Credit Card Cash Values

💡 Maximizing the Value of Your Credit Card Reward Points

A quick rule of thumb: credit card reward points are generally worth about $0.01 per point when redeemed for cash back. However, you can significantly increase their value by redeeming them for travel-related rewards—especially hotels and flights.

The best value often comes from transferring points to travel partners or booking premium travel experiences. In contrast, cash back or statement credits usually deliver the lowest return.

To maximize your rewards, seek out redemption options that offer the highest per-point value, such as luxury hotel stays or international flights. Keep in mind that hotel redemption values can vary widely depending on the city and country, so it pays to compare before you book.

Credit CardsCash Value (conservative)Tip to Boost Value
Chase Ultimate Rewards$0.01 per point (cash back or statement credit)Transfer points to airline or hotel partners, or book travel through the Chase Travel portal for higher redemption rates.
Capital One Points$0.01 per point (cash back, statement credit, gift cards)Transfer points to airline or hotel partners, or use them for travel through the Capital One Travel portal.
American ExpressUp to $0.01 per point (cash back, statement credit, gift cards)Transfer points to airline or hotel partners, or book flights through American Express Travel for higher value.
Citi ThankYou Rewards$0.01 per point (cash back, statement credit, gift cards)Transfer points to airline or hotel partners, or use them for travel through the Citi Travel portal.
Marriott Bonvoy PointsVaries (average ~$0.007-$0.008 per point)Look for off-peak or last-minute award nights for potentially higher value than average.
Hyatt PointsVaries (average ~$0.018-$0.0227 per point)Use points for high-end hotel stays, which can often provide a much higher value than the average.