How many credit cards is too many?
Credit cards can be highly valuable for responsible users, offering sign-up bonuses, rewards on everyday spending, and perks that save money. Utilizing multiple credit cards can help you maximize these benefits, but the question remains: how many credit cards is too many? The answer depends on your financial situation, money management skills, and personal preferences. Here’s what you need to know.
The Benefits of Using Multiple Credit Cards
There are many credit cards available, but no single card suits everyone perfectly. Using two or more cards can provide more value. Here’s why:
Different Rewards Rates
Rewards credit cards offer cash back, points, or miles on everyday purchases, but rates vary by card. It’s crucial to choose cards that align with your spending habits. For example, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express offers 6% cash back on up to $6,000 spent per year at U.S. supermarkets (then 1%), 6% back on select U.S. streaming services, 3% back on transit and at U.S. gas stations, and 1% back on everything else (see rates and fees). To maximize rewards on non-bonus spending, you might add the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card, which offers a flat 2% cash back on all purchases.
Complementary Perks
Different cards offer various perks that can save money or enhance experiences. For frequent travelers, a general travel credit card like the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers complimentary airport lounge access. If you’re loyal to a specific airline, an airline credit card like the United℠ Explorer Card offers free checked bags, priority boarding, and in-flight discounts. A hotel credit card like the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card provides elite status perks, a free night annually, and other benefits at IHG hotels.
More Available Credit
A key factor in your credit score is your credit utilization rate, which measures how much of your available credit you’re using. For example, if you have a $2,000 balance on a single card with a $3,000 limit, your utilization rate is 67%, which can hurt your credit score. Spreading that $2,000 across three cards with a total limit of $10,000 reduces your utilization rate and can help improve your credit score. However, this only benefits you if you maintain the same spending level and don’t rack up more debt.
How Many Credit Cards is Too Many?
There’s no simple rule for how many credit cards you should have. It depends on several factors unique to your situation:
Your Credit Score
If you’re new to credit or have a low score, using multiple cards can help build credit. However, applying for too many cards in a short period can lower your score. The best credit cards are typically for those with good or excellent credit, so initially, it might make sense to have one or two cards. If you have a great credit score, more cards may offer additional benefits.
Money Management Skills
Multiple credit cards can unlock more value but can also complicate your finances. Keeping track of due dates and transactions becomes harder with more cards. You can simplify this by aligning due dates and using budgeting apps to track transactions. However, if managing multiple cards becomes stressful, you might have too many.
General Preferences
Your preferences determine how many cards you should have. If you prefer simplicity and are not interested in maximizing rewards across different cards, one card may suffice. Conversely, if you enjoy optimizing your financial plan, multiple cards might be beneficial.
Keep in Mind
There’s no definitive rule for how many credit cards is too many. It’s essential to understand your unique situation, needs, and preferences. Before applying for a new card, consider your priorities and whether it complements your existing cards. Shop around and compare options to avoid redundant rewards or benefits.
By carefully managing your credit card strategy, you can maximize rewards and benefits while maintaining a healthy financial profile.
