Best Credit Cards for Couples, well finding the right credit card strategy as a couple can seem tricky at first. With two individuals, two incomes, and expenses to split, you want to make sure you are maximizing rewards and getting the most bang for your buck.
The good news is that by selecting the right cards and combining finances strategically, you and your partner can earn points, miles, and cashback even faster together.
Best Credit Cards for Couples
When choosing the best cards, consider factors like flexible points, annual credits, authorized user bonuses, and splitting expenses across cards. With the right setup, you’ll be earning rewards on everything from groceries and dining out to travel and everyday purchases. This guide will explore some of the top credit card options for couples looking to make the most of their combined spending.
Cards with Flexible Points
For maximum versatility, flexible points that can be pooled and used by either partner are key. The Chase Sapphire Preferred is a top pick, earning 2x points on dining and travel and 1x on other purchases. The points can be transferred to airline and hotel partners or used to book travel through Chase’s portal where they’re worth 25% more.
The Capital One Venture also offers excellent flexibility, with 2x miles earned on all purchases. Each mile functions like a penny towards travel purchased on the card, so both partners can redeem them for flights, hotels, rental cars, and more.
Citi ThankYou points also offer solid flexibility within the Citi ecosystem of cards. Points earned on cards like the Citi Premier don’t expire and can be pooled across accounts. Partners like JetBlue provide good transfer options.
Cards with Annual Credits for Couples
Cards that offer annual statement credits in categories like dining and travel are great for couples to double up on. For example, the Amex Gold Card offers a $120 annual dining credit that can be used by both primary and authorized users. Since it’s released in $10 monthly increments, couples can get $240 total back on dining purchases annually.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve provides a $300 annual travel credit that each member can tap into individually. So for couples, that equates to $600 in statement credits toward travel purchases like flights, hotels, parking, and more.
Cards with Bonuses for Authorized Users
By adding one partner as an authorized user on the other partner’s credit card, many issuers provide additional points or cash bonuses.
For instance, American Express offers bonuses for adding authorized users across cards like the Gold, Green, and Platinum. On the Amex Gold Card, adding up to 5 authorized users earns 500 Membership Rewards points each.
On Chase cards like the Freedom and Freedom Unlimited, adding an authorized user earns a $25 statement credit per user. So couples can rack up an easy extra $50 in cashback. Just make sure to avoid fees that some issuers charge for authorized users.
Splitting Expenses Across Multiple Cards
To maximize bonus category rewards, couples can assign different spending categories to different cards. Use one card for groceries, another for dining, another for gas, etc based on the highest earnings rate.
For example, the Amex Gold Card offers 4x points at restaurants and supermarkets (up to a limit), so that could be designated as the grocery and dining card. The Chase Freedom Flex could be used for 5% back on rotating quarterly categories. Splitting expenses wisely across cards can help you rack up points faster.
Just be mindful of minimum spend requirements for sign-up bonuses whenever you open a new account. Coordinate with your partner to make sure you hit the minimums.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, communication and coordination are key for couples aiming to maximize rewards. Have discussions about what points and perks matter most to you, make a concrete plan for spending categories and new card applications, and track expenses diligently.
With a little effort, you and your partner can earn tons of points on essentials like groceries, dining, travel, and everyday purchases in no time. So shop together, earn together, and ultimately, enjoy those hard-earned rewards together.
FAQ
What is the Difference Between Annual Credits and Rewards Points?
Annual credits and rewards points are both perks offered by credit cards, but they serve different purposes. Annual credits are essentially a financial incentive that helps offset the card’s annual fee. They are often linked to specific types of purchases or services, such as travel or dining, and they provide a direct reduction in the cardholder’s annual fee.
On the other hand, rewards points are earned for each transaction made using the credit card. These points can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, including travel, merchandise, or statement credits. While annual credits reduce your card’s annual cost, rewards points offer you more flexibility in how you can benefit from your card usage. Some credit cards offer both annual credits and rewards points, providing a well-rounded package of financial benefits.
Can You Use Annual Credits for Any Purchase?
Annual credits are often tied to specific categories or expenses, so they may not be usable for just any purchase. For instance, a credit card with a travel credit may only allow you to apply the credit to airline-related expenses, such as baggage fees or in-flight purchases. Similarly, a dining credit is typically limited to eligible dining establishments.
It’s crucial to read your credit card’s terms and conditions to understand where and how you can use your annual credits. Being aware of these restrictions allows you to maximize the value of your credits. Additionally, some cards have certain restrictions on the timing of the credits (e.g., calendar year credits), so be sure to make purchases accordingly to take full advantage of the benefits.*
These FAQs provide further clarification on the differences between annual credits and reward points and address common questions about the usage of annual credits. Including them in the article will help readers gain a deeper understanding of credit card benefits and usage.
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