How to Use SBI Credit Card Rewards for Maximum Benefits

SBI Card has over 2 crore active credit cards, making it India's second-largest credit card provider. If you already own an SBI credit card or are thinking of applying for one, you might be wondering, "So what? It's just another credit card that lets me buy now and pay later and may give me some cashback. What's the big deal?"

Well, my friend, it is a big deal. SBI credit cards don't just give you that free interest window period to pay for your purchases; they provide SBI reward points for swiping them. And if you're not redeeming those points, you're practically leaving free money on the table. How? 

Suppose one of your friends swipes their SBI credit card for flights, hotel stays, food, and even coffee on the go. A year later, he booked a family vacation to Bali—for FREE (basically) by redeeming all their SBI reward points for flight tickets and hotel bookings. Meanwhile, your reward points are just accumulating…to expire. 

In this article, you'll understand the importance of reward points, how to check them, and how to redeem them in detail so that you, too, can enjoy your life like your friend.

Table of Contents:

• How to earn SBI credit card reward points?
• How to check SBI credit card reward points?
• How to redeem SBI credit card reward points?
  • SBI Card Website (Internet Banking)
  • SBI Card Mobile App
  • SBI Rewardz Portal
  • Offline Redemption
• Transactions that are not eligible for Reward Points

How to earn SBI credit card reward points?

Earning SBI credit card reward points is easier than convincing yourself to "Monday se roz gym aur dieting." And let's be honest, at least SBI points redemption actually works (no comments on dieting). Every time you swipe your SBI credit card, you're not just spending money; you're also bagging SBI reward points that can be redeemed later for shopping, dining, hotel bookings, and much more.

Now, let's break it down: how exactly do you earn these points?

• By swiping the card on eligible purchases: Every time you swipe your SBI credit card, you earn reward points. Although different SBI credit cards have different reward rates, in general, you can earn reward points through:
  • Regular spending (groceries, dining, etc.) —> SBI Prime Credit Card
  • Online shopping (Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, etc.) —> SBI SimplyCLICK credit card
  • Travel bookings (because SBI understands you deserve a break) —> Yatra SBI Credit Card
  • Luxury and premium spending —> SBI Elite Credit Card
    These are just a few SBI credit cards. Overall, instead of using cash or debit cards that give you nothing for your purchase (except what you bought, obviously), you can wisely use your SBI credit card and earn reward points for the same transactions.
• Through welcome bonus and milestone rewards: You know that feeling when you download a new food delivery app, and they give you a hefty discount on your first order. Right? SBI credit cards do the same thing but with welcome bonus points.
  • Welcome bonus: Many SBI credit cards offer extra reward points soon after you get the card after paying the card fee or spend a minimum amount in the first few days, depending on the card. 
  • Milestone rewards: Once you hit a certain spending threshold as specified for the SBI credit card you own, SBI rewards you with bonus points. 
• Through add-on cards: If your family members have add-on credit cards on behalf of your primary card, their spending can also earn you SBI reward points. So, when your parents or siblings use their add-on SBI credit card to order food or book tickets, you get rewarded for their shopping habits.
• Partnered brands and exclusive offers: SBI collaborates with many popular brands to offer accelerated reward points on certain purchases. Sometimes, SBI runs limited-time promotions where shopping at select stores can double or triple your reward points.
  So, before you spend big, check if SBI has any ongoing offers, because nothing beats the feeling of earning more points on the things you were going to buy anyway.
• By paying bills and insurance premiums: Believe it or not, being a responsible adult could be rewarding (if you have an SBI credit card in your wallet). Paying your electricity, water, mobile, DTH, and insurance bills using your SBI credit card earns you reward points.
• Through international transactions: If you frequently travel abroad or love shopping from international websites, certain SBI credit cards can offer you high reward points for international spending.

  Imagine this: You buy sneakers from a US website or book a stay in Paris, and your SBI credit card rewards you with bonus points. That's money well-spent and well-rewarded!
  After all, if you’re already spending money (which, let’s be honest, you are), why not earn reward points while doing it? Earning SBI credit card reward points isn’t rocket science—it’s smart spending.

  Remember:
  ✅ SBI credit card = Reward points = Freebies later.

  You now understand how to earn reward points. But how do you check them?
  Don't worry—we’ve got you covered! Just scroll down to find out how.

How to check SBI Credit Card Reward Points?

So, you've been swiping your SBI credit card ('wisely', we hope so) and collecting SBI reward points like a seasoned investor buying stocks. But now comes the million-dollar question: how do you check your SBI credit card reward points? Because there's no point in earning all those points if you have no idea how many you have.

Let's learn about all the ways to check SBI reward points so you can stop guessing and start planning how to redeem SBI points like a pro.

• SBI Card website: If you're the kind of person who prefers doing things the "official" way, then checking your SBI credit card reward points via the SBI Card website is the perfect way for you. Here's how you can check your points:

  • Visit the SBI Card website
  • Log into your account (using your user ID and password
  • Click on 'Reward Points' under the dashboard
  • Check your total reward points balance (and smile if you find that you're sitting on a treasure of points)

• SBI Card mobile app: If you live on your phone, oops, sorry, love being on your phone all the time (ahem, like many of us), then checking your SBI credit card reward points via the SBI Card mobile app is the fastest way. How to check on the app:

  • Download the SBI Card mobile app (available on the Google Play store and Apple App store)
  • Log in with your credentials 
  • Go to the 'Rewards' section
  • And boom! Your SBI reward points balance will appear right there

• Monthly credit card statement: You know that your SBI credit card statement is received in your inbox every month. The one you either ignore or open just to check the "Total Due" amount. Well, it's also one of the mediums for checking SBI reward points. Here's how you can find SBI reward points in your statement:

  • Open your latest credit card statement (PDF/email)
  • Scroll down (or do a 'Ctrl+F' and type 'Reward Points' to save time)
  • Your total accumulated reward points will be written there

This method is quite useful because here you can see your total points along with how many you earned in the last billing cycle. Also, you can check if any points are expiring soon. So, next time, don't delete this email!

• SMS banking: Let's say you're in an area where Wi-Fi is slow, and you need to check your SBI reward points. What do you do? Simple, use SBI's SMS service. Send an SMS in this format:

  • REWARDS to 5676791
  • Within seconds, you'll receive an SMS with your total reward points balance

• Customer care: If you don't mind (hearing that musical tone for 'waiting' for maybe 15 minutes) talking to customer service representatives, you can always call SBI's customer care at "1860 180 1290" and ask them directly about your reward points. 

Be ready with your credit card details (last 4 digits) to get your points info quickly. Also, if you're feeling enthusiastic, you can ask the agent for tips on the best ways to redeem SBI reward points. Sometimes, they share exclusive offers.

These are the ways to check your SBI credit card reward points whenever you want. Just take 60 seconds today to check your SBI reward points balance and start planning how to redeem them for something awesome. Because it doesn't make any sense to pay the full price when your credit card has already done the heavy lifting.

All right, now that you've mastered the art of checking your SBI reward points, it's time for the real fun—redeeming them.

If you want to know the list of Best Credit Cards for Reward Points, then click on the link. 

How to redeem SBI Credit Card Reward Points?

Assume your SBI credit card reward points are like a secret treasure that you’ve been filling up with every swipe. But what's the point of collecting all this treasure if you never use it? So, whether you're looking to book hotels and flights, get cashback, shop for gadgets, or even pay your credit card bill (yes, that's possible), here's how you can redeem SBI card rewards:

1. SBI Card Website (Internet Banking)

If you prefer using your laptop over a mobile app, then you can redeem SBI credit card reward points via Internet Banking just as easily.

• Visit the SBI Card portal 
• Log in using your customer ID and password
• Go to the ‘Rewards' section and click on ‘Redeem Rewards'
• Filter your reward points, city, and category to find what you need
• Explore the ‘Rewards Catalogue', which is basically a mini shopping mall
• Select your reward, click on ‘Redeem Now’, and confirm your selection

2. SBI Card Mobile App

If you love quick, hassle-free redemptions, then using the SBI Card mobile app is the best way to redeem SBI card reward points.

• Open the SBI Card mobile app and log in using your Customer ID and password
• Click on the left-side menu and select 'Rewards’ → 'Redeem Rewards'
• Filter your reward points, city, and category to narrow down your dream redemption options
• Browse through the 'Rewards Catalogue'
• Click on 'Redeem Now’ and confirm your redemption

3. SBI Rewardz Portal

The easiest and most official way to redeem SBI credit card reward points is through the "SBI Rewardz" portal, where you can turn your points into gifts, travel, and cashback.

• Visit the SBI Rewardz website
• Log in using your SBI credit card details
• Click on 'Rewards’ and then ‘Redeem Rewards’
• Browse through a list of exciting redemption options 
• Choose what you want and redeem SBI card points

You can redeem your SBI Rewardz points for flight tickets and hotel bookings, shopping vouchers (Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, etc.), electronics & gadgets, dining & food coupons, cashback and bill payments. Also, SBI frequently runs special deals where you can redeem SBI card points at higher value. So always check for offers before redeeming.

4. Offline Redemption

If you're not a fan of the digital stuff, SBI lets you redeem SBI credit card reward points offline with a simple phone call.

• Dial the SBI credit card customer care number (you can find it on the back of your SBI card or on their website)
• Tell the customer care executive that you want to redeem SBI card reward points (don't worry, they won't judge you for holding them unused for this long)
• The executive will guide you through the available redemption options, and you can choose what suits you best
• Pay with your points or use the ‘Points + Pay’ option, where you can redeem points and pay the remaining amount via your SBI credit card.
• Confirm your redemption and enjoy your well-earned rewards

SBI reward points don't last forever. They usually expire within 2-3 years. If you've been sitting on a mountain of points, it's time to redeem them before they disappear. Make sure to use your SBI reward points because free money should never go to waste.

Transactions that Are Not eligible for Reward Points

Now that you know the glorious benefits of SBI credit card reward points, it's time for a reality check. Not every swipe or tap will add points to your treasure chest.

Yes, my friend, there are certain transactions where SBI simply refuses to shower you with points. Here's the list of "No Reward" transactions (and while you're going through this list, try not to cry):

• Cash withdrawal (plus, cash withdrawals come with hefty charges, so it's a double loss)
• Loading your e-wallet (since e-wallets are just middlemen, SBI decided that topping up your wallet doesn't count as an actual "spend")
• Disputed transactions (if there is a billing mistake or a refund)
• Balance transfer (balance transfers are useful for reducing interest payments, not for earning points)
• Paying financial charges (if you miss a credit card payment, a cheque bounce, or rack up late payment fees, SBI sees these charges as penalties, not "purchases," which means it won't reward you for bad financial habits)
• Fuel purchases (because SBI classifies fuel purchases as "non-rewardable transactions; however, there are some SBI credit cards, like the BPCL SBI card, which do offer rewards for fuel transactions. So, if you want reward points on petrol, consider switching to a fuel-centric SBI card)

While SBI credit card reward points are super valuable, you need to know which transactions actually earn points and which ones get you nothing but disappointment. So, stick to eligible spending like shopping, dining, travel, and entertainment, and avoid the no-reward zones.

Conclusion

By now, you know that SBI credit card reward points are like free dessert after a meal. So why say no to something that's already yours? Whether it's a free hotel stay, a flight ticket, a shopping voucher, or even cashback, your points are waiting to be redeemed.

Don't be that person who lets their hard-earned points expire while their friend is sipping pina colada and mojito in Bali. Check your reward points, redeem them wisely, and turn your everyday spending into free perks.

And if you're looking for the right SBI credit card for your spending habits, but it feels difficult, almost like cracking a UPSC exam. Let Finology Select do the hard work. We will hold your hand and help you find the best card for you so that you can enjoy the benefits of a credit card to the maximum.

If you want to know the list of SBI Credit Cards, then click on the link. 

FAQs

1. How much is 1 reward point in SBI?

Think of SBI reward points like special tiny coins in your wallet. For SBI credit card reward points, 1 SBI reward point value = ₹0.25 (25 paise), which you can redeem for shopping, travel, or vouchers from the SBI rewards catalogue. So, while a single reward point might not buy you a cutting chai, collect enough of them, and you could enjoy discounts, SBI rewards redemption for travel perks and much more.

2. How do I redeem my SBI credit card reward points?

If you've been swiping your SBI credit card and now want to reap the rewards, here's how you can redeem those hard-earned points:

• Method 1: Online Redemption

  • Visit the SBI Card's website at www.sbicard.com
  • Log into your account and go to the "Rewards" section
  • Browse through a wide range of redemption options, including gift vouchers, merchandise, flights, hotel bookings, and even redeem SBI card points as cashback
  • Select what you want, check the required SBI reward points, and confirm your SBI credit card reward redemption

• Method 2: Convert into Cashback

  • If your SBI cc reward points allow statement credit, you can redeem SBI card reward points for a direct deduction on your outstanding bill
  • Go to the "Rewards" section and choose the relevant "Cashback or Statement Credit" option
  • Points will be converted at the applicable rate and credited within a few working days

• Method 3: Via Customer Care

  • If you feel the old-school way is the best way, you can call the SBI Card customer support team and request SBI points redemption assistance
  • So, you can easily redeem SBI card reward points for shopping, for a relaxing vacation, or simply for a lower credit card bill

3. How are reward points calculated in SBI credit cards?

The formula for earning SBI reward points isn't rocket science, but it does vary based on the type of SBI credit card you own.

• Regular SBI credit cards: Typically, you earn 1 reward point per ₹100 spent on retail transactions

• Premium SBI cards (like SimplyCLICK SBI card & SimplySAVE SBI card):

  • SBI SimplyCLICK: Earn 10X SBI cc reward points on online shopping at partnered merchants and 5X on all other online spending
  • SBI SimplySAVE: Earn 10X SBI reward points on dining, movies, and groceries and 1X on other spending

• Super-premium SBI cards (like SBI card Prime): Earn 20X SBI reward points for every ₹100 spent on your birthday

• Exceptions: Utility bill payments, fuel transactions, and wallet loads may not earn reward points (depending on the card)

Sometimes, SBI runs bonus reward campaigns from time to time. So, do keep an eye on it

4. Do SBI reward points expire?

Yes, they do! SBI reward points are like your secret box of sweets—they won't last forever. SBI reward points typically expire after 2 years (24 months) from the date they were earned. If you don't redeem SBI credit card reward points in time, they simply vanish into thin air. SBI usually doesn't send reminders, so it's best to check SBI credit card reward points regularly. 

Simply make it a habit to redeem your earned points at least once a year, whether it's for vouchers, shopping, or even cashback. That way, you never let those precious points go to waste.

5. What is the best use of SBI reward points?

Ah, this does feel like a million-dollar question. Right? You've earned all these SBI credit reward points with so much dedication (probably by shopping a lot), but not sure what's the smartest way to use them. Here are some of the best ways to redeem SBI credit card points:

• Convert to cashback: If your SBI card allows it, cashback is the simplest and most practical option. So go on and directly reduce your credit card bill.

• Gift vouchers (for shopping lovers):

  • Use your points to get Amazon, Flipkart, Lifestyle, Big Bazaar, and other popular shopping vouchers
  • It's like getting free money to go shopping

• Travel perks:

  • Redeem points for flights, hotel stays, and holiday packages (especially valuable if you're a frequent traveller)
  • Some SBI premium cards offer bonus rewards on travel bookings. So, it's like double the benefits

• Online shopping (Through SBI's reward catalog):

  • Choose from gadgets, home appliances, fashion accessories, and more
  • But be mindful that sometimes the point value is lower compared to cashback or vouchers

So, whether you're saving money on your bill or shopping for free, the best use of SBI reward points is the one that fits your lifestyle.