# Rewards cards rules make benefits harder to get

> Rewards cards now require more effort to use, but smart choices still pay off.
- Title: Rewards cards rules make benefits harder to get | Shortify
- Summary: Rewards cards now require more effort to use, but smart choices still pay off. Credit card perks are becoming harder to access due to complex rules, but…
- Keywords: rewards cards, annual fee, credit card perks, statement credits, chase sapphire reserve, amex platinum, bilt program, credit card tracker apps, spending thresholds, hotel credits, business, finance
- Source: Yahoo Finance — https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/currencies/articles/benefits-kind-going-away-rewards-123000499.html
- Published: 2026-09-17T12:30:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: rewards cards, annual fee, credit card perks, statement credits, chase sapphire reserve, amex platinum, bilt program, credit card tracker apps, spending thresholds, hotel credits, business, finance
## Rewards cards fees rise
Around 16% of credit cards have annual fees, with the average annual one totaling $127.
## Luxury cards charge high fees
The Mastercard Black Card runs $699 a year, while the American Express Platinum charges $895 annually as of August 2026.
## Perks become harder to use
Cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Platinum, Amex Gold and Bilt program have added credits but raised annual fees.
## Experts warn about quality of perks
Banks are scaling back on the quality and ease of use of rewards and perks, requiring more effort from cardholders.
## High spending thresholds
Many perks require high minimum spending thresholds and long lists of statement credits to justify the annual fee.
## Hotel credits are tricky
Hotel credits often require booking through the card issuer's portal and may not cover the full stay cost.
## Real value matters more
A $200 credit isn't worth $200 if it causes you to spend with a company you otherwise wouldn't use.
## Marietta Williams cancels card
Marietta Williams canceled her Amex card after a fee increase from $695 to $895 and a rule change for airport lounge guests.
## How to use rewards cards wisely
Match card credits to existing spending habits and calculate if credits cover the annual fee.
## Tools for tracking rewards
Use credit card tracker apps, spreadsheets, or notes to manage credits and benefits effectively.
## Check cards before renewal
Add up spending before renewal to ensure credits cover the annual fee or switch to a better card.
## Key takeaway

Credit card perks are becoming harder to access due to complex rules, but finding the right card and using it wisely can still provide value.