i get checks all the time. We put EVERYTHING on cards. We have a visa, mastercard and discover. Discover has a program to chose what you want higher return on, I chose gas. We have our utility bills automatically posted to Mastercard. I get the 1% back on my electricity and natural gas. i charge even if I go to McDonalds.
I have charged a new furnace, roof, everything if they take cards.
Of course the second part is CARRY NO BALANCE. Pay the entire bill every month.