redit card reward programs are a great way to get extra value from your everyday spending. Whether it’s cashback, airline miles, or reward points, credit cards offer incentives that can save you money or earn you free travel. However, many cardholders often wonder: Do credit card points expire? The answer is: it depends on your card issuer and how you manage your account.
In this article, we’ll cover when and why credit card points may expire, how to keep your points active, and tips to make the most of your rewards.
What Are Credit Card Reward Points?
Credit card reward points are earned every time you make an eligible purchase using your credit card. Most banks offer reward programs where you earn a certain number of points per ₹100 spent. These points can be redeemed for merchandise, gift vouchers, cashback, travel bookings, or even converted to airline miles.
But just like loyalty programs or coupons, these points may come with an expiration date-which means if you don’t use them in time, you could lose them.
Do Credit Card Points Expire?
Yes, in many cases.
Most banks and financial institutions have policies regarding the validity of reward points. Some reward points expire after a fixed period, while others may remain active as long as your account is in good standing.
Common expiry periods:
- 24 to 36 months after the points are earned.
- Some banks follow a rolling expiry, where each point expires a certain number of months after it’s earned.
- A few premium or travel credit cards offer non-expiring points, but these are less common.
Reasons Why Credit Card Points Expire
1. Fixed Validity Period
Most issuers define a fixed time window during which points must be used. For example, HDFC Bank’s credit card reward points may expire after 2 years from the date they are earned.
2. Account Inactivity
If your credit card is inactive for several months, banks may forfeit your accumulated points, even if they haven’t technically reached the expiry date.
3. Account Closure
If you close your credit card account, any unused reward points will typically expire immediately unless you redeem them before closing the card.
4. Late Payments or Default
In some cases, if you miss payments or your account goes into default, you may lose your accumulated points as a penalty.
How to Check If Your Points Will Expire
Each bank has different rules, so it’s important to check:
- Your credit card terms and conditions.
- The monthly card statement (often includes reward balance and expiry dates).
- The bank’s app or website under the rewards or card benefits section.
- Customer support via call or chat.
How to Prevent Credit Card Points From Expiring
1. Track Your Rewards Regularly
Set a reminder every 3 to 6 months to check your points balance and upcoming expirations.
2. Use Points Frequently
Don’t wait for a big redemption. Use your points for small but frequent rewards like mobile recharges, shopping vouchers, or fuel cards.
3. Stay Active With the Card
Even using the card for minor expenses like groceries or subscriptions can keep your rewards active and avoid forfeiture due to inactivity.
4. Redeem Before Account Closure
If you’re planning to cancel your credit card, redeem all reward points first to avoid losing them.
5. Opt for Cards With No Expiry Policy
Some credit cards, especially premium ones, offer non-expiring points. If you frequently travel or spend a lot, this could be a better choice.
What Happens to Points When You Upgrade or Downgrade a Card?
In many cases, upgrading or downgrading a credit card with the same bank does not affect your points, especially if the rewards program remains unchanged. However, if your new card uses a different program or issuer, you may lose your existing points. Always confirm this with your bank before making a switch.
Final Thoughts
Yes, credit card points can expire, and if you’re not aware of the expiry rules, you might lose valuable rewards. To avoid this, stay informed about your card’s policies, use your points regularly, and keep your account in good standing.
Managing your credit card wisely doesn’t just help you avoid interest charges or late fees-it also ensures you maximize the benefits that come with it. Reward points are like digital currency, and with smart usage, you can turn them into real value.