- 1). Select and apply for one of American Express' card offerings that yield reward points. Use the comparison chart (see Resources) to evaluate which card best fits your spending and reward habits. American Express reward cards include the Blue product, which accumulates points more slowly but comes with no annual fee, and the Gold, Green and Platinum versions that allow for faster accumulation but come with an annual fee of up to several hundred dollars. If you don't plan to spend much on the credit card, opt for the Blue product. If you spend a lot annually and would find value from the travel benefits and other bonuses, spring for one of the cards with a fee.
- 2). Consolidate as much of your spending as possible onto your American Express card. Even if you have rewards programs from other credit card issuers, you dilute their effectiveness when you spread your spending across several cards. Look for recurring expenses that you must pay regularly, such as your cellular phone or cable bills, and see if you can set up payments for those through your American Express card.
- 3). Get American Express cards for your spouse, college-age children or anyone else in your family for whom you pay credit card bills. American Express will allow you to link multiple cards to a single rewards account, so you'll accrue points faster.
- 4). Monitor American Express' website for reward accumulation specials. One special in 2009, for example, allows users to get double points when buying gas or groceries at certain retailers. Sign up for these bonuses when they fit with your spending patterns, but be vigilant of hidden fees or requirements that will counter the benefit of the extra rewards points.
- 5). Track your spending and American Express card statements for errors to make sure you're getting every point you've earned. Alert American Express customer service of any discrepancy. Some accounting software brands, such as Quicken, allow you directly to track credit card reward points.
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