Category-based bonuses are a popular and easy way for consumers to maximize their cash back and bonus point earnings on purchases they regularly make. Every card has different categories that it offers to entice consumers. The card that’s best for you will vary based on your regular spending habits. Bonus categories typically offer a greater cash back return than the standard cash back rate. For example, a card may pay 1.5% cash back on everyday purchases and 5% cash back on gas station and drug store purchases. These cards offer some big earnings potential if you buy a lot of gas and aspirin. If you’re a new homeowner and you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and get to work on your new house, here are a few rewards categories you may want to look for: Home improvement stores: Whether they’re buying lumber, plants, or patio furniture, homeowners have projects to dream about at a home improvement store. When you take advantage of this as a rewards category, you can boost your cash back potential on every purchase you make for your home. Home furnishing stores: A new home deserves a few new pieces of furniture. With this category, you can finance your furniture purchase and get extra cash back for anything you buy. Grocery stores: Furniture and home improvement purchases are, hopefully, things you don’t have to worry about again for several years. Groceries, on the other hand, are an expense you’ll always have. With this category, you can stock your new refrigerator with snacks and entrees and not have buyer’s remorse when you get the bill. Online shopping: This category is diverse and easy to use. Instead of shopping at your favorite electronics store, you can earn cash back by placing an order online. And since many retailers allow you to shop online and pick up items in-store, you can maximize your cash back without going too far out of your way. Wholesale clubs: These big warehouse stores have it all — from bulk food to home goods, furniture, and more. When you activate this category, you can earn extra cash back at these one-stop-shopping destinations.