If most of your favorite shows are spread out among multiple streaming services, your streaming costs can really add up.
With some companies cracking down on your ability to split your account with friends and family, you might find yourself now shelling out more than ever.
The good news is that credit cards can help ease some of that pain by saving you money or earning you bonus rewards on your subscriptions. Here’s how to save when you stream.
Related: The best cards for streaming service subscriptions
Take advantage of statement credits
Several cards have statement credits for streaming services, including The Platinum Card® from American Express, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express and the U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card.
With these cards, you’ll get an automatic credit for all or part of your subscription costs. Just be sure to check which subscriptions are eligible for your card.
The information for the U.S. Bank Altitude Go card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Note that a non-streaming statement credit on the Amex Platinum can also unlock a subscription to a popular service. Every month, you can get a statement credit for a Walmart+ membership ($12.95 per month plus applicable taxes, Plus Ups excluded). Then, your Walmart+ membership includes a complimentary Paramount+ Essential subscription after activation. Enrollment is required for select benefits.
Related: Save on streaming this year with these credit card perks
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Use a credit card that earns bonus rewards on streaming services
If you don’t have a card with streaming statement credits, pay for your subscriptions with a card that earns bonus rewards.
If you’re focused on earning travel rewards, use your Chase Sapphire Preferred Card to earn 3 points per dollar on eligible streaming services. If you’re looking for cash-back rewards, use your Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees) to earn 3% back on your streaming spending.
Check your merchant offers
When you check the merchant offers available for your card, watch out for streaming service deals. We regularly find deals for cash back or bonus rewards on subscriptions like YouTube TV, HBO’s Max and Audible.
When you see one for a service you use, add it to your card and set a reminder to use that card for your subscription through the offer end date.
Related: Everything you need to know about credit card merchant offers
Bottom line
Multiple streaming services can add up quickly, but credit card statement credits and merchant offers can help you save on your subscriptions. If you don’t have credits or offers, ensure you earn bonus points no matter how you stream.
With these tricks, you won’t have to choose a show to sacrifice to save on your streaming budget.
