Adriana Ocanas

1 week ago | money.usnews.com | Jessica Merritt |Ray Frager |Adriana Ocanas

Getty ImagesA late payment could stain your credit score for as long as seven years. Key Takeaways If you're a few days late on your credit card payment, you can still make it right without it affecting your credit score. You'll most likely face a late fee, but you can ask your issuer to waive it – especially if it's your first late payment with that issuer. Once a payment is 30 days late, it appears on your credit report and will lower your credit score.

1 month ago | money.usnews.com | Adriana Ocanas |Ray Frager

Key Takeaways April is Financial Literacy Month, and U.S. News found that many U.S. consumers lack general financial knowledge. About 53% of respondents don't know FICO scores are the scores lenders look at to determine your creditworthiness, and over half incorrectly say carrying a balance month to month boosts your credit score. Over 30% say they don't seek out financial advice at all, while another 45% say they go to friends and family with their finance questions.

1 month ago | money.usnews.com | Adriana Ocanas |Ray Frager

Dear Clever Credit,Other than flights and hotels, what is the best way to use Chase Ultimate Rewards points? We have about 220K points, but we're no longer able to travel. Any ideas? Signed,Grounded ChaserDear Grounded,There are plenty of other ways you can redeem your Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Granted, you're going to get the most out of them if you spend them on travel, but don't worry. There are other ways you can spend that buttload of points.

1 month ago | money.usnews.com | Adriana Ocanas |Ray Frager

Key Takeaways The Instacart Mastercard earns decent rewards for a co-branded credit card. Instacart loyalists – who already pay for an Instacart+ membership – would benefit the most from this credit card. If you use multiple delivery apps, you're probably better off with a general rewards card. Grocery prices have continued to rise, and consumers are looking for ways to ease that necessary burden. For example, a friend of mine has her own chicken coop so she gets free eggs whenever she wants now.

1 month ago | money.usnews.com | Adriana Ocanas |Ray Frager

Key Takeaways A number of credit card issuers have pulled back on DEI practices, including Bank of America, Capital One and more. Other issuers – like Barclays and Chase – have been vocal about their refusal to roll back DEI practices and policies. No matter which side of the aisle you stand, now is a good time to reevaluate your credit cards if you want to put your money where your mouth is.