Best miles/points program to convert to cash?
May 13, 2016 | 12:46 pm
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: May 2016
Posts: 7
Best miles/points program to convert to cash?
I know converting isn't nearly as lucrative, as it will always be $.01, but my family and I need every penny we can get right now. One day I will churn lightly for travel!
What are good programs, especially ones with signup bonuses, that would to convert to cash, statement credit, or a gift card? I've had the Venture for years, so a similar card that can convert to real world spending would be ideal.
Thanks!
What are good programs, especially ones with signup bonuses, that would to convert to cash, statement credit, or a gift card? I've had the Venture for years, so a similar card that can convert to real world spending would be ideal.
Thanks!
May 13, 2016 | 8:39 pm
#2
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: ZOA, SFO, HKG
Programs: UA 1K 0.9MM, Marriott Gold, HHonors Gold, Hertz PC, SBux Gold, TSA Pre✓
Posts: 13,807
1. All miles/points card are bad when you redeem it for cash or cash equivalent (except gift cards).
The best alternative is always a card with cash back.
2. For gift cards, it varies. But the rule of thumb is the small the value you redeem, the higher your cost (in term of miles/points redeemed).
The best alternative is always a card with cash back.
2. For gift cards, it varies. But the rule of thumb is the small the value you redeem, the higher your cost (in term of miles/points redeemed).
May 15, 2016 | 8:33 am
#5
Moderator: Budget Travel forum & Credit Card Programs, FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: YYJ/YVR and back on Van Isle ....... for now
Programs: UA lifetime MM / *A Gold
Posts: 14,683
May 15, 2016 | 4:33 pm
#6
Join Date: Feb 2016
Posts: 292
Instead of creating a headache for yourself, just go for actual cash back cards. BOA's Cash Rewards has a $200 bonus if you go for the MLB version; Chase AARP had a $200 bonus for awhile, etc. That's better than getting tons of miles that you have no use for. Almost all of the true mile programs (i.e. not Venture but actual miles) do not convert to cash at all, or if they do it's a terrible value.