Feeling down about your rising gas bills? Gas rewards credit cards can help! These cards offer you a chance to earn money back on your fuel purchases. There are plenty of reward plans to choose from. Before you apply, here's what you need to know about gas rewards credit cards.

How Gas Rewards Credit Cards Work

Gas rewards credit cards are similar to cash back cards. Most operate on a percentage system. Every time you purchase fuel, a certain percentage of cash is returned to you. This usually ranges from 1 to 6%. So if you spend $200 on fuel each month and have a card that offers 5% cash back, you will receive a reward of $10 each month. How's that for pumping fuel?

Some gas rewards credit cards operate on a point system. You earn points based on your fuel purchases. These points can then be redeemed for dollars. Your cash is returned to you either through a check in the mail or as a credit to your card statement.

Plenty of Options

Gas rewards credit cards come in many varieties. Some card companies offer gas cards that earn rewards only at certain gas stations. If you regularly fill up at one place, this may be a good choice for you. Other companies allow you to earn cash back at any gas station. If you tend to vary where you purchase gas, this type of card will work better for you.

Some gas rewards credit cards also allow you to earn points or cash back on purchases besides gas. These may include a 5% cash back offer on gas purchases and 1% cash back on others. Or they could include a higher percentage back on both gas and auto maintenance purchases. If you want to use your card at a variety of stores and gas stations, one of these plans may benefit you the most.

Most gas rewards credit cards offer an initial introductory period with extra benefits. This might include a 0% or low APR for the first few months. Also, your card may offer extra points or a higher percentage of cash back on purchases for the initial period. This gives you a way to earn extra cash right from the start. If you are traveling more than usual or are already putting in plenty of miles on the road, the gas reward credit card can give your wallet an added boost at the beginning.

What's Right for you

Keep in mind that most gas rewards credit cards require you to have good or excellent credit. Also, many of them include a higher interest rate than other credit cards. So if you pay off your credit card bills each month, you can reap the rewards. However, if you usually carry a balance from month to month, a different credit card may work better for you.

Evaluate your spending habits and travel budget. If your fuel bill is usually high, gas rewards credit cards are an excellent option for you Look through the different gas rewards credit cards available and find one that will benefit you the most. Then apply online for a gas reward credit card. It is a great way to get some money back for a needed expense.