Keep Your Points and Miles From Expiring: Essential Tips for Travelers

Why You Should Protect Your Points and Miles

Your points and miles are much more than just numbers; they represent the hard work you put into traveling or spending strategically. Losing these earned rewards is not just disappointing, but it can also significantly impact your future travel plans. By knowing how to keep your points active, you ensure that your dreams of traveling for less—or even for free—remain within reach.

Utilizing Cobranded Credit Cards

One of the most efficient ways to keep your loyalty accounts active is by using a cobranded credit card. Many programs automatically extend the life of your points or miles as long as you hold onto such a card. For instance, IHG One Rewards points expire after 12 months without activity, but if you are a cardholder of the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card, your status as a Platinum Elite member prevents expiration altogether. However, it’s crucial to read the terms of each card because not all cobranded cards offer this protection.

Earning Points Through Dining Programs

Did you know that dining out can also help keep your rewards alive? Major airlines and hotel chains often have dining programs where you can link a credit card to earn points simply by eating out. Just remember that the card must be charged directly by the restaurant, as transactions through delivery services usually don’t qualify. By dining at participating locations, you can earn rewards and reset your expiration clock without requiring a full-fledged travel plan.

Leveraging Online Shopping Portals

Shopping through airline or hotel loyalty programs’ online shopping portals can also be a simple and effective way to keep your rewards active. Many major loyalty programs have partnerships with various retailers. As long as you initiate your shopping session through the portal, you’ll earn rewards on eligible purchases. This hardly feels like an effort; it simply requires you to change the way you shop online!

Small Transfers to Keep Accounts Active

If you have a flexible rewards card, transferring a tiny amount of points to another loyalty program can buy you more time before your account goes inactive. Often, even just a minimal transfer can reset the expiration clock. Programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards offer flexibility to keep your earned balances thriving.

Utilizing Charity Donations as a Quick Fix

When time is of the essence, consider donating your points or miles to charity. Many programs allow for a charitable donation, and this transaction typically resets the expiration of your remaining balance immediately. It’s a win-win—you help a good cause and keep your points from vanishing!

Taking a Flight or Completing a Stay

There’s no better way to actively engage with your travel rewards than by actually traveling. Booking a flight or staying in a hotel will generally reset your expiration clock for your loyalty accounts. Even if you’re not actively planning a trip, consider scheduling a short getaway with your accumulated miles or points to maintain your balance.

Dealing with Expired Points

What happens if you miss the deadline and your points have expired? It’s often possible to reinstate them for a fee, though policies vary by program. If you find yourself in this position, it's worth contacting customer service to inquire about your options. Many programs have the discretion to restore recently expired points, especially for loyal customers.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Rewards

Your hard-earned points and miles are that; hard-earned. Take proactive measures to ensure they remain intact through simple actions like dining, shopping portals, or transferring points. Ensuring your points don’t expire means your travel dreams can continue to flourish. Act now and keep all that travel value intact!