Did you know that 23% of credit card rewards go unused? That’s free money or perks left on the table! Beyond points and cash back, many cards come with hidden benefits that can save you money, offer peace of mind, and even upgrade your lifestyle.
Here are 25 surprising credit card perks you might be overlooking. Don’t let these opportunities go to waste.
1. Purchase & Return Protection
Purchase protection covers items you buy with your card if they’re damaged, stolen, or lost within a set period (usually up to 90 days), allowing for a refund or replacement. (ref)
Return protection helps if a store won’t accept a return. If you can’t return an item within the store’s window, your card issuer may refund you. Keep your receipts and review your card’s terms and coverage.
2. Cash Back on Utilities
Some credit cards offer cash back on everyday expenses, including utility bills like electricity, water, and gas.
You can earn a percentage of what you spend on these bills, which adds up over time. Check if your card offers cash back on utilities, as it’s an easy way to save money on monthly payments.
3. Price Protection
Price protection is a benefit that allows you to get reimbursed if you buy something and later find it at a lower price.
If this happens within a certain period (often 60-120 days), your credit card issuer may refund you the difference. This benefit is especially useful when you make big purchases or shop online.
4. Extended Warranty
When you buy items like electronics, appliances, or gadgets with your credit card, your card might automatically extend the manufacturer’s warranty.
For example, if the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty, your credit card might extend it for another year or more. This gives you extra peace of mind in case the item breaks down after the standard warranty expires.
5. Free FICO Credit Score
Many credit cards offer you free access to your FICO credit score. This is a tool to help you keep track of your credit health and spot any issues before they become problems.
Knowing your score can help you make better financial decisions, like whether to apply for a loan or adjust your spending habits. Check your online account for this feature.
6. No Foreign Transaction Fees
When you travel abroad, you might have noticed extra fees on your purchases. These are called foreign transaction fees, and they can add up quickly.
But with some credit cards, these fees are waived, meaning you can use your card internationally without paying those extra charges. (ref)
If you travel frequently, this can save you a lot of money. Check if your card offers this perk, especially if it’s a travel-focused or premium card.
7. Travel Cancellation & Interruption Insurance
Travel cancellation and interruption insurance can be a lifesaver if your trip is unexpectedly canceled or interrupted.
If you need to cancel or cut your trip short for reasons like illness, bad weather, or other emergencies, this insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses like flight tickets, hotel bookings, and tours.
It’s important to read your card’s policy for the specific situations that are covered and the details of how to file a claim.
8. Travel Accident Insurance
Travel accident insurance offers coverage if you get injured or pass away while traveling. If you’re using your credit card to book your flights, hotel stays, or other travel expenses, this benefit can provide you with compensation if something goes wrong during your trip.
It can help cover medical costs, loss of life, or permanent injuries. Be sure to check the terms and conditions of your card to understand how it works and what is covered during your travels.
9. Statement Credits for Travel Expenses
Statement credits for travel expenses can help you save on things like flights, hotels, or car rentals.
When you make travel-related purchases with your credit card, you might receive a statement credit that reimburses you for part of the cost. This can make your trips more affordable and help you get the most out of your credit card rewards.
10. Baggage Delay Insurance
Baggage delay insurance can help cover the cost of buying essential items if your luggage is delayed while traveling. If your bags don’t arrive on time, this insurance can reimburse you for necessities like clothes and toiletries until your bags are returned.
This benefit is especially helpful if your bags are delayed for more than a few hours. Check your card’s terms to see how long the delay must be before you can file a claim and what items are covered.
11. Lost Luggage Insurance
If your luggage is lost or delayed during travel, some credit cards offer specialized insurance to help cover the cost of replacing essential items like clothes or toiletries. This can be especially helpful if your luggage is delayed for an extended period, so you don’t have to buy everything at full price.
Make sure to check your card’s travel benefits to see if it includes this type of coverage, and be sure to understand how long the delay must be for you to qualify for a claim.
12. Rental Car Discounts
Many credit cards offer discounts when you rent a car, especially if you use your card to pay for the rental. These discounts can save you money on your rental fees, helping you reduce the cost of your trip.
Some cards even have partnerships with major car rental companies, giving you access to special deals. If you rent cars frequently, it’s worth checking if your card offers this perk to help cut down on travel expenses.
13. Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
When you rent a car, the rental company often offers you the option to buy insurance to cover damages. However, if you use your credit card to pay for the rental, your card might offer a collision damage waiver (CDW) that covers the cost of damages if the car is in an accident or gets stolen. (ref)
This can save you the extra cost of purchasing the rental company’s insurance. Be sure to check your card’s specific rules to know what’s covered and what’s not, such as whether the benefit applies to rentals abroad.
14. Airport Lounge Access
If you travel often, you might appreciate the perk of airport lounge access. Many premium credit cards offer complimentary access to exclusive lounges in airports.
These lounges provide a relaxing place to wait for your flight, with comfortable seating, free snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and sometimes even showers.
Instead of waiting in crowded terminals, you can enjoy a more peaceful and comfortable experience. Check if your card includes access to lounges through programs like Priority Pass or the American Express Centurion Lounge.
15. Complimentary Concierge Services
Some credit cards offer concierge services to make your life easier, especially when traveling or organizing events. Whether you need help booking a last-minute dinner reservation, finding tickets to a concert, or arranging a special gift, your credit card’s concierge service can help.
This is a personal assistant available to you 24/7, often at no extra charge. Simply call the number on the back of your card to access this service and take advantage of their expertise and resources.
16. Cell Phone Protection
Cell phone protection is a benefit that many credit cards offer, helping you save money on repair or replacement costs if your phone gets damaged or stolen. To qualify, you usually need to pay your monthly cell phone bill with your credit card.
If something happens to your phone, your card may cover the repair or replacement costs, saving you from having to pay the full price for a new one. Make sure to read the terms and conditions to understand the coverage limits and how to file a claim.
17. Identity Theft Assistance
Identity theft assistance is a service that helps protect you if someone steals your personal information. If your identity is compromised, your credit card issuer may offer support, such as helping you report the theft, freezing your credit, or monitoring your accounts.
Some cards even offer identity theft protection tools, like alerts if suspicious activity is detected. This benefit can give you peace of mind, knowing that there’s support available if something happens.
18. Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance helps if your car breaks down, offering services like towing, battery jump-starts, or flat tire changes.
This can be especially helpful if you’re in an unfamiliar area or don’t have an auto club membership. Be sure to check what’s covered with your card, as different cards offer different levels of service.
19. Free Shipping & Online Shopping Benefits
Some credit cards offer perks like free shipping on online purchases, especially when you use your card to pay. Some cards also offer exclusive discounts or early access to sales, helping you get the best deals.
These benefits can save you money and give you an advantage while shopping online, so make sure to take advantage of them when you can.
20. Sports & Events Special Access
If you love attending live events, your credit card might offer special access to tickets. This can include early ticket sales, exclusive presale codes, or access to VIP events and experiences.
Whether it’s a concert, sports game, or theater performance, having access to these events before the general public can give you the best seats or opportunities. Check your card for any partnerships or event-specific offers that can enhance your entertainment experience.
21. Annual Fee Waiver Programs
Some credit cards offer an annual fee waiver, which means you won’t have to pay the usual yearly fee for using the card. This benefit might apply if you meet certain spending requirements or use the card in specific ways.
For example, if you spend a certain amount within the first few months of getting the card, the issuer might waive your annual fee for the first year.
22. Health & Wellness Discounts
Many credit cards offer discounts on health and wellness-related services. This can include gym memberships, fitness classes, wellness programs, or even discounts on health products.
If you’re focused on staying healthy, using a credit card that offers these benefits can help you save on memberships or activities you already use. Be sure to check your card’s terms to see if it partners with any fitness centers or wellness brands to get these discounts.
23. Dining Credits at Eligible Restaurants
Some credit cards offer dining credits, which are essentially a set amount of money that you can use at certain restaurants. This can be a great way to save when eating out, especially at popular or higher-end places.
Depending on your card, you may receive dining credits monthly or annually, which can be used at select restaurants for in-person or delivery orders. Check your card’s dining benefits for details on participating restaurants and how to use the credit.
24. Subscription Service Rebates
If you subscribe to services like Netflix, Spotify, or other streaming platforms, some credit cards offer rebates to cover part or all of the subscription costs. This is an excellent way to save on entertainment, especially if you already pay for these services regularly.
Check your card’s rewards or benefits page to see if it offers a subscription rebate and how you can apply it to your monthly service charges.
25. Pet-Related Discounts
If you’re a pet owner, you may be able to save money on pet-related expenses with certain credit cards. These benefits could include discounts on pet products, pet insurance, or even veterinary services.
Some cards may also offer coverage in case your pet gets injured or lost while traveling. If your pet is important to you, check your card’s benefits to see if it provides any pet-related perks to make caring for your furry friend more affordable.
So, make sure to check your card’s terms and take full advantage of the benefits available to you. When used wisely, these perks can help you save money, earn more rewards, and make your life a little easier.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.