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The economy is still humming, tariffs and all, say top banks

15 July 2025 at 17:30
Side by Side of Citi CEO Jane Fraser,  and JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon

Getty Images

  • JPMorgan and Citi reported strong consumer spending and borrowing despite economic uncertainty.
  • Investment banking activity also rebounded as companies shrugged off tariff concerns.
  • The data surprised Wall Street watchers, but the economy is not out of the woods yet.

The labor market is rocky, costs are climbing, and uncertainty hangs over the economy. Yet consumers and businesses are showing few signs of strain β€” at least according to some of Wall Street's biggest banks.

Bank earnings season kicked off Tuesday with JPMorgan Chase and Citi reporting strong consumer spending and borrowing, and unexpected jumps in fees tied to M&A and other investment banking activity.

"We continue to struggle to see signs of weakness," JPMorgan's chief financial officer, Jeremy Barnum, said in a Tuesday conference call to discuss the results. The consumer "basically seems to be fine," he added.

The comments suggest that American households β€” even amid stubborn inflation and higher borrowing costs β€” are still swiping, spending, and managing their finances, in many cases more than expected.

Businesses are also showing signs of resilience. Both JPMorgan and Citi also said investment banking activity rebounded last quarter as companies decided to ignore tariff uncertainty and move ahead with mergers, acquisitions, or capital raising.

In one potential sign of consumer strength, JPMorgan said it's seen "positive early reactions" to the costly refresh of its marquee Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card, which now costs $795, up from $550.

JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon acknowledged on Tuesday that some people were taken aback by the cost hike but said many are continuing to pay the hefty annual fee.

"I've got a lot of comments from people, from friends of my kids," he said, adding that some people have said they are keeping it for what he called "value-added" benefits like access to the Chase Sapphire lounge at the La Guardia Airport.

Inflation remains a factor

At JPMorgan, revenue in the Consumer and Community Banking division rose 6% year-over-year to $18.8 billion, while net income increased 23% to nearly $5.2 billion. Spending on credit and debit cards increased 7% from a year earlier, and average loans across the consumer segment ticked up 1%. Charge-offs on card loans, a key measure of borrower stress, held relatively steady at 3.4%.

Citigroup reported an 11% increase in branded cards revenue, and said average card loans rose 5% in the quarter to $114 billion. Spending volumes increased 4% from the year before to $136 billion. Retail banking revenue also jumped, helped by higher deposit spreads, the firm said.

"We saw good growth in branded cards while retail banking benefited from higher deposit spreads," CEO Jane Fraser said. She expressed a positive outlook for Citi's core consumer business.

The data follows signs of an improving job market in June, even as tech giants and other large companies slash jobs in an effort to cut costs, and the Trump administration warns of looming cuts to government jobs.

Inflation ticked higher in June, rising to 2.7% from 2.4% the month before, according to new government data released Monday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It's the second straight month prices have accelerated, with increases seen in food, clothing, rent, and furniture.

The bump was partly blamed on new tariffs, and it may give the Federal Reserve pause as it weighs whether to cut interest rates later this year. For now, markets are dialing back expectations for a rate cut in July or September, analysts said in reactions to the data. One analyst predicted the full impact of Trump's tariffs wouldn't materialize in inflationary data till later this summer.

JPMorgan's investment banking fees rose 7%, driven by gains in debt underwriting and advisory work. Citi reported a 13% jump in fees, led by equity capital markets and advisory β€” two areas that have struggled since the Fed's rate-hiking cycle cooled dealmaking in 2022 and 2023.

Read the original article on Business Insider

3 Warning Signs Your Credit Card Perks Aren't Worth the Annual Fee


A generic white credit card on top of a stop sig with beiger background.

Premium credit cards promise a lot -- huge welcome offers, travel upgrades, statement credits, and exclusive perks.

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But those benefits often come with a steep price tag. And if you're not using the card strategically, you might be paying far more than you're getting back.

Just because a card has premium perks doesn't mean it's a good fit for you. Below are three warning signs that you're not getting your money's worth -- and what you can do instead.

1. You won't spend enough to earn the welcome bonus

One of the biggest incentives to open a new credit card is the welcome bonus. Many premium cards offer bonuses worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars if you meet a spending requirement, usually within the first three to six months.

But these minimums aren't always small. You might need to spend thousands over the course of just a few months to qualify. If that's far above your normal monthly spending, hitting the target can be tough.

And if you're forcing purchases just to reach the bonus, you're putting yourself at risk of carrying a balance and paying interest -- quickly wiping out the value of any rewards.

If you're not sure you can meet the requirement without overspending or going into debt, it's a sign the card might not be worth it.

Want a card with a more reasonable spending requirement? Check out our list of the best no-annual-fee credit cards to get started.

2. The perks don't match your lifestyle

A premium card is only worth the cost if you're actually using the perks it offers. It's easy to get aspirational when you apply for a credit card -- some people overestimate how often they'll use benefits like airport lounge access, free hotel nights, or travel credits.

For example, a travel rewards card might offer a $300 travel credit -- but if you rarely travel or never book through the card's portal, that credit could go unused. The same goes for more niche perks like Uber Cash, streaming credits or fitness-related discounts. These can sound great on paper, but if they don't match your daily routine or preferences, they won't deliver real value.

Before renewing a card with a high annual fee, take a moment to look back over the past year. Which perks did you actually use? Which ones went untouched? If the answer skews heavily toward the latter, it's time to consider a downgrade.

3. You already have a card with similar perks

It's common to carry multiple rewards cards -- but that makes it easy to overlook overlapping benefits. If two or more of your cards offer things like trip insurance, purchase protection, or the similar bonus categories, you're probably paying for a card you don't need.

If you keep both, you'll likely end up favoring one card over the other, anyway, while one of them collects dust -- despite its hefty annual fee.

Every so often, it's smart to lay out your cards side by side and compare them directly. If one card clearly does the job of two, you can save money by closing or downgrading the less useful one.

Match your credit cards to your lifestyle today

The perks of a premium credit card can be valuable, but only if they match your actual spending habits and lifestyle.

If you're paying a high annual fee without getting enough back, it's time to rethink your strategy. In these cases, a lower-fee or no-annual-fee card could offer more value long-term.

Looking for a more affordable credit card option? See our picks for the best no-annual-fee credit cards available now.

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We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Uber Technologies. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Tired of Credit Card Rejections? Here's How to Get Approved


A dark blue credit card on beige and coral background with sparkles.

Getting denied for a credit card feels frustrating and, honestly, a little personal. But most of the time, it's not about you. It's about applying for the wrong card or missing a few key steps that can seriously boost your approval odds.

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With a little prep, you can avoid another "no" and finally get the approval you're hoping for. Here's what to know before you apply, and how to give yourself the best shot at hearing "you're approved!"

1. Know your credit score before you apply

Every credit card is designed for a certain type of borrower. Some cards are meant for people with excellent credit. Others are built for beginners. If you don't know your score, you're basically guessing at which cards might fit.

You can check your score for free through Experian, and your bank may offer free credit scores as well. I personally use my Chase app -- it gives me a quick overview of what's helping or hurting my score, and that context matters. (Like when it told me my history was "good" but not "great" because my card wasn't old enough. Annoying, but helpful.)

2. Pick a card that matches your credit profile

This is where most rejections happen. People apply for premium rewards cards when their credit doesn't qualify yet. That mismatch almost guarantees a no.

If your score is still a work in progress, look for cards designed for fair credit or secured cards that require a deposit. These cards aren't flashy, but they're easier to get approved for, and they can help you build your way up to rewards cards.

3. Use prequalification tools

Before applying, see if you're prequalified. It takes a soft credit check (so no harm to your score), and it helps narrow down which cards you actually have a shot at getting.

Most major issuers offer this on their websites. You'll enter some basic info -- name, address, last four digits of your Social -- and see if any cards come up. It's not a guarantee, but if you see an offer, that's a good sign.

4. Lower your credit card balances (if you can)

Your credit utilization -- i.e., how much of your available credit you're using -- is a big factor in your score. Try to keep it under 30%, or under 10% if you really want to look responsible to lenders.

Even paying off a few hundred bucks before you apply can give your score a helpful boost.

5. Don't rush. Apply smart

Once you've found a card that fits your profile, apply online through the issuer's site. Have your personal info and income ready. And only apply for one card at a time -- too many applications can temporarily ding your score.

Bottom line

Applying for a credit card doesn't have to feel like a shot in the dark. With a little prep and the right card, you can turn a string of rejections into your first approval, and start unlocking the rewards and credit-building benefits that come with it.

We've reviewed hundreds of credit cards to find the ones that actually deliver -- whether you're rebuilding, starting fresh, or finally ready for rewards. Compare top picks side by side and find the one that fits you.

Alert: highest cash back card we've seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

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Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Brooklyn Welch has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends JPMorgan Chase. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

This Personal Loan Mistake Could Cost You Thousands in 2025


A light blue calculator and silver credit card against hot pink background.

Right now, the average personal loan interest rate is 12.65%, according to Bankrate. But what if there was a way to get a 0% interest rate for almost two full years instead?

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Before taking out a personal loan, see if you can qualify for a 0% intro APR credit card. In many cases, you can accomplish the same goals -- like consolidating high-interest debt or financing a large purchase -- without paying any interest at all.

This strategy isn't talked about enough, but it could save you thousands in 2025. Let's break down how it works.

What is a 0% intro APR credit card?

A 0% intro APR credit card lets you avoid interest charges for a promotional period, often 12 to 21 months.

The no-interest period can be for either:

  • New purchases (useful for big expenses you want to split into payments)
  • Balance transfers (good for consolidating and paying off existing high-interest debt)

Some cards offer both.

During the 0% APR promo window, every dollar you pay goes toward your actual balance, not toward interest. It's like hitting "pause" on the cost of borrowing.

This can be an amazing tool for people who are stuck with a mountain of existing credit card debt. Pausing interest gives them breathing room to pay down principal, and get out of debt faster with less interest.

If you're looking for a longer 0% APR period, check out this card that we recommend. It offers nearly two years of 0% intro APR for both new purchases and balance transfers. That's a huge window of time to make payments and pay no interest.

Why personal loans aren't always the best choice

I get why people like personal loans. They're great for bigger projects and payoff timeframes stretching multiple years. They're also predictable, structured, and can be easier to qualify for with fair credit.

But here's the problem. The interest starts immediately, and the rates aren't exactly cheap.

For example, let's say you take out a $10,000 personal loan at 11% APR for two years. Your total interest paid would be over $1,185.

Now compare that to putting that same $10,000 on a 0% intro APR card and paying it off over 21 months. You could pay zero in interest if you're disciplined.

When using a 0% intro APR card makes sense

Credit cards aren't magic. They can be a double-edge sword which can either help your finances or hurt them.

Here's when 0% intro APR credit cards make sense:

Paying off high-interest credit card debt

Balance transfer cards let you move your existing balance(s) to a new card with 0% APR for a set period.

Making a large one-time purchase

Got an unexpected car repair or medical bill? Instead of financing it with a personal loan, a 0% intro APR card can let you pay it off gradually over a lengthy promo period.

You have good-to-excellent credit

Most of the top 0% intro APR cards require good credit or higher (typically 670+). So definitely check your score first before applying.

What to watch out for

Two quick gotchas that you should be aware of:

  1. Balance transfers come with a fee. This is usually 3% to 5% of whatever balance you transfer over. This isn't too bad though, as it's usually more than offset by the interest you can save.
  2. The 0% intro APR period eventually ends. And when it runs out, the normal APR for the credit card will kick in (and it's likely super high!). So if you anticipate needing a loan for two years or longer, a personal loan may be a better fit.

Using a 0% intro APR credit card instead of a personal loan could save you hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars over the next couple years.

I've seen folks use these cards to escape debt faster, tackle emergencies, or finally feel in control again. It's a tool, not a shortcut -- but the right tool can make all the difference.

Looking for an interest-free alternative to a short-term personal loan? Explore the top 0% intro APR cards with up to 21 months of no interest

Alert: highest cash back card we've seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it's so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Still Using a Debit Card for Travel? That Mistake Could Be Costing You Thousands


Beach scene with palm trees and light grey credit card poking out of the sand.

I know, I know… Using your debit card is easy. It's familiar. It keeps you out of credit card troubles. I totally get it.

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But seriously, if you're still using a debit card to pay for travel stuff -- like flights, hotels, or rental cars -- you might be unknowingly leaving hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars on the table.

Not to mention, you could be missing out on some other perks and protections that can save your trip if things go sideways.

Here's everything you need to know -- and how to switch things up without overcomplicating your life.

Credit card rewards can offset your entire trip

Let's talk numbers. Many of the best travel cards offer anywhere between 2% to 5% back in rewards on travel-related purchases. That may not sound like much -- until you add it all up…

Say you spend $3,000 on flights, hotels, and food during a single trip. That could net you an easy $60 - $150 or more in rewards, depending on the card you have.

And that's just for a single trip! If you're traveling multiple times a year, and using the card on regular purchases, it's easy to rack up over $500 in annual travel rewards.

Debit cards don't offer anything close to this in rewards.

If you're looking for an easy starter travel card, check out this crowd favorite from Chase. I've personally used it for years, and right now it comes with a massive welcome offer for a limited time.

Built-in protections can save your trip (and your wallet)

Beyond points, another huge benefit of travel cards is built in protections and insurance.

Here are just a few of the protections you can get when you book travel with the right cards:

  • Trip cancellation or interruption coverage: Get reimbursed if your trip gets delayed or canceled for covered reasons
  • Lost luggage reimbursement: Receive money if your bags go MIA
  • Rental car insurance: Decline the rental company's pricey coverage and still be protected
  • Emergency assistance: Access help abroad, from medical referrals to travel coordination

If you book travel with a debit card, you probably won't get any of these. That means if your plans go sideways, you're likely on your own -- financially and logistically.

How to switch smartly (and maximize your rewards)

Here's a simple four-step way to dip your toe in the credit card rewards pool:

  1. Pick a starter travel card -- Here's our best travel cards list. You can't go wrong with either of the top two.
  2. Start with travel bookings -- Use this credit card only when buying flights, hotel stays, or rental cars.
  3. Pay it off right away -- Treat it like a debit card by paying the balance in full after each use.
  4. Track your rewards -- Use the issuer's portal or app to see how quickly your points add up.

This strategy gives you all the best rewards, protections, and perks, without risking credit card debt or overspending.

Interested in even more travel perks, like VIP status upgrades or lounge access? Compare all our top-rated travel credit cards here for 2025.

You're booking travel anyway. Might as well earn rewards by using different cards. Your next trip could pay for your next-next trip. Just sayin'!

Alert: highest cash back card we've seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it's so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Joel O'Leary has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends JPMorgan Chase. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

People are freaking out over the new $795 Chase Sapphire Reserve card. I never got one — and I'm finally vindicated

24 June 2025 at 21:37
Chase Sapphire Reserve logo on a building
I never got a Chase Sapphire Reserve. Now I'm glad!

Bryan Steffy/Getty Images

Some financial windfalls are all about the timing β€” and luck: A handful of California gold nuggets in 1848. A SoHo loft in 1984. Bitcoin in 2013. A home mortgage rate in 2020.

I've made peace with missing out on some of life's chances to accidentally inflate my financial standing in the world. But the one that has always made me slightly sick to my stomach is missing out on the late 2016 Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card points bonanza.

Now, my painful case of FOMO has been cured.

Last week, Chase said it was revamping the Sapphire Reserve β€” and upping its annual fee to $795, from the current $550. And it's making a bunch of changes to its rewards structure, which some people are downright furious about. They say they'll cancel. (Chase says its card will become even more valuable, with "over $2,700 in annual value.")

Well, as a world-class hater, sore loser, and jealous snake, I couldn't be more thrilled.

When the new yearly fee and rewards were announced last week, I watched in absolute glee as friends of mine and strangers on the internet lamented and wailed at the fact that the card that had once showered them with rewards points would not be worth the fee (again, only for some people).

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card had attained a millennial mythos akin only to avocado toast and entitled attitudes. It came during the peak of the ZIRP and "millennial lifestyle subsidy" eras: Ubers were cheap, and the credit card points flowed like The Fat Jewish's personal rosΓ© brand. The card β€” especially if you signed up in the early days β€” gave you a massive points bonus that could be used for travel or other perks.

It seemed almost impossible not to have the credit card make you money (of course, assuming you paid off your balances and wisely used the points).

Chase Sapphire Reserve personal and business cards
The new benefits β€” and costs β€” attached to the Chase Sapphire Reserve sparked a firestorm. I finally can let go of my FOMO for not having one.

BusinessWire via AP

I never had the Chase Sapphire Reserve; when it launched, my friends were excited and extolling its virtues, but I thought I needed another credit card and was intimidated by the points gaming. At some point, I realized I had missed the boat. I didn't get in while the getting was good.

Now, I've been reading the r/SapphireReserve subreddit with glee, seeing some of the former evangelists of the card defeated by its new fee. The main post about the news: "Welp. It's bad and official."

I should note here that the card may indeed still be a good deal for some people β€” it matters how much you spend, and what kind of rewards/perks you're most interested in.

The perks, however, are not exactly what everyone wants, like Apple TV+ or Apple Music subscriptions (less appealing for a Spotify user). There are credits for certain hotels from Chase's selection of hand-picked hotels (which may not be the ones you want). If you spend $75,000 a year on the card, you will get status on Southwest Airlines.

But as one Redditor said: "Who is spending $75k per year on this card that also wants status on Southwest Airlines?"

As for Chase, it touts 8X points on all Chase Travel purchases, which is up from 5X on flights, but slightly down from 10X on hotels and car rentals. It also touts 4X points on flights and hotels purchased directly with the airline or hotel, up from 3X.

The points system for the card is somewhat complicated (part of why I have always avoided a points-based card), and people's individual situations will vary a lot about whether this card is better or worse or worth it. For some people, the higher yearly fee will net out with all the new rewards; for others, they're thinking of downgrading to a cheaper version or canceling altogether.

I wish all of the Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders the best journey to the path that works best for them. Me, I'm just feeling a huge burden lifted off my shoulders. Ahhhh ….

Read the original article on Business Insider

What Does a $50K Credit Limit Actually Mean -- and Should You Want One?


A generic black credit card in a stream of gold.

Your credit limit is the maximum amount a lender allows you to borrow on a credit card. So higher is better, right?

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In most cases, yes. A $50,000 credit limit, for example, means you likely have a strong credit history, high income, and low existing debt. But for big spenders, a high credit limit comes with risks.

Here's what you need to know about the pros and cons of a $50,000 credit limit.

Benefits of a high credit limit

Greater financial flexibility

A high credit limit can be a great way to pay for big purchases or cover you in an emergency.

You never want to charge more than you can pay off in full. That's why everyone needs an emergency fund in a savings account. But a high-limit credit card can come in very handy when you need to cover a big expense -- especially if it's on short notice.

Improved credit utilization ratio

Credit utilization is the ratio of your credit card balances to your credit limits, and it accounts for about 30% of your credit score. Basically, credit issuers like to see that you're not always using up most or all of the credit they're giving you.

If you maintain low balances, a higher credit limit will lower your credit utilization ratio and increase your credit score.

Valuable rewards and perks

Premium, high-limit credit cards often come with superior rewards, including higher cash back rates, travel rewards, and exclusive offers.

Click here to check out one travel credit card with a minimum credit limit of $5,000 and user-reported limits reaching $50,000 or more. You'll also earn boosted points in certain categories like travel and dining, and a higher redemption value for your points when redeemed through the issuer's portal.

Risks of a high credit limit

Potential for overspending

A higher limit may tempt some people to spend beyond their means, leading to increased debt and financial strain.

If you have a history of overspending, it's probably smart to start with a lower credit limit and slowly work your way up.

Impact on credit score

While a higher limit can improve your credit utilization ratio, carrying a high balance can harm it. It'll also result in interest charges if you don't pay it off on time.

Always remember the number one rule of credit cards: Never spend more than you can pay off in full every month. Try to avoid carrying a monthly balance at all costs.

Should you aim for a $50,000 credit limit?

A $50,000 credit limit can be a blessing or a curse. Consider the following:

  • Financial discipline: If you consistently pay off your balances in full, a higher limit can be a plus.
  • Income level: A higher income may justify a larger credit limit if you're spending lots every month.
  • Credit goals: A higher limit can lower your credit utilization ratio and thus improve your credit score.

If you struggle with managing credit or are prone to overspending, however, a lower limit may be a better starting point.

Want to build up to a higher credit limit today? Consider one of the cards from our expert-curated best high-limit credit cards list as your starting point.

Alert: highest cash back card we've seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it's so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Don't Use Auto-Pay Until You Check This Credit Card Setting


Woman using tablet and writing on a notepad.

Image source: Getty Images

Whenever I get a new credit card, the first thing I do is set up auto-pay.

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It's a no-brainer -- it guarantees I'll never miss a payment by accident, and the bank just pulls the money straight from my checking account.

But choosing the wrong auto-pay settings (or just accepting the bank's default) can cost you big time. If you're not careful, you could end up only paying the minimum due -- while the rest of your balance racks up interest.

Here's how to make sure auto-pay is actually working for you.

Understanding your auto-pay options

When you set up auto-pay, most banks offer a few choices:

  • Pay the minimum payment (usually 1% to 3% of your balance)
  • Pay the statement balance (everything you owed last billing cycle)
  • Pay the current balance (everything you owe up to that time)

If you're not paying attention, it's really easy to choose "minimum payment." But this means over 95% of your statement rolls over to the next month. Next, interest is charged, typically compounding daily, and things get ugly real quick.

Best practices when setting up auto-pay

Here are a few tips for when you set up auto-pay:

  1. Choose "pay statement balance" (if possible). This pays off what you owed last cycle, on time, every time. You'll avoid paying any interest, and you don't need to pay for today's new purchases yet.
  2. Set up "pay current balance" if you're a heavy spender. This will pay everything you owe -- including recent charges -- so you're fully caught up. As a side benefit, this keeps your credit utilization as low as possible, which helps your credit score.
  3. Double-check your bank's default setting. Before finalizing, make sure you're not accidentally locked into minimum payments.
  4. Set a reminder a few days before due dates. Even with auto-pay, it's smart to eyeball your checking account balance and make sure you've definitely got the funds to cover your payment.

Got a big balance you can't seem to knock out? Check out our picks for the best 0% intro APR balance transfer cards -- some cards offer nearly two years of interest-free breathing room to finally eliminate your debt.

What happens if you only pay the minimum

Here's an example of the consequences of only making minimum payments:

My wife and I usually put about $3,500 a month on our credit cards. Let's say we only paid the minimum -- maybe 2% of the balance, or about $70.

The rest of the balance would roll over and start racking up interest. My credit card APR sits at about 22% right now, so this means I'll pay $63 in interest the first month.

And if we kept rolling that balance over without paying it off? We'd fork over hundreds -- even thousands -- of dollars in interest over the course of a year (while also racking up a ridiculous balance!)

Smart habits, bigger wins

Setting up auto-pay the right way isn't just about avoiding late fees.

It's a key part of building smart credit card habits. Responsible usage keeps you out of debt and puts you in full control of your cash.

Looking to upgrade your wallet? Explore our top-rated credit cards to make sure you're getting the most from your money.

Alert: highest cash back card we've seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

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