How can we help?
Everything you need to know about OptimalCardSetup.
How It Works
1. Enter your spending
Tell us how much you spend per month in each category — dining, groceries, travel, gas, and 16 more.
2. Set preferences
Choose max cards, optimization mode (travel points or cash back), point valuations, and any card exclusions.
3. Get your optimal setup
The solver evaluates every valid combination and returns the mathematically proven best setup, with a card-by-card spending routing guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can't find what you're looking for? Use the form below or email us.
How does the optimizer work?
OptimalCardSetup uses Google OR-Tools CP-SAT, a mathematical constraint solver used in industry and academia. It evaluates every valid combination of credit cards for your spending profile and mathematically proves which setup earns the most rewards. This is not a heuristic or "top picks" list — it's a provably optimal solution.
Is this actually free?
Yes. The core optimizer is free forever with up to 3 cards. Premium ($9/mo) unlocks up to 10 cards, alternative setups, what-if analysis, and custom credit valuations.
What data do you collect?
We only store the spending categories you enter (e.g., "$300/mo on dining"). We never ask for bank credentials, card numbers, Social Security numbers, or any personal financial information. Your spend profile is used solely to run the optimization.
Can I cancel Premium anytime?
Yes. Cancel from your account menu or the Stripe billing portal. You keep Premium access until the end of your current billing period. No cancellation fees.
Why doesn't the optimizer include rotating category cards?
Cards like Discover it and Chase Freedom Flex change their bonus categories every quarter, making it impossible to give a consistent annual recommendation. We focus on cards with fixed earn structures so results are reliable year-round.
How accurate are the results?
The optimization is mathematically exact — given your inputs, the result is provably the best combination. Accuracy depends on your spend estimates being realistic and point valuations being current. We update card data regularly to reflect the latest earn rates and fees.
What does "transfer confidence" mean?
In travel mode, points can be more valuable when transferred to airline/hotel partners. Transfer confidence (0-100%) controls how much of that extra value you expect to realize. 100% means you'll always find a great transfer; 0% means you'll redeem at the cash rate. We recommend 60-80% for most people.
Why did the optimizer recommend a card with an annual fee?
The optimizer nets out annual fees from earnings. If a card with a $95 fee earns $400 more than a no-fee alternative, the net benefit is $305. The optimizer always maximizes net value (earnings minus fees).
Can I exclude specific cards or issuers?
Yes. In the Preferences section, you can exclude individual cards or entire issuers. This is useful if you can't get a card (e.g., Chase 5/24 rule) or don't want a certain issuer.
How do I report a bug or incorrect card data?
Use the feedback form below, or email us at support@optimalcardsetup.com with details. We take data accuracy seriously and will investigate promptly.
Send Us Feedback
Bug reports, feature requests, card data corrections — we read every submission.
You can also email us directly at support@optimalcardsetup.com
Ready to find your optimal card setup?
Start Optimizing — FreeDisclaimer
OptimalCardSetup provides mathematical optimization tools for educational and informational purposes only. This is not financial advice. Credit card terms, rewards rates, and annual fees may change at any time. Always verify current terms with the card issuer before applying. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, but this does not affect our recommendations — they are determined solely by mathematical optimization.