Should you invest in Starpoints now?

12

Starwood is once again offering 35% off on the purchase of SPG Starpoints through July 20th. This means that it’s possible to buy Starpoints for 2.275 cents each.  And, since Starpoints convert to Marriott Rewards points 1 to 3, that’s equivalent to buying Marriott Rewards points for 0.75 cents each.  Considering that Marriott sells points for 1.25 cents each, this is a relative bargain.

But…

The fact that Starpoints / Marriott Rewards points are available for purchase at a very low relative price does not mean that it makes sense to buy them.  Whether or not buying points makes sense depends entirely upon how you plan to use them.

Let’s look at various uses for Starpoints & Marriott Rewards points to see whether this is really a good deal…

Domestic Round Trip for $455

a group of people sitting in an airplane

Many airline programs charge 25,000 miles for a domestic round-trip economy award.  Given that Starpoints transfer to airline miles at a rate of 20K Starpoints to 25K miles, we can estimate the cost to buy a round trip ticket as follows:

  • Buy 20K Starpoints for $455
  • Convert 20K Starpoints to 25K miles
  • Result: Round trip economy ticket for $455

Verdict: Bad Deal

Why: Round trip domestic economy awards are usually available for 25K miles only when the flight is far from full.  When that’s true, it is usually possible to get a good cash price for the same flights.  Last minute flights can be an exception.

Top Tier SPG or Ritz hotel for $455

a restaurant on a hill with a pool and trees
Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Santorini

In August, Starpoints will automatically be converted 1 to 3 to rewards points.  And, from August to early 2019, the newly combined Marriott / SPG / Ritz award chart will top out at 60,000 points per night.  This means that during that window it will be possible to book the most expensive SPG and Ritz properties for the equivalent of 20,000 Starpoints per night.  Via this promotion, each free night will cost you $455.  Or, if you take advantage of 5th night free awards, you can average $364 per night for a 5 night stay.

  • Buy 20K Starpoints for $455
  • In August, 20K Starpoints automatically convert to 60K rewards points
  • Between August and early 2019, book top tier hotels for 60K rewards points per night
  • If you have enough points, take advantage of 5th night free awards

Verdict: Bad Deal*

Why: Many top tier properties are routinely available for under $500 per night, especially if you watch for sales.  If you buy Starpoints now with the hope of booking a top tier property that is usually much more than $500, this can offer very good savings, but it still locks you into having to finalize your travel plans before early 2019.

* This would be a good deal if you have specific plans to stay at a hotel that costs much more than $455 per night and if standard rooms are available during your travel dates.

Mid Tier Hotel for $273 per night

a room with a bed and a table and a chair
Residence Inn New York Central Park

When Marriott unveiled future award pricing for New York City and a few other markets, we were surprised to see that a number of New York City hotels will be available for only 35,000 rewards points per night.  That’s equivalent to 11,667 Starpoints per night.  With the current promotion, you could buy 12,000 Starpoints for $273 and have a few points left over.

  • Buy 12K Starpoints for $273
  • In August, 12K Starpoints automatically convert to 36K rewards points
  • When programs merge in August, book mid tier hotels for 35K rewards points per night
  • If you have enough points, take advantage of 5th night free awards

Verdict: Bad Deal*

Why: Many mid tier properties are routinely available for under $300 per night, especially if you watch for sales.  If you buy Starpoints now with the hope of booking a mid tier property that is usually much more than $300, this can offer very good savings, but only if you don’t come across a better sale before your stay.

* This would be a good deal if you have specific plans to stay at a hotel that costs much more than $273 per night and if standard rooms are available during your travel dates.

Bottom Tier Hotel, 5 Nights for $227.50 ($45.50 per night)

a large building with a parking lot
TownePlace Suites Jacksonville NC. Currently a category 1 Marriott hotel

Currently, category 1 and 2 SPG hotels do not qualify for 5th Night Free awards.  But, when the Marriott and SPG programs merge in August, all hotels will be eligible for 5th Night Free awards.  And the lowest category hotels will be available for 7,500 points per night:

a chart with numbers and text

If you book 5 nights under the new award chart, you’ll pay 7,500 x 4 = 30,000 rewards points (10,000 Starpoints) for 5 nights.

  • Buy 10K Starpoints for $227.50
  • 10K Starpoints convert to 30K rewards points
  • Book 5 nights at a category 1 hotel for 30K points
    • Before August, this is only possible at category 1 Marriott hotels.
    • When the programs merge in August, this will be possible at category 1 SPG hotels as well
  • Average cost per night: $45.50

Verdict: Good Deal

Why: If you have a real need or desire to stay in a category 1 hotel for 5 nights, chances are good that the paid rate alternative will be quite a bit higher than $45.50 per night after taxes and fees.  Alternatively, for those chasing elite status, this is a fairly low cost way to earn 5 elite nights.

One-Way International First Class for $1,365

a woman serving a meal to another woman
Cathay Pacific first class

SPG offers point transfers to airline miles at a rate of 20K Starpoints to 25K miles.  If you buy enough Starpoints, you could use the resulting miles to buy first class flights:

  • Buy 60K Starpoints for $682.50 x 2 = $1,365 (See: How to buy more than 30K SPG points)
  • Convert 60K Starpoints to 75K airline miles
  • Many international first class awards are available for 75K miles one-way or less (see this post for examples)
  • Result: One-Way International First Class for $1,365 plus taxes & fees.

Verdict: Good Deal*

Why: A good international First Class flight often costs $8,000 or more round-trip.  Using points in this way would likely represent significant savings, even after accounting for fuel surcharges imposed by many carriers.  Caveat: Finding available first class awards when and where you want them can be tough.

* Even though this is a good deal, investing in travel packages can be a better deal.  See the section two below on round trip flights plus 7 night stays for details.

One-Way International Business Class for $1,365 (with points left over)

a seat and a monitor in an airplane
ANA Business Class
  • Buy 60K Starpoints for $682.50 x 2 = $1,365 (See: How to buy more than 30K SPG points)
  • Convert 60K Starpoints to 75K airline miles
  • Many international business class awards are available for 60K miles one-way or less (see this post for examples)
  • Result: One-Way International Business Class for $1,365 plus taxes & fees, with points left over for other uses

Verdict: Bad Deal

Why: It is often possible to find round-trip international business class fares for less than $3,000 (i.e. less than $1,500 each way).

Round Trip International Biz or 1st Class, plus 7 Night Hotel Stay for $2,047.50

a seat in a plane
Qantas Business Class

Marriott Travel Packages offer an intriguing alternative to using Starpoints directly:

  • Buy 90K Starpoints for $682.50 x 3 = $2,047.50 (See: How to buy more than 30K SPG points)
  • Convert 90K Starpoints to 270K Marriott Rewards points
  • Use 270K Marriott Rewards points to book a 7 night category 1-5 travel package resulting in 120K airline miles of various sorts, or 132K United miles plus a 7 night stay certificate.
  • Many round-trip international business class awards, and some round-trip international first class awards, are available for 120K miles or less. See this post for examples.
  • Result: Round-Trip premium international flight plus 7 night hotel stay for $2,047.50 plus taxes and fees.

Verdict: Great Deal

Why: While it’s possible to find similarly priced premium flights, this option gives you the option of flying some of the most luxurious premium cabins in the world.  For example, with Virgin Atlantic miles you could book ANA first class from the US to Tokyo for 110K or 120K miles.  Or, use Alaska miles to book Qantas or Fiji business class to Australia for 110K miles or Cathay Pacific for 120K miles.  Or, use Alaska miles to fly business class to Asia for 100K round-trip on Cathay Pacific or Hainan, or 120K round-trip on JAL.  United charges 140K round-trip (8K more than the miles you would get from the package) for partner business class to Europe, and less for their own flights.  And, significantly, United does not pass along fuel surcharges.  Caveat: Finding available business or first class awards when and where you want them can be tough.

If you need the miles, this deal is good even if you don’t have use for the 7 night stay certificate.  If you can find good use for the 7 night stay, then obviously the deal becomes way better.  For more about Marriott travel packages, see these posts:

Caveats to all of the above

#1: Whether or not something is a good or bad deal depends on your circumstances

I tried my best to indicate above whether or not I think each option is a good or bad deal, but your circumstances are undoubtedly different from those that I imagined.  Please use your own judgment to decide.

#2: Investing in points or miles is never a good idea without a plan for how to use them

Some of the flight options I described above sound amazing and are undoubtedly a great deal if you actually take advantage of them.  In reality, though, maybe you won’t.  If you’re thinking that you might try one of these award flights someday, but you don’t know when someday might be, I’d recommend against buying the points.  Chances are good that the miles will devalue before you go, or you might have other better options when the time comes.

#3 There are cheaper ways to get the needed points and miles

Buying points and miles at a discount is probably best for those who live outside of the US or for those who are unable to qualify for good credit card signup offers in the US.  For those in the US with good credit, a few credit card welcome bonuses could easily get you all of the points you need.

For example, here are the currently available Marriott point offers (click on any card link to go to a detailed Frequent Miler page about that card):

Card Offer
Limited Time Offer - 185K Points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
185k points after $6K spend within the first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
(Offer Expires 5/14/2025)
$650 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Limited Time Offer - 155K Points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
155K points after $5K spend in the first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
(Offer Expires 5/14/2025)
$250 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
3 x 50K Free Night Certificates ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer
Earn three 50K free night certicates after spending $3,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months
$95 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Recent better offer: 5 x 50K free night certificates after $5K in spend (expired 1/9/24)
3 x 50K Free Night Certificates ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
3 Free Night Awards after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Each Free Night Award has a redemption level up to 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy(R) points, for a total potential value of up to 150,000 points, Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$125 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: 5x50K free night certificates after $8K in spend (expired 10/16/24)
85K Points ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer
85K points after $4K spend in 3 months
$250 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
30K points ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer
30K points after spending $1K in the first 3 months. Terms apply.
No Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Recent better offer: 60K points + Free Night Certificate after $2k spend (ended 3/7/25)

And here are the top transferable points offers (press Next for more). Click on any card link to go to a detailed Frequent Miler page about that card:

Card Offer
150K Miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
Earn a one-time bonus of 150K miles after $30K spend in the first 3 months. (Rates & Fees)
$395 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Expired 3/31/23: 250K Miles after $50K in spend.
150K points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
150K points after $20K spend in the first 3 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$695 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: 250K after $20K spend expired 2/10/25
100K points + 10x Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
100K points after $8K spend in 6 months + 10x points at restaurants worldwide on up to $25K spend in 6 months. Terms apply.
$695 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 175K points after $8K spend in 6 months.
90K points ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer
90K points after $6K in purchases in the first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$325 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 100K after $6K in the first 6 months + 20% back at restaurants for the first 12 months up to $250 back [Expired 11/10/24 - referrals only]
75K Miles + $250 travel credit ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer
75k miles after $4k spend within first 3 months + $250 Capital One Travel credit
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
90K points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
90K after $8K spend in 3 months
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 120K after $8K spend (expired 9/4/24)
75K points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
75K after $6K spend in 3 months
No Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: You may be able to get an offer of 120,000 points after $6,000 in purchases via a Business Relationship Manager.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Up to 75K points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
35K after $3K spend in 3 months and an additional 40K points after $6K spend in 6 months.
No Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: If you have a household member with an Ink card, you may prefer the referral offer whereby the referrer can earn 20,000 points in addition to whatever the offer is.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 90K after $6K spend in 6 monthd (expired 1/17/24
100K points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
100K points after $15K spend in 3 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$375 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: 200K after $15K spend expired 2/10/25
75K Miles ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer
75k miles after $4k spend within first 3 months.
$395 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: Expired 3/14/22: 100K after $10K spend in 6 months + $200 credit for vacation rental spend in first year
80K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
80K after $8K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply.
$695 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 125K points after 6k spend [Expired 11/8/23]
80K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
80K after $8K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$695 Annual Fee
This card is only available to clients that maintain an eligible Schwab brokerage account.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 100K points + 10x when you Shop Small in the US & at restaurants worldwide [Expired 1/20/22]
60K Points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
60K after $4K spend in 3 months
$95 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: There may be elevated offers available by applying in-branch
A similar offer with the first year annual fee waived may be found in-branch. YMMV.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 60K points + $300 travel credit (Expired 11/14/24)
50K Miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
Earn a one-time 50K miles bonus when you spend $4,500 in the first 3 months. (Rates & Fees)
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
60K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer.
60K after $4,000 spend in first 3 months.
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
50K Miles ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer
50K after $4,500 spend in 3 months from account opening
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
40K points ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer
40K after $3K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply. See Rates & Fees
$150 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 60K after $3K spend in first 6 months + 20% off travel and transit purchases for first 6 months. [Expired 8/21/23]
60K Points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
60K after $4K spend in 3 months
$550 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: Expired 12/1/22: 80K after $4K spend
Limited Time Offer: 25K points / $250 cash back ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
Earn 25,000 points (worth $250 cash back) after spending $500 in the first 3 months
No Annual Fee
This card is likely subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: Unlimited Double Cash Back for 12 month (expired 1/11/24)
20K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer.
$200 cash back after spending $1.5K in first six months. Note: $200 is awarded as 20,000 ThankYou® Points.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
20K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
Earn 20,000 points (worth $200 cash back) after spending $500 in the first 3 months
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
20K miles ⓘFriend-ReferralThis is a friend-referral offer. A member of the Frequent Miler community may earn a referral bonus if you are approved for this offer
Earn 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
20K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
20K points after $1.5K spend in 3 months
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
20K Points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
20K points after $1500 spend in the first 6 months
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: Expired 9/13/22 - 20,000 points after $750 spend in first 3 months
20K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer.
20K after $1,000 spend in first 3 months.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
15K points + 0% APR for 12 months ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
15k points after $3k spend within the first 3 months + 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 17.49% - 27.49%,, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening. (Rates & Fees)
No Annual Fee
$200 statement credit Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
$200 statement credit after $1K Spend in 3 Months
No Annual Fee
15K points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
15K points after $3K spend within first 3 months of card membership. Terms & limitations apply. (Rates & Fees)
$95 Annual Fee
None ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
There is no official welcome bonus, but this card offers the opportunity to earn 1x points on rent when you make at least 5 transactions per billing cycle. Terms apply.
No Annual Fee
Note that some people see a targeted offer in the Bilt Rewards app to earn 5x points for the first 5 days after being approved and receiving and activating the card. This is not guaranteed, but rather is targeted. Select 'Click Here to Apply' to learn more about the product features, terms and conditions.

And here are the top airline miles offers. Click on any card link to go to a detailed Frequent Miler page about that card:

Card Offer
125K Miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
125K miles after $5K spend in first 3 months
(Offer Expires 5/7/2025)
$150 Annual Fee
Limited Time Offer - 90K miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
90K after $6K spend in first 6 months. Terms and limitations apply. (Rates & Fees)
(Offer Expires 4/2/2025)
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
75K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer.
75K miles after $3,500 spend in first 3 months
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99
Alternate Offer: There is an alternative offer of 30K + $400 AA credit that can be found when doing a dummy booking on aa.com.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 75K miles after $3,500 spend in 3 months (ended 10/14/24)
80k miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
80K miles after $3K spend in 3 months
(Offer Expires 5/7/2025)
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
75K miles + Companion Fare Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
75k miles + Companion Fare ($99 fare + taxes) after $3K spend in 90 days. An employee ID is required for the full offer, which can be found here
$95 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: There are usually better in-flight offers available that require the name and id number of an Alaska employee.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
75K miles + Companion Fare Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
75K miles + Companion Fare ($99 fare + taxes) after $4K spend in 3 months
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 70K after $4K in 3 months [Expired 4/23]
70K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
70K miles after $1k spend within first 90 days. Use code 000150 for this offer
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 70K miles after one purchase within first 90 days
90K Miles + 500 PQPs ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
90K miles and 500 PQPs after $4K spend in the first 3 months
(Offer Expires 5/7/2025)
$350 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Limited Time Offer - 80K miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
80K miles after $3K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
(Offer Expires 4/2/2025)
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
70K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
70K miles after 1st purchase and paying the annual fee within 90 days
$99 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Up to 75K: 60K miles after first purchase and 15K after adding an authorized user and making one purchase on that card [Expired 2/24/24]
125K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
125K Miles after $5K in purchases in the first 3 months
(Offer Expires 5/7/2025)
$695 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
65K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer.
65K miles after $4K spend in first 4 months
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 75K miles after $5K spend in first 5 months (ended 1/21/25)
80K points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
80K points after $5K spend within first 3 months your account is open
$199 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
70K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
70K miles after $1K in spend in 90 days and payment of annual fee.
$99 Annual Fee
Note that the landing page prompts you to enter a mobile phone number to continue the application, but you can click "no thanks" to continue the application on your desktop device.
70K miles + 100XP Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
70K miles + 40XP after $3K in the first 90 days + 60 XP upon approval
$89 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: Some people get an offer for $100 statement credit while doing a dummy booking.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Limited Time Offer - 100K miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
100K after $8K spend in first 6 months. Terms and limitations apply. (Rates & Fees)
(Offer Expires 4/2/2025)
$350 Annual Fee
30K points + Companion Pass ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
30K points + Companion Pass valid through 2/28/26 after $4K spend in the first 3 months.
(Offer Expires 3/31/2025)
$69 Annual Fee
After clicking through, be sure to manually select the exact Southwest card in which you are interested. This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Up to 70K Points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
60K points after $3K spend in the first 3 months and an additional 10K after the annual fee RENEWAL PAYMENT posts and is paid in full
$95 Annual Fee
This card is likely subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
60K points ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
60K points after $3K spend within first 3 months your account is open
$99 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
60K Points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
60K after $3K spend in 90 days + 2.5k for adding an authorised user (up to 4)
(Offer Expires 3/31/2025)
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Limited Time Offer - 90K miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
90K miles after $4K spend in 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
(Offer Expires 4/2/2025)
$350 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Limited Time Offer - 30K points + Companion Pass Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
30K points + Companion Pass valid through 2/28/26 after $4K spend in the first 3 months.
(Offer Expires 3/31/2025)
$99 Annual Fee
This card is known to be subject to Chase's 5/24 rule.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
60K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
60K Miles after $3K spend in 90 days + payment of the annual fee
$89 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Expired 1/1/23: 100K Miles after $3K spend in 90 days
75K Avios ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
Earn 75K Avios after $5K spend in 3 months
$95 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: Expired 7/4/22: 100K after $5K spend
75K Avios Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
Earn 75K Avios after $5K spend in 3 months
$95 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: Expired 7/4/22: 100K after $5K spend
75K Avios Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
Earn 75K Avios after $5K spend in 3 months
$95 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: Expired 7/4/22: 100K after $5K spend
50K Points + $100 Voucher Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
50K points plus $100 companion voucher after $1K spend in 90 days (enter any random five-digit number as "employee code")
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $79
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Limited Time Offer - 30K points + Companion Pass ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
30K points + Companion Pass valid through 2/28/26 after $4K spend in the first 3 months.
(Offer Expires 3/31/2025)
$149 Annual Fee
This card is known to be subject to Chase's 5/24 rule.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Up to 100K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
Up to 100K miles: Earn 60K bonus miles after $4.5K spend in first 90 days + 40K miles after $25K total spend in first 12 months
$249 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: (Expired 1/23/25) Up to 120K miles: Earn 80K bonus miles after $4.5K spend in first 90 days + 40K miles after $25K total spend in first 12 months
50k Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
50k miles after spending $4,000 within the first 90 days
$99 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Expired 9/11/22: 80K + $99 statement credit after $2K spend in first 90 days
Limited Time Offer - 110K miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
110k after $12K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
(Offer Expires 4/2/2025)
$650 Annual Fee
50K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
50K bonus miles after spending $2K in first 90 days
$99 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: 50K bonus miles after spending $4K in first 90 days + additional 10K miles after a purchase is made on an employee card in the first 90 days
Up to 60K Avios Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
20K Avios after first transaction, then an additional 40K after $3,500 spend within the first 90 days
(Offer Expires 3/31/2025)
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: None
Limited Time Offer - 100K miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
Earn 100K miles after $6K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
(Offer Expires 4/2/2025)
$650 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
50K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
50K miles after $5K in 90 days
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
50K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
Earn 50K bonus miles 10K status mile after $3K in first 90 days
(Offer Expires 4/14/2025)
$79 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: (Expired 1/10/25) Earn 50K bonus miles + 10K status miles after $2.5K in first 90 days
Up to 60K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
Earn 40K miles after $500 in purchases in the first 90 days + instant Gold status with account opening & first purchase; maintain Gold status for 12 months with $3,000 in purchases within first 90 days. Plus, earn additional 20K miles after spending $2K in the first 180 days
$99 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Up to 100K miles: Earn 50K miles + $100 Frontier flight voucher after $500 in purchases in the first 90 days + instant Gold status with account opening & first purchae; maintain Gold status for 12 months with $3,000 in purchases within first 90 days. Plus, earn an additional 50,000 miles if you apply by 1/31/25, are approved, provide proof that you are the primary cardholder of a co-branded credit card with another US domestic airline, and complete $3,000 in purchases in the first 180 days.
95K Miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
95k miles after $5k spend in first 3 months + 5K bonus miles after you add an authorized user in the first 3 months
(Offer Expires 5/7/2025)
$695 Annual Fee
This card is available to you if you do not have any United Club card and have not received a new Cardmember bonus for any United Club card in the past 24 months.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
60K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
60K miles after $5K spend in 90 days
$450 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
30K Miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
30K miles after $1K spend in first 3 months
(Offer Expires 7/16/2025)
No Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
40K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
Earn 40K bonus miles after $3K in first 90 days
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: (Expired 1/25) Earn 50K bonus miles after $3K in first 90 days
40K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
40K miles after $4K spend in 90 days
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
75K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
75K miles after $7,500 spend in first 3 months
$595 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
40K Miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
40K miles after $4K spend within 90 days of account opening
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
70K Miles + 5 tiles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
70K miles + 5 tiles after $5K in spend in 90 days and payment of annual fee.
$499 Annual Fee
Up to 85K Avios + 150 Qpoints Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
25K Avios after first transaction, then an additional 60K and 150 Qpoints after $6,000 spend within the first 90 days
(Offer Expires 3/31/2025)
$499 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: None
40K Miles + 1 Year Silver status Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
50K after $3K spend in 90 days
$99 Annual Fee
60K Miles + 6K Qualifiying Points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
60K + 6K Qualifiying Points miles after $3,500 spend within the first three months
(Offer Expires 4/30/2025)
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
25K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
25K after $1K in first 90 days
$59 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: You may be targeted for an offer including a $100 statement credit during a dummy booking.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
25K points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
25K points after $1,500 spend in the first 3 billing cycles
$69 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
25K Miles + 2.5K Qualifiying Points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
25K + 2.5K Qualifiying Pointsmiles after $1,500 spend within the first three months
(Offer Expires 4/30/2025)
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
10K miles Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
10K points after $1K spend in 90 days.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
10K Points Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
10K after $500 spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
10K miles ⓘAffiliateThis is an affiliate offer. Frequent Miler may earn a commission if you are approved for this offer
10K miles after $1000 spend in the first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
No Annual Fee
Note an unusual restriction: Welcome bonus not available if you've had another Delta consumer card in the past 90 days.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
50K Miles + 1 Year Gold status Non-AffiliateThis is NOT an affiliate offer. We always present the best offer even when it means less revenue for Frequent Miler
70K after $3K spend in 90 days
$499 Annual Fee
Want to learn more about miles and points? Subscribe to email updates or check out our podcast on your favorite podcast platform.
Subscribe
Notify of
guest

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

12 Comments
newest
oldest most voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

[…] Is it really worth buying these points? In the post “Should you invest in Starpoints now?” I argued that the answer depends on how you’ll use the points. For some purposes, it […]

Al_R

Quality post. Thanks Greg.

PSL

Deciding whether to purchase points is for many of us contingent on Marriott actually publishing the new travel package rates by July 20. I’m not taking any bets on that one.

Jeffrey@MillionMileGuy

This post took some time and thought. Nice post Greg, you do a great job.

DSK

Great meeting you at FTU in NYC. Wanted to make sure you saw latest merger news which appears to answer a key question about LTPP in 2018 differently than you (and most others) surmised. From the wiki thread–“Starwood Lurker” is SPG’s social media specialist:

B8. Do Marriott members with 2MM uncombined lifetime MR points and with 750 combined lifetime MR nights and lifetime SPG nights qualify for LTPP?

Yes.This is confirmed at marriott.members.com under the Benefits and Lifetime tab where it specifically states, “You can also qualify for Lifetime status via the existing criteria for Rewards and SPG through December 31, 2018.” Existing legacy criteria for earning Lifetime Platinum Premier in MR/RCR is 750 Lifetime nights + 2MM Lifetime points. Also, in August, when members combine Rewards and SPG accounts, their lifetime nights across both programs count toward Lifetime Elite status in the new combined program. To be included in at previous thresholds for Rewards or SPG, members will have until December 31, 2018, to complete stays in order to achieve the Lifetime Elite status.

GradCashGrab

Have they clarified if Starpoints sitting in your SPG account will become part of Marriott Lifetime points?

Nicholas

I purchased SPG points at the tail end of the last sale because I saw a good redemption opportunity coming up and knew I’d get a good value out of them. Yesterday, I finalized flight arrangements and used the points to book 3 rooms for 3 nights at the Sheraton Miraflores in Lima, Peru for 33,000 points next May. The cash cost for all 3 rooms for 3 nights would have been $2,100+ after taxes, so I feel like I secured good value with the booking.