Reward Points

MCC Codes Explained: How Banks Use Them to Decide What Counts

A Merchant Category Code is a 4-digit number attached to every transaction. It controls rewards, milestones, and exclusions.

What Counts as 'Card Spend' — And What Banks Quietly Exclude

Wallet loads, rent payments, fuel, and insurance don't always count toward your milestone. Here's the full exclusion list.

Cashback vs Reward Points vs Air Miles — Which One Is Best for You?

All three are ways to earn on your card. The right pick depends on your spend, your redemption habits, and your flexibility.

When Do Reward Points Expire on Indian Cards? The Full List

HDFC points don't expire. Axis EDGE Miles expire in 24 months. Amex MR points expire in 36 months. Here's the rest.

How Indian Banks Design Reward Programmes — The Math Behind the Headline Rate

Every rewards programme has three knobs: earn rate, cap, and burn value. Here's how banks tune them.

Are Credit Card Rewards Taxable in India? The Income Tax Reality

Section 10(4)(i) exempts cashback and rewards from income tax. The 2023 TDS rule covers gaming winnings, not card rewards.

How to Value a Reward Point — The Math That Actually Matters

Most Indian cards quote '1 point = ₹X' but the real value depends on how you redeem. Here's the framework we use.

Your Credit Card Billing Cycle, Explained in Plain English

The billing cycle is the engine of every reward, fee, and interest decision on your card. Here's exactly how it works in India.