Most card providers offer some type of credit card rewards to their customers. These offers are designed to be both exciting and beneficial for the consumer, offering perks and bonuses for simply using the card.
The credit card rewards is a strategy used by credit card companies for attracting and keeping you as their customer. There are a wide range of credit cards with rewards available. Some offer points that can be exchanged for gift cards or statement credits. Others offer air miles, cash back, gas rebates and more!
If you are the type of person who does a great deal of traveling, there are even cards that will earn you free hotel stays! Many people are not sure which rewards card they should go with, so it is very helpful to take a look at what rewards you would benefit from the most.
As with all types of credit cards, you will want to be sure that you read all the fine print for each card you are considering, that way you can make an educated choice and informed decision.
What Reward Will You Choose?
Many people choose the type of credit card they want based on the type of reward program it offers. Business people that travel a great deal find it better to go with cards that offer frequent flyer miles because they can build up airmiles and free flights rather quickly.
There are also credit card rewards that will allow you to earn free gas cards (and with today’s that is truly a huge bonus!). You can really cash in on the rewards if you do all of your purchases with your credit card then pay the credit card bill in full each month. This way you will avoid all interest charges and the rewards will really be free.
Try and weigh the rewards that each card offers and think about what reward you would be most likely to use. Many cards also carry free secondary bonuses such as travel insurance or breakdown coverage. Remember, the best rewards credit card for one person may not be the best for another. Base your choice on your particular needs and you’re sure to end up with credit card rewards you will use and be happy with.
When looking into what each card has to offer, you should review the interest rate and see if there are any annual fees. Many of us tend to forget the annual fee until it appears on our statements! You’ll also want to know what types of finance charges they have on late or missed payments.
I can’t stress enough how important it is that you always make at least the minimum payment on time. It could damage your credit rating if you don’t.
Credit Card Rewards for Special Needs
Often you can find a credit card that provides rewards that fit perfectly with your own goals or lifestyle. Small businesses can reduce the amount spend on office supplies by choosing a business credit card offering discounts at participating office supply outlets.
If you are planning a trip to Disneyland, you can obtain a credit card that provides discounts on Disney products and builds points that can be used on your next trip to a Disney destination resort.
Families that do a lot of driving or sales people who spend all week on the road will appreciate rewards cards that provide discounts on gasoline purchases. These cards can be found for most of the larger gasoline brands so you can choose the gasoline outlet that suits you best.
Choose Rewards You Will Use
Credit cards that offer special reward programs or award points or air miles are only valuable if you use the rewards offered by the program. Remember the importance of balancing fees and interest rate rather than only looking at potential rewards.