business then try and make sure your employer will let you use your card and reimburse instead of using their card. You can build up an insane amount of rewards if you're flying every few weeks for business. Still there are probably better choices than the Amex Platnium if you don't care about the status symbol that really isn't a status symbol. I got an offer for Amex platnium upgrade a few months after being declined for an Amazon Chase card. Ime Chase is the pickiest about declining you. Amex is one of the least.
i know multiple people who had the black card and they all said its the worst amex card its just too expensive for what you get unless you travel literally every other day. most of these people i have talked to say that they prefer the Amex platinum or Business Gold
John, What is the most effective way to spend AMEX points without flying? I love to travel but I drive or take trains. I don't fly. The AMEX Gold looks great for me for its potential to earn with my lifestyle, but I'm not sure about redeeming those points. Thanks!
That’s a great question! Unfortunately for the Amex MR program the most value comes from flights. If the 4x grocery and 4x dining is a big spend for you the work around could be using the card for gift cards. So it’s a quasi “cash back”
@John Liang are there any hotel transfer partners for good value? I use hotels plenty, so if good value could be had for that, it might work. The card definitely hits the right spending catagories for me.
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Bro just dropped the most informative 24 min and 28 seconds about credit cards I’ve ever heard and thought he was gonna get away with it 💀
its even faster at 2x
💀💀💀
@@jeffhermida4788 But I dont want my head to explode
@@jeffhermida4788 I thought I was on 2x😅
I'm 48 and I'm appalled at how little my parents knew about credit cards. When I got my first credit cards at 18, my parents borrowed them and ran them up. I'm just now starting to consider them again and this series of videos are the best thing to happen for me for a while. I'm learning so much.
I will never understand parents who do this. I’m so sorry this happened to you. :(
This is why I got a credit card without telling my parents. I’m scared about the risk of they know.
How can you blame your parents when you were a grown man? The first rule is to never let anyone know how much doe you have let alone have access to your bank accounts. lol
You messed up not your parents. You played the role of a fool and got your reward.
@@Blackfeetyou cant assume anyone’s relationship with their family members. This happens and the focus should be how to recover, not shaming someone for what happened to them
@@Blackfeet18 is a grown man?
I wish your explanation was available 10 years ago- I would have done things a lot differently! I have never heard credit cards explained in such an understandable way- thank you for this.
as a first gen college student with nobody to really look to for financial advice in america this is really helpful 😭 i applied for the discover student card!
Great videos. I have two feedback for your content.
1. When you compare cards with annual fees, often they end up being positive. Example: 100$ fees and 30000 sign up bonus miles which maybe 300$ in travel value. However, the bonus is just applicable for 1st year. So you should also calculate what is the cost of owning the card in the 2nd year on wards and how much spending is needed to offset the fees.
2. Talk about when to close down a card as well. How many cards to own at any point. I assume many of the cards you suggest are just good for the 1st year for sign up bonus and then users should close the account after transferring the miles.
Why would you close a card? Unless you can’t afford the fees, you’d be negatively affecting your credit because you’re killing your credit history…
@@Loud.Thoughts if a card isn't providing benefit and costing a fee it can make sense to close it. If you have an American express gold and saphire reserve then you will be primarily spending money on the chase card. Then the gold is offering no benefits besides credit history while charging you $100 per year.
@@Loud.Thoughts there's ton of people out there doing exactly that, it's called "credit card churning" and it's a legit strategy to maximize returns and minimize money spent in fees. This obviously isn't for everyone, but in my case where I don't see the need to have a credit score (already bought a house and a car paid off), this strategy can give you a lot of value for your money.
Excellent points
Agree. More should be discussed about the second year and after with these cards. I'm still learning, but here is my plan: (feedback welcome). After the first year, I would rather "retire" a card, and use my spending to rev up another new card, probably with another company, with a new sign-up bonus. The old card can be exchanged for the low-end "no annual fee" card offered by the same provider, and park it in a drawer. If you have to cancel a card, the hit to your credit score is really minimal.
This dude gives the same vibe as crash course…I mean it in a positive way. Very educational, fun and great flow to follow.
I've been on discover it for 2 years and my income is too low to upgrade. This video will help me teach my little siblings and friends some of the things our boomer parents neglected to teach us. Thank you so much!
Our boomer parents never had to worry about their first cards. Credit scores only became a thing in 1989!
Enlarge your vision. Put your goals down somewhere. I had the quicksilver on my vision board for a few months before it happened.
I got to a 750 off a secured credit card at 20 with a $200 limit. Just gotta be disciplined
Thank you so much! I’m not young, I’m not a student; I’m a legal immigrant 44 years old woman living in this country for two years. Initially, only a few banks allowed me to have a checking account. Then my first saving account and a secure credit card with $500 arrived, which I hated cos have to pay every week! For that short credit. Six months later, I have an American Express gold with 70000 miles! Of course, I have to spend $2000 easy task. I got an e-mail to apply for platinum but don’t want to pay 250 membership yet. So thank you so much. I know where to go next!
Never been this early, just wanted to thank you for all of your Credit insight you’ve given us. I just turned 21 and I already have the Amex Gold card among other cards with a 758 credit score. I appreciate the team.
Hey that’s cool that is my dream, I am 18 I currently have the discover it, quicksilver and us bank, just wondering what is your income? Or Amex only checks your credit score?
I got my first card last month and my student loans boosted my credit high enough to jump straight to level 2 (with a 15k limit somehow?)! I’m excited to level up in the coming years!
From experience, I offer you this unsolicited advice. Only spend on your card if you have the cash to pay it right away. The interest compound super fast. I went in 2 years from owing zero to $30,000. I have spend the last 3 years working and starving myself to pay it off and be debt free.
If you mind me asking, what cc was it that gave you that 15k limit?
@@wakeupstylellc it's been hard and tough💪. Idk why many ppl so motivated to level up CC
Eek climbing the credit card latter isn’t really important. It however is important to build a good credit score which u can do with a lvl 1 card. It’s also important to understand how your credit score is calculated. The real world advice id give people is don’t go past level 1 until u have a career and u know how much money u have to budget in order to pay your card in full each month….because the moment u don’t any “rewards” offered by these cards is going to be less than meaningless. I’d also establish a good two to three months of income in a savings account. Once u do these things u can climb the latter to wherever makes sense for u and your spending…..which for most people isn’t higher than lvl 3. The reality is most people are prone to over spend and certainly all of us can have unexpected expenses come up. I’d much rather “borrow” against my savings than my CC that might charge 23% interest to do so. Credit limits are mostly meaningless. I have a 23k limit on most my cards. The reality is anything more than 7k I would never be able to pay off in full each month.
I’m 18, and I feel like I literally jumped over base. Because of my W2 and stocks, I was given a $500 limit from my local credit union. 2 months later, I got a $1000 limit on the Apple Card, which is my main card today and I now have a $3000 limit. Believe me, I have no idea how I’m doing this good before I’m even 19. I have a 755 credit score
It’s cause our parents were unlucky with not knowing much about credit.
It’s simple but they saw it as free money. When it’s not
@@creativesparks2164I don’t know my credit core. But it’s probably around 700. I got my first credit card “Sam’s club card” when I was 18 2022. I was always told to pay my bill on time so I did just that. At first i had a credit limit of 2,000, 5 months after, 4:19 it increased to 4,600$.
19 with a 2k limit and similar score. i missed out on getting a card at 18 and i’ve gotten this limit after 9 months
I’m turning 23 soon and I wish I was at your place at 19, you’re doing amazing so far
I have a 737 and I’m 19 too I have no card what card you think I should apply for
Wow! You kept me on my toes as you were speaking faster than a bullet train! lol. I had to pause it quite often but that was mainly because I was taking notes! Very articulate in how you explained each level so I understood very clearly each tier and the requirements. Thank goodness I already had some basic knowledge about the credit game and how it works but I am still in the beginner stage. Thank you for this excellent video!!
FYI. If you click on settings you can slowdown the playback speed. Hope this helps
Yeah too fast for me
parents knew nothing about this, none of my friends either. Feel like i just learned a secret that i can share with my friends now. Thank you!
In case of inquiries or issues, direct/fwd’ them there.
There↑.
I’m actually glad that I came across this video. I was hesitant on which credit card to apply, but after categorizing myself in the beginner level, I decided to apply for the Chase Freedom Flex card. Hopefully I can move up soon to Sapphire!
Thanks for the information!
how's it working out for you?
This comment section is so electric- and for good reason. 100/10 video. So proud of you, thanks for breaking it down for us.
I started my credit card journey a year ago when I first moved to the US with the Discover IT, and I'm grateful (albeit with only $500 credit limit), then the Walmart/Capital One Mastercard. Now I have a credit score of 710. My next target should be the Chase travel card. Thanks for the informative video.
Get the citi premier card it’s the best travel card on the market
I started with a CITI diamond securred when I was almost 20. I have since gotten an amex blue cash everyday for groceries (which I upgraded to preferred $95/yr), a us bank altitude for restaurants, and a chase IHG basic card for emergency evacuations. I later converted the CITI diamond secured (now preferred, unsecured) to a CITI custom cash. This card gives 5% back on your highest category. I use it for gym memberships so it never gets closed for inactivity.
I am 22 now, I have 750 FICO and 769 transunion/eqifax. I am signing on a new car loan today, so it will drop a bit.
Learned about credit for the last 4 years, decided to apply the knowledge last year
Started with the quick sliver card
Then freedom unlimited
Now amex gold card and amex blue cash preferred
A couple thousand already in cash back rewards now looking to get one for travel
Biggest tip
Pay before closing statement day in full maybe leave one dollar only
And never ever carry a balance
Also take advantage of balance transfers
Thanks for helping me get my first credit card! Currently growing my credit score etc. Lmao I was never taught these things growing up so it’s awesome to see this. I’m definitely taking notes and subscribing too
I really appreciate you explaining your thought process towards the end of the video. Like you were giving a peek into your mind. Thank you, John.
I read somewhere that paying your credit card earlier in the cycle than just before it’s due raised your credit score. I tried that and my score went up 30 points.
Been watching your videos the last few days, and I’m honestly surprised at how great the information is!
It made me look at credit cards at a completely different level. It’s crazy how they don’t teach you these kinds of things growing up. My parents never mentioned them, and obviously school never talked about it lol.
Thanks for the info!
Thanks for the video! I’m currently at credit score of 775 and I have 2 cc( Chase unlimited and Quicksilver). Can’t wait to start working again so I can enter Level 3 💪
That’s wassup 💪🏽 I’m at 733, 2cc. I try to stay on top of this credit stuff
Ain’t no way Yuji Itadori has a credit score of 775 unless Nanami made him an authorized user on one of his cards (sorry for the cringe)
Watched this last year and my score has raised 100 points. I am in tier two and back here to nail this down and also seeing if I can hit some sign up bonuses.
FYI!!!! If you're active duty military these credit cards companies will waive the annual fee. Not only for you, but for you spouses as well. Yes, this includes tge AMEX Platinum and every other one in these lists!
I did not know that you don’t say
Is it only for the first year?
@187_Virus No. As long as you sfay Active you're good. I've had mine for about 2 years and have co-workers who have them for more than 5 years.
I was approved yesterday for the Amex Platinum card but thinking about it i just didnt see it as a fit for me and in the end i called and asked if i could switch it to the Gold Card as i know i can benefit more from it and they had no problem switching my card... In 1 year i managed to go from Capital One Quicksilver to being approved for an Amex Gold Card which was my end goal, just didnt expect to get it so quickly lol.
I just clicked on this video to see the most prestigious credit card and which I find super pointless but when you were talking about secured credit cards. It got me thinking like damn I’ve had my secured credit card for a min now with capital one never missed a payment and my credit score is pretty good. When do I get an upgrade cause I know I’m definitely due. Checked my email and they pre approved for the quicksilver capital one which I just ordered. I’m super stoked about it!!!! Anyways great video!!! I’m always learning new tricks with you and other RUclipsrs which is very helpful for me and definitely others.
Congrats Noah!! I'm pumped for you to get that unsecured card!! Thanks for the comment and support!
I put this video in my watchlist last year and watching it just now. Very informative, wow
Got my Gold card six months ago, feels like a flex at 23 y/o
started with a quicksilver card at 18, about 4 months ago, approved without credit and have built to about 740
The grind is so worth it! Hopefully I can experience the level 5 tier someday😳
Level 5 is only worth it if you are moving very large amounts of money around and spending a lot BUT also being able to pay that amount off quickly. Millions. They do not want millions sitting and being paid off over a year lol. Imagine the interest!
@@ITIRICI I mean even then it’s never “worth it.” The value isn’t there.. it’s just nice to have.
If you want to.. those fees are as much as renting a pretty nice apartment.
If u have a million why do u need a million borrowed
@@SycaShowtax write offs mostly
I followed John’s advice…in 3 months I now have crippling debt…I have collectors showing up at my trailer with baseball bats…one of them threatened to beat my skull…another broke my pinky as a warning. I have never lived in such shattering fear in all my life. If it didnt hurt to use scissors I would have cut up all my cards already. Every day Im living in Level 5 Pain! What a momentous mistake that was!
Funny one……
I just started building my credit 3 months ago, i started with no credit history or score and it just popped up to a 686 after my first month, and this video made me realize thats shockingly high, and ive since figured out ive been authorized on my dad's credit card since i was 16 and it just never gave me a score for some reason
That’s how it is lol. I was authorized on my mom’s since 17 but didn’t get my score until about 2-3 months after my first credit card under myself
That's amazing but really a huge shout out to your parents!
I added my daughter at 16.5 yrs soon to be 18 yo hope this helps her score to get student 👩🎓 loans on her own 😆 😊
@@leilanirivera2586 You're daughter is blessed!! She'll have a killer credit score when she applys for her first card!
@@johnsfinancetips could you go into this in a future video? How parents can help their kids build credit in the teens? ❤
Amazing video John, excited to continue bulidng my credit at 18 right now.
Feels like I've struck gold finding this video. Thank you for the info John!
Dude! Thank you! No one has ever explained this to me growing up.
Happy to help! I know it's crazy we spend so much time in "School" and the most important things are not even taught
Awesome video. I'll say I'm in the premium tier (the card I have is solely for miles and assess to lounges, domestically and internationally). With my current yearly house expenses, I'm able to redeem 4 rounds trip tickets (with flights +10 hrs internally ) or two 1st class tickets.
For the ultra premium, yes, I do believe is for a flex. But, I'll definitely will try to get it if, and only if, I'm running a business. It's the same logic rather paying the business expenses with cash just put it on the credit card and rep the benefits. I believe in this tier. The cash back is definitely noticeable and beneficial. An example, let's say an annual business expense of $400K with 5% cash back, that's $20k. That's either paying a salary or eliminating the house/personal expense, or putting it through the mortgage.
TL;DW:
1) Starter cards. Chase Freedom Student, or Discover It Student
2) Cashback cards. Chase Freedom Flex (or Unlimited), or Discover It, or Capital One Quicksilver
3) Starter points cards. American Express, or Chase Sapphire Preferred
4) Better points cards. American Express Platinum, or Chase Sapphire Reserve, or Capital One Venture X
5) Flex on the plebs. JP Morgan Reserve, or American Express Black/Centurion
Another thing to look at is how the cards accrue points based on where you spend your money. So for me, a gold Amex would get me more points than a Platinum purely based on where I spend my money most often. The platinum is really worth it if you travel a lot and want access to the clubs, otherwise, get the gold and save $500 a year on fees.
From this video, all my cards are level 2, but I could easily get a level 4 card with my credit history and score. I just haven't bothered because the 0% interest rates and high limits I get on my current cards keeps me in those cards. But once I pay my last one off, I'll close some store cards and get a gold card.
It's fun making banks pay you to use their cards and not give them a cent of interest payments lol.
@@fujimizuki9727 Take advantage of cards with no interest or great introductory offers. Just keep balance transferring between them so you don't have to pay interest on your balance. Or just pay off your statement every month. It accomplishes the same thing, but allows you to get cards that are more oriented toward cash back or point rewards instead of a no interest introductory offer.
Dudes gonna be the reason I’m balling these next 3 years
Just remember everyone, your credit card limit is that, its a limit NOT a goal!
I really wish I had discovered your RUclips channel when I was a student. I’m 25 now and started my credit journey back in march
Direct whatever Credit consents to may seemingly have there.
GmaiI
-johnsfinancetips57
I jumped from 6 cards in level 2 (all no annual fee!) to level 4!
That’s amazing. Congrats on such a quick jump Samuel!!
This is one of the greatest videos on this topic, I plan on following each level to the end
I can see why they don’t teach this in school, a system that’s praying on your failures.
Thanks for arguably the best informative 20’ clip of credit card info. Likes and subscribed.
One really solid beginner card I picked up a couple years ago is the Wells Fargo active cash. 2% back on all purchases and a $200 bonus on $1.5k spent in first 3 months when I originally got it.
Awesome video! at 33 I'm just now stating to understand credit and financial literacy. I just got the Chase sapphire preferred and I'm excited to learn how to properly use it .I'm learning a lot from you
Amazing video!!!
I started off with the Discover It student 6 months ago and it has been great. I got 2 more credit cards for the 2 stores I buy most from and I’m at a 700/656 score right now but I don’t think I can move up to level 2 yet because of my annual income.
Awesome vid, with a great energy level throughout. Absolute mint information, thank you very much for breaking it down. Schools at some level before college need to invest in financial literacy programs. I wish I'd known any of this coming into my own as a young adult.
i got my first secured card in july of 2022 when i turned 18 fast foward to january andy my credit score is 730 . just got approved for amex blue cash everyday cant wait to get to the next level!
If you want to use credit cards for travel MAKE SURE you start with Chase credit cards. Because of their 5/24 rule you’ll miss out on some of the best cards if you don’t start with Chase.
What's the 5/24 rule?
@@bluscorpion if you’ve been approved for 5 or more credit cards in the last 24 months you can’t get approved for any Chase cards.
It really limits your options if you’re trying to get several travel cards but don’t start with Chase.
In my 30s without a credit card, thought I was playing the system smart without spending money I don't own but here I am learning that I could've been manipulating my money in ways I never knew lol
Thanks for the video. Can you do an in depth video on the billing cycle? Thanks
True benefit of Chase ecosystem is if you can get business cards, that 5% Office supply store with the CIC can get gift cards to buy gas, groceries, etc. and with Hyatt, points are worth 100% more than just 1 CPP.
In level one, basically avoid any cards mentioned on your previous video about worst credit cards.
That’s exactly it Matthew! Thanks for the comment and support
@@johnsfinancetips You're welcome. I'm a huge fan of your videos.
I barely got into number 4! Excited to see what I can get!!
Damn I didn’t realize how ahead I am, I’m at tier 4 right now at 21
Just don’t let the debt crush you. Be smart, not careless. Best of luck. 🍻
When did you start your credit journey Mario? At the age of 18?
I've seen your credit karma add probably 10k times now. I hope they are paying you well!! You deserve it
Hahaha - funny enough that was done over a year ago. I can't believe they're still running it 😂
@@johnsfinancetips OOO! The famous finance fanatic replied to me 😅 starstruck and flabbergasted
These are extremely useful rules for anyone looking to grow rich. Unfortunately, the majority of individuals that see this video will be unable to implement the ideas. We may not like to acknowledge it, but as Warren Buffett famously stated, investing is like any other profession: it takes a certain amount of knowledge. It's no surprise that some people are losing a lot of money during the bear market, while others are profiting by hundreds of thousands. I'm just not sure how they do it. I now have around $570k to invest in the market.
Dealing across multiple asset classes can reduce risk more effectively than putting all of your money into one. If you don't understand finances properly, see a financial consultant.
Agreed, a lot of folks downplay the role of advisors until being burnt by their own emotions. I remember couple summers back, after my lengthy divorce, I needed a good boost to help my business stay afloat, hence I researched for licensed advisors and came across someone of utmost qualifications. She's helped grow my reserve notwithstanding inflation, from $275k to $850k.
Market behavior can be complex and unpredictable. Mind if I ask you to recommend this particular coach to whom you have used their services?
'Grace Adams Cook' , is the licensed advisor I use. Just research the name. You’d find necessary details to work with a correspondence to set up an appointment.
Thank you for the lead. I searched her up, and I have sent her an email. I hope she gets back to me soon.
This was a GREAT video. I currently have excellent credit but have avoided any credit cards with annual fees but maybe now I’ll give it a try!
Yea the annual fees can make sense for some people and they are often offset by credits. For example, the sapphire preferred card has a $100 annual fee but their is also a $50 annual hotel credit. U just have to make sure u take advantage of these credits. The Sapphire value is that it allows u access to Chase Rewards portal where u can get 25% more value for your points when redeeming for travel through their portal and u can also transfer points from other Chase cards like the flex cards. Sometimes u just don’t know until u do some calculations. Chase doesn’t offer any good cards for gas or groceries so I recently got an AMX cash preferred blue card. It’s $100 a year fee but the first year is waived and sign up bonus of $250 means it won’t cost me anything to use that card for 3.5 yrs. It offers 6% cash back on groceries and 3% on gas. This basically allows me to earn 4% more in these two categories than if I used my Chase cards. I’m a single person and not sure if I spend enough on groceries and will need to calculate at the end of the year if it makes sense to pay a $100 annual fee. It however does make a lot of sense to be able to use this card for 3.5 yrs with no fee.
I am NOT doing the 2-3% fee for the Chase one.
But I easily clear $250k per year on charges. Would be easily double that if I worked it (like mortgage payments, groceries, etc...). So the Black would be easier. Thanks for the info.
Happy to help! Best of luck with everything!
At 19:05
"Invite only"....
Doing you a solid here....
There is A premium card out of the UK that is not invited only. Anybody can apply for it, the Queen of England had it when she was alive. The bank was for rich people and started with a "B" and is old, I can't remember the name of the bank....
I found that on a RUclips video a couple years ago....
You should get that card, and leave your entry into the ultra premium market....
Very interesting video. Lots of excellent techniques if you have good discipline (and the cash to support your spending habits). The sad part is most people don't, end up paying way more in interest than the benefits received, and get themselves in financial stress just to get a few "free" flights or other items. Credits cards can be an great tool with excellent benefits, but very few people actually learn how to use this particular tool properly.
Discover It is not a card where you load it with a secure amount, it is a card that has a potential for a high limit unsecured unless they changed it and I am just grandfathered into the old way.
I’d love to see a video on why you chose to pick Asiana airlines to credit miles to! I’ve been looking online for the best airline frequent flyer programs for each alliance and there’s not so much information on all the ins and outs of each program.
All the airlines are in cahoots. If one does it, the rest will gang up on them.
Great video thanks a ton John. I feel equipped to continue on to the next level.
Being at the 5 tier level means you have no balances each month...feels good moving from the bad to the good...time and learning from bad experiences and decisions...people will make it...good vid
Also, anyone on the Level 5 tier isn’t stuck watching videos like this Lmao
This information was good, but to be honest, I love the delivery even more. You seem like fun to travel with- probably know all the hot spots to hit up and stuff.
Being patient along the way is so important. I hope i can make it to Tier 5 one day
Kind of hated (more like avoided) this guy for a while because I'm tired of his Credit Karma ad that comes up on RUclips all the time, but I'm glad I gave this video a chance. Great content 👌🏽
Great video! Thanks, a few questions:
-what happens when you cancel a credit card? Should you? Is it better to not use the card ever again when you're done, or close it out?
-What about interest rates? Like you should stop using a card after a year when interest rates start hitting?
1. Never cancel one even if you dont use it. Canceling it would actually ruin your score more than not using it.
2. As long as you always pay things on time and don't have debt, interest rates shouldn't affect you and aren't things you should worry about.
@edgaraguilar3548 what if there's an annual fee on it and zero benefits as it was my first cc? 😅
I'm entirely certain the companies offering these cards have accounted for all of the perks you receive and decided they will make money off of you. These rewards are marginal at best and the energy required to maintain them could be better devoted to more meaningful or profitable ventures.
What do you do with the lower tier cards once you upgrade to a higher tier one?
Your help was unexpected, it turned out to be timely such a divine intervention, I can’t thank you enough
Really good explanation for beginners
thanks to you im getting my 4th card (amex platinum) at 20
You should’ve also mentioned about being an Authorized User, especially with a high credit score individual. I’ve done that with my husband, he has great credit score. I ended up with an offer right away to open my own credit card (1k balance). Started at 699 credit score, now it’s 704 pts!
Not only we have to pay before the due date, we also have to not use more than 30% of the credit card. Anything beyond that, even if you paid in advance or on time, it affects credit score a LOT.
ANyway, great content and channel! New subscriber here!
Not in all cases I got the
Quicksilver card with a fico 8
Score 665 $1000 limit and spend
$605.07 on it and payed it when
The balance posted and two weeks later my score went up to
Fico 8 score 697 cause 30% of
My card is $300 dollars
Very good video. I definitely recommend it to you out there in the RUclips world.
Just got the discover it with a 2500 limit no credit history.
Another credit score building hack a financial advisor told me was to save $1k. Go to your bank and get a secured loan for $1k, use the $1k you already have as collateral. Dont spend the loan money, pay it for 3-4 months, and then pay it off. Your credit score will jump up a lot.
I appreciate this guide I got my first credit card and hoping to build credit as well as get cash back. Since most things I go like a house and car I never needed to put anything against my credit which means I never had a available credit score. That made it super hard to even find a credit card to start with. But the starter card you recommended got me started and I’m hoping to use your advice to build credit so I be able to afford a better home for me and my fiancé.
Would be hard to flex the AMEX Black Card w/ Apple pay. Whoever has that card probably feels like they have to use the physical card every time to justify the $15,000 fees. Paying to inconvenience yourself.
Also SUCH an incredible video! Thanks for sharing such powerful information that puts others more in control of their lives!
I’m definitely a beginner with my Quicksilver and Chase Freedom unlimited lol
Love those 2 cards!!
This is amazing! Have some questions here ✋Where do you think Amex essential card stands? Is it a good card? Also if I want to go up to Amex platinum edge with canceling this card, is it going to affect my credit score?
My credit score is around 760 and I have been at beginner cards for the past 3+ years... maybe its time to level up
Lol i’ve had the discover student chrome for like 10 years (i’m 28). I’m about to jump into level 3
If you don’t travel a lot the Amex plat and Venture really don’t make sense. It’s all about maxing out the potential points when you get to that level. Level 3 is what many people probably stay in the longest
Me 6years 😂 even though I’m over 780 I’m prob just going chase freedom unlimited. Got chase, rarely travel, want the 200 bucks lol
At 1:21
"Sit back, pop a squat"....
Both of these mean sit down....it is redundant. Can you use one or the other but not both, please??
Neither of these means "sit down." "Sit back" means move your upper body back into a semi-reclining position and relax after you are seated. "Pop a squat" means "squat and urinate."
Alright so.. I have around a 695 credit score and I only had two credit cards for the past 6 years with capital one and in general (quicksilver and savor one) after like 2 years since I applied for the 2nd card (savor one) i went crazy and instead of climbing the credit card ladder, i jumped straight for the venture x and surprisingly got approved with a 10k limit. Was that a good or dumb move? given that i basically skipped the credit card ladder?
I have just found your channel & I love it! I have trying to build credit for the last 4 years since I am only in my 20s & now I can see what I am doing & actually benefit from them better than before. I play the credit card game already but you have enlightened me on so many things I have never knew & i am ready to take advantage of. Just got approved for Capital One Venture card as my most recent step forward. Really eager to expand on this! Thanks John. You have earned a new subscriber!
same!! It’s my 2nd cc ever and I didn’t know I actually jumped from Tier 1 to Tier 3, once I graduate and start working FT, I hope to upgrade to the VX
Hi John. Great Video. I have just started looking into expanding my credit cards. I think the Chase Freedom is a great fit for me and I see you mention doubling the cash back for the first year using your affiliate link. Not sure which link to follow! The only chase link I see brings me to the Chase for Business applications. Could you attach the link you are referring to or tell me where to find it in the description?
having the same issue, closet thing i could find is the chase business affiliate link
Thank You Great Information... about Credit Cards vs Charge Credit..
and everything on all levels
Thanks, for the video, last years I have chase freedom unlimited & Amex blue cash preferred for gas & groceries. I just got CSR and thinking getting freedom flex to maximize URP for travel.
Hey Jamie thanks for the comment. You’re crushing it!! Careful of 5/24 and consider the Ink cards eventually! All the best!!
@@johnsfinancetipsWhat’s 5/24? 5 account opening in 2 years?
Watching this video makes me appreciate the credit cards I have 🙏🏽
My wife and I both have separate Level 1 or 2 cards. We both have credit scores around 800. We'd like to up our game to get a card that's working for us more and getting more cash back than what we're currently getting. Is it possible for us to jump a level or should we still slowly build up the ladder?
jump in, and probably get a few sign up bonus cards
This is so useful thank you for making this video!!
Dave Ramsey enters chat.
lol
@johnsfinancetips great video once again! I always find the videos informative and entertaining. I'm in level 2, being someone who got into credit cards after age 21 and it's a fun journey! Thanks again!
Where Is the freedom unlimited referral link? I can't find it
Yeah, I couldn’t find it either
Thank you so much for this video! I've been wanting to add another cc to my wallet for a while now, but a little lost on what's best for me. Your Level 3 & Level 4 breakdown was exactly what I needed! 🙏😃
The Discover It is just a ridiculously good value. I earned $620 dollars in cashback the first year and it's a zero interest card. Year two and beyond it still will give you 5% on some valuable rotating categories with zero cost there's really nothing that beats that for no cost and not hard to get. If you fly a decent bit get the Amex Gold but wait for a high intro offer as they fluctuate. I believe I got 80k points. They also offered me an upgrade to the Platinum with 75k hella quick. That's a really good offer for an upgrade (no hard inquiry and no new account hit to your credit score bc it's not a new account) For a new account I would wait for 120k for Platnium to be worth it and even then only if you travel a good bit.
I don't travel much so after the first year I have to he diligent about taking advantage of the statement credits and random bonus offers to justify the $250 especially since the large downside of Amex Gold/Platinum is no credit limit means you don't get a boost to your available credit or your credit utilization so definitely never put something on there you can't pay off each month. Especially since there are so many zero fee 12-21 month zero interest card offers.
The Amex Gold is still worth it and honestly it's a nice looking good to boot so that plays a role. However the only category I regularly use is gas and restaurants bc they offer a much cheaper $95 credit limit card called Blue Cash Preferred. First year fee is typically waited and comes with a decent bonus first year. Most importantly it offers 6% cashback every year on groceries and streaming services plus a Disney plus slash Hulu plus statement bonus that basically covers the annual fee and I have a young child.
My advice would be get a 2% back on everything zero fee card like the Wells Fargo Cash Back or a few other options, the Discover It, a zero fee high restaurant rewards card, a zero fee or less than 100 fee hotel focused card with a large intro points reward (even if you don't travel a free night at a nearby hotel is great if ur married with kids), and then the Blue Cash Prefrered is the only annual fee I think is definitely worth it for most ppl.
To be clear the $250 refers to the Amex Gold. The Platnium is 600ish and not justifiable with the mix of cards I already have. You really either need to be flying for business a lot or taking really expensive yearly international flights with multiple ppl.
If you do fly constantly for business then try and make sure your employer will let you use your card and reimburse instead of using their card. You can build up an insane amount of rewards if you're flying every few weeks for business. Still there are probably better choices than the Amex Platnium if you don't care about the status symbol that really isn't a status symbol. I got an offer for Amex platnium upgrade a few months after being declined for an Amazon Chase card. Ime Chase is the pickiest about declining you. Amex is one of the least.
i know multiple people who had the black card and they all said its the worst amex card its just too expensive for what you get unless you travel literally every other day. most of these people i have talked to say that they prefer the Amex platinum or Business Gold
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There↑.
John,
What is the most effective way to spend AMEX points without flying? I love to travel but I drive or take trains. I don't fly. The AMEX Gold looks great for me for its potential to earn with my lifestyle, but I'm not sure about redeeming those points. Thanks!
That’s a great question! Unfortunately for the Amex MR program the most value comes from flights. If the 4x grocery and 4x dining is a big spend for you the work around could be using the card for gift cards. So it’s a quasi “cash back”
@John Liang are there any hotel transfer partners for good value? I use hotels plenty, so if good value could be had for that, it might work. The card definitely hits the right spending catagories for me.