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HOTEL EXPIRATION & BOOKING RULES
Do IHG One Rewards Points Expire? Policy & Rules
Everything you need to know about IHG One Rewards point expiration timelines, qualifying activity rules, 4-year hard caps, cancellation windows, and fee schedules.
IHG One Rewards Expiration & Cancellation Summary
Expiration Policy
For non-elite members, points expire after 12 months of inactivity; for IHG Platinum (or higher) elite members, points do not expire
Cancellation Window
24-48 hour cancellation window depending on property. Points always returned even for late cancellations; one-night cash penalty applies. Points + Cash: points returned, cash portion non-refundable. No elite cancellation benefits
Change & Refund Fees
$0 USD
5 Ways to Prevent IHG One Rewards Points from Expiring
- Swipe a Co-Branded Card: Any purchase on an affiliated credit card generates points activity that resets your clock.
- Transfer Points: Transfer 1,000 points from a flexible credit card partner to trigger fresh account activity.
- Shop or Dine with Partners: Make a small purchase through the loyalty program's shopping or dining portal.
- Complete a Paid Stay or Flight: Even a 1-night inexpensive stay will generate qualifying activity.
- Redeem a Small Reward: Redeeming a fraction of points for a gift card or minor award also counts as activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about IHG One Rewards redemption value, transfer rules, and policies:
Do IHG One Rewards points expire?
For non-elite members, points expire after 12 months of inactivity; for IHG Platinum (or higher) elite members, points do not expire
What counts as qualifying activity to keep IHG One Rewards points active?
Qualifying activities include earning points via co-branded credit card spend, completing an eligible stay/flight, transferring points from a partner, using a dining/shopping portal, or purchasing points.
What is the cancellation policy on IHG One Rewards award bookings?
24-48 hour cancellation window depending on property. Points always returned even for late cancellations; one-night cash penalty applies. Points + Cash: points returned, cash portion non-refundable. No elite cancellation benefits
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