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  • Earn $50 or Up to 5,000 Amex or Bilt Points With Rakuten’s New Member Bonus

    Earn $50 or Up to 5,000 Amex or Bilt Points With Rakuten’s New Member Bonus

    Rakuten is a free shopping portal that lets you earn cash back or points on purchases you’re already making, on top of the rewards you earn with your credit cards.

    And through the end of the year, new members can earn $50 or up to 5,000 points after spending just $50 through a referral link.

    Here’s how the offer works.

    How to Earn the $50 Rakuten Bonus

    Rakuten partners with more than 3,500 brands, allowing you to earn rewards when shopping online or at participating stores.

    At a glance, the current referral offer looks like this:

    • Sign-up bonus: $50 in cash back or points
    • Spending requirement: $50 in qualifying purchases (within 90 days of joining)
    • Eligibility: New Rakuten members located in the 50 U.S. states or Washington, D.C.
    • Offer ends: December 31, 2026

    To get started, sign up for Rakuten through our referral link.

    Once you’ve created an account, shop through Rakuten at participating retailers. You can meet the $50 spending requirement with one purchase or multiple qualifying purchases within 90 days.

    For everyday use, Rakuten also offers a browser extension that reminds you to activate cash back when shopping online. Alternatively, you can use the Rakuten app to shop, track your rewards, and find in-store cash-back offers.

    After your qualifying purchases are confirmed, you’ll receive the referral bonus through Rakuten’s quarterly payment schedule. Depending on your selected payout method, you can receive cash back through PayPal or check, or earn Amex Membership Rewards or Bilt Points instead.

    Those latter two options are particularly interesting.

    Earn Amex Membership Rewards Points With Rakuten

    One of Rakuten’s most useful features for points and miles enthusiasts is its partnership with American Express.

    Eligible Amex cardmembers can link their Membership Rewards account to Rakuten and choose to earn points instead of cash back.

    The conversion rate is 100 Membership Rewards points per $1 in Rakuten cash back. So, if a retailer offers 10% cash back, you can instead earn 10 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent.

    That means the $50 referral bonus could be worth 5,000 Membership Rewards points if you choose to receive your rewards that way.

    To get started, visit your Rakuten account settings, select Membership Rewards as your payment method, and link your eligible Amex account.

    Rakuten transfers confirmed Membership Rewards points quarterly, on February 15, May 15, August 15, and November 15. You’ll need at least 501 confirmed points for a transfer; smaller balances roll over to the next payment date.

    And remember, these points are earned on top of the rewards you already earn with your credit card (which doesn’t even have to be an Amex card).

    A young female traveller is using her laptop on her vacation.
    RECEP-BG / ISTOCK

    Earn Bilt Points With Rakuten

    Rakuten also lets members earn Bilt Points instead of cash back.

    To enable this option, you’ll need to link your Rakuten and Bilt accounts through Bilt’s website or app. Your email addresses must match on both accounts.

    Once linked, Rakuten will convert your confirmed cash back into Bilt Points. The conversion rate depends on your Bilt elite status at the time of payout:

    • Blue members: 50 Bilt Points per $1 in cash back
    • Silver, Gold, and Platinum members: 100 Bilt Points per $1 in cash back

    That means the $50 referral bonus could be worth 2,500 Bilt Points for Blue members or 5,000 Bilt Points for Silver members and above.

    Bilt Points are transferred quarterly, following Rakuten’s regular payment schedule. You’ll need at least $5.01 in confirmed cash back for a payout.

    Ready to Get Started?

    If you’re not already a Rakuten member, this is an easy way to pick up some extra cash back or points on purchases you’d make anyway.

    Just sign up through our referral link by December 31, 2026, and spend at least $50 on qualifying purchases within 90 days of joining to earn your bonus.

    And since Rakuten is free to use, you can continue earning additional rewards on everyday purchases long after you’ve earned the new member bonus.

  • Book Today: JetBlue Promo Code Takes 15% Off Flights

    Book Today: JetBlue Promo Code Takes 15% Off Flights

    JetBlue is offering 15% off select nonstop flights with promo code TREAT15, but you’ll need to book by 11:59 p.m. ET tonight, October 28, 2026, to take advantage.

    This sale isn’t sticking around for long.

    The discount applies to eligible Main and EvenMore fares for travel between November 2, 2026, and February 10, 2027, with a handful of restrictions.

    How to Get 15% Off JetBlue Flights

    To use the offer, head to JetBlue’s website, search for an eligible nonstop flight, and enter promo code TREAT15 when booking.

    Here are the key terms to know:

    • Book by: October 28, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET
    • Travel dates: November 2, 2026 – February 10, 2027
    • Discount: 15% off the base airfare, excluding taxes and fees
    • Eligible fares: Main and EvenMore, including Base and Flex options
    • Excluded travel days: Fridays and Sundays
    • Blackout dates: November 19–30, December 17–January 4, and January 18
    • Not eligible: Connecting flights, transatlantic flights, Mint, BlueFirst, award flights (see below), and Cash + Points bookings

    The discount is valid for new bookings made directly through JetBlue and can’t be combined with other offers.

    Keep in mind that the 15% discount only applies to the pre-tax fare, so your total savings will be a little less than 15% of the final ticket price.

    What About Tickets Booked With Points?

    JetBlue’s terms explicitly exclude award flights from the promotion. However, in our searches, we found that applying the promo code can also reduce the number of TrueBlue points needed for a flight.

    That’s likely because JetBlue’s award prices generally track the cash price of a ticket. When the promo code reduces the cash fare, the points price may drop, too.

    For example, a JetBlue flight between New York (JFK) and Boston (BOS) on December 1 costs $169 in Main, or 11,900 points without the promo code.

    Applying TREAT15 brings the cash fare down to $146, or 10,100 points. That’s a savings of 1,800 points on the same flight.

    JetBlue award from JFK to BOS.
    JETBLUE.COM

    If this sale piques your interest, don’t hesitate. It’ll end before you know it.

  • When Do Hotel Points Expire? Rules for 7 Programs

    When Do Hotel Points Expire? Rules for 7 Programs

    Hotel points can be incredibly valuable, but unlike miles in many major U.S. airline loyalty programs, most hotel points expire if you go a while without using your account.

    And the rules vary quite a bit. Some programs give you two years of inactivity before your points expire, while others have shorter windows or additional restrictions.

    Here’s how long points last with seven major hotel loyalty programs, what you can do to keep them active, and a few exceptions worth knowing.

    Hilton Honors

    Hilton Honors points expire after 24 months without qualifying activity.

    You can reset the clock by staying at a participating hotel, earning points (including with a Hilton Honors credit card), buying points, or even donating points to a charitable cause.

    If your points expire, Hilton lets you pay to reinstate eligible points.

    IHG One Rewards

    IHG One Rewards points expire after 12 months without earning or redeeming points. That’s the shortest expiration window on this list.

    However, IHG One Rewards elite members are exempt from expiration as long as they maintain their status.

    Using an annual free night certificate from an IHG credit card doesn’t count as earning or redeeming points. If you’re a Club member (meaning you don’t have elite status), you’ll still need qualifying activity at least once every 12 months.

    World of Hyatt

    World of Hyatt points expire after 24 months of inactivity.

    There are several ways to keep your points active, including earning or redeeming points, gifting an award, converting points to a partner program, buying or combining points, or holding an eligible Hyatt credit card linked to your account.

    If your points expire, they can’t be reinstated.

    Marriott Bonvoy

    Marriott Bonvoy points expire after 24 months without qualifying activity.

    You can keep your balance active by earning or redeeming points, completing a qualifying hotel stay, buying points, converting points with partners, or making qualifying purchases with a Marriott Bonvoy credit card.

    However, gifting, transferring, or receiving points doesn’t reset the expiration clock.

    Marriott Bonvoy Lifetime Elite members are exempt from points expiration. For everyone else, forfeited points can’t be reinstated.

    Choice Privileges

    Choice Privileges points expire after 18 calendar months without qualifying earning or redemption activity.

    You can reset the clock through an eligible hotel stay, redeeming points, earning points with a co-branded Choice credit card, or purchasing points.

    Choice Privileges Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and Titanium members are exempt from expiration as long as they maintain their status. If you lose elite status, the 18-month clock begins when your status ends.

    If your points expire, Choice offers a paid reinstatement option within 180 days of expiration.

    Wyndham Rewards

    Wyndham Rewards has two separate expiration rules. This makes it a little more complicated than other hotel programs.

    First, individual points generally expire four years after they’re earned, regardless of account activity.

    Second, your points can expire after approximately 18 months without qualifying account activity, such as earning, redeeming, or transferring points.

    Holding a Wyndham Rewards Earner Premier Card can protect against inactivity-based expiration. Points earned while you’re an eligible Earner Premier cardholder are also exempt from the four-year expiration rule while the card remains open and in good standing.

    Leading Hotels of the World (Leaders Club)

    Leaders Club points expire after 24 months without qualifying activity.

    Earning, purchasing, transferring, or redeeming points resets the expiration clock.

    If your points expire, they can’t be reinstated. However, you can start earning points again after completing another qualifying stay, which begins a new 24-month period.

    Your Leaders Club membership itself doesn’t expire, although the program may deactivate accounts after three consecutive years without activity.

  • Chase Ultimate Rewards Transfer Partners: Airlines, Hotels, and Ratios

    Chase Ultimate Rewards Transfer Partners: Airlines, Hotels, and Ratios

    Chase Ultimate Rewards points are valuable for several reasons. But when it comes to travel, one of the biggest is the ability to transfer them to airline and hotel loyalty programs.

    The issuer currently has 14 airline and hotel transfer partners. Most transfers are at a 1:1 ratio, though one partner (World of Hyatt) is a notable exception for some cardholders.

    Here’s the full list of Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners, their transfer ratios, and which credit cards give you access to them.

    Chase Ultimate Rewards Airline Transfer Partners

    Chase has 10 airline transfer partners spanning all three major airline alliances. Several of these programs can also be useful for booking flights on partner airlines.

    All 10 programs accept Chase Ultimate Rewards points at a 1:1 ratio, meaning 1,000 Chase points become 1,000 airline miles or points. That ratio can improve for a limited time when there’s a transfer bonus.

    {{ transfer-partner-table bank=”Chase” type=”airline” }}

    One thing worth remembering is that you don’t necessarily need to transfer points to the airline you’re flying.

    For example, JetBlue TrueBlue points can be used to book United Airlines flights, while Virgin Atlantic Flying Club points can be redeemed for flights on Delta, Scandinavian Airlines, and other partners.

    Chase Ultimate Rewards Hotel Transfer Partners

    Chase also partners with four hotel loyalty programs.

    Three have a standard 1:1 transfer ratio. World of Hyatt is the exception, as the ratio depends on which Chase credit card you have.

    {{ transfer-partner-table bank=”Chase” type=”hotel” }}

    Chase-to-Hyatt transfer ratios depend on your card

    Unlike Chase’s other transfer partners, World of Hyatt no longer offers the same transfer ratio across all eligible Ultimate Rewards cards.

    Here’s how the ratios differ:

    Chase Credit CardWorld of Hyatt Transfer Ratio
    Chase Sapphire Reserve1:1
    Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business1:1
    Chase Sapphire Preferred4:3
    Ink Business Preferred4:3

    For Sapphire Reserve cardholders, transferring 10,000 Chase points yields 10,000 World of Hyatt points. But for Sapphire Preferred or Ink Business Preferred cardholders, the same 10,000 Chase points would yield just 7,500 Hyatt points.

    If you have both a Sapphire Reserve and a Sapphire Preferred, though, you can access the better transfer ratio through your Sapphire Reserve.

    Keep in mind that a 1:1 transfer ratio doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting equal value from every hotel partner. Each program has its own pricing methodology, so it’s worth comparing the points required before transferring.

    How to Transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards Points

    Transferring Chase points to an airline or hotel partner is a straightforward process.

    1. Sign in to your Chase account.
    2. Open Ultimate Rewards.
    3. Select Transfer Points to Partners.
    4. Choose your airline loyalty program.
    5. Enter the number of points you’d like to transfer and confirm.

    Some transfers process almost instantly, while others can take a little longer. And once you’ve transferred points to an airline or hotel program, you can’t move them back to Chase.

    For that reason, it’s best to confirm that the award flight or hotel stay you want is available before transferring your points.

    It’s also worth linking the loyalty accounts you expect to use ahead of time, even if you don’t have an immediate redemption in mind. Last-minute transfers can sometimes get held up by security checks or account-linking issues (including something as simple as an incorrect loyalty account number).

    Getting those accounts linked early can help avoid headaches when you need to transfer points in a pinch.

    More on This: How to Convert Credit Card Points to Airline Miles

    Which Chase Credit Cards Earn Transferable Ultimate Rewards Points?

    Not every Chase credit card that earns Ultimate Rewards points allows you to transfer them directly to airline and hotel partners.

    The main cards that offer this benefit are:

    Chase Credit CardAccess to Transfer Partners
    Chase Sapphire PreferredYes
    Chase Sapphire ReserveYes
    Chase Sapphire Reserve for BusinessYes
    Ink Business PreferredYes
    Chase Freedom FlexNot directly
    Chase Freedom UnlimitedNot directly
    Ink Business CashNot directly
    Ink Business UnlimitedNot directly

    The distinction matters because cards like the Freedom Flex and Freedom Unlimited earn rewards that can be combined with points on eligible Sapphire or Ink cards.

    For example, if you have a Freedom Unlimited and a Sapphire Preferred, you can combine the points earned on both cards and transfer them to participating airline and hotel partners through your Sapphire Preferred account.

    But if you only have the Freedom Unlimited, you won’t have access to transfer partners.

    In other words, you don’t necessarily need to put all your spending on a premium Chase card to take advantage of its transfer partners.

  • The Future of Loyalty Isn’t Just About Earning Points

    The Future of Loyalty Isn’t Just About Earning Points

    Every year, banks, airlines, and hotels issue billions of points and miles.

    According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, consumers held more than $33 billion in unused credit card rewards at the end of 2022.

    Is that because loyalty programs don’t want members redeeming their points? Absolutely not.

    Points are a liability on the balance sheet. Programs generate billions selling miles as currency, but they only recognize that revenue when members redeem. For banks, airlines, and hotels, redemption drives engagement, and engagement drives spending. Everyone in the ecosystem needs people to use their points.

    So why do so many points go unused?

    It’s not lack of intent, but instead a lack of awareness.

    The loyalty landscape has changed faster than most members realize. Award availability has shifted from scarce, hard-to-find seats to flights bookable for a few thousand miles. Everyday redemptions, not just aspirational ones, are now possible.

    Most members simply haven’t kept up.

    That’s why we built PointsYeah: a free tool designed to close that awareness gap and make redemption fast, simple, and straightforward. When people know what’s possible and can see it instantly, they redeem more often.

    And that’s the future of loyalty: engagement.

    Real engagement isn’t one big trip a year. It’s the smaller moments:

    • 800 miles for a premium drink in the Delta Sky Club
    • A quick point-of-sale redemption with United miles at an airport shop in Newark
    • A spontaneous weekend getaway
    • Visiting family without paying cash for flights

    These smaller redemptions matter just as much as the big ones. Points only have value when redeemed, and programs benefit when members stay active.

    That’s the core of what PointsYeah does: remove friction, make redemption easier through free, fast searches, and keep members engaged.

    The future of loyalty isn’t only about earning more.

    It’s about using what you already have more frequently.

    More on This: After Redeeming 100M+ Miles, This One Rule Matters Most

  • Alaska Airlines Adds 6 New Routes for 2027, Including Flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and Tahiti

    Alaska Airlines Adds 6 New Routes for 2027, Including Flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and Tahiti

    Alaska Airlines is adding several new routes for 2027, including three international flights to Japan and French Polynesia.

    The airline announced new nonstop service from Seattle to Osaka and Papeete, Tahiti, on October 20. And it’s following that up with another expansion, including its first nonstop flight between Anchorage and Tokyo Narita.

    While the Seattle routes will operate on Hawaiian Airlines’ widebody aircraft, the Anchorage–Tokyo flight will use something a little different: a Boeing 737 MAX 8.

    Here’s what’s coming next year.

    Alaska Adds 3 New International Routes for 2027

    Alaska’s international expansion includes two new year-round routes from Seattle and seasonal service from Anchorage to Tokyo.

    RouteLaunch DateFrequencyAircraft
    Seattle (SEA) ↔ Osaka (KIX)May 14, 20274X weekly, year-roundHawaiian A330-200
    Anchorage (ANC) ↔ Tokyo Narita (NRT)May 13, 2027Daily during summerAlaska 737 MAX 8
    Seattle (SEA) ↔ Papeete (PPT)June 11, 20273X weekly, year-roundHawaiian A330-200

    The Anchorage–Tokyo route will initially operate through September 7, 2027, with service scheduled to resume three times weekly in January 2028.

    All three routes are on sale and bookable with cash or Atmos Rewards points. Some, including Seattle–Osaka, are already bookable with partner currencies such as American Airlines AAdvantage miles. Others, including Anchorage–Tokyo, aren’t yet available through partners.

    You can search these routes on PointsYeah and set award alerts to keep an eye on availability as more options become bookable.

    {{ search-widget mode=”flight” }}

    Seattle to Osaka and Tahiti

    The Seattle routes are part of Alaska’s broader effort to turn its largest hub into a major international gateway.

    Starting May 14, 2027, Hawaiian Airlines will fly between Seattle and Osaka four times weekly. The service will complement Hawaiian’s existing Honolulu–Osaka route.

    Then, on June 11, Hawaiian will begin flying between Seattle and Papeete three times weekly.

    This is a neat addition for travelers headed to French Polynesia. Alaska says the new service will provide convenient one-stop connections from cities across its domestic network, with same-day onward connections to Bora Bora and Moorea.

    Both flights will operate on Hawaiian’s Airbus A330-200 aircraft, which feature lie-flat business class seats and complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi for Atmos Rewards members.

    Hawaiian’s A330 fleet is also scheduled to begin receiving updated interiors in 2028, including new premium seating and a full cabin refresh.

    Anchorage to Tokyo Narita

    Alaska’s newest international announcement is a little more unusual.

    Beginning May 13, 2027, the airline will launch nonstop service between Anchorage and Tokyo Narita using a Boeing 737 MAX 8.

    That’s a narrowbody aircraft rather than the larger jets typically associated with transpacific service. And unlike Hawaiian’s A330s, which feature lie-flat business class seats, Alaska’s MAX 8 offers domestic-style First Class recliners.

    The Anchorage–Tokyo route will operate daily during the summer season, with three-times-weekly service scheduled to begin in January 2028.

    Alaska Is Also Adding 3 Domestic Routes From Anchorage

    On the domestic side, Alaska is also adding seasonal nonstop flights to Austin, Dallas–Fort Worth, and Nashville.

    RouteService DatesFrequency
    Anchorage (ANC) ↔ Austin (AUS)June 12 – August 7, 2027Once weekly
    Anchorage (ANC) ↔ Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW)June 12 – August 7, 2027Once weekly
    Anchorage (ANC) ↔ Nashville (BNA)June 12 – August 7, 2027Once weekly

    All three routes will operate on Saturdays.

    These flights will give travelers additional nonstop options for reaching Alaska during the summer, while also making it easier for Anchorage residents to reach destinations farther east without connecting through Seattle.

  • Southwest’s New Card Offers Could Help You Earn a Companion Pass Through 2027

    Southwest’s New Card Offers Could Help You Earn a Companion Pass Through 2027

    Chase’s three Southwest Rapid Rewards personal cards all have new welcome offers of up to 90,000 Rapid Rewards points. But there’s a timing element that matters more than the bonus sizes alone.

    Eligible new cardmembers who are approved on or before December 2, 2026, and meet the welcome-bonus spending requirement can have those bonus points count as 2026 Companion Pass qualifying points — even if they meet the spending requirement in early 2027. A Companion Pass earned under the current rules would be valid through December 31, 2027.

    That’s important because Southwest won’t allow credit card welcome bonuses to count toward Companion Pass qualification starting next year.

    Beyond the bonuses, each card has a different annual fee and set of Southwest benefits.

    Here’s how they compare.

    Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card

    {{ credit-card-widget uri=”plus” }}

    The Plus card is the least expensive of the three personal Southwest cards and currently offers 80,000 Rapid Rewards points after spending $1,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.

    This offer ends December 2, 2026.

    The card has a $99 annual fee. Benefits include a free first checked bag for the cardmember and up to eight others on the same reservation, complimentary Standard seat selection within 48 hours of departure when available, and boarding no later than Group 5.

    It also comes with 3,000 anniversary points, a 10% flight discount promo code each cardmember year (Basic fares excluded), and a 10,000-point Companion Pass qualifying boost each year.

    Click “Learn More” above for the current offer, full benefits, and application details.

    Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card

    The Premier card currently offers 85,000 Rapid Rewards points after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.

    This offer ends December 2, 2026.

    The card has a $149 annual fee. Like Plus, it includes a free first checked bag for the cardmember and up to eight others on the same reservation, plus boarding no later than Group 5. Seat selection steps up to Preferred or Standard seats within 48 hours of departure when available.

    It also comes with 6,000 anniversary points, a 15% flight discount promo code each cardmember year (Basic fares excluded), and a 10,000-point Companion Pass qualifying boost each year.

    Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card

    {{ credit-card-widget uri=”swapriority” }}

    The Priority card is the top-tier personal Southwest card and currently offers 90,000 Rapid Rewards points after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.

    This offer ends December 2, 2026.

    The card has a $229 annual fee. Cardholders can select Preferred or Standard seats at booking when available, rather than waiting until 48 hours before departure. It also provides complimentary upgrades to Extra Legroom seats within 48 hours of departure when available, for the cardmember and up to eight others on the same reservation.

    Other benefits include a free first checked bag for the cardmember and up to eight others on the same reservation, 7,500 anniversary points, a 10,000-point Companion Pass qualifying boost each year, and boarding no later than Group 5.

    Click “Learn More” above for the current offer, full benefits, and application details.

    These Offers Can Help Toward a Companion Pass

    Southwest’s Companion Pass lets a member designate one person to fly with them for only the taxes and fees whenever they fly Southwest, including when the original ticket was booked with points.

    Under the current rules, earning a Companion Pass requires 135,000 qualifying points in a calendar year (or 100 qualifying flights). Points from Southwest credit card welcome offers count toward that requirement, and each of these cards also provides a 10,000-point Companion Pass qualifying boost each year.

    Put differently, an 80,000- to 90,000-point welcome offer takes care of a substantial chunk of the 135,000-point requirement.

    But starting January 1, 2027, Companion Pass qualification moves to Tier Qualifying Points and flights, and new cardmember welcome bonuses will no longer count. That makes these limited-time offers a particularly interesting opportunity for anyone working toward a Companion Pass valid through the end of 2027.

    Denver, Colorado, USA - June 7, 2025: Passengers on a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-MAX8 aircraft settle in during a flight from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) in Virginia.
    JOHN CHASE / ISTOCK

    Who Is Eligible for the Offers?

    The eligibility rules are the same for all three personal Southwest cards, and there’s an important restriction to keep in mind.

    According to Chase’s offer terms, you aren’t eligible for any of these cards if you currently hold another Southwest Rapid Rewards personal credit card or received a welcome bonus on any Southwest Rapid Rewards personal card within the past 24 months.

    In other words, the restriction applies across all three personal cards, not separately to each product.

    The restriction doesn’t apply to Southwest Rapid Rewards business cards or employee cards. So holding a Southwest business card won’t, by itself, prevent you from qualifying for one of these personal-card offers.

  • Bilt Changes for 2027: New Ways to Earn Rewards, Plus Changes to Bilt Cash

    Bilt Changes for 2027: New Ways to Earn Rewards, Plus Changes to Bilt Cash

    Bilt is making some significant changes to its rewards program in 2027, including eliminating guaranteed points on rent and mortgage payments for members without a Bilt credit card.

    The changes, announced October 27, 2026, will roll out over the next few months. Some will make rewards easier to use, while others introduce new restrictions.

    The biggest change is coming January 15, when members who pay rent or a mortgage through Bilt without a Bilt Card will receive a new type of reward instead of the guaranteed points they earn today.

    There are also changes to Bilt Cash (a separate rewards currency that can be used toward eligible purchases and benefits), hotel redemptions, and credit card benefits.

    Here’s what you need to know.

    Guaranteed Rent and Mortgage Points Are Going Away for Some Members

    One of Bilt’s main selling points is that it lets members earn rewards on rent and mortgage payments. These are big expenses that traditionally don’t earn points.

    Currently, you don’t necessarily need a Bilt credit card to participate. But that’s changing on January 15, 2027.

    Starting then, members who pay rent or a mortgage through Bilt without a Bilt credit card will no longer earn guaranteed points on those payments. Instead, they’ll receive something Bilt calls a “Daily Reward.”

    Here’s how it works.

    Each on-time rent or mortgage payment unlocks a Daily Reward. Members can also unlock one each day by completing a qualifying activity with a participating neighborhood business, such as dining at a restaurant, taking a fitness class, or booking a Lyft ride.

    Each Daily Reward presents two options, and you choose which one to claim. These could include Bilt Points, Bilt Cash, other credits, or collectibles that count toward a chance to win larger prizes.

    Bilt is advertising prizes that include $1 million toward a home, 10 million Bilt Points, a year of free rent or mortgage payments, and free Lyft rides for a year.

    The full rules and prize details haven’t been released yet, so it’s unclear how likely members are to receive any particular reward.

    But more importantly, if you have a Bilt credit card, you’ll continue earning points on rent and mortgage payments as you do today. Daily Rewards will be an additional benefit rather than a replacement.

    One thing Bilt’s announcement doesn’t address is whether members will still be able to earn bonus airline miles on rent payments through eligible United MileagePlus or Alaska Atmos Rewards credit cards. Those partnerships aren’t mentioned in the update, and there’s no indication they’re being discontinued. So while we’d expect those earning opportunities to stick around, that hasn’t been explicitly confirmed, though it’s something we’re looking into.

    Bilt Cash Will Last Longer, but Hotel Redemptions Are Changing

    Bilt also announced two changes to Bilt Cash, which is different from the Bilt Points members can transfer to airline and hotel partners.

    Bilt Cash can be earned through certain credit card spending and used toward eligible benefits, including hotel bookings.

    The first change is positive: Bilt Cash will no longer expire at the end of the calendar year.

    Instead, it will remain valid through the end of the month, 12 months after it was earned. For example, $100 in Bilt Cash earned in February 2026 will now expire on February 28, 2027.

    That’s a welcome improvement, particularly for members who earn Bilt Cash toward the end of the year.

    However, starting January 1, 2027, members will only be able to redeem Bilt Cash toward eligible hotel bookings through Bilt twice per calendar year, rather than monthly.

    How much you can redeem depends on your Bilt membership level:

    Bilt Membership LevelMaximum Per Hotel RedemptionAnnual Maximum
    Blue and Silver$50$100
    Gold and Platinum$100$200
    Eligible Palladium cardholders$200$400

    Bilt’s existing two-night minimum stay requirement will still apply.

    And just to note: through December 31, 2026, the current monthly redemption rules will continue to apply.

    Bilt Credit Card Benefits Are Changing, Too

    Bilt is also simplifying how its credit cards earn rewards, although this part of the update is a little more complicated (but isn’t this whole thing complicated?).

    Currently, eligible Bilt cardholders can choose an option called Flexible Bilt Cash, which earns 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday purchases. That Cash can then be redeemed for eligible benefits.

    Bilt is retiring that option for cardholders who move to its new benefits structure.

    Instead, the new structure focuses on earning points on housing payments. Cardholders will be able to earn up to 1.25X Bilt Points on rent or mortgage payments, depending on their everyday card spending.

    That said, existing cardholders have a choice.

    If you already have a Bilt Card, or open one by December 31, 2026, you can opt out of the new benefits before your next card anniversary and keep the existing Flexible Bilt Cash option and eligible annual credits.

    If you don’t opt out, you’ll automatically move to the new benefits structure on your card anniversary.

    Bilt says cardholders who opt out won’t be able to switch between Flexible Bilt Cash and the new housing-focused earning option afterward, so it’s worth reviewing the differences before making a decision.

    One thing that isn’t changing is how many points Bilt credit cards earn on regular everyday purchases.

    Bilt has also made eligible card upgrades available through its app.

    Changes to annual card credits

    Bilt is also changing some of the annual benefits on its higher-end Obsidian and Palladium credit cards.

    For Palladium cardholders, the existing $200 Bilt Cash credit and $400 hotel credit will be combined into a single $600 annual Bilt Cash credit.

    For Obsidian cardholders, the existing $100 hotel credit will become $100 in annual Bilt Cash.

    The benefit of these changes is flexibility. Rather than having credits reserved specifically for hotel bookings, cardholders will be able to use their Bilt Cash toward a broader range of eligible redemptions.

    These annual credits will also be issued on each cardholder’s account anniversary instead of January 1.

    Obsidian and Palladium cardholders who move to the new benefits structure will retain access to Point Accelerator, which lets them redeem Bilt Cash for additional points-earning opportunities.

    More Benefits for Bilt Elite Members

    Bilt is also planning a few new benefits for members who have earned elite status in its rewards program.

    Starting in 2027, Gold and Platinum members will be able to redeem Bilt Points toward stays at participating Home Away from Home hotels, including access to eligible luxury hotel benefits.

    There are also new rental car status matches planned:

    • Platinum members: SIXT ONE Platinum and Hertz President’s Circle.
    • Gold and Silver members: SIXT ONE Gold and Hertz Five Star.

    Bilt hasn’t yet announced the full terms or timing for these status matches.

  • Two Citi AAdvantage Cards Are Getting More Expensive (and More Benefits)

    Two Citi AAdvantage Cards Are Getting More Expensive (and More Benefits)

    Citi and American Airlines are refreshing two cards in the AAdvantage portfolio. And starting January 24, 2027, both will cost more to keep.

    The Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard and Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard will each see their annual fees increase from $99 to $150 on that date.

    Along with the fee increases, both cards are getting expanded earning rates and a handful of new travel and lifestyle benefits. But the perks that make these cards attractive in the first place (like free checked bags, preferred boarding, and their core American Airlines earning rates) aren’t going anywhere.

    What’s New on the Platinum Select Card

    The Platinum Select is American Airlines’ card designed for occasional travelers, and the refresh leans into everyday spending and a few lifestyle perks.

    Cardholders will earn 3X AAdvantage miles on eligible bookings through AAdvantage Hotels and AAdvantage Cars. The existing 2X gas station category will also expand to include EV charging stations.

    New 2X categories include select streaming services and eligible Rides and Rails purchases (including ferries, commuter railways, subways, taxis, limousines, car services, rideshare services, passenger railways, tolls, parking, and bus lines).

    The American Airlines flight discount earned after spending $20,000 in a cardmember year and renewing the card will also increase from $125 to $150.

    Citi is adding up to $120 toward a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four years, plus up to $100 annually in statement credits for inflight purchases. Primary cardmembers will also receive a complimentary annual Walmart+ membership and a 50% discount on an annual FOX One subscription.

    New travel protections include trip delay, trip cancellation and interruption, car rental coverage, and lost baggage protection.

    What Stays the Same on Platinum Select

    Several staple benefits aren’t changing.

    Cardholders will continue earning 2X miles on eligible American Airlines purchases and at restaurants, 1X on everything else, and one Loyalty Point for every $1 spent on eligible purchases.

    The card also retains up to $180 annually in Turo credits (up to $30 per eligible trip), 10% savings on eligible American Airlines Vacations packages, preferred boarding for the cardmember and up to four companions on the same reservation, and a free first checked bag on domestic American Airlines itineraries for the cardmember and up to four companions.

    Overhead shot of two American Airlines / Citi credit cards.
    CITIBANK

    What’s New on the Business Card

    The Business card’s refresh focuses more on earning flexibility rather than lifestyle perks.

    Cardholders will earn 3X miles on eligible AAdvantage Hotels and AAdvantage Cars bookings. They’ll also be able to select one category for 2X miles: U.S. shipping providers, office supply stores, or U.S. advertising services.

    Citi is also adding up to $120 toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years, up to $100 annually in inflight statement credits, 25% off a Melio subscription plan (bill paying software for businesses), and travel protections covering trip cancellation and interruption, lost or damaged baggage, car rentals, and trip delays.

    What Stays the Same on the Business Card

    The card’s core earning rates aren’t changing. Cardholders will continue earning 2X miles on eligible American Airlines purchases, car rental merchants, gas stations, and telecommunications, cable, and satellite providers, plus 1X on everything else.

    Businesses will continue earning one Loyalty Point per dollar of eligible card spending for each cardmember. Primary cardmembers will also keep earning one additional Loyalty Point per dollar spent by authorized users through December 31, 2028.

    After spending $30,000 in a cardmember year and renewing the card, cardholders will still receive a $99 American Airlines Companion Certificate for a qualifying domestic round-trip Main Cabin flight.

    Preferred boarding for the cardmember and up to four companions on the same reservation, a free first checked bag on domestic American Airlines itineraries (for the cardmember and up to four companions), and 10% savings on eligible American Airlines Vacations packages are all staying on board, too.

    What to Do Before January 24, 2027

    Nothing is changing with how either card works today.

    Cardmembers will get access to the new benefits on January 24, 2027, when the higher annual fees also take effect. Existing cardholders will pay the new fee when their cards renew on or after that date.

    That gives you time to try the new benefits and decide whether they’re worth the additional $51 per year.

    On the personal side, there are other AAdvantage cards worth considering if the refreshed Platinum Select no longer makes sense. Two sit above it with more benefits and higher annual fees, while the no-annual-fee AAdvantage MileUp offers a cheaper alternative with fewer perks.

    On the business side, options are more limited. The Citi / AAdvantage Business card is currently the only AAdvantage business credit card available to new applicants, so there isn’t another Citi AAdvantage business product to move to if the refresh doesn’t appeal to you.

    That said, the expanded earning categories are a welcome improvement. Earning flexibility has long been one of the Business card’s weaker points, and these changes help address that, even with the higher annual fee.

    Ultimately, refresh or not, it’s worth periodically reviewing the cards in your wallet to make sure you’re getting enough value from their benefits to justify keeping them.

  • WestJet Is Raising Status Thresholds Again for 2027

    WestJet Is Raising Status Thresholds Again for 2027

    WestJet is making it more expensive to earn elite status next year.

    Starting January 1, 2027, you’ll need more Tier Qualifying Spend (TQS, measured in Canadian dollars) to earn Silver, Gold, or Platinum status in WestJet Rewards. This marks the second increase in just two years, following the last round of changes on January 1, 2025.

    But unlike the previous changes, WestJet isn’t adding or removing benefits at each tier this time. It’s simply raising the spending requirements to earn the same perks during the next status year.

    What’s Changing for 2027

    Compared to the current requirements, Silver will require 25% more TQS, Gold about 33% more, and Platinum 50% more.

    Tier2026 TQS2027 TQS
    Silver$4,000$5,000
    Gold$6,000$8,000
    Platinum$10,000$15,000

    Hit Your 2026 Threshold by December 31

    If you meet the current qualifying spend requirements by December 31, 2026, you’ll keep your earned status benefits throughout 2027. The TQS you earn during 2027 will then determine your status for 2028.

    So if you’re close to reaching a new tier this year, you still have until the end of December to qualify under the existing requirements.

    The Second Increase in Two Years

    In January 2025, WestJet raised its status qualification requirements for the first time since 2018. Silver increased from $3,000 to $4,000, Gold from $5,000 to $6,000, and Platinum from $8,000 to $10,000.

    After seven years without an increase, that first adjustment wasn’t entirely surprising. But another round of increases just two years later is a different story.

    To put it in perspective, earning Platinum status in 2027 will require 50% more qualifying spend than it does today, and nearly twice as much as it did before 2025.