Rewards and other cards with points systems and long lists of benefits can vastly enhance a FI/FIRE plan with the savings and purchase protections that come built in. These cards can also be a ‘nice perks’ part of your financial independence and early retirement plan if used correctly.

Higher-end rewards cards offer an array of nice savings, reimbursements, insurance and other financial protections that someone on a ‘cash’ only budget would not have access to. However, care needs to be taken with any kind of credit and in order to properly use these cards you will need a plan so you don’t get lost in the weeds and end up not getting the sign-up bonus points.

But first, lets clarify what it is we are going to be doing.