By cof2m Is credit card churning worth it in 2025? Learn how churning works, the rewards you can earn, the risks involved, and expert guidance for users in the US, UK, and Canada.
Credit card churning is one of the fastest ways to collect cashback, bonus points, and travel miles. But is it smart or risky in 2025? This guide explains everything you need to know, including region-specific rules for the US, UK, and Canada.
What Is Credit Card Churning
Credit card churning means applying for new cards to earn welcome bonuses, then closing or not using the card once the rewards are received.
Common rewards include:
- Cashback bonuses
- Airline miles
- Hotel points
- Travel credits
Churning can work, but only if you manage it responsibly.
Why People Try Credit Card Churning
Here are the main reasons users churn credit cards:
- Large signup bonuses worth 150 to 500 dollars or more
- Travel perks like flights, hotels, and upgrades
- Cashback rewards for meeting minimum spending limits
- Intro 0 percent APR promotions
- Easy savings for entrepreneurs or frequent spenders
Before applying for multiple cards, check your current range using the Credit Score Estimator:
https://wealthcompare.net/credit-score-estimator/
The Risks of Credit Card Churning
Churning is not for everyone. Here are the key risks:
1. Credit Score Drops
Multiple hard inquiries can temporarily reduce your credit score.
2. Missed Payments
Managing several cards increases the chance of missing a due date.
3. Annual Fees
Some cards have high fees that may cancel out the rewards.
4. Overspending
Trying to hit minimum spend requirements can lead to unnecessary purchases.
5. Account Closures
Banks may close accounts if they detect churning patterns.
To avoid unnecessary fees, check your banking costs with the Bank Fee Optimizer:
https://wealthcompare.net/bank-fee-optimizer/
Credit Card Churning in the US
Churning is most common in the United States because US banks offer some of the biggest signup bonuses in the world.
Popular options:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred
- Capital One Venture Rewards
- American Express Gold Card
Restrictions:
- Chase 5/24 rule: If you opened 5 cards in the last 24 months, you may be denied.
Compare US cards using:
https://wealthcompare.net/compare-credit-cards/
Credit Card Churning in the UK
Churning is less common in the UK because bonuses are usually smaller.
Key points:
- Many cards limit how often you can get bonuses
- Fewer high-value travel cards
- Strict approval rules based on income and credit history
Best UK cards to consider for bonuses:
- American Express Preferred Rewards Gold
- Barclaycard Rewards Visa
- Virgin Atlantic Reward Credit Card
Credit Card Churning in Canada
Canada offers solid reward options, especially for travel.
Popular cards for churning:
- Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite
- TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite
- CIBC Aventura Visa
Important notes:
- Banks may block repeat bonuses
- Some cards require high minimum incomes
Use the Savings Calculator to estimate how much a signup bonus is worth over a year:
https://wealthcompare.net/savings-calculator/
When Churning Makes Sense
Churning is smart if:
- You never miss payments
- You keep utilization low
- You can meet minimum spending without overspending
- You track due dates carefully
- You have a strong credit score
Use the Debt Payoff Visualizer to stay organized if you juggle multiple cards:
https://wealthcompare.net/debt-payoff-visualizer/
When Churning Is a Bad Idea
Avoid churning if:
- Your credit score is below 680
- You struggle with budgeting
- You have existing debt
- You prefer simple, low-maintenance credit habits
Always remember: Rewards are not worth it if they lead to debt.
Safe Churning Strategy (Beginners)
- Choose one high-bonus card
- Meet the minimum spend with normal expenses
- Pay balance in full every month
- Track renewal dates and fees
- Do not apply for too many cards at once
Start by comparing the best cards in your region:
https://wealthcompare.net/compare-credit-cards/
Final Thoughts
Credit card churning can be profitable if done carefully, but it comes with real risks.
For users in the US, UK, and Canada, the key is to stay organized, avoid overspending, and maintain a strong credit profile.
Use WealthCompare tools to support your financial decisions and manage your cards safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is credit card churning illegal?
A: No. It is allowed, but banks may deny bonuses if they detect repeated behavior.
Q2: Does churning hurt my credit score?
A: It can lower your score temporarily due to hard inquiries and new accounts.
Q3: How many cards can I churn safely?
A: Most experts recommend starting with 1 card and never opening more than 2 at a time.