Ray Frager

2 days ago | money.usnews.com | Melanie Pincus |Emily Roth |Ray Frager

Key Takeaways Your mortgage loan estimate will outline the terms and conditions of a lender's approximate offer. You should evaluate your mortgage loan estimate with an eye on affordability. You can get estimates from multiple lenders and compare terms. A mortgage loan estimate is a three-page document that outlines key terms of a mortgage loan that you could receive from a lender. You'll get a mortgage loan estimate after you apply for a loan but before you've been officially approved.

2 days ago | money.usnews.com | Jessica Merritt |Emily Roth |Ray Frager

Getty ImagesBe sure to pay your balance in full before interest charges apply, or you'll wipe out the value of your rewards. Key Takeaways You might be tempted to overspend for credit card rewards, especially when chasing a sign-up bonus. Carrying a balance can result in interest charges that quickly wipe out the value of rewards you've earned. Spending within your budget and paying off balances before interest charges apply is the best way to benefit from rewards.

4 days ago | money.usnews.com | Jessica Merritt |Emily Hayes |Ray Frager

Getty ImagesThe quick and limited application process makes BNPL options attractive to consumers with limited access to credit. Key Takeaways BNPL offers short-term affordability, but mismanagement creates budgeting risks. Credit cards can provide rewards and credit-building benefits with more flexibility. BNPL isn't likely to replace credit cards but may become a tool for managing specific purchases.

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

Key Takeaways Use a cash back credit card or travel rewards credit card at the grocery store so you're earning rewards on those ribs you're buying for the cookout. Check card offers in your credit card/bank app to see where else you can earn and redeem rewards. If you're traveling this summer, use points and miles to ease the financial burden and check travel partners for additional savings.

1 week ago | money.usnews.com | Ray Frager |Emily Hayes

Key Takeaways Chase announced major changes to its Sapphire Reserve, with a higher annual fee beginning June 23 for new cardholders. Chase also introduced Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business. Annual credits now equal over $2,000 in potential value. The Chase Sapphire Reserve®, well established as a high-end travel rewards credit card, is becoming even more bougie, as the issuer has announced a 44.5% increase in its already-hefty annual fee.