As a member of the military community, you may often find yourself seeking advice from fellow service members on various topics. One popular subject that often pops up on discussion forums like Reddit is personal finance, particularly credit cards. In this article, we'll be exploring the best credit cards for military personnel, as suggested by the Reddit community, to provide you with a comprehensive guide to make an informed decision. Let's dive in!
Best Credit Cards For Military Reddit Table of Contents
Major Factors for Military Credit Cards
No Annual fee:
Many credit card companies waive annuals fees for service members, ensuring that extra expenses won't strain your wallet.
Low APR:
Look for cards that offer a low interest rate, as this can save you money in the long run by reducing the finance charges on purchases.
Reward Programs:
Excellent rewards and cashback programs can help you maximize the returns on your everyday spending.
Travel Benefits:
If you frequently travel for duty or leisure, opt for cards that offer travel perks like free checked bags, airport lounge access, and hotel upgrades.
Top Military Credit Cards According to Reddit
American Express Platinum Card:
A highly recommended card, the Amex Platinum is known for its extensive travel benefits. The $695 annual fee is waived for service members, and cardholders can enjoy airport lounge access, hotel status upgrades, and a $200 annual airline fee credit.
Chase Sapphire Reserve:
This card offers excellent points for travel and dining, plus a $300 annual travel credit. With the waived annual fee of $550 for military personnel, it's a popular choice amongst the Reddit community.
USAA Cashback Rewards Plus American Express Card:
Designed specifically with military personnel in mind, this card from USAA offers 5% cashback on gas and military base purchases. It has no annual fee and boasts a low APR, making it an attractive option for those who frequent base commissaries or PX stores.
Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) Flagship Rewards Card:
The NFCU Flagship Rewards Card offers 3x points per dollar spent on travel and 2x points on everything else. With no foreign transaction fees and a low APR, it's a great card for those stationed overseas or frequently traveling on duty.
Best Credit Cards For Military Reddit Example:
Suppose you're an active-duty sailor who loves to travel during your time off. You would benefit significantly from having the American Express Platinum Card. With the annual fee waived, you could take advantage of the card's incredible travel perks such as airport lounge access, hotel upgrades, and an annual $200 airline fee credit. As a result, you'd maximize the value of your personal travel adventures while minimizing out-of-pocket expenses.
Similarly, a service member who spends a lot of time on base could make the most of the USAA Cashback Rewards Plus American Express Card. You'd be able to earn 5% cashback on gas and military base purchases, putting money back in your wallet while taking care of those everyday essentials.
And there you have it! We hope this comprehensive guide to the best credit cards for military personnel, inspired by the Reddit community, has helped you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and financial goals. Remember to carefully assess your spending habits and prioritize the features that will bring you the most value. Don't forget to share this article with your fellow service members and explore other helpful guides right here on Flik Eco.
