The holiday season is a time full of joy and excitement − and, for many, a bit of financial stress. 

But here’s a secret: Your credit card could be the holiday helper you didn’t even know you needed. Here’s how your credit card can lighten the load this holiday season.  

Rack up rewards

Many credit cards offer rewards on your purchases, typically in the form of points, miles or cash back. Because the holidays tend to be a time of heavy spending for some, you have the opportunity to really take advantage of your credit card’s rewards program. 

Earning these rewards will save you money on future purchases, including costly items like travel. Because spending is high around the holidays, you’ll want to make sure to also keep track of your credit card rewards. This is so you can take inventory when it comes time to spend your rewards in the new year. 

Earn rewards on your spending: See the best credit cards

Take advantage of spend categories and promotional periods

If you are looking for a new credit card, now may be the perfect time to open one.

Many credit cards offer introductory promotions, such as extra miles, cash back or statement credits when you spend a certain amount. This puts more money back in your pocket. Just be diligent about paying your balance in full each month. 

You’ll also want to pay attention to the spend categories on your credit cards. Certain types of purchases, like groceries, dining and travel, may earn more rewards than purchases in other categories. Sometimes cards even rotate the spend categories quarterly. 

Strategically planning your purchases around these categories (and which card offers the best deals) can help you get the most bang for your buck. 

Enjoy the fine print perks 

Did you know your credit card can reward you in many ways aside from just rewards and promotions? It’s also possible your credit card offers you purchase protections and extended warranties. 

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Purchase protections help safeguard what you buy. If offered, your credit card could cover lost, stolen or damaged items. This is super-helpful if you’re buying expensive gifts this season, or if you have to deal with the annoyance of your package getting lost in the mail. 

Extended warranties are another perk, when certain credit cards will automatically extend the manufacturer’s warranty on the purchased item. This comes in handy especially for electronics or other big-ticket items.To check your credit card’s benefits you may have to do a bit of reading of the fine print, but it’s totally worth it for the extra protection. 

Have the safety net of fraud protection

The holidays, while being a time of giving, are unfortunately also a time for theft. Combat this by not only being vigilant about where you shop and to whom you give your credit card number, but also by putting some trust into your credit card company.Credit card companies offer strong fraud protections. So, if you’re faced with fraud or your card information gets compromised during the busy holiday season, you won’t be liable for unauthorized charges.

Holiday cheer with every swipe

When used responsibly, credit cards can boost your holiday shopping strategy. And the perks of credit cards of course aren’t exclusive to the holidays − they can provide many benefits year-round.If you need some ideas on which credit cards are the best for your needs, here are some of my favorites. 

But for more tips about credit cards and money in general, follow me on Instagram.