How to Take Full Advantage of Your Credit Card Rewards

Because you can’t maximise your credit card benefits if you don’t know what they are. For example, you might have a cash-back platinum credit card that gives you extra cash back on certain dates. Not swiping your card on these dates means you’re missing out on the rewards!

Don’t know how to check? Just head to your bank’s website and find your card. This should help you see all of the benefits and perks that come with your credit card.   

Now that you know your credit card and what it offers, you can maximise your credit card rewards and benefits.  

The rise of e-wallets means that it’s so much easier – and sometimes cheaper due to e-wallet discounts – to pay for groceries and make bill payments. But if your credit card’s cash-back programme is better in comparison, then it’s time to switch your payment method and swipe your card instead.

You also most likely receive official SMSes and emails on seasonal offers, cash back and discounts. Take advantage of the ones most relevant to you and get the most of your credit card rewards!  

Even if you’re not using a travel credit card, you can still convert your bonus points to air miles. This way, you can redeem flight tickets and get discounts on travel, hotels and more. Keep in mind that the redemption rate varies depending on your bank’s offers.

If you’re a frequent traveller, however, we recommend that you switch to a travel credit card that will provide you with more travel benefits than a regular card would. Some travel cards can offer benefits such as extra bonus points/cash back on overseas spending, lower bonus points to air miles conversion value and airport lounge access. Higher-tier travel cards even offer you complimentary stays or some sort of membership to a club or hotel.

Does your card come with insurance coverage? Then always keep this in mind and use your card to make flight ticket purchases. 

If you’ve been using your credit card for a while, then you might accumulate a number of bonus points. While it’s fun to use these to redeem goodies, the better way is by using your points to offset big purchases or shopping needs instead.

CIMB card users can check the merchant listings here. 

Do you use your credit card for everything? Bill payments, online shopping, in-store purchases, e-wallet top-up, etc? If your answer is yes, then there are ways to rake up bonus points on your purchases.

For example, this card gives you 12x more bonus points when you use it on a certain date of the month. Check and see if your credit card has a similar campaign that you can take full advantage of. Collect those bonus points and maximise them!   

So you’ve upgraded your smartphone twice in the past 5 years, but not your banking products? Then it might be time to do a review of your credit card benefits and rewards and survey what else is better for you out there. This is especially important if you’re still using the first credit card that you applied for when you started working.

Now that you’re older and much wiser, you probably have a better sense of your finances and spending pattern. Your income has probably increased as well, making you more eligible for credit cards that offer more benefits for your lifestyle.

You can always browse through our cards here or use comparison websites to search for a card that suits you best. All the best!  

This article is for informational purposes only and CIMB does not make any representation and warranty as to the accuracy, completeness and fairness of any information contained in this article. As this article is general in nature, it is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. You are advised to consult a financial advisor or investment professional before making any decisions based on the information contained in this article. CIMB assumes no liability for any consequences arising from your reliance on the information presented here.