 TITLE: How Credit Card Issuers Classify Dining Purchases CONTENT: How to Maximize Dining Rewards Credit Cards\n-------------------------------------------\nGiven just how many types of businesses may count toward a credit card's dining bonus category, it's not hard to maximize dining rewards credit cards. However, to make absolutely sure you're getting the most out of your rewards cards, consider doing the following:\n*   **Pick the right card**. Dining rewards credit cards range from those that charge no annual fee and earn cash back, like the Chase Freedom Unlimited®, to high-end products that earn travel rewards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, with its $550 annual fee. Many rewards credit cards earn cash back, while the Ultimate Rewards points the Chase cards earn are good for cash back in addition to travel rewards and other possibilities. Consider the types of rewards you want to earn and whether the value of the points or cash back you earn will outweigh a card's annual fee each year before submitting an application.\n*   **Use your card for dining purchases whenever possible**. If you have a card that earns bonus rewards on dining, be sure to use it for dining purchases, including takeout and delivery services. Otherwise, you could be leaving rewards on the table.\n*   **Look out for caps and maximums**. Certain credit cards cap the rewards you can earn in various categories, including dining.\n*   **Take advantage of limited-time bonuses**. Other credit cards earn bonuses on categories that rotate each quarter, and it's worth leveraging them to the fullest. For instance, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ earns 3% cash back on dining and 5% cash back at different places each quarter when you activate, which might include wholesale clubs or grocery stores, then 1% back on everything else. Not only that, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ is offering an introductory bonus that allows cardholders to earn 5% on grocery store purchases (except at Walmart and Target) on up to $12,000 in spending for the first year.\n*   **Call your issuer**. If you think that a purchase should have been coded as dining but wasn't—it happens all the time due to those pesky MCCs—don't be afraid to call your issuer and ask them to reconsider adding extra rewards to your account. The worst they can do is say no.\nIf you have a credit card that earns bonus rewards at restaurants, it's important to understand how issuers classify dining rewards and which purchases will count. Then, make sure you use your card (responsibly) for any eligible charges to earn the most rewards possible. For more information and guidance, check out Experian CreditMatchTM for credit card offers matched to your credit profile that could earn you bonus rewards on dining. END