How to Use a Credit Card for Frequent Flyer Miles
Gathering credit card frequent flier miles is as easy as using a credit card. There are tons of offers floating around, vying for attention and claiming that its company has the best bang for a buck. This article will sort out the best credit card deals for airline miles and explain how to use them before they expire.
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Instructions
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Before applying for any credit cards, check your credit report. By law, Americans are allotted one free credit report check per year. Credit scores range from 300 to 850 points. The lower the number, the poorer the score. Good credit is generally considered to be in the 680 and up range. If your credit isn't up to par, try paying bills on time each month, paying down debt. All of these suggestions can bring up a low score over time.
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Engage in comparison shopping. It's crucial when choosing an airline mile rewards credit card. There are several to choose from and different benefits from each. Consumers who have a preferred airline may choose to apply for a card from the airline's specific frequent flier rewards program. Others who airline hop for the least expensive flight will benefit most from researching the different offers of each company.
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Choose a card based on annual fees and interest. The lower the interest rate and annual fee, the easier the debt will be to pay down each month. After narrowing down the choices based on interest rates and fees, look at the ratio of spending to airline mile points. The best companies and plans will give their credit holders one or more points for each dollar spent. American Express Delta Skymiles cards are an option that reward members a dollar for each purchase up to $100,000 and double points for Delta purchases and other eligible "everyday" purchases.
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Try to find a card that does not impose blackout dates or seat restrictions. Most companies have rid themselves of these outdated policies because of competition, but be wary. There may still be some out there.
Average expiration dates are set around 3 years after getting the airline mileage points. Be sure to know the expiration limits.
Frequentflier.com recommends choosing the airline closest to your area or an airline with a hub in your area. -
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Spend with your credit card--when it makes sense. The easiest part of attaining a credit card is to spend. After deciding which card and company delivers the most benefits for your money, use your card for purchases that can be paid off easily or those emergencies that pop up occasionally. Check into all of the partner companies and redeem miles from purchases made at the partner sites. Review your statements to make sure your purchases are being accounted for and added to the miles total. Frequentflier.com suggests credit card users join the company's newsletter or email list for current promotions and deals.
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Tips & Warnings
Try to find a credit card with a low or zero percent APR. After the introductory period is over, most credit card companies will let you roll over the balance to another company. Say hello to more low APR rates, but make sure that your miles have either been used or will roll over with the balance. In some cases, rewards do not.
Be sure to look into all of the fine print and know exactly what the contract says before signing it. Applying for several credit cards at once or even over a short period can negatively affect credit ratings. Choose wisely. Not all places take all credit cards. The most commonly accepted are Visa and Mastercard. Avoid cards that have blackout dates or seat restrictions. There is nothing worse than trying to book a trip and not being able to. Don't put more on a credit card than can be paid for each month. Use common sense.
