Credit Cards
Chase and IHG Refresh Credit Card Line-Up, Add Business Credit Card
When it comes to hotel chains, the Hiltons and Marriots of the world seem to get the most attention — including when it comes to co-branded credit cards. However, many forget that IHG is actually one of the top hotel groups in the world. Now, perhaps in a bid to re-establish some of its dominance, IHG has announced a complete refresh of its co-branded card line-up, which is issued by Chase.
First, the IHG Rewards Club Traveler Mastercard has been renamed the IHG Rewards Traveler Mastercard and now offers a slate of new rewards. Cardholders will earn 3 points per dollar spent on utilities, internet, cable, phone, and select streaming services. Additionally, the card now earns 3x points on dining and at gas stations as well as 2x points on all other purchases. Meanwhile, customers with the card will continue to earn 5x points on IHG stays.
Also new on the IHG Rewards Traveler Mastercard is that cardholders will now enjoy automatic IHG Rewards Silver Elite status. Furthermore, those who spend at least $20,000 in a calendar year (as well as one additional purchase) can earn Gold Elite status. Despite these improvements, the card continues to carry a $0 annual fee.
Next up, the IHG Rewards Premier Mastercard has also received some upgraded rewards. In addition to earning 10x points on IHG stays, cardholders will now earn 5x points on travel purchases (up from 1x) and 5x points on dining and gas station purchases (increased from 2x). All other purchases will earn 3x points. However, while the card previously came at a cost of $89 per year, that annual fee will increase to $99 a year for new cardholders while current cardholders will see the new price go into effect starting in 2023.
Customers with the IHG Rewards Premier Mastercard will continue to earn automatic Platinum Elite status but will now also have the opportunity to unlock Diamond Elite status when they make $40,000 in purchases (plus one additional purchase) each calendar year. Another notable new perk is that customers will be able to claim up to $50 in United TravelBank Cash each calendar year when they link their IHG Rewards Premier Card to their United MileagePlus account.
Lastly, IHG and Chase have also introduced a new business co-branded card. The IHG Rewards Premier Business Mastercard earns 10x points on IHG stays, 5X points on travel, gas station, dining, and office supply store purchases as well as on social media and search engine advertising. All other purchases will earn 3x points. Elsewhere, the Premier Business mirrors many of the perks of the personal version, including the automated Platinum Elite status, the opportunity to earn Diamond Elite status via spending on the card, the $50 United TravelBank Cash credit, and more. Additionally, like with the personal Premier, the IHG Rewards Premier Business card carries an annual fee of $99.
Overall, the refreshes made to the IHG credit card line-up all seem to be positive news for cardholders and IHG fans. Plus, with all three cards offering welcome bonuses of 120,000 points or more, now could be a great time to apply for one of these options.
