Ultimate Guide to Hotel Loyalty Program Status Matches and Challenges

Key Takeaways

• Status match programs allow travelers to align their elite status from one hotel loyalty program to another, gaining similar benefits and privileges.
• Status challenges require meeting specific stay criteria within a set period to earn elite status more quickly, providing a faster route to premium benefits.
• Benefits vary by program but can include room upgrades, late check-out, free breakfast, waived fees, and bonus points.

Most travelers enjoy the special treatment they receive from having a hotel loyalty program elite status — so much so that long-term relationships may be built with that hotel brand preference. Fortunately, with hotel loyalty program status matches and challenges, you may not have to give up those hard-earned perks to try out a new brand — and that is our topic today.

We will discuss leveraging your current hotel loyalty program’s elite status to receive corresponding complimentary elite status in another hotel loyalty program. This strategy can be extremely helpful if you’ve relocated, changed jobs, or want to try a different hotel brand.

How Do Hotel Loyalty Program Status Matches and Challenges Work?

Hotel rewards programs want to attract good customers with proven loyalty. A strategy for doing so is to match your current earned hotel elite status to the corresponding elite status in their hotel loyalty program.

This match gives a proven loyal customer time to try out the new brand while having similar elite status, with hopes that the guest will continue to stay at that brand. It’s worth noting that normally only earned (versus granted) elite status will be matched, but there are exceptions where status held by having a co-branded hotel credit card has been matched.

A granted status match may be granted for 90 days and may include requirements for a specified number of stays or nights within that time period to extend your status. This additional stay requirement is commonly called a “challenge.” If you meet the challenge stay requirements, the extended status could last a set number of additional months, the remainder of the current calendar year, or even the entire subsequent calendar year, depending on the structure of the match or challenge.

Note that usually, only paid stays count towards a challenge, and stays must be booked directly through the hotel reservation website versus a third party, such as an online travel agency.

Most major hotel loyalty programs offer matches, challenges, or a combination of the 2, but offers can be withdrawn anytime. Also, not all hotel loyalty programs publish the requirements for a status match or challenge. In these cases, different customers may receive different offers.

Look at some of the most popular hotel loyalty program status matches and challenges.

Hot Tip:

Watch your email or online loyalty account for targeted hotel status matches or challenges offered to loyalty program elite members. For example, American Airlines AAdvantage elite members may be targeted for World of Hyatt elite status matches or challenges or United MileagePlus elite members for Marriott Bonvoy matches or challenges.

Marriott Bonvoy

The Status Match and Challenge

While Marriott Bonvoy doesn’t publish a status match or challenge to other hotel loyalty program elite status, reports are that matches and challenges have been approved.

Enroll in the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program before inquiring about a match or challenge. Have your account number ready, then call Marriott Bonvoy at 800-535-4028 and ask for a Marriott Bonvoy representative (if you are not immediately directed to one). Indicate that you have elite status with another hotel program and would like to try out Marriott Bonvoy’s elite status and ask for a status match.

You may be granted a match and/or given a challenge. If given a challenge, reports are that you will have the remainder of the current month plus 3 additional months to complete the challenge. For example, if you call in on March 15, you would have the remainder of March plus all of April, May, and June to complete the stays you need to extend status.

Here’s a typical Marriott Bonvoy elite challenge.

• Gold Challenge — Stay 8 paid nights
• Platinum Challenge — Stay 16 paid nights

A word of caution voiced by members who have completed the challenge and had issues: document the challenge offer, follow up with a call back to make sure the challenge is noted in your account, and check your Marriott Bonvoy account to see if the challenge has been listed under your “promotions.” You may or may not see it, but if it is, you can be assured you’re registered.

You could also request a follow-up email confirming that you are enrolled in the challenge and that it states the specific terms of the challenge such as dates, number of nights needed, and level of elite status requested.

Since Marriott Bonvoy does not publish a status match or challenge, this information was gathered by calling Marriott Bonvoy directly, from the Marriott Insider Facebook page, and sites such as StatusMatcher and FlyerTalk.

The Benefits of Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status

All elite members receive complimentary Wi-Fi, a dedicated reservation line, and a fifth night free when booking 5 consecutive award nights.

This is just an overview of the key benefits of Marriott Bonvoy elite status. We’ve written extensively on how to earn lots of Marriott Bonvoy points, and the best way to redeem your Marriott Bonvoy points for maximum value. We’ve also discussed in depth how to earn Marriott Bonvoy Elite status.

Hot Tip:

Marriott Bonvoy’s preferred partnership with United Airlines matches United MileagePlus Premier Gold members (and higher) to Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status.

The Best Credit Cards for Marriott Bonvoy Loyalists

American Express and Chase issue several Marriott-branded credit cards, each with the potential to serve a Marriott guest well. Here are just a couple of the best credit cards for Marriott loyalists:

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

95,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$665

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
• 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• Steep annual fee of $650 (rates & fees)
• 6x points per $1 is the same earn rate offered with lower annual fee alternatives like the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express^® Card

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card at restaurants worldwide.
• With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy^® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy^® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card.
• Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
• $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton^® or St. Regis^® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
• Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck^® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
• Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
• With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• $650 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Why We Like the Card for Marriott Bonvoy Loyalists:

• Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status
• Worldwide lounge access to over 1,400 Priority Pass locations upon enrollment
• Free hotel night certificate each card anniversary year, worth up to 85,000 points
• $100 property credit at Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis properties
• 6x earnings at participating Marriott Bonvoy properties, 3x earnings on flights booked with airlines and U.S. restaurants, 2x earnings on all other purchases
• 25 qualifying elite night credits toward elite status
• Up to $300 annual dining credit on eligible restaurant purchases worldwide (enrollment required)
• Trip cancellation and interruption insurance

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Welcome Offer

Earn 125,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from your account opening.

125,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$875

Annual Fee

$95

APR

20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

If you’re a frequent traveler and a Marriott loyalist, there’s a lot to love about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card. The card comes packed with several great benefits like a free hotel night once a year, automatic Silver Elite status (with a fast-track to Gold Elite status), and multiple options for redeeming points.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Earn big when you use your card at thousands of participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
• Earn big at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
• Automatic Silver Elite Status

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Marriott Silver Elite Status is the lowest status tier

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 125,000 bonus points after qualifying purchases - our best points offer!
• Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
• Earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
• 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary.
• Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Card.
• Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Your points don't expire as long as you make purchases on your card every 24 months.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Why We Like the Card for Marriott Bonvoy Loyalists:

• Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status
• Receive Gold Elite status after spending $35,000 on the card
• Free hotel night certificate each card anniversary year, worth up to 35,000 points
• Up to 17x earnings at participating Marriott properties, 2x earnings on all other purchases
• 15 qualifying elite night credits towards elite status, plus earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.

Both cards come with complimentary premium Wi-Fi at Marriott properties, no foreign transaction fees, purchase protection, and travel benefits such as secondary car rental insurance, trip delay, and baggage delay.

Bottom Line: Marriott Bonvoy may offer a status match and/or a challenge if you call in and request one. You may be able to participate in a Gold or Platinum level challenge that will extend status after staying 8 qualifying nights or 16 qualifying nights, respectively, within a 90-day challenge period. 

Hilton Honors

The Status Match and Challenge

Hilton Honors will match most current equivalent hotel elite statuses to its Gold level for an initial 90-day period. During that time period, you’ll have the option to complete a challenge.

• Stay 8 nights during the 90-day challenge period and extend Gold status through March 31, 2025
• Stay 14 nights during the 90-day challenge period and receive top-level Diamond status through March 31, 2025

To request that your current elite status be matched and to participate in a challenge, sign up for Hilton Honors, then complete the online status match request. You’ll need to provide your Hilton Honors membership number and upload proof of your current hotel elite status.

The Benefits of Hilton Honors Elite Status

The benefits of Hilton Honors elite status are many. Here are just some highlights of what you can expect as a Hilton Honors elite:

All elite members receive late checkout when available, elite rollover nights, and no resort fees on award stays.

The Best Credit Card for Hilton Honors Loyalists

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

You’ll normally find nothing higher than mid-level elite status on a hotel-branded credit card, but the Hilton Aspire card delivers much more. The card offers top-level Hilton Honors Diamond status for as long as you hold it.

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Automatic Hilton Diamond status, an annual free night, and a travel and resort credit make this the perfect card for those who stay in Hilton hotels.

All information about Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points.

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Automatic Hilton Diamond status, an annual free night, and a travel and resort credit make this the perfect card for those who stay in Hilton hotels.

Welcome Offer

Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership

175,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$875

Annual Fee

$550

APR

20.99% - 29.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The information regarding the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

---

Paying hundreds of dollars for an annual fee on a co-branded hotel card might seem ridiculous, but you should know that the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is much more than your run-of-the-mill hotel credit card.

The Hilton Aspire card is not only a phenomenal card for Hilton Honors loyalists, but even those who visit Hilton hotels just a few times a year can still get excellent value out of all the benefits that are packed into this card.

So let’s have a look at what makes the card so valuable to travelers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 14x points per $1 on Hilton purchases
• 7x points per $1 on select travel and at U.S. restaurants
• 3x points per $1 on all other eligible purchases

Cons

• High annual fee of $550

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership
• Earn 14x Hilton Honors Bonus Points when you make eligible purchases on your card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio
• Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for eligible travel purchases: on flights booked directly with airlines or AmexTravel.com and on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies
• Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points on dining at U.S. restaurants, including takeout and delivery
• Earn 3x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for other eligible purchases on your card
• Enjoy up to $400 in Hilton Resort Credits (up to $200 in statement credits semi-annually) on your card each anniversary year when you stay at participating resorts within the Hilton portfolio
• Enjoy complimentary Diamond status
• $550 annual fee

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 29.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Why We Like the Card for Hilton Honors Loyalists:

• 14x earnings at Hilton
• $400 Hilton resort credit
• $200 statement credit for airline incidentals
• $100 on-property credit for a 2-night stay or more at a Waldorf Astoria or Conrad property

Bottom Line: Hilton Honors will grant a status match for an initial 90-day period and then extend the status after completion of the challenge requirements during that time. Staying 8 qualifying nights during the period extends Gold status while staying 14 nights is required to extend Platinum status. The Hilton Aspire card offers the quickest way to top elite status, offering Diamond level status as long as you have the card. 

World of Hyatt

The Status Match and Challenge

While there isn’t a public status match or challenge available with World of Hyatt, some corporations are eligible for their employees to participate in status challenges. Check with your travel booking department to see if your company currently participates.

Hyatt has also had an ongoing partnership with American Airlines. Select AAdvantage elite members could qualify for Hyatt elite challenges or status matches. You can link your accounts online.

The Benefits of World of Hyatt Elite Status

Whether it’s entry-level Discoverist status, mid-tier Explorist, or top-level Globalist, you’ll enjoy the perks of being a World of Hyatt elite. Here’s a quick overview of the benefits of having status with Hyatt including the annual requirements for each level.

All elite members receive premium internet, a dedicated reservation line, bottled water, members-only rates, a dedicated check-in area, and the ability to earn Milestone Rewards.

The Best Credit Card for World of Hyatt Loyalists

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

The World of Hyatt card supports the World of Hyatt loyalty program nicely with free hotel nights, elite qualifying nights each year, entry-level elite status, and elevated earnings at Hyatt properties.

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The World of Hyatt card offers a fast track to Hyatt elite status, an annual free night, and up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

The World of Hyatt card offers a fast track to Hyatt elite status, an annual free night, and up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays.

Welcome Offer

Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months. Plus, up to 30,000 more points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, up to $15,000 spent.

Up to 60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$900

Annual Fee

$95

APR

20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The World of Hyatt Credit Card makes your Hyatt stays more rewarding and helps you get coveted World of Hyatt elite status faster. This card is a must-have for any traveler who regularly stays at Hyatt hotels, or even for anyone who’s able to take advantage of the card’s annual free night certificate.

When you factor in all the benefits the World of Hyatt card offers, it’s easy to see why it is one of the best co-branded hotel credit cards on the market.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
• 2x points per $1 at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airline, local transit, rideshares, and fitness clubs/gym memberships
• 1x point per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $95 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
• Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
• Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
• Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
• Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
• Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
• Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
• Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

World of Hyatt

Why We Like the Card for World of Hyatt Loyalists:

• Free hotel night certificate at card renewal
• Complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status
• 5 elite qualifying nights towards elite status qualification each calendar year
• Earn 2 additional elite qualifying nights for each $5,000 spent on the card
• 9x earnings at Hyatt
• 2x earnings on flights, local transit, fitness/gym memberships, restaurants

Bottom Line: World of Hyatt is not offering a public status match or challenge currently, but certain corporate clients may be able to participate in a status challenge.

IHG One Rewards

The Status Match and Challenge

IHG One Rewards periodically offers status matches and fast-track challenges. Its most recent offer included a fast-track offer to Gold or Platinum Elite status when staying 2 or 5 nights, respectively.

IHG does allow you to purchase Ambassador Elite status, which grants elite benefits at InterContinental properties. Ambassador status costs $200, or you can redeem 40,000 IHG One Rewards points.

The Benefits of IHG One Rewards Elite Status

All IHG One Rewards elite members receive late checkout, special member rates, and free internet. Rewards nights also count toward elite status for all members.

Here are the additional benefits you can expect with IHG One Rewards elite status:

The Best Credit Card for IHG One Rewards Loyalists

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

• Complimentary Platinum Elite status as long as you hold the card
• Free night certificate at each card anniversary
• Spend $20,000 in a calendar year on the card and receive 10,000 bonus points
• Trip cancellation and interruption insurance

To decide which IHG-branded credit card is right for you, you’ll want to read our full review. We’ve covered these topics to learn how to earn lots of IHG One Rewards points and redeem them for great value, too.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The perfect card for IHG fans, offering a free night every year, automatic Platinum Elite status, and your fourth night free on award stays.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

The perfect card for IHG fans, offering a free night every year, automatic Platinum Elite status, and your fourth night free on award stays.

Welcome Offer

Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

140,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$700

Annual Fee

$99

APR

20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

If you regularly visit IHG hotels throughout the year, then the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is probably a perfect card to have in your wallet.

The IHG Premier card offers a great bundle of perks and benefits, including automatic Platinum elite status, an annual free night certificate, and travel protections.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Up to 26x points per $1 on IHG stays
• 5x points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants
• 3x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $99 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable points

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 140,000 Bonus Points
• Enjoy an Anniversary Free Night at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Plus, enjoy a fourth reward night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG^® hotel stay.
• Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts
• Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier cardmember
• Global Entry, TSA PreCheck^® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 ($120 starting 10/1/24) every 4 years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card
• IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at Hotels & Resorts such as InterContinental^®, Crowne Plaza^®, Kimpton^®, EVEN^® Hotels, Indigo^® Hotels & Holiday Inn^®
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Bottom Line: Ambassador status, good at Intercontinental properties, can be purchased for $200. IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status can be secured with the IHG Premier card. 

Wyndham Rewards

The Status Match and Challenge

Update: While Wyndham has currently suspended its status match and challenge program, we’ll still detail the previous program as we are hopeful the program will return. One exception to suspending Wyndham status matches is the brand’s reciprocatory relationship with the Caesars Rewards program. Top Wyndham Rewards Platinum and Diamond members may still status match to the Caesars Rewards program. 

If you are a member of any of the major hotel loyalty programs, Wyndham will match you to its Gold-level status. You do not need to have elite status in another program to receive Wyndham Gold status.

Wyndham offers an elite status match that grants equivalent elite status 90 days from approval. To extend the status, the member must complete the required amount of stays during the 90-day period.

For the Platinum level, the required number of stays for the challenge is 7, and for Diamond, 14 stays. Once those stays are completed, the status is extended to December 31 of the following calendar year.

Here is a sampling of what you can expect when you request a status match with Wyndham.

The Benefits of Wyndham Rewards Elite Status

All Wyndham Rewards members receive free Wi-Fi, rollover elite nights, a go free local gift or experience discount voucher, and a minimum of 1,000 points per stay.

The Best Credit Card for Wyndham Rewards Loyalists

Wyndham Rewards^® Earner℠ Plus Card

Wyndham Rewards^® Earner℠ Plus Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Wyndham Rewards Earner+ card is a great option for travelers looking to earn more Wyndham points and get automatic Platinum elite status.

Learn More(at Barclays' secure site)

Wyndham Rewards^® Earner℠ Plus Card

The Wyndham Rewards Earner+ card is a great option for travelers looking to earn more Wyndham points and get automatic Platinum elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 100,000 bonus points, enough for up to 13 free nights at participating properties, after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first 6 months.

100,000 points

Annual Fee

$75

APR

20.99% to 29.99% variable

Why We Like This Card

The information regarding the Wyndham Rewards^® Earner℠ Plus Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. 

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Adding co-branded hotel credit cards to your wallet can be a great idea for casual and frequent travelers alike. These cards can help you earn more points on each stay, give you elite status with the hotel chain, and give you a free night just for holding on to the card each year.

If you’re someone that likes to visit Wyndham hotels, then the Wyndham Rewards Earner+ card is one that you should consider adding to your wallet. Let’s take a look at all of the ways that this card can upgrade your Wyndham stays.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points per $1 spent at Wyndham hotels and gas stations
• 4x points per $1 on dining and grocery store purchases
• Automatic Wyndham Rewards Platinum elite status

Cons

• $75 annual fee

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Card Highlights

• Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first six months. Free nights can require up to 30,000 points per bedroom at participating properties and are subject to availability. Resort fees may apply and cannot be paid with points.
• Earn 6 points per $1 spent on eligible purchases made at Hotels By Wyndham as well as on qualifying gas purchases.
• Earn 4 points per $1 spent on eligible dining and grocery purchases (excluding Target^® and Walmart^®).
• Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases (excluding Wyndham Timeshare resorts down payments). That means paying bills, buying home office supplies, car repairs, and more are earning you your next great vacation!
• Annual Bonus. Receive 7,500 bonus points each anniversary year—that’s enough for up to one free night at participating properties.
• Automatic PLATINUM Level Benefits! Automatically receive a Wyndham Rewards PLATINUM member level and enjoy perks like early check-in, car rental upgrades, and more.
• Enjoy a Cardmember Booking Discount. Wyndham Rewards Earner Plus Cardmembers can save even more on our Best Available Rate at participating Hotels By Wyndham.
• Unlimited Earning. There is no limit to the number of points you can earn.
• go free^® Faster. Redeem 10% fewer Wyndham Rewards points for go free^® awards.
• Redeem your points for free nights at participating Wyndham Rewards properties, online shopping, gift cards and so much more.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% to 29.99% variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 0% of each transaction in U.S. dollars

Why We Like the Card for Wyndham Rewards Loyalists:

• Welcome bonus
• 6x earnings for spending at Wyndham properties in addition to 10 points per dollar for staying at Wyndham, plus 5x earnings on gas
• 4x earnings on dining and groceries
• 7,500 Wyndham Rewards points at each card renewal
• $75 annual fee

Barclays also issues a Wyndham Rewards^® Earner℠ Card with no annual fee. You can learn more about these 2 cards and how to earn Wyndham Rewards points here.

Bottom Line: Wyndham Rewards will match members of other hotel rewards programs to its Gold status level and corresponding elite members to the same Wyndham Rewards elite level. To extend status beyond the initial 90-day match, Gold level requires 7 qualifying stays and Diamond requires 14 stays. 

Choice Privileges

The Status Match and Challenge

Join Choice Privileges to be eligible for a status match with Choice Privileges.

Send an email to status_match@choicehotels.com (U.S. and Canadian members), status_match_EU@choicehotels.com (for European members), or cp@choicehotels.au (for Australian or New Zealand members) and include the following information.

• Full name
• Choice Privileges member number
• Screenshot or copy of your other program’s membership card, current statement, or account status page showing your status and expiration date

You can expect to be matched to the Gold or Platinum Elite level.

However, if you stay 1 night at a Cambria hotel, you will be upgraded to Diamond Elite status. Just add this documentation to your request:

• A copy or screenshot of your Cambria hotel folio or receipt

You can expect a response within 3 to 5 business days.

Status matches granted for Diamond status between January and June normally provide elite status through the remainder of that calendar year. Matches to Diamond status granted June through December normally receive status through the end of the following year. Guests who received a Diamond status match in the previous year are not eligible in the current year.

If you were previously matched to a status less than Diamond, you might still remain eligible for a Diamond status match with a Cambria stay.

The Benefits of Choice Privileges Elite Status

All elite members receive exclusive member rates, a dedicated elite customer service line, and express reservations/check-in. Here are some of the key benefits of Choice Privileges’ elite status.

While elite status doesn’t result in a long list of benefits, if you can secure a status match to Diamond and have an upcoming stay or 2, you could benefit from extra bonus points and an upgraded room.

The Best Credit Card for Choice Privileges Loyalists

Choice Privileges^® Select Mastercard^®

If you stay with Choice often, you might want to check out this Choice-branded credit card. The card does have an annual fee but it is waived the first year! You’ll also find a nice welcome offer and super-elevated earnings at Choice properties.

Why We Like the Card for Choice Privileges Loyalists:

• Generous welcome bonus worth up to 11 free hotel nights
• 20 elite status night credits each year, enough for complimentary Choice Privileges Platinum Elite status
• 10x points per dollar spent at eligible Choice properties
• 5x earnings at grocery stores, gas stations, home improvement stores, and on phone service
• 1x earnings on all other purchases
• 30,000 bonus points at each card renewal anniversary
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement
• Cell phone protection
• World Elite Mastercard benefits

If you prefer a no-annual-fee card, there is also the Choice Privileges^® Mastercard^®.

For more information on earning and redeeming Choice Privileges rewards, check out our guides on the best ways to earn Choice Privilege points and the best ways to redeem Choice Privilege points.

Bottom Line: Choice Privileges will match you to Gold or Platinum level based on your current hotel elite status, but if you stay at a Cambria hotel just 1 night, you could be matched to Diamond-level elite status. 

Best Western Rewards

The Status Match — Best Western

Best Western Rewards offers a “No Catch” status match that matches your current hotel program elite status and extends that status to the end of the program year.

Join Best Western Rewards, call 800-444-7646 if you have questions, and complete the status match request form. You’ll need to include documentation of your current hotel status. A prompt reply is promised.

Elite members who status match in 2023 will have their elite tier extended through March 2025.

The Benefits of Best Western Rewards Elite Status

Here are the core benefits you’ll receive when matched to any of these elite levels, plus the qualifications you would normally have to achieve:

All Best Western Rewards elite members receive a dedicated reservation line, points that never expire, no blackout dates, and free award nights that count toward elite status.

The Status Match — WorldHotels

In early 2019, Best Western acquired the luxury hotel brand WorldHotels. Although its footprint is small, with just 300 properties worldwide, the acquisition serves to round out the brand with an upscale accommodations option.

The brand’s “No Catch” status match functions like the Best Western program in that you must first join WorldHotels Rewards, then complete a form to request the match. WorldHotels Rewards will determine the equivalent match level based on your status with the other hotel chain.

The benefits of elite status with WorldHotels Rewards align with the same benefits as Best Western Rewards.

The Best Credit Card for Best Western Rewards Loyalists

Best Western Rewards^® Premium Mastercard^®

Why We Like the Card for Best Western Rewards Loyalists:

• Complimentary Platinum Elite status as long as you have the card
• Welcome bonus worth up to 4 free hotel nights
• 20x points per dollar spent at Best Western (10x points for having the card + 10x points for Platinum status)
• Low annual fee

Best Western also has a co-branded card that has no annual fee. The Best Western Rewards^® Mastercard^® earns 13x points per dollar spent at Best Western properties.

Bottom Line:

Best Western will match your hotel elite status through March 2025 if you are approved for a status match in 2023. You can also request a status match with the associated WorldHotels Rewards program and receive the same length of granted status.

Sonesta Travel Pass

While Sonesta sports a small footprint worldwide with less than 100 properties, the offerings are diverse and range from upscale resorts and extended-stay properties to unique, intimate accommodations.

The Status Match

A status match is simple to obtain by first joining Sonesta Travel Pass, then sending an email to travelpass@sonesta.com. Include your Travel Pass number and a copy of your current hotel status credentials with another hotel chain, such as your membership card or statement.

Sonesta will match to the Preferred or Elite level depending on your current status with the other hotel chain.

The Benefits of Sonesta Travel Pass Loyalty Status

All Sonesta Travel Pass members receive complimentary upgraded Wi-Fi, 5% off, express check-in and checkout, customized room preferences, member-only offers, and assistance from a Member Champion during their stay.

Here’s an overview of the requirements and key benefits for Sonesta Travel Pass elite members.

The Best Credit Card for Sonesta Loyalists

Sonesta World Mastercard^® Credit Card

• Generous welcome bonus worth up to 6 free hotel nights
• 3x earnings at Sonesta (a total of 13x earnings for Travel Pass members)
• 2x earnings on car rental, dining, and airfare
• Spend $7,500 each anniversary year and receive 30,000 bonus points
• Complimentary Elite-level member status
• Complimentary room upgrades
• 15% discount on dining and amenities
• No foreign transaction fees
• $75 annual fee waived the first year

Bottom Line: If you’re a Sonesta fan, have upcoming stays with the hotel chain, and have elite status with another hotel loyalty program, requesting a status match is an easy way to gain benefits that can make your stay more comfortable and also more rewarding. 

Status Challenge Considerations

Before you jump in and request a challenge, be sure to investigate and learn the answers to these questions:

• Can I receive written confirmation of the terms and conditions of the status match or challenge?
• What are the exact start and end dates for the challenge?
• Do only paid stays count toward completing the challenge? Note that third-party bookings, such as Orbitz or Hotels.com normally do not count, and benefits do not normally apply when nights are not booked directly with the hotel brand.
• Is my current status matched to the new brand at the beginning of any required challenge period or after I complete the challenge?
• If I complete the challenge successfully, how long with my new status be extended? What date will it expire?
• Would a hotel-branded credit card give me the same elite-level status without completing a status challenge requiring a lot of paid stays?
• How often does this hotel brand grant members a status match or challenge? For example, is it limited to once in a lifetime, every 3 years, or every 5 years?
• Do I have many stays coming up at the brand with which I am requesting the match or challenge? Is this the best timing for the challenge if I can only do it once in a lifetime or every 5 years?

Hot Tip: Some hotel loyalty elite programs have been known to match granted elite status, such as the complimentary elite status that comes with your credit card. For example, The Platinum Card^® from American Express comes with Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold statuses that may be possible to match to other hotel elite programs. 

Final Thoughts

A hotel loyalty program status match or challenge can be a great opportunity to try out a new hotel brand without sacrificing the benefits you’ve previously earned with your current hotel brand.

Securing status via a status match or challenge can also be smart to have elite status in more than 1 hotel program as a backup when a preferred hotel brand is unavailable at your destination.

It’s noteworthy that status matches or challenges can come and go quickly, availability can disappear, and requirements can change.

Additionally, elite status challenges and matches are not unique to hotel loyalty programs — some airline frequent flyer programs offer the same type of elite status reciprocity. To learn more about matching your earned airline elite status with another airline, you’ll want to catch our comprehensive article on the topic.