Did you know that you can get free airline miles or free cash rewards on top of the rewards offered by the card itself just by signing up for one of multiple free programs available? There are a few options out there, but I am going to focus on the Rewards Network program as it is the program that I use personally.
The way it works is simple. Just visit RewardsNetwork.com and sign up for a free account. Once you do this you can add multiple debit and credit card information to your account. Whenever you use your credit or debit card at a Rewards Network participating establishment you get cash back automatically credited to your account. All it takes is a few minutes to sign up and you'll be saving money at any number of bars, restaurants, clubs, hotels, etc.
Alternately, if you prefer frequent flier mile rewards in lieu of cash back you can visit one of the Rewards Network's airline affiliate sites (listed below). Keep in mind that although you can sign up for multiple accounts through Rewards Network and Rewards Network's airline affiliate sites, a credit or debit card can only be assigned to one account at any time.
- American Airlines – AAdvantage Dining
- Northwest Airlines – Dining For Miles
- Delta Airlines – SkyMiles Dining
- United Airlines – Mileage Plus Dining
- U.S. Airways – Dividend Miles Dining
The Savings
The savings are quite high (averaging from 5% to 10% of the transaction through RewardsNetwork.com, a bit less through the airline affiliate's sites), and it's definitely worth it since the savings are automatic and hassle-free. Combine these savings with a complementary cash-back credit card such as the American Express Costco TrueEarnings Card (3% back at restaurants) and you could be saving up to 13% on your transaction!
