Why Your Credit Report Matters Before You Even Think About Points

 Before you start dreaming of free flights, luxury hotels, and upgrades, let’s hit pause for a reality check: your credit report comes first.


Credit card rewards are amazing, but they’re not for everyone — at least not right away. If your credit score isn’t strong, you may not get approved for the cards that actually make this whole game worth it. And even if you are approved, a weaker credit profile can mean lower limits, higher interest rates, or fewer offers.


That’s why your very first step — before signing up for a single rewards card — should be to pull your credit report and know where you stand. You want to see:


  • A history of on-time payments
  • Low balances compared to your limits
  • A score that’s in the very good range (think 740+ as a general target)


If you’re not there yet, that’s okay! It just means your energy should go into strengthening your credit before diving into points. Once your credit foundation is solid, the doors to the best signup bonuses, premium travel cards, and top-tier perks open wide.


Think of it like building a house: points and miles are the flashy interior design, but your credit report is the foundation. Without it, the rest won’t hold up.


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