Stop leaving points on the table.

Points on the Table finds the card that works hardest for your spending—before fees quietly take their cut.

U.S. card terms snapshot: October 7, 2026

$
$0$5,000+
3 What is one point worth to you?

Cash-back cards stay at face value. Use a higher value only if your redemptions reliably beat 1¢ per point.

Subtract annual feeBetter for choosing a new card

Your best play

1.0¢ per point

Make every point earn its seat.

A headline multiplier is only the opening bid. The real winner depends on where you spend, what your points are worth when redeemed, and whether the annual fee earns back its place at the table.

Multipliers are category-specific

“3× dining” means three points per dollar only when the merchant codes as dining. A café inside a hotel may code differently.

Point value changes the answer

Cash back is simple. Travel points can be worth more—or less—depending on the redemption. Use a value you can defend, not a headline.

Fees need a break-even test

Compare annual rewards after the fee, then count credits only when you would have paid for those purchases anyway.

Interest beats rewards

A month of revolving interest can erase a year of rewards. Optimize only if you pay the statement balance in full and on time.

Method & sources

Estimates use only the category and spend entered, assume 12 equal months, and exclude welcome offers, statement credits, redemption bonuses, rotating categories, taxes, and merchant-specific promotions. “Net” subtracts the standard annual fee. Terms and eligibility can change; confirm with the issuer before applying.

Informational estimates only—not financial advice or an approval recommendation. Affiliate placements, when added, may compensate the publisher.