Business

September holds the cards to savings on gas

When you’re buying gas during the month of September, using the right credit card could be rewarding.

That’s what credit-card industry observers say as they recommend a few cards that are providing generous rebates.

“You’re paying through the nose — you certainly should be getting something back. Some of these cards are offering good rebate programs,” says Bill Hardekopf, CEO of LowCards.com.

Various credit-card companies are offering cash-back programs on gas purchases over the next month. Others will have deals for the rest of the year.

The rebates mean an added savings for the consumers who take advantage of them, since gas prices have been falling of late on their own.

The average price for a gallon of regular in New York City is $3.80, vs. $3.96 per gallon a month ago, according to AAA’s Daily Fuel Gauge Report. The national average for a gallon of regular gas is $3.43, vs. $3.52 a month ago.

Last year at this time, the national average was $3.55 a gallon.

“A few credit cards are giving some outstanding cash-back rates. And in some cases, it can be a nice deal,” adds Jeff Hindenach, director of content for NextAdvisor.com, a consumer advice Web site.

However, he reminds, some of the gas rebate card deals are only good until the end of September.

For example, the Chase Freedom card offers 5 percent cash back at the pump, up to $1,500.

Another get-it-while-it-lasts deal is the Discover Card. It offers 5 percent cash back (up to $1,500 in purchases) at gas stations from now until the end of September.

The longer-term deals include American Express’ Blue Cash Preferred Card, which offers 3 percent on gas purchases.

And the Bank Americard Cash Rewards Credit Card offers 3 percent cash back on gas and 2 percent back on grocery purchases.