Every month, valuable perks tied to your credit cards quietly expire, leaving money on the table. It’s easy to lose track, especially with multiple cards vying for your attention. This isn’t about complex strategies; it’s about reclaiming benefits you’ve already earned.
Many rewards cards offer a stream of monthly statement credits designed to offset annual fees. American Express, in particular, structures many of its perks this way, delivering value incrementally rather than in one lump sum. But these credits aren’t automatic – and they’re often “use it or lose it.”
The American Express Platinum Card is a prime example. Each month presents opportunities for up to $25 in digital entertainment credits, covering streaming services like Disney+, Hulu, and Peacock. A separate $15 Uber Cash credit awaits, alongside up to $12.95 for a Walmart+ membership and $9.99 for Uber One. Don’t forget the biannual $300 credits for Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings.
For business owners, the American Express Business Platinum Card offers its own set of monthly advantages. Expect up to $50 quarterly for Hilton purchases, $10 for wireless service, and a substantial $1,150 in Dell statement credits spread throughout the year. These benefits are designed to significantly reduce the card’s annual fee.
The American Express Gold Card provides a different flavor of monthly rewards. Cardholders can utilize up to $100 annually in Resy credits, split into two $50 installments. A consistent $10 Uber Cash credit and up to $10 in dining credits at select restaurants add further value. Through October 30, a one-time $96 credit is available for an Uber One membership.
The American Express Business Gold Card offers up to $20 in flexible business statement credits each month, applicable to purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and office supply stores. This consistent benefit helps offset the card’s annual fee and provides tangible savings for business expenses.
Delta SkyMiles cardholders also have monthly perks to consider. Depending on the card, you can receive statement credits for U.S. restaurant purchases through Resy, and for ride-hailing services like Lyft and Uber. These credits vary in amount depending on the specific Delta card you hold.
The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card offers up to $200 in statement credits for Hilton Resorts purchases, split into two $200 installments. Additionally, cardholders can receive up to $50 in flight statement credits each quarter. These benefits are designed to enhance the Hilton experience and provide substantial savings.
The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card provides up to $50 in statement credits each quarter for purchases at Hilton properties. This benefit, along with the Business version’s $60 quarterly credit, makes these cards particularly valuable for frequent Hilton guests.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant cardholders enjoy up to $25 in monthly dining statement credits worldwide, automatically applied with eligible purchases. This consistent benefit adds significant value for those who frequently dine out.
Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders have a variety of monthly credits available. These include up to $500 in statement credits through Chase’s The Edit hotels, $20 in DoorDash non-restaurant credits, $10 in Lyft credits, and $5 in DoorDash restaurant credits. Careful utilization of these credits can significantly offset the card’s annual fee.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business card mirrors many of the benefits of its personal counterpart, offering similar credits for hotels, DoorDash, and Lyft. These credits are designed to provide value for business travelers and diners.
Chase Sapphire Preferred cardholders can take advantage of $10 monthly DoorDash credits and a $50 annual hotel credit through Chase Travel. These benefits add value for those who frequently order takeout or book hotels through the Chase portal.
Even older Chase cards like Freedom and Freedom Flex offer rotating 5% cash back categories each quarter, requiring activation to maximize earnings. Plus, a $10 monthly DoorDash credit is available with a DashPass membership.
U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Cardholders can earn 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter, up to $2,000 in spending. Remember to activate your chosen categories to unlock the bonus cash back.
Citi cards also offer valuable monthly benefits. The Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard provides $10 monthly Lyft credits and $10 in Grubhub statement credits. The Citi Dividend Card offers 5% cash back on rotating categories, requiring activation each quarter.
Discover it Cash Back cardholders can earn 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter, up to $1,500 in spending. Activation is key to unlocking these bonus rewards.
Don’t let these monthly benefits slip through the cracks. Regularly reviewing your card perks and setting reminders can ensure you’re maximizing your rewards and minimizing unnecessary expenses. A little attention each month can translate into significant savings over the year.
