9 Rewards Programs To Take The Pressure Off Your Monthly Budget

Are you someone who craves the best of both worlds? Looking to maximize your savings while indulging in everyday luxuries? If so, you’re in good company.

Many people are discovering the benefits of using rewards programs to ease the financial strain and stretch their monthly budgets further. Rewards programs are no longer only for one thing; you can redeem your rewards points for all sorts of rewards!

I love being rewarded for spending money I was already going to spend. It’s like a little treat that helps me stay on track with my budget and even enjoy extra perks. Here are my favourite rewards programs and how I use them to maximize my spending and stick within my budget.

My Favourite Rewards Programs

Air Miles: More Than Just Miles

One of my go-to rewards programs is Air Miles. I collect Air Miles wherever they’re available, but I take it to the next level by using my Air Miles Mastercard and signing into airmilesshops.ca before making online purchases. This strategy helps me rack up miles quickly. I love using my Air Miles for Sephora e-vouchers, free Uber Eats deliveries, and even free groceries at Metro.

Aeroplan: Points for Purchases

Aeroplan is another rewards program I embrace. My personal credit card accumulates Aeroplan points, which I strategically use to cover my everyday expenses. Aeroplan is not just for flights! I find redeeming these points for gas, Sephora, and Starbucks gift cards especially satisfying. Using my rewards points helps me execute my no-spend months with ease!

Amex Membership Rewards: A Business Bonus

For my business spending, I turn to Amex Membership Rewards. These points are versatile, and I enjoy redeeming them for shopping at Walmart, gas, and Amex gift cards. It’s a great way to get more value from my business expenses.

PC Optimum: Points Everywhere

PC Optimum is my choice for collecting points wherever they’re accepted, including at the gas station, Shoppers Drug Mart, and No Frills. The best part? I can redeem them for practical rewards like free car washes.

Scene+: Making Movie Magic

If you’re a movie enthusiast like me, you’ll appreciate Scene+. I earn points wherever Scene+ is accepted, such as Cineplex and Freshco. I love redeeming these points for free movies – it’s like having a private screening whenever I want that I don’t need to budget for.

Sephora Beauty Insider: Where Beauty Lovers Unite

Sephora is my go-to beauty store, and I collect Beauty Insider points with every purchase. These points translate to $10 off my total order and even free products. It’s a fantastic way to get rewarded for beauty.

McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Tim Hortons: Sip and Snack Rewards

I don’t miss a beat when it comes to fast-food rewards. I use my apps at McDonald’s for their delicious coffee and redeem my points for free meals. With the Starbucks app, I load up with gift cards I’ve redeemed or by completing surveys, collecting Stars for more free Starbucks. Tim Hortons is a must for me, and I ensure I collect points to get my free coffee fix.

Receipt Jar: Turning Receipts into Cash

What if I told you that you could turn everyday receipts into cash? I use the Receipt Jar app to upload my receipts and earn points. I prefer to redeem my Receipt Jar points for cash via PayPal. While many gift card options are available, I like receiving the cash – it’s a direct boost to my budget.

Amazon Shoppers Panel: Extra Credit for Sharing Your Receipts

I also maximize my Amazon purchases through the Amazon Shoppers Panel app. By uploading my receipts, I earn a monthly $5 Amazon credit, which I can use for my next Amazon purchase.

Make Life More Rewarding And Ease Pressure On Your Budget

Using rewards programs isn’t just about saving money – it’s about getting the most out of your spending. These programs allow me to stay within my budget while enjoying valuable extras. So whether you want to try collecting Air Miles, Aeroplan, or another favourite rewards program, why not give it try? The next time you shop or dine out, consider the rewards programs available and watch your budget stretch further. Check out some of the other rewarding programs we participate in on our Resources Page.