What is CardOptimizer?

CardOptimizer is a free eligibility-checking tool designed to help credit card applicants understand which cards they can actually get approved for — before they apply. Unlike generic card comparison sites that only show you offers, CardOptimizer evaluates your profile against real issuer rules like Chase's 5/24 restriction, Amex's lifetime bonus language, and Citi's 48-month cooldown.

Every major credit card issuer has its own set of application velocity limits, product family restrictions, and bonus eligibility windows. Missing even one of these rules can mean a wasted hard inquiry on your credit report or a denied sign-up bonus worth hundreds of dollars.

In this introductory video, you'll see how CardOptimizer works from start to finish: entering your current cards, reviewing your eligibility status across all major issuers, and identifying which sign-up bonuses you're actually eligible to earn right now.

Whether you're new to credit card rewards or an experienced churner looking to optimize your next application, this walkthrough will show you exactly how to use the tool to make smarter decisions.

Key Takeaways

  • CardOptimizer checks real issuer eligibility rules — not just generic card comparisons
  • Avoid wasted hard pulls by knowing your approval odds before you apply
  • See your eligibility status across Chase, Amex, Citi, Capital One, and more

Ready to optimize your card strategy?

Start Optimizing Your Cards

More Videos

How to Set Up Your Profile

Step-by-step walkthrough of the CardOptimizer setup wizard: entering your existing cards, setting preferences, and getting personalized eligibility results.

IHG Premier Business — Lifetime Language Added

Chase added lifetime bonus language to the IHG One Rewards Premier Business card. If you've ever held this card and received the bonus, you're now permanently ineligible for a new one.

Amex Marriott Brilliant 200K / Bevy 175K — All-Time High BUT New Restrictions

Amex Marriott Brilliant hits 200K and Bevy hits 175K — both all-time highs. But new restrictions make eligibility trickier than ever. Here's what you need to know before applying.