As the merger of Air India and Vistara airlines picks up steam, the process of merging their loyalty programs has also begun.
29.04.2024 - 16:15 / thepointsguy.com
What is a cash-back credit card, and how does this kind of card work?
In short, cash-back credit cards are, as the name suggests, cards that provide a cash-back return on some or all purchases made with the card. The earnings rates on these cards can be complex or incredibly simple. Cash-back cards are generally compared to travel credit cards, which instead offer rewards points or miles with a given card issuer, hotel or airline.
Let's take a closer look at the ins and outs of cash-back cards so you can determine if they're right for you.
Most cash-back cards offer a simple return rate on purchases made in a given set of categories. For example, if a credit card offers 2% cash back on every purchase, you'll earn 2 cents back per dollar you spend.
Some credit cards offer a flat return rate on all purchases, while others offer higher return rates on popular spending categories.
Unlike travel credit cards, cash-back cards offer rewards with a fixed cash value — a double-edged sword, depending on how you redeem your rewards.
Related: The pros and cons of cash-back credit cards
Cash-back credit cards are typically more straightforward than their points and miles counterparts. Generally speaking, you'll earn cash back on all eligible purchases, excluding things like:
Purchases made through a digital wallet or wireless card reader can be difficult to categorize as well, meaning you may not always earn the full rewards rate for those transactions.
Cashback is generally issued at the end of your card's statement period or billing cycle and can be redeemed as a bank account deposit, statement credit, check, gift card or other option, depending on the card.
Related: How to choose a cash-back credit card
Cash-back credit cards offer simple rewards for those who don't want to deal with points and miles.
Some cash-back cards offer a flat return rate, while others offer higher returns for different categories of purchases. Cash-back rewards can generally be redeemed for statement credits, converted into online shopping credits or deposited directly into bank accounts.
Ready to look at your options? Check out our guide to the best cash-back cards to get started.
As the merger of Air India and Vistara airlines picks up steam, the process of merging their loyalty programs has also begun.
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In theory, Pimalai Resort and Spa in Thailand’s Krabi province checks all the boxes for Indian tourists. But the majority of the travelers limit their visit to Bangkok and Phuket, owner Charintip Tiyaphorn told Skift.
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Artificial intelligence might take your job. But at least you'll be less likely to miss a connecting flight.
There are all sorts of travel credit cards (like hotel and airline cards), and most fall into one of two categories — personal or business. Nearly anyone can apply for a personal credit card, but we often get one question: do you need to own a business to get a business credit card?
Let's say you bought a ticket to Europe last year, but you need a refund because your flight was canceled. The airline returns the fare cost to your credit card, leading to a negative balance on your card. Returned or refunded purchases don't just decrease your account balance, though. They also decrease your rewards balance.
With so many business credit cards on the market, it can be difficult to determine which is best for your company's needs.
Qatar Airways has long been known for having a top-notch inflight experience, especially if you’re sitting up front in the airline’s Qsuites business class. The Doha-based carrier is consistently ranked as one of the best international airlines in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. Add in a newly renovated Hamad International Airport—recently awarded the title of best airport in the world—and you have the makings for a solid travel day.
Taking a spontaneous trip is one of the most rewarding forms of travel. Finding cheap last-minute flights, on the other hand, can feel like an impossible barrier to flying by the seat of your pants. But booking with low-cost carriers isn't the only way to avoid forking over exorbitant fares. There are last-minute deals to be found—if you know where and how to look.
It’s almost summertime, and those family vacations aren’t going to plan themselves. If you are hoping to earn points and miles for upcoming trips to sunnier (or cooler) climes, there are some travel promotions that can double or triple those loyalty program earnings. And for the jetsetters who want to redeem those hard-earned points and miles, now is the time to start looking to find the best deal.
This series of articles about credit cards, points and miles, and budgeting for travel is brought to you in partnership with The Points Guy.