Well, last year's deal is back, but not quite as sweet this time around. Anybody who signs up and is accepted for the American Express Gold Card from OPEN will receive enough points for 25,000 frequent flier miles (redeemable at airlines such as Continental, Delta, etc.) or a free round-trip pass within the U.S. (on Southwest Airlines).

Last time around it only required one purchase in order to get your 25,000 points. I signed up for two and received two free passes. This time around you get 5,000 points for signing up, but must spend at least $1,000 in the first three months in order to be credited the other 20,000 points. So, not quite as good, but you're still getting the equivalent of over 25% back on your purchases up to $1,000 (if you figure that the plane ticket is worth at least $250, which is usually true).

You get the first year of card membership free, after which they'll bill you $125 a year for membership. Is it worth the $125/year? Not to me, and not to most people (it's only a 1% cash back card after all). Make sure to cancel it before twelve months is up.

It is technically a business card, but just use your name as the business name and you will have no problem signing up. My college-student little sister with very little credit history signed up and was accepted, so they aren't too stringent in giving these things away.

As I said, my family, friends, and I have done this deal before and it is definitely legit. Just remember to redeem your points and cancel the card before the first year is up (put a reminder on your calendar).

To apply, click here, then select 'Small Business' on the top menu. The Gold Card from OPEN is listed to the left in the 'Featured Cards' menu.