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    COVID & Cash Back: How Credit Cards are Helping Americans During the Pandemic

    It could be said that credit cards have always been somewhat controversial in the financial industry: they can either build your credit or destroy it, help pay off debt or dig you further in debt, give you rewards or pummel you with crazy interest rates. 

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    But in the year of COVID-19, credit card companies have worked to give consumers excellent reward opportunities, cash back, low interest rates, and debt forgiveness. While some people contemplated the value of rewards credit cards during the pandemic due to the lack to travel opportunities and being more frugal with spending, those who took advantage of cash back perks reaped the benefits and continue to do so as businesses open back up. If you’re interested in how a cash back credit card could benefit you, here are some of its best features.

    Cash You Can Use Anywhere

    One of the biggest perks of cash back credit cards is the simple fact that it’s literally cash that goes right back into your bank account. Some rewards credit cards don’t always help people unless they are shopping at a specific store or frequently taking trips. Cash back cards make it more convenient to use the money you earn and don’t hold you to any stipulations on where you can use it. Throughout the pandemic, people have seen this as free money they can either save or spend based on their needs.

    Special Categories for More Cash 

    Another great advantage to cash back cards is that some have special spending categories that allow you to earn even more cash back. These categories could include gas, groceries, restaurants, online purchases or much more. Each month, one category will be highlighted and whatever you buy from that category will give you the most cash back. For example, if online purchases receive extra cash back this month, then you could maximize your cash back by purchasing items you already need online versus in stores. Not only do you get what you need, but you also make money just by the special category feature. It’s a win-win situation, particularly for individuals and families who are trying to make ends meets due to layoffs and business closures.

    No Annual Fees

    One of the biggest things to look out for when choosing a cash back card is whether or not it has an annual fee. If you’re trying to save money, finding a card without that pesky annual fee can assure you are getting the most value. Also, if you’re making your monthly payments in full to avoid accruing interest on the balance, the card doesn’t cost a thing!

    Cash back cards are a great way to build credit and earn free money just by making paying for things you would be purchasing anyway. While it’s been helpful for many people during the pandemic, it is even more helpful now that businesses are open and asking for their community’s support. Consider finding a Telhio credit card that works for you!

    This is a multi-part sponsored series presented with paid support by Telhio Credit Union.

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    Telhio Credit Union is open to anyone who lives, works, worships or goes to school in Franklin, Fairfield, Delaware, Licking, Madison, Pickaway, Union, Hamilton, Warren, Butler and Preble counties. Founded in 1934, originally as the credit union for the Columbus Telephone Co., Telhio is a not-for-profit financial cooperative where its members are also its owners. Driven by its philosophy that members come first, Telhio is committed to the highest standards of responsibility and conduct. Telhio offers a variety of innovative programs, services and products to support its members’ financial needs. Telhio offers 9 branching offices throughout Central and Southwestern Ohio and nearly 4,000 shared branching locations nationwide. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #251831

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    Alex Noga
    Alex Noga
    Alex Noga is currently the Marketing Coordinator for Telhio Credit Union and is responsible for Telhio’s internal and external communications, marketing, and social media. He has worked in the financial industry for several years and loves representing a not-for-profit organization committed to helping people achieve their financial dreams.
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