CoinTalk

Atlas Credit Card Review: Better Than Secured Credit Cards?

What Is the Atlas Credit Card?

The Atlas Credit Card, issued by Patriot Bank in partnership with Mastercard, is marketed as a credit-building tool designed for people with limited or poor credit history. Unlike traditional credit cards that often require high credit scores, the Atlas CC boasts a 95% approval rate, making it accessible to a wide range of users, including young professionals, students, or those recovering from financial setbacks. With a 0% APR and a rewards program offering up to 10% cash back on eligible purchases, it sounds like a dream come true.

Why Choose the Atlas Credit Card? Key Features and Benefits

The Atlas Credit Card is designed to address common pain points for those looking to improve their credit score while earning rewards. Here’s a breakdown of its standout features:

• High Approval Rates: With a reported 95% approval rate, the Atlas CC is accessible to almost anyone who verifies their identity and links a bank account. No credit check or minimum income is required, making it ideal for those with limited credit history.
• Credit Building: The card reports to all three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—helping users build credit with on-time payments. Atlas claims an average 50-point credit score increase in the first year for responsible users.
• 0% APR: Unlike many credit cards that charge high interest rates, the Atlas CC has no interest charges, which is a huge relief for those avoiding debt.
• Rewards Program: Earn 3% to 10% cash back on eligible purchases like gas, dining, subscriptions, and shopping at over 50,000 stores. Rare “lucky swipes” can even offer up to 100% cash back.
• Additional Perks: Includes cell phone protection, extended warranty coverage, rental car insurance, and bill negotiation services for utilities and subscriptions.
• User-Friendly App: The Atlas app allows you to track spending, monitor your credit score, and manage payments with ease.

Image Idea: A screenshot of the Atlas app interface showing credit score tracking or cash back offers to visually engage readers.

The Catch: Membership Fees and Other Costs

While the Atlas Credit Card sounds like a fantastic deal, it’s not without costs. The card charges a membership fee of $8.99 every four weeks (approximately $116/year) or $89/year

if you opt for the annual plan. This fee is significantly higher than the average credit card annual fee of $23.75, which might raise eyebrows for budget-conscious users.

Additionally, some users have reported issues with the Smart Pay feature, which automatically deducts payments from your linked bank account. While this ensures you never miss a payment, it can feel restrictive, and some claim it’s difficult to turn off.

If you’re considering the Atlas CC, weigh these costs against the rewards and credit-building potential to see if it aligns with your financial goals.

Is the Atlas Credit Card Legit? Addressing Your Concerns

One of the most common questions about the Atlas Credit Card is, “Is Atlas legit?” Let’s address this head-on with evidence from user reviews and industry insights:

• Issuer Reputation: The Atlas Card is issued by Patriot Bank, a reputable financial institution regulated by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and state banking authorities. This adds a layer of trustworthiness and consumer protection.
• Security Features: The card offers robust fraud protection, including real-time transaction notifications and the ability to lock your card instantly via the app.
• User Reviews: On platforms like Trustpilot and the App Store, the Atlas Credit Card has received high praise, with an average rating of 4.77/5 from over 2,000 reviews. Users love the app’s ease of use and the credit score boosts (some report increases of 55 to 100 points). However, there are complaints about poor customer service and unexpected account closures, which we’ll explore later.

Image Idea: A comparison chart showing Atlas Credit Card’s approval rates and fees versus competitors like secured credit cards or other credit-building options.

Atlas Credit Card Reviews: What Real Users Are Saying

To give you a balanced perspective, let’s look at what users are saying in Atlas Credit Card reviews and Atlas Mastercard reviews across various platforms:

The Good

• Credit Score Improvements: Many users report significant credit score increases, with some seeing 20 to 100 points within weeks or months.
• Easy to Use: The Atlas app is frequently praised for its intuitive design, making it simple to track spending and monitor credit progress.
• Rewards Value: Users appreciate the cash back offers, especially for everyday purchases like gas, dining, and subscriptions.
• Accessible Approval: People with bad or no credit history value the high approval rates and lack of credit checks.

Quote from a User: Atlas helped my credit score go up by 55 points! Very easy and great customer service!!” – Christopher, Trustpilot

The Bad

• Customer Service Issues: Some users complain about slow or unresponsive customer service, with wait times of 2-3 days for email responses and no live phone support.
• Unexpected Charges: A few users reported unauthorized charges or difficulty canceling their accounts, with one claiming Atlas sent a $13 debt to collections after cancellation.
• Account Closures: There are reports of accounts being closed without clear explanations, causing frustration and delays in accessing funds.

Quote from a User: “DO NOT GET ATLAS CREDIT CARD IT’S A SCAM. They charged me $10 twice, but my account doesn’t exist on the app. Customer service is awful!” – Anonymous, WalletHub

Is the Atlas Mastercard Worth It? Pros and Cons

To help you make a final decision, here’s a quick summary of the Atlas Credit Card’s pros and cons:

Pros

• Builds Credit Fast: Reports to all three credit bureaus, with an average 50-point score increase in the first year.
• No Interest Charges: 0% APR means you won’t rack up debt from interest.
• Generous Rewards: Up to 10% cash back on everyday purchases and unique perks like bill negotiation.
• High Approval Rates: Ideal for those with poor or no credit history.

Cons

• High Membership Fee: $8.99 every four weeks or $89/year is steep compared to other credit-building cards with no annual fees.
• Customer Service Complaints: Limited support options and slow response times.
• Smart Pay Restrictions: Automatic payments can feel restrictive, and some users report issues turning it off.

Who Should Get the Atlas Credit Card? The Atlas Credit Card is best suited for:

• Credit Builders: Individuals with limited or poor credit who want to improve their credit score without risking high interest debt.
• Reward Seekers on a Budget: Those who spend frequently on gas, dining, or subscriptions and want to earn cash back.
• Tech-Savvy Users: People comfortable managing their finances through a mobile app.

However, it may not be ideal for:

• Fee-Averse Consumers: If you’re looking for a no-fee credit card, secured cards or other unsecured options might be better.
• High Spenders: The card’s low initial credit limits may not suit those with significant spending needs.
• Customer Service Prioritizers: If you value quick, live support, the Atlas CC’s limited customer service could be a dealbreaker.

Alternatives to the Atlas Credit Card

If the Atlas CC doesn’t feel like the right fit, consider these alternatives:

• Secured Credit Cards: Require a deposit but often have lower or no annual fees (e.g., Discover it® Secured Credit Card).
• Chime Credit Builder: A no-fee option that works similarly to Atlas but requires a Chime checking account.
• Capital One Platinum: An unsecured card for those with fair credit, with no annual fee but higher APR.

Image Idea: A table comparing the Atlas Credit Card with alternatives like Chime and Capital One, highlighting fees, rewards, and credit-building potential.

Final thought : Should You Apply for the Atlas Credit Card?

The Atlas Credit Card is a legitimate option for credit building, backed by Patriot Bank and offering robust features like 0% APR, high approval rates, and attractive rewards. However, its high membership fee and mixed customer service reviews are notable drawbacks. If you’re in the U.S., have limited credit, and are willing to pay for the convenience of a user-friendly app and cash back rewards, the Atlas CC could be a game-changer. But if you’re wary of fees or need reliable customer support, explore other credit-building cards first.

Understanding the Balance Sheet: A Beginner’s Guide with Examples

What is a Balance Sheet? A Simple Explanation with Examples

A balance sheet is a snapshot of a company’s financial position at a specific point in time. It shows what a business owns (assets), what it owes (liabilities), and the owner’s equity.

Think of it as a financial report card that helps you answer the question, “What is a balance sheet example?” For small business owners, freelancers, or even individuals managing personal finances, understanding this document is key to making smart commercial decisions, like securing a loan or planning for growth.

This formula ensures your balance sheet always balances, but how to balance a balance sheet with example? Let’s explore that next with a practical example tailored to real-world scenarios.

Why You Need a Balance Sheet Example

Whether you’re running a small café in London or an e-commerce store in New York, a balance sheet helps you:

• Track Financial Health: Understand your business’s stability and liquidity.
• Attract Investors: Show potential investors or lenders a clear picture of your finances.
• Make Informed Decisions: Decide whether to expand, cut costs, or invest in new opportunities.

Without a clear example of a balance sheet, you might miss critical insights, leading to costly mistakes. Let’s look at a classified balance sheet example to see how it works in practice.

Classified Balance Sheet Example: A Real-World Scenario

A classified balance sheet example organizes assets and liabilities into categories, making it easier to read and analyze. Imagine you own a small bakery in Canada, and you’re preparing a balance sheet as of December 31, 2025, in Canadian dollars (CAD).

How to Prepare a Balance Sheet Example: Step-by-Step Guide

Wondering how to write a balance sheet example? Follow these steps to create one for your business, whether you’re in the U.S., UK, or anywhere else:

1- Gather Financial Data

Collect records of your assets (cash, inventory, property), liabilities (loans, accounts payable), and equity (owner’s investment, retained earnings). Use accounting software like QuickBooks or Excel for accuracy.

2- Categorize Assets

Split assets into current (e.g., cash, accounts receivable) and non-current (e.g., equipment, buildings). This creates a classified balance sheet example that’s easy to read.

3- List Liabilities

Separate current liabilities (due within a year, like accounts payable) from long-term liabilities (e.g., mortgages). Curious about which of the following is an example of a liability listed on a balance sheet? Common examples include loans, accounts payable, and accrued expenses.

4- Calculate Equity

Equity is what’s left after subtracting liabilities from assets. Include owner’s capital and retained earnings.

5- Balance the Sheet

Ensure Assets = Liabilities + Equity. If it doesn’t balance, double-check your numbers for errors.

6- Format for Clarity

Use a clean layout with subheadings, like the example of a balance sheet above, to make it professional and digestible.

Common Questions About Balance Sheets

How to Balance a Balance Sheet with Example?

Balancing a balance sheet means ensuring the total assets equal the sum of liabilities and equity. In our bakery example, if you add a new $5,000 loan (liability), you must also record the cash received (asset) to keep the equation balanced.

What is a Balance Sheet Example Used For?

It’s used to assess financial health, secure funding, or plan for growth. For instance, a lender in Australia might review your balance sheet in AUD to decide if you qualify for a loan.

Which of the Following is an Example of a Liability Listed on a Balance Sheet?

Liabilities include:

Accounts payable (money owed to suppliers)  , loans (short-term or long-term) ,  accrued expenses (e.g., unpaid wages) and Mortgages

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating a Balance Sheet

Even seasoned entrepreneurs make errors. Here are pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Mixing Personal and Business Finances: Keep them separate to avoid confusion.
2. Incorrect Categorization: Don’t list a long-term loan as a current liability.
3. Ignoring Small Items: Even minor assets or liabilities, like unpaid utility bills, must be included.
4. Not Updating Regularly: A balance sheet is a snapshot, so update it monthly or quarterly for accuracy.

By following our how to prepare a balance sheet example guide, you’ll avoid these mistakes and create a reliable financial document.

Why a Balance Sheet Example is Crucial for Your Business

A well-crafted balance sheet isn’t just a formality—it’s a tool for success. Here’s why:

• Informed Decision-Making: Understand whether you can afford to invest in new equipment or hire staff.
• Loan Approvals: Banks in the U.S., UK, or India often require a balance sheet to evaluate loan applications.
• Investor Confidence: A clear example of a balance sheet shows investors you’re serious about financial management.

For example, a freelancer in the UK managing GBP might use a balance sheet to decide whether to upgrade their home office, while a retailer in India might use it to plan inventory purchases in INR.

Visualizing Your Balance Sheet: Tips for Engagement

To make your balance sheet more engaging:

• Use Charts: Create a pie chart showing the proportion of assets, liabilities, and equity.
• Include Images: Add a sample balance sheet image (like the one above) to visually explain the concept.
• Simplify for Beginners: Use plain language to explain terms like  accounts receivable  or  retained earnings.

Note: If you’d like me to generate a visual chart for your balance sheet, please confirm, and I can create one for you!

Take Action: Create Your Own Balance Sheet Today

Ready to master your finances? Use the classified balance sheet example above as a template and follow these steps:

1. Download a free balance sheet template online or use accounting software.
2. Input your financial data, ensuring accuracy in your currency (USD, GBP, INR, etc.).
3. Double-check that your assets equal liabilities plus equity.
4. Review your balance sheet monthly to stay on top of your financial health.

By understanding how to write a balance sheet example, you’re empowering yourself to make smarter commercial decisions, whether you’re seeking a loan or planning expansion.

Conclusion: Unlock Financial Success with Balance Sheet Examples

A balance sheet is more than just numbers—it’s a roadmap to financial clarity. Whether you’re exploring what is a balance sheet example or learning how to balance a balance sheet with example, this guide has you covered.

Use our example of a balance sheet to create your own, avoid common mistakes, and take control of your business’s future. Ready to dive deeper?

How Much Does a POS System Cost? A Complete Breakdown for Small and Large Businesses

Why POS System Costs Matter for Your Business

A point of sale (POS) system is the heartbeat of your business transactions, streamlining payments, inventory, and customer management. But let’s face it—POS costs can be confusing, with prices ranging from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands depending on your needs. Whether you’re in the U.S., UK, Canada, or Australia, understanding the average cost of a point of sale system helps you budget wisely and avoid overpaying for features you don’t need.

The cost of a POS system depends on factors like hardware, software, business size, and industry. For instance, a food truck in California might need a mobile POS with minimal upfront costs, while a multi-location retail chain in London may require a robust system with advanced analytics. By addressing these pain points, we’ll help you answer the burning question: How much is a POS system?

Breaking Down the Average Cost of a Point of Sale System

To give you a clear picture, let’s explore the POS system cost components. These typically fall into three categories: hardware, software, and additional fees. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Hardware Costs: The Foundation of Your POS

Hardware includes physical devices like terminals, card readers, barcode scanners, and receipt printers. Costs vary based on whether you opt for a basic setup or a high-end system.

1- Basic Mobile POS: $50–$500 (e.g., a tablet-based system like Square or Shopify POS for small businesses).

2- Traditional POS Terminals: $500–$2,000 per terminal for retail or restaurant setups.

3- High-End Systems: $2,000–$5,000+ for advanced setups with multiple stations or specialized hardware (e.g., self-service kiosks

2. Software Costs: The Brains Behind the Operation

POS software can be subscription-based (cloud) or one-time purchases (on-premise). Here’s what to expect:

1- Cloud-Based Software: $20–$150/month per terminal (e.g., Square, Lightspeed, or Toast). Ideal for small businesses or startups.

2- On-Premise Software: $1,000–$5,000 upfront, plus maintenance fees. Better for large enterprises with complex needs.

What Are Stakeholders? Definition, Types, and Examples

Crypto Fear and Greed Index: A Trader's Guide

As a trader, your biggest enemy isn't a market crash or a sudden price spike. It's the person staring back at you in the mirror. It's the two powerful emotions that drive almost every bad decision: Fear and Greed.

Are you buying when everyone is euphoric and prices are at their peak? That's Greed. Are you panic-selling your assets during a market dip along with the rest of the crowd? That's Fear.

But what if you had a tool that could measure these emotions across the entire market? That's exactly what the Crypto Fear and Greed Index is for. Let's dive into how you can use it to your advantage.

What is the Fear and Greed Index?

The Fear and Greed Index is a market sentiment tool that measures the overall emotional state of the cryptocurrency market. It compiles data from various sources to generate a single number, from 0 to 100.

• 0-24: The market is in Fear (a score below 25 indicates Extreme Fear).
• 76-100: The market is Neutral.51-100: The market is in Greed (a score above 75 indicates Extreme Greed).

Its purpose is to give you a snapshot of whether the market is acting irrationally fearful or overly bullish.

How Does It Work? The Data Behind the Score

The index isn't just a guess; it's a weighted average of several key data points, including:

• Market Volatility: High volatility is a sign of a fearful market.
• Trading Volume: Unusually high buying volume is a sign of a greedy market.
• Social Media Sentiment: Analyzing keywords and engagement on platforms like X (Twitter).
• Market Dominance: A rising Bitcoin dominance can signal fear, as people exit riskier altcoins.
• Google Trends Data: Analyzing search volumes for crypto-related terms.

How to Use the Index: A Contrarian Trader's Mindset

This is the most important part. The index is not a simple "buy" or "sell" signal. It's a tool for contrarian thinking, famously summarized by Warren Buffett: "Be fearful when others are greedy, and greedy when others are fearful."

Here's how to interpret the readings:

• Extreme Fear (0-24): This can be a powerful buying indicator. It suggests that investors are overly worried and that assets may be oversold. It's a sign that the market is presenting a potential opportunity for those who are brave enough to buy when there's "blood in the streets."
• Fear (25-49): The market is nervous. This can be a good time to start accumulating positions slowly (dollar-cost averaging) if your own research aligns.
• Neutral (50): The market is waiting for a direction. A good time to be patient and watch.
• Greed (51-74): The market is getting euphoric. This is a time for caution. It might be a good moment to take some profits off the table or tighten your stop-losses.
• Extreme Greed (75-100): This is often a warning sign. It indicates that the market is due for a correction. When everyone is expecting prices to go up forever, a reversal can be swift and brutal.

Your Next Step

The Bitcoin Fear and Greed Index is a powerful supplement to your trading strategy, but it should never be used in isolation. Always combine its signals with your own technical analysis (chart patterns, indicators) and fundamental analysis (project research).

The index helps you identify a moment of potential opportunity. Your job is to have a reliable platform ready to act on that insight.

Don’t Start a Business Without Knowing This: The Truth About Cost of Goods Sold COGS

What Is Cost of Goods Sold (COGS)? Why Every Business Owner Must Understand It

How to Get Startup Funding: Unlock the Best Funding for Your Dream Business

Starting a new business is exciting, but one question keeps many entrepreneurs up at night: How do I get funding for my startup? Whether you’re launching a tech startup or a local service, understanding how to secure startup funding is crucial to turning your idea into reality. In this post, I’ll walk you through the best ways to get funding for your startup, including grants, loans, and smart strategies that work in today’s market.

Why Startup Funding Is Your First Big Challenge?

You might have the perfect product or service, but without money, your startup won’t get far. That’s why knowing the best funding for startup options can save you time and frustration. From personal savings to government grants, the right funding source depends on your business type, location, and growth goals.

How to Get Funding for Startup: The Basics?

When I first started, I asked myself, how do I get funding for my startup? Here’s what I learned:

• Personal Savings and Bootstrapping: Many entrepreneurs start by using their own money. It’s low risk but can limit how fast you grow.
• Friends and Family: Raising money from people who believe in you can be easier but requires clear agreements.
• Angel Investors and Venture Capital: These investors provide larger sums but expect equity and strong growth potential.
• Bank Loans and SBA Loans: Traditional loans are an option if you have good credit and a solid business plan.
• Grants for Tech Startups: If you’re in tech, look for government or private grants that don’t require repayment.
• Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo let you raise funds from the public, great for product launches.

Grants for Tech Startups: A Hidden Gem

Tech startups often have access to grants that other businesses don’t. These grants can provide non-dilutive capital—meaning you don’t give up ownership. To find these, check out government programs like the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) in the U.S., or local tech incubators.

Tips to Improve Your Startup Business Funding Chances

• Craft a Clear Business Plan: Investors and lenders want to see your path to success.
• Keep Your Finances Transparent: Organize your personal and business financials.
• Network Actively: Attend startup events and pitch competitions.
• Avoid Unverified Funding Sources: Stay clear of bots or shady lenders promising instant money.

What I Wish I Knew Before Seeking Startup Funding

• Funding takes time—don’t expect instant approval.
• Your credit score matters, even for startups.
• Different funding sources have different requirements—do your homework.
• Grants are competitive but worth applying for.

Final Thoughts: Start Your Funding Journey Today

Getting startup funding is challenging but achievable. Whether you’re looking for grants for tech startups or the best funding for startup ideas, preparation is key. Start by polishing your business plan, checking your credit, and exploring trusted platforms.

Ledger Nano S Plus – The $79 Device That Could Save Your Crypto from Hackers

Ledger Nano S Plus Review: Is This $79 Crypto Vault Your Key to Unhackable Wealth?

In 2025, with crypto hacks costing investors billions—$2.2 billion in 2024 alone—securing your digital assets has never been more critical. If you’re searching for a reliable way to protect your Bitcoin, Ethereum, or NFTs, you’ve likely stumbled across the Ledger Nano S Plus. But is this hardware wallet worth your investment? In this Ledger Nano S Plus review,  we’ll dive deep into its features, security, usability, and value to answer your burning questions like: How to use Ledger Nano S Plus? and Does Ledger Nano S Plus have Bluetooth?  Whether you’re a crypto newbie in the U.S. or a seasoned trader in Europe, this guide will help you decide if the Nano S Plus is your ticket to peace of mind.

Why Choose a Hardware Wallet Like the Ledger Nano S Plus?

Cryptocurrency is a wild west of opportunity, but it’s also a magnet for hackers. Unlike hot wallets that stay online, hardware wallets like the Ledger Nano S Plus keep your private keys offline, making them nearly impossible to hack. With a sleek design, support for over 5,500 cryptocurrencies, and a price tag of just $79, the Nano S Plus is a top contender for both beginners and pros. But does it live up to the hype?

Ledger Nano S Plus: A Game-Changer for Crypto Security

Design and Build: Compact Yet Premium

The Ledger Nano S Plus is a pocket-sized powerhouse, measuring 62.39 x 17.40 x 8.24mm and weighing only 21 grams. Its brushed stainless steel and durable plastic build feels sturdy, resisting scratches even when tossed in a bag with your keys. The upgraded 128x64-pixel screen is a massive improvement over the original Nano S, making it easier to verify transactions. Available in colors like matte black, electric blue, and flamingo pink, it’s as stylish as it is functional.

What’s in the Box?

• Ledger Nano S Plus device – the hardware wallet itself.
• USB-C to USB-A cable – for connecting the device to your computer.
• Three recovery phrase sheets – to securely write down your 24-word seed phrase.
• Keychain strap – for carrying convenience.
• Getting-started guide – quick instructions for setup.
• Ledger stickers – branded stickers for personalization.

This thoughtful packaging ensures you have everything needed to start securing your crypto safely. Just make sure the shrink wrap is intact to avoid tampering risks.

Unbreakable Security: Your Crypto’s Fort Knox

When it comes to protecting your wealth, the Ledger Nano S Plus doesn’t mess around. Here’s why it’s one of the most secure wallets in 2025:

1- Certified Secure Element Chip (CC EAL6+): This chip, used in passports and credit cards, keeps your private keys offline, safe from hackers.

2- BOLOS Operating System: Ledger’s proprietary OS isolates apps for maximum protection.

3- PIN Protection: Set a 4- to 8-digit PIN to lock your device. Enter the wrong PIN three times, and it resets, wiping all data.

4- 24-Word Recovery Phrase: This backup lets you restore your wallet if the device is lost. Store it offline in a safe place—never online!

5- Physical Transaction Confirmation: Every transaction requires button presses on the device, thwarting phishing attempts.

Pro Tip: Consider Ledger’s optional Ledger Recover service ($9.99/month) for encrypted backup of your recovery phrase, perfect for those worried about losing their seed phrase. However, privacy-focused users may skip this due to its KYC requirements.

How to Use Ledger Nano S Plus: A Step-by-Step Guide

1- Download Ledger Live: Get the app from ledger.com for Windows, macOS, Linux, or Android.

2- Connect the Device: Plug the Nano S Plus into your computer or Android phone using the USB-C cable.

3- Set Up as New Device: Follow the on-screen prompts to initialize your wallet.

4- Choose a PIN: Pick a 4- to 8-digit PIN and confirm it.

Why Phantom Wallet Is Taking Over: Solana, Ethereum, Bitcoin & More

What Is Phantom Wallet?

How to be an accredited investor? Understanding accredited investor in 2025

I’ve been hearing a lot about the term accredited investor lately, especially with new rules coming out in 2025. I want to know exactly how to be an accredited investor and what the accredited investor requirements are now. Also, I’m curious about how to define accredited investor properly and what investor accreditation means in practice. I live in the U.S., and I want to make sure I qualify before jumping into private investments or startups. Can someone explain the current criteria and what steps I need to take?