Find Your Perfect Card
There is no magic number, but 2–4 cards optimized for different categories (dining, travel, gas) maximizes rewards without overwhelming you.
Each application causes a hard inquiry (5–10 point drop) that recovers in 3–6 months. Opening the card also lowers average account age.
Basic cards: 580+. Rewards cards: 670+. Premium travel cards (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum): 740+.
Only if the perks exceed the fee. A $95 fee card is worth it if you use $150+ in benefits or bonus categories.
Ranked using our independent 5-factor methodology.
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