Reward, Rebate and Travel credit cards include bank credit cards offering points, rebates, travel rewards, cash-back, and other discounts or perks based on your purchases or account activity.

Common examples of rewards cards include; travel cards offering airline, hotel, car rental or other rewards; rewards cards offering rebates and points redeemable for merchandise and services; and rebate and cash-back cards offering money back on a percentage of your purchases.

Some of these cards may also offer the added benefits of low-interest rates and additional premium card-member benefits. And, if you're good at paying off your balance in full each month and managing your account carefully, these cards can be a steal!

Before you apply - a few important factors to consider...

• Rewards may be granted only on qualified purchases, which may be limited only to certain dollar amounts, purchases made at specific merchants, or certain kinds of purchases. However, some cards may generously offer double- or more points for purchases made with specific merchants, purchases over a certain dollar amount, or rewards just for signing up.
• Points may expire, or may be difficult to use. Some points may only be redeemable with certain merchants or for a limited list of rewards. However, more and more rewards cards are offering non-expiring, easy-to-redeem rewards. Do your homework to make sure the rewards you earn are rewards you can put to use.
• These cards may charge an annual fee or higher interest rate in exchange for superior rewards. Make sure the added expense is worth what you'll gain in rewards, perks or services.
• Don't sign up for a card offering rewards you don't need or won't use. Some additional options and rewards offered by card issuers are neither valuable nor money-saving. Some may cost more than they're worth to you. Consider the details carefully before signing up.
• Introductory rates are usually short-term offers, lasting anywhere from a couple of months to a full year. Introductory rates may apply only to new purchases, balance transfers, or if you're lucky, both. Be sure to note any special conditions or fees that may apply to these promotional rates. Also, be aware that the long-term rates shown generally apply only to new purchases; interest rates for balance transfers and cash advances may vary.
• Note whether the APR is variable or fixed. Most cards have variable rates, which means the rate can fluctuate regularly. Fixed-rates can also be raised when interest rates climb, but the changes will not occur regularly and require at least 15 days notice from the card issuer.
• Be aware of annual fees, balance transfer fees, foreign transaction fees, over-the-limit fees, late payment fees, and the myriad of other fees that may apply. Check with your issuer and carefully read the fine print of the offer to determine these numbers and avoid any unpleasant surprises!