Southland News

Card reward programs are a great way to earn points for cash back, merchandise, travel and other benefits as you make your everyday purchases. You’ve likely heard of rewards paired with credit cards, but debit card rewards programs have emerged as an alternative to traditional credit card rewards. Here’s how you can optimize both credit and debit card benefits.

Advantages to earning points with your debit card

No interest or debt. Debit card rewards offer an appealing option for those avoiding debt, as they allow you to earn points or cashback without taking on credit.

Earn points on everyday purchases. Debit rewards unlock the opportunity to earn points with your everyday checking account, maximizing your points earning potential.

Pay bills and subscriptions. Use your rewards debit card to pay your recurring bills and subscriptions to earn points.

Tips for earning points with your credit card

Pick the right card. When choosing a rewards credit card, consider all factors, including the interest rate, introductory APR, annual fee (if any) and the type of rewards you can earn.

Plan purchases. Credit cards typically offer more points per dollar spent than debit cards. Plan your credit card spending for the month based on what you can afford to maximize your earnings.

Pay your balance in full. Carrying a balance can negate rewards through interest charges.

Saving rewards points

Know when to redeem. Avoid redeeming points on a whim. Research your redemption options and set goals for saving your points for the best value.  

Don’t let points expire. Be aware of expiration policies and aim to use points before they expire.

Keep an eye on promotions. Some cards offer periodic promotions or bonuses on points redemption, which can give you better value. Travel offers also change frequently, so check your redemption options often.

Spending rewards wisely

Redeem for travel. If you have a card that offers travel rewards, your points can often be worth more when redeemed for flights or hotel stays compared to other redemption options.

Look for store discounts. Some cards offer additional points or discounts at participating retailers or gas stations.

Track your points. Check your rewards site regularly to keep track of your points balance.

More tips

Bundle your points. Enjoy! Rewards by Southland allows you to bundle the points earned on your Enjoy! Rewards debit card and with your Enjoy! Rewards credit card.

Earn bonus points. Bonus point offers allow you to earn a large amount of points at once. The Enjoy! Rewards program offers bonus points for opening an auto loan, personal loan, HELOC or mortgage.

By strategically managing your rewards card usage, you can optimize how you earn, save and spend your rewards points to get the most value.