Methodology
Net annual value
Every calculator uses the same formula: rewards + benefits + credits − annual fee = net annual value. Monthly spend inputs are annualized (×12). Earn rates are applied per category as cash-equivalent fractions per dollar spent.
Point valuations
Default cents-per-point values are editorial estimates based on typical redemption outcomes. Logged-in users can override valuations per program. All figures are labeled as estimates for illustrative purposes.
Rankings
Cards are ranked by net annual value on your spend profile, not by affiliate compensation. Editorial roundups may weight additional factors (e.g. lounge access, transfer partners) with explicit disclosure in each article.
Onecard engine
Calculator results are produced by the WalletFlo Onecard engine running on our API — not in your browser. The web app sends your monthly spend profile and selected cards; the engine returns ranked net annual value with a per-card breakdown (rewards, credits, perks, and annual fee). Each response includes an engine version so you can see which calculation revision was used.
Credits & perks
Credit and perk values represent full annual utilization. We note when credits require specific merchants or monthly activation. Verify issuer terms before relying on any estimate.