When was the last time you checked your SBI credit card reward points? If your answer is "Umm…never" or "Wait, I have reward points?"—then you're missing out.
Every time you swipe, tap, or even auto-pay with your SBI credit card for groceries, shopping sprees, or those never-ending Zomato orders, you have been earning reward points. But instead of using them, most of us let them sit there, gathering virtual dust. Big mistake. Because these points can be converted into cash, which reduces your credit card bill.
However, these reward points don't last forever; they expire if you don't use them. And let's be real: who wants to lose out on free shopping, discounts, or even cashback?
So, let's understand how you can earn, track, and convert your SBI credit card reward points into savings.
Table of Contents
- How SBI Credit Card Reward Points Work
- How to Redeem SBI Credit Card Reward Points
- How to Convert SBI Credit Card Reward Points to Cash
- Best SBI Credit Cards for Earning Rewards
- Tips to Maximise SBI Credit Card Rewards
How SBI Credit Card Reward Points Work
You must have seen offers like "10X reward points on online shopping" while checking your SBI credit card benefits. But do you really know how these points work and how you can check them?
Well, let's start with how to earn SBI credit card reward points. Not all spending earns you the same number of points. It depends on:
- Your card type: Each SBI card has different rewards
- Special offers: SBI runs promotions where you can earn extra points
- What you spend on: Some categories, like online shopping and dining, give more points
But not everything earns points. You do not earn any points for:
- Cash withdrawals
- EMI conversions
- Balance transfers
- Loading money e-wallets
- Paying rent
- Government-related transactions
- Gaming transactions
So, if you're hoping to rack up points on rent or bill payments, that's not happening. Focus on shopping, travel, and dining instead.
Now, moving on to how you can check your SBI credit card reward balance. Well, there are multiple ways to do so:
- SBI Card mobile app: Log in and check the "Rewards" section
- SBI Card website: Go to sbicard.com and find your points on the dashboard
- Your credit card statement: The points are listed in your monthly bill
- Call: Dial 8422845514 from your registered number
- SBI chatbot (ILA): Log in and simply ask for your reward points
If you've accumulated a good number of SBI credit card reward points, it's time to put them to use. Redeeming them is easy, and if you have the right card for the right amount of spending, then you can get the most out of your SBI credit card.
Online shopping cards typically earn more points than fuel or utility cards. Keep an eye on special offers, as SBI frequently introduces bonus point promotions. Most importantly, don't let your points expire—they're usually valid for two years, so make sure to redeem them in time.
How to Redeem SBI Credit Card Reward Points
Earning SBI credit card reward points is one thing, but knowing how to redeem them is where the real fun begins. SBI offers multiple ways to use these points. With a simple process in place, redeeming your points is hassle-free and can get you some great benefits.
SBI reward points can be exchanged for a wide range of gift vouchers from popular brands or used to purchase exciting products from the "SBI Rewards Catalogue". These include shopping vouchers, dining offers, electronics, lifestyle products, and more.
There are two ways to do so:
1. Redeeming through the SBI Card website:
- Log in to sbicard.com with your credentials
- Click on "Rewards" and then select "Redeeming Reward Points"
- Browse through the "Rewards Catalogue", which includes various categories like gadgets, home essentials, and travel vouchers
- Select your preferred voucher or product, click "Redeem Now", and confirm your redemption request
2. Redeeming through the SBI Card mobile app:
- Open the SBI Card mobile app and log in
- Tap on "More" at the bottom menu and select "Rewards"
- Choose "Redeem", add your selected items to the cart, and proceed to checkout
Gift vouchers are a great way to use reward points, as they can be used for shopping, dining, or even entertainment. Many leading brands are part of SBI's rewards program, giving you a variety of options to choose from.
Once a redemption request is placed, the processing time depends on the type of reward selected. E-vouchers get delivered within 5 days, making them a quick and convenient choice, while physical gifts are delivered within 15 days, allowing time for shipping and logistics.
How to Convert SBI Credit Card Reward Points to Cash
Now, let's talk about something even better—turning them into cash. Yes, instead of spending your points on vouchers or shopping, you can use them to reduce your credit card bill.
Here's how to do it:
- Send an email: Visit sbicard.com/email and request a conversion.
- Call customer care: Dial the SBI Card helpline and ask them to adjust your points against your bill.
If you earn ₹0.25 for every 1 reward point, then 10,000 points would give you a ₹2,500 discount on your next bill.
However, before rushing to convert your points into cash, keep in mind that using them for shopping, vouchers, or travel might give you more value. But if your credit card bill is a bit higher than you'd like, redeeming points for cash can be a smart way to cut down the amount you owe. Just don't let your points expire.
Best SBI Credit Cards for Earning Rewards
Not all SBI credit cards are the same when it comes to earning reward points. Some cards offer extra points on online shopping, while others focus on travel, dining, or fuel purchases. Choosing the right card based on spending habits can help maximise rewards. Here are some of the best SBI credit cards for earning rewards.
1. SBI Card PRIME
The SBI Card PRIME offers high rewards, milestone benefits, and exclusive perks for frequent shoppers, diners, and travellers.
Key benefits:
- Welcome gift: ₹3,000 e-gift vouchers from brands like Bata, Pantaloons, and Yatra
- Rewards:
- 10 reward points/₹100 on dining, groceries, departmental stores, and movies
- 2 reward points/₹100 on other retail spends (except fuel)
- 4 reward points = ₹1 for bill payments
- Fuel surcharge waiver: 1% on ₹500-₹4,000 transactions (max ₹250/month)
- Milestone benefits:
- ₹1,000 Pizza Hut voucher on ₹50,000 spends/quarter
- ₹7,000 e-voucher (Yatra/Pantaloons) on ₹5L annual spends
- Annual fee waiver on ₹3L yearly spends
- Lounge access:
- 4 international lounge visits/year (max 2/quarter)
- 8 domestic lounge visits/year (max 2/quarter)
- Birthday bonus: 20 reward points/₹100 spent (capped at 2,000 points/year)
Joining and Annual fees: ₹2,999 + taxes
A great choice for premium spenders who want high rewards, travel perks, and exclusive benefits.
2. SBI Card PRIME Advantage
The SBI Card PRIME Advantage is perfect for those who want to maximise rewards on utility bills, shopping, and travel.
Key benefits:
- Welcome gift: ₹3,000 e-gift vouchers from brands like Bata, Pantaloons, and Yatra.
- Rewards:
- 20 reward points/₹100 on utility bill payments (capped at 3,000 points/month)
- 10 reward points/₹100 on dining, groceries, departmental stores, and movies
- 2 reward points/₹100 on other retail spends (except fuel)
- 4 reward points = ₹1 for bill payments
- Fuel surcharge waiver: 1% waiver on ₹500-₹4,000 transactions (max ₹250/month)
- Milestone benefits:
- ₹1,000 Pizza Hut voucher on ₹50,000 spends/quarter
- ₹7,000 e-voucher (Yatra/Pantaloons) on ₹5L annual spends
- Annual fee waiver on ₹3L yearly spends
- Lounge access:
- 4 international lounge visits/year (max 2/quarter)
- 8 domestic lounge visits/year (max 2/quarter)
- Birthday bonus: 20 reward points/₹100 spent (capped at 2,000 points/year)
Joining and annual fees: ₹2,999 + taxes
Ideal for those who want high rewards on everyday spending, utility bills, and premium lifestyle benefits.
3. SBI SimplySAVE Credit Card
The SimplySAVE SBI Card is a great choice for those who want to earn rewards on daily expenses like dining, groceries, and movies.
Key benefits:
- Welcome gift: Get 2,000 bonus reward points on spending ₹2,000 or more in the first 60 days
- Rewards:
- 10 reward points/₹150 on dining, movies, grocery, and departmental store spends
- 1 reward point/₹150 on all other spends
- 4 reward points = ₹1 for bill payments
- Fuel surcharge waiver: 1% waiver on transactions between ₹500-₹3,000 at any petrol pump in India (max waiver of ₹100 per billing cycle)
- Annual fee waiver: Spend ₹1L in a year and get your renewal fee reversed
Joining and annual fees: ₹499 + taxes
A budget-friendly card for those who want to earn rewards on everyday spending without high fees.
If you spend a lot of money on dining and travel, the SBI Card PRIME is your best bet. If you're focused on utility bills and daily essentials, SBI Card PRIME Advantage makes more sense. And if you just want a simple, low-fee card that rewards everyday spending, the SimplySAVE SBI Card is a great pick.
If you want to see the complete list of Top Reward Point Credit Cards, click on the link.
Tips to Maximise SBI Credit Card Rewards
Not all spends give the same rewards. Using your SBI Credit Card for dining, groceries, movies, and online shopping gets you more points, while other expenses earn fewer. If you have multiple SBI cards, use the one that gives the most rewards for what you're buying. A little planning can get you a lot more benefits.
Reward points are not forever. Most SBI Credit Card points expire in two years, and wasting them is like throwing away free money. Keep an eye on your SBI Card app or credit card statement to check your points balance. Set a reminder so you don't miss out. Use them before they vanish.
Not all redemptions are worth it. Using points to pay your credit card bill, book flights or hotels, or get big-brand vouchers usually gives you more value than picking random things from the rewards catalogue. Check your options before redeeming, and make sure you get the best deal for your hard-earned points.
The bonus point for you is to read this blog and learn How to Use SBI Credit Card Rewards for Maximum Benefits for better clarity.
Conclusion
SBI Credit Card reward points are like free money—but only if you actually use them. Whether you're shopping, ordering food, or booking trips, every swipe earns you points. But letting them sit there is like leaving a free plate of biryani uneaten. Why would you do that?
Instead, be smart. Use the right card for the right spend, track your points, and redeem them before they expire. Whether it's for shopping vouchers, travel discounts, or even cutting down your credit card bill, make those points work for you.
Not sure which SBI credit card suits your spending habits? Find the perfect one at Finology Select. Compare, choose, and start earning rewards like a pro. Go on, make every swipe count!