New research says some rewards programs gives back as much as 25% of what Americans spend

NEW YORK (CBS, KYMA) - Even as affordability remains a top issue, new research suggests many Americans are leaving free money on the table by not taking full advantage of rewards programs.

The 2026 State of Loyalty Report found some rewards programs can give Americans back as much as 25% of what they spend.

Brian Kelly, founder and CEO of "The Points Guy," said there's an easy way to maximize value when people fill up at the pump.

"When you go to fill up the gas, you should be enrolled in the loyalty program. So let's just say a shell station. They could give you up to 10 cents off a gallon just for being a loyalty member. You are going to stack this. A lot of gas stations are teamed up with supermarkets like Kroger...Kroger will let you save up to 10 cents off a gallon through their program. And you can stack the two and then when you pay for your gas, use a credit card. There's a AAA no annual fee card that will give you 3% off the price. That's the triple dip. This is how you save dramatically."

Brian Kelly, The Points Guy Founder and CEO

Among retailers' reward programs, the study found Ulta Beauty, Pac-Sun, Made-Well and Abercrombie offered the best values.