The MGM Rewards card gives you points on purchases, with bonus categories for gas and dining
The MGM Rewards credit card is issued by a major bank and earns you points on everyday spending. You get one point per dollar on most purchases, and higher earning rates in specific categories like gas stations and restaurants. Those points convert to free or discounted stays at MGM properties, or you can use them for other rewards depending on the card version you choose.
The card comes in two main versions: the standard MGM Rewards card and a premium version with an annual fee. The premium card offers a higher earning rate in bonus categories and comes with perks like free night certificates and lounge access at MGM hotels. Which one makes sense depends on how much you spend and whether you stay at MGM properties regularly.
Key Takeaways
- The MGM Rewards card earns one point per dollar on all purchases, with bonus points in categories like gas and dining that vary by card version.
- Points can be redeemed for hotel stays at MGM properties, or converted to airline miles or other rewards through transfer partners.
- The premium version charges an annual fee but offers higher earning rates, free night certificates, and hotel perks that may offset the cost if you travel frequently.
- Gas station purchases earn bonus points, making this card relevant if you drive regularly and want rewards on fuel spending.
- You will need to check the current terms with the issuing bank, as earning rates and benefits change periodically.
How the earning structure works for gas and everyday purchases
On the standard MGM Rewards card, you earn one point per dollar spent on all purchases. Gas stations fall into a bonus category that earns additional points — the exact rate depends on which version of the card you hold. The premium card typically offers a higher rate in gas and dining, though the exact multiplier varies and you should confirm the current terms directly with the bank.
Points accumulate in your account and never expire as long as your account remains open and active. You can track your balance online through the card issuer's website or mobile app. There is no limit to how many points you can earn, so high-spending months at the pump or restaurant will build your balance faster.
Redeeming points for hotel stays and other rewards
The primary use for MGM Rewards points is booking stays at MGM Resorts properties, which include brands like Bellagio, Aria, Mandalay Bay, and others across Las Vegas, other U.S. cities, and international locations. You log into your rewards account, search available dates and properties, and redeem points directly for your stay. The number of points required varies by property, season, and room type — a budget property in off-season costs fewer points than a premium resort during peak travel.
If you do not stay at MGM properties often, you can transfer points to airline partners or convert them to other rewards. The conversion rate and available partners depend on your card version and the current program terms. Some cardholders also use points for dining, entertainment, or retail purchases through the MGM rewards portal, though hotel redemptions typically offer the best value per point.
Annual fees and whether the premium card pays for itself
The standard MGM Rewards card has no annual fee. The premium version charges an annual fee that ranges depending on the current offer — you should confirm the exact amount with the bank before you open the account. The premium card comes with benefits designed to offset that fee: typically a free night certificate good for one night at an MGM property each year, elite status at MGM Resorts, and higher earning rates in bonus categories.
Whether the premium card makes financial sense depends on your travel habits. If you stay at MGM properties at least once or twice per year, the free night certificate alone may cover the annual fee. The higher earning rate in gas and dining also adds up faster if you spend significantly in those categories. If you rarely travel or do not stay at MGM hotels, the standard no-fee card is the better choice.
Comparing this card to other gas and travel rewards cards
Other travel rewards cards also offer bonus points on gas purchases. Some cards earn higher rates on gas (up to 3 or 4 points per dollar) but restrict redemptions to airline miles or specific hotel chains. The MGM card's advantage is flexibility — you can redeem at a large portfolio of properties, or transfer points to airlines if you prefer. The trade-off is that the gas earning rate may be lower than a card designed specifically for gas rewards.
If you drive frequently and want to maximize gas rewards, compare the earning rate on this card against cards from other hotel chains or general travel cards. Calculate how many points you would earn annually on your typical gas spending, then check what that converts to in hotel nights or airline miles. The card that gives you the most value depends on where you travel and what rewards matter most to you.
How to open an account and what to expect
You open an MGM Rewards credit card account through the issuing bank's website or by calling their customer service line. You will need to provide your name, address, Social Security number, and income information. The bank will run a credit check and make a decision within minutes to a few business days. If you are approved, the card ships to your address within 7 to 10 business days.
Once your card arrives, set up it through the bank's website or app, then set up your rewards account if it is not already linked. You can begin earning points when ready on any purchase. Most cards come with a welcome bonus — a lump sum of points added to your account after you spend a certain amount in the first few months. Read the terms carefully to understand the spending requirement and the timeframe, as missing the important date means you forfeit the bonus.
Important terms and conditions to review
Before you open the card, read the full terms from the bank. Key things to understand: the annual percentage rate (APR) for purchases and balance transfers, any balance transfer fees, late payment penalties, and the rewards earning rate in each category. Earning rates and benefits can change, so the bank will notify you in advance if they modify the terms.
Also check whether the card offers fraud protection, purchase protection, or extended warranty coverage — these vary by card version and issuer. If you carry a balance month to month, the interest you pay will likely exceed the value of the rewards you earn, so this card works best if you pay your full statement balance each month. Review the rewards program rules to understand any restrictions on point transfers, blackout dates for hotel redemptions, or minimum point requirements for certain rewards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I earn points on gas purchases with the standard card?
Yes, the standard MGM Rewards card earns bonus points at gas stations, though the rate is lower than the premium version. You earn one point per dollar on all purchases, plus additional bonus points specifically at gas stations. The exact bonus rate varies, so check the current terms with the issuing bank.
Can I use my points at hotels other than MGM properties?
You can transfer points to airline partners or use them for other rewards through the MGM portal, but direct hotel redemptions are limited to MGM Resorts properties. If you stay at other hotel chains regularly, a card tied to that chain may offer better value for your redemptions.
What happens to my points if I close the card?
Points expire if your account is closed and inactive. Keep your account open even if you do not use the card regularly, or redeem your points before closing the account. Some cards allow you to transfer points to a family member's account before closure, but check your specific card terms.
Is there a sign-up bonus, and how do I get it?
Most MGM Rewards cards come with a welcome bonus of points after you spend a set amount within the first few months. The bonus amount and spending requirement change based on current promotions. You will see the exact offer before you open the account, and the bonus posts automatically once you meet the spending threshold.
Can I earn points on gas if I use the card at a non-MGM gas station?
Yes, bonus points explore at any gas station, not just those at MGM properties. You earn the bonus rate anywhere you pump gas, as long as the transaction codes as a gas station purchase. Some convenience stores or truck stops may not code as gas stations, so the bonus might not explore — check your statement to see how specific purchases were categorized.