I turned 40 in 2022. Along with checking a different box for "age range" on forms these days, I'm also taking a fresh look at both my credit and my credit card strategy.
If you've hit the big four-oh like me (or are getting close), you probably started learning about credit a few decades ago. From saving money and paying your credit card bills the right way, you've hopefully got a good credit score at this point. If so, congratulations. Good credit takes years of discipline.
However, good credit is only meaningful if you're using it — not sitting on a shelf somewhere collecting dust. In fact, now may be the perfect time to take a look at your credit card strategy and see how much value you're getting from it. If you're leaving points, miles or cash-back opportunities on the table, it's probably time for an adjustment.
Related: 7 credit cards every 30-year-old should consider
Let's talk about the three different types of credit cards every 40-year-old should have.
If you don't already have a great travel rewards credit card — or if you have a card that's not giving you enough bang for your buck — it might be worth applying for a new account. Travel rewards cards can offer more than just a monstrous introductory bonus: they can offer ongoing perks, benefits, points and miles that lead to (nearly) free travel or everyday benefits that improve your quality of life.
However, keep in mind that travel reward cards often charge an annual fee — sometimes a hefty one. The Platinum Card® from American Express, for example, charges its cardholders a $695 annual fee (see rates and fees).
For many people, the benefits of premium travel rewards cards can outweigh the cost. Plus, welcome offers for new applicants can add significant value to these cards during the first year.
Take the Platinum Card as an example: its current welcome offer is 80,000 bonus Membership Rewards points after spending $8,000 on the card within the first six months of card membership. By TPG's August 2024 valuations, this bonus is worth $1,600.
Related: Is the Amex Platinum worth the annual fee?
There are also plenty of less-expensive travel cards available if you see this annual fee as a turnoff. Other cards worthy of your consideration include:
Read our full card review here.
Read our full card review here.
Read our full card review here.
Read our full card review here.
Read our full card review here.
Read our full card review here.
Read our full card review here.
Read our full card review here.
* Bonus value is based on TPG's August 2024 valuations and not the card issuer.
Every 40-year-old should have a travel rewards credit card that earns bonus points at places where you tend to spend money, that adds perks and benefits to
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Priority Pass is a network of over 1,600 lounges, restaurants and experiences at 600-plus airports in more than 150 countries. Memberships are available for purchase, but several credit cards, including The Platinum Card® from American Express, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, include a Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required) as a perk of card ownership.
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When you apply for a great travel rewards card, the last thing you want is to be turned down. The sign-up bonus, the benefits and the points earned are luring you in, so you'll want to do everything possible to be approved.