Back to School Savings: 5 Credit Card Tips to Slash Costs

PennyWise: Personal Finance & Travel Tips

In this episode of PennyWise, host Nat Cardona is joined by a Nerdwallet financial expert to discuss five ways credit cards can help ease the burden of back-to-school expenses. As the school year approaches, families often face significant costs for clothes, supplies, and electronics. This episode offers practical tips to make those purchases more manageable.

The conversation kicks off with the benefits of credit card rewards. Whether it's cash back, points, or miles, redeeming these rewards can help offset the cost of back-to-school shopping. Listeners are encouraged to audit their current credit cards to ensure they align with their spending needs and explore new cards that offer valuable sign-up bonuses.

Next, they discuss the advantage of 0% APR offers. These interest-free windows can be particularly useful for spreading out the cost of school supplies without incurring additional charges. However, it's essential to understand the terms and ensure the balance is paid off before the promotional period ends to avoid retroactive interest.

The episode also highlights the value of online shopping portals and card-linked offers. By shopping through a credit card's bonus mall or taking advantage of linked offers, consumers can earn extra rewards or discounts, further stretching their back-to-school budget.

Another tip discussed is the utilization of credits that come with certain credit cards. These can include discounts on meal delivery services, streaming subscriptions, and more. Such perks can provide convenience and savings during the busy back-to-school season.

Finally, the importance of budgeting and responsible credit card use is emphasized. Charging only what you can afford to pay back and spreading out purchases throughout the year can help manage expenses effectively. Listeners are reminded that paying off the card's balance in full each month is crucial to avoid interest charges that can negate the value of rewards.

Tune in to this episode of PennyWise for expert advice on making the most of your credit cards during the back-to-school season. Implement these strategies to ease financial stress and make your money work for you.