Category Archives: Rewards Programs

Chase rewards credit cards – A complete guide for 2023

Chase Bank is one of the largest financial institutions in the USA. They serve almost half of the US population with their products. Chase offers a variety of products such as Chase rewards credit cards, checking accounts, ATMs, Debit cards, mortgages, loans, and other financial products. JP Morgan Chase and Company is the parent company of Chase Bank.

Chase offers a number of Rewards credit cards. They also offer co-branded credit cards with Marriott Bonvoy, United, Southwest, and Air Canada airlines. Chase also offers co-branded credit cards with Amazon. Finally, to know more about shopping credit cards read our post.

Chase Rewards Credit Cards Advantages and Offerings

Chase Rewards offer a number of advantages to credit card members. Some of these include.

  1. Zero Liability Protection

Chase Rewards credit card offers zero liability protection. Members are not responsible for any unauthorized charges made with their card or account information. They have to call Chase Credit cards to report any theft or loss of the credit card.

  1. Purchase Protection 

This card also offers Purchase Protection for new purchases for 120 days. Any new purchases made on the card are covered for $500 of theft or damage claim. Every account is covered for a sum of $50,000. 

  1. Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver

Chase Rewards card offers Auto rental collision damage waiver. Members have to decline the rental company’s collision insurance to qualify. They need to charge the entire rental cost to their card to qualify for the damage waiver claim.  Coverage is provided for theft and collision damage for most cars in the U.S. and abroad. In the U.S., coverage is secondary to personal insurance.

  1. Extended Warranty Protection

Chase Rewards credit card extends the time period of the U.S. manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year, on eligible warranties of three years or less. This is nifty for new purchases, especially for electronics and appliances.

  1. Trip Cancellation

Further, Chase credit card offers Trip Cancellation and trip interruption Insurance. To be eligible for this travel insurance the purchase must be made on the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card. Although, the maximum reimbursement is up to $1,500 per person. There is also a $6,000 per trip restriction. To qualify, trips should be all pre-paid, non-refundable passenger fares.

Chase Rewards Credit Cards List

Herein, we will review the current Chase Rewards credit cards for their offers. 

Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card

chase rewards credit cards

Fees: This credit card charges $0 in annual fees.

Intro Rewards: Cardmembers can earn a $200 bonus after they spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. They can also earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases up to $12,000 spent in the first year. This offer excludes purchases at Target and Walmart. This amounts to a saving of $600 on everyday grocery purchases. Furthermore, this card offers an introductory 0% APR for 15 months on balance transfers and purchases.  

Rewards: Cardmembers earn cashback of 1.5% for every purchase. Apart from this cashback, they can also win 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases. Dining rewards are available for dining at restaurants, takeout, or even delivery from restaurants. Members can win 5% cash back on travel bookings through Chase Ultimate Rewards. 

In a nutshell: The Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit card is one of the best rewards cards in the market with $0 annual fees. It offers a flat 1.5% cashback on most purchases. It also offers additional cashback on other categories such as travel, grocery, drugstores, and dining out. Finally, this card is a 0% introductory APR credit card. It offers this 0% APR for 15 months.

Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card

chase rewards credit cards
Freedom Flex

Fees: Chase Freedom Flex credit cards charge $0 in joining and annual fees

Intro Rewards: This credit card offers a $200 bonus on a spend of $500 in the first three months of the card approval. It offers a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on balance transfers and purchases.

Rewards: Freedom Flex offers 5% cash back on purchases from grocery stores, gas stations, and select online merchants. Further, it also offers 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards

In a nutshell: Chase Freedom Flex Card offers excellent rewards on everyday purchases categories. For example, groceries, gas, and online merchants. It also offers 5% cash back on travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards. This card also offers a 3% cash back on dining at restaurants and drugstore purchases. For the other purchases, there is a cashback of 1%.

Cash back never expires on this card. This card also offers Zero Liability protection and purchase protection. Further, other additional offers and benefits are available from Mastercard. 

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

chase rewards credit cards
Sapphire Preferred

Fees: Annual fee of $95 and a 3% introductory balance transfer fee which increases to 5% of the balance transfer fee

Intro Rewards: 60,000 bonus points after the card member spends $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of the new card opening. These bonus points are worth $750 when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Rewards:  This credit card offers $50 statement credits every anniversary year for hotel stays purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards. This card also offers 5x total points on all travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Card members can also earn 2x points on airfare, hotel booking, and taxis. Card members can earn 3x points on eligible online grocery purchases and on dining and takeout from restaurants. 

In a nutshell: Chase Sapphire Preferred is a great travel rewards credit card. Read more to know more about the best travel credit cards. The best part about this credit card is the bonus anniversary points. Each anniversary year the card member is eligible for 10% of bonus points of the total spent in the last year. If a customer made a purchase of $10,000 in a year, they are eligible for 1,000 bonus points. This card offers discounts or membership benefits from several other companies like Doordash, Instacart, Lyft, etc.

Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Credit Card

retailers credit card
Amazon Prime Rewards

Fees: $0 with a valid Amazon Prime membership

Intro Rewards: Card members earn a $150 welcome Amazon Gift Card upon approval of a new credit card. 

Rewards: Further, members earn 5% back in rewards on Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market. They also earn 2% rewards in restaurants and gas stations. Finally, they receive 1% reward on the rest of their purchases.

In a nutshell: Firstly, this card requires the card members to have a valid Amazon Prime membership. This is good for existing card members. The current cost of the Prime membership is $39 per month. Chase and Amazon also offer another credit card Amazon Rewards Visa Card. The card doesn’t require a Prime membership but it also offers lower rewards.

Card members can redeem the cashback on Amazon.com or they can select to redeem it for gift cards, travel, or dining deals on Chase Rewards. Finally, this card offers the card members complimentary Visa Signature Concierge Service 24 hours a day. 

Chase Freedom Student Card

chase rewards credit cards
Freedom Student

Fees: This card has no annual fee.

Intro Rewards: Card members earn $50 bonus on making the first purchase within 3 months of card opening.

Rewards: Chase Freedom offers very little incentive to users. For instance, it offers a measly 1% cashback on all purchases. On the other hand, the main advantage of this card is the high acceptance rate for students. Chase Freedom Student Card provides free access to credit scores as well.

In a nutshell: No credit score is required to apply for this card. This is a good starter credit card to build credit over time. This card rewards making timely payments by increasing the credit limit. They also provide a good standing reward of $20 each anniversary year for 5 years.

IHG One Rewards Program – A complete guide to rewards

IHG One Rewards Program is the loyalty program from IHG Hotels & Resorts. IHG is a global chain of hotels and resorts with 18 brands and 6,000+ hotel destinations globally. IHG has more than 800,000 rooms in its portfolio. They currently operate in more than 100 locations across the world.

IHG has 18 brands that offer Super Luxury to everyday Business hotels. Their luxury and lifestyle collection includes some of the iconic brands. For instance, Six Senses, Regent, Vignette, Intercontinental, Kimpton, and Hotel Indigo. Next on the list are their Premium collection of hotels and resorts. These include Voco, Hualuxe, Even, and Crowne Plaza. Then next on the list are the essential collections of hotels. These are Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and Avid hotels. They also have a Suites collection which includes Atwell Suites, Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, and Candlewood suites. IHG also has an exclusive partnership with Iberostar beachfront resorts.

IHG One is a membership program that covers all 18 brands of IHG. It offers lots of ways to earn and use points every day for its loyalty program members. Members can start earning points on every dollar spent. There is no limit to the number of points a member can earn. Additionally, they offer co-branded credit cards with Chase Bank. Members can earn exclusive elite benefits and even more points with these credit cards.

IHG One Rewards program

IHG One Rewards Members get access to exclusive discounts. These exclusive rates are only for members booking directly through IHG.com. Further, they can win points on their room rates and other incidentals charged to the room. Members earn points at more than 6,000 participating hotels worldwide. 

Members earn ten Points per US dollar on Qualifying Stays at most IHG brand hotels. They earn five  Points per US dollar at Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites properties. At IHG army hotels, members earn 3 points for every US dollar spent by them. Further, members earn 2.5 points on every US dollar spent on the residential properties of IHG.

Members can redeem their points for free reward nights. IHG does not put blackout dates on reward nights. Members can stay at their convenience at any location when redeeming points. IHG One Rewards points do not expire. As long as, a member is enrolled in the program, they can earn points on their qualifying stays.

IHG One Rewards members get some privileges at the IHG properties. These include free WI-FI during the hotel stay. Members also get late checkouts till 2 pm subject to availability. 

IHG One Rewards membership tiers 

IHG One Rewards has five tiers of membership. Elite members get access to perks like Bonus Points, Reward Night Discounts, Welcome amenities, Milestone Rewards, and many more benefits.

Members can keep their Elite status for a calendar year, once they reached the status. If they start a year with one Elite status, they need to meet the minimum qualification criteria in terms of the number of nights and points for the status to maintain the same. 

Any extra nights in a year will roll over to maintain the status for the next year. For example, if a member is at Gold Tier, they need a minimum of 20 nights to maintain Gold Tier status. If they spend say 25 nights in 2021. Only 20 nights are required to maintain Gold tier status in 2021. The extra 5 nights will roll over to maintain the status in 2022.

IHG One Rewards
IHG One Rewards

IHG members can purchase up to 150,000 IHG One Rewards Points in a year. Points must be purchased in minimum increments of 1,000 Points.

IHG Rewards Points are classified as either Elite Qualifying Points or Non-Elite Qualifying Points. Only Elite Qualifying Points count towards Elite status. Qualifying spends include qualifying rates for hotel stays, select partner activity, Bonus points package, and purchases on IHG Credit Cards in UK and China. 

Club Tier 

This is the starting default tier for all customers joining the IHG One program. Members earn rewards points on every stay with IHG Hotels or resorts. They can use these points for free nights, travel experiences with partners, exclusive experiences, or more. Members receive members-only exclusive rates. These discounted rates can be booked on IHG.com. 

Silver Elite Tier 

This is the 2nd membership tier in the IHG One Rewards membership program. To reach this level, members must complete 10 nights in a calendar year. Silver tier members inherit all the benefits of the membership tier. Apart from the above benefits, they also get 20% bonus points on every booking. Further, they get access to members-only discounts and rates.

Gold Elite Tier

Members spending 20 nights or 40,000 base points elevate to Gold Elite Tier with IHG. These members inherit all the benefits of the silver elite tier to their status. Additionally, they receive 40% bonus points on their stays. Gold Elite members receive the benefits of rollover nights. 

Platinum Elite Tier

The next Elite tier is the Platinum Elite tier. To reach the Platinum tier the members need to stay for 40 nights or earn 60,000 base points with IHG One Rewards. These members inherit all the benefits of the Gold elite tier and below tiers to their Platinum status. Additionally, they receive 60% bonus points on their stays. Platinum members get confirmed availability of hotel rooms if they book 72 hours in advance. 

At the time of check in, the Platinum Elite members also get an upgraded room. They also get early check in at the hotels. Both these features are subject to the availability of rooms at the participating hotel. Platinum members also receive either points or a welcome gift at the time of checking in.

Diamond Elite Tier

Diamond Elite tier is the highest membership status in the IHG One Rewards program. Members staying for 70 nights or earning 120,000 base points will receive Diamond elite tier status. Apart from inheriting all the perks of the lower tiers, the Diamond tier offers 100% Bonus Points. 

Diamond elite tier members can avail of dedicated Diamond customer support. These dedicated agents can help with any needs with respect to hotel reservations or other customer needs. They get guaranteed rooms in select hotels on a 48-hour period notice. Elite tier members can select Welcome amenity at the time of check-in. The options also include complimentary breakfast for the member and one accompanying guest. 

Milestone Bonus Rewards

Milestones bonus rewards are additional rewards points on completing 20 nights with IHG hotels. Members earn a fixed amount of IHG Bonus rewards after achieving 20 nights and in increments of 10 nights. For complete details on the awards on eligible nights, please refer to the below table.

Eligible NightsMilestone Rewards
20 NightsChoose one of the following:
5,000 Bonus Points2 Food & Beverage Rewards1 Confirmable Suite Upgrade
30 NightsChoose one of the following:
5,000 Bonus Points2 Food & Beverage Rewards
40 NightsChoose two of the following:
10,000 Bonus Points5 Food & Beverage Rewards1 Confirmable Suite Upgrade (limit 1)Annual Lounge Membership (limit 1)
50 NightsChoose one of the following:
10,000 Bonus Points5 Food & Beverage Rewards
60 NightsChoose one of the following:
10,000 Bonus Points5 Food & Beverage Rewards
70 NightsChoose two of the following:
10,000 Bonus Points5 Food & Beverage Rewards2 Confirmable Suite Upgrades (limit 1)Annual Lounge Membership (limit 1)
80 NightsChoose one of the following:
10,000 Bonus Points5 Food & Beverage Rewards
90 NightsChoose one of the following:
10,000 Bonus Points5 Food & Beverage Rewards
100 NightsChoose one of the following:
10,000 Bonus Points5 Food & Beverage Rewards

Members can redeem a Food & Beverage Reward for credit against applicable food and beverage charges during a hotel stay. Each voucher can be redeemed for up to a maximum of USD20 per voucher. Each Food & Beverage Reward can only be used once. Lounge Membership provides access to the hotel’s Club Lounge. Once Annual Lounge Membership is chosen it will be valid until the end of the year and for one more year. Confirmable Suite Upgrades will be applicable for one room upgrade to an entry-level suite or premium room.

Rewards and redemption of Points

IHG one reward members can redeem their Points for rewards nights and a number of experiences of their choice. Members also get offers specific to them from time to time to earn more rewards. IHG also offers time-sensitive deals which offer bonus reward points. 

Rewards nights

Members can redeem their Points to book rewards nights in IHG Hotels and Resorts. They can book any combination of Points and money. IHG One Rewards Members can choose any dates at their convenience and on the basis of their reward points balance. 

All the reward nights need to be booked in advance with the participating hotel.  Members may redeem Points for Reward Nights on the IHG One Rewards website, the IHG One Rewards App, or through IHG Customer Care. Resort fees and/or service charges at individual hotels may apply. Members may choose to pay fewer points when redeeming free nights. They can select to Pay Part in cash and part in points.

Gifts 

IHG also has an exclusive digital catalog to redeem points. IHG One Reward members can redeem their points from this catalog. This catalog includes digital products like Electronics, Bags, and other hundreds of products across multiple categories.

Members can also choose to gift their points to charities of their choice from this catalog. Charities include Red Cross and Care International. Further, members can redeem points for gift cards.

Experiences 

Additionally, members can also redeem Points for experiences. They can book a complete travel package by logging into their One Member account. IHG One Rewards Access is a benefit made available exclusively to members of IHG One Reward. IHG has an auction site, where members can put in bids for VIP experiences as part of IHG One Rewards Access.

Rental Cars 

IHG One Rewards Program can also help save members on booking cabs from Hertz. They can save on base rates and earn 1,500+ IHG One Rewards points when they rent with Hertz.

Airline Miles

IHG One Reward members can redeem points for miles with partner airlines. IHG has partnered with select airlines so that Rewards members can earn miles toward their frequent flyer program of choice. 

InterContinental Ambassador

IHG One Rewards Member can also purchase a membership in the InterContinental Ambassador program. This is an exclusive program at InterConnitenantal Hotels & Resorts. There is a higher level of recognition that InterContinental Ambassador membership entitles to the members. Members can purchase this membership for $200 for a 12-month membership. Alternatively, they can purchase this membership for 40,000 IHG One Rewards points.

Another benefit of this program includes exclusive enhance travel benefits. Members receive an enhanced Platinum Elite tier status elevation. 

Ambassador members get benefits such as late checkouts till 4 pm. They also receive free mineral water bottles in the room. Complimentary premium internet for the Ambassador members in all hotels with the facility. They also get a free upgrade to an upper-category room and a $20 credit for food and bar spending.

IHG Co-branded Credit Cards

IHG also has a partnership with Chase Bank to issue co-branded credit cards. These credit cards offer the users to earn Points on staying with IHG hotels and resorts as well as on everyday purchases.

IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card

hotel credit card

Fees: This credit card has a $99 annual fee.

Rewards: Cardmembers earn 140,000 Bonus Points on spending $3,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

Pros of this card: Cardmembers earn 26x points with this card and an IHG One Rewards membership. They earn 10x points on spending IHG properties. They earn also earn 10x points from IHG on booking hotels from IHG hotels and resorts. This card elevates the current status of the cardholder to IHG Platinum Elite status. With the Platinum Elite tier, members get 60% bonus points. So 6x points. Hence, a member can earn 26x points.

They also earn 5x points on travel, hotels, gas stations, and restaurants. For, the rest of the purchases card members earn 3X points for every dollar spent.

Cardmembers also earn a $100 statement credit and 10,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 each calendar year. If the members spend more than $40,000 in a year on this credit card. IHG tier status of the member will also upgrade to the Diamond Elite tier. 

Further, on redeeming 3 consecutive nights at a property the card members receive the 4th night free at the same property. They can also redeem statement credit of up to $100 spent on Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or Nexus. Card members also get $50 in United Travel cash each calendar year.

Cardmember also receives one anniversary night free every year. Further, there is trip cancellation insurance offered on this card. If a trip booked on this credit card is canceled, a maximum of $10,000 per trip is paid.

Finally, this credit card offers Purchase Protection. This offer covers any theft or damage of up to $500 per claim for 120 days of purchasing any product with this card up to $50,000 per account. 

IHG Rewards Traveler Credit Card

Fees: This credit card has a $0 annual fee.

Rewards: Cardmembers earn 120,000 Bonus Points on spending $2,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

Pros of this card: Cardmembers can earn 17x points with this card and an IHG One Rewards membership. They earn 5x points on spending at IHG properties. They earn also earn 10x points from IHG on booking hotels from IHG hotels and resorts. This card elevates the current status of the cardholder to IHG Silver Elite status. 2x bonus points for Silver Elite tier status. Hence, a member can earn 17x points.

They also earn 3x points on travel, hotels, gas stations, and restaurants. Cardmembers further earn 3x points on everyday purchases of utilities, internet, cable, and phone services. For, the rest of the purchases card members earn 2X points for every dollar spent.

Further, on redeeming 3 consecutive nights at a property the card members receive the 4th night free at the same property. Cardmembers earn 10,000 points on spending $10,000 in a year. If the members spend more than $20,000 in a year on this credit card. IHG tier status of the member will also upgrade to the Gold Elite tier.

Finally, this credit card also offers Purchase Protection. This offer covers any theft or damage of up to $500 per claim for 120 days of purchasing any product with this card up to $50,000 per account. 

Hilton Honors Loyalty Program – A complete guide to awards

The Hilton Honors is the loyalty program from Hilton Hotels. Hilton is a global chain of more than 7000 hotels globally in more than 120 locations of the world. 

We have also covered loyalty programs from other hotel chains including World of Hyatt Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy Rewards.

Hilton offers lots of ways to earn and use Points every day for their loyalty program members. Loyalty Members can start earning points on every dollar spent, the moment they sign up for Hilton Honors. There is no limit to the number of Base Points a member can earn. Additionally, they offer co-branded credit cards with American Express. Members can earn exclusive elite benefits and earn even more points with these credit cards.

Earn Hilton Honors Points 

Members can win points on their room rates as well as the total folio charges. Total folio charges include other incidentals charged to the room. The incidentals include dining, telephone, laundry, pay-per-view movies, entertainment, and recreational facilities. Any applicable federal, state or local tax is excluded from any earning points. 

Further, members can earn 500 Bonus Points when they join the Hilton Honors Dining Program. In order to qualify they need to spend $25 at participating restaurants. They need to complete an online review in the first 30 days of activating the membership. In addition, they earn Points for every $1 spent at participating restaurants, bars, and clubs.

hilton honors

Members can also earn points when they sign up for Guest Opinion Rewards. This is an online portal that helps Hilton hotels to collect member opinions. First-time users get 1250 points for participating in the first survey. Then earn Points for each additional survey.

Additionally, Hilton Honors Members can earn up to 5,000 Points on qualifying car rentals. The qualifying car rental companies include Alamo, Enterprise, and National.

Hilton Honors permit members to buy Points. They can buy up to 80,000 Points in a calendar year. They can also exchange Points. Hilton Honors points can be transferred as well. Members can also pool points in a single account. Further, they can use the Pooled points to book a stay together. 

Hilton Honors membership tiers 

Hilton Honor offers membership tiers. Each tier offers rewards of amenities, bonus points, and enhanced experience. Qualification to these tiers depends on the number of nights of stay or points earned. Members may earn a higher Elite status when their stays, nights, or Base Points are in a calendar year. To qualify the Member for the next tier they need to maintain the same spending.

Once a Member reaches a certain Elite tier, they may keep the such status for the calendar year in which the Elite tier is earned and the subsequent calendar year. Hilton Honors have a membership tier and other Elite Tier status. The Elite tier status includes Silver Elite Member, Gold Elite Member, and Diamond Elite Member status. 

Member Tier 

This is the starting default tier for all customers joining the Hilton Honors program. Members earn rewards points on every stay with Hilton Hotels or resorts. For every $1 spent in hotels, they earn 10 points. The award of points on certain brands They can use these points for free nights, travel experiences with partners, exclusive experiences, or more. 

Members receive an exclusive rate when they book on Hilton.com or the Hilton app. Hilton provides digital keys to the members for all hotel rooms. They can use the Hilton Honors app on their phone to unlock their room doors. Members can redeem their rewards for free nights for room bookings in Hilton Hotels and resorts. As members, the resort fee is waived on redeeming nights. 

hilton honors booking
Hilton Booking

Members can also use the Hilton Honors app to do digital check-in or checkout from anywhere. They can also choose any room of their choice up to 24 hours in advance. They can also use complimentary wi-fi throughout the hotels. 

Silver Elite Tier 

This is the 2nd membership tier in the Hilton Honors membership program. To reach this level, members need to spend 10 nights and complete 4 stays with Hilton. They can also achieve this status by earning 25,00 points.  

Silver tier members inherit all the benefits of the membership tier. Apart from the above benefits, they also get 20% bonus points on every booking. Members also receive complimentary 2 bottles of water when they arrive (at select hotels). They also get the fifth night free on booking a stay with Hilton Hotels for four nights. This needs to redeem points for this four-day stay. Additionally, these members enjoy 15% discounts on spas within the Hilton portfolio of brands. 

Finally, they can roll over extra night credit to maintain or improve their status for the next calendar year. 

Gold Elite Tier

Members spending 40 nights or 20 stays or 75,000 base points receive Gold Elite Tier with Hilton Honors. These members inherit all the benefits of the silver elite tier to their status. Additionally, they receive 80% bonus points on Base Points on their stays. Hilton will also offer an upgraded room subject to availability. 

Gold Elite tier members receive MyWay benefits. As part of this benefit, they’ll receive a Daily Food & Beverage Credit at select brands in the U.S., and Motto by Hilton globally. They can also receive complimentary Continental Breakfast at select brands outside the U.S. This benefit is for the member and one additional guest registered to the same room each night of their stay. Gold tier members and one of their registered guests also get access to the Exclusive Lounge in the hotels. They should be staying on the Executive floor in the hotels.

Diamond Elite Tier

This tier is the highest membership status in the Hilton Honors program. Members spending 60 nights, 30 stays, or earning 120,000 base points will receive Diamond elite tier status. Apart from inheriting all the perks of the lower tiers, the diamond tier offers 100% Bonus Points. 

Diamond members and one accompanied guest also get complimentary access to Executive lounges in the hotels. Members can relax and enjoy culinary delights and drinks in Executive lounges. These members also get complimentary access to Premium wifi at participating hotels. They also get guaranteed rooms in select hotels on a 48-hour period notice. 

Hilton honors
Hilton Spa and Experience

Members completing Diamond tier status for three years and staying 250 life nights. Alternatively, earning 500,000 base points get an extension of status for a year. This one-year extension doesn’t require any minimum criteria. Diamond members can give Gold status as a gift to any other member on hitting 60 nights in the calendar year. If the member hits 100 nights in a calendar year, they can gift a Diamond status. 

Lifetime Diamond status is awarded to a select few Hilton Honor members. To achieve Lifetime Diamond status, a member has to reach some milestones. They need to keep the Diamond tier status for 10 years. Or they may have spent 1,000 nights in Hilton hotels. Alternatively, they might have earned 2 million Base Points. 

Accrual of Bonus Points

Members earn a fixed amount of Hilton Honors Bonus Points after achieving eligible nights each year. They earn 10,000 Bonus Points at 40 eligible nights. Further, they earn 10,000 Bonus Points for every 10 additional eligible nights thereafter. 

Members will earn an additional 30,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points on their 60th eligible night per calendar year. 

Within a calendar year, the maximum number of nights that a member could achieve toward these bonuses is 365 nights. These are equivalent to an additional 360,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points per year. Milestone Bonuses are considered bonus points. Hence, they do not count as base points for the purposes of earning status for the calendar year.

Rewards and redemption of Points

Hilton Honors members can redeem their Points on a number of experiences of their choice. They also get access to Exclusive Hilton Honors Experiences. Members can redeem their reward points to bid on auctions to win these experiences. 

Hilton Honors
Hilton Dining

Free nights

Members can redeem their Points to book free nights in Hilton Hotels and Resorts. They can book any combination of Points and money. The best part about the Hilton rewards is that there are no blackout dates. Members can choose any dates at their convenience and on the basis of their reward points balance. Hilton Honors Points can be earned for stays only at hotels within the Hilton Portfolio. 

Experiences

Hilton Honor members get VIP access to concerts, dining, sporting events, and more with their Points. These exclusive events are usually placed in auctions. Members can put in bids to win access to these events. Hilton Honors Experience team reaches out to the winning members within 2 business days. They will confirm the identity of the member and issue the requisite tickets.

Lyft rides

Members can also link their Lyft account with the Hilton Honors account. They can earn points on Lyft rides. Members can earn 3 points for $1. They can also redeem the Hilton Honors Points to pay for rides. 

hilton honors lyft
Hilton Lyft rides

Shopping

Hilton also offers an online mall to redeem points. Members can select Shop with Points options to redeem points in the online mall. They can also redeem points on everyday purchases at Amazon.com

Rental cars

Additionally, members can also redeem Points for car rentals with multiple rental car providers. For instance, Alamo, National, and Enterprise.

Airline transfers

Hilton also has partnerships with several airlines. Hilton Honors Loyalty Members can convert their Points into airline miles. 

Hilton Honors members can also connect their Hilton Honors and Ticketmaster accounts. They can also redeem Points for live experiences like Live Nation concerts. Also games and other events on LiveNation.com and Ticketmaster.com.

Hilton Honors Co-branded Credit Cards

Hilton also has a partnership with American Express to issue co-branded credit cards. These credit cards offer users to earn Base Points. They earn points on staying with Hilton as well as on everyday purchases.

Hilton Honors Card

Hilton Honors Card

Fees: This credit card charges $0 in annual fees. It also charges no foreign transaction fees.

Rewards: Card members also earn 100,000 Bonus Points. They have to spend $2,000 in purchases on this credit card within the first 6 months.

Pros of this card: Firstly, this credit card offers complimentary Silver status in Hilton Honors. If card members spend more than $20,000 in a calendar year. The status will also upgrade to Gold Tier status. 

Card members earn 7x points on eligible purchases in the Hilton hotels and resorts portfolio. They also earn 5x points on dining, takeouts, or delivery in US restaurants. Further, customers also earn 5x points on Groceries at the US supermarket. Cardmembers earn 5x points for gas at US gas stations. For the rest of the eligible purchases, they will earn 3x points.

Further, American Express also provides other offers for their card users. These include the Global Assist Hotline to offer assistance in case of an emergency. Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance Protection for rental cars. Complimentary membership to ShopRunner with free 2-day shipping. 

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card

Hilton Honors

Fees: This credit card charges $95 in annual fees but no charges on foreign transactions. 

Rewards: Card members also earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points. They have to spend $3,000 in purchases on this credit card within the first 6 months of the credit card membership.

Pros and Cons of this card: Firstly, this credit card offers complimentary Gold status in Hilton Honors. They can also get a free upgrade to the Diamond tier on spending $40,000 in a year. Further, members can earn a free night of spending $15,000 in a year.

Card members earn 12x points on eligible purchases in the Hilton hotels. They also earn 6x points on dining and takeout at US restaurants. In addition, they earn 6x points on gas at US gas stations. They also earn 6x points for groceries at US supermarkets. For the rest of the eligible purchases, they earn 3x points.

Further, this card offers other American Express features such as Global Assist and Send & Split. It also offers Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance, and others. Finally, this card also offers Priority Pass Select membership for Primary cardholders. Members get 10 complimentary visits every year. They get access to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Hilton Honors
Hilton Honors Aspire Card

Fees: This credit card charges $450 in annual fees.

Rewards: Card members also earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points. They have to spend $4,000 in purchases on this credit card within the first 3 months of the credit card membership.

Pros and Cons of this card: Firstly, this credit card offers complimentary Diamond status in Hilton Honors membership program. Next, the card members earn one free night on the anniversary of the card. They can also earn an additional free night on spending $60,000 in a year.

Card members also get $250 in statement credits against purchases made in the Hilton Resorts and hotels. They also get $250 statement credits against incidental charges on one selected airline in a calendar year. This is a good reward to earn back any charges like excess baggage, gate charges, or others charged on this card.

Further, cardmembers also earn a $100 statement credit on booking rooms at hiltonhonorsaspirecard.com. They have to book a minimum of 2 nights. The bookings should be in participating Woldarf Astoria and Conrad hotels and resorts.

Card members earn 14x points on eligible purchases in the Hilton hotels and resorts portfolio. They also earn 7x points on eligible travels booked through AmexTravel and on dining in US restaurants. For the rest, of the eligible purchases, they earn 3x points.

Additional advantages

This credit card also offers some of the other American Express advantages, which include:

  • Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance
  • Premium Global Assist Hotline
  • Baggage Insurance Plan
  • Concierge
  • American Express Experiences
  • Return Protection
  • Send & Split
  • Fraud Protection
  • Year-End Summary
  • Pay It Plan It

Finally, this card also offers Priority Pass Select membership for Primary cardholders and up to two accompanying guests. This requires the member to enroll for the Priority Pass membership. Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card offers some of the best rewards in its category.

American Express Membership Rewards Program – Lap of Luxury

American Express Membership Rewards program is a loyalty program. This is a program by American Express to reward its credit card customers for their purchases. The program provides cardholders with an opportunity to earn points. These points are called Membership Rewards Points. These points are awarded for spending every dollar on the American Express credit card. Members can redeem these membership reward points for a wide range of rewards, including travel, merchandise, and statement credits.

American Express is one of the largest financial companies and global payment networks. It began as a freight forwarding company in 1850. In the late 19th century, American Express introduced financial products and travel services to their customers. They were one of the first companies to offer charge cards in 1958. 

Membership Rewards
American Express

Benefits of the American Express Membership Rewards

The American Express Membership Rewards program is one of the largest reward programs. Here are some of the benefits of the American Express Membership Rewards program:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jU848dmzjc
American Express Members Week

Flexibility

Firstly, it is very easy for Cardmembers to earn Membership Rewards points. There are no specific categories to remember or changing categories every month or quarter. American Express usually rewards 1 Membership Reward point for every dollar spent. Business credit cards may offer 2 Membership Reward points for each dollar. This easy and simple structure of earning points makes it easy and attractive to use. 

Amex Platinum

This program does not have specific bonus categories. They do offer occasional promotions and bonus point offers. As a cardmember, they need to keep an eye out for these offers. These offers can provide a great opportunity to earn extra Membership rewards points.

High-Value Rewards

Membership Reward programs offer some of the most valuable rewards in the credit card industry. Cardmembers can redeem their points for bigger rewards, such as premium flights or luxury hotels. They also have a dedicated Amextravel and concierge. 

Unlike many other travel reward programs, American Express has no blackout dates. Cardmembers can book travel whenever they want, without having to worry about availability.

Exceptional and High-Quality Customer Service

American Express has a reputation for providing excellent customer service. So cardholders can feel confident that they’ll be taken care of if they have any issues. Centurion Credit card from American Express offers a personal concierge. Members can use this personal concierge for booking travels, dining reservations in select restaurants, order flowers or gifts for a loved one.

Finally, American Express also has a Platinum Travel desk, especially for Platinum Card customers. 

Redeem Membership Rewards 

Book Travels through Amex Travel

Members can visit amextravel.com or call the American Express travel team. They can book their next flight, vacation package, or cruise. Cardmembers can also use Pay with Points to book prepaid cars or book prepaid hotels. Alternatively, they can pay a part or the entire travel with their Membership Rewards points. Finally, they can also enjoy an average discount of 10% when they use points on an eligible Insider Fare from over 40 airlines. 

When the cardmembers use points to book travel through the Membership Rewards point, the full dollar amount is charged to the credit card. In the next 48 hours, the points redeemed will appear as a credit in the card’s account automatically. 

Members also have access to exclusive American Express Travel programs. These programs bring extra value to the trip. They can explore lower fares on International First, Business, and Premium Economy seats. American Express also has an International Airline Program. This Program offers better rates using Platinum Credit Cards. Finally, card Members can also get great deals on seat upgrades on participating airlines.

Cardmembers also get exclusive offers on their Centurion, Platinum, or Gold American Express Credit Card. They also get additional rewards if they book in the “Fine Hotels + Resorts” and “The Hotel Collection”. They earn rewards like complimentary breakfast, late 4 pm checkouts, or statement credits. In order to qualify, these travels need to be booked on an eligible American Express Card. These offers are eligible only for customers based in the USA.

International Airlines Program

Cardmembers will get more Membership Rewards points when they book through the international airline program. This program is available on International First, Business, and Premium Economy Class tickets booked through American Express Travel. More than 20 participating world-class international airlines. Non-refundable American Express service fee of $39 (per ticket) applies to each ticket.  

They can earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on airfare when they pay with their Platinum Card. Alternatively, they get 35% Membership Rewards points back after they use points for all or part of an eligible flight booked with Amex Travel. These programs can be awarded up to 500,000 points back per calendar year. 

Pay With Points At Checkout

Cardmembers can use Membership Rewards points to pay at the checkout when purchasing online. Pay with Points can help card members cover all or part of the purchase. Cardmembers can Log in to their account directly online or on the Amex Mobile app to select the charges they want to cover with points.  

Gift Cards

Cardmembers can also convert their Membership Reward points to Gift Cards. They can choose from over 80 brands or an American Express Gift Card. 

Transfer Membership Rewards to partner programs

American Express also has partnerships with several airlines and hotels. Members can transfer their Membership Rewards points directly to the airmiles or to the rewards program of a hotel of their choice. Cardholders can transfer their Membership Rewards points to these programs for even more options and greater value. 

Again, for most of the partner loyalty programs,1,000 Membership rewards points will equal 1,000 miles, points, or credits. A few exceptions are Aeromexico (1000 MR = 1600 miles), Hilton Honors (1000 MR = 2000 HH points), and JetBlue (250 MR = 200 miles). Members have to pay a federal excise tax depending on the points redeemed. 

Centurion Lounge

Centurion Lounges

Centurion Lounges are American Express lounges at 40+ locations. These lounges are exclusive lounges for American Express members for Platinum and Centurion Credit Card customers. Eligible Card Members can escape into luxury before flying, enjoy food and drink from award-winning chefs and top mixologists in these Lounges. 

Limitations of the American Express Membership Rewards Program

American Express is not widely accepted outside of the United States as other card networks, so international travel can be more challenging. In comparison, Visa and Mastercard are quite widely accepted. Card members may find it difficult to use their American Express credit cards. 

American Express cards often have higher fees than other credit cards, including annual fees and foreign transaction fees. This can offset some of the benefits of the rewards program.

While American Express has partnerships with several airlines and hotels, transfer restrictions may apply, making it difficult to transfer rewards to these programs. Additionally, transfer ratios may not always be favorable, which can limit the value of the rewards. American Express does not allow the Frequent Flyer miles or hotel points to be transferred to Membership reward points.

Unlike some other reward programs that offer bonus points for purchases in specific categories, such as travel or dining, American Express Membership Rewards only offers points on all purchases, without any bonuses. 

World of Hyatt – Endless possibilities in the lap of luxury

World of Hyatt is the loyalty program of Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Hyatt is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 900+ hotels and resorts. They have a presence in more than 60 countries around the world. 

Hyatt’s portfolio includes brands such as Park Hyatt, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Hyatt Centric, Andaz, Hyatt Place, Hyatt House, and more. Each of these iconic brands offers a unique experience in the lap of luxury to the customers.

World of Hyatt Loyalty Program

Collection of Hyatt Properties

World of Hyatt members can enjoy in-hotel benefits and rewards for each eligible stay. Members can join the World of Hyatt program free of charge. To know other loyalty programs for your travel read our post on the best hotel loyalty programs. This loyalty program offers a range of benefits to eligible members which include:

Earn Points 

Members earn points for every eligible stay at Hyatt hotels and resorts, including Park Hyatt, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, and more. Points can be redeemed for free nights, upgrades, and other rewards. They earn 5 points on every $1 spent in the Hyatt Hotels. They also receive bonus points depending on their tier. They can earn these points at more than 1000 Hyatt locations worldwide.

Members can also earn points for dining and spa services at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts. They have partnered with several travel, dining, and lifestyle brands to offer additional benefits, including bonus points and discounts. Hyatt is part of Small Luxury Hotels of the world, offering benefits such as complimentary breakfasts, bonus points, early check-ins, late checkouts, and others.

Hyatt has introduced Hyatt FIND a marketplace to offer exclusive well-being experiences. Members can book exclusive experiences and events, including culinary experiences, cultural activities, and more. They can choose from over 200 experiences in 75+ destinations around the world. Members earn 10 bonus points on every dollar spent on the FIND experiences.   

Redeem Points 

Members can redeem their points for free nights at Hyatt hotels and resorts. They can also redeem the points at participating Small Luxury Hotels and MGM rewards destinations. Hyatt has partnerships with multiple airlines, members can redeem base points for air miles. Also, they have a partnership with Avis. Elite members can redeem their points for Avis rentals certificates.

Hyatt also keeps on sending marketing emails to registered members. These marketing emails have various offers including free nights, bonus points, upgrades, and other amenities. 

Elite Membership tiers 

Members can earn elite status by staying at Hyatt properties and earning additional benefits such as room upgrades, late check-out, and bonus points. World of Hyatt elite members can receive exclusive benefits that reward them across their travel journey.

As a member of “Small Luxury Hotels of the world” Hyatt hotel membership provides multiple free amenities to the members. These include complimentary continental breakfast for two members and free in-room internet. Early check-in at 12 pm and late check-out at 2 pm, subject to room availability for all members at Hyatt Hotels. Cardmembers also get an option to upgrade one category of room. 

To know more about the elite status of World of Hyatt members please read below: 

1. Member

This is the starting tier in the World of Hyatt program. Members earn 5 Base Points on every dollar spent. They can redeem these points for free nights, upgrades, unforgettable experiences, and more. Further, they can save up to 10% with the Member Rate at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts. 

Cardmembers can enjoy waived resort fees at participating locations. These resort fees are applied to Free Night Award on redeemed points. Cardmembers receive complimentary Sapphire status with MGM Rewards, the loyalty program of MGM Resorts International.

2. Discoverist

On completing 10 nights or earning 25,000 points or 3 events, members upgrade to the Discoverist status. World of Hyatt credit card members automatically gets the Discoverist status. Discoverists 

Discoverist members earn 5 bonus points on every dollar spent in the Hyatt hotels. They also receive 10% Bonus Points on all eligible purchases. This status also upgrades the MGM Rewards status of the member to Pearl. Discoverist enjoy premium complimentary internet wherever available.

Discoverist members also get a preferred room at check-in subject to the room availability. They also get access to a separate member-only counter at the time of check-out. Members also earn 1 World of Hyatt Bonus Point for every $1 spent on qualifying American Airlines flights. These bonus points are in addition to the AAdvantage miles.

3. Explorist

The next tier of the World of Hyatt membership is Explorist. Members need to spend 30 nights or earn 50,000 base points to qualify for this tier. Explorists receive all the benefits of the lower tiers. Additionally, they receive 20% bonus points on all eligible purchases. The status at the MGM Rewards also upgrades to Gold on reaching the Explorist tier.

Explorsit members also get Guaranteed availability of hotel rooms. The rooms need to be booked 72 hours in advance at participating properties.

4. Globalist

It is the highest tier in the World of Hyatt membership. Members need to spend 60 qualifying nights or 100,000 points in the Hyatt hotels. Globalist members enjoy all the benefits of the lower tiers and more. They receive 30% bonus points on all eligible purchases. 

Globalists can enjoy Club lounge with continental breakfast and evening hors d’oeuvres daily. Alternatively, they can enjoy a complimentary full breakfast daily for each registered guest (up to 2 adults and 2 children). This offer is applicable at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts without a Club lounge.

Loyalty members receive priority access to available rooms when checking in early at participating hotels. They also can do late checkouts till 4 pm subject to room availability.

5. Lifetime Globalist

Members who achieve lifetime Globalist elite status by reaching 1,000,000 base points across the program over the course of the membership. Lifetime Globalists have access to My Hyatt Concierge agent for reservations and personalized service. They can also elevate their stay by receiving 4 suite upgrades awards. They also receive 1 Category 1-7 Free Night Award annually.

Milestone Rewards

Milestone rewards are different from elite status tiers. They are available to everyone and are based on the number of nights spent at Hyatt hotels. These milestone rewards start accruing after 20 nights or reaching 35,000 base points. They increase in multiples of 10 up to a max of 100 nights. These rewards provide perks such as free nights, bonus points, room upgrades, etc. In order to, know the complete Milestone Rewards refer to the below table:

Milestone RewardsBonus Rewards
20 Nights or 35,000 bonus points2 Club Lounge Access Awards
30 Nights or 50,000 bonus points1 Category 1-4 Free Night Award and
2 Club Lounge Access Awards
40 Nights or 65,000 bonus points5,000 Bonus Points or
A $100 Hyatt Gift Card or
$150 FIND experience credit
50 Nights or 80,000 bonus points2 Suite Upgrade Awards
60 Nights or 100,000 bonus points1 Category 1-7 Free Night Award and
2 Suite Upgrade Awards and
Access to My Hyatt Concierge
70 Nights 10,000 Bonus Points or1 Suite Upgrade Award
80 Nights 10,000 Bonus Points or1 Suite Upgrade Award
90 Nights 10,000 Bonus Points or1 Suite Upgrade Award
100 Nights 10,000 Bonus Points or1 Suite Upgrade Award

Hyatt Leverage

Hyatt Leverage is a business solution program from Hyatt Hotels. This program offers exclusive rates of up to 15% off the standard rates at participating hotels. Customers can either book directly on hyatt.com or through Hyatt Worldwide Reservation Center. Businesses get access to an administrative portal to track traveler information, rooms, and trip expenses in one place. 

Hyatt Leverage program can help businesses save up to $350 in hotel room bookings. It offers an exclusive discount to the customers on even standard rooms at all participating Hyatt properties. As Hyatt Leverage is a global program, members can enjoy the benefits of this program in Hyatt properties around the world. Cardmembers can use the program for their business or leisure travels in Hyatt hotels.

In order to, qualify for this program in subsequent years, the businesses need to spend a minimum of 50 nights every year. This program is not stackable against any other discounts or deals.

World of Hyatt Credit Cards

Hyatt also issues co-branded Personal and Business credit cards with Chase Bank. Credit card members earn reward points and free nights using these cards. These are Visa signature cards accepted globally. 

World of Hyatt Credit Card

world of hyatt
World of Hyatt Visa Signature

Fees: Card members get this card for a $95 annual fee.

APR: 20.24 – 27.24% variable APR.

Rewards: Card members earn 30,000 Bonus Points on spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of a new account opening. 

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members also earn 2 bonus points on every $1 spent in the first 6 months up to a total spend of $15,000. They earn 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent at Hyatt hotels. They also earn 5 Points from Hyatt per eligible $1 spent for being a World of Hyatt member.

Card members earn 2 bonus points on $1 at restaurants, fitness clubs, gym memberships, taxis, local riding, and airline tickets. They also get one free night every year on the card anniversary. Additional free night every year on spending $15,000 in a calendar year.

Cardmembers get an upgraded Discoverist member status in the World of Hyatt. As part of this status, they enjoy late checkouts till 2 pm subject to availability. They can also enjoy complimentary premium in-room internet. Finally, they earn 10% Bonus Points when choosing to earn points on eligible spending at Hyatt hotels. They can also earn a faster status upgrade to Globalist status. They earn 5 night’s credits towards the next year’s status every year. Further, they can also earn 2 additional qualifying night credits on spending $5,000 on their card.

World of Hyatt Business Credit Card

world of hyatt
World of Hyatt Business Credit Card

Fees: Card members get this card for a $199 annual fee.

APR: 20.24 – 27.24% variable APR.

Rewards: Card members earn 60,000 bonus points on a new card opening. To qualify, they should spend $5,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members earn 4 bonus points on every $1 spent in the Hyatt hotels and resorts. They can also earn 5 bonus points for every $1 spent on being a Hyatt member. Effectively, for each $1 spent they can earn 9 points on Hyatt stays.

Further, they also earn 2 bonus points on every $1 spent on three eligible spend categories each quarter. They can further earn 2 bonus points on $1 at fitness clubs and gym memberships. Further, they earn 1 bonus point on the rest of the purchases. They also enjoy Premium in-room internet and also a 2 pm late checkout subject to availability. They also get one free night every year on the card anniversary. Additional free night every year on spending $15,000 in a calendar year.

Cardmembers can also earn $100 in statement credits each anniversary year. In order to, qualify for this offer, they need to spend $50 on Hyatt properties. They can earn up to $50 statement credits two times every year. If a card member spends more than $50,000 in a year, they can also earn 10% of the redeemable points back. There is a limit of a total of 200,00 points.

They can enjoy immediate Discoverist status with their card. They can also gift Discoverist status to up to 5 employees with no charges. Additionally, card members earn 5-tier qualifying night credits toward Elite status. They can earn Explorist or Globalist status by spending $10,000 in a year.

Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program – Gateway to travel offers

Marriott Bonvoy is the loyalty program from the hotel chain Mariott International Inc. Marriott is one of the biggest luxurious hotel chains with over 30 brands and more than 8,000 properties across the world in 139 countries and regions.

Today, Marriott Bonvoy is considered one of the most comprehensive and rewarding loyalty programs in the hospitality industry. This program offers a wide range of benefits to members, from room upgrades to exclusive rates and free nights. Whether one is a frequent traveler or just starting out, Marriott Bonvoy has something to offer. To know more about other top hotel programs and credit cards see our post.

Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Membership Tiers

Marriott Bonvoy rewards offer multiple membership tiers. These tiers offer additional benefits and are upgrades to make travel more enjoyable. Marriott Bonvoy members can move up the tiers by staying more at Marriott properties and earning more points. Higher tier levels offer better access to even more exclusive benefits and rewards. To know more about the elite membership tiers please read below:

Silver Elite tier

Membership tiers start at the base silver elite tier. This is the entry-level tier. The silver tier offers benefits such as 10% bonus points on each stay, priority late checkout, and exclusive member rates. Members receive 10% discounts on all these eligible activities. For instance, dining, spa, and more. Further, for all the room bookings made on the website or mobile app, members can enjoy complimentary in-room internet.

Gold Elite tier

Members reach the Gold Elite tier by staying for 25 nights or earning 50,000 points per year. These elite members receive additional benefits such as room upgrades, welcome gifts, and enhanced mobile check-in. They also earn 25% more points on the room rent and on other incidentals such as dining, spa, or others facilities. Gold tier members also get 250 – 500 welcome points.

Marriott also offers to upgrade the room to a higher category on arrival for Gold Tier members. This offer is subject to the room availability at the time of check-in. Further, these members can enjoy late check-outs as late as 2 pm subject to room availability. 

Platinum Elite tier

The next tier is Platinum Elite in the Marriott Bonvoy rewards. To qualify for this tier members need to spend 50 nights or earn 75,000 points per year. Platinum Elite members receive all the benefits of the lower tiers. Also, they get premium room upgrades (including suites), lounge access, and a dedicated reservation line. Platinum elite members get full access to lounges and complimentary breakfasts.

Platinum tier members also earn 50% more points on every eligible hotel purchase. As a welcome gift members can choose free points, complimentary breakfast, and other amenities. Members also get late checkout till 4 pm, if available. Platinum elite tier members get an annual gift of choice. For instance, five suite nite awards, 40% off a mattress, gift silver elite status to a family member, a $100 charity donation, and five elite night credits.

Members can retain their Platinum elite status for a lifetime by spending 600 nights and 10 years of Platinum or higher status.

Titanium Elite tier

Titanium Elite is one of the high membership tiers in the Marriott Bonvoy program. To reach this tier, a member needs to stay 75 nights or earn 100,000 points per year. Titanium Elite members receive all the benefits of the lower tiers. Additionally, they get additional room upgrades, a 48-hour guarantee for room availability, and a personalized concierge service.

Members also earn 75% more points on every eligible hotel purchase, including room rate and other incidentals. They also get a dedicated concierge 24/7 for all hotel bookings. 

Ambassador Elite tier

Finally, Ambassador is the top tier in the Marriott Bonvoy membership. This tier requires members to spend 100 nights and spend $23,000 each year. Ambassador Elite members receive all the benefits of the lower tiers. Additionally, they receive a dedicated Ambassador to assist with their travel needs, a guaranteed room type, and an annual choice benefit.

Members get 75% more points for each eligible purchase at Marriott. Ambassador elite members also get “Yours 24”, they get flexibility for their stay. If they check in at 9 am they can check out the next day at 9 pm.

Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program benefits

Earn Points

Marriott Bonvoy members earn points for more than the room. Members also earn on all eligible hotel purchases, including dining, beverages, spa services, golf services, and more. Marriott Bonvoy members can earn 10 points for every $1 USD spent at participating Marriott Golf Resorts or spas.

  1. Members can earn 10 Points Per $1 USD spent on all qualifying charges. The participating brands include the top 25 brands of Marriott. The properties are in the Luxury and Premium categories.
  2. They can earn 5 Points Per $1 USD Spent on all qualifying charges at the 4 brands of the Marriott.
  3. Further, they can earn 2.5 Points Per $1 USD Spent on the Marriott Apartments. They also earn one elite night credit for every three nights stayed.

Spending on Marriott Bonvoy credit cards

Marriott Bonvoy has partnerships with several credit card issuers, including American Express and Chase. Card members can earn Marriott Bonvoy points as well as bonus points for spending on these credit cards. To know more about the benefits of credit cards please refer below section.

Members can also transfer Membership Rewards points from American Express to their Marriott points. Similarly, they can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards to their Marriott points. They can use these Marriott Bonvoy points to book hotel stays, upgrade existing stays, and much more.

Partner benefits

Marriott Bonvoy has partnerships with various brands and companies, including airlines, rental car agencies, and cruise lines. Members can earn points and receive exclusive benefits through these partnerships.

For example, Marriott Bonvoy members can book cruises from the Marriott website and use Cruise with points. They can convert their existing Marriott Bonvoy points to Cruise trips. Marriott Bonvoy members can earn bonus points by enrolling in Uber. They can join their Marriott Bonvoy account with Uber. They will start earning points on every Uber and UberEats order.

Redeem Marriot Bonvoy Points

Marriott Bonvoy members can use their points to redeem for free nights, room upgrades, and more offers. They can redeem the points at more than 7000+ Marriott hotels and resorts worldwide. Members can use Instant Redemption during their stays at participating hotels. Further, they can redeem points for food and beverages, spa experiences, and other amenities.

Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards

Marriott has partnerships with American Express and Chase for co-branded credit cards. These credit cards offer rewards in form of free nights, room upgrades, and other amenities to the card members. 

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card from Chase

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless

Fees: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless credit card has an annual fee of $95.

APR: 20.24% to 27.24% variable APR.

Rewards: This card offers 3 Free nights (in form of 150,000 points) after members spend $3,000 on eligible purchases. To qualify the members to need to make the purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.

Pros and Cons of this card: First, this Boundless Credit Card offers 6 Marriott Bonvoy points for every $1 spent in the hotels. Further, card members also earn 3 Marriott Bonvoy points on every $1 spent up to $6,000 on gas stations, groceries, and at gas stations per year. They earn 2 Marriot Bonvoy points on every other purchase using this credit card. 

Marriott Bonvoy members’ points stack up on using this credit card. They can earn up to 17x points by using this credit card for bookings at Marriott Hotels. Members earn 6 points for every $1 spent, they earn 10x points on being a loyalty member and 1x points for silver elite status. This adds up to 17x points for spend on Marriott brand hotels and resorts.

Card members also earn 1 Free night (or 35,000 Mariott Bonvoy points) on their card anniversary in Marriott Bonvoy properties. They also get a free silver elite status each account anniversary year. As a cardmember, they can receive 15 Elite Night Credits towards the next level of Marriott Bonvoy Elite status.

Marriott Bonvoy Bond Chase Credit Card

Marriott Bonvoy Bold

Fees: This card has an annual fee of $0.

APR:  20.24% to 27.24% variable APR.

Rewards: Card members earn 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy Bonus Points after using the new card. Card members have to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership.

Pros and Cons of this card: Firstly, the members earn 3 Marriott Bonvoy points for all the spending in participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels. They also earn 2 Marriott Bonvoy points on travel purchases. Finally, they earn 1 Marriott Bonvoy points on every other purchase using this credit card.  Cardmembers receive 15 Elite Night Credits towards the next level of Marriott Bonvoy Elite status.

Bold and Boundless card also offers free baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, and trip delay reimbursement. These credit card also provides Purchase Protection. This covers all new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $500, up to a max of $50,000 in a year. Card members also get complimentary Visa Signature Concierge Service 24 hours a day. They can use this service to find tickets to the top sports and entertainment events, make dinner reservations, and even get help sending the perfect gift. 

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Card

marriott bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy Bevy

Fees: Annual charges of $250

APR: 20.24 – 29.24% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points. In order to qualify they have to make $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months.

Pros and Cons of this Card: Card Members can earn a maximum of 1,000 bonus points per eligible stay at participating Marriott Bonvoy properties. Cardmembers can earn 6 Marriott Bonvoy points on each dollar spent on eligible purchases on Marriott Bonvoy properties. They can earn 4 Marriott Bonvoy points for each $1 of eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide and U.S. Supermarkets. There is a combined limit of $15,000 on all restaurant and Supermarket purchases. Further, they can earn 2 Marriott Bonvoy points on every dollar spent on the rest of the purchases. 

This credit card offers complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status. They can earn 25% more points on every eligible hotel purchase, including room rate and other incidentals. Cardmembers receive 1 free night or 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points on each anniversary year. To qualify they have to meet the spending limit of $15,000 in a calendar year on eligible purchases.  

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card

Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant

Fees: This card has an annual fee of $650.

APR: 20.24% to 29.24% variable APR.

Rewards: Card members earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy Bonus Points after using the new card. Card members have to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months.

Pros and Cons of this card: Firstly, this Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express credit card is an expensive card. But, this card offers some of the best amenities and rewards. This is a perfect co-branded hotel card with a ton of rewards. Card members get $300 in Brillant Dining Credit. They receive $25 in statement credit for spend made on the credit card at restaurants worldwide.  

This card offers a complimentary Platinum Elite Marriott Bonvoy status. Next, the card members also get complimentary access to American Express Experiences. This provides card members access to exclusive events in sports, music, and theatres.

Furthermore, the members earn 6x points for all the spending in participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels. Card members also earn 3x points on restaurants and airline tickets. They earn 2x points on every other purchase using this credit card. 

Card members earn 1 Free night on their card anniversary in Marriott Bonvoy properties. They also get $100 in property credit on bookings in Marriott hotels for 2+ nights. They can earn $100 in statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. This credit card also provides access to Priority Pass membership. Priority Pass provides access to 1200 lounges at airports worldwide.

Evidently, this card offers one of the best deals in comparison to the annual membership fees that it levies.

Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card Program for International Users

Apart from these credit cards Marriott offers credit cards for International customers. They have a partnership with American Express to offer credit cards for several other countries. They offer co-branded credit cards in the UK, Canada, China, UAE, Mexico, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia.

CVS ExtraCare Rewards Program for Pharmacy & Healthcare

CVS ExtraCare Rewards is a customer loyalty program from CVS Pharmacy. CVS is the largest Pharmacy operator in the USA. They have a large network of retail shops and pharmacy stores all across the USA. They also have an online presence through their website cvs.com. CVS also has a mobile app for purchase of medicines and services from the mobile devices.

This program offers rewards to customers who use CVS Pharmacy, including prescription drug purchases, in-store shopping, and online purchases. They also offer customized discounts to loyalty program members. 

CVS ExtraCare Rewards is an excellent customer loyalty program to join if you frequent the pharmacy. This program offers free cash back in the form of ExtraBucks, a rewards program redeemable in CVS. If you fill your prescription in CVS, members should opt-in for this program to earn rewards.

CVS ExtraCare Rewards

cvs extracare rewards
CVS

Card members can enroll in the CVS ExtraCare Pharmacy Rewards program for free. After they enroll, members will earn credits by purchasing eligible prescriptions or engaging in an eligible activity. Eligible activities are described below. These activities need to be at a CVS Pharmacy location in the United States. 

Members receive $5 Pharmacy & Health ExtraBucks Rewards when they accumulate 10 credits. Ways to earn credits towards ExtraBucks Rewards include, but are not limited to:

  1. Firstly, members receive one credit for purchasing a 30-day supply of an eligible prescription
  2. They can earn three credits on filling a 90-day supply of an eligible prescription
  3. Members receive three credits for a flu shot, COVID-19 vaccination, or other vaccination from a CVS-certified immunizer
  4. They also receive one credit (subject to a maximum of five credits) for each family member or pet enrolled in the ExtraCare card.
  5. Finally, the card members earn three credits on enrolling in prescription management services on CVS.com.

Members can consolidate the ExtraCare account for the members of the same family. They can consolidate the credits together in one ExtraCare card.

Advantages of CVS ExtraCare Pharmacy Rewards

Members can earn up to $50 ExtraBucks for purchasing medicines, getting flu shots, or filling prescriptions. They receive access to members-only discounts from CVS. These special offers and discounts run periodically. These offers run through multiple channels. For example, in the form of emails, flyers, in-store discounts, and the CVS Pharmacy app. 

In addition, ExtraCare members receive 2% cash back in ExtraBucks Rewards on qualifying purchases. This 2% cash back is calculated on the purchase price reducing coupons, discounts, and third‐party fees (if applicable). Any taxes are also removed from the rewards calculations.

Card members can redeem these ExtraBucks cashback for purchases in-store and online. They also receive discounts on CVS Pharmacy brands and services. Additionally, this reward program offers a health and wellness component. They send a free email newsletter to the members offering health advice and access to a health library.

CarePass Membership 

CVS also offers a paid membership program CarePass. ExtraCare members can enroll in CarePass. CarePass offers free same‐day delivery of prescriptions from local pharmacies. It also offers a 20% discount on CVS Health brand products every day and more great benefits. CarePass memberships are available for $5 per month or for $48 per year. Currently, CarePass offers a $10 promotional offer per month. On successful enrollment, this membership is available free for one month.

Image Courtesy CVS.com

Birthday benefits for CVS Reward members

CVS loyalty members receive a $3 ExtraBucks Reward on their birthday. In order to qualify for this offer, the ExtraCare account should be active. Card members need to update their birthdays in the details of the card. This benefit is available only once per calendar year per card. Though $3 seems like a small amount, anything free is welcome. 

By using the CVS ExtraCare program, members can save money. They also get access to helpful health resources and enjoy a more convenient shopping experience.

Limitations of the CVS ExtraCare Rewards program

CVS ExtraCard rewards program though is a great program, but it has its limitation. The most important limitation of this rewards program is the validity period of the rewards. The cash back rewards or the ExtraBucks rewards are valid only for a period of 90 days. ExtraBucks rewards expire after a quarter of earning them.

Also, the ExtraBucks Rewards cannot be used for purchases at affiliated businesses. Affiliated businesses include MinuteClinic, CVS at Target, Navarro, Schnucks, and CVS Optical. 

There is a total limit of $50 ExtraBucks rewards in a calendar year for each individual on a household ExtraCare account.

Further, the ExtraBucks Rewards can only be used in CVS, Unlike traditional rewards credit cards or the Pharmacy co-branded credit card, the ExtraBucks are limited to CVS pharmacies. Rewards and benefits available via the ExtraCare Program have no cash value. These ExtraBuck Rewards are not available for cash, gift certificates, or gift cards,