Earning credit card rewards on subscription and streaming services
Quick insights
- While streaming platforms generally don't have their own loyalty programs, you might still earn rewards on these purchases by paying with the right credit card.
- Some credit cards offer elevated points or cash back specifically for digital subscriptions and streaming services.
- If your credit card doesn't offer subscription services as a bonus category, using a flat-rate rewards card could help you earn a consistent return on your everyday entertainment.
Many households pay for multiple digital subscriptions each month, from music apps to video platforms. These individual charges may add up to a larger sum over time. By paying these recurring bills with a rewards credit card, you might be able to earn valuable points or cash back on your everyday streaming services.
Credit cards with elevated streaming rewards
When deciding which credit card to use for your digital subscriptions, you might consider reviewing your current benefits. Some credit cards offer elevated returns specifically for streaming purchases and subscription services.
For example, a credit card might offer bonus points when you spend on eligible streaming services, compared to the standard rate on other purchases. Routing your monthly bills through a credit card with these specific bonus categories could help you accumulate credit card points without changing your viewing habits.
Additionally, some credit cards feature quarterly rotating categories that offer a higher cash back percentage on specific types of purchases for a limited time. Popular streaming and subscription services are sometimes included in these rotating offers. When they are, you might consider updating your payment method to get cash back from streaming services at that higher rate during that quarter.
It may be helpful to note that each credit card issuer defines streaming categories differently. You might consider checking your rewards program details to see which specific music or video platforms qualify for elevated returns.
If you don't have a credit card that offers elevated rewards on subscriptions, you might consider paying with a credit card that offers cash back on everyday purchases. This approach allows you to earn a steady percentage back on many of your recurring entertainment costs.
You might also consider checking your credit card's shopping portal or mobile app for special promotions. Activating these limited-time merchant offers could provide an opportunity to stack your rewards and earn additional cash back or bonus points on your streaming subscriptions.
Setting up automatic payments
To help you consistently earn rewards on your subscriptions, you might consider setting up automatic payments with your preferred credit card. This approach may help you avoid missed billing cycles while steadily building your rewards balance.
By linking your streaming accounts to a credit card that offers elevated returns on subscriptions, you may accumulate points or cash back when your service renews. Reviewing your statements regularly could also help you track your earnings and confirm that your subscriptions are coding correctly for those bonus categories.
In conclusion
Whether you use a credit card with elevated streaming categories, rotating quarterly bonuses or a flat-rate return, your payment method could make a difference. Consider reviewing your credit card benefits to find a way to earn points or cash back on your streaming services.
