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Is the Points Era Maxed Out?

Remember when the check came, and everyone raced to put down their card, pay for the bill, Venmo the group later… and pocket all the points?

The Chase Sapphire Reserve — with its flex travel and dining perks, plus that absurd 100,000-point sign-up bonus — was the first millennial “it” card. Amex Platinum was shaking.

Fast-forward to now, and the golden era of “I got this” is winding down. The Sapphire Reserve’s fee just jumped to $795. Rumor has it Amex will do the same for Platinum cardholders. Your friend that swears her card “pays for itself” is not well.

Which isn’t to say high-end cards aren’t worth it — but now, people care less about the “plunk factor” and more about whether the perks actually match how they spend.

Here’s how to think about what’s in your wallet…

• Consider downgrading instead of canceling. It’ll have a minimal impact on your credit score. Just read the fine print on what happens to your points.

• Skip the mental math. A no-annual-fee cash-back card can still earn you rewards. Compare them here.

• Audit your perks. High-end cards have everything from airport lounge access to Peloton credits –– if you opt in. Make sure you’re taking full advantage.

— Anna “Still Love a Good Plunk Factor, Though” Davies, Writer 

PS: Skimm Money will be in your inbox every other Monday from now on. See you on the 21st.

Read More

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• How to Afford Three Destination Trips a Year On a $50k Salary

• This Small Business Owner is Using Points to Cover … Tariff Costs?

Is the Points Era Maxed Out?

Remember when the check came, and everyone raced to put down their card, pay for the bill, Venmo the group later… and pocket all the points?

The Chase Sapphire Reserve became the first millennial “it” card by offering flex travel and dining perks, plus an insane 100,000 point sign-up bonus — for a $450 annual fee. Amex was shaking. 

That era seems to be winding down. The Sapphire Reserve just hiked its annual fee to $795, and Amex seems likely to do the same for Platinum cardholders soon. That friend who says her card “pays for itself!” is not OK.

Which isn’t to say high-end cards aren’t worth it — just that people may feel more empowered to choose the one or two that actually work for the way that they spend, rather than for the “plunk factor.”

Here’s how to think about what’s in your wallet…

• Consider downgrading instead of canceling. This will have minimal impact on your credit score, and you may even be able to keep your credit line. Just read the fine print on what happens to your points.

• Skip the mental math. A no-annual-fee cash-back card can still earn you rewards –– no dynamic spreadsheet required. Compare them here.

• Audit your perks. High-end cards have everything from airport lounge access to credits on your Peloton subscription… if you opt in. Here’s how to make sure you’re taking advantage.

— Anna “Still Love a Good Plunk Factor, Though” Davies, Writer 

Read More

• How to Actually Get Free Flights With Points

• And the "Sexiest New Long-Haul Flight" Goes To…

• How to Afford Three Destination Trips a Year On a $50k Salary

• This Small Business Owner is Using Points to Cover … Tariff Costs?

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Most Affordable 

GreenPan Rio Ceramic Nonstick 8" and 10" Frypan Set ($34.99 at Walmart)

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