Exploring Your Rewards With a Credit Card

In Saints Row, you can unlock a lot of perks to give your character buffs. The new Perk system is more robust than in the past and allows you to boost several different stats.

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Unlike Traits, Perks can be leveled up in multiple characters. Perks unlocked on one character will apply a discount when bought on another character, saving you gold.

Benefits

Unlocking rewards with a reward card can be a great way to make the most of your spending. If you're not sure what to look for, ask your card issuer what perks are available to its members. This may be done through email surveys, social media or in-person events.

For example, American AAdvantage members can redeem miles for many different perks including flights, lounge access and vacation packages. It also recently expanded the threshold to earn its top-tier status and added benefits like extra legroom seating, Five Star Service bookings and Admirals Club membership.

When evaluating cards, consider all fees associated with the card, such as an annual fee, cash-advance and balance-transfer fees. This can add up quickly and make your perks less valuable.

Rewards

Most rewards cards offer a range of redemption options, including cash back, merchandise and gift cards purchased through the card issuer, travel perks and more. Reward redemption can be done through the card issuer's online portal, which serves as a one-stop shop for your rewards. Note that you must wait for rewards to post before beginning the redemption process. It can take up to two billing cycles for your rewards to appear on your account. yourrewardcard

Depending on the card, you may also be able to earn rewards through initial/sign-up bonuses (a lump-sum rewards bounty for spending a set amount within a certain time period), spending-based rewards (flat or different earning rates for various sending categories) and anniversary bonuses (a flat or variable number of points, miles or cash back each year). The best credit card for your needs will have reward structures that fit your existing spending habits.

Time-Based Bonuses

Credit cards often offer bonus structures to help consumers meet their spending requirements and maximize rewards earnings. These bonuses can come in the form of statement credits, merchandise, gift cards or travel perks. Typically, these bonus programs require the consumer to meet a minimum spending requirement within a specific timeframe to earn the bonus. This is a great incentive for those looking to make a significant purchase quickly, but it may not be as rewarding for those who are able to spend less each month. For this reason, Whillans recommends companies supplement financial bonuses with time-based rewards like vacation days or flex hours.