There are a lot of different cards with different incentives. Shopping at REI? Use the REI credit card for 5% cash back. Groceries? Use this different card for

There are a lot of different cards with different incentives. Shopping at REI? Use the REI credit card for 5% cash back. Groceries? Use this different card for 6% back. There are advantages to the stores providing the card (data, CC fees, brand loyalty) and very easy for shoppers to apply while in the store. Additionally, to get a good credit score, you need a high amount of available credit and long lived accounts. There aren't many disadvantages to having multiple accounts assuming you are able to manage your spending.