Hidden Perks: 15 Credit Card Benefits You Probably Didn't Know You Had

Credit cards are often chosen for their points programs or cashback capabilities, but many users are unaware of the plethora of hidden perks that come with these plastic pals. Beyond the basic rewards, credit cards offer a suite of benefits that can save you money, enhance your travel experience, and provide peace of mind. Let’s explore 15 lesser-known credit card benefits you might be missing out on.

1. Extended Warranty Protection

Many credit cards extend the manufacturer’s warranty by up to an additional year on eligible purchases, providing extra security for your gadgets and appliances without any additional cost.

2. Purchase Protection

Bought a new phone and it was stolen or damaged within a few months? Purchase protection can cover the repair or replacement of items for a few months after purchase against theft or damage.

3. Price Protection

If you buy an item and then find it advertised for less within a certain time frame, your credit card company may refund you the difference. This perk is becoming rarer but is incredibly valuable for those who shop around.

4. Return Protection

If a store won’t take back an unwanted item, your credit card might. Return protection allows you to get a refund on items the store refuses to take back within a specified period.

5. Free Credit Score Access

Many cards offer free, monthly updates on your credit score, helping you stay on top of your financial health without paying extra for credit monitoring services.

6. Cell Phone Insurance

Paying your monthly cell phone bill with a qualifying credit card can provide you with insurance in case your phone is stolen or damaged, cutting the cost of cell phone replacement or repair.

7. No Foreign Transaction Fees

For the avid traveler, some credit cards waive foreign transaction fees, which can typically add about 3% to every purchase made abroad.

8. Travel Accident Insurance

Travel with peace of mind knowing that your credit card may offer insurance for accidental death or dismemberment during transit when you pay for your fare with the card.

9. Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance

If you need to cancel or cut short a trip due to unforeseen circumstances, your credit card might reimburse non-refundable travel expenses like flights and hotel bookings.

10. Baggage Delay Insurance

Receive compensation for the inconvenience of delayed luggage. This can cover essential purchases like toiletries and clothing until your baggage arrives.

11. Rental Car Insurance

Instead of purchasing insurance through the rental agency, check if your credit card offers collision damage waiver (CDW) insurance when you rent using the card.

12. Airport Lounge Access

Some premium credit cards offer complimentary access to airport lounges worldwide, which can be a haven during long layovers or travel delays.

13. Concierge Services

Like having a personal assistant, credit card concierge services can help you book reservations, find tickets, and even remember important dates.

14. Roadside Assistance

If you find yourself stranded due to a vehicle breakdown, your credit card may offer roadside assistance for services like towing, jump-starts, and tire changes.

15. Exclusive Events Access

Cardholders sometimes get first dibs on tickets for concerts, shows, sports, and other events, along with VIP packages not available to the general public.

These hidden benefits enhance the value of credit cards beyond mere financial tools. To make the most of these perks, read through your credit card benefits guide—it’s packed with details that could save you money and elevate your experiences. Remember, benefits vary by issuer and card type, so know what your card offers and take full advantage of these lesser-known perks!