BWMarketplace exists to help readers make better financial decisions. Our editorial team operates independently of the partnerships that fund the Site. This page explains the standards we hold ourselves to.
Independence
- Editorial staff have no visibility into commercial negotiations or commission rates.
- Compensation never influences a product's star rating, "BW Score," or written review.
- Compensation may influence the order of some lists. When it does, the page is labeled "Sponsored ordering."
- We review and include leading products from issuers we are not compensated by when those products are competitive.
How we rate products
Every product is scored on a 5-point "BW Score" using a category-specific rubric. Weights are published below and applied identically across competitors.
Credit cards (rubric)
- Rewards value (30%) — earning rates vs. average spend categories.
- Welcome offer (15%) — value vs. minimum spend, time-to-earn.
- Fees (20%) — annual fee, foreign transaction, late, balance transfer.
- APR & terms (10%) — purchase APR, intro periods, penalty APR.
- Benefits & protections (15%) — travel insurance, purchase protection, lounge access.
- User experience (10%) — app quality, customer service ratings, redemption flexibility.
Banking, loans, investing, insurance, mortgages
Each category has its own published rubric tuned to what matters in that category (e.g., APY and fee structure for savings; APR and origination fees for loans; commissions and account minimums for investing).
Sources of data
- Issuer and provider websites, terms-and-conditions documents, and rate sheets.
- Federal data (CFPB, FDIC, NCUA, Federal Reserve).
- Direct conversations with provider representatives.
- Hands-on account testing where feasible.
Update cadence
Rates and fees are reviewed at least monthly, and after any major issuer announcement. Each review page displays a "Last updated" date. Material changes trigger a re-score.
Corrections policy
We correct material errors promptly and visibly. If you spot one, email editorial@bwmarketplace.com. Significant corrections include a dated note at the bottom of the affected page.
Author and reviewer expertise
Articles are written by financial writers and reviewed by experienced professionals. Our affiliated practice BeWealth EAprovides licensed Enrolled Agent review of tax-related content, and Be Wealthprovides licensed advisor review of retirement and insurance content.
Conflict of interest
Where a product is offered by a BWMarketplace-affiliated entity, we disclose the relationship clearly in the review and exclude that product from "best of" rankings.
Reader trust
If we ever fall short of these standards, please tell us at editorial@bwmarketplace.com. We take every report seriously.