Credit Card benefits that most users forget to take advantage of

Meet Kiran, a young professional navigating the hustle and buzz of city life. Like many, he also signed up for a credit card, drawn by the promise of convenience, security, and rewards. But lately, he’s been wondering if he is really making the most of it. The points add up slowly, bill payments earn nothing, and travel spends come with hidden fees, making Kiran realise his card simply isn’t built for the way he actually spends.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Many urban working individuals find themselves in the same boat with a shiny card in their pocket, but little to no credit card benefits available with it. This article explores why standard cards usually fail to meet your expectations and how the FIRST Select Credit Card genuinely rewards your lifestyle.

Common credit card mistakes that lead to underutilisation
 

Using a credit card isn't just about spending; it’s about spending smartly. Here are some common missteps that can reduce your credit card benefits:

• Only paying the minimum

This keeps your account active, but it means the rest of your balance gathers interest, often at high rates. Over time, this wipes out any rewards you've earned and keeps you in debt longer.

• Not using categories that reward more

Many cards offer higher credit card rewards for specific spending, like groceries, dining, or fuel. If you’re not aligning your purchases with these categories, you’re leaving easy points on the table. 

• Forgetting to activate or track offers

Some issuers require you to “opt in” to special cashback or partner offers. Check your card’s app or online portal regularly, as these extras can really add up. 

• Letting points expire

Rewards often come with expiry dates. If you don’t keep track, you could lose them without even knowing. Try setting reminders, checking your expiry policy regularly, or choosing an option like the FIRST Select Credit Card for points that never expire.

• Ignoring additional perks

Some cards, like the FIRST Select Credit Card, include lesser-known benefits like extended warranties, purchase protection, etc. Not knowing what your card offers can mean missing out on valuable coverage or upgrades.

• Using the wrong card for travel expenses

Not all cards are equal when travelling. Some credit cards offer lounge access, travel insurance, and other travel benefits, while some charge high foreign transaction fees. Know your credit card and spend smarter.

• Redeeming rewards inefficiently

Using points for low-value redemptions, like small gift cards or merchandise, often gives you far less value than putting them toward high-end purchases like flights or hotels.

Knowing your card’s features and using them strategically is the key to maximising its value. 

But even smart usage can only take you so far if the card itself doesn’t offer real value. That’s where a premium credit card comes in. Cards like FIRST Select don’t just offer prestige but also unlock stronger credit card benefits that match your lifestyle and spending habits.

Why the FIRST Select Credit Card works for Kiran
 

For someone like Kiran, who’s already using his card wisely by paying on time, spending thoughtfully, and tracking offers, the problem may not be how he’s using his card, but which card he’s using. With a smart switch to the FIRST Select Credit Card from IDFC FIRST Bank, Kiran can finally see the rewards of smart and responsible credit card usage.

• Low interest rates

He benefits from low interest rates starting at just 8.5% p.a., making it easier to manage large purchases without high interest charges.

• Better rewards

With 10X reward points on incremental spends over ₹20,000, and 3X points on monthly spends below that, his everyday purchases turn into meaningful credit card rewards without changing how he shops.

• Rewarded spending

Regular bill payments like insurance or utilities? Kiran still earns 1X reward points on those, too, something most cards don’t offer.

• Travel benefits

As someone who enjoys travelling, the travel benefits he gets are a major upgrade on his credit card, some of which include:

- No convenience fee on flight bookings 

- Access to exclusive hotel and airfare deals

- Only 1.99% forex markup for international trips

- One complimentary domestic airport lounge visit each quarter

- Four complimentary railway lounge visits for added comfort while travelling within India

• Smooth EMI Conversion

For larger expenses, Kiran can instantly convert all online transactions into easy EMIs on the bank’s OTP page, giving him flexibility without stress.

Altogether, this makes the FIRST Select Credit Card not just an add-on to your wallet, but a smarter lifestyle tool that rewards smart and responsible money management.

Upgrade to credit card benefits that reward your lifestyle
 

Like Kiran, if you’re spending responsibly but not seeing real value, a premium credit card could be the upgrade you need. It turns everyday expenses into meaningful rewards, offers better features, and aligns with a more rewarding lifestyle.

A premium credit card, like the FIRST Select, isn’t just about perks – it offers better value, lower costs, and more control over your spending. Spend smarter and make the most of what the FIRST Select Credit Card offers.