Michelle Lambright Black
The Points Guy
Charlotte, NC, United States
Contact Michelle
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Past articles by Michelle:
3 ways a new credit card could increase your credit score
There are several ways that a new credit card could help your credit score, yet there are a few pitfalls to beware of as well. Here's how a well-managed credit card account has the potential to help your credit score. → Read More
Why paying off credit card balances is more important than ever
Mortgage lenders are using new credit scores to determine loan terms and those scores take into account paying off credit cards in full. Here are the details. → Read More
7 times your credit card’s travel insurance might not cover you
Travel insurance is a benefit many travel rewards credit cards offer, but it won't cover everything. Learn about the reasons why your card's travel insurance may not help. → Read More
8 basic financial services and credit card concepts you should know
Check out this cheat sheet highlighting eight basic financial services and credit card concepts. Includes information on types of debt and how to improve your credit score. → Read More
What is APR on a credit card?
Check out this guide that helps you understand credit card APRs and how they work. Plus, how to avoid high interest charges. → Read More
How to build credit
The guide provides six solid tips on the best ways to build credit. Having good credit matters, whether you’re planning out the perfect rewards credit card to apply for next or you’re preparing to buy your first home. → Read More
How long can negative information hurt your credit score?
When negative information shows up on your credit report, there’s a good chance it may hurt your credit score. From late payments and collection accounts to → Read More
What credit card preapproval really means
Have you ever opened your mailbox to find an advertisement from a credit card company? If so, you may have received a pre-approved offer of credit. → Read More
How changes in medical debt reporting could raise your credit score this summer
This summer, the three major credit bureaus are making some big changes where medical collections are concerned. Equifax, TransUnion and Experian have → Read More
Is 30% credit card utilization the magic number?
As a credit card rewards enthusiast, you already know that keeping your credit score in great shape is important. Good credit is essential if you want to keep → Read More
How to make sure your credit is in great shape for the new year
A good credit score can make life easier in so many ways. Good credit (or better yet, excellent credit) can make it easier to qualify for generous rewards → Read More
Why the end of the year is the perfect time to open a premium credit card
There are many reasons why the end of the year can be a great time to open a new premium rewards credit card. Many of them offer statement credits that reset → Read More
4 ways to manage your spending on multiple credit card accounts
Credit cards can be powerful financial tools. When you use them wisely, your credit cards can protect you from fraud, earn you valuable rewards like cash back → Read More
How American Express helped me when a thief stole 150K Membership Rewards points
It was 4:52 a.m. on Nov. 4, 2021, when I received two unexpected emails about my Platinum Card® from American Express. Unfortunately, I didn’t see the → Read More
What To Do If A Fair Credit Score Limits Your Credit Card Options
Qualifying for a top-tier rewards credit card is a big goal that many people set for themselves. According to the J.D. Power 2021 Credit Card Shopping Study, rewards are the most important feature that influences American’s credit card selections. That’s likely because many of the best rewards cards → Read More
Can a Business Credit Card Hurt Your Personal Credit?
As a small business owner, it makes sense to keep your personal and business finances separate. The same rule applies to your credit reports as well. Whenever your business needs to borrow money, it’s best to do so in the company’s name and keep your personal credit out of it. Yet most business f → Read More
What To Do When You Get Sued For Credit Card Debt
Seventy million Americans struggle with debt in collections status according to a study by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. So, if you have past-due credit card debt of your own, it might comfort you to know that you’re not alone. Despite the fact that having debt in collections is somew → Read More
How Does A Balance Transfer Affect Your Credit Score?
A balance transfer is a debt consolidation strategy that can help you when you’re trying to pay off credit card balances and other high-interest debts. When you manage the process wisely, a new balance transfer credit card has the potential to save you money by lowering your interest fees on a tempo → Read More
What Is A Good Credit Score
A good credit score gets approval for attractive rates and terms for loans. For FICO score, a credit score between 670 and 739 is generally considered “good.” → Read More
I Could Have Avoided Losing Over $4,000 If I'd Just Done This One Thing
Credit cards protect you better than any other payment method. Here are two real-life examples of why it's usually best to pay with a credit card if you can. → Read More