The Best Mastercard Rewards Programs

Mastercard holders often want to know a bit more about the Mastercard rewards programs. Here’s the deal; it’s not that simple to break down. There are literally hundreds of Mastercard reward programs that offer so many different features we can’t name them all. The rewards come from the issuing bank, which means what your Mastercard offers as a reward from Chase might be different than a Bank of America Mastercard holder. To make it a little easier, however, we can break it down into the best tiers. Mastercard has different tiers of rewards, and although each issuer offers different rewards, they’re all the same general level.

Gold Mastercard Rewards

This card has benefits some of the lower level cards do not offer. For example, if you become sick and you are hospitalized in another country, Mastercard will arrange for transportation and tickets for a family member or friend to come be by your side while you are hospitalized. It also offers coverage for lost and stolen luggage, rental car damage and help making reservations for just about anything.

Platinum Mastercard Rewards

This Mastercard comes with MasterAssist, which is a great reward. Not only will you receive compensation in case of evacuation or emergency medical expenses, you’ll also receive help with travel plans. Your assistant will help make your airline reservations, your dinner reservations, rental car and anything in between. It’s coverage that’s useful for all.

World Mastercard Rewards

These are the best Mastercard rewards. Almost anyone with good credit qualifies for one of these cards, and it’s worth it. You’ll get great travel rewards, such as automatic trip insurance, cancellation insurance, lost baggage reimbursement and even money to spend on new items if your luggage is delayed (up to $300!). These often end up being the best rewards because they are the most useful.

Black Card Rewards

Probably the best reward on this level is the VIP airport access. It doesn’t matter what airline, what class level or what seat you book, you get to go to the VIP lounge with this card. Additionally, you get your own private concierge that will do anything you ask as long as it is ethical (that’s Mastercard’s rule). Your concierge will even arrange for babysitters and a car to pick your kids up from school. It’s a good deal.

World Elite Rewards Program

This is the most difficult card to get from Mastercard. It’s equivalent to the AmEx black card, but it is a lot easier to get. However, you have to have a certain income, a certain credit rating and you have to be invited to get this card. The rewards program is extensive. You’ll receive free private jet charters, access to the best Michelin-star restaurants with this card and many other very elite rewards.

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Written by Tiffany Raiford

Tiffany Raiford is a lifelong Floridian, wife to my high school sweetheart and mother of four littles (two girls and boy/girl twins...no, they are not identical and yes, I'm sure). My kids love to whine, so I love to wine. My loves include nap time, bed time, date night, travel and evenings and weekends when my husband is home because he handles all diaper changes.