Elite status extended, when experts say we can travel again and more
Every Saturday, we round up the top miles, points and travel news that you might have missed on TPG this week. Here's what you need to know:
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Delta, United extend elite member status for an additional year
This is a big departure from the norm. These are the five aspects of extended status that TPG's Zach Honig is most excited about.
Related: Here's how to find last-minute flights home from Europe
When will we start traveling again? Airline policies may offer a clue
What we've seen this week has painted a grim picture for when airlines seem to expect travel to pick up again.
What credit score do you need in order to qualify for the Chase Sapphire Reserve?
You'll need a fairly strong credit score to get this popular card.
Travelers on these 21 cruise ships may have been exposed to coronavirus
If you've recently sailed with one of these 21 vessels, please self-quarantine immediately.
Small-business owners: TPG's ultimate guide to CARES Act
Everything you need to know about the complex stimulus bill for financial relief.
Dept. of Transportation to airlines: Customers are entitled to cash refunds for canceled flights
This has always been the policy, but enough airlines have tried to flout the mandate that the Department of Transportation had to restate the policy. In fact, airlines that were reluctant to pony up the cash are now being sued.
Related: See all of TPG's coronavirus coverage here
How much cash can U.S. airlines float? Between 4 months and a year, analysts say
Some airlines are faring better than others.
Should you renew your passport right now? For the right traveler, it's the perfect time
"This is the perfect time for most people to renew a passport that expires soon, since you aren't going right now and you can also beat the rush," says David Pacella, senior director for strategic partnerships at RushMyPassport.com.
Should you book Thanksgiving travel right now? Here's what we found
Our research shows far lower rates than usual. But whether or not it's safe to travel then remains yet to be seen, which is why we recommend only booking fully refundable travel.
TPG featured card
at Bilt's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 1X | Choose to earn up to 1X points on rent and mortgage payments with no transaction fee |
| 2X | Earn 2X points + the option to earn 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday purchases |
Pros
- Choice to earn up to 1 Bilt Point per dollar spent on rent and mortgage payments
- Elevated everyday earnings with both Bilt Points and the option to earn Bilt Cash
- $400 Bilt Travel Portal hotel credit per year (up to $200 biannually)
- $200 Bilt Cash annually
- Priority Pass membership
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Moderate annual fee
- Designed primarily for members seeking a premium, all-in-one card
- Earn points on housing with no transaction fee
- Choose to earn 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday spend. Use Bilt Cash to unlock point earnings on rent and mortgage payments with no transaction fee, up to 1X.
- 2X points on everyday spend
- $400 Bilt Travel Hotel credit. Applied twice a year, as $200 statement credits, for qualifying Bilt Travel Portal hotel bookings.
- $200 Bilt Cash (awarded annually). At the end of each calendar year, any Bilt Cash balance over $100 will expire.
- Welcome bonus (subject to approval): 50,000 Bilt Points + Gold Status after spending $4,000 on everyday purchases in the first 90 days + $300 of Bilt Cash.
- Priority Pass ($469/year value). See Guide to Benefits.
- Bilt Point redemptions include airlines, hotels, future rent and mortgage payments, Lyft rides, statement credits, student loan balances, a down payment on a home, and more.