@Anonymous wrote:Most cards that will impress people require a lot of income, wealth, and/or spending. For instance, the American Express Centurion (black) card is for those who spend close to half a million a year and the J.P. Morgan Chase Palladium card is for those who have at least a quarter million in Chase Private Client.
As to higher-tier cards from each lender, there's always going to be some debate on that. From what I've seen around here and on other sites, I'd say the Chase Sapphire Preferred, Citi Prestige, American Express Platinum, Ritz-Carlton Rewards, etc. give a lot of perks and bonuses, accompanied by a high annual fee. If you use the perks and rewards offered, they're great cards. But if you don't, then I'd look at cards with no annual fee.
The most important thing is your own utility. From what I've read, if you have credit scores in the mid-700s or better and no or few recent inquiries or new accounts, you can get accepted to pretty much anything. So look around and figure out what you want. For example, I just recently got 2 cards after not applying for anything for 7 or 8 years. I chose the Capital One Quicksilver for its easy rewards structure and sign-up bonus and the Barclay Ring for its low interest rate and community aspect. After further research, I think in a couple years when my credit with these companies is established, I'll also possibly apply for another couple cards from different companies that will provide slightly better rewards and, when combined with my existing cards, will allow me to see all 3 FICO scores for free.
So that's how the cards I chose fit my goals. Once you figure out what you want from your credit, look around and apply for what gives it to you (or comes closest).
There are cards that are invitation only or more difficult to get, but I don't see the prestige. I doubt you will find many people beyond these boards who are impressed by a credit card. Things like the Palladium or centurion black are examples of cards that are difficult to get.
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I'd say Simmons Bank or Iberia Bank (iberia doesnt have the good offers anymore, sigh) though you can do almost as well wtih just a good credit score through a CU with a lot less red tape..
