Open a BMO Harris Premier™ Account online and get a $500 cash bonus when you have a total of at least $7,500 in qualifying direct deposits within the first 90 days of account opening. Expires 9/15. Conditions Apply.
Some credit cards have complicated, multi-tier rewards programs and lists of perks and benefits longer than your arm. At times, it can feel like you need a special degree just to understand what they offer and how to maximize their value.
The Synchrony Premier World Mastercard is not that kind of credit card. It’s an extremely simple rewards credit card that earns 2% cash back on all eligible purchases and has some easy-to-understand non-rewards perks backed by Mastercard. What you see is what you get, no special degree required.
Of course, many savvy credit card users prefer complicated rewards programs and generous benefits lineups. If you’re among them, Synchrony Premier World Mastercard probably isn’t for you. But if not, take a few minutes to learn more about it.
What Is the Synchrony Premier World Mastercard?
The Synchrony Premier World Mastercard is a cash-back credit card. It earns unlimited 2% back on all eligible purchases and has no annual fee. It has a basic lineup of additional perks backed by Mastercard but no sign-up bonus or 0% introductory APR offer.
The Synchrony Premier World Mastercard is designed for people with good credit or better. It’s not for people in the process of rebuilding their credit and isn’t an appropriate first credit card.
What Sets the Synchrony Premier World Mastercard?
The Synchrony Premier World Mastercard has no really groundbreaking features. Its most notable points include:
Flat, unlimited cash back. This card earns unlimited 2% cash back on all eligible purchases, making it an ideal credit card for everyday purchases.
Potentially valuable Mastercard benefits. This card comes with some potentially valuable Mastercard-backed benefits, including a monthly $5 credit against eligible Lyft purchases and a complimentary three-month DoorDash DashPass subscription.
No sign-up bonus or 0% intro APR offer. The Synchrony Premier World Mastercard has no real incentives for new cardholders, which is a downside relative to some otherwise similar cash-back cards.
Key Features of the Synchrony Premier World Mastercard
Before you apply for the Synchrony Premier World Mastercard, make sure you understand its core features.
Earning Rewards
All eligible purchases on this card earn 2% cash back. There’s no limit to how much cash back you can earn, and your rewards don’t expire as long as your account stays open and in good standing.
Redeeming Rewards
Synchrony automatically redeems your rewards as statement credits to your account. Credits typically post within two billing cycles of the cycle they’re earned.
Mastercard-Backed Benefits
This card comes with some additional benefits backed by Mastercard:
$5 monthly credit against eligible Lyft purchases
Three-month complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership, with benefits like $0 delivery fee on eligible orders
Access to exclusive events and experiences through the Mastercard Priceless program (out-of-pocket costs may apply for tickets, food, and other aspects of participating opportunities)
Important Fees
This card has no annual fee. Other fees may apply, including for balance transfers and cash advances.
Credit Required
This card requires good or better credit. If your FICO score is significantly below 700, you’re unlikely to qualify.
Pros & Cons
These are the biggest upsides and downsides of the Synchrony Premier World Mastercard.
No annual fee
Unlimited 2% cash back on eligible purchases
Rewards automatically post to your account
No sign-up bonus
No way to earn more than 2% cash back
No 0% intro APR offer
Pros
The Synchrony Premier World Mastercard is a low-cost, easy-to-understand rewards credit card that’s straightforward to use.
No annual fee. With no annual fee, you pay nothing to keep this card around, no matter how much or how little you use it.
Flat, unlimited cash back. All eligible purchases on your Synchrony Premier World Mastercard earn 2% cash back. There’s no limit to how much you can earn.
Rewards automatically post to your account. Synchrony automatically redeems your rewards to your account each month. There’s no extra step involved and no chance of forgetting to redeem at all.
Potentially valuable Mastercard-backed benefits. While not outrageously generous, perks like a $5 monthly Lyft credit and three months’ complimentary DashPass add real value.
Cons
The Synchrony Premier World Mastercard has few benefits beyond its rewards program, which isn’t as generous as some competing cards’.
No sign-up bonus. This card has no spending-based sign-up bonus for new cardholders. Many competing no-annual-fee cash-back cards do.
No way to earn more than 2% cash back. Try as you might, your cash-back earnings top out at 2% with the Synchrony Premier World Mastercard. Some competing cards have 3% or 5% rewards tiers.
No 0% intro APR offer. This card has no 0% intro APR offer. That’s unwelcome news for anyone planning a big purchase soon after getting this card or looking to pay down an existing high-interest balance transferred from another piece of plastic.
Few perks beyond the cash-back program and Mastercard benefits. The Mastercard benefits are nice, but the Synchrony Premier World Mastercard has few other perks worth noting.
How the Synchrony Premier World Mastercard Stacks Up
Before you apply for the Synchrony Premier World Mastercard, see how it compares to another popular 2% cash-back credit card: the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card.
Synchrony Premier
Wells Fargo Active Cash
Sign-Up Bonus
No
Yes
2% Cash Back
All eligible purchases
All eligible purchases
Lyft Credits
Yes, $5 per month
No
Annual Fee
$0
$0
0% Intro APR
No
Yes, 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
The Synchrony Premier World Mastercard matches the Wells Fargo Active Cash card’s unlimited 2% cash-back rate and adds some attractive benefits on top, notably the $5 monthly Lyft credit. But Wells Fargo Active Cash is the superior card overall thanks to its sign-up bonus and 0% intro APR offers for new cardholders.
Final Word
The Synchrony Premier World Mastercard leaves very little to the imagination. It earns unlimited 2% cash back on all eligible purchases and automatically redeems rewards on users’ behalf. It has no annual fee and some appealing but not life-changing additional benefits.
If that’s enough to convince you to apply, have at it. Just know that there are more generous rewards credit cards on the market if you’re willing to seek them out.
The Verdict
Our rating
Synchrony Premier World Mastercard
The Synchrony Premier World Mastercard has an above-average but not amazing rewards program, no annual fee, and some notable non-rewards perks. However, it falls short in some key areas, including its lack of any incentives for new cardholders.
Editorial Note:
The editorial content on this page is not provided by any bank, credit card issuer, airline, or hotel chain, and has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of the bank, credit card issuer, airline, or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
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Brian Martucci writes about credit cards, banking, insurance, travel, and more. When he’s not investigating time- and money-saving strategies for Money Crashers readers, you can find him exploring his favorite trails or sampling a new cuisine. Reach him on Twitter @Brian_Martucci.
My Upside review takes an in-depth look at the Upside app, which used to be called GetUpside, to help you decide if it’s worthwhile for you to use.
Are fuel prices eating up your budget?
Prices for things have gone up in many areas, especially diesel and gas prices. If you’re looking for ways to save a little bit of money, then I have a new idea that you may not know about yet, and I’m talking about the Upside app.
Upside is an app that helps you find gas stations, groceries, and restaurants where you can earn cash back on regular purchases.
The Upside app, formerly known as GetUpside, is very easy to use. You simply sign up for a free account, and then look at the map in the Upside app to find places near you where you can earn cash back on gas, groceries, and on restaurant meals.
You can earn up to $0.25 per gallon cash back at gas stations, up to 30% back on your grocery purchases, and up to 45% back when you go out to eat at a restaurant.
I did a search on my phone and saw many fuel stations which were offering $0.55 per gallon for diesel cash back, and one that even offered $0.67 cash back per gallon. I should probably tell you that we mostly use diesel for our RV.
With Upside, you can earn cash back at more than 50,000 gas station locations in the United States. This includes many popular fuel stations, such as BP, Shell, Marathon, Phillips 66, RaceTrac, Circle K, and many more.
You won’t earn a ton of money using the Upside app, but you can definitely use it to make a little cash back over the course of the year. For example, if you fill up your fuel tank four times each month and buy 15 gallons each time, at $0.25 per gallon cash back over a 12-month period, you would get $180 cash back.
And that’s for doing something that you already do!
Upside users have already earned over $300,000,000 in cash back since the app was launched, so you know that you can trust them.
You can sign up for Upside for free here. I’m also sharing a special invite code in this Upside review that you can use to earn an extra $0.15 per gallon cash back the first time you use the Upside app. My special invite code is UMN2J.
Related content:
Upside Review
What is Upside?
Upside is a mobile app that was started in January 2016 as GetUpside. It changed names in 2022 and has quickly grown since it launched. Upside partners with gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants near you that want to get you to visit them by giving you enticing offers.
Upside gives you cash back on both gas purchases and food. Over $1,000,000 is earned by Upside users each week!
Upside works at:
Gas stations: You can get up to $0.25 per gallon cash back on gas at 25,000+ gas stations and convenience stores across the U.S.
Restaurants: You can get up to 45% cash back at 17,000+ restaurants, cafes, fast food places, and more.
Grocery stores: You can get up to 30% cash back on groceries in select cities like Minneapolis, St. Louis, Los Angeles, Chicago, Phoenix, and Raleigh. It’s available in pretty much every major city in the U.S.
It’s available on both the App Store and Google Play. There are over 300,000 great Upside reviews on the App Store alone (average of 4.8 out of 5), so you know this app is a good one!
How does Upside work?
The app is very easy to use, and it only takes about five minutes to sign up and start using. Once you have your account, you simply buy the things you already need and earn real cash each time.
There’s no limit to how much you can earn, and you can still use coupons, discounts, and loyalty programs as well. So you can stack your savings, which is what many Upside app reviews say is their favorite feature!
Here are the steps to get started with Upside:
Sign up for free here.
Connect your cards.
Find and claim your cash back offer through the Upside mobile app.
Pay as usual at the gas station, store, or restaurant.
Submit your receipt or check in.
Receive cash back that you can redeem for actual cash or a digital gift card.
Upside is easy to use as you can see.
You can cash out whenever you want via PayPal cash, gift card, or bank transfer.
How do you get paid on Upside?
The way you get paid is that you cash out whenever you want via PayPal cash, gift card, or bank transfer to your bank account.
Some of the free gift card options include:
Amazon
Apple
CVS
Dunkin Donuts
Lowe’s
Starbucks
Taco Bell
Walmart
Target
Does Upside give money back?
Yes!
You can earn up to $0.25 per gallon cash back at gas stations (even more for diesel!), up to 30% back on grocery purchases, and up to 45% back at restaurants.
They also have a referral program so that you can refer your friends and family and earn even more cash back.
To redeem your cash back through Upside, you can simply go to the Upside app and click on your balance amount in the top right corner. Then click on how you want to redeem your earnings. You can choose “Your bank account,” one of the many gift cards, or PayPal cash.
Upside may charge you a fee if you are cashing out small earnings. The fees include:
Bank account transfer: There is a $1 fee for redemptions less than $10.
PayPal cash: There is a $1 fee for if you redeem less than $15.
Gift card: There is no fee, but some gift cards may have a minimum account that you must put on a gift card.
Now, you can skip the Upside fee if you refer one person and they are actively using Upside.
What gas stations can you use with Upside?
Upside app gas stations include BP, Shell, Circle K, Marathon, Phillips 66, RaceTrac, Speedway, Chevron, Exxon, Conoco, Valero, Casey’s, 76, and more.
How does Upside work for gas?
You open the Upside app, look at the in-app map to see which gas stations are offering cash back, claim your offer in the app, fill up like you normally would, and then take and submit a picture of your receipt.
Does Upside have a gallon limit?
Each cash back offer on the Upside app is valid for up to 50 gallons of gas or diesel.
What grocery stores use Upside?
Grocery stores include Piggly Wiggly, Schnucks, Save a Lot, Gelson’s, Cardenas Markets, Vicente Foods, and more.
You can also use the Upside app for your restaurant purchases at big chains, such as Dairy Queen, Denny’s, Wendy’s, Arby’s, Burger King, Papa John’s, Dunkin Donuts, and more. It does not, however, work on delivery services such as DoorDash or Uber Eats. I did a quick search on restaurants near me, and I found up to 20% cash back at restaurants that I have been to in the past – that is such an easy way to save money!
How long does it take to get money from Upside?
When you take a picture and submit your receipt on Upside, it takes around 10 days for the cash back to process. The delay is the most common complaint in Upside gas app reviews, but it’s because receipts are checked against a gas station or store’s transaction data to confirm purchases.
Once you put in your request to get your cash back through Upside, you should see the funds in 24-48 hours.
What is Upside Check In?
Check In is a feature on Upside that makes it even easier for you to get cash back. Instead of taking the time to take a picture of your receipt, you just check in. All you need to do is claim and offer and then check in once you get to the gas station, so you don’t need to submit a receipt.
This isn’t available at all businesses, only ones that have a blue lightning badge next to their business name.
Once you’ve checked in, you have 20 minutes to make your purchase.
If you accidentally purchase items before checking in, you can still earn cash back. You can simply just head to the Help area in the Upside app and let them know.
How does this work if you don’t need a receipt? Upside does this by matching your transaction data with the store’s records by using the time, amount, and the last four numbers on your credit or debit card that you used.
What’s the catch with the Upside app?
Not all gas stations and grocery stores are on the Upside app. You may decide to switch up where you normally go so that you can get cash back from Upside.
Plus, remember that you do not get a discount as you are at the store or gas station. Instead, you get the cash back afterwards.
Fortunately, the cash that you earn through the Upside app never expires.
Why do I have to claim an offer before I make my purchase for Upside?
This is a slight downside with Upside, only because you may forget to claim an offer and not save money on your purchase!
It can be easy to forget and then have a little regret later just because you forgot such a simple step. That makes sense.
So why do you need to claim an offer as the first step?
Upside needs you to claim an offer first through their mobile app because they want to make sure that you are seeing the correct cash back amount. Offers are changed all the time, and they want to make sure you are happy with the offer that you are going to receive.
Upside also wants you to claim the offers because they want you to make your purchase within a certain time period. Gas stations and stores through Upside are constantly changing their cash back offers because it is dependent on their real-time needs.
Why does Upside need my credit card information? Is Upside safe?
In order to use Upside, you have to add your credit or debit card that you use to make purchases to your Upside “My Wallet.”
This is because Upside verifies your purchases with the companies that you shop at.
But do not worry. They do not see your full credit card number. They only see a part of it. All of the information you share with them, including full credit or debit card number as well as your identity, is secured via third-party encryption.
What else do I need to know about how to use the Upside app?
I want to make sure I cover everything in my Upside review, so here are some other things to know when using Upside:
You have to make sure to claim your offer in the Upside app before you make your purchase.
Make sure you get a receipt because you will need to take a picture of it with your cell phone.
Make sure to use a credit or debit card. To earn cash back with Upside, you need to make your purchase with a debit or credit card. Unfortunately, cash, prepaid credit cards, prepaid debit cards, gift cards, WIC, and EBT are not eligible forms of payment for Upside cash back offers. Upside says this is because “Using a credit card or debit card allows us to make sure the person who claimed the offer is the one making the purchase. This way we can show businesses working with Upside that their offers for you are driving more business for them.”
Upside is available as a mobile app for Apple iOS (through the Apple App Store) and Google Android (through the Google Play Store)
How does Upside make money?
This is a common question. After all, why does Upside give people like you and me money? What’s in it for them?
Upside makes money from referral commissions. When you shop through a company that is listed in the Upside app, Upside earns money from that company.
Upside partners with nearby businesses who want to win users over with great offers they won’t get anywhere else.
Here’s exactly what Upside says: “Upside has profit-sharing arrangements with participating businesses. When we bring them a customer or a purchase they weren’t expecting (and prove it!), then together we share in the profit earned on that purchase. Users get cash back for choosing that business, and businesses get more sales. It’s a win-win, and Upside doesn’t get paid until both make money first.”
Is the Upside app legitimate?
Yes, Upside is legitimate. Upside is not a scam.
People across the U.S. use Upside every single day and earn cash back. According to Upside, frequent users of their mobile app save an average of $148 each year. That’s not a ton of money, but it’s enough to cover your Netflix bill for the year if you think about it like that.
According to the Better Business Bureau, Upside reviews are 4.82 out of 5.0 from over 2,800 reviews. And you can go to the BBB website to read through many of the great Upside reviews posted by real users.
Upside Review – Is the Upside gas app worth it?
I think the Upside app is well worth it. It’s easy to use and doesn’t take up too much of your time. There is also no fee to use Upside as it is a free app!
If you’re looking to save some more money on your everyday purchases that you make in real life, then Upside is a great app to use. You can save money at gas stations, convenience stores, restaurants, and grocery stores around the United States, and there are probably places that you already visit and spend money at where you could be saving money!
One great thing about using the Upside app is that there is no limit to how much money you can earn, and you can still use coupons, discounts, and loyalty programs as well. That means you can stack your savings by doing all of these things and save even more money.
You can download and sign up for Upside for free here. You can also use my Upside promo code UMN2J to earn an extra $0.15 per gallon bonus the first time you use the Upside app.
Do you use the Upside app? Do you have any other questions that I didn’t address in my Upside review? You can ask in the comments, and I will answer them!
Open a BMO Harris Premier™ Account online and get a $500 cash bonus when you have a total of at least $7,500 in qualifying direct deposits within the first 90 days of account opening. Expires 9/15. Conditions Apply.
Decision fatigue is a real thing for folks in the market for a new rewards credit card. If you’re tired of evaluating the ins and outs of credit card rewards programs, there’s no shame in settling for a simple, easy-to-understand alternative.
The SoFi Credit Card is just such an alternative. And it doesn’t require much in the way of settling. It earns a flat 2% cash back on most eligible purchases and 3% back on select travel purchases — plenty generous for a no-annual-fee credit card.
The SoFi Credit Card can’t be everything to everyone, of course. Before you apply, make sure it has all the features and benefits you expect from a rewards credit card.
What Is the SoFi Credit Card?
The SoFi Credit Card is a cash-back credit card with no annual fee. It earns 2% cash back on most eligible purchases and 3% cash back on eligible purchases through SoFi Travel, which uses Expedia’s booking engine.
The SoFi Credit Card is somewhat unusual in that it doesn’t require applicants to have a U.S.-based bank account to qualify. If you’re approved for the card and don’t have a bank account, you can make payments through the SoFi app. You don’t need to use any other SoFi products to qualify for the SoFi Credit Card.
The SoFi Credit Card has some benefits beyond its rewards program, including up to $1,000 in cell phone insurance and monthly credits against eligible Lyft purchases.
What Sets the SoFi Credit Card Apart?
The SoFi Credit Card stands out from comparable cash-back credit cards for a few reasons:
Up to 3% back on eligible travel purchases. You earn unlimited 3% cash back when you book travel through SoFi Travel, which uses Expedia’s travel booking platform. Travel purchases not booked through SoFi Travel earn unlimited 2% back.
Up to $1,000 in cell phone protection. This cell phone protection plan is more generous than most credit cards’, which top out at $600 to $800 per claim.
No bank account needed to qualify. You can qualify for this card without a bank account, though you still need the SoFi app to make payments.
No sign-up bonus. One notable drawback of the SoFi Credit Card is its lack of a sign-up bonus for new cardholders. This could change in the future, but it’s an issue as of now.
Key Features of the SoFi Credit Card
The SoFi Credit Card has a straightforward rewards program and some notable benefits beyond it. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with its features before moving ahead with your application.
Earning Rewards
Most eligible purchases earn unlimited 2% cash back. There’s just one exception: Travel purchases made through the SoFi Travel platform earn unlimited 3% cash back.
Redeeming Rewards
You can redeem your accumulated cash-back rewards for:
Cash deposited into a linked external bank account or a SoFi checking account
Investments (including stocks and exchange-traded funds) purchased through SoFi’s investing platform
Payments on eligible SoFi loans
Statement credits against prior SoFi Credit Card purchases
Redemptions for cash, investments, and loan payments are worth $0.01 per cash-back point. Statement credit redemptions are worth only $0.005 per point, so they’re best avoided.
Cell Phone Protection
This card comes with a complimentary cell phone protection plan that reimburses you up to $1,000 per claim. A deductible and annual claim limits may apply.
Other Benefits
This card comes with some other potentially valuable benefits, including:
Up to $5 in monthly credits against eligible Lyft purchases
A complimentary annual membership to Shoprunner, which offers free two-day shipping on eligible online purchases
A complimentary three-month subscription to DoorDash DashPass, which offers a $0 delivery fee on qualifying orders and other perks
Important Fees
The SoFi Credit Card has no annual fee or foreign transaction fee. Other fees may apply, including for balance transfers and cash advance transactions.
Credit Required
This card requires good to excellent credit. You’re unlikely to qualify with a credit score significantly below 700 on the FICO scale.
Pros & Cons
These are the most notable upsides and downsides of the SoFi Credit Card.
No annual fee
Up to 3% cash back on eligible purchases
Up to $1,000 in cell phone protection per claim
No external bank account needed to qualify
No sign-up bonus
No 0% intro APR offer
Few benefits beyond the rewards program
Pros
The SoFi Credit Card is a low-cost, relatively high-reward credit card with some potentially valuable benefits.
No annual fee. This card has no annual fee. You won’t pay anything out of pocket to keep it active, even if you rarely use it.
2% cash back on most eligible purchases. This card earns a flat, unlimited 2% back on most eligible purchases. That makes it an above-average credit card for everyday spending.
Up to 3% back on select travel purchases. You earn 3% cash back when you book travel through SoFi Travel, an online travel portal powered by Expedia. There’s no limit to how much you can earn on eligible purchases.
Unusually generous cell phone protection. This card’s cell phone protection plan covers more than the average credit card’s. It tops out at $1,000 per claim, against $600 to $800 elsewhere.
Credits against Lyft purchases and other potentially valuable perks. You get $5 off Lyft purchases each month, plus a free annual membership to Shoprunner, which could save you a bunch on shipping if you buy a lot online from participating merchants. The three-month complimentary DoorDash DashPass benefit is appealing if you regularly order delivery.
No foreign transaction fee. This card has no foreign transaction fee, so it’s useful if and when you travel abroad or make purchases with overseas merchants.
No bank account needed to qualify. You don’t need a bank account to qualify for the SoFi Credit Card. You can make payments through the SoFi app instead.
Cons
The SoFi Credit Card lacks the more generous features common to top cash-back and travel rewards credit cards.
No way to earn more than 3% cash back. There’s no way to earn cash back at a rate higher than 3% with this card. Some competing cash-back cards offer 5%, 8%, even 10% cash-back tiers.
No sign-up bonus. The SoFi Credit Card has no sign-up bonus. This is a notable drawback for new cardholders eager to start earning rewards.
No 0% intro APR offer. Unlike many competing credit cards, the SoFi Credit Card has no introductory interest-free period. This is a drawback if you need to pay down high-interest balances accrued on another card or you’re planning to make a big purchase that you’d rather not pay off all at once.
Limited travel perks. The SoFi Credit Card has little in the way of travel perks, such as discounts or rewards at participating hotels and airport lounge access.
How the SoFi Credit Card Stacks Up
The SoFi Credit Card is similar to numerous other cash-back credit cards that earn 2% back on most or all eligible purchases. Before you apply, see how it compares against another popular option: the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card.
SoFi Credit Card
Wells Fargo Active Cash
Sign-Up Bonus
No
Yes
2% Cash Back
Eligible purchases except SoFi Travel
All eligible purchases
3% Cash Back
SoFi Travel purchases
None
Annual Fee
$0
$0
0% Intro APR
No
Yes, 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
The SoFi Credit Card is the clear winner if you travel regularly thanks to its 3% cash-back rate on SoFi Travel purchases. But Wells Fargo Active Cash is a better choice if you’re seeking a sign-up bonus or 0% intro APR offer as a new cardholder.
Final Word
The SoFi Credit Card is a straightforward cash-back credit card that’s easy even for credit card novices to understand and use effectively. And that’s a good thing if you’re tired of comparing the minutiae of credit card rewards programs — or don’t want to start doing that in the first place.
Then again, the SoFi Credit Card has some important missing elements. It has no sign-up bonus or 0% intro APR offer, and it lacks some of its peers’ more generous travel perks. It’s not a bad card by any means, but you can do better if you’re willing to shop around.
Editorial Note:
The editorial content on this page is not provided by any bank, credit card issuer, airline, or hotel chain, and has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of the bank, credit card issuer, airline, or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
The Verdict
Our rating
SoFi Credit Card
The SoFi Credit Card is a straightforward cash-back card that earns 2% back on most purchases and 3% back on eligible travel purchases. With no annual fee and potentially valuable perks beyond its rewards program, it easily pays for itself. But the missing sign-up bonus and 0% intro APR offer lessen its appeal.
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Brian Martucci writes about credit cards, banking, insurance, travel, and more. When he’s not investigating time- and money-saving strategies for Money Crashers readers, you can find him exploring his favorite trails or sampling a new cuisine. Reach him on Twitter @Brian_Martucci.
The cost of your point-of-sale (POS) system will largely depend on the kind of POS system you choose, your industry and the hardware you need. The total initial cost of a POS system can range from $0 (if you’re able to use free software and hardware you already own) up to $2,000.
Components of a POS System
To break down the cost of your POS system, think of your needs in terms of three main components: POS software, POS hardware and payment processing.
POS Software
POS software can range in price from $0 to over $200 per month, depending on your needs. Although free POS software can be great for newer businesses, you may need to upgrade to paid software in order to access many features that are industry-specific or that may help your business scale.
For example, Square for Restaurant’s Free plan includes standard features like menu and table management, reporting, and iPad and register compatibility. To get more advanced features like mobile POS capability, live sales data and floor plan customization, you need to upgrade to the Plus plan for $60 per month.
See some popular POS systems and their monthly software costs below.
POS Hardware
POS hardware consists of the physical components you need to accept payments, which can include:
Cash registers: Can start as low as $100 for a basic model and up to over $1,500.
Tablet stands: Can range from $99 to $199 for the stand, not including the tablet.
Credit card readers: Can range from $0 for Square’s magstripe reader that plugs into a tablet or phone up to $300.
Self-service kiosks: Can range from $700 for countertop kiosks up to $4,000 for free-standing kiosks.
POS terminals: Can range from $49 for a small mobile terminal up to $1,799 for a full cash register.
Cash drawers: Can range from $39 to almost $1,000 for high-capacity cash drawers.
Barcode scanners: Can range from $20 for a simple USB scanner up to $600 for scanners with touch-screen terminals attached.
Receipt printers: Can range from $26 up to over $600. Some multi-functional terminals, like the Clover Flex handheld system, have receipt printers built in.
Many top POS providers have their own branded hardware, but some will let you purchase or use your own hardware. Hardware is usually a fixed, one-time cost upfront, but some companies allow payment plans that can be rolled into your monthly payment.
Payment processing
Payment processing is a system that allows you to collect payments from customers in any form except cash or check. The function serves as a middleman between your customer and your business bank account, and can be offered in different pricing models:
Interchange plus. Interchange plus pricing models consist of the interchange rate, which is the rate charged to a processing company by the card company, plus a fee charged by the payment processing company.
Flat rate. Flat-rate models charge by the type of transaction, like in-person or online, and the rate is consistent regardless of the interchange cost from the card company.
Subscription. Subscription models are less common and usually charge monthly or yearly.
Variables that factor into POS system costs
Type of business
Your business’s industry is a huge factor in the overall cost of your POS system because it likely affects each of the three main pricing components. If you own a retail business, for example, you might need additional software integrations like inventory management that will function across locations and platforms. If you have a restaurant, you might want additional hardware like a kitchen display system or a self-service kiosk. If you run an e-commerce company, your biggest cost may come in the form of your website or online store.
Number of locations
The number of business locations is an important factor that can affect both the software and hardware components of your POS system. To function properly, your POS system will likely require a set of hardware (register, card reader, etc.) per location (and per checkout point within your store). Additionally, many POS providers price by the location, so there may be added monthly software costs if you have more than one location.
Add-ons
Customer loyalty features, online ordering, appointment booking, email marketing and more can be priced as add-ons to your monthly subscription costs. Any one of these may be important to how you run your business. For businesses that require the ability to book appointments, like a salon for example, Clover uses a third-party add-on software called Salon Scheduler that can cost anywhere from $19.99 to $119.99 per month, depending on things like the number of employees and the number of reminders per appointment.
Similarly, Toast’s POS system for restaurants offers online ordering and delivery services as an add-on for an additional monthly cost, either through its own software or a third-party integration like Grubhub or DoorDash.
Scalability
When you’re researching which POS system is best for you, it can be helpful to think long term about where you’d like your business to go. It can be costly and painful to switch your whole POS system if you want to add another location, for example, or if you want to start marketing to help growth. Look at what packages work for where your business is now, and what add-ons or packages are available for where it could be in the future.
Frequently asked questions
Do I really need a POS system?
It may vary depending on your type of business, but for most businesses it’s recommended to enroll with a POS provider. POS systems help you safely accept multiple types of payments, manage and track inventory, interface with customers, grow your business and more.
What is needed for a POS system?
A POS system is made of three main components: software (normally a monthly cost), hardware (can be purchased upfront or on a payment plan) and payment processing (can be priced monthly or by transaction). Additional needs will depend on your specific business.
It seems almost every airline, hotel chain and credit card issuer has launched its own premium credit card, enticing customers with luxury travel perks paired with hefty annual fees. Many of these cards offer solid value, especially if you’re loyal to the underlying brand.
There are two long-standing titans of the premium card market. Of course, we’re talking about The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve. The former built the market for premium rewards cards decades ago, while the latter is responsible for growing its mass appeal.
Since the Sapphire Reserve debuted in 2016, competition between these two cards has been fierce. Today, we will look at how they stack up against each other and whether you should consider adding one (or both) to your wallet.
Related: The best travel credit cards
Welcome offer
When considering a new card, especially one with a $500-plus annual fee, most people first look at the welcome offer to see how much of that annual fee they can start recouping immediately.
With its $695 annual fee (see rates and fees), the Amex Platinum is currently offering new applicants 80,000 Membership Rewards points after they spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months of cardmembership. However, it’s worth checking to see if you’re targeted for a higher offer of up to 125,000 points through the CardMatch tool (offer subject to change at any time).
TPG values Membership Rewards points at 2 cents each, making the initial welcome offer of 80,000 points worth $1,600 alone. Since Amex only allows you to earn a welcome offer on each of its cards once per lifetime, it might be tempting to hold off on applying for the Amex Platinum in hopes that you may be targeted through CardMatch for a higher bonus at some point in the future.
Meanwhile, the Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a sign-up bonus of 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 in the first three months from account opening.
TPG also values Ultimate Rewards points at 2 cents each, making this bonus worth $1,200. That’s significantly lower than the Amex Platinum offer, though the spending requirement to earn the bonus is also lower.
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Winner: The Amex Platinum takes the lead in this first category, especially if you are targeted for an elevated offer through CardMatch.
Related: The best time to apply for these popular cards based on offer history
Earning
Long after your bonus has been earned and spent, you’ll want a card to help you quickly rack up valuable transferable points.
Both of these cards get that done but in very different ways. Your best option depends on which other Chase or Amex cards you currently have in your wallet and how the bonus categories on those other cards overlap with the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum.
Here are the bonus categories for these two cards:
Bonus multiplier
Amex Platinum
Chase Sapphire Reserve
10 points per dollar
N/A.
Lyft rides (through March 2025.)
Hotels and car rentals booked through the Ultimate Rewards portal.
Chase Dining purchases made through the Ultimate Rewards portal.
Peloton equipment and accessory purchases of $250 or more, with a maximum of 50,000 points (through March 2025).
5 points per dollar
Airfare booked directly with airlines and airfare booked with American Express Travel, on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
Prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel.
Airfare booked through the Ultimate Rewards portal.
3 points per dollar
N/A.
Travel and dining.
1 point per dollar
All other purchases.
All other purchases.
Chase offers a broader range of bonus categories, including everyday purchases like travel and dining.
While the Amex Platinum does pull ahead on airfare booked directly with airlines (with a terrific 10% return), the Chase Sapphire Reserve pulls ahead for dozens of other travel expenses, including most hotels, ride-hailing services, parking fees, tolls and tours. It also has an equally broad 3 points per dollar spent on dining that the Platinum can’t match.
Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve is the best for earning thanks to its favorable everyday bonus categories that help you earn more points in the long term.
Related: Best reward cards for each bonus category
Redemption options
With Chase Ultimate Rewards and Amex Membership Rewards tied at 2 cents apiece in TPG’s valuations, it’s worth looking at the different transfer partners to decide which ones best suit your needs.
Let’s start with the Chase Sapphire Reserve. In addition to 11 airline and three hotel transfer partners, Sapphire Reserve customers get a 50% bonus when redeeming points for travel directly through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. This gives you an absolute minimum redemption value of 1.5 cents per point, meaning you can book a seat on any flight that’s for sale, even if there isn’t award space available.
That said, you’ll often get a better value by transferring your points to the loyalty programs of airlines and hotels instead. All Chase partner transfers are at a 1:1 ratio, and most of them are instant. Ultimate Rewards has a real edge for hotel bookings because of its partnership with World of Hyatt, where you can book an award night for as low as 3,500 points per night.
On the airline side of things, popular redemption options include United MileagePlus, Southwest Rapid Rewards, British Airways Avios, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club and Air France-KLM Flying Blue — though the last three also partner with Amex Membership Rewards. The same holds true for Air Canada Aeroplan — though if you also hold the Aeroplan Credit Card, you can enjoy a 10% bonus on certain transfers from Chase Ultimate Rewards to your Aeroplan account.
Finally, you also have the Pay Yourself Back option with the Sapphire Reserve, allowing you to use points to cover certain purchases at higher values:
1.5 cents per point for select charitable donations (through Dec. 31, 2023.)
1.25 cents per point for purchases at gas stations and grocery stores (through Sept. 30, 2023.)
1.25 cents per point to cover your annual fee (through Sept. 30, 2023.)
Again, though, the best redemption option will typically come from maximizing Chase’s transfer partners.
Meanwhile, Amex Membership Rewards has a whopping 20 transfer partners, but not all are worth your attention. Some have transfer ratios below 1:1, have longer transfer times (which means you risk watching your award space disappear) or simply don’t have reasonably priced redemption options.
Some of the best are ANA Mileage Club, Air Canada Aeroplan and Avianca LifeMiles, each of which offers attractively priced options for booking Star Alliance tickets. Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, British Airways Executive Club and Delta SkyMiles are also popular transfer options.
However, if you opt to use your points directly through American Express Travel, you won’t get nearly the value you do through Chase. Flight bookings are a flat 1 cent per point, while hotel reservations clock in at just 0.7 cents apiece. As a result, you’re typically much better off with the transfer options.
Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve comes out on top for redemption options since it offers a 1:1 transfer ratio for all of its airline and hotel partners, the Pay Yourself Back feature and more flexibility with its 50% bonus for travel booked in Ultimate Rewards.
Perks and benefits
The Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum are two of the most valuable rewards cards on the market, but they’re also two of the most expensive. You’ll pay a $550 annual fee with the Sapphire Reserve and a $695 annual fee with the Amex Platinum.
So, what do you get in exchange for that upfront cost? For starters, both cards feature airport lounge access and additional travel and food delivery credits, among other benefits. Let’s take a look below at the most popular and valuable perks available (note that enrollment is required for select benefits):
*Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered, and geographic restrictions apply. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
**Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
This is by far the trickiest part of the comparison, with many different pieces to unpack. It’s also the one where your own personal preferences may sway you to one card or another.
For starters, the Sapphire Reserve still has an edge over Amex regarding the $300 annual travel credit. Not only is it a higher amount than the up-to-$200 airline fee credit that comes with the Amex Platinum, but it’s also much less restrictive. It will automatically apply to a broad range of travel purchases. In contrast, the $200 Amex airline credit only applies to select fees such as seat assignments or checked bags — and you’re limited to a single airline you designate each year.
Regarding ride-hailing services, some people see the up-to-$200 in annual (U.S.) Uber Cash (broken into $15 a month, with a $20 bonus in December) that comes with the Amex Platinum card as a cash-like credit. However, not everyone uses a ride-hailing service or places an Uber Eats order in the U.S. once a month, which means the 10 points per dollar spent on Lyft rides with the Sapphire Reserve might be a more valuable option.
On the flip side, if you live in a smaller city or never order food, you might find the DoorDash partnership with Chase useless.
The same can be said of certain perks on the Amex Platinum — including statement credits with Saks Fifth Avenue, Clear and select digital entertainment providers. If you already use these services or merchants, it’s like money back in your pocket. If not, you may find they aren’t a real value-add relative to the annual fee.
Meanwhile, the Amex Platinum is widely considered the most comprehensive card for airport lounge access. Although the Priority Pass Select membership that comes with this card no longer allows you to access participating restaurants (you can with a Chase-issued Priority Pass membership), the access to Amex’s wide collection of Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs on same-day Delta flights should be enough to make up for that.
Meanwhile, the Sapphire Reserve only offers Priority Pass access, they are expanding their network of Chase lounges, with the first U.S. location open in Boston.
Another area where Amex excels is by offering Gold elite status with both Marriott and Hilton to Platinum cardholders. Chase offers no equivalent benefit.
Chase has historically been the leader in travel insurance, with generous terms. Amex has partially closed the gap, adding a suite of travel protection benefits to the Amex Platinum card (see here for more).
Winner: Amex Platinum is the clear winner when it comes to perks and benefits, which include its $1,400-plus in annual statement credits, expanded airport lounge access, travel protections, and elite status with Marriott and Hilton. However, if you’re looking for a more flexible travel credit, comprehensive protections and fewer lifestyle perks, the Sapphire Reserve could be a better option.
Related: How long it takes to receive statement credits
Bottom line
The Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card from American Express are two of the most popular premium rewards cards on the market. However, they offer slightly different value propositions.
Between hotel elite status and Centurion Lounge access, the Amex Platinum is better suited for those looking to enjoy a more luxurious travel lifestyle. If you frequently purchase airfare qualifying for 5 points per dollar, this card deserves a spot in your wallet.
The Sapphire Reserve, by comparison, is a premium card that’s simple enough for beginners and pros alike. The $300 annual travel credit is automatically applied to a wide range of purchases. Plus, you earn 3 points per dollar on travel (excluding the $300 travel credit) and dining and these categories are broad enough that you won’t be scratching your head trying to decide if you’re swiping the right card.
However, some may even find that it makes sense to carry both cards. If you can take advantage of all the annual statement credits and luxury perks, these cards can actually complement each other well.
Official application link: Amex Platinum Official application link: Chase Sapphire Reserve
For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum, click here.
Additional reporting by Emily Thompson, Ryan Wilcox, Stella Shon, Juan Ruiz and Chris Dong.
Inside: Are you looking for ways to make money quickly and easily? This guide has a variety of tips and tricks to help you make 1000 a day.
Making money is something that everyone is interested in. And why wouldn’t we be? Money gives us the ability to buy the things we want, travel, and live a lifestyle that most people can only dream of.
But what if I told you that it was possible to make $1000 a day? Would you believe me?
Well, in this blog post, I’m going to show you some of the best ways to make money really fast.
So if you’re looking to make some quick cash or consistent income, then this is the post for you!
In this post, I will share with your some of the best ways that I know of to make money $1k a day on a regular basis.
So if you’re ready to learn how to make 1000 a day, then let’s get started!
Is it possible to make $1000 a day?
Yes, it is possible to make $1000 a day.
In fact, this is something I regularly do (see picture to prove it).
However, achieving this goal requires commitment, hard work, and a solid plan. Factors that contribute to achieving this goal include finding a method that works for you, sticking with it, and putting in the necessary effort.
Additionally, having a unique skill set and interest in a particular method can increase the chances of success.
How to make $1000 a day?
Making $1000 a day is an appealing goal for many people, whether it’s a one-time need or a consistent source of income. Fortunately, there are several ways to achieve this goal.
Here are the top ways to make $1000 a day:
Start a high-paying job: Some jobs pay over $300k a year, and while they may require advanced degrees and education, there are also a few that don’t require a college degree.
Offer high-value services: You can offer services such as pet-sitting, tutoring, design work, or writing to make money.
Start a business: You can start a business that generates $1000 a day, such as a digital marketing agency, freelancing, or a service-based business.
Sell items you no longer need: You can sell items on eBay, Craigslist, or other online marketplaces to make quick cash.
Let your money work for you: You can invest in stocks and shares, real estate, or property to earn upwards of $1000 a day.
While each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, with the right strategy and dedication, making $1000 a day is achievable.
So, get started today and see how much money you can make.
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If so, proofreading could be a perfect fit for you, just like it’s been for countless of readers! Learn how you can create a freelance business as a proofreader.
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Find out TODAY if this is THE business you’ve been looking for.
Best ways to make 1000 a day
We’ve compiled a list of our favorite ways to make money really fast – specifically $1k a day!
Many times, you will have to invest 100 to make 1000 a day.
If you’re looking for ways to make some extra cash, or even earn a full-time income, this post is for you.
1. Freelance Writing
Freelance writing is a great way to make extra money or even replace your full-time job. There are various types of content that freelance writers can specialize in, such as long-form content or shorter direct-response copywriting.
With freelance writing, you can earn over $.50 or even $1 per word, which means that a 1,000-word article could net you $1,000 quickly.
To start, you need to establish a portfolio of your work to pitch to new clients. This portfolio should include links to any relevant articles or copy you’ve written that’s related to the client you’re pitching. If you don’t have a portfolio yet, you might need to do some work at lower rates to get your foot in the door.
Even if you don’t consider yourself a writer, don’t strike it off the list just yet. With the right approach and mindset, anyone can become a successful freelance writer.
2. Crafting
Crafting offers many benefits beyond just making extra cash. It allows for flexibility in your schedule, creativity in your work, and the ability to turn a hobby into a lucrative business.
If you are creative and have a talent for creating handmade items, then starting a crafting business is the perfect way to monetize that skill by doing something you enjoy. There are plenty of crafts to choose from and you may even become an instructor!
The most difficult side is you are trading your time for money and it may be difficult to scale.
3. Day Trading Stocks
Day trading stocks is a high-risk, high-reward investment strategy that involves buying and selling stocks within a single trading day. It requires a great deal of knowledge, discipline, and risk management to be successful.
However, there is a large group of us who have made the $1000 in a day club.
Successful day traders use a combination of technical analysis, risk management, and discipline to make profitable trades.
This choice requires discipline, a proper trading education, knowledge, and risk management.
Trade and Travel with Teri Ijeoma is a popular course that investors can take to learn about trading stocks and options and begin their journey to making $1,000 a day.
4. Trading Options
Trading options can be a lucrative way for seasoned investors to make money.
With options, investors can speculate on different stocks with only a fraction of the investment capital needed to buy the stocks outright.
Investors who are familiar with investing in individual stocks can take the next step in the process by trading options. While options may seem exotic on the surface, they are a common tool used by seasoned investors and are especially valuable during volatile activity in the stock market.
To trade options successfully, investors need research skills, investing knowledge, discipline, and patience.
Trading options can be a high-risk option, especially for those who lack expertise in the area. However, it can be extremely lucrative for those who have experience and knowledge in the stock market.
Investors should consider taking courses to learn more about trading options.
5. Youtube
YouTube can be a great source of income for those who are willing to put in the effort to create quality content. It offers multiple ways to generate revenue, including sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and Google Adsense.
With the right approach, it’s possible to make $1000 or more per day on YouTube.
Remember, success on YouTube takes time and hard work, but the potential rewards are significant.
6. Selling on Amazon
Selling products on Amazon can be a highly profitable business opportunity.
Amazon FBA, or Fulfilled by Amazon, is a business model where you send your inventory to Amazon warehouses and they handle the rest, including storage, shipping, customer service, and returns.
This makes it a great option for digital nomads and those looking to scale their business quickly.
With an average profit margin of $20 per sale, it’s possible to make $1,000 per day by selling just 5 units per day of 10 different products.
7. Sell Printables Online
Selling printables online has become a popular way to make passive income.
With the rise of digital products, creators can sell anything from coloring pages to budget spreadsheets on platforms like Etsy. Thousands of creators make a living selling digital products, and it’s easy to see why.
Learn how these sellers got started.
The key is to pick a topic you’re knowledgeable in and passionate about, so you can create high-quality products that people will want to buy.
8. Dropshipping
Dropshipping is one of the best ways to make $1000 a day, especially for those looking to start a business with minimal initial investment.
This business model allows entrepreneurs to sell products to customers without ever holding a single piece of stock.
Dropshipping is a viable and profitable business model that can generate high profits without the hassle of managing inventory. With the right niche, platform, supplier, and marketing strategy, entrepreneurs can make $1000 a day or more with dropshipping.
9. Consulting
Consulting is one of the best ways to make $1000 a day!
It’s a lucrative career option that allows you to provide expert advice to clients and help them solve problems.
The first step to becoming a consultant is to determine your area of expertise. This could be anything from personal finance to marketing to human resources. Your expertise should be something that you have significant knowledge and experience in.
One of the most important aspects of becoming a consultant is building your network. This includes reaching out to potential clients, attending networking events, and connecting with other professionals in your field.
10. Become a Virtual Assistant
Being a virtual assistant can be a great way to make money while setting your own hours.
As a virtual assistant with no experience, you can work from home and typically on your own schedule. You can choose to work part-time or full-time based on your availability and the workload of your clients.
The tasks that you are asked to perform as a virtual assistant can vary widely, but commonly needed skills include administration, accounting and bookkeeping, marketing, communications, customer service, and many other capacities.
You don’t need special skills or training for this job, as most clients will bring you up to speed on what they need to do. However, having organizational, communication, and time-management skills can be helpful.
Check out the checklist to get started as a virtual assistant.
11. Side Hustles
Side hustles are a great way to earn extra income and supplement your regular income. With a little effort and some creativity, you can make up to $1000 a day with certain side hustles.
Here are some of the best side hustles that can help you achieve this goal:
Deliver food: You can make good money by delivering food with these apps. You can choose your own hours and work as much or as little as you want. DoorDash is a great option.
Drive with ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft: If you have a car and some free time, you can earn money by driving people around. You can make up to $1000 a day, depending on how much you work.
Pet sit or walk dogs: If you love animals, you can make money by pet sitting or dog walking through Rover.com. You can earn up to $50 per day, depending on the services you offer.
Babysit or tutor: If you have experience with children or are good at a particular subject, you can offer your services as a babysitter or tutor through Care.com. You can make up to $50 per hour, depending on your qualifications.
Side hustles are a great way to make extra money and reach your financial goals.
12. Start a Business
Starting a business is one of the most effective ways to make 1000 dollars a day on a regular basis. However, it requires careful planning and execution to succeed.
The first step is to research the market and identify a profitable business idea and build it to profitability.
Challenges may arise, such as competition, financial setbacks, and marketing difficulties, but with persistence and determination, you can overcome them and achieve financial success.
The potential for significant financial gain from starting a successful business is immense, making it a worthwhile endeavor for anyone willing to put in the effort.
13. Yard Work
Yard work is an excellent way to make $1000 a day, especially if you have some extra time and don’t mind getting dirty.
If you want to get up and running quickly, there is nothing better than a local side hustle to earn extra money such as mowing lawns in your neighborhood.
Mowing lawns is not only a great side hustle for adults but also for teens. For an average size lot, you could expect to make at least $35. If you could line up a few lawns each weekend, you could easily make an extra $1000 each month.
Landscaping, leave pickup, and bush trimming are all simple tasks that you can complete quickly if you have the right equipment. You can choose to set an hourly rate or get paid for the entire job, depending on the task.
You may have to start hiring crews in order to hit $1k a day.
14. AirBnb or VRBO Rentals
Airbnb or VRBO are popular platforms for renting out your property to travelers.
Many successful hosts have earned $1000 or more per day because they have accumulated more than one property.
One tip for success is to garner excellent reviews that people want to come back time and time again.
15. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is a lucrative way to make money online and has the potential to earn you $1000 a day.
This works well for influencers who have a reach of thousands of people. Another way is creating a niche website that focuses on a specific product or market segment.
It’s essential to promote products effectively to generate revenue. Successful affiliate marketers have earned six figures or more per year.
16. Flip Products or Retail Arbitrage
Retail arbitrage is a popular business model that can help you make $1,000 per day or more. The premise is simple – buy or find things cheap and resell them for a higher price.
This is a great example of how to flip money.
To be successful, you’ll need to have an eye for the right product and do product research to choose products that will sell.
Here is a list of the most popular items to flip.
17. Pickup Services
Pickup services refer to businesses that provide transportation and delivery services for goods, furniture, or other items. These services are in high demand, especially in urban areas where people are always on the move and need help with moving heavy or bulky items.
Starting a pickup service business requires some equipment, such as a truck or van, and marketing strategies to attract customers.
So, if you are looking for a new side hustle or business opportunity, consider pickup services as a viable option.
18. Casino Gambling
While casino gambling is not a recommended way to make $1000 a day, it is still worth mentioning as a potential option.
However, it is important to note that gambling should always be done responsibly and within one’s means.
If you are considering casino gambling as a way to make quick money, it is essential to understand the most profitable games and their strategies. Here is an ordered list of the best casino games to play to make money:
Blackjack: This game has one of the lowest house edges, making it a popular choice for professional gamblers. The objective of the game is to beat the dealer’s hand without going over 21. The key to winning at blackjack is to use basic strategy, which involves making the mathematically correct decisions based on the dealer’s upcard and your own hand.
Craps: This game has a low house edge and offers a variety of betting options. The objective of the game is to predict the outcome of a roll or series of rolls of the dice. To win at craps, it is essential to understand the different bets and their odds and to follow a betting strategy that suits your playing style.
Baccarat: This game is easy to learn and has a low house edge. The objective of the game is to bet on the hand that will have a total of 9 or closer to 9. The key to winning at baccarat is to understand the different bets and their odds and to follow a betting strategy that suits your playing style.
When playing these games, it is important to practice good bankroll management by setting a budget for yourself and sticking to it. It is also crucial to know when to quit to avoid losing money.
A winning streak can lead to making $1000 a day, but it is important to be cautious and not get carried away.
19. Freelance Graphic Design
Graphic designers create visual concepts using computer software or by hand to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They work on various projects such as branding, marketing materials, website design, and more.
Freelance graphic design is a lucrative option because there is always a demand for graphic design services, and businesses are willing to pay top dollar for high-quality designs.
By building a strong portfolio, staying up-to-date with the latest design trends, and providing excellent service to your clients, you can earn a substantial income as a freelance graphic designer.
20. Make Money Flipping Items
Flea market flipping is a great way to make some extra cash on the side or even turn it into a full-time business. It involves buying items for a low price and reselling them for a profit.
One couple, Rob and Melissa Stephenson, have become full-time flea market flippers and even host their own website, Flea Market Flipper, to help others find success in the venture. They offer several courses to help individuals turn this into a serious side hustle or even a full-time business earning six figures.
Learning from successful flea market flippers like Stephenson’s can be a great way to get started. They have the skills and knowledge to help individuals find valuable items, network, and use social media and photography to their advantage.
21. Photography
Photography is a lucrative career option that has the potential to generate high income or as a side hustle.
There are different types of photography that one can explore to make money, including wedding photography, family photography, real estate photography, and stock photography.
By building a strong portfolio, networking, finding clients, investing in high-quality equipment, and constantly improving your skills, you can become a successful photographer and make a great income. Don’t underestimate your potential in this field.
22. Rental Income
Passive income through rental properties is a great way to generate consistent long-term income. Here are the steps to follow in order to make $1000 a day through rent income:
Find a suitable property: Look for properties that are priced reasonably, require minimal renovations, and are located in areas with high rental demand. You are likely to start making $1000 a month.
However, the earning potential is dependent on the ability to scale multiple properties, keep them occupied, and increase monthly income streams.
Investing in rental properties can be a lucrative and rewarding experience for those willing to put in the effort.
23. Amazon Merch
Amazon Merch is a platform that allows you to create and sell your own merchandise on Amazon. It’s an excellent way to make money because Amazon handles all of the heavy lifting, such as printing, shipping, and customer service.
Using Amazon Merch, you can sell a variety of products from t-shirts to phone cases, and best of all, you don’t need to invest in inventory or equipment.
All you need to do is create the designs.
Successful Amazon Merch sellers include graphic designers, artists, and entrepreneurs who have created unique and appealing designs that resonate with their target audience.
24. Creative Skills like Video Editing
Creative skills can be a valuable asset when it comes to generating income. Video editing is another skill that can be monetized.
With the rise of video content, businesses, and individuals are always in need of skilled video editors. One can offer video editing services for YouTube creators, and businesses, or even edit personal videos for clients.
Freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are great places to find video editing jobs.
25. Fashion Design
Fashion design is one of the most lucrative ways to make money, and it’s an industry that’s always in demand.
Whether you’re interested in starting your own fashion label, working for a fashion house, or becoming a freelance designer, there are plenty of opportunities to make a living in this field.
Marketing yourself is also key to success in fashion design. Use social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to showcase your work and build a following.
Networking is also an important part of building a successful career in fashion design. You must stay up-to-date on industry trends, make valuable connections, and potentially land new clients or job opportunities.
Create a website or blog where you can share your designs, offer fashion tips, and connect with potential clients.
Pay attention to industry trends, stay creative and original, and focus on developing your skills and building your brand. Then, there are plenty of opportunities to make a living in this exciting and dynamic industry.
26. Start a Blog
Many people say blogging is dead. But, it’s not.
Starting a blog can be a great way to share your interests, skills, and experiences with others while also creating a new income stream for yourself. The flexibility of blogging allows you to turn your current job or passion into a successful blog.
However, starting a blog can be challenging, and it requires technical knowledge, writing ability, social media skills, and topical expertise.
Once you have started your blog, it’s essential to treat it like a business and monetize your content.
27. Self-Storage Business
Self-storage business is a lucrative venture that involves renting out storage units to customers who need extra space for their belongings. These businesses are in high demand, especially in urban areas where living spaces are often small and cramped.
In fact, the self-storage business is expected to bloom to $64.17 billion by 2026.
Starting a self-storage business can be a profitable venture if done correctly.
28. Invest in Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies have gained popularity as a potential source of significant income. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin are some of the best cryptocurrencies to invest in.
To invest in cryptocurrencies, one must first set up a digital wallet and choose a reputable exchange such as Coinbase or Bitstamp.
It is important to research the market and understand the volatility of cryptocurrency before investing. While the potential for high returns exists, it is important to approach cryptocurrency investing with caution.
29. Invest in Real Estate
Investing in real estate can be a lucrative way of making money.
To make $1000 a day through real estate investing, there are several steps you can take.
First, set aside a few hundred dollars each month to invest in real estate over time.
Second, consider the different types of real estate investments available, such as rental properties, commercial properties, and fix-and-flip properties. Each investment type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to research and choose the one that fits your financial goals.
Third, consider investing in real estate investment trusts (REITs) or crowdfunding platforms like Fundrise, which allow you to invest in real estate without purchasing a property.
Remember that investing in real estate carries a degree of risk, so it’s important to do your research and seek advice from successful real estate investors.
30. Make Money on the Internet
Making money online has become a popular option for those looking to earn a substantial income. The internet provides a wealth of opportunities for anyone with an internet connection and a bit of creativity.
You need to learn how to make money online for beginners.
There are so many options today and you never have to leave your house!
When it comes to making $1000 a day online, it’s important to acknowledge that it’s not a quick or easy process. It takes time and effort to build a successful online business or generate significant income through freelance work or other online opportunities.
However, with dedication and hard work, it is possible to achieve your financial goals.
How to make $1,000 really fast?
If you’re in a financial bind and need to make $1,000 quickly, there are several options available to you.
Here are the top ways to make $1,000 a day quickly:
Sell items on eBay or Craigslist: If you have items that you no longer need, consider selling them online. This could include clothes, furniture, or electronics. This is a quick and easy way to make money fast.
Offer freelance services: You can offer services such as tutoring, design work, or writing. If you have a specific skill or talent, you can find customers online who are willing to pay for your services.
Do odd jobs for people in your community: You can offer to mow lawns, rake leaves, or shovel snow for a fee. This is a great way to make money quickly, especially if you live in an area with a lot of homeowners.
Participate in paid focus groups or surveys: This is a great way to make money quickly without leaving your home. Companies are always looking for feedback on their products and services, and they are willing to pay for it.
Rent out a room in your home on Airbnb: If you have a spare room in your home, you can rent it out on Airbnb and make money quickly. This is a great option if you live in a popular tourist destination.
Manage social media accounts: Many businesses need help managing their social media accounts, and they are willing to pay for them. If you have experience with social media, this could be a great way to make money quickly.
Start a blog: If you have a passion for writing or a specific topic, you can start a blog and sell advertising space or products/services to your readers. This takes some time to build up, but it can be a lucrative way to make money in the long run.
Sell handmade crafts or goods online: If you’re crafty, you can make items and sell them online, such as on Etsy. This is a great way to turn your hobby into a money-making opportunity.
Borrow money from friends or family: This is not an ideal option, but if you’re in a bind and need money quickly, consider asking for a loan from someone you trust.
Pawn items for cash: This is a last resort option, but if you have items of value, you can pawn them for cash quickly.
Don’t be afraid to try different methods and see what works best for you.
This is the perfect side hustle if you don’t have much time, experience, or money.
Many earn over $10,000 in a year selling printables on Etsy. Learn how to get started by watching this free workshop.
If you’ve ever wanted to make a full-time income while working from home, you’re in the right place!
This intensive training combines thousands of hours of research, years of experience in growing a virtual assistant business, and the power of a coach who has helped thousands of students launch and grow their own business from scratch.
FAQ
Passive income is a form of earnings that is generated without active involvement.
It is a way to make money while you sleep and can provide financial stability and independence.
This is one of three types of income and the one you want to strive towards building.
Ultimately, the best side hustle for making $1000 a day is one that meets your needs and interests while providing a good return on investment.
Here are several factors to consider before choosing the best option.
Think about your skills, interests, and availability. If you have a full-time job, you may want to consider a side hustle that allows you to work flexible hours.
Next, consider the earning potential of the side hustle you are considering. Some side hustles pay more than others, and you want to choose one that will give you the highest return on investment.
Additionally, consider the start-up costs associated with the side hustle. Some require significant investment, such as buying a car for ride-sharing apps or purchasing an online course.
Most importantly, choose a side hustle that aligns with your passion and expertise. This will make the work more enjoyable and increase your chances of success.
There are many ways to make money from your expertise.
You can start a consulting business, offer services such as coaching or speaking, create and sell information products, or build a following and sell advertising or sponsorships. The possibilities are endless.
What’s important is that you start somewhere and then take action to turn your expertise into cash.
Ready to Make 1000 in a Day?
There are many ways to make money quickly and easily.
The best way to make money fast is to find a way that best suits your skills and interests.
Whether it’s graphic design, content creation, photography, or trading stocks, there are plenty of opportunities to turn your passions into profit. So, start honing your skills and explore the endless possibilities of the gig economy.
Learning how to make quick money in one day is possible. You just need to be determined and disciplined.
So, which method do you choose on how to make $1k a day?
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
For years, the unquestionable leaders of the premium card market were The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve.
That all changed when Capital One shook up the industry with its debut of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees) in late 2021 — undercutting both of its rivals by offering competitive perks at a lower $395 annual fee.
Perhaps you’re one of the many Sapphire Reserve cardmembers who’ve questioned your loyalty to Chase with the launch of the Venture X. Or, maybe you’re on the hunt for your first premium travel rewards card.
Today, we’ll help you decide whether the Capital One Venture X or the Chase Sapphire Reserve is the better card for you.
Comparing the Capital One Venture X and the Chase Sapphire Reserve
Feature
Capital One Venture X
Chase Sapphire Reserve
Annual fee
$395.
$550.
Welcome bonus
Earn 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 in the first three months of account opening.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 in the first three months of account opening.
Earning rate
10 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel.
5 miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel.
2 miles per dollar on all other eligible purchases.
10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
5 points per dollar on flights through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
3 points per dollar on all other travel and dining.
1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.
Statement credits
Up to $300 in annual statement credit toward travel booked through Capital One Travel.
Up to $100 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, every four years.
Up to $300 in annual statement credit toward travel purchases.
Up to $100 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/Nexus credit, every four years.
Other card benefits
Priority Pass lounge access for the primary cardholder and complimentary access for two guests.
Capital One lounge access for the primary cardholder and up to two guests.
10,000 bonus miles received every card anniversary.
Complimentary Hertz President’s Circle status*.
Travel and purchase protections.
No foreign transaction fees.
Priority Pass lounge access for the primary cardholder and up to two guests.
Chase lounge access for the primary cardholder and up to two guests.
Complimentary car rental elite status with National Car Rental, Avis and Silvercar.
Partner benefits like a DoorDash DashPass membership (through 2024).
Travel and purchase protections.
No foreign transaction fees.
*Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at upgraded status level through December 31, 2024. Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Additional terms apply.
Annual fee
The annual fee on the the Sapphire Reserve is $550. Note that it costs an additional $75 to add an authorized user.
At $395 per year, the Capital One Venture X is one of the most affordable premium cards. Best of all, you can add up to four authorized users for no additional cost.
Winner: The Capital One Venture X for its lower annual fee for the primary cardholder and no additional cost for up to four authorized users.
Welcome bonus
Both cards require the same amount of spend in a given time frame ($4,000 in the first three months of account opening) to unlock their introductory offers.
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TPG values Chase Ultimate Rewards points slightly higher than Capital One miles due to its superior transfer partners — we estimate that Ultimate Rewards points are worth 2 cents apiece while Capital One miles are worth 1.85 cents apiece.
The Capital One Venture X’s welcome bonus of 75,000 miles is worth about $1,388, while the Sapphire Reserve’s bonus of 60,000 points is worth $1,200.
Winner: Capital One Venture X.
Earning
Which premium card will offer better returns in the long run? For this analysis, we factored in the value of each currency to their rewards rates:
Capital One Venture X
Chase Sapphire Reserve
Earning rate
10 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel (18.5% return).
5 miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel (9.25% return).
2 miles per dollar on all other eligible purchases (3.7% return).
10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Ultimate Rewards (20% return).
5 points per dollar on flights booked through Ultimate Rewards (10% return).
3 points per dollar on all other travel and dining purchases (6% return).
1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases (2% return).
Both the Venture X and the Sapphire Reserve offer fantastic returns for travel purchased through their respective portals.
While the Venture X offers simplicity, with 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases, the Chase Sapphire Reserve offers higher returns for two lucrative bonus categories — travel (booked outside of Ultimate Rewards) and dining purchases.
Chase defines travel as a broad category, including everything from rental homes and buses to rideshares and parking fees. Similarly, dining purchases include takeout and delivery services, widening the spectrum for what falls under this category.
Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve, as it offers bonus categories beyond travel portal bookings. However, non-bonus purchases only garner 1 point per dollar. If you’re the type of consumer who has a ton of varied spend outside of travel and dining, then the Venture X may be a better card for you for its simple earning rate.
Redeeming
With both of these programs, transferring your points to travel partners is the most rewarding way to redeem your points and miles.
The Chase Ultimate Rewards program is a long-time crowd favorite. You can transfer your Ultimate Rewards points at a simple, 1:1 ratio (so every 1,000 Chase points equates to 1,000 points or miles in a Chase transfer partner program).
On the other hand, the Capital One miles program has partners that transfer at a 1:1 ratio for the most part, but there are a few exceptions that transfer at a less favorable ratio.
Let’s compare the partners side-by-side (all transfer at a 1:1 ratio unless otherwise stated).
Capital One miles
Chase Ultimate Rewards
Aeromexico Club Premier.
Air Canada Aeroplan.
Air France-KLM Flying Blue.
ALL Accor Live Limitless (2:1).
Avianca LifeMiles.
British Airways Executive Club.
Cathay Pacific Asia Miles.
Choice Privileges.
Emirates Skywards.
Etihad Guest.
EVA Infinity MileageLands (2:1.5).
Finnair Plus.
Qantas Frequent Flyer.
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer.
TAP Portugal Miles&Go.
Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles.
Virgin Red.
Wyndham Rewards.
Aer Lingus AerClub.
Air Canada Aeroplan.
Air France-KLM Flying Blue.
British Airways Executive Club.
Emirates Skywards.
Iberia Plus.
IHG Rewards.
JetBlue TrueBlue.
Marriott Bonvoy.
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer.
Southwest Rapid Rewards.
United MileagePlus.
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club.
World of Hyatt.
As you can see, there are quite a few overlaps. While Capital One offers more loyalty partners, there are no domestic airlines (after it lost JetBlue TrueBlue as a partner).
Meanwhile, Chase offers three domestic airlines — JetBlue, Southwest and United — as well as one particularly lucrative hotel program, World of Hyatt.
Of course, both the Venture X and Sapphire Reserve offer other (less lucrative) redemption options, such as gift cards and cash back.
However, with the Sapphire Reserve, your points are worth 50% more toward any travel booked through the Ultimate Rewards portal, making your points worth 1.5 cents apiece. While this isn’t as rewarding as transferring your points to Chase’s transfer partners, this redemption option is useful if you are having trouble finding award space.
Meanwhile, the Venture X offers fixed-rate travel redemptions at just 1 cent per mile — and while this can be applied to any travel purchase you charge to the card, it’s still notably lower.
Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve. More partners doesn’t necessarily equate to more value, which is why we peg Ultimate Rewards points at a higher value than Capital One miles. And even the fixed-value redemption option is 50% more lucrative.
Other benefits
Let’s talk about what makes these cards truly premium.
For starters, there’s an up to $300 annual travel statement credit on both cards. However, the Venture X’s travel credit is less flexible since you’ll have to book all travel on the Capital One portal in order to receive reimbursement. Meanwhile, the Sapphire Reserve will automatically reimburse for any purchases under the “travel” umbrella up to the $300 limit — and they don’t necessarily have to be booked directly with Chase.
As for lounge access, both cards offer Priority Pass membership, giving you access to 1,300-plus lounges worldwide.
On the one hand, the Venture X gets you Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests, whereas the Sapphire Reserve limits to you to two free guests (and then $27 each for additional guests.) Where the Sapphire Reserve fights back is that you can visit Priority Pass restaurants and spas, whereas you’re limited to lounges with the Venture X.
Both issuers are getting into the lounge game themselves, with Capital One’s first lounge open at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and more to come. The Venture X gets you access.
Chase has its first U.S. lounge open in Boston and the Sapphire Reserve card will get you access.
Finally, both are Visa Infinite cards, giving you high-level travel and purchase protections. Both also come with ancillary benefits that won’t necessarily move the needle for prospective applicants (such as the 10,000-mile anniversary bonus on the Venture X and partner benefits with the Sapphire Reserve), but these perks are all worth taking advantage of if you decide to apply for either card.
Winner: Tie. While the Chase Sapphire Reserve’s $300 travel credit is much more flexible, the Capital One Venture X comes with 10,000 bonus anniversary miles. They’re very similar on lounges.
Bottom line
Both the Venture X and the Sapphire Reserve have their own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s impossible to generalize which card comes out on top.
However, for a much more manageable annual fee, the Venture X is a fantastic offering — if you don’t mind using the travel portal to unlock many of the benefits on the card.
For those who prefer to book directly with travel providers, the Sapphire Reserve is likely the better option for you — but at the cost of a higher $550 annual fee.
Official application link: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Official application link: Chase Sapphire Reserve
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
When the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card debuted in 2016, everyone talked about its high reward rate, lucrative six-figure welcome bonus, and amazing benefits. In fact, there was so much interest in the card that the company was depleted of metal credit cards when they couldn’t keep up with demand. For years, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® … [Read more…]
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card overview
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is one of the best-known travel rewards credit cards, featuring 5 points per dollar on travel booked through the Chase travel portal and Lyft purchases, 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs), 2 points per dollar on all other travel purchases and 1 point per dollar on everything else. These valuable points can be transferred to airline and hotel partners or redeemed directly for travel at a rate of 1.25 cents per point through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Card rating*: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
*Card rating is based on the opinion of TPG’s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
At TPG, we always get asked an important question from beginner travelers looking to plan trips: Which travel credit card should you start with?
We almost universally recommend the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card. It earns one of our favorite rewards currencies. It offers lucrative perks. It features a low annual fee. In fact, many of us started our journey into points and miles with the Chase Sapphire Preferred.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred is designed for frequent and casual travelers. With a $95 annual fee, it’s not an expensive card, which makes it an especially good choice for beginners.
The card is currently offering a sign-up bonus of 60,000 Ultimate Rewards points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
Here’s what you need to know about the Chase Sapphire Preferred and why it’s one of the best cards out there.
Ready to get the card? Apply here for the Chase Sapphire Preferred
Chase Sapphire Preferred welcome offer
With the Chase Sapphire Preferred, you’ll earn a sign-up bonus of 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, enough to take you just about anywhere in the world you want to go.
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This haul of points is worth a minimum of $750 when redeemed for travel through the Chase portal, but if you maximize Chase’s transfer partners, TPG’s valuations peg the full value of the bonus at $1,200.
Related: How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards for maximum value
Earning points on the Chase Sapphire Preferred
The Chase Sapphire Preferred has a simple earning structure that is easy to maximize:
5 points per dollar on travel booked through the Chase travel portal.
5 points per dollar on Lyft purchases (through March 2025).
5 points per dollar on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases of $250 or more (through March 2025, with a limit of 25,000 bonus points).
3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases (excludes Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs).
2 points per dollar on all travel not booked through the Chase travel portal.
1 point per dollar on everything else.
Related: Why you’ll want to pay the $95 annual fee on the Chase Sapphire Preferred
Redeeming points on the Chase Sapphire Preferred
When you’re ready to redeem the points you’ve earned with the Chase Sapphire Preferred, you’ll understand why the card shines.
Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal
You can use your points to purchase airfare, reserve hotel rooms and even rent a car through Chase Travel — all at a fixed rate of 1.25 cents per point. That means you don’t need to worry about blackout dates or finding award space; you’ll always have the option to book travel using your points. As long as there’s a seat for sale on the flight you want, or a hotel room available to reserve with cash, you can pay for it with your points.
Just note that hotel reservations booked through third-party sites (including Chase Travel) typically won’t earn points or count toward elite status qualification.
Transfer to Chase travel partners
It’s possible to receive more than 1.25 cents per point in value by transferring rewards to Chase 14 airline and hotel partners. Some of the best Chase transfer partners include Hyatt, United, British Airways and Singapore Airlines for fancy hotels or plane seats.
Pay Yourself Back
If you want to use the points from your Sapphire Preferred at a fixed value for something other than travel, consider Chase’s Pay Yourself Back option. Cardholders can use points for a value of 1.25 cents apiece to cover donations to select charities (through Dec. 31, 2023) or a value of 1 cent per point for gas station and grocery purchases (through Sept. 30, 2023).
Related: How to donate points and miles to help Ukraine
Chase Sapphire Preferred benefits
In addition to the sign-up bonus, there are many appealing perks on the Sapphire Preferred.
$50 annual hotel credit
You’ll receive a $50 statement credit on hotel stays purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal upon opening the card and each following cardmember anniversary. It’s automatically applied to your account each year when you make an eligible charge. Note that the $50 credit does not earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points.
Related: How to use the new $50 hotel credit on the Chase Sapphire Preferred
10% annual points bonus
Another change Chase added to the card is a 10% anniversary points bonus. Cardholders will receive a 10% bonus based on their total spending during the account anniversary year at a rate of 1 point for each $10 spent. For example, if you spent $100,000 on your Sapphire Preferred during your cardmember year, you’ll receive 10,000 bonus points at the end of the year.
Note that this 10% is calculated on the dollars you spent rather than the points you earned. You won’t receive additional points by leveraging the card’s bonus categories.
DoorDash
The Chase Sapphire Preferred also includes at least one year of complimentary DashPass membership with DoorDash, which gives you free delivery and reduced service fees on eligible purchases (activate by Dec. 31, 2024). There is a cost associated with using food delivery services such as DoorDash, but this can be a valuable benefit if you already use the service.
Travel protections
This card is an ideal choice to pay for travel bookings such as car rentals, cruises, plane tickets and hotels because of the comprehensive travel and purchase protections it affords. Among them, cardholders can expect the following:
You can read more about the Chase Sapphire Preferred shopping and travel benefits here.
Related: 7 Chase Sapphire Preferred benefits you might not know about
Which cards compete with the Chase Sapphire Preferred?
Many worthwhile mid-tier travel credit cards exist, but only a few can go toe-to-toe with the Sapphire Preferred. If trying to decide, think about which one’s earning formula suits your spending habit and which one’s transfer partners you’re more likely to maximize.
For additional options, check out our full list of the best starter credit cards.
Read more: Chase Sapphire showdown: Sapphire Preferred vs. Sapphire Reserve
Bottom line
If you’re ready to move beyond cash-back or fixed-value travel rewards credit cards, there is no better place to start than with the Chase Sapphire Preferred.
After its debut over a decade ago, it’s still regarded as one of the best rewards credit cards. It earns some of the most valuable points and is flexible enough to meet the travel rewards needs of practically every points and miles skill level. It also comes with a low enough price tag for many to be able to give it a try.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred continues to represent a solid value proposition for a wide swath of the public. So long as you’re using the card frequently enough to get more than $95 in value from the rewards earned and benefits utilized, this card is definitely worth the annual cost.
Apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred with an 60,000-point bonus.
For rates and fees of the Amex Green Card, please click here.
Additional reporting by Emily Thompson, Ryan Wilcox, Chris Dong, Stella Shon, Jennifer Yellin, Joseph Hostetler and Eric Rosen.
Do you want to make money driving for Instacart? This Instacart Shopper Review will show you how it works and how much money you can make delivering groceries.
Instacart is a popular website for people looking to earn extra money as shoppers and grocery deliverers. Acting as a middleman between customers and stores, Instacart allows you to turn your free time into a chance to make some extra money.
As an Instacart shopper, you can enjoy the flexibility of choosing when and where you want to work, making it an attractive option for those with busy schedules or seeking gig work opportunities.
Before deciding if you want to become an Instacart shopper, there are some things to think about. And, you may have some questions too.
In this Instacart Shopper Review, we’ll dive into an in-depth review of what it’s like to be an Instacart shopper, from shopper requirements and the sign-up process to tips for increasing your earnings and efficiency.
This information will help you make an informed decision about whether becoming an Instacart shopper is the right side hustle for you.
You can click here to sign up to be an Instacart Shopper.
Key takeaways:
It is easy to get started as an Instacart shopper.
The flexibility of being an Instacart shopper provides an opportunity to make extra money. You can choose your hours and there is no minimum you have to work.
Maximizing earnings and efficiency is essential for success as an Instacart shopper so that you can make the most money per hour.
There is no compensation for car maintenance or gas expenses. You are driving your own vehicle.
Instacart Shopper Review
What is Instacart?
Instacart is a grocery delivery service that allows you to view, select, and purchase products from a variety of stores online or through their Apple and Android apps. As a user, you can place an order for groceries, and an Instacart Shopper will fulfill your order and deliver it to your doorstep.
I have used Instacart many, many times in the last couple of years. The service has made my life so much easier, because sometimes I simply don’t have time to run to the grocery store or I may simply not have a car (such as when traveling).
Instacart is available in the United States and Canada.
Related content:
What is an Instacart shopper?
As an Instacart shopper, your main responsibilities include shopping for and delivering groceries to customers from stores like CVS, Publix, and Kroger. The amount of money you can earn depends on factors like order size, tips, and the distance traveled for deliveries.
To become a Instacart Full-Service Shopper, you’ll have to meet basic requirements such as:
Be 18 or older
Have a valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle
Own a smartphone with the Instacart Shopper app installed
Be able to lift heavy items (up to 40 lbs.)
You can click here to sign up to be an Instacart Shopper.
How does Instacart make money with grocery delivery?
Instacart makes money in a few different ways. They charge customers a delivery fee and a service fee for each order placed.
Usually, the prices of items on Instacart are higher than in-store prices. So, customers are paying a higher price when shopping on Instacart than if they just went to the store themselves.
Additionally, Instcart has partnerships with retailers that offer their services on the platform. So, they charge these companies a fee as well.
How much do Instacart shoppers make?
The amount of money that you can make as an Instacart shopper can widely vary depending on several factors such as location, order volume, tips, and your efficiency of shopping and driving.
Shoppers typically make around $11 to $20 per hour. Keep in mind that as an independent contractor, you may have additional expenses such as gas and vehicle maintenance to account for when calculating your earnings.
Where do Instacart shoppers shop?
There are many different stores that you may shop at as an Instacart shopper. These stores may include major grocery retailers, as well as specialty shops, depending on your area.
Stores where you might shop at through Instacart include Walmart, Walgreens, Aldi, Kroger, Publix, Petco, and more.
Instacart Shopper Requirements and Sign Up
Background Check
To become an Instacart shopper, you first need to pass a background check. The background check for Instacart means that you will need to give them some personal information and consenting to a check before being allowed to be a shopper.
This is so that they can protect Instacart customers, as you will be personally going to people’s homes.
Car and Insurance Requirements
To deliver groceries for Instacart, you will need to have a reliable car and meet any insurance requirements. This is because you will be delivering groceries, of course.
This also means that you will want to maintain your vehicle and make sure that it is in good working condition. After all, you do need to drive and deliver groceries, so you do not want your car breaking down on you.
Also, don’t forget to factor in the expenses that go along with driving, such as gas and regular maintenance, as part of what you are actually earning from Instacart. These expenses can add up quickly.
Cell phone and the Instacart App
To shop for Instacart, you will need a phone so that you can accept orders and see what you are supposed to be shopping for.
You will need a smartphone with either Android or iOS to access the Shopper app (iPhone 5 or Android 4.4 or newer).
You’ll also want to make sure that your phone meets the minimum requirements and has reliable cell service, as the Instacart app is what you need so that you can receive orders, choose your work hours, and more.
Instacart does not provide you a phone, you would be using your own phone.
How To Sign Up As An Instacart Shopper
To become an Instacart Driver/Shopper, you will need to:
Sign up for Instacart here: Go to the Instacart website or download the Shopper app to begin the registration process. You will have to answer some easy questions and confirm your cell phone number.
Submit application: Complete the form with relevant information and submit it for review. A local Instacart team will review your application, and if approved, you’ll receive an email with more instructions.
Onboarding process: Depending on your chosen role, you may be required to attend an in-person onboarding session where you’ll learn about Instacart’s policies and procedures. These are typically around 90 minutes long.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll be ready to start accepting orders and making money as an Instacart shopper.
Earnings and Payments
Pay Structure and Hourly Rate
As an Instacart shopper, your pay varies depending on the type of order and the size of the grocery batch. The company guarantees at least $7 to $10 for each full-service batch, where you pick, load, and deliver the order of groceries. On average, Instacart shoppers can earn between $11 and $20 per hour.
However, the actual hourly rate may fluctuate based on factors such as location and demand.
You can earn more by shopping when it is busiest. This is usually on the weekends and on holidays.
Tipping and Bonuses
In addition to the base pay, you can also earn tips from customers. Instacart allows customers to tip their shoppers, so providing excellent service can result in more generous gratuities.
There are also opportunities to earn additional bonuses through referral programs, promotional periods, and peak hours.
Keep in mind that while tips and bonuses can boost your overall earnings, they may not always be consistent or guaranteed.
Direct Deposit and Debit Card
Instacart shoppers receive payment via direct deposit or the optional Instant Cashout feature, which transfers earnings to a debit card for a $0.50 fee.
You receive payments weekly between Wednesday and Friday for services you provided the week before (from Monday to Sunday).
Shopping and Delivery Process
Grocery Shopping
Once you receive an order through Instacart, you will go to the designated store and find the items on the customer’s shopping list.
This means that you will be personally picking out the fruits and vegetables (please make sure to pick out good ones that are fresh), checking expiration dates on items, and more.
You will be personally going through the store and putting things into a shopping cart or basket.
Also, while shopping for a customer, you may also have to make replacements in case a requested product is not available (this does happen!). If there are any changes, then you will want to contact the customer through the app and confirm any substitutions with them.
Picking Up and Delivering Orders
After completing the in-store shopping, you will need to deliver the groceries to the customer’s doorstep.
Sometimes, the customer does have specific delivery instructions, such as placing the items at the doorstep or handing them over personally.
Pros and Cons of Being an Instacart Shopper
Advantages of being an Instacart shopper
As an Instacart shopper, there are several positives of this side hustle. This may include:
Flexible hours: You can choose when you want to work and decide on your own schedule.
No minimum hours required: You can work as little hours as you want. It’s all up to you.
Quick payment: Instacart pays its shoppers weekly or they also have an instant cash out feature.
Disadvantages of being an Instacart shopper
While there are benefits to being an Instacart shopper, it’s important to consider the negatives such as:
Driver expenses: As an Instacart shopper, you will have expenses such as gas, vehicle maintenance, and insurance. So, if you are making $20 an hour, you will want to make sure that you are still making money after all of the car expenses that you will have.
May need additional insurance: Depending on your car insurance, you may need additional coverage to work as an Instacart shopper.
Orders aren’t guaranteed: Just because you’re signed in and available to work doesn’t guarantee that you’ll receive orders.
Hidden costs: Using your personal vehicle can lead to additional costs, including depreciation and potential repairs. Keep this in mind when calculating your overall earnings from Instacart.
As you can see, there are many pros and cons of becoming an Instacart shopper. Some of these may not mean much to you, whereas others may make or break this side hustle gig for you.
You will want to determine if it is something you want to do as everyone’s situation is different.
Instacart Shopper Alternatives
If you are interested in becoming an Instacart shopper, then there are a few other side hustles that you may be interested in as well.
Some alternatives to Instacart include:
Shipt: This company also allows you to work as a personal shopper and offers flexible hours. Stores on Shipt include Costo, CVS, Harris Teeter, Sephora, Target, Winn Dixie, and more.
UberEats: If you are looking for something where you would not be personally shopping for groceries, then you may be interested in UberEats. With UberEats, you can deliver restaurant meals, groceries, and drinks.
Postmates: Another food delivery service, Postmates gives you the flexibility to deliver not only restaurant meals but also groceries and retail items.
DoorDash: This website focuses on restaurant meal deliveries. So, you would not be shopping for any groceries, just picking up and delivering meals.
As you can see, there are many alternatives to Instacart.
Tips for Increasing Your Earnings and Efficiency
Instacart Shopping Strategies
When working as an Instacart shopper, it’s important to choose batches/orders carefully. This will help to increase the amount you are earning and to make sure that you are picking the most profitable orders.
One factor worth considering is the distance to deliver the order- picking closer orders will save you time and fuel expenses. Another factor is the number of items in the batch. Larger orders may take more time but can result in higher earnings. Also, it’s important to be in an area with high demand to find more batches and have less competition.
Additionally, you should:
Familiarize yourself with the store layout to reduce shopping time.
Group items by category or aisles to complete batches more efficiently.
Time Management
As an Instacart shopper, you have the flexibility to create your own schedule. That means you can choose the most convenient time for you to work.
However, you’ll make more money if you work during peak hours. Typically, the busiest times tend to be weekends and early evenings when people finish work.
Consider the following tips to improve your time management:
Organize your day by taking into account peak hours and the time required to complete each batch.
Choose deliveries that are close together.
Save time by shopping at stores that you frequently visit, so that you know where items are located.
By applying these shopping strategies and time management practices, you can take advantage of the flexibility Instacart offers while maximizing your earnings and efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Instacart shopper pay for the food upfront?
As an Instacart shopper, you will be given an Instacart payment card to pay for the groceries. You do not pay for anything out of your own pocket. The amount on the Instacart card is usually similar to the amount on the order that you are shopping for.
How much can I earn as an Instacart shopper?
Pay is based on a combination of factors such as the number of items, weight, and distance. Instacart guarantees a minimum of $5 for delivery-only batches and $7 for shop and deliver batches.
Average pay is typically between $11-$20 per hour.
How do Instacart Shoppers earn money?
Instacart shoppers earn money through a combination of base pay, tips from customers, and potential bonuses or incentives.
The earnings depend on factors like order size, distance, and the number of batches completed.
As you can see, there are many different things that go into your page for this side gig.
Are there any vehicle requirements to become an Instacart Shopper?
Instacart allows shoppers to use a car or a bicycle for deliveries. Car shoppers must have a valid driver’s license, insurance, and a reliable vehicle.
Bicycles must meet certain requirements for carrying groceries.
What are the pros and cons of working for Instacart?
Pros:
Easy to get started as an Instacart shopper
Flexible schedule and you can choose your own shifts
Opportunity to earn tips
Exercise while working (walking and lifting groceries)
Cons:
Variable income
Wear and tear on your vehicle
Responsibility for gas and other driving expenses
What are common Instacart shoppers complaints? What is the downside of Instacart?
Some common complaints from Instacart shoppers include:
Inconsistent earnings
Difficulty in getting desired working hours or batches
No compensation for vehicle maintenance or gas expenses
What benefits are offered from Instacart?
Instacart shoppers, being independent contractors, do not receive traditional employee benefits like health insurance, paid vacations, or retirement plans.
However, they can benefit from flexible schedules, potential for tips, and control over how much they want to work each day and each week.
Does Instacart pay for gas?
No, Instacart does not cover gas expenses or any other vehicle-related costs for shoppers. These expenses are the responsibility of the Instacart shopper.
Can I choose my working hours as an Instacart Shopper?
Yes, one of the advantages of being an Instacart Shopper is the flexibility to choose your own working hours. You can log in to the app and accept or decline orders based on your availability.
How to make $500 a week with Instacart?
To make $500 a week with Instacart, you may need to strategize by working during peak hours, increasing your speed and efficiency, and delivering to higher-income areas for better tips.
It will require dedication, effective time management, and continued efforts to maintain good customer ratings.
What’s an in-store shopper?
Occasionally, Instacart hires for in-store shoppers. This is a position where you would be shopping for groceries, but not delivering them. The downside of this is that you will not get tips.
Is it better to do Instacart or DoorDash?
Instacart and DoorDash are a little different.
With Instacart, you are shopping for and delivering groceries.
With DoorDash, you are primarily delivering meals from restaurants.
So, the amount of time you spend on each order will be a little different, as is the skillset, and earnings.
Is it better to do Instacart or UberEats?
Similar with DoorDash, choosing between Instacart and UberEats will depend on what you want to do.
While Instacart focuses on groceries, UberEats specializes in restaurant food delivery. Consider pay rates, potential tips, the type of work, and your local market demand when making a decision.
Can I work for other delivery platforms while being an Instacart Shopper?
Yes, you can work for Instacart and other delivery platforms all at the same time. But, you will want to make sure to stay organized.
Is it worth it being a shopper for Instacart?
This is a personal question, as everyone is different. Some people love being an Instacart shopper, whereas for others, it’s not a good fit for them.
The ability to have flexible hours and earning potential can be attractive, but you still need to think about the car costs you will have as you will have to drive in your own vehicle.
Analyze your needs and research other Instacart shopper reviews to determine if it’s a good fit for you.
Instacart Shopper Review Summary
As an Instacart shopper, you can make extra money by delivering groceries.
With flexible work hours and typical average pay around $11 to $20 an hour, Instacart can be a good source of income for you.
Actual earnings can vary due to things such as tips, the number of orders, and the distance traveled for deliveries.
A positive of working as an Instacart shopper is the ability to make your own schedule. You can choose how many hours you want to work each day and each week, and there is no minimum amount of hours that you must work.
But, there are negatives to Instacart as well. As an Instacart shopper, there may be extra costs that you may not have thought of, such as gas and vehicle maintenance costs, and you might need to purchase extra insurance to cover your activities on the platform. These extra car costs can add up quickly if you are not careful.
Navigating the gig economy can be tricky, but Instacart may be a good way to make extra money for your situation.
You can click here to sign up to be an Instacart Shopper.
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