Heads up, RewardSmart users! If you're a fan of inKind for discounted dining and supporting local restaurants, there are some important changes you need to know about. inKind has recently updated its terms, impacting how you can use their platform alongside your existing credit card rewards strategy.

What's Changed?

The biggest shift is the removal of the ability to stack offers. Previously, some users were able to combine inKind cash with other promotional discounts offered by restaurants within the inKind network. This is no longer the case. Additionally, there have been adjustments regarding the utilization of inKind Cash, potentially limiting its overall value.

What This Means for Your Credit Card Strategy

This change impacts how you should approach using inKind in conjunction with your credit card rewards. Before these changes, you might have prioritized using inKind to get the initial discount, then paying with a card that offered bonus points on dining. Now, you need to be more strategic.

Here's a breakdown of how to adjust your approach:

  • Evaluate Each Restaurant Individually: Before visiting a restaurant on inKind, compare the inKind price with the potential rewards earned by using a different credit card. For example, if your Chase Sapphire Reserve earns 3x points on dining, calculate the value of those points against the inKind discount. Is the discount still worth it?
  • Prioritize Category Bonuses: If the inKind discount is marginal, prioritize using a credit card that offers bonus rewards on dining, such as the American Express Gold Card (4x points on US restaurants, up to $25,000/year) or the Capital One SavorOne card (3% cash back on dining). The points or cash back you earn might outweigh the limited discount provided by inKind.
  • Consider Alternative Dining Programs: Explore other dining rewards programs offered by major credit card issuers. These programs often provide bonus points or cashback for dining at specific restaurants. Compare these options to the inKind offerings to determine the best value.
  • Monitor for New Promotions: Keep an eye out for new promotions from inKind or restaurants within their network. While stacking offers might be gone, new opportunities for maximizing rewards could emerge. Check the RewardSmart app regularly for updated deals and promotions.

Actionable Takeaways

  1. Re-evaluate your inKind strategy: Don't automatically assume inKind is the best option. Compare the inKind price to the rewards you could earn with a dedicated dining credit card.
  2. Calculate the value of points: Know the value of your credit card points. A seemingly small percentage back can add up quickly, especially with premium cards offering travel redemption bonuses.
  3. Stay informed: The world of credit card rewards is constantly evolving. Use RewardSmart to stay up-to-date on the latest deals and promotions.

By adapting your approach and carefully evaluating each dining opportunity, you can still maximize your credit card rewards even with these changes to inKind's terms. It's all about being informed and making strategic decisions!