Abstract: A series of time-bounded bonus rewards programs is disclosed for offering by a financial institution. Consumers enroll in each program and are thereafter provided bonus rewards on consumer purchases with a credit card on goods and services from one or more select merchant categories until the program's expiration. These bonus rewards are in addition to or in place of standard rewards the financial institution offers its customers. The selected merchant categories of the bonus rewards programs are relevant to the consumer in the given time frame in that they provide goods and services according to consumers' needs for that time of year. Incentives are thus provided to consumers to increase their use of the financial institution's credit card by providing bonus rewards on purchases that fit consumers' needs within the time frame of the program.

Abstract: A cash rebate award system with increased payout options is presented, wherein a consumer using a financial alternative to currency is rewarded based on the purchases made by the consumer within a given time frame, and is allowed to electronically transfer the award into any number of banking or investment accounts. A standard electronic currency transfer system, such as the ABA routing number system, or the ACH routing system, can be used so as not to limit the accounts into which the consumer can transfer their award. Consumers can also choose to transfer their award to multiple accounts, or accounts belonging to others, such as family or charities. Account information can also be saved for more efficient subsequent transfers, and automated transfers can also be set up by the consumer.