I think the debit card or a Bank direct checking is the way to go. It's not much different than any other big, non-miles earning tab. I'm seeing the debit cards, the Citibank miles earning checking account, or the Bank Direct checking as a good way to earn some points on regular bills... mortgage, taxes, those kind of things without having to jump through the hoops of reloads, gift cards and the like. No, it's not x5, but it sure is easier. You can pay with a check like a normal person and nobody will learn of your addiction.

Personally, I've got enough financial accounts going that if I died tomorrow my family might never find it all-- or those dang passwords to access the accounts.