One of the biggest reasons I’m able to maximize my points and miles is simple—I don’t do it alone. My whole family plays a role in earning rewards, and over the years, we’ve built a system where every dollar spent contributes to our collective travel goals.
By strategically adding my kids as authorized users when they were younger and guiding them as they got their own credit cards at 18, we’ve created a powerhouse of earning potential. The best part? Because I still support some of them, I keep control over most of the points, allowing us to combine rewards and unlock even more value.
Here’s how it all works:
Starting Young: Authorized User Strategy
When my kids were younger, I added them as authorized users on my and Rob’s accounts. This gave them access to premium rewards cards without needing their own credit history. More importantly, it trained them to spend strategically—they knew the rules:
✅ Gold for food, Blue for everything else! 🍔🥗🛍
This simple system ensured that every purchase was optimized for maximum points. Every Uber ride, every coffee run, every concert ticket—it all contributed to our family’s growing pot of rewards. And because I was paying the bills, I was also keeping all the points while they learned responsible credit habits.
Turning 18: Their Own Cards, Our Combined Buckets
Once my kids turned 18, it was time to level up. Each of them applied for their own credit cards, starting with a perfect beginner card that earned flexible points.
Now in their 20s, my younger kids have built strong credit profiles, each holding multiple cards that align with their spending habits. But here’s the key:
👉 We combine points.
Since they’re still financially connected to me, they pool their points into my accounts when possible. With programs like:
- Chase Ultimate Rewards (which allows household point transfers to one other household member and we have worked the system with a chain connecting us EACH to one other household member)
- Amex Membership Rewards (where we can transfer points to one another’s loyalty programs)
- Capital One (where combining is quick and easy via a phone call)
…we create even bigger redemption opportunities.
The 23-Year-Old: Proof the System Works
My 23-year-old is now fully on his own, but because he was trained in the points and miles game early, he’s already earning his own buckets of rewards and using the right cards.
🚀 He has a strong lineup of cards.
💳 He maximizes spend in key bonus categories.
🌍 He’s already booking his own trips using points and miles.
Even though he’s no longer contributing to the family pot, I know he’s set up for life when it comes to travel rewards. He doesn’t need to start from scratch or wonder which card to use—he’s got it down. That’s the beauty of teaching these habits young.
The Power of Multiple Earners
Instead of just one person earning points, multiple family members contribute to the rewards pot. This means:
🚀 Faster accumulation – More spend = more rewards.
🌍 Bigger redemptions – Business class flights, luxury hotels, and bucket-list trips become easier.
💡 Strategic spending – Each family member uses the right card for the right purchase.
Why This System Works So Well
1️⃣ They learn responsible credit habits early.
2️⃣ We maximize earning potential as a family.
3️⃣ I keep control of the points while still supporting them.
4️⃣ Pooling points opens up premium travel experiences.
5️⃣ Even when they go out on their own, they know how to play the game.
Not everyone can or wants to manage a household points strategy, but for those of us in the game, leveraging multiple family earners is a game-changer.
So, when you see us flying business class or staying in luxury hotels, know that it’s not just me—it’s my family of earners making it happen. 💳💸✈️
Related posts:
How Autopilot Saved My Family Over $300 on Flights (and Helped Me Get Miles Back Too!)
The Power of Hyatt Globalist Guest of Honor Awards: A Game-Changer for Family Travel
Maximizing Points and Miles with a Partner: A Comprehensive Guide
Maximizing Points and Miles as a Couple Yet Keeping Status Too!
