What to know before signing up for a reward card

Site ranks top credit cards by rewards.

The website NerdWallet has published its list for the best credit cards for rewards in 2016.

If you use a credit card you can and should be getting rewards, but experts say there are pitfalls you should be aware of before you sign up for one.

NewsCenter 7's consumer reporter Rachel Murray will have more on this story starting at 5 p.m. on WHIO-TV. Watch live on the WHIO mobile app.

NerdWallet’s Top 10 List:

  • Best for Everyday Spending: Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express
  • Easiest Travel Redemption: Barclaycard Arrival Plus World Elite MasterCard and Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (Tie)
  • Best for Fair Credit: Barclaycard Rewards MasterCard
  • Best Bonus Categories: Chase Freedom
  • Best Business Credit Card: Chase Ink Plus Business Credit Card
  • Best for Travel: Chase Sapphire Preferred
  • Best for Balance Transfers: Chase Slate
  • Best Cash Back: Citi Double Cash Card
  • Longest 0% APR Period: Citi Simplicity Card
  • Best Student Credit Card: Citi ThankYou Preferred Card for College Students

Sally Ermlich, of Miamisburg, said she prefers money-back credit card rewards.

“I think we all like to save and that’s a good way to save,” Ermlich said.

Tim Brandon, education coordinator at Consumer Credit Counseling Services, Graceworks, said for those planning to carry a balance, rewards cards typically have higher interest rates.

“Credit cards can be your best friend or they can be your worst enemy,” Brandon said.

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