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Extreme couponers have always favored coupon stacking, which involves applying multiple discounts to a single purchase. Similarly, some credit card users maximize savings by combining discounts and rewards programs during card transactions. Here’s how you can do the same and enjoy significant savings!
Use a Shopping Portal
The easiest way to earn additional rewards from your credit card is by using an online shopping portal. Many credit card programs provide rewards for purchases made through their shopping sites after clicking their links.
Additionally, numerous airline and hotel loyalty programs have their own shopping portals allowing you to earn extra points and miles. For instance, United Airlines offers MileagePlus Shopping and Hilton provides the Honors Shop-to-Earn Mall.
There are also cash-back portals like Ebates and Mr. Rebates. However, you can only earn rewards from one portal per purchase. It’s common to earn up to three points or miles per dollar at major retailers and even more at specialty shops. To find the best rewards for specific retailers, use shopping portal comparison sites like CashBackMonitor.com or evreward.com. (See also: 30+ Cash Back Sites to Earn You Thousands Per Year)
Earn Sign-Up Bonuses from Your Credit Cards
Another way to increase savings is by taking advantage of sign-up bonuses from new credit card offers. For instance, if a card offers new cardholders $150 in cash back after spending $500 on new purchases within three months, you effectively earn an extra 30 cents per dollar on that $500 in purchases. These purchases are also eligible for the card’s standard rewards program, whether it’s cash back or travel points, along with bonuses from shopping portals. Therefore, one transaction could yield three different types of reward points! (See also: Best Credit Cards With Bonus Cash for Sign Up)
Request Targeted Offers from Your Credit Card Issuers
The credit card industry is highly competitive, with banks eager to encourage customers to choose their cards. One method is to present bonus rewards for spending during specific periods. For example, you might receive an offer for 5,000 bonus points if you spend $1,000 each month for three months.
To check your eligibility for these offers, simply contact your bank’s customer service and inquire. It’s also advisable to opt in for promotional emails and mail, as they contain valuable advertisements.
Utilize Retailer Loyalty Programs
Many retailers offer loyalty programs that let you earn rewards in store credit. For example, Dick’s Sporting Goods has a ScoreCard program that gives you 3% back, and Costco’s Executive Rewards program offers 2% back on every purchase. Almost every airline and hotel chain also features a loyalty program that’s free to join. Additionally, when booking travel, the Expedia+ program allows you to earn rewards on purchases, sometimes in conjunction with airline or hotel rewards from your reservations. Ensure you provide your rewards membership number when ordering. (See also: How to Score More Loyalty Perks from Your Credit Card Company)
How to Stack These Rewards
While it may seem daunting to follow several steps to make a purchase, the potential savings make it worthwhile. Instead of claiming just 1.5% cash back from a flat-rate cash back credit card, you could earn an additional 3% through a shopping portal and perhaps another 2% in store points by enrolling in a loyalty program. On a $300 purchase, this can transform your reward from $4.50 to $19.50. All it takes is a bit of dedication and organization.
