Credit Card News
Bilt Rewards Adds Hilton Honors as Latest Transfer Partner
Bilt Rewards has added yet another travel transfer partner to its program.
About the partnership:
Today, Bilt Rewards announced a new partnership with Hilton. As a result, Bilt members and Bilt Mastercard customers can now transfer Bilt Points to Hilton Honors at a rate of 1:1. Additionally, through June 8th, 2024, members who transfer at least 1,000 Bilt Points to Hilton can earn 1,000 bonus Hilton Honors points. However, note that there’s a 2,000-point transfer minimum for those with Bilt’s basic “Blue” status, while those with Silver status or higher can transfer as few as 1,000 points.
Hilton is now Bilt’s fourth hotel transfer partner, joining World of Hyatt, IHG, and Marriott (who joined back in November 2023). It’s also the 18th partner overall. Prior to today’s announcement, the newest partner was Alaska Airlines, which was added in March. For each, the transfer rate is 1:1 — although, with Marriott Bonvoy, members can earn an additional 5,000 Marriott Bonvoy points for every 20,000 in Bilt Points they transfer.
What they’re saying:
Announcing the new partnership, Bilt Rewards founder and CEO Ankur Jain said, “Users can turn their rewards into stays at some of the most beautiful Hilton properties around the world, turning Hilton’s network into your home away from home. We are excited about this partnership and providing the best of the best in rewards and benefits to all of our members.”
Meanwhile, Hilton’s SVP and global head of Loyalty & Customer Engagement Jenn Chick stated, “As consumers plan for their next vacation, whether it’s a solo trip or one with family or friends, they want more ways for their everyday expenses like rent to unlock their next stay. Hilton Honors members are always looking for more ways to earn Points, and our relationship with Bilt Rewards provides a new pathway for members to turn one of their largest monthly expenses into their next stay with Hilton.”
My thoughts:
I’m always in favor of having more travel transfer partner options, so this Bilt and Hilton news is a win in that aspect. But, outside of the current promotion, this may not be the best value for Bilt Points. To highlight this, look no further than the American Express Membership Rewards program where members can transfer points to Hilton at a ratio of 1:2 (meaning they get two Hilton Honors points for every Amex Members Rewards point). Meanwhile, other shared partners including Marriott are 1:1 for both programs.
In other words, unless you can find a killer deal on Hilton’s end, need to stay at a Hilton, and Bilt is the only transferable currency you have, it’s probably best to use your Bilt Points for other redemptions.