Holly Johnson

Holly Johnson is a frugality expert and award-winning writer who is obsessed with personal finance and getting the most out of life. A lifelong resident of Indiana, she enjoys gardening, reading, and traveling the world with her husband and… two children. In addition to The Simple Dollar, Holly writes for well-known publications such as U.S. News & World Report Travel, PolicyGenius, Travel Pulse, and Frugal Travel Guy. Holly also owns Club Thrifty.

Latest from Holly Johnson

The 5 best credit cards you can (and should) keep forever

What is the best credit card you can, and should, keep forever? The Chase Freedom Flex℠ is ZDNet's top choice because of its generous cashback rewards and perks, no annual fee, and flexibility of use – ideal for building your credit history and holding on to for many years. Here are our top five picks that you should keep forever.

April 23, 2022 by Holly Johnson in Credit Cards

Which rewards credit cards are best for vacation rentals?

You can cover travel expenses with the right combination of rewards cards -- or at least earn some points to pay for part of your trip.

March 31, 2022 by Holly Johnson in Credit Cards

Kroger Rewards World Elite Mastercard review

This co-branded Mastercard features cashback for purchases made with mobile wallets and Kroger brands.

March 30, 2022 by Holly Johnson in Credit Cards

Can the My GM Rewards Card help you save on a new car?

We break down the card's pros and cons to help you determine if it's is right for you.

March 29, 2022 by Holly Johnson in Credit Cards

5 ways to improve your credit score without a credit card

A good credit score doesn't always come easy, and if you have bad credit, rebuilding can be a lot of effort. Here are our top 5 ways to improve your credit score... without a credit card.

March 28, 2022 by Holly Johnson in Credit Cards

What happens when you cancel a credit card?

There are many reasons you might consider closing an old credit card, but you should be aware of the consequences first.

March 25, 2022 by Holly Johnson in Credit Cards

The best pre-qualified credit cards (and some alternatives)

Getting pre-qualified for a credit card can improve your chances of approval, and here are the top offers for 2022.

March 25, 2022 by Holly Johnson in Credit Cards

Why don't more retailers accept American Express?

We explain how American Express operates, and how you can avoid a letdown at the register.

March 25, 2022 by Holly Johnson in Credit Cards

7 reasons the wealthy use credit cards (even though they don't have to)

Instead of looking for ways to flaunt their wealth, the wealthy keep it hidden. They strive for financial independence and seek out targeted opportunities that credit cards offer.

March 25, 2022 by Holly Johnson in Credit Cards

The best credit card points to redeem for gift cards

Some credit cards actually work better when you're redeeming points for cashback or gift cards. Here are our top picks.

March 24, 2022 by Holly Johnson in Credit Cards

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