So, Daughter No. 1 is in need of braces - total cost to be $7,900.
I'm thinking it is probably worth my while to put the cost onto a rewards credit card or spread it over a couple of cards and maximise my points.
Currently unable to apply for a AMEX as my Explorer AMEX is still active and I have done the ANZ Frequent Flyer Black in the last 12 months.
Anyone know what my next best options are - prefer something with low or no annual fee as this is just to churn and burn for points.
Cheers.
Hmm, didn't think of that, but even at a couple of percent that's $158 and generally you can (at the worst exchange rates) get about $500 worth of gift cards on a typical 80-100,000 points CC deal.
You already have an Amex card and you have not recognised the possibilty of fees?
I hardly use it, about to cancel and wait to start my qualification period again.
Usually they do not charge cc surcharges. However, they may not be accepting AMEX so this is worthwhile investigating.
As far as the payment is concerned, points gain will be negligible as most probably you will have to pay in quarterly instalments (been there) and the treatment may spread across a few years. During that period you will be able to churn several cards:)
Ortho offers 5% off if paid in full at start of treatment, so that is another bonus.
%5 does not seem like a lot, given inherent risks (them moving to another location that may be inconvenient for you, orthodontist leaving to different practice or even bankruptcy in unlikely scenario).
Another suggestion is paying it via cc (ANZ Black, Westpac Altitude etc), collecting points, and then doing balance transfer via any of free transfers cards.
@AFOS:
I'm going nowhere in 18 months, even then he operates offices all over New England/central coast. Very unlikely to go bust with all the work he has on - I'm happy for a 5% saving.
I have the cash, just looking to maximise points.
Waspac 80K on master and Amex 40K after $3,00 spend on each card
Fee free for first year
Does the orthodontist accept credit card and if they do, are there any credit card fees? Credit card surcharges will usually negate the value of points.