Thrifty Thinking: 5 Holiday Hacks to Extended Warranties Using Credit Cards

One smart way to add additional (and free) protection to holiday purchases is to use a credit card that will extend a manufacturer’s warranty.

“Most cards generally add an extra year to a manufacturer’s warranty (of three years or less), but some can offer up to an additional 2 years of coverage while equaling the terms of the original manufacturer’s warranty,” from Brittney Mayer, credit strategist at CardRates.com.

 (tips viaCardRates.com)

1. Buy consumer electronics, toys, and appliances (some) as these items tend to break down in non-accidental manners, quite often.
2. Save your receipt, the card statement showing the purchase and the manufacturer's warranty, whether buying for yourself or as a gift.
3. Use a card that also provides Price Protection that will reimburse you for the difference between what you paid and the better price you found.
4. Use a card that also provides Purchase Protection that covers eligible purchases against accidental damage or theft, or loss.
5. Use a card that also allows Return Protection of certain items even if the merchant won’t accept it or issue a refund.

Our Favorite: Citi Double Cash Back - Get 1% cash back when you purchase any item and another 1% when you pay the bill, plus get 2 years additional warranty protection on qualifying items, and there is no annual fee.