Credit Card Reward Points: What Can You Get?

Do you carry a rewards credit card? Do you find yourself accumulating one point after the next? Do you often wonder when it makes sense to redeem your points, while also thinking about what you can get in return?

Before applying for a credit card it’s important to learn more about the reward program, including how you can use your points.

While no two offers are the same, here are some of the many things you may be able to get when you finally decide to redeem your points:

• There is no better feeling than redeeming your points in exchange for cash. Most credit cards with this option allow you to choose from a paper check, direct deposit, or statement credit.
• Perhaps the most common choice, this includes everything from hotels to rental cars to airline tickets. If you enjoy traveling, you’ll want to choose a rewards card that allows you to use your points for all types of travel expenses.
• Gift cards. With access to gift cards from top retailers, you can always put your points to good use. If you’re the type who likes to use your points to buy gifts for others, it’s nice to have access to this category.

These are the three most common categories for redeeming your reward points, but you may find that you have access to others. For example, some credit cards have a “household goods” category, offering everything from computers to televisions (and that’s just the start).

It doesn’t matter if you’re applying for a rewards credit card or already have one, make sure you know the reward program like the back of your hand. This will give you a good idea of how you can use your points when the time comes.

When was the last time you redeemed credit card reward points? What did you get in return? Were you happy with your decision?