Unlocking IHG Premier Card Perks Effortlessly
Link: Apply now for the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
When it comes to hotel loyalty programs, Chase and IHG have made sure they cover all the bases with their co-brand card portfolio. This lineup includes three credit cards:
- IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card – the no annual fee personal card.
- IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card – your premium co-brand personal card.
- IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card – a co-brand business solution.
The IHG Premier Card and IHG Premier Business Card boast a slew of enticing perks that make the annual fee a no-brainer for frequent travelers. Even if your loyalty doesn’t lie with IHG, the benefits are worth your consideration. But as with any good thing, there are caveats, so let’s break some of these down.
IHG Premier Card Perks & Benefits
Here’s what you should know about the welcome offers on these two cards:
- Until March 2025, the IHG Premier Card tempts you with a hefty 170,000 IHG points after spending $4,000 in just three months.
- The IHG Premier Business Card offers 140,000 IHG points for the same initial spend.
The bonuses are attractive, but the perks coming with these cards add unique value:
- A free night certificate on your card anniversary, eligible for any property costing up to 40,000 IHG points per night. And yes, you can add more points to book higher-priced options.
- The fourth-night-free deal on award stays. Redeem points for four nights, and only pay with points for three.
- An annual $50 United TravelBank credit.
- 20% off when purchasing IHG One Rewards points.
- IHG One Rewards Platinum status for cardholders.
- TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee credit every four years.
These perks feel like winning the loyalty jackpot, but how exactly do they function in practice?
Understanding the Fourth Night Free Benefit
One of the standout features of the IHG Premier Card is the fourth-night-free on award bookings. Confused about when the price reduction kicks in? Let’s clear that up.
The fourth night’s cost is subtracted when you make the booking. Visit IHG’s site, opt for an award booking, and bam! The prices will automatically reflect that benefit. The original cost will appear crossed out, revealing the sweet, discounted rate.
Just as an example, a hotel averaging 52,000 points per night might shrink to 38,750 points with your fourth night’s discount, costing a new total of 155,000 points. Neat, right?
Once active, you can use this perk as often as you like: back-to-back stays or multiple rooms, it’s game on. Just remember, four consecutive nights is the rule, no mixing two nights here and two nights there.
Can You Get Multiple Free Night Certificates?
Absolutely, you can stack those anniversary free night certificates. Both the IHG Premier Card and IHG Premier Business Card offer this perk annually. Get both cards and double your stash for those back-to-back hotel escapes.
If you’ve held onto the legacy IHG Select Card, dive into yet another free night. Opportunities to collect are everywhere!
Can You Stack the 20% Points Discount with a Sale?
The IHG Premier Card and IHG Premier Business Card offer a 20% discount on points purchases. If you’re dreaming of those juicy 75-100% bonus promotions from IHG, this 20% discount isn’t your best bet. Save your wallet for bigger sales.
The TSA PreCheck or Global Entry Credit
These cards cover the TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee every four years. Choose your poison—Global Entry or NEXUS—for a smoother travel experience. Just charge it to your card, and you’re set. Already covered? Pay for a friend or family.
When Does IHG Platinum Status Post?
As long as you’ve got the IHG Premier Card or IHG Premier Business Card, welcome to IHG One Rewards Platinum status. After linking your account, watch as that status posts automatically. Although the official word says six to eight weeks, it’ll likely show up sooner.
Visit historic Val Seny ski resort.
The $50 United TravelBank Cash
Enjoy up to $50 in United TravelBank cash each year:
- Receive $25 in cash credit by January 1 and again by July 1.
- Use it swiftly: Credits expire mid-month, after six months.
- Sign up once, then sit back and relax!
If you’re a frequent United flyer, this perk practically puts travel credit in your pocket annually.
The Bottom Line
The IHG Premier Card and IHG Premier Business Card certainly offer a variety of rewards. With upgrades to Platinum status, a complimentary fourth night, an annual free hotel night, and an extra $50 in travel credits—with or without IHG loyalty—you’ll find these cards worth the application.
Got any stories to share about your IHG Premier Card perks experience?