Using the points from credit cards, is it permissible?

Message: Assalamu Alaikum Mufti,

I would like to know about a visa card. I pay it off before time so no interest is accumulated. How ever the bonus points (voucher) I get after a few months which I can use to purchase items- is this OK to use. Or will this fall within interest…?

Jazak Allah Khair.

Wa Alaikum Assalaam,

الجواب و بالله التوفيق

Once you pay off in time, then using the visa card will be allowed. With respect to the bonus points (vouchers), it is ok to use since it is not interest (Riba). This is really an incentive program operated by Credit Card Companies to encourage use of the card by the card holders.

And Allah Knows Best.

Mufti Waseem Khan.

18/02/16.