IT’S OVER: Why I Quit Maximizing Credit Cards (6 Reasons)

Тәжірибелік нұсқаулар және стиль

IT’S OVER. I’M DONE maximizing every purchase with credit cards. It’s time for a SIMPLE credit card strategy that still gets the job done. Learn why in this video. Click “Show More” to see Ad Disclosure.
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00:00 - Intro
02:46 - Reason 1
5:53 - Reason 2
9:38 - Reason 3
10:36 - Reason 4
12:18 - Reason 5
13:16 - Reason 6
In this video, I share my personal journey of why I decided to quit maximizing credit card rewards. For years, I was dedicated to squeezing every ounce of value out of my purchases by meticulously juggling multiple credit cards to earn the highest rewards possible. However, what started as a quest for financial efficiency soon became a source of stress and overwhelm.
I found myself constantly strategizing which card to use for each purchase, keeping track of rotating categories, and managing various bonus structures. While the allure of cash back, points, and travel miles initially motivated me, the burden of maintaining this complex system began to take its toll (i.e. WAY too much stress!).
As the pressure mounted, I realized that the pursuit of maximizing credit card rewards was consuming too much of my time and energy. The constant calculations, tracking, and optimizing detracted from the joy of everyday spending and saving, and ultimately, I was left with decision fatigue on too many purchases.
Ultimately, I made the decision to simplify my financial life and prioritize peace of mind over squeezing out every last cent of value from my purchases. I’m working on scaling back to using just a few cards that align with my lifestyle and spending habits.
In sharing my experience, I hope to spark a conversation about the hidden costs of maximizing credit card rewards and the importance of finding a balance that works for you. Join me as I discuss the lessons learned and the freedom I found in letting go of the credit card maximization race.
Disclosure: The thoughts, opinions, and information presented are those of the creator. This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as CreditCards.com, YourBestCreditCards.com, Biltrewards.com and others. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. The content in this video is accurate as of the posting date. Some of the offers mentioned may no longer be available. Mark Reese is not a financial advisor.
#creditcards #bestcreditcards #creditcard

Пікірлер: 284

  • @MarkReese
    @MarkReese2 ай бұрын

    📲 MAXREWARDS - Use promo code “markr” markscreditcards.com/maxrewards 💳👇 CREDIT CARD OFFERS (Learn More!) markscreditcards.com/offers 🛍 RAKUTEN - Earn Cash Back! markscreditcards.com/rakuten ⬆ (More links in Description below video!)

  • @SolidLiquidFox
    @SolidLiquidFox2 ай бұрын

    This is Mark's super villain origin story. We'll track down his spiral to credit card madness to this moment.

  • @anthonywilliams9415

    @anthonywilliams9415

    2 ай бұрын

    😂😂

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    🌪

  • @coltonschmucker8633
    @coltonschmucker86332 ай бұрын

    I got out of the whole game.. i didn’t like having 10 different cards for 10 different things with 10 different accounts and payee’s to keep track of. Decided to just stick with Amex and stick with Gold and Platinum. Calling it a day. Lol

  • @czube83

    @czube83

    2 ай бұрын

    I’m pretty close to just settling on the same setup. I’m sure there are setups that net more points but I like the perks and use enough of the credits that it makes sense for me.

  • @pjb7490

    @pjb7490

    2 ай бұрын

    I'm not as Spartan as you but I'm close, I have the Amex trifecta and just the Apple card for when Amex isn't accepted.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Simplicity rocks 💯

  • @Dopadroid

    @Dopadroid

    2 ай бұрын

    Doesn't sound like you're out of the whole game then lol. I would say getting out of the game would be sticking to a 2% cashback card for everything and calling it. That or stop using credit cards all together. If anything, I'd recommend you get the BBP so you can at least complete your amex trifecta

  • @BruceLeeCredit

    @BruceLeeCredit

    2 ай бұрын

    Gold for dining and grocery. Any bonvoy credit card for 2x catch all. Bonvoy business for gas. Sapphire preferred for most travel related expenses for now, and sometimes dining and online grocery.

  • @pachabee
    @pachabee2 ай бұрын

    I'm just starting to get credit cards and I was wondering how people manage this kind of stuff. This video, and comments, show me that people definitely do get burned out

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    😄👍

  • @docsays

    @docsays

    2 ай бұрын

    - ya some do, but many do not. In my case, ive had credit cards since the 1990s 😮 but started going hardcore with cards in 2018 & still love using them & modifying my setup

  • @sketchyAnalogies

    @sketchyAnalogies

    Ай бұрын

    That's true, but YMMV. For me, I have under 10 cards and no Amex credits to worry about. I largely ignore my Discover it (sorry buddy) and my Citi DC is sock drawered. You can get bogged down by complicated cards, but most cards are mostly simple, and max rewards takes care of you. What gets annoying and super complicated is the amex coupon book cards. I like my current setup, though I'm looking for another card or two. Every card has its role. I only have one transferrable currency to focus on, and everything else is cash back or co-branded.

  • @soapa4279

    @soapa4279

    Ай бұрын

    It depends, some people really feel like it’s a game and have fun with it. Others get hardcore analytical to maximize every cent. The latter tends to burn out.

  • @czube83
    @czube832 ай бұрын

    Between your last video and this one, you’re singing my heart song 😂. This video more than any other one I’ve seen really “pulls back the curtain” on the “maximize every dollar” mindset, which is overwhelmingly the focus in the points/miles community. There’s simply an ever increasing amount of mental & physical labor and ever diminishing returns once you go beyond a simple card setup IMO. You really nailed the reasons here. Thanks for what you do Mark!

  • @nubianpwr

    @nubianpwr

    2 ай бұрын

    well said...

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Glad it resonated well with you! Gotta find a balance 👌

  • @Sci-Fi_Fan296

    @Sci-Fi_Fan296

    2 ай бұрын

    This is such a great comment. I couldn’t agree more.

  • @FictitiousCreed
    @FictitiousCreed2 ай бұрын

    I know it's technically less value, but I appreciate the simplicity of just earning cash back on the money i was going to spend regardless of rewards anyway.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💵💯

  • @newagain9964

    @newagain9964

    2 ай бұрын

    Yup. But how many cards u using to accomplish that? 2? 6?

  • @FictitiousCreed

    @FictitiousCreed

    15 күн бұрын

    @@newagain9964 Sorry i'm just now seeing this, but my my ideal setup has ~5 cards for different categories. I want to avoid annual fees as well since i don't know if the value i get out of them year to year will match up with any fees.

  • @royce1510
    @royce15102 ай бұрын

    Number 6 is why I quit maximizing. There’s no point settling into a setup or worrying about what percentage I’m getting back when there are so many bonuses to get. Just 1 or 2 a year can give you equal value to the most optimized setup

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    That's right! 🏆

  • @benchoflemons398
    @benchoflemons3982 ай бұрын

    I don’t think having a lot of cards bothers me, coupon books bother me. Cards with large AFs bother me

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @jimmyjames6492
    @jimmyjames64922 ай бұрын

    We're simplifying our setup as well for all the reasons you mentioned + the crazy AF hikes. Thanks for the info + video!

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Simplicity is warmly welcomed right about now!

  • @jeremycain2491
    @jeremycain24914 күн бұрын

    Thanks for update on the card strategy!

  • @anthonywilliams9415
    @anthonywilliams94152 ай бұрын

    Yeah......that's quite a bit to keep up with. Superb video.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Sure is! Thank you 👊

  • @ChrisD1865
    @ChrisD18652 ай бұрын

    Nailed it… finding something simple and rewarding to my own specific lifestyle has worked great for me. Very few people in this space are talking about this!

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    That's right!

  • @ys-cal
    @ys-cal2 ай бұрын

    For me the main problem is that sooner or later you run out of sign-on bonuses you can get by opening new cards, so then your everyday spend is not enough to generate meaningful reward points anymore.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    There are always more signup bonuses.

  • @LK_EBM
    @LK_EBM2 ай бұрын

    Totally agreed! Juggling multiple credit cards is exhausting. I rather take the time to spend with friends and family, or make more money!

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Yep!

  • @newagain9964

    @newagain9964

    2 ай бұрын

    Yup. It’s why I specifically don’t like Chase. Low earners and juggling.

  • @thecleaningteacher638
    @thecleaningteacher6382 ай бұрын

    Sage advice….I’ve been having all of the same thoughts. Can’t wait to see your follow-up video.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @Sci-Fi_Fan296
    @Sci-Fi_Fan2962 ай бұрын

    I’m all for simplifying my setup as well and am moving in this direction. Looking forward to seeing your updated setup for some ideas.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Let's make it happen 👊

  • @nysy97
    @nysy972 ай бұрын

    This was a very interesting video. Thanks for the thorough breakdown :) Am looking forward to your personal setup video. Also, I’m interested how hotel cards play into this setup, if at all.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it!

  • @TheRestrictedgamer
    @TheRestrictedgamer2 ай бұрын

    I'm at the point in my life where time is more valuable than money. Could I spend a bunch of time trying to squeeze every last cent out of a credit card rewards program? Sure. Or.... I could knock out another class for a Master's degree and get a promotion that brings in more additional money every single month than any credit card would give me in a year. I'm not against trying new things and shopping around for the best option for any given lifestyle, but shopping should not become a lifestyle.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @jordan23ww
    @jordan23ww2 ай бұрын

    Great video! Thank you for the info and insight!

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍🎬

  • @TorisGarage
    @TorisGarage2 ай бұрын

    perfect timing ! I was just pondering if branching out into different issuers would be worth it but looking at my spending, I feel I’m better off just settling with one issuer and building up those points !

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Glad this helped!

  • @robertgallacher9288
    @robertgallacher92882 ай бұрын

    US Bank Cash+ for Utilities and Streaming 5% AAA Daily Advantage for Groceries 5% AAA Travel Advantage for Gas 5% Citi Custom Cash for Dining 5% Chase Prime Visa for Amazon 5% Amex Delta Gold Card is my catch all for everything else

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Great card choices!

  • @devlin76

    @devlin76

    2 ай бұрын

    I thought you could only have one of the AAA cards.

  • @newagain9964

    @newagain9964

    2 ай бұрын

    6. I dig it. Rate My setup: cap1 duo, USBAR. Secondary is Amex plat (FHR, THC, and 3-4 great offers yr) and Wyndham biz earner (utilities = Cpl cashless position hotel stays yr) 👍 I missed out on 40% lodging discount because I don’t have Mastercard. Maybe get journey (aka elevated choice pts card) to remedy. That would be 6👍.

  • @jayray202
    @jayray2022 ай бұрын

    Great content! I’ve enjoyed your past two uploads a lot! When’s the next video dropping?

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank, glad you enjoyed it! Likely tomorrow.

  • @TheSimpleDollarShow
    @TheSimpleDollarShow2 ай бұрын

    Maximizing every purchase requires too many cards 😅

  • @havalopez

    @havalopez

    2 ай бұрын

    If you’re team cash back, robinhood as a 3% catch all will simplify a lot of set ups

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Yes it does 😅

  • @Sci-Fi_Fan296

    @Sci-Fi_Fan296

    2 ай бұрын

    @@havalopezthe robinhood gold card has some interesting requirements in order to get it.

  • @TheSimpleDollarShow

    @TheSimpleDollarShow

    2 ай бұрын

    @@havalopez - Indeed! Hope to see the card launch soon.

  • @thomasjohnson2916
    @thomasjohnson29162 ай бұрын

    Excellent CC knowledge!!!!

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @Icewave2007
    @Icewave20072 ай бұрын

    My setup is fairly simple. Everyday type card (Amex) - No AF, no FTF, 3x: groceries, gas, restaurants, transit Everyday type card (Visa) - No AF, no FTF, 2% everywhere, also backup in case the 3x Amex isn't accepted Hotel (Amex) - AF, no FTF, free night, status, primary CDW for car rental for a small fee, 1 small recurring charge per month Hotel (MC) - AF, no FTF, free night, status, 1 small recurring charge per month, trusted traveler reimbursement Of course there are other benefits and features, but that's my setup for simplicity, main features, and a decent amount of rewards.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @ottoernst6707
    @ottoernst67072 ай бұрын

    Add the Citi custom cash onto that and you’ll have a ton covered

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    🏆

  • @CBRboy1717
    @CBRboy17172 ай бұрын

    Amen. I canceled my Platinum and Gold cards. I’m only rocking the Capital One duo right now except I have the higher tier Savor card since we eat out a bunch. The only thing I plan on doing is getting the Amex Hilton card for the free night cert to bolster my honeymoon stay. Having to deal with all kinds of credits on multiple cards was exhausting and I ended up wasting so much money by forgetting or getting too busy to use credits.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @newagain9964

    @newagain9964

    2 ай бұрын

    Why did Amex cancel? How long did u not use them?

  • @flubberghosted2472
    @flubberghosted24722 ай бұрын

    Mark keeps it real! 💯💯💯

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    😎👊

  • @DallinBunnell
    @DallinBunnell2 ай бұрын

    I can understand wanting to simplify. Things can certainly get complicated fast! As far as managing different accounts, I use Monarch money to see all of my transactions and balances accross all of my financial accounts (banking, investing, credit cards, loans, etc). This has really helped me to keep track of my budget and my credit card balances without getting overwhelmed. I'm curious to see what you've come up with! Good luck on this next chapter of your journey!

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for mentioning Monarch!

  • @vinup6406
    @vinup64062 ай бұрын

    Awesome insight . Thanks

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    You bet!

  • @sol_nb7143
    @sol_nb71432 ай бұрын

    Yeah, I’m feeling the same. I have like 7 or 8 cards I use and I’d love to have a simpler 2 or 3 card setup that I can focus on to get a better return on points and not spread everything around

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @khanscombe619
    @khanscombe6192 ай бұрын

    💯. Makes good sense.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @robert8311
    @robert83112 ай бұрын

    Pick a trifecta or duo and be done with it I prefer Wells Fargo, Chase or Citi to I can get cash back in the future and not much thought if I have 1 issuer maybe 2 in case clitches

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @invisiblebiscuits
    @invisiblebiscuits2 ай бұрын

    I personally think after about 5 cards the returns get way too diminished, and the hassle of maintaining/maximizing them gets too onerous. Stick with 4-5 good cards and be done. Across no more than 2-3 ecosystems. The rest is overkill. I chose cards for my 3 highest spending categories (rent, food, travel), plus a catch all card and a rotating one for some spice. Works well.

  • @jaredvasquez9216

    @jaredvasquez9216

    2 ай бұрын

    I agree, I'd prefer to just keep my card total at around 5 cards. At the moment I have nine and it's more than I care to have to keep track of.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    🏆

  • @kevinManhattan
    @kevinManhattan2 ай бұрын

    I agree with all. But I am about 5 years into this card game and still in that "honeymoon" phase. So I will do this as long as I can handle it. But it seems like it all comes down to this. So someday I will probably follow the suit. Can't wait for your simple card line up video Mark!

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Enjoy the honeymoon!

  • @user-bk4zc3rh7x
    @user-bk4zc3rh7x2 ай бұрын

    Thank you

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    You bet!

  • @Turnip_Tyme
    @Turnip_Tyme2 ай бұрын

    Personally, I favor the Capital One Cards more than the rest because of no Foreign Transaction fees on all the cards & I can go travelling without really notifying Capital One.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    🏆

  • @user-fw3iz8xu7t
    @user-fw3iz8xu7t2 ай бұрын

    X1, the one and done card. 5 weekly broad category boosts for x3 or x4, depending if you hit the month bonus after $1k spent, and always x5 on gas. Categories like tap pay, grocery store, restaurants, drug store, Amazon, Star Bucks. Best of all being a Visa, they work at Costco with the gas and grocery boosts. Add a player 2 and you get double the amount of weekly boosts (10). We run 4x catch all card on most purchases. Boosts reset every Thursday. It's a simplified version of Amex offers that meets purchase erasing of Capital One.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @Notthecobracommander
    @Notthecobracommander2 ай бұрын

    I agree it can get overwhelming pretty quickly that's why from the start I promised I would use no more than three login portals in addition to the two I already have for my Banks. Second I agree it is better to have usable Point quantities rather than spreading out for maximum coverage what I do is make sure whatever spend categories I assigned to each card are enough to get rewards that I can actually use for a specific booking ie 27000 Wyndham points for 2 free nights. 7500 annual bonus plus 6x on fuel station purchases.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    🏆👍

  • @ds5651
    @ds56512 ай бұрын

    I use the chase trifecta and hotel cards hyatt,marriot, and ihg. Great balance of maxing points but simple enough to remember. Also all in the same eco system.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    🏆🏆

  • @smileychess

    @smileychess

    Ай бұрын

    Having one app makes a huge difference. I have it down to 2 apps and it’s still too much.

  • @soapa4279
    @soapa4279Ай бұрын

    After getting all SUBs possible, I think just picking an ecosystem that fits your lifestyle, you could do a 3 card setup and be just fine.

  • @De_Guatemala
    @De_Guatemala2 ай бұрын

    Between you and Richard Debs, I was convinced to get the CITI trifecta, especially while travelling outside the US (Premier's 3X categories). I cancelled the Plat out of exhaustion.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    I'm liking what Citi has to offer right now. Good choice 👍

  • @Spinattitude
    @Spinattitude2 ай бұрын

    Great point on the small balances being kinda useless across a lot of programs.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    👍

  • @l.a.rivasesq.8841
    @l.a.rivasesq.88412 ай бұрын

    I’m retired and the credit card game is my hobby. But, I’ve discovered that 15 cards is as much as I can handle. I use a different app to keep track of my cards and I also don’t seek to perfectly maximize my spend. However, you’ve got to take care of yourself and focus on what benefits you the most. I can see why someone like you, who can’t use most of the benefits of the cards, should simplify.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    What app do you use?

  • @l.a.rivasesq.8841

    @l.a.rivasesq.8841

    2 ай бұрын

    CardPointers. Mostly because I was an early adopter and paid one lifetime subscriber fee and because I didn't trust the other app with my passwords and account numbers.

  • @rellrell9457
    @rellrell94572 ай бұрын

    Omg! 😱 yes My CC set ups drag me a lil crazy …. 🙃

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    😄

  • @MarkS-cd3cw
    @MarkS-cd3cw2 ай бұрын

    The best video I have watched in a while. I just got the Amex platinum and it’s a great signup offer of 175k but I’ll be honest I am burned out as well. I’d like to just earn as normal and keep it simple. I just closed my Amex gold because of the annual fee but I have mixed feelings on it. I’m eagerly waiting for your next video.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed the video & congrats on the approval for the Amex Platinum Card w/ 175K offer!

  • @125henni
    @125henni2 ай бұрын

    For me its 2 Citi custom cash cards (one for Grocery 1 for gas) and a either the citi double cash or the Chase Freedom Unlimited.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Great choices 💯

  • @NCKyle1980
    @NCKyle19802 ай бұрын

    I doubt you would be as extreme as me but I had a charge minimum one-time with a bank welcome bonus for debit card purchases. So as an idea, when you go grocery shopping, break your order up to each item being one transaction. You easily buy over 5 items. Easy way to knock out your Built requirements monthly in one sitting. Assuming no fine print about 5 days of transactions not 5 individual ones regardless of posting. Hope all goes well for you! Thank you for all you do for us.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Great that you made it work! Not something I'll personally do though 🤙

  • @Hexsae
    @Hexsae2 ай бұрын

    Max Rewards being the sponsor for this video is hilarious

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    😂

  • @Hail2th3k1n6
    @Hail2th3k1n62 ай бұрын

    I have a five card cash back setup right now. I'm working on two bonuses right now. I'm thinking about closing one or two of them. I'm managing right now, but it's starting to get somewhat crazy.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @tendercrispbacon
    @tendercrispbaconАй бұрын

    I just got the pnc cash unlimited, that and my built card seems a pretty good duo

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    Ай бұрын

    Congrats on the approval!

  • @fantasma619
    @fantasma6192 ай бұрын

    My end game is to accumulate BOA cash rewards cards then select categories for each and get 5.25% back on most my spend no need to keep track of rotating category. I have platinum honers

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Fantastic 🏆

  • @craigmargolies7335
    @craigmargolies73352 ай бұрын

    I have multiple BofA cards that get me 5.25% on restaurant if I want also discover and a freedom and freedom flex card. I also have the altitude go which is unlimited at 4% the pain of adding up restaurant charges to make sure I don’t go over the spend limit is making me consider just using the altitude go taking a small hair cut and having all my restaurant charges on only one card, awesome video one that needed to be done as is long over due

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    🏆

  • @user-cd5iu7lw4s
    @user-cd5iu7lw4s13 күн бұрын

    I came to this same conclusion about 3 years ago. the ONLY time I care about these cards and ONLY the Chase Freedom Flex is when Amazon is one of the categories (like right not). Not worth the mental space.

  • @cws-07
    @cws-072 ай бұрын

    @MarkReese: I agree about the problems with trying to maximize categories. I think there are also problems with chasing SUBs given, as you acquire more cards, you have to manage them (e.g., check for fraud, put small spend on them, etc.). I find that I can optimize as much as I care to with my 10 card setup. I have two grocery cards (because of caps), two dining cards (one for when I want more Hyatt points and one for when I want more cash back), one gas card, one utilities card, one Amazon card, one Target card, one hotel card (for when I want more Hyatt points), and one everything else card (for when I want more cash back). I could drop down to eight cards and still optimize, but I would lose the versatility of my 10-card hybrid setup.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Great that you found a setup that works well for you!

  • @MrDIJEN15

    @MrDIJEN15

    2 ай бұрын

    Drop the 10 card setup. I want to know and which are for which please.

  • @cws-07

    @cws-07

    2 ай бұрын

    @@MrDIJEN15 1. Citi Custom Cash: mostly for 5% cash back on groceries up to $500 monthly cap, but also for occasional month of 5% on travel, 5% on home improvement stores, or 5% on live entertainment and Citi Merchant Offers 2. Amex Blue Cash Preferred: mostly for 6% (4.4% after annual fee subtracted) cash back on groceries up to $6,000 yearly cap, 6% on streaming, and Disney Bundle Credit, but also for Amex Offers and purchase protections 3. Wells Fargo Bilt Mastercard: mostly for 3-6x points on dining (when I want more World of Hyatt points), cellphone protection, and Rent Day, but also for 2-4x points on travel, 5x points on Lyft, primary auto rental CDW, purchase protection, travel protections, and no foreign transaction fee Mastercard 4. U.S. Bank Altitude Go: mostly for 4% unlimited cash back on dining (when I want more cash back), but also for streaming bonus, Cash Back Deals, and no foreign transaction fee Visa 5. FNBO Ducks Unlimited (grandfathered): mostly for 5% cash back on gas (inside convenience stores and at pump), but also for 5% on sporting goods 6. Elan Financial Max Cash Preferred: mostly for 5% cash back on home utilities and entertainment (broader than U.S. Bank Cash+ equivalent) with no required quarterly enrollment, but also for occasional quarter of 5% on electronic stores 7. Affinity FCU Cash Rewards: mostly for 5% cash back at Amazon without Amazon Prime, but also for no foreign transaction fee Visa 8. TD Bank Target RedCard Mastercard: mostly for 5% discount at Target, but also for no foreign transaction fee Mastercard 9. Chase World of Hyatt: mostly for annual free night award at a Category 1-4 Hyatt after cardmember anniversary, annual extra free night award at a Category 1-4 Hyatt after $15k in purchases, 4x points at Hyatt, 2x points on transit, and 2x points on airlines, but also for Chase Offers, purchase protections, travel protections, and no foreign transaction fee Visa 10. AOD FCU Visa Signature (grandfathered): mostly for unlimited 3% cash back on non-category spending, after the $15k of World of Hyatt spending, but also for fixed 7.49% APR and no foreign transaction fee Visa

  • @newagain9964

    @newagain9964

    2 ай бұрын

    Bruh. Close the cards after 12-24 mos. Most cards are not keepers. 😂. I collect subs not cards like it’s pokeman. 🤓

  • @ArcherNoble
    @ArcherNoble2 ай бұрын

    FU and CSR DONE. gets me what I need .

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @newagain9964

    @newagain9964

    2 ай бұрын

    🫡

  • @boondoggle4820
    @boondoggle48202 ай бұрын

    For me, strategizing with the rotating category cards and trying to figure out ways to most strategically place my spending is what makes the credit card game fun. I don’t really deal with the redemption side because I haven’t redeemed any of my points for travel yet, only my cash back cards which is straightforward. Perhaps once I start having to figure out travel redemptions I’ll feel overwhelmed as well, lol.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @jellybean7253
    @jellybean72532 ай бұрын

    Same!

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @michaelkeaton32
    @michaelkeaton322 ай бұрын

    I see the VX as a core card in your upcoming video.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    😬

  • @dcnfsu2
    @dcnfsu22 ай бұрын

    Haha I had that moment. 20 mins flying by cuz I went thru loggin in different accounts to find the card to use out of my 7 card setup 😅

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    😁👍

  • @arnoldestrada8583
    @arnoldestrada85832 ай бұрын

    Got the Venture X as my first travel credit card for work. Its really a no brainer card due to the 2x on every other purchase. I just got the Amex Gold for dinning, groceries and sign up bonus. Might get another card for cashback for gas but i qould be okay with just these 2 cards.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Congrats on the approval!

  • @flam6229
    @flam62292 ай бұрын

    I wanna get into travel cards tbh but i kinda thought this Im thinking of doing wells fargos autograph or autograph journey

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    This video should help you navigate a lot of the card options out there 👍 kzread.info/dash/bejne/fouKzNywebXRe5M.htmlsi=Ev80JvQvBBRjTHON

  • @Sinisterniinja
    @Sinisterniinja2 ай бұрын

    All you need is the us bank altitude reserve and chase freedom flex

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    For cash back, and perhaps domestic travel, those 2 make a great pair.

  • @theinternationalist1357
    @theinternationalist13572 ай бұрын

    Professor Reese, this is a funny vid. Too stressful with a bunch of cards.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    😅

  • @WrldExplorer
    @WrldExplorer2 ай бұрын

    My $25 Uber, $10 Amex Gold card credit, and Marriott Brilliant credits, I always save those for the last week of the month. I also have this week to plan my Marriott free night reward also. As far as Bilt, I know after those credits, to just use that card on the 1st-5th, because my billing cycle ends on the 26th of the month. I just have a schedule that I stick to.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @robert8311
    @robert83112 ай бұрын

    Autograph + active cash and be done I also add savor one and freedom flex sense I actually bank with Chase and capital one so I check those log ins anyway no extra work imo

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @ClassicIX
    @ClassicIX2 ай бұрын

    I play the card game but with relaxed approach so I don’t get burned out and h only the process. I try my to max my points but if I forget to I don’t really care and it doesn’t bother me. If you take this approach then it’s easy to maintain. Simple

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    🏆

  • @TheZombaslaya
    @TheZombaslaya2 ай бұрын

    Honestly I’m going to pick up the altitude reserve and the platinum card and call it quits for this reason.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @newagain9964

    @newagain9964

    2 ай бұрын

    That’s 2 of my 5 card setup. And if I had to cut down to just 2. Yeah. Prob those. But hon mention to cap1 duo 🫡.

  • @docsays
    @docsays2 ай бұрын

    I think i have around 25 cards, but i only use 7-8 regularly. For me i still like them & like modifying my setup periodically. 😎

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Impressive! It's a fun game for sure. Makes sense to only use a limit number on a regular basis.

  • @mlodyme3675
    @mlodyme36752 ай бұрын

    Some valid points. I can see how getting points/miles from different cards can create chaos. That is why I am cash back team and that segregation does not matter to me. At the end of the day if I earn random amounts on 5-6 cards, it still adds up to the same amount as if I used 1 card. That is the beauty of the cash back game. Also, I hate the rotating categories and dont have any cards of that kind in my portfolio.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Cash back = awesome 💵 High flexibility and can be combined easily.

  • @chadpennycuff
    @chadpennycuff2 ай бұрын

    There's something to be said for simplicity. You have enough cards in the deck to garden multiple ecosystems between subs.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Yep 👍

  • @jacobfain6504
    @jacobfain65042 ай бұрын

    I never liked the idea of diversifying my points earned because of this reason. But to each his own. Some people may enjoy this. I still chase SUB's but at the end of the day I know my end game setup will always be my quadfecta with Chase.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @TheAudioCzar
    @TheAudioCzar2 ай бұрын

    This is what's keeping me from getting the Bilt card. Yes I'm earning points but it's another card to manage.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    😁👍

  • @fogrunr5075
    @fogrunr5075Ай бұрын

    I was at 171,000 total credit line. I dropped it to 139,000. That pushed my FICOs into the 820s.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    Ай бұрын

    💯

  • @habeshafinance1710
    @habeshafinance17102 ай бұрын

    Still advertising max rewards

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Yep.

  • @sikwithin
    @sikwithin2 ай бұрын

    I never understood why people get so many CCs. Just get one or two that fit your lifestyle and keep it simple. I think once you’re over 4 it becomes more work than it’s worth. Just my opinion.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Probably the biggest reason is the welcome offers. There's no faster way to accumulate rewards to reduce the cost of travel than those offers.

  • @J-Kunath
    @J-Kunath2 ай бұрын

    I can’t wait for the Robinhood gold card…. 3% percent back on literally everything. I’m done playing these credit card games lol

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    🙌

  • @joec1920
    @joec19202 ай бұрын

    If it's no longer fun, then it makes sense to end the game. Personally, I do it for fun. I'm already doing businesses with many banks, so adding an additional credit card does not make things that much more complicated especially since autopay is already setup. One question to ask is, what is the minimum amount that someone pays you, in lump sum or in an annually basis, for you to quit the game (no more new cards + reduce to 2-3 cards only)? Obviously, it has to be less than or equal to the amount of $ you're taking annually from the banks. How much less of that would you accept so that you don't have to play the game any more? Another thing to consider is that the complexity is mostly from things like the travel point system, annual fees, coupons, etc. If you just have a bunch of 5% no annual fee (non-rotating) cashback cards, it's not that difficult to manage. Then, just have 1-2 travel cards that meet just your basic travel needs. That's how I do it without being overwhelmed.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @timothymoore1791
    @timothymoore17912 ай бұрын

    Good 😮 Very very rough strong knowledge Credit card strategy

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💪

  • @nicholaselia7943
    @nicholaselia79432 ай бұрын

    Why don’t you get the credit wander card……..5x on restaurants any restaurant And fast food ……and 5x on gas ……..and the5x on travel no portal

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    No transfer partners and the rewards categories don't match the areas in which I spend most.

  • @SOXGATORS
    @SOXGATORS2 ай бұрын

    👍🏻

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    👍

  • @ismascarade
    @ismascarade2 ай бұрын

    I guess you did either a lot of closures or products downgrades to not keep the cards you don't use w/ high annual fees?

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    I've close many accounts over the years, but I still have more cards open than closed. Still paying high fees.

  • @61britchie
    @61britchieАй бұрын

    I have a Visa with 2k limit. That is all I need. I pay it off every month

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    Ай бұрын

    Paying it off every month is the way to do it, well done 👍

  • @JohnDoe-vp1bo
    @JohnDoe-vp1bo2 ай бұрын

    I get a ton of value from FHR, but am willing to pay for “nicer” hotels w/ cash.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Great to hear! 💯👍

  • @boy_named_niel
    @boy_named_niel2 ай бұрын

    To be honest, once you got a system in place, it’s second nature. In my opinion, having a credit/debit card is like going to the airport. When using a debit card, it’s like you’re just walking to the airport for a couple hours. No research, no money investment, just walk straight for 5 hours till you see the airport. When you are using an all-in-one credit card set up, it’s like you’re taking a taxi. Sure, you are saving a lot of time by just taking a taxi, and it’s really straightforward. However, you are sacrificing the money needed to do that, just like sacrificing the potential rewards you could’ve gotten having multiple cards. Using the same analogy with multiple card set ups, to get to the airport, I would walk to the bus, check for the bus schedule, get on the bus and make sure to find out where to get off, and take the train, then the airport. this way, I saved time and money. Sure, was it the cheapest or fastest? No. But it did maximize the value I get from the small time investment I made.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    👍👍

  • @banderson1979
    @banderson19792 ай бұрын

    That sound effect you are using is probably from iPhone and terrible. Also managing 5% is just as bad as Amex coupons. This was not a very interesting video.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for letting me know!

  • @SimplyJack3
    @SimplyJack32 ай бұрын

    4:13 i was at step 2.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    😄

  • @tomrockefeller4620
    @tomrockefeller46202 ай бұрын

    The Pareto Principle.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    🏆

  • @samkawer
    @samkawer2 ай бұрын

    Just use a flat 2

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @rogerrains5131
    @rogerrains51312 ай бұрын

    I agree 100%. Ultimately, credit card rewards are just a discount on spend. Sure a 2-5% discount on your cost of living could help you out. But, I would argue it really doesn't matter if you're just spending that extra 2-5% on other junk. You have to learn how to get a 8-12% return on that 2% you saved.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    🏆

  • @smileychess

    @smileychess

    Ай бұрын

    Big reason I’m considering the Fidelity 2% card and be done with the game.

  • @latitudenattitudeguy
    @latitudenattitudeguy2 ай бұрын

    Topic, thumb up. Sound effects, naa

  • @kcsguitar

    @kcsguitar

    2 ай бұрын

    fully agree was really unnecessary and distracting

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for the feedback!

  • @iLOVEsarrycrey
    @iLOVEsarrycrey2 ай бұрын

    Oh BS! The itch never quits!

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    😂

  • @feefee8627
    @feefee86272 ай бұрын

    I own 3 credit cards tried applying for my 4th credit card but got denied it was with citi bank😮❤

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Bummer. Did you find out the reason why?

  • @feefee8627

    @feefee8627

    2 ай бұрын

    @MarkReese Not yet applied yesterday they gave me the 7-10 business day message. I needed this card for traveling points😲

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    @@feefee8627 - Consider calling the reconsideration line.

  • @feefee8627

    @feefee8627

    2 ай бұрын

    @@MarkReese OK thanks

  • @flacostarr
    @flacostarr2 ай бұрын

    If you are a high earner with a large amount of disposable income, then trying to get an extra point here or there is a waste of time and energy. That brain power should be used to focus on the acquisition of more wealth.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    💯👍

  • @Leoprieto74
    @Leoprieto742 ай бұрын

    I still have a lot of free time to manage my 15 cards setup and maximize all my perks and benefits (and points maximization),…I guess I have nothing better to do 😊. I may need to find a Girlfriend 🤓.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Enjoy it! 💳

  • @RipVondy
    @RipVondy2 ай бұрын

    too many thumbs up sounds btw, just constructive feedback for ya

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for letting me know 💯

  • @Waz90
    @Waz902 ай бұрын

    Make the beeping power point presentation stop 😑

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    😁👍

  • @jetski335
    @jetski3352 ай бұрын

    😮😅😊

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    All of the emotions 👌

  • @ociinos
    @ociinos2 ай бұрын

    I got really into the credit card game during the pandemic, but as life started normalizing, the maximization felt burdensome. So I decided to just carry my Amex Gold as my go-to everyday card and have my Costco Visa for places that don't accept Amex. And the bonus is that I don't have to open my app or carry my membership card because its already on the back of my visa. Makes life a bit more simple.

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Solid 2 cards 💳💳

  • @IgorPetruk1989
    @IgorPetruk19892 ай бұрын

    Am I the only one that feels like he advertises spyware on every single videoo as a "no brainer free money app"? Maybe company partnership does not allow him to actually explain the bussiness model, but it's presented as free cheese

  • @MarkReese

    @MarkReese

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for sharing your view, Igor!

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