5 Stress-Free Ways to Increase Credit Card Rewards

You don't need savvy strategies to make the most of your points and miles.

Credit card rewards can be a great way to get some extra cash back, earn discounted travel and more. To make the most of their rewards, credit card enthusiasts employ sophisticated ways to squeeze as much value out of each point and mile they earn.

Some credit card rewards programs are arguably better than others because they offer more flexibility and more valuable redemption options. But redemption is only one piece of the puzzle with cash back, points and miles.

1. Pick a Card That Matches Your Spending

A lot of credit card rewards experts live and die by travel rewards, and the deeper you get into your strategy to maximize rewards, focusing on travel rewards might make sense. Paying off debt. Building your emergency fund. Saving for retirement. Covering necessary expenses.

2. Consider Your Financial Situation

Many credit card rewards programs, including cash back, points and miles programs, allow you to use your rewards to buy gift cards to popular retailers and restaurant chains.

3. Treat Yourself With Gift Cards

If you have a travel rewards credit card, your points or miles can allow you to save hundreds or even thousands of dollars on travel.

4. Focus on Limiting Travel Expenses

You'll hear a lot of opinions about which redemptions are the best, and that list can vary depending on the rewards program.

5. Focus on Redemptions That Make Sense for You

"I would suggest that you just get one card to begin with. Choose the card that seems most likely to help you accomplish your goals," says Kay. "Use that card to actually work towards and accomplish those goals. Then, take stock, and decide if you want to branch out to other cards."

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