Tools, tips, and tricks for the tactical consumer.
Starwood’s annual category “adjustments” were released today and, as usual, more properties moved up a category (i.e., became more expensive) than down a category (became less expensive). The new categories become effective on March 5, so you can … [Continue reading]
The best credit cards earn flexible points, and by that I mean points that can be transferred to a variety of different loyalty programs. The beauty of accumulating flexible points, as opposed to points or miles that are specific to any one … [Continue reading]
I’m a bit of a coffee fiend, so I was pretty pleased to see that the bonus categories for the Chase Freedom card this quarter are gas stations, drug stores, and Starbucks. As I conceded in my review of the Freedom card, there does seem to be … [Continue reading]
Last night, Marriott announced a significant devaluation to their awards program: over 1,300 hotels have moved up a category (i.e. now require more points for each award night), and only 46 have moved down a category. And just for good … [Continue reading]
I have a [completely unsubstantiated, but certainly logical] theory that the profit margins in a given industry can be assessed by reference to the size of the kickbacks available on goods in that industry. And if this theory holds any water, the … [Continue reading]
Different people look for different things in checking accounts, but my primary objectives are to: (1) never pay monthly maintenance fees; (2) never pay ATM fees; and (3) earn a non-negligible rate of interest. With those goals in mind, I use Ally … [Continue reading]
I’ve been using Travelocity to book flights quite a bit lately because Travelocity bookings earn two extra points per dollar through the Chase Ultimate Rewards mall. So in addition to the two points per dollar I’d normally earn on travel purchases … [Continue reading]
I apply for approximately 4-6 credit cards per year, which seems crazy, or at least very irresponsible, to most people. I keep some of the cards for long-term use, but apply for others for the sole purpose of obtaining a hefty signup bonus. For … [Continue reading]
Credit card rewards come in many forms -- including cash, points, miles, and statement credits -- but if you have a good credit score and your rewards are not worth at least 2 cents on the dollar, you’re leaving money on the table on every single … [Continue reading]