The RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard® is a premium credit card designed specifically for individuals who are frequent travelers and value earning rewards that can be redeemed for vacation stays. This card is offered by RCI, a leader in vacation exchange and hospitality, in partnership with Mastercard. Whether you are planning to exchange timeshare points or looking for other travel-related benefits, the RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard® can offer significant value to cardholders.
In this article, we will discuss the essential features of the RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard®, its benefits, fees, rewards program, and how to apply for the card.
Key Features of the RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard®
- Earning Rewards: The card provides an impressive rewards program, tailored specifically to RCI members. Cardholders earn points for every dollar spent, with higher rewards for RCI-related purchases, such as vacation packages and timeshare exchanges. Here are some of the key earning categories:
- 3 points per $1 on purchases made through RCI, including vacation exchanges, timeshare bookings, and other RCI-related transactions.
- 1 point per $1 on all other purchases, including everyday expenses such as groceries, dining, and entertainment.
- Exclusive Travel Perks: As a World Mastercard, the card offers several travel-related perks and benefits, making it an excellent choice for globetrotters. Some of the key travel benefits include:
- Travel accident insurance: Coverage for you and your family in case of an accident during your trip.
- Trip interruption or cancellation insurance: Reimbursement for non-refundable travel expenses if your trip is interrupted or canceled due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Baggage delay insurance: Compensation for the purchase of essential items if your baggage is delayed.
- Roadside assistance: If you’re traveling by car, you have access to emergency roadside assistance for a range of issues, from flat tires to dead batteries.
- Welcome Bonus: The RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard® often offers an attractive welcome bonus for new cardholders. This may include a significant number of bonus points, which can be used immediately towards RCI vacations. This bonus provides a great incentive for individuals who are looking to book a vacation in the near future.
- No Annual Fee for the First Year: Many premium credit cards come with hefty annual fees, but the RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard® typically offers the first year free. After the first year, cardholders may be charged an annual fee, but this fee can be offset by the rewards and benefits provided by the card.
- Mastercard Benefits: As part of the World Mastercard family, the RCI® Elite Rewards® card offers access to numerous exclusive perks available to all Mastercard holders, including:
- Priceless® Cities: Access to exclusive offers, events, and experiences in cities around the world.
- Global services: Emergency card replacement, emergency cash advance, and more.
- Concierge service: A dedicated concierge service that can help with booking travel, dining reservations, and even securing hard-to-get tickets to concerts or events.
- Redeeming Rewards: The points you accumulate with the RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard® can be redeemed in a variety of ways:
- RCI Vacation Stays: The primary benefit of the card is the ability to redeem points for vacation stays. With over 4,300 resorts available worldwide, cardholders can book dream vacations, including beach resorts, ski resorts, and more.
- Travel Expenses: Cardholders can use their points to cover airfare, car rentals, and other travel-related expenses.
- Exclusive Vacation Packages: RCI also offers exclusive vacation packages for cardholders, which may include cruises, tours, or other experiences that can be redeemed with points.
Fees and Interest Rates
While the RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard® offers numerous benefits, it’s important to be aware of the associated fees and interest rates:
- APR for Purchases: The interest rate for purchases is generally variable, based on your creditworthiness. This rate can change over time, so it’s important to stay on top of the current rate.
- Cash Advance Fee: There is typically a fee for cash advances, in addition to a higher interest rate for cash advances.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: If you frequently travel internationally, this card could be a good choice as it does not charge foreign transaction fees on purchases made outside of your home country.
- Late Payment Fees: A fee may be charged if you miss a payment deadline, so it’s crucial to make sure you’re making timely payments each month.
How to Apply for the RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard®
Applying for the RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard® is a straightforward process, and it can be done either online or over the phone. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for this premium credit card:
- Check Eligibility: Before applying, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. This typically includes having a good to excellent credit score, which means a score of at least 670. Additionally, having a steady income and being a member of RCI will enhance your chances of approval.
- Visit the Official Application Page: Go to the official website of RCI or the bank offering the card and navigate to the application page for the RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard®. There, you’ll be asked to fill out personal information, including your name, address, social security number, and annual income.
- Submit Your Application: Once you’ve filled out the application form, submit it online. You will likely receive an immediate decision on whether you have been approved or if additional information is needed. If you are approved, you’ll receive your card in the mail within a few business days.
- Activate Your Card: After receiving your card, you will need to activate it before using it for purchases. Follow the instructions provided in the card’s packaging or call the activation number to complete this step.
- Start Earning Rewards: Once your card is activated, you can start making purchases and earning rewards right away. Be sure to take advantage of RCI-related purchases to maximize your points.
Final Thoughts
The RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard® is an excellent choice for individuals who are passionate about travel, particularly those who enjoy the flexibility of timeshare exchanges and vacation stays through RCI. With its solid rewards program, travel perks, and the ability to redeem points for vacations and travel-related expenses, this card offers significant value to frequent travelers. However, as with any credit card, it’s essential to be aware of the fees and interest rates associated with the card to ensure that the benefits outweigh the costs. If you’re eligible, applying for the RCI® Elite Rewards® World Mastercard® can unlock a world of travel benefits and rewards.
