Boost Your Rewards Fast: Top Hacks for Credit Card Users in 2024

Many people use rewards credit cards for everyday purchases. These cards make it easy to get rewarded when you spend money. If you're new to earning credit card rewards or want to step up your game, you might be looking for strategies to boost your rewards potential. I'll share a few ways credit card users can earn rewards faster.

1. Put everything you can afford on your card

First, you should only charge your credit card accounts for purchases you can afford. You could rack up expensive credit card debt if you spend beyond your means. But if you charge everything you can afford to pay with cash to your rewards credit cards and pay your bills in full each month, you can maximize the rewards you earn.

You won't earn rewards if you pay for purchases with non-rewards credit cards or cash. Unless you're charged a credit card processing fee to pay an expense with a credit card, use a rewards credit card as payment so you earn more rewards.

2. Choose a rewards credit card that matches your spending

It pays to be selective about the rewards cards you add to your wallet. Ensure you're choosing cards that align with your spending habits. A travel rewards credit card likely isn't ideal if you travel infrequently.

But if you dine out and order takeout often, you can maximize your rewards by getting a dining and restaurant credit card. Consider your top spending categories before applying for a new rewards credit card so you choose one that is best for you.

3. Shop through credit card portals

Some credit card companies have shopping portals that customers can use to earn rewards when they shop. You can earn rewards after activating offers from your favorite retailers and making eligible purchases. Then you shop like you usually do.

Using these portals could help you reach your rewards goals sooner. You can earn double the rewards by shopping through a portal and using your cash back credit card as payment. Two examples of such portals include Shop Through Chase and Barclays RewardsBoost.

4. Use the right rewards card at checkout

It's also wise to pay attention to which card you use at checkout. You can maximize your rewards by being strategic about which credit card you use for payment.

Some credit cards offer flat-rate rewards, like 2% cash back back on all purchases. Others reward cardholders who make purchases in select categories, like 3 points per $1 on travel purchases. Use the credit card that offers the most rewards when paying for a purchase.

5. Don't ignore valuable welcome offers

Another way to boost your rewards is to take advantage of available welcome offers. Many credit card issuers have welcome offers to attract new customers. When you apply for a new credit card and meet the minimum spend requirements, you may earn a welcome offer.

One way you could miss out on a valuable welcome offer, however, is if you upgrade your current credit card directly through the issuer rather than applying for a new card, since upgrades won't qualify for a welcome offer.

Credit card rewards are a win for your wallet

Using rewards credit cards is a smart personal finance move. You can take a few extra steps to maximize the rewards you earn. Remember these tips the next time you swipe your favorite rewards credit card. Review our list of the best rewards credit cards to find your next card.