Credit Cards in the US: How to Choose, Improve Your Score and Use Them Wisely Credit cards are a fundamental tool in the financial system in the United States, offering convenience, security and the opportunity to build (or recover) a good credit history. However, to make the most of them, it is essential to understand how they work, how they affect your credit score and how to choose the ideal card for your profile. The Importance of Credit Score In the US, a credit score is a number that reflects your financial reputation, generally ranging from 300 to 850. The higher, the better—and this influences everything from loan approval to the interest rates you pay. Major credit bureaus, such as Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, calculate this score based on: Payment history (35%) Credit utilization (30%) Length of credit history (15%) New accounts and inquiries (10%) Credit mix (10%) Experts like John Ulzheimer, formerly of FICO, and sites like NerdWallet and Credit Karma, point out that paying bills on time and keeping credit utilization below 30% are the best practices for improving your score. Choosing the Right Card for Your Profile Not all cards are created equal, and the best option depends on your financial profile: Beginners/Those building credit: Secured cards (like Discover it® Secured) or store cards help build credit history. Those with good credit: Rewards cards, like Chase Sapphire Preferred® or American Express Gold, offer cash back, miles, and benefits. Those looking to rebuild credit: Options like the Capital One Platinum can help, as long as they’re used with discipline. When is the Best Time to Get a Card? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but some ideal scenarios include: When you have a steady income and can pay your balance in full each month. When you need to improve or establish a credit history (e.g., young adults or immigrants). When you want to take advantage of sign-up bonuses (like the 60,000 points on the Chase Sapphire Preferred®, which are worth $750 toward travel). Other Important Considerations Interest Rate (APR): Avoid paying high interest—if possible, pay your balance in full. Annual Fee: Some cards are worth it (like the Amex Platinum, with premium benefits), but consider whether it’s worth it for you. Fraud Protection: Cards like those from Citi and Capital One have great security systems. References and Trusted Sources To compare cards, see: NerdWallet The Points Guy (specializes in miles and rewards) Bankrate (for analysis of rates and benefits) In short, a credit card in the US can be a powerful ally if used responsibly. Choose the best one for your needs, maintain a healthy score and enjoy the benefits without falling into debt!