Credit card rewards programs

It started with those frequent flyer credit cards and now you can get a reward for just about anything. There are gas reward cards, coffee reward cards and even pet supply reward cards. It’s giving me a headache. Are they any good?

In a new survey, it seems more than half the moms of Disney Rewards Visa cards haven’t even used their points. Some couldn’t figure out the rewards they were due and others were just ticked off at the restrictions the card carries. It’s not easy to redeem most of the rewards out there and it’s up to you to pursue it.

To encourage new customers, American Express is automatically sending an Amex shopping card as soon as they rack up enough points. Amazon also has a free $25 gift card when customers get their 2500 points.

Problem is a lot of customers say they aren’t getting the cards, even though Amazon says they are sending them out. Many customers ask why you can’t get them online, since that’s where you are accruing points. Who knows, but Amazon did say they were sending vouchers in plain envelopes to evidently deter thievery. What they seem to deter is claiming your rightful rewards.

All I know is, this year my family took a vacation to California and flew for $12 in fees for what would have cost over $1,000. Some times old works better.