Credit Card Reward Calculator

How credit card rewards are calculated

Every credit card earns at a different rate on different merchant categories. This calculator applies each card's rate to the spending you entered, using the higher of the base rate or a 5% boosted rate when the card has partners in that category (for example, Amazon for online shopping, Swiggy for dining, BPCL for fuel). We then subtract the annual fee to compute net annual value — the number that actually matters.

Cashback vs reward points — what's worth more?

Cashback is simpler — rupees back as statement credit. Reward points are worth whatever the issuer's redemption catalogue allows, typically ₹0.25–₹0.50 per point. On HDFC SmartBuy, flight and hotel redemptions can push the effective value to ₹0.50 per point; on product vouchers, the rate often drops to ₹0.20. The rule of thumb: take cashback unless you actively use premium redemption channels.

How to maximize your credit card rewards

• Hold two cards — a category champion (e.g. 5% on Amazon) and a flat 2% everywhere-else card.
• Route every bill payment through the higher-rate card, even when you're paying auto-debit.
• Pay the full statement balance every month. Interest at 42% p.a. annihilates any reward rate.
• Redeem at least yearly — unused points expire at 2–3 years on most issuers.

Not sure which combination fits your profile? Our 3-question card finder will narrow it down in 30 seconds. Or dig into our complete guide to how rewards work in India.

Disclaimer:Reward estimates use each card's publicly documented rate. Actual earnings vary with spend caps, partner changes, and special promotions. Verify terms with the issuer before applying.