Keeping track of which card to use

[McNugget]

I'm new to this game of using cards for rewards, so I was wondering how other people keep track of which card to use where. Eventually it will become muscle memory.

Right now I use Google Keep and have a pinned widget. It's sorted by category, then by highest point/reward. It's simple and quick to scroll through. Might help me plan which card to apply for next.

[Matt9543]

I use the Mint app by Intuit, and yeah you have to sign in to your accounts but I've had zero issues with it.

[wasCB14]

I don't bother with such apps. They don't seem have a good grasp of bonus category definitions, let alone factor in certain promotions or relevant card benefits.

My wallet has a clear plastic ID insert. I used to write Freedom and Discover rotating categories on a 1.25x1.25 inch bit of paper and keep it visible that way.

[Anonymous]

I have a note on my iPhone but it’s not really that difficult for me to track. 

Rotating categories - Discover 5%

Groceries - NFCU Amex 3%

Utilities - BBVA 3%

Dining - NFCU Amex 2%

Everything else - PayPal Cashback 2%

If you keep your cards simple, it becomes second nature when using them. 

I also keep my grocery card in the front slot since it comes out the most, PayPal Cashback goes in the slot behind it, and Disco goes behind that, BBVA card I stick in the back of my wallet with my debit cards and my sock drawer cards. 

[Shooting-For-800]

It can be difficult (see signature).

I usually think about it for larger purchases.

I also used a label maker on cards my wife uses since she cares so much less.

[pinkandgrey]

Wow, I’m a serious OCD person, but I’m not organized when it comes to this. My strategy is the tried-and-true “step up to the cash register and stand there for 5 minutes with a pensive look on my face while I debate which card to use.” Lol your idea sounds good. 

[Shooting-For-800]

How about making a credit card sized cheat sheet?

Type it up on your computer and use packing tape to laminate it.

Pull it out of your wallet to make a decision (ideally before you need to pay.)

I think I am going to do that!

[JaseT]

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@pinkandgrey wrote:

Wow, I’m a serious OCD person, but I’m not organized when it comes to this. My strategy is the tried-and-true “step up to the cash register and stand there for 5 minutes with a pensive look on my face while I debate which card to use.” Lol your idea sounds good. 

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[JaseT]

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@Shooting-For-800 wrote:

How about making a credit card sized cheat sheet?

Type it up on your computer and use packing tape to laminate it.

Pull it out of your wallet to make a decision (ideally before you need to pay.)

I think I am going to do that!

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This is exactly what I do! On the other side of the cheat sheet I have all of my due dates and statement dates for each card so that I can maintain AZEO.

[Save-n-Invest]

I arrange or rearrange the cards in my wallet for best rewards use. April will be easy. Freedom and Discover change bonus categories, fuel and groceries. If a card is out of rotation for a time period I remove it and leave it at home.