5 ways to maximize credit card rewards programs
When it comes to credit cards and rewards, not all are created equal, but once you know what’s right for you, rewards systems can be a nice source of extra income and perk
Let’s take a look at five keys to consider to help maximize credit card rewards and make them work for you.
No. 1: Choosing the right card
Do you dream of visiting far off places? Or maybe you prefer to play it safe and straight, and like the look of cash in your bank account. Whatever the case may be, when looking to capitalize on rewards programs, choose a card that fits your lifestyle. If you prefer your couch to an airplane seat, chances are good a mileage credit card is not right for you. The point is, assess your life and your goals, then find the card with a rewards program that matches.
No. 2: Take advantage of one time offers
Many cards have intro offers, from miles to cash bonuses. Once you find the card that fits your lifestyle, see if it has an opening promotion. If it does, be sure to check out the fine print to understand if there are certain rules to qualify for the promotion.
For instance, the BBVA Compass Rewards Card comes with a $100 welcome bonus when the customer purchases items totaling more than $1,500 within 90 days of account opening, and a zero percent introductory Purchase APR for 13 months.
No. 3: Using the card to pay for purchases and bills
With most credit cards, rewards stack up quicker when used to pay for monthly bills and purchases. Of course, it’s the consumer’s job to read the fine print to understand the card’s exact terms and conditions and ensure their purchases count.
BBVA Compass’ newest card, the BBVA Compass Rewards Card, offers rewards to customers for every purchase they make, with no cap on earnings, and boasts an easy to understand rewards structure that earns 1.5 percent in rewards for every $1 spent across all categories, and the ability to garner 2 percent in rewards with a qualifying bank relationship.
No. 4: Know the rules
This is key to any credit card rewards program. Knowing the rules of the program, and any limitations, will help ensure that you keep the rewards you earn. There are a few ways users can lose rewards. For instance, some issuers specify in their agreements that points have a shelf life, and will disappear if not used by a certain timeframe. Still other rewards programs indicate that cards that are not used for a period of time may get canceled, which means the rewards affiliated with the card are, too. The best way to ensure your rewards are not inadvertently forfeited - or don’t qualify - is to know the terms and conditions of the program.
No. 5: Pay off the balance monthly
It goes without saying that carrying credit card debt month-to-month is a habit you don’t want to continue. It’s similarly important to not carry debt when looking to take advantage of rewards card programs. By carrying over a balance, and incurring the ensuing interest, you’re essentially paying for the rewards that you’ve earned during the month.
To learn more about BBVA Compass credit cards, click here.
To learn more about the BBVA Compass Rewards credit card which rewards customers for every purchase they make, with no cap on earnings, and boasts an easy to understand rewards structure that earns 1.5 percent in rewards for every $1 spent across all categories, and the ability to garner 2 percent in rewards with a qualifying bank relationship, click here.