Do Loyalty Points Expire? How to Keep Them Active

Loyalty points from credit cards, airlines, hotels, and retail programs are a common form of reward. These points offer various benefits, from travel to merchandise or statement credits. A frequent question is whether these accumulated points expire, which directly affects their value and usability. Understanding point expiration is important for maximizing their benefit.

How Loyalty Points Expire

Loyalty points primarily expire through two main mechanisms: inactivity-based policies and time-based policies. Program changes or termination can also affect point validity, though this is less common.

Inactivity-based expiration occurs when points expire due to no qualifying activity within a specified timeframe, often 12 to 24 months. If a member does not earn, redeem, or transfer points within that period, their balance may be forfeited. Performing a small activity, such as earning or redeeming a minimal amount of points, generally resets this expiration clock.

Some loyalty points operate under a time-based expiration, meaning they expire after a fixed period from the date they were earned, regardless of account activity. For instance, some airline miles might expire 36 months after being earned, with no action able to extend their validity. This policy is less common for major programs but does exist.

Less frequently, points can be affected by significant program changes or if the loyalty program itself is discontinued. While companies generally provide notice, such events can lead to altered point values or expiration terms.

Common Expiration Policies by Program Type

Expiration policies vary considerably across different types of loyalty programs. It is always advisable to review the specific terms and conditions of each program.

Many general credit card rewards, especially those from major issuers not co-branded with a specific airline or hotel, typically do not expire as long as the account remains open and in good standing. If an account is closed or falls into poor standing, the points may be forfeited.

Airline miles commonly follow an inactivity-based expiration model, with typical periods ranging from 12 to 24 months. For example, American Airlines AAdvantage miles may expire after 24 months of inactivity. Activities like flying, using a co-branded credit card for purchases, or shopping through the airline’s online portal can often reset the expiration clock.

Hotel loyalty points are also frequently subject to inactivity-based expiration, often within 18 to 24 months. For instance, Hilton Honors points may expire after 24 months of no qualifying activity. Earning points from a hotel stay, redeeming a small number of points, or using a co-branded hotel credit card are common ways to extend their validity.

Retail and store loyalty programs exhibit the widest range of expiration policies. Some retail programs may have no expiration, while others impose strict time limits, such as points expiring annually on a specific date or after a short period of inactivity.

Strategies to Keep Your Points Active

Preventing loyalty points from expiring involves proactive engagement with your programs and understanding the specific rules. Various actions can help extend the life of your accumulated rewards.

A straightforward strategy is to engage in qualifying activity within the program’s specified timeframe. This can include making a small purchase using a co-branded credit card, as each transaction often counts as activity and resets the expiration date. Earning or redeeming even a minimal amount of points, such as through a small online purchase, can also extend the validity of your balance.

Regularly reviewing the terms and conditions of each loyalty program is important, as expiration policies can change. Setting calendar reminders or utilizing third-party tracking tools can help monitor expiration dates. This proactive approach ensures you are aware of impending expirations and can take timely action.

Transferring points, if allowed by the program, can sometimes reset an expiration clock, particularly when moving points to a partner program. Some programs also permit consolidating points within a family account. Participating in surveys or small promotions that award a few points can also be a simple way to generate activity.

After Points Expire

Once loyalty points have expired, the options for recovery are generally limited. In most cases, expired points are permanently lost and cannot be reinstated.

The consequence of allowing points to expire is typically the forfeiture of their value. This means the accumulated rewards are no longer available for redemption. This outcome underscores the importance of diligent management of loyalty accounts.

There are very few exceptions to the general rule of permanent loss. Some programs might offer a grace period or limited recourse for elite status members, or in rare circumstances, allow an appeal to customer service. However, success in reinstating expired points through these avenues is not guaranteed and often comes with conditions, such such as a fee. Proactive management of points, rather than relying on post-expiration recovery options, remains the most effective way to preserve their value.