Quick Points: Check transfer times before initiating point transfer requests

May 12, 2023

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3 min read

Quick Points: Check transfer times before initiating point transfer requests

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At TPG, we're all about maximizing the value of transferable points currencies like Chase Ultimate Rewards points and Capital One Venture miles. These point currencies offer the flexibility to transfer your points to various airline and hotel loyalty programs to secure award availability.

However, this option has a downside — transfer times can vary. And if the points you transfer from your credit card issuer to a frequent flyer program don't arrive in time, you may miss the chance to book your award redemption.

Transfer partners to watch out for

Air France Boeing 777-300ER business class — Flying Blue has a complimentary 72-hour hold policy for most award tickets. KYLE OLSEN/THE POINTS GUY

Generally, most point transfers from credit card issuers to loyalty programs are instantaneous. After transferring your points, you'll usually need to log out and back into your loyalty program account to see your points balance updated.

However, you should take note of longer transfer times. Here are some to be aware of:

American Express Membership Rewards

Aeromexico Club Premier: 24 hours.
ANA Mileage Club: 48 hours.
Avianca LifeMiles: <one hour.
Cathay Pacific Asia Miles: 48 hours.
Iberia Plus: 48 hours.
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer: <24 hours.

Bilt Rewards

American Airlines AAdvantage: Up to 24 hours.

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Capital One miles

Cathay Pacific Asia Miles: 24 hours.
EVA Infinity MileageLands: 36 hours.

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer: Should be the same day, but some readers have reported up to 7 days.

Citi ThankYou Rewards

EVA Infinity MileageLands: three days.
Qatar Privilege Club: two days.
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer: <24 hours.
Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles: one day.

Marriott Bonvoy

All partners: Between 24 hours and six weeks.

What you can do to increase the chances of securing a redemption

Whether you're looking to use the above transfer options or planning to transfer any of your credit card rewards to partners, there are a few concrete steps you can take to increase your chances of locking in a desired itinerary.

Review our Amex, Bilt, Capital One, Chase and Citi transfer time guides.
Put an award on hold if the loyalty program allows it — you'll usually need to call the program to do this.
Ensure the personal details on your credit card and loyalty accounts match precisely.

If none of these work and your points are delayed, consider purchasing the necessary airline or hotel points to secure your award as a last resort.

Related reading:

Featured image by PATRICK FALLON/THE POINTS GUY

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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