"Pssst! Hey, buddy, can I interest you in some free cash?"

Most people would run away or think, "Yeah, right. What's the catch?" But earlier this year, I did indeed get a check for $600 – and I didn't have to spend a penny to get it!

OK, I lied. I actually did have to spend a lot to get it. But it was on things I needed anyway, like groceries, gas, restaurants, etc.

See, I have an optional rewards program on my credit card, so I get one point for every dollar I spend. Whenever I buy something, I use my credit card and get points. When I fill up the gas tank, I get points. When I buy a latté at Starbucks , I get points. When I travel and buy a plane ticket with my card, more points. This spring I reached 50,000 points and called up to get my $600 check. Score!

You can get your own check, too – but rewards programs aren't for everyone. The key is: You have to be able to put as much of your spending as possible on your credit card, and then pay it off in full – on time, each and every month. If you can't do that, the "free" cash will suddenly become a lot more expensive! Finance charges for any balance you carry and late fees for not paying on time add up very quickly! If you aren't very careful and responsible, you can get into trouble fast. So it's best not to try these programs if you think you'll be tempted to overspend or you won't be able to pay on time.

Also, while I don't have to pay an annual fee for my credit card with rewards (another great benefit of working for Wells Fargo!), you may or may not be able to get the rewards program for free. Check with your friendly neighborhood banker to find out.

Well, I've got to run. I've got 600 bucks burning a hole in my pocket, and I've got my eye on one of these... 

Editor's note: Finally, the Student LoanDown adds a male blogger to the team – it only took a year. Welcome, Dave!