We're nearing decision time for current Bilt Mastercard® cardholders.
Later this week, Bilt Rewards will officially roll out information on the loyalty program's three new credit cards, called Bilt Card 2.0 and issued by Cardless. Current cardholders will have just over two weeks to evaluate their 2.0 options and make a choice before the Wells Fargo-backed Bilt Mastercard is retired in February.
There are a few key dates to keep in mind as this transition gets underway. Soon, you'll have the opportunity to product change to one of the new cards, or you'll see your current Bilt Mastercard replaced by the no-annual-fee Wells Fargo Autograph® Card (see rates and fees).
It's important to note that current Bilt cardholders do not have to take immediate action. Rather, your window to make a choice is opening soon — this Wednesday, to be exact — and you will have until Jan. 30 to make a decision.
Here's a breakdown of the key dates and what you can expect throughout the next few weeks.
The information for the Bilt Mastercard has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Jan. 14: Bilt Card 2.0 launches, decision window opens
On Wednesday, Bilt will officially announce full details on its suite of new cards. While rumors have been circulating about the cards' details, we know for certain that there will be three versions available at different annual fee thresholds:
- No annual fee
- $95
- $495
According to rumors, the new cards will earn Bilt Points on rent and mortgage payments and Bilt Cash on everyday spending. The cards with annual fees feature more bonus categories and some Bilt Travel credits. The higher the annual fee, the more benefits you can receive.
Starting Jan. 14, Bilt cardholders can make their selection at bilt.com/card or through the Bilt app.
You don't have to make your decision on the first day that details are launched, since you'll have until Jan. 30 to select a new Bilt card.
Related: Bilt Rewards: 3 new cards, points on mortgage payments coming soon
Jan. 30: Final day to select a new Bilt card
Jan. 30 is the last day current cardholders can opt in for a seamless transition from their old card to a new one.
If you don't make a selection by this date, your Wells Fargo-backed Bilt Mastercard will be automatically converted to the Wells Fargo Autograph Card. The Autograph card has no annual fee, but it will not include a welcome bonus for converted cardholders.
To learn more about the Wells Fargo Autograph, read our full review.
You could also choose to close your Bilt/Wells Fargo account and opt not to transition to a new Bilt Card 2.0, which would end your Bilt card membership altogether. You'll still be able to use the Bilt Rewards ecosystem, however, even if you don't have a Bilt card.
Even after the selection deadline, you won't be able to use your new Bilt Card 2.0 immediately.
Key considerations
Bilt released some important details to help current cardholders make their choice:
- You will have the option to automatically transfer your balance from your old Bilt Mastercard to your new Bilt Card 2.0. If you do not automatically transfer your balance to a Bilt Card 2.0 option, you can access statements and make payments on your balance by visiting wellsfargo.com or calling 833-404-2272.
- You will have the option to close your old Wells Fargo account if you choose to open a new Bilt Card 2.0.
- You will maintain the same card number if you choose to open a new Bilt Card 2.0.
- Apple Pay and Google Pay will automatically refresh with new Bilt Card 2.0 details after you upgrade.
- You will be able to choose a new card without a hard inquiry showing up on your credit report.
Related: I checked out Bilt's new Home Away from Home hotel collection — here's what you need to know
Feb. 6: Your last day to use your old Bilt Mastercard
Feb. 6 is the last day you can use the old Bilt Mastercard.
Current cardholders will soon be able to use either their new Bilt Card 2.0 or converted Wells Fargo Autograph Card instead.
Feb. 6 is also the date cardholders can expect to have their new Bilt Card 2.0 or Autograph card in hand, so they're ready to be used on the next day: activation day.
Related: Should you pay your rent with Bilt? We crunch the numbers
Feb. 7: Your new Bilt Card 2.0 or converted Autograph card activates, and your old Bilt Mastercard is retired
The new age for Bilt card membership begins Feb. 7. Your new Bilt Card 2.0 or Wells Fargo Autograph Card will be ready to use Feb. 7.
This is also the day digital wallets will update with new card details.
On Feb. 7, the old Bilt Mastercard issued by Wells Fargo will no longer work.
Related: Bilt Rewards will let you pay your rent with more credit cards — is it worth it?
Bottom line
Current Bilt Mastercard holders will have just over two weeks to decide whether they'll choose to add one of three new Bilt cards issued by Cardless, or see their old Bilt Mastercard transition into a Wells Fargo Autograph Card.
You don't have to make a choice as soon as the window opens Jan. 14, but you need to remember that Jan. 30 is the last day you can decide and have your card details seamlessly transitioned by Bilt.
You will be able to use your Bilt Card 2.0 or converted Autograph card by Feb. 7.
Related: Bilt Cash launches: How to earn and redeem the new rewards currency
