How to Win the Holidays with Credit Card Rewards

(BPT) – The holiday season is here, and with it comes gift-giving, travel and plenty of other ways to rack up expenses. If you want to maximize your dollars, you need to spend like a pro — and that means using credit card rewards. Whether you want to plan a trip away or have the best-decorated house on your street, here is everything you need to know to make sure you are getting the most bang for your buck.How to earn and use credit card points in three easy steps:Rewards come in many shapes and sizes, but generally, there are three main ways to rack up savings: sign-up bonuses, purchases and credit card referrals.First, when signing up for a credit card, issuers offer sign-up bonuses that work from the moment your card activates — basically free money. Additionally, a card might offer a massive point bonus after spending a fixed amount after signing up. In some instances, the bonus can exceed 100,000 points (about $1,000). That extra income is sure to jingle anyone’s bells.Purchases also allow you to gain points with cashback cards that go directly to your “rewards portal.” These portals exist as space for you to redeem your points on things like airplane tickets, hotel rooms, or other big-ticket items. If you belong to specific loyalty programs, you can also transfer your points to those. With special deals on a rotating list of top brands, your loved ones are going to love the gifts your rewards card can bring.Lastly, referrals are a great way to increase your credit card points. Depending on your favorite card, you can refer your friends and family to maximize your points. With digital transactions growing increasingly popular, it’s as easy as ever to send a friend a link and reap the rewards. Once they’ve signed up for the card, you’ll see the boost in your bank account. The holidays are about giving, so give your friends and family the gift of rewards!Up your credit reward game for more holiday joy: If you want to make the best holiday memories, being on a tight budget can really put coal in your stocking. But credit card rewards can help expand your budget and open new opportunities.Retailers offer great deals on food and decorations, giving upwards of 10% cash back on specific purchases (including candy or gifts). This benefit can help reduce the price of a family meal, with grocery stores and even restaurants getting in on the action.Hopefully, these tips and tricks have helped you find the best deals and opportunities to maximize your credit card points! With the holiday fast approaching, there are plenty of reasons to sign up now. Not only are the best deals approaching, but Congress is considering legislation that would end most reward programs. So, the time to sign up is now!