Credit cards can earn you cash, airline miles, or rewards. To
get the most out of your credit card company, you have to choose
the right program and use your card often.
Pick The Right Program
Do you want a free trip to Hawaii or cash at the end of the
year? Credit card companies offer a variety of reward programs,
so choose the one that you like the best.
If you are planning to earn airline miles, pick a destination
and make sure your rewards program covers that area. Some credit
card companies partner with a specific airline while others
offer generic travel miles.
Cash rewards usually work out to 1% to 5% back on all your
purchases. At the end of the year you could end up with a
sizable check. Cash rewards don't apply to transfers or cash
withdrawals.
Generic reward programs offer points for your purchases. Those
points can then be redeemed either for products through the
credit card company or gift cards for name brand stores like
Starbucks, Home Depot, or Toys 'R Us.
Earn Your Rewards
To truly get the most out of your rewards program, you will need
to use your credit card often. By using your card to pay for all
your purchases, including groceries, prescriptions, and
household bills, you can earn an airline trip or over a thousand
dollars in a year.
Also look for special offers that are included in your monthly
statement. Sometimes you can double your points by using your
card with a certain merchant. You can also receive coupons for
additional savings at these places.
Don't Get Caught
Reward programs usually charge a higher interest rate than other
credit cards. To make sure you don't get stung on finance
charges, pay off your balance every month.
Instead of whipping out your credit card every time you want to
make a purchase, start with a monthly budget. Plan on how much
you can afford to spend and stick with it. If you do carry a
balance, know how much it will cost you.
Not only can you earn rewards for your purchases, you can also
improve your credit score by making regular, on-time payments.
The more responsible you are with your credit, the more likely
you can qualify for more.
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