How this number is made
Rewards are a percent of spending. The annual fee comes off. A 2% card with a fee can lose to a 1.5% card with no fee if you do not spend enough. This page uses one rate. Bonus categories, caps, and points that are worth less than a cent are not modeled. If a point is worth half a cent, cut the rate in half.
- Spending is the spending that earns the rate. Rent that does not earn rewards should stay out.
- A waived fee is zero.
Formula
Net rewards = spending × rate − annual fee.
Worked example
With the figures already in the form, rewards after the fee is $265.00.
Questions
What spending makes the fee worth it?
Fee divided by the extra rate over the no-fee card you would have used. This page subtracts the fee from the rewards. It does not pick the other card.
Do I count the sign-up bonus?
Only in the year you receive it, and only at a value you believe. Add it by lowering the fee, if you want it in the number.