This Week’s Money Map:

• 💳 Credit card points strategy (part III): Unlock hidden value with points transfers!

• 💵 Money hacks (part II): Underground money hacks that'll make your financial advisor jealous

• 🚙 Car insurance secrets (part II): More smart ways to save!

• 🎁 Thoughtful last-minute gifts (that don’t scream “I forgot!”)

• 🏠 Are you a renter? Here’s why the Bilt credit card may be for you

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💳 Credit card points strategy (part III): Unlock hidden value with points transfers!

Ready to stretch your points like never before? Points transfers are the secret sauce for maxing out their value. Sure, redeeming points for cash back or merchandise is easy, but it often gives you the least bang for your buck. Transferring points to airline or hotel loyalty programs is where the real magic happens.

Think of it like this: Redeeming 10,000 points may get you a $100 gift card, but transferring those same points to an airline could cover a $400 flight. Big difference! Let’s unlock the hidden power of your points:

How to Make Points Transfers Work for You:

1. Know your transfer partners: Cards with flexible points (like Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards and Citi ThankYou Points) offer transfers to various partners.

2. Look for transfer bonuses: Some programs offer transfer bonuses (e.g., 30% extra points when transferring to a specific airline). These can stretch your points further.

3. Research sweet spots: Some programs — like Avianca’s LifeMiles or Air Canada’s Aeroplan — have “sweet spots” where points go further on specific routes.

4. Book early for high-demand routes: If you’re using points for travel, booking early helps secure availability on popular routes.

Want more insider tips? Dive into how credit card points work and explore strategies for earning rewards. Make your points work harder and turn everyday purchases into exceptional adventures.

💵 Money hacks (part II): Underground money hacks that'll make your financial advisor jealous

Hungry for more wealth-building secrets? These next-level financial maneuvers are so clever they might make your accountant do a double-take:

Cash Back Cascade
Revolutionize your shopping in 2024 by stacking rewards systems. Combine apps like Cash App Boost (savings up to $300 annually) and Rakuten (6% average), and platforms like Ibotta or TopCashback to maximize rewards. One savvy shopper reported earning $1,432 quarterly through strategic spending.

Subscription Master Plan
Leverage family subscription plans for streaming services like Netflix, Spotify and Disney+ to cut entertainment costs by 65%. Sharing properly structured subscriptions can save you up to $1,200 annually, as highlighted in MoneyGeek’s budget-saving tips.

Bank Account Ladder Technique
Use online high-yield savings accounts (HYSAs) offering promotional rates — some as high as 5.75% APY. For a deeper dive into managing savings efficiently, check out MoneyGeek’s guide to budgeting apps.

Credit Card Rewards Arbitrage
Purchase discounted gift cards via Raise.com using rewards credit cards, then resell them for a profit. Combine this with strategies like travel credit card rewards to maximize perks.

Tax Loss Harvesting Hack
Tax-savvy investors use losses to offset gains. Platforms like Fidelity estimate an average tax saving of $1,550 through this method.

Whether it’s budgeting, cash back strategies or tax hacks, every master starts as a beginner. What’s your next move?

🚙 Car insurance secrets (part II): More smart ways to save!

Want to trim even more off your car insurance bill? It’s easier than you think with a few strategic moves. Pair these tips with early shopping and you’ll be on your way to saving big.

Bundle and Save
Do you have renters, homeowners or life insurance? Bundle them with your car insurance for a multi-policy discount. Many insurers knock off 10–25% when you combine coverage.

Raise Your Deductible
A higher deductible means lower premiums. If you have a solid emergency fund, increasing your deductible from $500 to $1,000 could save you up to 40%. Just be sure you’re comfortable covering the deductible if needed.

Choose the Right Coverage
Driving an older car? Skip comprehensive and collision coverage if the vehicle’s value doesn’t justify the cost. Learn about liability-only car insurance to see if it’s right for you.

Low Mileage Discounts
Drive less? Many insurers offer discounts for low mileage. Consider usage-based policies that monitor your driving habits and reward safe and infrequent drivers.

Keep Your Record Clean
Tickets and accidents spike your rates. Drive safely to maintain a spotless record and snag discounts for being a low-risk driver.

Check Discounts Regularly
Always ask your insurer about updated savings opportunities, from good student discounts to safe driver perks. Even small discounts can add up quickly.

Lowering your car insurance doesn’t have to be complicated. Check out MoneyGeek’s car insurance guide to explore more ways to save.

🎁 Thoughtful last-minute gifts (that don’t scream “I forgot!”)

Running out of time doesn’t mean running out of great ideas. These clever, classy and clutch gifts will make you look like the most thoughtful gift-giver ever — no one has to know you snagged them at the last minute!

For the Experience Enthusiast
Sometimes, the best gifts aren’t things — they’re unforgettable moments.
* Cooking class: Whether local or virtual, this hands-on gift lets them whip up something delicious.
* Hot air balloon ride: Give the gift of breathtaking views and a memorable adventure.
* Spa day: A SpaFinder voucher lets them pick their favorite pampering spot.

Wellness Wonders
These thoughtful picks help them relax, recharge and feel their best.
* Yoga or meditation app subscription: Apps like Headspace bring mindfulness to their fingertips.
* Essential oil diffuser: Create a calming, spa-like atmosphere at home.
* Acupressure mat: A unique way to relieve stress and tension.

Hobbies and Creative Pursuits
Gifts that inspire creativity and joy are always a hit.
* Gardening kit: Perfect for green thumbs or those ready to dig in for the first time.
* DIY jewelry kit: A fun, hands-on way to craft one-of-a-kind pieces.
* Art supplies: Paints, brushes and canvases for their next masterpiece.

Foodie Favorites
Because deliciousness is always in style.
* Gourmet food basket: Fill it with artisanal cheeses, chocolates or snacks.
* Wine and cheese set: Elevate their evenings with a perfect pairing.
* Meal kit subscription: Daily meal kits to make meal times easy and exciting.

Thoughtful gifts don’t have to take all your time — or break the bank. For more tips on smart holiday spending, check out MoneyGeek’s holiday budgeting guide.

🏠 Are you a renter? Here’s why the Bilt credit card may be for you

Paying rent might feel like tossing money into a black hole every month. Enter the Bilt World Elite Mastercard — a game-changer for renters looking to get more out of those rent payments. Here’s why this card deserves your attention:

• Earn Rewards on Your Rent: The Bilt Card is one of the few credit cards that lets you earn points on rent without any fees. You can earn up to 1 point per dollar on rent payments (up to 50,000 points annually). Imagine finally getting something back just for paying rent!

• Perks Beyond Rent: You can use the Bilt card for everyday spending, too. Earn 3X points on dining, 2X on travel and 1X on other purchases. You can then redeem points for travel, fitness classes and even a down payment for your future home.

• Build Your Credit: Regular, on-time payments help build your credit, setting you up for better loan rates and financial opportunities. 

Ready to get more from paying your rent? Check out MoneyGeek's guide to paying rent with a credit card and start earning rewards.

Smart Cents gives you actionable tips and mindset shifts to help you reach your financial happy place. Thanks for being a part of our community.

The MoneyGeek Team

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