If you want to get the most out of your credit card, you need to collect as many points as possible. So what are credit card points? Points are a form of reward that can be redeemed for a number of benefits, including airline tickets, cash back, merchandise and more. Smart credit card users know how to maximize their points with every purchase. Here are some tips on how to maximize credit card points in Canada.

Want to get off to a good start when it comes to earning points with a credit card? Then apply for a credit card that offers a large number of points at the time of acceptance. In fact, some credit cards will give you over 50,000 points just for opening your account. However, you will need to have an excellent credit rating to qualify for these credit cards that offer a large welcome bonus.

There are ways to “hack” credit cards to get the most out of your purchases. For example, some cards will give you 5 times the points for airline-related purchases, while other cards will give you double points for online purchases at certain merchants. Be sure to use the cards that give you the most points for specific purchases to maximize your points.

Some cards require you to spend a certain amount of money before your points are counted. A smart way to reach the “reward points” threshold is tobuy a gift card from a place where you shop often. For example, if the minimum spending requirement for a credit card is $500 and you shop at Amazon often, all you have to do is purchase a $500 Amazon gift card, and you’re now ready to earn points.

Here’s a smart way to get a “2 for 1” offer or double your points. Some loyalty cards give you points in addition to your credit card. For example, if you have a grocery store loyalty card that gives you points, make sure you have that card handy when you shop. You will earn points with your loyalty card AND your credit card!

Did you know that shopping portals in Canada can give you miles and bonus points just for shopping with them? In fact, three Canadian shopping portals offer you a great opportunity to maximize your points every time you make a purchase:

• AIR MILESAirmilesshops.ca
• Air CanadaAeroplan e-store
• Rakuten

If you are planning to make a large purchase, such as a laptop or airline ticket, be sure to use your credit card to earn the maximum number of points. So you can get more rewards faster.

If you want the best shopping experience with your credit card, make sure you know the rules for earning points on your card. Each credit card has its own rules.

• Earnings caps – Some credit cards only allow you to earn a certain number of points during a billing period or year. Make sure you know the point accumulation limit of your card before making any new purchases.
• Rule Changes – From time to time, your credit card changes its rules regarding how points can be earned. By law, the credit card issuer must send you written or email notice of the rule changes. Be sure to check for any rule changes when they are published.
• Penalties – Your credit card may also have penalties that may include the loss of your points if your card is delinquent or if you cancel your card. If you plan to cancel your card, be sure to redeem all your points before doing so.
• Expiration of points – Almost all credit cards have an expiration date for their points. Make sure you know the expiration date of your points so you can redeem them before then.

Now that you know the many ways to make the most of credit card points rewards, here’s a look at some of the major credit cards that offer generous points rewards:

Become a smart shopper and you can earn many great rewards, from airfare upgrades to merchandise to cash back. Be sure to apply for the credit card that will maximize your points, and check the rules of any rewards program. You can check out milesopedia.com, the best website in Canada for loyalty programs and credit cards. Good spending!