Earning 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in rotating categories can add up quickly—but getting the full value takes some strategy.
Here’s how to hit the cap every quarter and stretch your rewards year-round:
1. Time Big Purchases With the Calendar
Why it matters: Some bonus categories align with major spending moments—planning makes all the difference.
What to do:
- Postpone large purchases like furniture, appliances, or tools until the home improvement quarter (often Q2).
- Book travel or airfare during Q4 if travel is a featured category.
- Buy electronics at Walmart in Q4 if it’s included.
✅ Example: Instead of buying a $1,000 couch in February, wait until April–June if home improvement stores are eligible.
2. Leverage Digital Wallets for Extra Flexibility
Why it matters: Categories like PayPal or Walmart Pay let you earn 5% across many different retailers.
What to do:
- Link your Freedom Flex to PayPal and set it as your default payment method.
- Use Walmart Pay in-store to ensure purchases are eligible.
- Shop with PayPal at places like eBay, Etsy, or small online retailers.
✅ Pro tip: Even if a merchant isn’t directly listed, purchases processed via the bonus wallet may still qualify.
3. Set Reminders to Stay On Track
Why it matters: Missing activation or overspending past the $1,500 cap means missed rewards.
What to do:
- Add reminders for Jan 1, Apr 1, Jul 1, and Oct 1 to:
- Activate new 5% categories.
- Review your spending progress.
- Use budgeting tools or a spreadsheet to monitor qualifying purchases.
✅ Pro tip: Tag your Flex purchases to easily track category spending.
4. Use the Right Card for the Right Spend
Why it matters: Outside the bonus categories, Freedom Flex earns just 1%—not ideal.
What to do:
- Use Flex only for rotating 5% categories.
- Pair with another card like Freedom Unlimited (1.5% on everything) or Sapphire Preferred (travel/dining perks).
- Match each purchase to the best card for the job.
✅ Example: Use Flex for gas in Q2, and Unlimited for other everyday buys.
5. Buy Gift Cards at Eligible Merchants
Why it matters: Gift cards let you lock in 5% rewards even if your current spending falls short.
What to do:
- Buy gift cards at bonus category stores (e.g., Amazon at grocery stores in Q1).
- Use them later, even after the category ends.
- Prioritize everyday retailers—gas, streaming, restaurants, etc.
✅ Warning: Always verify merchant codes; test with a small purchase if unsure.
🧠 Build Smart Habits, Earn Bigger Rewards
With just a little planning each quarter, you can:
- Earn up to $300 per year in bonus cash back
- Avoid reward losses from small oversights
- Build smarter spending habits that pay off long term
⏱️ It only takes a few minutes to activate and track—well worth the reward.
