My neighbor in Phoenix made me rethink credit cards for good

I used to think all credit cards were bad news, but my neighbor Sarah told me about her cash back card last month. She showed me her statement where she got $75 back just from buying groceries and gas. Now I'm looking into getting one myself, but I'm not sure which type is best for someone who just wants simple rewards. What card worked for you when you were starting out?

4 comments

4 Comments

ninaowens2mo ago

Sarah's $75 cash back is nice, but it's still just a small discount on stuff you already buy. I got a basic card years ago and the rewards never felt like a big deal compared to the hassle. It's fine to get one, just don't expect it to change your life.

wadew512mo agoTop Commenter

Heard some cards offer way bigger sign-up bonuses if you spend a certain amount fast.

mason_lopez2mo ago

Honestly, I felt the same way for years. Then I hit a sign-up bonus that basically paid for a flight, just by putting my normal bills on the card. It made me see the appeal.

the_claire1mo ago

Heck, people really act like a credit card is gonna fix their whole life or something. I mean yeah, $75 back is nice but that's like what, a trip to the grocery store? I've never understood the hype about sign up bonuses either. You gotta spend a bunch of money you weren't planning on spending just to get a few hundred dollars back. It's not free money, it's a game you have to play right or you get burned. If you're not careful you'll overspend just to get that flight paid for and end up in debt. Get a card if you want, but it's not gonna change your life, it's just plastic.