Money Management

[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
Americans usually hold onto their vehicles for an average of about eight and half years, and they drive an average of about 14,000 annually. But what about those drivers who want to drive their car until the wheels come off?Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. Thankfully, more than a few great vehicles are ready and willing to go the distance. Recent research from iSeeCars found the most likely vehicles to go 250,000 miles or more, which would equal about 18 years of driving, on average.SUVs took many of the top spots, giving us a glimpse of some of the best options likely to last you (almost) a lifetime.1. Honda PilotHondas are known for being steady and reliable, and the Pilot doesn’t veer off this course, considering it’s twice as likely to reach 250,000 miles as other vehicles.The latest Pilot starts at $40,200, and for that price, you’ll get a 285 horsepower V6 engine, roof rails, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, seven speaker sound system, and heated front seats. The Pilot also has tons of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, collision mitigation braking, and adaptive cruise control. Opt for the TrailSport trim for AWD, an off-road-tuned suspension, and skid plates.Not only is the Pilot a very reliable SUV, but it’s also one of the cheapest vehicles to insure. Click here to find cheap car insurance, no matter which SUV you drive.2. Nearly any Toyota SUVYou can basically close your eyes at the Toyota dealership, spin around a few times, point, and find an SUV with a better-than-average chance of reaching 250,000. Indeed, the Toyota Sequoia, 4Runner, and Highlander Hybrid are three times more likely to hit that milestone than the average vehicle.As its name not-so-subtly suggests, the Sequoia is Toyota’s largest SUV, and you’ll get a 437 horsepower hybrid engine, eight seats, and a towing capacity of 9,520 pounds from the behemoth. The all-new, redesigned 2025 4Runner is an iconic off-roader that’s about to hit dealer lots later this year and will set you back an estimated $43,000, while the tamer but still very capable Highlander Hybrid starts at just under $41,000.3. Chevrolet SuburbanThere may be no better picture of an American people-mover than the larger-than-life Suburban. With seating for up to nine people, you’ll get the kids, their friends, and the grandparents all to the game. And the standard 355 horsepower 5.8-liter V8 will ensure you get there on time.Suburban owners keep their vehicles for more than nine years on average, and iSeeCars says they’re 2.5 times more likely than the average vehicle to reach 250,000 miles.Related: The type of vehicle you drive can greatly impact your car insurance premiums. Go here to see comparisons of the best car insurance companies.4. Lexus GXIt’s no surprise that the GX makes it on this list, as Lexus is the luxury brand of Toyota. The GX was recently redesigned and, while still keeping its iconic boxy styling, looks far more futuristic than its predecessor.The GX’s $64,250 starting price isn’t for the faint of heart, but you get plenty of upgrades for the financial sacrifice, including seating for seven, a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6, full-time 4WD, and 10-speaker premium sound system. Add to all this the fact that the GX is one the most reliable SUVs available with a greater-than-20% chance of reaching 250,000 miles, according to iSeeCars.5. Ford ExpeditionThe three-row Ford Expedition has attracted a loyal following since its late ’90s debut, partly because it’s one and half times more likely to reach a quarter of a million miles than most vehicles.You’ll have to fork over $61,700 for the latest iteration of the SUV. For the sticker shock, you’ll get a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, room for eight, a 13-inch touchscreen, and cargo room for days. You can go even bigger by opting for the Max upgrade, which adds an additional one foot of length and extra cargo space to several of the 2025 models.When buying a new car, factoring in its estimated longevity could be the deciding factor between similarly capable models. Spending more on the upfront cost could save your wallet a lot in the long run by helping you avoid unnecessary pit stops in the repair shop every few months.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Chris Neiger has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Americans usually hold onto their vehicles for an average of about eight and half years, and they drive an average of about 14,000 annually. But what about those drivers who want to drive their car until the wheels come off?

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

Thankfully, more than a few great vehicles are ready and willing to go the distance. Recent research from iSeeCars found the most likely vehicles to go 250,000 miles or more, which would equal about 18 years of driving, on average.

SUVs took many of the top spots, giving us a glimpse of some of the best options likely to last you (almost) a lifetime.

1. Honda Pilot

Hondas are known for being steady and reliable, and the Pilot doesn’t veer off this course, considering it’s twice as likely to reach 250,000 miles as other vehicles.

The latest Pilot starts at $40,200, and for that price, you’ll get a 285 horsepower V6 engine, roof rails, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, seven speaker sound system, and heated front seats. The Pilot also has tons of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, collision mitigation braking, and adaptive cruise control. Opt for the TrailSport trim for AWD, an off-road-tuned suspension, and skid plates.

Not only is the Pilot a very reliable SUV, but it’s also one of the cheapest vehicles to insure. Click here to find cheap car insurance, no matter which SUV you drive.

2. Nearly any Toyota SUV

You can basically close your eyes at the Toyota dealership, spin around a few times, point, and find an SUV with a better-than-average chance of reaching 250,000. Indeed, the Toyota Sequoia, 4Runner, and Highlander Hybrid are three times more likely to hit that milestone than the average vehicle.

As its name not-so-subtly suggests, the Sequoia is Toyota’s largest SUV, and you’ll get a 437 horsepower hybrid engine, eight seats, and a towing capacity of 9,520 pounds from the behemoth. The all-new, redesigned 2025 4Runner is an iconic off-roader that’s about to hit dealer lots later this year and will set you back an estimated $43,000, while the tamer but still very capable Highlander Hybrid starts at just under $41,000.

3. Chevrolet Suburban

There may be no better picture of an American people-mover than the larger-than-life Suburban. With seating for up to nine people, you’ll get the kids, their friends, and the grandparents all to the game. And the standard 355 horsepower 5.8-liter V8 will ensure you get there on time.

Suburban owners keep their vehicles for more than nine years on average, and iSeeCars says they’re 2.5 times more likely than the average vehicle to reach 250,000 miles.

Related: The type of vehicle you drive can greatly impact your car insurance premiums. Go here to see comparisons of the best car insurance companies.

4. Lexus GX

It’s no surprise that the GX makes it on this list, as Lexus is the luxury brand of Toyota. The GX was recently redesigned and, while still keeping its iconic boxy styling, looks far more futuristic than its predecessor.

The GX’s $64,250 starting price isn’t for the faint of heart, but you get plenty of upgrades for the financial sacrifice, including seating for seven, a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6, full-time 4WD, and 10-speaker premium sound system. Add to all this the fact that the GX is one the most reliable SUVs available with a greater-than-20% chance of reaching 250,000 miles, according to iSeeCars.

5. Ford Expedition

The three-row Ford Expedition has attracted a loyal following since its late ’90s debut, partly because it’s one and half times more likely to reach a quarter of a million miles than most vehicles.

You’ll have to fork over $61,700 for the latest iteration of the SUV. For the sticker shock, you’ll get a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, room for eight, a 13-inch touchscreen, and cargo room for days. You can go even bigger by opting for the Max upgrade, which adds an additional one foot of length and extra cargo space to several of the 2025 models.

When buying a new car, factoring in its estimated longevity could be the deciding factor between similarly capable models. Spending more on the upfront cost could save your wallet a lot in the long run by helping you avoid unnecessary pit stops in the repair shop every few months.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Chris Neiger has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
Fall is a great time to shop before the busy holiday season arrives. If you have a Costco membership card in your wallet, you can get some excellent deals right now. Here are a few Costco deals that cost less than $80.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!1. Cascade Complete Dishwasher Detergent ActionPacs for $17.19You can maximize your Costco membership by restocking household cleaning supplies when they’re on sale. Dishwasher detergent pods are convenient, but they can be expensive. The good news is that Costco sells them at more affordable prices than other retailers.Members can buy a 93-count Cascade Complete Dishwasher Detergent ActionPacs container for $17.19. Costco typically sells this item for $21.99, but members can save an extra $4.80 through Nov. 17. That’s around $0.19 per pod. Meanwhile, Target sells a 100-count box for $24.99, or $0.25 per pod. This is a Costco deal worth shopping if you need a restock.2. Life Comfort Sherpa Fleece Blanket for $19.99Now is the time to ensure you have what you need to stay cozy all winter, and this Costco deal can help you prepare before it gets colder. Costco is selling the Life Comfort Sherpa Fleece Blanket for $19.99 through Nov. 17, an additional $5 off the standard price of $24.99. This blanket fits a standard-size queen bed and is available in green, blue, or gray.3. Bench Ladies’ Soft Jersey Active Top for $9.99Fall is the season to dress in layers, and Costco has affordable clothes. Through Nov. 17, members can buy the Bench Ladies’ Soft Jersey Active Top for $9.99. This well-rated top is available in various sizes and colors. This is an online-only deal, and shipping and handling are included. Don’t miss this deal if you need to add more long-sleeved essentials to your closet.Want to save more by earning rewards on your Costco haul? Click here to review our curated list of the top credit cards that offer big rewards on your Costco spending.4. Homedics Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier for $79.99A humidifier can be a great investment for the upcoming winter season. One Costco deal to shop this fall is the Homedics Warm & Cool Mist Ultrasonic 2G Humidifier for $79.99. This humidifier features a two-gallon tank, auto-shutoff capabilities, and five mist settings. Plus, it looks nice, too. This Costco buy can help lessen skin and sinus discomfort during the dry winter months.You can maximize your savings by earning cash back at checkout. It’s easy to get rewarded with a cash back card in your wallet. Explore our list of the best cash back credit cards that earn cash back rewards when you swipe your card.Don’t ignore warehouse club memberships like CostcoNot a Costco member? It’s not too late to join. A warehouse club membership can unlock significant savings. But you must invest in a membership to get the most benefit from shopping at Costco.You’ll pay $65 to $130 annually to be a member. Costco has a 100% satisfaction guarantee on memberships, so you can be confident about becoming a new member. If you’re unsatisfied with your experience, you can cancel and Costco will refund your membership fees.A standard Gold Star membership costs $65. Meanwhile, the premium Executive membership costs $130. The biggest benefit to the costlier membership is the ability to earn 2% rewards on eligible Costco purchases. You can earn up to $1,250 in rewards each membership year.If you want to shop deals that allow you to keep more money in your checking account, consider joining Costco. Every dollar you save thanks to discounts like this adds up.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Fall is a great time to shop before the busy holiday season arrives. If you have a Costco membership card in your wallet, you can get some excellent deals right now. Here are a few Costco deals that cost less than $80.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

1. Cascade Complete Dishwasher Detergent ActionPacs for $17.19

You can maximize your Costco membership by restocking household cleaning supplies when they’re on sale. Dishwasher detergent pods are convenient, but they can be expensive. The good news is that Costco sells them at more affordable prices than other retailers.

Members can buy a 93-count Cascade Complete Dishwasher Detergent ActionPacs container for $17.19. Costco typically sells this item for $21.99, but members can save an extra $4.80 through Nov. 17. That’s around $0.19 per pod. Meanwhile, Target sells a 100-count box for $24.99, or $0.25 per pod. This is a Costco deal worth shopping if you need a restock.

2. Life Comfort Sherpa Fleece Blanket for $19.99

Now is the time to ensure you have what you need to stay cozy all winter, and this Costco deal can help you prepare before it gets colder. Costco is selling the Life Comfort Sherpa Fleece Blanket for $19.99 through Nov. 17, an additional $5 off the standard price of $24.99. This blanket fits a standard-size queen bed and is available in green, blue, or gray.

3. Bench Ladies’ Soft Jersey Active Top for $9.99

Fall is the season to dress in layers, and Costco has affordable clothes. Through Nov. 17, members can buy the Bench Ladies’ Soft Jersey Active Top for $9.99. This well-rated top is available in various sizes and colors. This is an online-only deal, and shipping and handling are included. Don’t miss this deal if you need to add more long-sleeved essentials to your closet.

Want to save more by earning rewards on your Costco haul? Click here to review our curated list of the top credit cards that offer big rewards on your Costco spending.

4. Homedics Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier for $79.99

A humidifier can be a great investment for the upcoming winter season. One Costco deal to shop this fall is the Homedics Warm & Cool Mist Ultrasonic 2G Humidifier for $79.99. This humidifier features a two-gallon tank, auto-shutoff capabilities, and five mist settings. Plus, it looks nice, too. This Costco buy can help lessen skin and sinus discomfort during the dry winter months.

You can maximize your savings by earning cash back at checkout. It’s easy to get rewarded with a cash back card in your wallet. Explore our list of the best cash back credit cards that earn cash back rewards when you swipe your card.

Don’t ignore warehouse club memberships like Costco

Not a Costco member? It’s not too late to join. A warehouse club membership can unlock significant savings. But you must invest in a membership to get the most benefit from shopping at Costco.

You’ll pay $65 to $130 annually to be a member. Costco has a 100% satisfaction guarantee on memberships, so you can be confident about becoming a new member. If you’re unsatisfied with your experience, you can cancel and Costco will refund your membership fees.

A standard Gold Star membership costs $65. Meanwhile, the premium Executive membership costs $130. The biggest benefit to the costlier membership is the ability to earn 2% rewards on eligible Costco purchases. You can earn up to $1,250 in rewards each membership year.

If you want to shop deals that allow you to keep more money in your checking account, consider joining Costco. Every dollar you save thanks to discounts like this adds up.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool/Upsplash
The personal finance world (including yours truly) held its collective breath on Sept. 18 as we waited for the verdict from the Federal Reserve. We knew we’d get some kind of benchmark interest rate cut, but we weren’t sure how much it would be.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. And as it turned out, the Fed opted to drop its rate by half a percentage point — and since rates on consumer bank accounts tend to follow suit, rates on certificates of deposit (CDs), savings, and money market accounts (MMAs) have followed suit.Money market accounts might not be on your radar, but if you’re interested in the perks of both checking and savings accounts, MMAs are sort of like a hybrid of the two. Here’s a closer look at these accounts — and why you should consider them for your hard-earned cash.1. High APYsThe historically high rates on bank accounts we’ve seen over the last few years are on their way out — but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t stay on the high-APY gravy train for as long as we can. Thankfully, money market accounts offered by online banks pay rates many times higher than the current national average, which is just 0.61%.With that rate, you’d earn just $61 on a $10,000 balance over a year. But what if you instead picked one of the best money market accounts and earned a rate of 4.00% on your money? After a year, you’d have an extra $408.Have I piqued your interest? Click here for the best money market accounts we’ve found.It’s important to note that based on the way interest rates are trending now (namely, downward), it’s unlikely you’ll get that same high APY for another year at this point.That said, you’re extremely likely to beat the national average rate (which includes big banks that pay a measly 0.01% on savings products) with an MMA at an online bank, even after future Fed rate cuts. These higher APYs are what MMAs have in common with high-yield savings accounts.2. Easy spending accessMMAs resemble checking accounts in the money access they offer. Many money market accounts come with a linked debit card, meaning you can make purchases directly from the account. Some also offer check-writing privileges (paper checks don’t have the safety features of credit cards or even debit cards, but they’re still handy in some situations).Either option means one-step access to your cash — you won’t need to transfer it to another account, like you might with an online savings account. Just be careful not to make too many withdrawals. Checking accounts don’t limit your transactions, but MMAs might. One of these accounts likely isn’t a good choice to entirely replace your checking account.What should you look for in an MMA?Have I convinced you that money market accounts are worth a closer look? Hooray! Before you open one, make sure you look for these features.FDIC insuranceThis one is paramount. Reputable banks are members of the FDIC, which means your money with these banks is protected for up to $250,000 per depositor, per ownership category. Don’t do business with a bank that lacks this. You can find FDIC documentation on the bank’s website if you’re unsure.A minimum deposit requirement you can meetThis is less common now, but in the past, some MMAs had minimum opening deposit requirements of several thousand dollars, which is likely out of reach for a lot of potential account holders. You may still have to pony up some dough to open the account, though.Minimal (or ideally no) feesThe best MMAs keep fees to a minimum. Don’t open one with a bank that charges monthly maintenance fees — why pay money to keep your money in the bank?A well-rated mobile appSince the best MMAs are offered by online banks, you’re likely to enjoy an excellent mobile app with features like peer-to-peer money transfers, budgeting tools, free credit score updates, and more. Check reviews of the mobile app for any bank you’re considering to see what other customers think.All in all, money market accounts can be pretty convenient and lucrative. Keep them in mind if you need a new home for your money — even now that rates have begun to fall.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

The personal finance world (including yours truly) held its collective breath on Sept. 18 as we waited for the verdict from the Federal Reserve. We knew we’d get some kind of benchmark interest rate cut, but we weren’t sure how much it would be.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

And as it turned out, the Fed opted to drop its rate by half a percentage point — and since rates on consumer bank accounts tend to follow suit, rates on certificates of deposit (CDs), savings, and money market accounts (MMAs) have followed suit.

Money market accounts might not be on your radar, but if you’re interested in the perks of both checking and savings accounts, MMAs are sort of like a hybrid of the two. Here’s a closer look at these accounts — and why you should consider them for your hard-earned cash.

1. High APYs

The historically high rates on bank accounts we’ve seen over the last few years are on their way out — but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t stay on the high-APY gravy train for as long as we can. Thankfully, money market accounts offered by online banks pay rates many times higher than the current national average, which is just 0.61%.

With that rate, you’d earn just $61 on a $10,000 balance over a year. But what if you instead picked one of the best money market accounts and earned a rate of 4.00% on your money? After a year, you’d have an extra $408.

Have I piqued your interest? Click here for the best money market accounts we’ve found.

It’s important to note that based on the way interest rates are trending now (namely, downward), it’s unlikely you’ll get that same high APY for another year at this point.

That said, you’re extremely likely to beat the national average rate (which includes big banks that pay a measly 0.01% on savings products) with an MMA at an online bank, even after future Fed rate cuts. These higher APYs are what MMAs have in common with high-yield savings accounts.

2. Easy spending access

MMAs resemble checking accounts in the money access they offer. Many money market accounts come with a linked debit card, meaning you can make purchases directly from the account. Some also offer check-writing privileges (paper checks don’t have the safety features of credit cards or even debit cards, but they’re still handy in some situations).

Either option means one-step access to your cash — you won’t need to transfer it to another account, like you might with an online savings account. Just be careful not to make too many withdrawals. Checking accounts don’t limit your transactions, but MMAs might. One of these accounts likely isn’t a good choice to entirely replace your checking account.

What should you look for in an MMA?

Have I convinced you that money market accounts are worth a closer look? Hooray! Before you open one, make sure you look for these features.

FDIC insurance

This one is paramount. Reputable banks are members of the FDIC, which means your money with these banks is protected for up to $250,000 per depositor, per ownership category. Don’t do business with a bank that lacks this. You can find FDIC documentation on the bank’s website if you’re unsure.

A minimum deposit requirement you can meet

This is less common now, but in the past, some MMAs had minimum opening deposit requirements of several thousand dollars, which is likely out of reach for a lot of potential account holders. You may still have to pony up some dough to open the account, though.

Minimal (or ideally no) fees

The best MMAs keep fees to a minimum. Don’t open one with a bank that charges monthly maintenance fees — why pay money to keep your money in the bank?

A well-rated mobile app

Since the best MMAs are offered by online banks, you’re likely to enjoy an excellent mobile app with features like peer-to-peer money transfers, budgeting tools, free credit score updates, and more. Check reviews of the mobile app for any bank you’re considering to see what other customers think.

All in all, money market accounts can be pretty convenient and lucrative. Keep them in mind if you need a new home for your money — even now that rates have begun to fall.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Rejection hurts, but it’s part of life. In some cases, it might be quite obvious why you didn’t get approved for one of the best credit cards. Since most of them are targeted toward consumers with credit scores of 670 or above, if your credit score is noticeably below that number, you might be wasting your time applying.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. But what if you’ve got good or excellent credit? Unfortunately, you can be denied a new credit card, too. Here are a few reasons a card issuer could say no, even if the problem isn’t your credit score.Here’s why you didn’t get approved — even with great creditA lot of reasons credit card issuers turn down applicants are related to credit scores. For example, if you have a history of delinquent credit card accounts or your balances on existing cards are too high, that will likely be reflected in your credit score.But let’s say neither of those is true for you, and your credit score is in fact quite good — over 800, perhaps. One of these factors could be the reason for your denial.Too many credit inquiriesI understand being enthusiastic about opening new credit cards — I work with a bunch of credit card nerds, and since I started this gig, I’ve also been known to get excited about maximizing credit card rewards and benefits. But applying for multiple cards in short order can be a quick trip to getting denied for additional ones.Every time you apply for credit, a lender performs a hard credit inquiry, which appears on your credit report and will result in a few points lost from your credit score. And constantly opening new credit cards could look like “churning” behavior — this is when you open credit cards, spend enough to get the sign-up bonus, then stop using the card.Ideally, credit card issuers want customers who will use their products over the long term. If you have more credit cards than fingers (and possibly toes), it might not look as if you’ll be willing to do that.Looking for a new credit card to help you save money for years to come? Check out our favorite cards for gas and groceries and enjoy cash back or rewards on two common household expenses.No existing relationshipSome card issuers really like it when you already have a banking or loan relationship with them. This makes sense — the issuer will already be familiar with you as a customer and has an idea of whether you have the income to support the card or can be relied upon to pay back your debt.Violating a rule specific to the issuerIt’s a good idea to do a little research before applying with a new card issuer because some of them have idiosyncratic rules. One famous example is the Chase 5/24 rule, which states that if you’ve applied for five or more cards in the last 24 months, you’ll be automatically denied if you apply for another with Chase.Incorrectly filled-out applicationFinally, perhaps you were denied for your basic humanity — and by that I mean, to err is human. Maybe you accidentally transposed two numbers in your Social Security number, or filled in the wrong address, or even undershot your annual income by a digit. It happens — and it could result in an application denial.What can you do to get approved?You do have some recourse if a factor other than your credit score is the reason you were denied for a credit card. (If your credit score was the reason, focus on raising it.) You’ll receive documentation in the mail within a few business days explaining why you were denied.You can call the credit card company and ask to speak to a representative to be reconsidered. Be polite and friendly, and explain why you were excited about the card and would be a good card holder.If you suspect you made a mistake filling out the form, you can try again — but this might be another time it’s better to call and speak to a human to be sure. If you’re a brand-new customer to the card issuer, you might consider opening a bank account and trying for the card again. But honestly, it’s probably silly to open a bank account you don’t need just to get a credit card.Finally, if your denial was due to having opened too many cards recently, you’ll need to exercise patience. Aim to apply for a new credit card every six months to a year. In the meantime, focus on paying your existing cards on time and maintaining low (or $0) balances to keep your credit score in good shape for the next time you apply.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends JPMorgan Chase and Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Rejection hurts, but it’s part of life. In some cases, it might be quite obvious why you didn’t get approved for one of the best credit cards. Since most of them are targeted toward consumers with credit scores of 670 or above, if your credit score is noticeably below that number, you might be wasting your time applying.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

But what if you’ve got good or excellent credit? Unfortunately, you can be denied a new credit card, too. Here are a few reasons a card issuer could say no, even if the problem isn’t your credit score.

Here’s why you didn’t get approved — even with great credit

A lot of reasons credit card issuers turn down applicants are related to credit scores. For example, if you have a history of delinquent credit card accounts or your balances on existing cards are too high, that will likely be reflected in your credit score.

But let’s say neither of those is true for you, and your credit score is in fact quite good — over 800, perhaps. One of these factors could be the reason for your denial.

Too many credit inquiries

I understand being enthusiastic about opening new credit cards — I work with a bunch of credit card nerds, and since I started this gig, I’ve also been known to get excited about maximizing credit card rewards and benefits. But applying for multiple cards in short order can be a quick trip to getting denied for additional ones.

Every time you apply for credit, a lender performs a hard credit inquiry, which appears on your credit report and will result in a few points lost from your credit score. And constantly opening new credit cards could look like “churning” behavior — this is when you open credit cards, spend enough to get the sign-up bonus, then stop using the card.

Ideally, credit card issuers want customers who will use their products over the long term. If you have more credit cards than fingers (and possibly toes), it might not look as if you’ll be willing to do that.

Looking for a new credit card to help you save money for years to come? Check out our favorite cards for gas and groceries and enjoy cash back or rewards on two common household expenses.

No existing relationship

Some card issuers really like it when you already have a banking or loan relationship with them. This makes sense — the issuer will already be familiar with you as a customer and has an idea of whether you have the income to support the card or can be relied upon to pay back your debt.

Violating a rule specific to the issuer

It’s a good idea to do a little research before applying with a new card issuer because some of them have idiosyncratic rules. One famous example is the Chase 5/24 rule, which states that if you’ve applied for five or more cards in the last 24 months, you’ll be automatically denied if you apply for another with Chase.

Incorrectly filled-out application

Finally, perhaps you were denied for your basic humanity — and by that I mean, to err is human. Maybe you accidentally transposed two numbers in your Social Security number, or filled in the wrong address, or even undershot your annual income by a digit. It happens — and it could result in an application denial.

What can you do to get approved?

You do have some recourse if a factor other than your credit score is the reason you were denied for a credit card. (If your credit score was the reason, focus on raising it.) You’ll receive documentation in the mail within a few business days explaining why you were denied.

You can call the credit card company and ask to speak to a representative to be reconsidered. Be polite and friendly, and explain why you were excited about the card and would be a good card holder.

If you suspect you made a mistake filling out the form, you can try again — but this might be another time it’s better to call and speak to a human to be sure. If you’re a brand-new customer to the card issuer, you might consider opening a bank account and trying for the card again. But honestly, it’s probably silly to open a bank account you don’t need just to get a credit card.

Finally, if your denial was due to having opened too many cards recently, you’ll need to exercise patience. Aim to apply for a new credit card every six months to a year. In the meantime, focus on paying your existing cards on time and maintaining low (or $0) balances to keep your credit score in good shape for the next time you apply.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends JPMorgan Chase and Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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