The Ultimate Guide to Maximizing Points at Gas Stations
To the Point
When it comes to maximizing your rewards at the gas pump, having the right card can be a total game changer! Most of the cards are optimized for cash back, so for the majority of the year, some of the best cards will only earn 1.5x to 2.0x. However, for Q3 2024, the Chase Freedom Flex is a game-changer!
With its 5% cash back on gas station purchases this quarter, you’re not just earning cash back—you’re earning it in the form of valuable Ultimate Rewards points. And when you pair those points with a Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve card, you unlock a world of possibilities.
Imagine turning your routine gas station stops into luxury travel experiences! Plus, if you go to Shell for your fuel needs, there’s also an opportunity to stack these points with American Airlines AAdvantage miles through the Shell Fuel Rewards program. Let’s dive into how you can make every gallon work harder for you.
1. Why Gas Station Spending is a Goldmine for Points
Gas station purchases are an essential part of everyday life, and credit card companies know this. That’s why many of them offer lucrative rewards for spending at the pump. Whether you’re using points for travel, merchandise, or cash back, every trip to the gas station can bring you one step closer to your reward goals.
2. The Best Credit Cards for Gas Purchases
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the top credit cards for maximizing your gas station purchases:
Chase Freedom Flex℠
Earning Rate: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter (after activation).
Current Bonus Category: From July 1, 2024 - September 30, 2024, gas station purchases are one of the eligible categories.
How to Activate: Visit the Chase Ultimate Rewards page, use the Chase Mobile App, or call the number on the back of your card. Activation is required each quarter.
Note: While the 5% cash back is appealing, remember that this is only in Q3 2024. Generally, I’ll use the Chase Freedom Unlimited for 1.5x points or the Capital One Venture X for 2x points on all purchases, as these points can be transferred to travel partners for even greater value.
3. American Airlines Teams Up with Shell and the Fuel Rewards® Program
If you’re an American Airlines AAdvantage® member, here’s another way to stack your rewards at the pump:
Earn 3 AAdvantage® miles for every gallon of Shell fuel you purchase.
Here’s how it works:
Join the AAdvantage program if you’re not already a member.
Link your AAdvantage account to your Fuel Rewards account.
Ensure your Fuel Rewards account name matches your AAdvantage account.
Earn 3 miles per gallon of Shell fuel purchased at participating locations.
Bonus: AAdvantage members can earn 250 AAdvantage miles when they join Fuel Rewards.
Important Note: When you choose to earn AAdvantage miles, you’ll forfeit your Gold or Silver status fuel savings. However, for avid travelers, earning miles may be more valuable in the long run.
Stacking Tip: You can combine the 3x AAdvantage miles from Shell with the 5% cash back on gas purchases from the Chase Freedom Flex℠ to double-dip your rewards.
4. How to Activate the Chase Freedom Flex’s 5% Cash Back
The Chase Freedom Flex stands out for its rotating bonus categories; this quarter, gas stations are where you’ll want to focus your spending. To make sure you’re earning the total 5% cash back, you’ll need to activate the bonus category. Here’s how:
Online: Go to Chase Ultimate Rewards and log in to your account.
Chase Mobile App: If you have the app, tap to activate.
Phone: Call the number on the back of your card to activate.
In-Person: Visit any Chase branch or ATM to activate your bonus category.
5. Pro Tips to Maximize Your Gas Station Rewards
Plan Your Purchases: If you know you’re going to hit the $1,500 spending cap, consider maxing it out and then continue the Chase Freedom Unlimited for 1.5x points or the Capital One Venture X.
Stack with Fuel Rewards Programs: Many gas stations have their own loyalty programs. Use these in conjunction with your credit card rewards for even greater savings.
Don’t Forget Your Partner Cards: If you also hold a Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, you can combine your Ultimate Rewards points and maximize your redemption value by transferring points to travel partners like Hyatt, United, or one of the many other travel transfer partners.
6. Additional Ways to Save at the Pump
In addition to using the right credit card, consider these extra ways to save on gas:
Use Mobile Payment Apps: Some gas stations offer discounts when you pay through their mobile apps.
Join Fuel Rewards Programs: Programs like Shell Fuel Rewards can help you save a few cents per gallon, which adds up over time.
Use Cashback Apps: Apps like Dosh or Rakuten often have additional cash-back offers for gas station purchases.
7. Final Thoughts: Fill Up Your Tank and Your Rewards Balance
Gas stations might not seem like the most glamorous place to earn rewards, but with the right strategy, you can turn every trip into a chance to maximize your points and cash back. The Chase Freedom Flex is the standout choice this quarter, but remember to leverage other cards and rewards programs like American Airlines’ partnership with Shell to ensure you’re getting the most value out of every fill-up.
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Note: All information has been collected independently by The Points Passport and has not been reviewed by the issuer.