Couples Can Do This to Earn More Credit Card Points and Miles

Credit card rewards are a popular way for people to save money. By using rewards credit cards, you can earn cash back, points, and miles when you spend money with your cards. If you're partnered up, it can be easier to accumulate rewards. The simple strategy outlined below allows couples to earn points and miles more quickly with rewards credit cards.

Each person can apply for the same credit card

A popular way for rewards credit card users to earn points and miles quickly is by opening new credit card accounts. Many credit card issuers promote welcome offers to new cardholders. You'll qualify for the welcome offer if you open a new credit card and meet the minimum spending requirement within the time frame. This is a great way to earn points and miles more rapidly.

But did you know that couples can earn double points and miles? Each person can open a credit card and work to meet the minimum spending requirement to earn the welcome offer. Some couples even choose to get the same credit card if it has a generous welcome offer. Many credit card rewards enthusiasts refer to this strategy as "two-player mode."

You may want to consider this strategy if you and your partner are trying to earn cash back, miles, or points more quickly. But consider how opening and using new credit cards will impact your finances and credit scores. It's also essential to think about whether you'll realistically be able to meet the minimum spending requirement.

While this strategy can be useful, you should never spend money with a credit card unless you can afford to pay off your balance each month, as you'll be charged interest if you carry a balance on your credit card. Credit card interest is expensive and can add up quickly. You can avoid credit card interest fees and stay out of credit card debt by paying your entire statement balance every month.

Other strategies to earn points and miles faster

While couples can benefit by using the strategy above, there are other ways to earn points and miles quickly -- regardless of whether you're single or in a partnership. Here are a few tips to help you reach your credit card rewards goals sooner.

• Use shopping portals: If you like to earn credit card rewards, don't forget to use shopping portals when shopping online. Portals like Shop through Chase allow you to earn extra rewards in addition to any rewards earned by spending with your credit card.
• Be strategic when making large purchases: Time spendy purchases, like a new appliance or a pricey plane ticket, to earn a welcome offer quickly. If you can apply for a credit card shortly before making a big purchase like this, it'll be easier to earn credit card rewards quickly.
• Use the right credit card: Another tip is to be strategic about which credit card you use to pay for your purchases. For example, if you have a dining and restaurant credit card that rewards you with 4 points for every $1 spent, you'll want to use that credit card when you order takeout or dine out. Using a credit card that only offers 2 points for every $1 on all purchases wouldn't make sense for this type of expense.

Credit card rewards are valuable and can be a great addition to your personal finance strategy. If you already use credit cards to pay for everyday purchases, don't miss out on rewards opportunities. Check out our list of the best travel cards to learn how to earn travel rewards.