Last updated: May 7, 2026

The short version

Best Credit Card Comparison may earn commissions when readers apply for credit cards through some of the links on this site. Those commissions don't influence which cards we recommend, what we say about them, or how we rank them.

How affiliate relationships work

Many credit card issuers run affiliate programs where they pay third-party sites a flat fee or percentage when a reader applies for and is approved for a card using a tracked link. Standard payouts in this industry range from roughly $50 to $200 per approved application, depending on the card.

We are working toward partnerships with major affiliate networks in the credit card space, including but not limited to CardRatings, FlexOffers, and similar providers. As of the date above, our affiliate relationships may be limited or still in development. When this changes, this page will be updated.

Our editorial independence

Our recommendations are based on the criteria laid out in our editorial approach: real-world rewards math, total cost analysis, honest fit assessment, and sign-up bonus reality checks. The card issuer's commission rate is not part of our evaluation criteria.

This means:

  • We may recommend a card that pays us less because it's a better fit.
  • We criticize cards that pay us well when they have legitimate downsides.
  • We mention cards with no affiliate relationship at all when they're the right answer.
  • We tell readers when applying directly through the issuer's site (not through us) is the better move — for example, if a sign-up bonus is higher there.

How to know if a link is an affiliate link

Links to credit card application pages on this site may be affiliate links. Links to news articles, government resources, third-party tools, and the issuer's general homepage are typically not affiliate links.

If you'd prefer not to use our affiliate links for any reason, you can always go directly to the issuer's website and apply through their main URL. The card terms you receive will be identical either way.

What this site is not

This site does not represent any specific credit card issuer or financial institution. We are not employees, agents, or representatives of any bank or credit card company. Our content is editorial commentary based on publicly available information about credit card products.

FTC compliance

This disclosure is provided in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials .

Questions?

Questions about our affiliate practices or any specific recommendation? Reach us at [email protected].