How to Earn Rewards on Your Mortgage, Car Payment and Other Major Monthly Bills

Paying bills can be a chore but with the right strategy, some of your largest monthly expenses could actually work for you.

According to MarketWatch, payments like rent, mortgage, and car loans can generate cash back, points, or miles if you’re smart about the tools you use and the fees you avoid.

Start with your biggest bill: the mortgage

Your home loan is likely your largest recurring expense, so finding a way to earn even 1% back could mean real savings over the year.

Services like Plastiq and Bilt, according to MarketWatch, let you pay your mortgage or rent by credit card — typically for a fee. It’s crucial to weigh whether the points or cash back are worth more than the added cost.

This approach can also help some users meet spending thresholds for credit card welcome bonuses. For instance, timing an insurance payment to coincide with a new card sign-up may help unlock bonus points, but only if the fee doesn’t cancel out the benefit.

Car payments may require more creativity

Many auto lenders don’t accept credit cards directly, which MarketWatch notes is a common barrier.

However, some banks and dealerships allow ACH transfers. If so, using a rewards debit card may let you earn modest perks without incurring interest charges.

The key is to verify what your lender allows — and whether any fees apply — before setting up payments through alternate methods.

Everyday expenses can still add up

Once you’ve explored options for your biggest bills, look at smaller recurring charges that may be eligible for rewards.

According to MarketWatch, services like Netflix, Spotify, your phone plan, gym memberships, and insurance premiums are all potentially reward-eligible — especially when paid with a credit card that offers category bonuses or a flat-rate on all purchases.

Some utility companies also accept card payments, but check for added fees that may outweigh any benefit.

Even 1% or 2% cash back can add up over time, especially if you pay these bills monthly. And because many of these expenses are already budgeted, you’re not spending extra to earn points.

The mistake that cancels your gains

MarketWatch emphasizes a major caveat: rewards aren’t worth it if you carry a credit card balance.

Interest charges quickly wipe out the benefit of cash back or points. If you pay 20% APR and earn 2% back, you’re likely losing money, not gaining it.

Stick to a strict rule: Only use a rewards card for bills you can pay off in full every month.

Build a sustainable system

Make a list of recurring charges and identify which can be paid with no fees. Pair those with the right cards — whether for groceries, streaming, or flat-rate rewards — and automate payments where possible.

Track card fees and rewards to ensure you come out ahead. Premium cards often come with higher reward rates but must be justified by the perks you use.

Even small changes, like paying an annual insurance premium all at once, may increase the rewards you earn without any extra effort.

Keep it simple, not stressful

You don’t need a dozen cards or an elaborate spreadsheet to benefit from rewards. A single well-chosen card, paired with your regular bills, can offer meaningful returns.

As MarketWatch points out, the house wins if you carry a balance. So stay focused on what you owe, not what you can squeeze into a points game.

Used wisely, rewards cards can turn monthly bills into small wins, without costing you more.