Despite the popularity of credit cards with reward programs, many credit card holders still end up with credit cards that do not give back anything at all. If you own a reward credit card, can you really say that you are satisfied with the reward program it offers? Surprisingly, many people with reward credit cards haven’t been reaping the rewards they expected when they first signed up.

What could be the reason for such disappointment? Can a credit card’s reward program really make or break it? What can you do to make sure that the next time you sign up for a reward credit card, you will really get the benefits that you deserve? Let’s try to answer these questions one at a time.

Collecting Your Reward Points

Let’s face it; you only get to earn rewards from a reward credit card if you use it as often as you could. Still, most reward credit cards do not award points for all types of purchases. In most cases, you are only entitled to earn points if you purchase from affiliate shops and establishments. But most of the time, these “affiliates” are actually high-end shops where purchases are generally expensive. If you don’t shop from these establishments, there’s no chance you can collect those points as well.

Some people get a travel reward credit card thinking that they can get that free travel ticket to their destination the easy way. But is this true? Typical travel reward credit cards give points from airline purchases, car rental fees, and hotel accommodations bills that you charge to your card. Although some travel reward credit cards give points for general purchases, these equivalent points are usually very small that you need to charge really big purchases before you start racking up those miles points. Thus, if you’re not really a frequent traveler, it’s better to stick with a reward credit card that has a simpler reward system.

Obviously, whether or not you benefit from your reward credit card depends on the reward program you choose. No matter how attractive the reward offers are, always get the one that matches your spending habits and lifestyle.

Make it or Break It

If you currently own a reward credit card that doesn’t do much for you, the lesson is, never sign up for a credit card without exploring all your possible options. Read the fine print. You need to take the time to understand what is included in your credit card agreement before you actually fill up and submit your credit card application.

Don’t get too excited about the amazing reward offers that you read in the ads. Check out the interest rate that you’ll be paying if you fail to keep up with your balance. Check the annual fee, the penalty costs and the specific terms of the reward program.

Finally, a reward credit card will only work for you if you know how to handle it correctly. Don’t charge huge expenses on your credit card just for the purpose of getting the reward. Keep in mind that you will be responsible for all expenses you charge to your card. If you can’t pay them on time, you end up paying for the additional interest rate and penalty cost which defeats your purpose for getting a reward credit card in the first place- that is to be rewarded and get something good from your credit card use.