New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

WestRock Guide to Smart Rewards Credit Card Strategies

'WestRock employees who align their rewards card strategy with consistent spending habits may uncover meaningful opportunities to support long-term objectives without altering their lifestyle.' – Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'By thoughtfully integrating rewards credit cards into their financial routines, WestRock employees can create added value that supports broader planning goals over time.' – Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article we will discuss:

How WestRock employees can use rewards credit cards to align spending habits with long-term planning
The differences between cash-back, point‑based, and travel miles cards, and how to pick the right one
Strategies for increasing reward returns and lowering associated credit card costs

Credit cards now play a broader role than simply handling payments. For WestRock employees managing extended goals, these cards can generate extra value through cash-back programs, travel benefits, and points-based offers. While sign-up offers may be attractive, real value comes from matching card choices with spending patterns and understanding terms and redemption methods.

Industry Insight

Recent surveys show that nearly 23% of rewards cardholders fail to redeem any rewards during the course of the year. ¹ For those at Fortune 500 who track their expenses consistently, rewards cards can complement broader planning strategies.

Understanding the Structure of Rewards Credit Cards

Rewards cards offer benefits for regular spending, typically in three forms:

- Cash rebates on purchases
- Redeemable points for merchandise or services
- Miles that support travel-related perks

Some cards include extras like lounge access and concierge services, often tied to an annual fee. WestRock professionals should weigh whether their spending warrants such fees based on potential returns from redemption.

Choosing a card suited to lifestyle is crucial. A travel‑focused card may not be beneficial for infrequent flyers, whereas enhanced grocery or fuel rebates may be more relevant for employees balancing family obligations or preparing for retirement.

How Rewards Accumulate

Most cards award rewards based on category, flat rate, or rotating offers. Knowing your household's spending profile helps make the most of these benefits.

- Flat rate example: 1.5% on all purchases
- Rotating categories: e.g., 5% on groceries for one quarter, then 3% on fuel the next

Grasping these patterns directly boosts total year‑end returns.

The Three Main Rewards Systems

1. Cash‑Back Cards

These are the most intuitive. Rebates can offset your balance, fund savings, or support daily costs.

- Flat‑rate cards: same percentage across all purchases (e.g., $1.50 per $100 spent)
- Tiered cards: higher returns in select categories (e.g., 5% on groceries, 1% elsewhere)
Example: Fidelity’s card offers 2% back when used with eligible accounts like health savings accounts (HSAs), individual retirement accounts (IRAs), or education savings—a strong match for those building a comprehensive plan.

2. Point‑Based Rewards

These cards award points that can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, or gift cards. Redemption values vary:

For example, 10,000 points transferred to a travel partner might grant $150 in flight credit, while direct redemption through the issuer's portal might yield $100. Evaluating redemption routes can lead to better returns.
Bonus categories (e.g., dining, home improvement) increase earning potential and can support savings or travel objectives.

3. Travel Miles

Tied to airline programs, these cards suit frequent travelers and may include perks like checked baggage or companion tickets.

Flexible use at hotels or car rentals is common, but flights usually offer the best value.

Planning Example with Rewards

Imagine a Fortune 500 employee contributes a $1,000 annual cash‑back bonus to a retirement account, assuming:

- Monthly contributions
- 7% average annual growth
- No taxes or fees over a five-year period

By year five, it may grow substantially, helping boost retirement income—an illustration of how modest additions can support long-term objectives.

Strategies to Enhance Rewards

Understand redemption values —some points are worth $0.015 each, others more or less.
Use issuer calculators to find your most cost-effective redemption paths.
Match spending with bonus categories , like groceries or fuel, to increase yields.
Minimize extra charges —fees and interest can reduce potential income.
Settle your statement balance in full each month to avoid interest that offsets gains.
Know your interest-free window , typically 21–25 days after statement closing.

What Issuers Assess When You Apply

Premium rewards cards usually require strong credit profiles. Issuers evaluate:

- Income levels
- Debt‑to‑income ratios
- Credit history length

WestRock employees should check their scores and review credit bureau reports via AnnualCreditReport.com to identify inaccuracies or fraud risk.

Conclusion

Selecting the right rewards card is more than chasing introductory offers or flashy perks. For WestRock professionals, the best payoff comes from pairing card features with personal spending and broader goals. Used wisely, rewards cards can:

- Contribute to retirement savings
- Lower travel costs
- Support everyday expenses

From everyday swipes to boosting travel rewards, the key is treating each transaction as a step toward long-term outcomes—gradually building a stronger financial base.

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

Sources:

1. CNBC. ' A new report reveals many credit card holders don't claim their rewards ,' by Ana Staples. 23 Apr. 2025.

Other Resources:

1. “Best Credit Cards for Retirees.” NerdWallet, June 2025, https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/best-credit-card-offers-for-retirees .

2. “How to Maximize Travel Rewards on a Fixed Income.” Investopedia, 7 May 2025, https://www.investopedia.com/maximize-travel-rewards-on-a-fixed-income-11714024 .

3. “How Credit Card Needs Change in Retirement.” Experian, 2021, https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/how-credit-card-needs-change-in-retirement/ .

4. “Turn That Nest Egg of Mileage Points Into an Inheritance.” The Wall Street Journal, 4 June 2025, www.wsj.com/personal-finance/mileage-points-retirement-inheritance-2025 .

How does the WestRock Company Consolidated Pension Plan specifically calculate the Normal Retirement Benefit for its employees, and what considerations should employees be aware of regarding the Final Average Pay calculation used by WestRock Company?

Normal Retirement Benefit Calculation: The WestRock Company calculates the Normal Retirement Benefit based on the employee's Final Average Pay. This is defined as the average of the employee's highest five years of earnings over the last ten years of employment before termination. Earnings included in the Final Average Pay are most wages, bonuses, commissions, and amounts deferred under the company’s 401(k) plan. Employees should be aware that earnings after December 31, 2015, are excluded unless they qualify under the Rule of 75(WestRock Company_Issued…).

What are the specific eligibility requirements for the Disability Retirement Pension under the WestRock Company plan, and how does this differ for Legacy Mead and Legacy Westvaco participants within the WestRock Company workforce?

Disability Retirement Pension Eligibility: To qualify for a Disability Retirement Pension, an employee must have earned at least five years of Vesting Service and be deemed "totally and permanently disabled" according to specific criteria. Legacy Mead and Legacy Westvaco participants are subject to special rules detailed in the Legacy Supplement. Legacy Mead employees must apply separate criteria from Legacy Westvaco employees(WestRock Company_Issued…).

In what ways can employees at WestRock Company manage and maximize their Vesting Service to ensure they receive the full benefits from the companyâ€™s pension plan, particularly for those with interrupted service or re-employment?

Vesting Service Maximization: WestRock employees can manage their Vesting Service by ensuring that they complete at least five years of service, which guarantees their right to pension benefits. Employees with interrupted service can still receive credit for Vesting Service if they return within five years. Additionally, employees who leave and return within a year will receive credit for the time they were absent(WestRock Company_Issued…).

How does the WestRock Company handle the transition of benefits for employees who transfer between different positions within the company, and what impacts could this have on their eventual retirement benefits?

Transfer Between Positions: When WestRock employees transfer between different positions, their retirement benefit is calculated based on the greater of two methods. The first method calculates the benefit accrued at each position separately, while the second method applies the total benefit service across positions. Vesting Service is always combined, regardless of location or position(WestRock Company_Issued…).

How does the WestRock Company plan ensure that pension benefits are protected, particularly through the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), and what should employees know about their rights and guarantees under this insurance?

Pension Benefit Protection (PBGC): The WestRock Pension Plan is insured by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC). This federal insurance guarantees that employees will receive their vested pension benefits even if the plan is terminated. Employees should understand that PBGC coverage has limits, and benefits might be reduced under certain circumstances(WestRock Company_Issued…).

What are the consequences for WestRock Company employees who choose to withdraw from their pension plan or to rollover their benefits upon retirement or termination? How can they navigate these options effectively to avoid penalties?

Withdrawals and Rollovers: Employees can withdraw or roll over their pension benefits upon retirement or termination. Lump-sum withdrawals may be subject to taxes unless rolled over into a qualifying retirement account. Employees should consult the WestRock Benefits Center to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with federal tax regulations(WestRock Company_Issued…).

How does the WestRock Company maintain compliance with federal regulations and best practices under ERISA, and what specific rights do employees have concerning their pension benefits?

ERISA Compliance: WestRock complies with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), ensuring that employees' pension rights are protected. Employees have the right to receive information about their benefits, act prudently, and enforce their rights through the claims and appeals process outlined in the plan(WestRock Company_Issued…).

What resources are available to employees of WestRock Company for understanding their benefits under the Consolidated Pension Plan, and how can they utilize these resources to ensure they make informed decisions about their retirement?

Resources for Understanding Benefits: WestRock provides employees access to the WestRock Benefits Center, where they can obtain information on their pension plan. Employees are encouraged to review the Summary Plan Description and consult with the Benefits Center for clarification on their benefits and to make informed retirement decisions(WestRock Company_Issued…).

How will the integration of employee benefits from various company acquisitions impact current staff at WestRock Company, and what steps is the company taking to communicate these changes effectively to its employees?

Impact of Acquisitions on Benefits: WestRock has acquired various companies over time, and employees from these acquisitions may have different pension rules applied to them. WestRock takes steps to integrate these employees and communicates any changes through the WestRock Benefits Center. Special rules may apply based on the previous employer’s pension plan(WestRock Company_Issued…).

How can employees of WestRock Company get in touch with the WestRock Benefits Center to seek clarification about the Summary Plan Description, and what are the best practices to follow when requesting information regarding their pension plan?

Contacting the Benefits Center: Employees can contact the WestRock Benefits Center for clarification on the Summary Plan Description. Best practices include having detailed questions prepared, reviewing the SPD in advance, and requesting copies of documents or forms that clarify specific aspects of their pension plan(WestRock Company_Issued…).