You should only buy points directly if you have a locked in and the "buy" price is lower than the cash value you'll receive.

Because the direct purchase price is so high (2.5 cents per point is well above the average 1.6-cent valuation), seasoned travelers use these "indirect" purchase methods instead:

: This is widely considered the best "hack." By linking your Rakuten account to Amex , you can earn MR points instead of cash back at thousands of retailers. If a store offers 10% back, you effectively get 10 points per dollar spent.

Unlike many airline or hotel programs that let you buy points at any time, American Express generally only allows you to purchase points .

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Buy Membership Rewards Points Direct

You should only buy points directly if you have a locked in and the "buy" price is lower than the cash value you'll receive.

Because the direct purchase price is so high (2.5 cents per point is well above the average 1.6-cent valuation), seasoned travelers use these "indirect" purchase methods instead:

: This is widely considered the best "hack." By linking your Rakuten account to Amex , you can earn MR points instead of cash back at thousands of retailers. If a store offers 10% back, you effectively get 10 points per dollar spent.

Unlike many airline or hotel programs that let you buy points at any time, American Express generally only allows you to purchase points .