Master Credit Card Rewards: Avoid Debt, Maximize Benefits with This Simple System

• Use credit cards for rewards only if you consistently pay the full balance to avoid high interest rates that negate benefits.
• Select a card aligning with your existing spending habits (groceries, fuel) to prevent overspending; scrutinize premium card fees.
• Treat the card as a payment tool, not a loan, by only charging expenses you would pay anyway, avoiding artificial spending for rewards.
• Always pay the full statement balance by the due date and keep credit utilization below one-third to maintain a healthy credit profile.
• Be wary of hidden costs like annual fees, foreign transaction mark-ups, and offers that encourage unnecessary spending; redeem rewards regularly.

Why It Matters: Use credit cards wisely: pay in full, match spending, avoid debt, and rewards will quietly improve finances.