The cards I actually use.
These are my top picks — the cards I'd open first or recommend first to a friend. You do not need all of them. Start with one. Build from there. The "Start slow, then go fast" rule applies here more than anywhere else.
The Transfer Partner Cheat Sheet
Every transfer partner for Chase, Amex, Capital One, Citi, and Bilt — with the exact ratios — on one printable sheet. Plus my seven golden rules of transferring, so you never move points to the wrong place.
Updated October 2026 · 3 pages · Save it to your phone for booking day.
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The questions everyone asks.
Before you apply for anything, read these. I get the same questions in my DMs all the time.
Will this wreck my credit score?
Honest answer: no, if you do it right. My credit score has steadily climbed over the past 3.5 years. Pay your bills on time, never close a card before it's been open a year, and follow the recommended pacing. The hard inquiry from a new card causes a small temporary dip — but on-time payments and increased total credit limit pull your score back up (and often higher).
How often should I apply for new cards?
My general rule: every 90 days. Not a hard rule — sometimes a killer offer comes along and I'll do 30. If you have a Player 2 (spouse/partner), alternate. I open one, hit the spend, then my husband opens his. Doubles the household earn rate.
What if I can't hit the minimum spend?
Time the application around natural large expenses — insurance payments, car repairs, back-to-school shopping, tuition. You can also pay for friends/family and have them reimburse you. Never overspend just to hit a bonus — interest charges will wipe out any rewards.
Do I qualify for business cards?
Probably yes. Selling on FB Marketplace, Etsy, freelancing on the side, running a short-term rental — all count as a sole proprietorship. You don't need an LLC or EIN. Business cards are the secret weapon for sustaining this hobby.
I'm overwhelmed. Where do I actually start?
One card. Just one. For most beginners, I recommend the Chase Sapphire Preferred. Open it. Hit the spend. Earn your first welcome bonus. See what 60K+ points actually look like. Then we talk about card #2.
Not sure which card is right for you?
Send me an email — most simple questions I answer for free. Or book a 1:1 call and we'll map your whole 12-month plan.
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