The sheer number of credit cards many people carry can feel overwhelming, a constant reminder of potential benefits easily forgotten. Remembering every perk, every deadline, can seem like an impossible task.
Instead of struggling to keep track, consider a monthly checklist – a guide to ensure you’re maximizing the value of your cards before those valuable credits disappear.
November presents a unique opportunity to leverage several card benefits. American Express, in particular, often distributes statement credits monthly, rather than as a single annual allowance, making consistent use crucial.
The American Express Platinum Card offers a digital entertainment credit of up to $25, usable for subscriptions like Disney+, Hulu, and The New York Times. You can also receive up to $15 in Uber Cash, and up to $12.95 for a Walmart+ membership. Remember, these are "use it or lose it" credits – they won’t roll over.
Platinum cardholders also enjoy up to $9.99 monthly for Uber One and Saks Fifth Avenue credits, plus potential statement credits through Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection, requiring a minimum two-night stay.
The American Express Business Platinum Card provides up to $50 quarterly for Hilton purchases, up to $10 wireless credits, and up to $1,150 in Dell purchases. Like the Platinum, it also offers statement credits for Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection.
The American Express Gold Card provides up to $10 in Uber Cash each month, up to $10 in dining credits, and up to $7 at Dunkin’. Resy credits, up to $100 annually, are also available.
The American Express Business Gold Card offers up to $20 flexible statement credits monthly on purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and office supply stores.
Delta cobranded cards offer monthly ride-hailing credits and Resy credits, while the Hilton Honors cards provide credits for stays at Hilton resorts and flights.
Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders can utilize The Edit hotel credits, DoorDash credits, and Lyft credits. The Sapphire Preferred card offers a hotel credit, and Chase Freedom cardholders can earn cash back on rotating categories.
U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature cardholders can earn 5% cash back on rotating categories, while World Elite Mastercards offer monthly Lyft credits and Peacock subscription discounts.
Ultimately, actively using these benefits can significantly offset the annual fees associated with premium credit cards, transforming them from expenses into valuable rewards.