To quote the global moderator of this board:
How do I receive merit?
You are awarded merit by people of the community if they find your post helpful or informative.
It's really that simple. Did you make a noteworthy post? Did you help somebody who's facing an issue? Had you been humorous? Merits. Don't chase merits, because you'll end up like most bounty hunters. Chase these little things.
Merit is like Fight Club.
"The merits you used to own, now they own you." - Tyler Durden