<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Rut Dog:
Another idea:
I've occasionally seen and heard of miles, points, or cash back bonuses being earnable on balance transfers and/or convenience checks. I don't know of any offhand, but you could call your credit card company.</font>
I occasionally see these too - rare, and almost always on the FIRST balance transfer you make with a NEW card. So, sniff around for a rewards-earning card that you've never carried before and see if there are any applicable promotions going on.