Consumers have become accustomed to reward points and bonus miles when making charges to their credit cards. These have been very generous in the past, but many are coming with more restrictions these days. Fewer points are being given today, and purchases through reward programs have become extremely expensive. They can, however, still be profitable if you use them wisely.

One of the best things you can do is change to a cash-back card. These are much less cost intensive for the issuer so you generally get more value in return for his lower expenses.

Be certain that you are dealing with a reputable and established issuer. Many people have joined programs that required long waiting periods before they were allowed to use their reward points. When the time came, the program folded and the cardholders were left with nothing. Be sure that any program you join allows you to cash in your points whenever you want to use them.

Many cards award additional bonus points for certain categories, such as gas stations. Be sure you choose a card where the categories match the type of businesses you patronize most.

Do not use your reward points to purchase merchandise from the catalogs. They are always overpriced when you calculate the value of the item versus the points you are paying. Redeeming points for gift cards can be a much more profitable move. In many instances you will get enough money to purchase the item you wanted and have funds left over for another purchase.