I would have gone with Discover/Chase Freedom for the 5% categories and then probably AmEx/Chase CSR for travel/hotels. I also probably would get the Citi DC 2% for other spending. Ideally, I'd probably just keep 10 cards or less.
I've always given better advise than what I've followed.
I've had better success at helping other create strong credit positions and failed to follow my own recommendations.
I think most of my good advise has come from my 20/20 hindsight on how I royally screwed up my decisions.
Here is what has worked for others....that I've needed to help.
From a dead start.
Open at a minimum a savings acct at a Credit Union...not a bank. Banks don't lend as much and CU's have more memory and tolerance for good behavior.
Get a secured loan for $1000 and set it up on auto pay to pay equal amounts for 6 months then wait for the statement to cut on the 7th month.
Check FICO to make sure all 3 bureaus now show positive 6 month activity.
At this point...most credit unions will write a loan for a vehicle assuming income to support.
You should also be able to see pre-quals on every site by now. If not work with what you do get.
For cards go Discover>Amex>Chase and stop.
NO blind apps....don't app unless you have a solid and confirmed Pre-Qual
Make sure you have at least 3 cards; preferrably 3 revolvers and one charge card if you feel the need and can get it.
Until you have 3 revolvers you will still be limping on short credit.
use all 3 cards as much as income allows.
Pay in full before the due date then between the due date and before the closing date use and let close 9% usage on every card
Rinse and repeat for another 6 months to a year.
After this I can't think of anything you wouldn't or shouldn't be able to get or get approved for with the right income.
I've done this with 3 people now....and it has put all 3 in bettter positions faster than I ever was in at their age.
It's made their credit stronger than they should have at their income levels and peer level.
Wish I had someone to help hold my hand when I was younger...because it was painful to learn the lessons of experience.
PS..learn the value of an app....don't pull a HP to save $10 at Ulta. Stay away from Store cards....
many youth tend to run to jewelry store cards because they are easy to get with thin profiles ....but the 18months to build a better foundation is worth it and not that long of a time to defer gratification.
