In the points and miles collection game, there’s no such thing as “too many points,” as you’ll always need points for your next redemption. This, coupled with the “it never hurts to ask” adage, can be really beneficial to your points stash. I wanted to share some of my experiences, with the hope that it emboldens you to ask on future applications!
Example 1: Citi AAdvantage Platinum
I recently applied for this card (you can read about my mini App-o-Rama here) when the 50,000 point bonus with no 24-month language came out.
(READ MORE: Citi AA Platinum 50K offer WITHOUT the 24-month language)
Then, last week, my significant other received a targeted mailing from American Airlines offering 60,000 points for the same $3,000 in spend. What the what! So I logged into my Citi account, sent them a message saying I had received a targeted mailing at my address (the truth!) and would like to be matched to that bonus. Less that 24 hours later, I had a reply stating they would add the 10,000 points to my account within two billing statements. Success!
Example 2: Chase IHG
I applied for this card about a year ago when the bonus was 60,000 points, and wouldn’t you know, as soon as I applied, the 80,000 point offer came out. Grrrrr. Many people have had success with Chase matching bonuses (see below), but when I asked to be matched, they asked for proof of being targeted, something I did not have. I believe this had to do with the 80,000 point being targeted, but I could be wrong. As such, I was unable to provide the proof, and my request was denied. Womp womp.
Example 3: Chase Sapphire Preferred
For my last example, I had my partner apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred to lock that card in before he was over 5/24, and he was approved for the 40,000 point offer. Right after that, they raised the standard offer to 50,000 points. I had him message Chase and ask for the 10,000 points, and he was approved, no proof required. I was really excited by this, as Ultimate Rewards points are really versatile.
(READ MORE: Why I Keep Recommending the Chase Sapphire Preferred for People Starting Out)
A Word of Caution
Some banks will not match points if you apply for a bonus and a higher one comes out. American Express is notorious for this, as is Barclays. Doctor of Credit has a great list that encompasses a good number of banks here.
Conclusion
Two out of three ain’t bad, and it netted us an additional 20,000 points for future travel. Like I said above, it never hurts to ask, and with a 66% success rate, I’ll continue to ask as the need arises–the worst they can say is no and you move on with your life!
[2 phone calls just netted me 10,000 SPG points!]
Let us know below if you have any good point-match stories below!