Frequently asked questions
Last updated October 5, 2026 by the MaxPoints.ai Team
For the full method, see How we calculate.
Common questions
What is MaxPoints?
MaxPoints is a free credit card rewards calculator. You enter your monthly spending by category, and it recommends the combination of cards that earns the most after annual fees, based on that spending.
Is MaxPoints free, and do I need to sign up?
It is free and you do not need an account to run a calculation. The calculator asks only for monthly spending amounts, never card numbers or personal identifiers.
Does using MaxPoints affect my credit score?
No. MaxPoints does not pull your credit report or check your credit. It only does math on the spending you enter.
How does MaxPoints decide which cards to recommend?
For each card it values the rewards you would earn on your spending, adds the statement credits you are likely to use, subtracts the annual fee, and searches for the combination of cards with the best total. The full method is on the How we calculate page.
What does the dollar gap in my results mean?
It is the difference between the yearly value of the recommended cards and a plain 1% cash back card on the same spending. It is an estimate for the spending you entered, not a promise of what you will earn.
How do you value points and miles?
Each rewards currency is valued at a cents-per-point figure, and cash back is counted at face value. The valuations used for your results are listed under them as assumptions.
Why are signup bonuses not the main ranking factor?
Welcome bonuses are a one-time reward. Cards are ranked by their ongoing yearly value from year two onward, and signup bonuses are added to the first-year figure only, so a big bonus does not hide a card that is poor value to keep.
Are statement credits counted in the results?
Only credits a typical cardholder is likely to use are counted by default. You can switch any credit on or off to match how you actually spend, and the results update. A perk shared by several cards, such as airport lounge access, is counted once.
What is the Chase 5/24 rule and does MaxPoints handle it?
Chase generally declines applicants who opened five or more personal credit cards in the last 24 months. If you tell MaxPoints you are at 5/24 or over, it stops recommending Chase cards you do not already hold.
How current is the card data?
Card terms are checked against issuer pages and updated when they change, but issuers change fees, credits and bonuses without notice. Always confirm the current terms with the issuer before you apply.
Is MaxPoints financial advice?
No. MaxPoints is an educational tool. It models rewards from the numbers you enter and does not know your full financial situation.