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Rewards Initial Bonus
Explanation:
Some rewards credit cards give new cardholders extra points, miles, or cash back after they make their first purchase or spend above a certain amount within a specified period of time or for some other reason.
Our Thoughts:
There is no rule that prohibits you from opening a credit card just to get its initial bonus and then cancelling it once you've met the conditions of the particular offer and have either received a check or traded your points/miles in for a free hotel night or plan ticket. Taking advantage of a lucrative initial bonus every once in a while is actually a great way to add to your savings or pay down existing debt, provided that you aren't forced to overspend in order to qualify and you aren't planning to take out a loan in the next six months or so. Each time you apply for a credit card, your credit standing takes a temporary hit, which could end up costing you much more than the initial bonus is worth via a worse interest than you'd normally qualify for.