Streaming for Free (and Earning Rewards!)

Who doesn't love free entertainment? Paramount+ often releases promotional codes for free trial periods, sometimes even for returning customers. While these offers are fantastic on their own, RewardSmart is here to show you how to amplify the benefits using the right credit cards.

Think of it this way: even a 'free' month can trigger rewards earnings. Here's how:

  • Activation Fees & Add-ons: Sometimes, a 'free' trial requires a small activation fee, or you might choose to add premium features (like ad-free viewing or Showtime access). Paying for these with a credit card that earns bonus rewards on streaming services is a smart move.
  • The 'Forget to Cancel' Strategy (Use with Caution!): We don't encourage forgetting to cancel, but it happens. If you accidentally get charged for a month, make sure it's on a card that maximizes your return. A card with streaming bonus categories or even just a general cashback card is better than nothing. Set a calendar reminder for the cancellation date!

Credit Card Strategies for Streaming Services

Beyond promotional periods, consider your long-term streaming habits. Many credit cards offer bonus rewards for streaming services. Here are a few examples of how you can strategically use different types of credit cards:

  • Streaming-Specific Bonus Cards: Some cards offer 5% cashback or equivalent points on streaming services. These are ideal if you subscribe to multiple platforms (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, etc.).
  • Rotating Category Cards: Cards that offer rotating bonus categories (like Discover or Chase Freedom) occasionally include streaming services. Keep an eye on the quarterly categories and switch your Paramount+ billing to that card when applicable.
  • General Cashback Cards: Even a simple 1.5% or 2% cashback card is better than using a debit card or a card with no rewards. These are a good fallback option if you don't have a dedicated streaming rewards card.
  • Subscription Management: Use RewardSmart to track your subscriptions and ensure you're using the optimal credit card for each service. This way, you won't miss out on maximizing your rewards potential.

Don't Miss Out: Setting Up Alerts

Promotional codes for streaming services are often time-sensitive. To stay informed about the latest deals, set up alerts for:

  • RewardSmart App Notifications: We'll notify you of relevant deals and offers.
  • Deal Websites & Blogs: Many websites specialize in tracking promotional codes and discounts. Doctor of Credit is one such source. Monitor these sites regularly.
  • Paramount+ Email List: Subscribe to Paramount+'s email list to receive notifications about upcoming promotions directly.

The Bottom Line

Even seemingly small savings like a free month of Paramount+ can be amplified with the right credit card strategy. Always pay attention to the terms and conditions of promotional offers, set reminders to cancel if you don't want to continue the subscription, and use a credit card that maximizes your rewards. By being strategic, you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies while earning cashback, points, or miles!