Don't Let Your Points Silently Disappear
Billions of loyalty points expire unused every year. Most of the time, it's not because people don't want to use them — it's because they didn't know their balance was at risk. Understanding expiration policies and a few simple workarounds can protect every point you've earned.
How Loyalty Program Expiration Works
Most programs use one of two expiration models:
- Activity-based expiration: Points remain valid as long as you have qualifying account activity (earning or redeeming) within a set window, typically 12–24 months. One small transaction resets the clock.
- Fixed expiration: Less common, but some programs set points to expire after a fixed period regardless of activity.
The key insight with activity-based programs is that any qualifying activity — even earning a single mile from a partner purchase — resets the expiration clock for your entire balance.
Expiration Policies of Major Programs
| Program | Expiration Policy |
|---|---|
| Chase Ultimate Rewards | Points don't expire while the card account is open |
| Amex Membership Rewards | Points don't expire while the card account is open |
| United MileagePlus | No expiration (policy updated; activity required previously) |
| Delta SkyMiles | Miles never expire |
| American Airlines AAdvantage | 18 months of inactivity triggers expiration |
| Marriott Bonvoy | 24 months of inactivity triggers expiration |
| Hilton Honors | 12 months of inactivity triggers expiration |
| World of Hyatt | 24 months of inactivity triggers expiration |
Note: Policies change. Always verify directly with the program's official terms.
Simple Strategies to Keep Points Alive
1. Set Up Calendar Reminders
For each program where your balance is at risk, set an annual (or semi-annual) reminder to check your last activity date. A quick review every 6 months can prevent surprises.
2. Make a Small Partner Purchase
For activity-based programs, earning even a handful of miles through a shopping portal, dining program, or survey resets the expiration clock. Most programs have easy no-cost ways to trigger activity.
3. Use the Program's Co-Branded Card
Holding and occasionally using a co-branded credit card for the program typically counts as account activity, keeping your points balance fresh automatically.
4. Transfer or Combine Points
If a balance is too small to use meaningfully on its own, transferring points to a partner (if allowed) or combining with a family member's account can both preserve and grow your value.
5. Redeem Anything, Even If Small
Redeeming points for a magazine subscription, a small purchase, or a gift card counts as activity in most programs. It's not ideal value, but it's far better than losing thousands of points.
What to Do If Your Points Already Expired
Don't panic — some programs will reinstate expired points for a fee or after a qualifying activity. Steps to take:
- Contact the program's customer service promptly — the sooner the better.
- Ask politely about reinstatement options; many representatives have discretion for long-standing members.
- Be prepared to pay a reinstatement fee, which is still worth it for large balances.
The Best Prevention Is Awareness
Keep a simple spreadsheet or use a loyalty tracking app to monitor your balances and last activity dates across all programs. It takes minutes to set up and could save you thousands of points. The goal isn't to use your points before they expire — it's to always have the time and flexibility to use them on your terms.