How to Make your Spending Work for You with a Rewards Credit Card

The holiday season brings so many meaningful moments: hanging lights, searching for the perfect gifts, gathering around the table, and traveling to connect with the people who matter most. It is a joyful time, but it is also one of the busiest and most expensive times of the year.

That is why making your spending work for you can make all the difference. With the right rewards credit card and a few smart strategies, every shopping trip, dinner out, and tank of gas has the potential to earn you something in return. Used wisely, your card becomes a helpful tool that supports your budget, protects your purchases, and rewards the traditions you love.

Turn Holiday Moments Into Future Rewards 

Think of every holiday purchase as a small step toward something you will enjoy later. A dinner out while shopping can earn 3x points. Filling the car before heading to Grandma’s earns 2x points.

At Arbor Financial, our Rewards Credit Card helps every trip, treat, and tradition go further with:

• 3x points on restaurants and travel
• 2x points on groceries and gas
• 1x point on everything else

Redeem your points easily online for travel bonuses, merchandise, or even future gifts, so you can start the new year with a little extra breathing room.

Learn more about the rewards credit card

Protection and Security for Peace of Mind While You Shop 

Holiday shopping often brings unexpected twists such as damaged deliveries, surprise charges, or gifts that do not arrive as planned. A rewards card gives you an extra layer of protection so you can shop with confidence.

With Arbor, every card includes:

• Visa Zero Liability Protection*
• Purchase and fraud protection
• Digital wallet compatibility for safe and easy tap-to-pay
• Card controls in the app so you can instantly turn your card on or off if it is misplaced or stolen

The holidays are busy enough. You deserve payment tools that make things easier, not more stressful.

Keep Spending Organized and in One Place 

The holidays can make your budget feel scattered, especially when purchases add up across different stores, events, and family gatherings. Using a single rewards credit card keeps your spending organized and easy to track.

With one centralized view of your transactions, you can:

• See exactly where your money is going
• Spot overspending before it gets out of hand
• Set helpful alerts and spending limits
• Plan for the month ahead with confidence

Arbor’s Mobile & Online Banking enhances this even further with Financial Tools, categorized spending, and card controls that help you stay in control of your budget all season long.

A Simple Way to Build Credit 

Using your rewards card responsibly and making on-time payments can strengthen your credit history. A strong credit score can open the door to better loan rates, higher credit limits, and more financial opportunities in the future.

Members can also monitor their free SavvyMoney Credit Score inside Mobile & Online Banking. Your score is updated daily, giving you the most current view of your credit health and the factors influencing it.

A Credit Card is a Great Tool When Used Wisely 

Rewards cards offer real benefits, but only when used with care. A few helpful reminders:

• Set a holiday budget before you begin shopping
• Only charge what you can comfortably pay off next month
• Turn on alerts to stay aware of your spending

When used thoughtfully, your credit card rewards become a partner during the holiday season, helping you earn rewards, stay protected, and maintain control of your finances.

Using your rewards credit card during the holidays is a wise financial decision that can help you save money, earn valuable rewards, and enjoy added conveniences and protections while shopping and traveling. However, it's essential to use your credit card responsibly and not accumulate more debt than you can afford to pay off. With responsible use, your rewards credit card can truly enhance your holiday season, making it more enjoyable and stress-free.

Learn more about our rewards credit card

* Visa's Zero Liability Policy does not apply to certain commercial card and anonymous prepaid card transactions or transactions not processed by Visa. Cardholders must use care in protecting their card and notify their issuing financial institution immediately of any unauthorized use.