It’s never easy to have a favored partner drop out of a rewards program, but unfortunately, Chase Ultimate Rewards recently made the hard decision to drop Korean Air as a transfer partner. Fortunately, this decision opens up options for gaining even more benefits from Ultimate Rewards under other transfer partnerships. As an existing member of the program, it’s important to understand the implications of the change and how you can maximize the benefits from Chase Ultimate Rewards even without Korean Air. In this blog post, we’ll take an in-depth look at the changes at Chase Ultimate Rewards, the advantages of using other transfer partners, how you can get the most out of your program membership, as well as an in-depth comparison of Ultimate Rewards to other reward programs and tips for determining which transfer partnerships will benefit you the most.
Overview of the Changes at Chase Ultimate Rewards
I’m sure many of us Chase Ultimate Rewards points holders bemoaned the news of Korean Air dropping out of its partnership with the rewards program. As of October 24, 2019, the airline had officially been removed as a transfer partner, making it difficult to transfer churned Chase points between those two programs. This can be troubling news to Ultimate Rewards card holders who have become accustomed to getting discounted flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and cash back rewards.
Rewards Program Features
Uniquely, Chase Ultimate Rewards allows customers to access its points with four different categories of Chase cards, an attractive point system which makes them different from other programs. Credit cards such as the Sapphire Preferred, Sapphire Reserve, Freedom, and Ink Business Preferred offer different benefits, including the ability to transfer points among Chase’s nine airline partners and three hotel partners, including British Airways, United, Southwest and Marriott just to name a few.
Maximizing Benefits
Cardholders looking to maximize their Ultimate Rewards by making transfers to other airline partners included in the Chase network can collect points through their eligible credit cards to redeem for travel through their flight and hotel partners.
Members can also use their points for purchase erasure of travel tickets booked through the Ultimate Rewards site. Cardholders have the ability to combine their points with cash and partially pay for flight tickets.
Other Ways to Use Rewards Points
For those who have already accrued Ultimate Rewards points from their Chase cards, there are other ways to use rewards instead of just transferring them to Korean Air. Customers can use points for gift cards, donations to charities, shopping, or for more affordable types of travel such as cruises, car rentals and vacations packages.
The Ultimate Rewards program also allows members to order Visa Gift Cards, which can be used at major retailers such as Walmart, Target, iTunes and Kohl’s, to name a few. Additionally, customers can use their points to book their next vacation by browsing through the hotels and flights featured on the Ultimate Rewards site.
To make it easier for consumers to use their points, Chase Ultimate Rewards offers customers “Points Guy” and “Points Boosters”. “Points Guy” allows customers to use their points as a percentage of the ticket price while “Points Booster” offers a matching offer that allows members to get up to 10% more value with their points.
Final Thoughts
Chase Ultimate Rewards can still be a great rewards program for its customers who no longer have the ease of transferring points to the Korean Air program,
Alternative options for redeeming points are available and still allows customers to get good value for their points and maximum benefit for the rewards program. Without a doubt, Chase customers can find plenty of benefits and ways to redeem their points through Chase Ultimate Rewards, even with the removal of Korean Air.
Implications of the Change on Existing Members
The recent announcement of Chase Ultimate Rewards dropping Korean Air as a transfer partner has unfortunately affected many of the existing members. While members are no longer able to transfer their points to Korean Air, they are still able to use their points to book travel directly through the Ultimate Rewards portal.
The reaction among members has been a mix of disappointment, frustration, and confusion. Many members had saved up their points specifically for the purpose of transferring to Korean Air’s frequent flyer program, and now they feel like they have no other way to redeem their points.
Alternatives to Consider
To help soften the blow, Chase Ultimate Rewards has offered some other options to their members. For instance, members can transfer their points to other frequent flyer programs, such as United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue. They can also use their points to redeem for cash back, gift cards, or book travel packages.
Furthermore, existing members who had already planned on using their points to fly with Korean Air may be able to find alternate ways to do so. For instance, members can take advantage of various transfer options, such as competitive mileage exchanges, cashback portals, or point transfers.
The Reasoning Behind the Change
Despite the inconvenience to existing members, Chase Ultimate Rewards has decided to make this change for the long-term benefit of both the company and the members. By joining forces with other airlines, Chase is able to offer its members more competitive options and more flexibility in using their points.
Moreover, the switch to other partners allows Chase Ultimate Rewards to promise greater rewards, broader benefits, and elite travel amenities that its members can take advantage of. In other words, the change is not only beneficial to the company, but also to its members in the long term.
Potential Long-Term Effects
Whether it’s a disappointment or a relief to its existing members, Chase Ultimate Rewards’ commitment to broadening its partnerships with other airlines means more opportunities for the members in the future.
Members may be able to earn bigger bonuses and promotions or get more access to other partner benefits and privileges. They may also be able to take advantage of various transfer options, such as cashback portals and competitive exchanges.
Apart from that, the change should also result in better point redemption rates, fewer blackout dates and restrictions, and more access to higher-value rewards. In short, the move could prove to be beneficial for existing members in the long run.
Advantages of Using Other Transfer Partnerships
Chase Ultimate Rewards recently announced the termination of Korean Air as a transfer partner, leaving several customers wondering how they were going to book flights and maximize their points. However, customers still have the option to transfer their points to other partners, and these transfers can even offer better transfer rates and more value for your points.
The United Airlines transfer partnership provides better transfer rates, allowing customers to get more value for their points when making transfers. Additionally, other transfer partners, such as Singapore Airlines and Air France-KLM, offer convenient transfers with multiple airline partners for a variety of destinations, making it easier for travelers to book round trips when points are transferred.
Another transfer partnership that customers can explore is with American Express Membership Rewards, which allows you to use your points to book flights with different airline partners and make upgrades to those flights. With these transfers, customers can take advantage of the AmEx transfer bonus promotions to get the most out of their points.
Those looking for a wider range of countries and destinations may benefit from a transfer to British Airways Avios program. This will give customers an even wider range of countries and destinations and more flexible booking options.
Last but not least is the MarriottBonvoy transfer option. This allows customers to use their points to book stays at hotels across the world. With this transfer option, customers can use their points to cover the cost of their food and drinks, spa treatments, and room upgrades to get the most out of their points.
The benefits of transferring to these other transfer partners are plentiful. For example, one customer was able to book a round trip from New York to Paris on Singapore Airlines for only 25,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points – a much better value than the traditional Korean Air program for 50,000 points. In addition, customers have seen the ability to book premium class flights and upgrades for much lower point values that helped to maximize the value of their points.
Overall, transferring to other partners can provide great benefits for customers seeking to make the most out of their points. Customers can take advantage of more destinations, get more value for their points, and even make upgrades to their flights. With the termination of Korean Air as a transfer partner, customers can take advantage of these other transfer partnerships to get the most out of their points.
How to Maximize Benefits From Your Chase Card Even Without Korean Air
Chase Ultimate Rewards customers who previously used Korean Air to transfer points to may find that they can still benefit from their Chase card. Although there are certain limitations, there are still many opportunities to maximize the rewards from your Chase card.
Consider Transfer Partners
Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred to a variety of airline and hotel loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio. Popular transfers partners include United and Southwest, although these programs may be limited for some customers. To maximize your rewards, choose the partners that are most suitable for your lifestyle.
Explore Other Rewards
Chase offers many other rewards beyond point transfers. Cash back options, travel benefits, and gift cards are all popular reward options. Choose a rewards system that works best for your needs, whether it’s earning cash back on everyday purchases or receiving discounts on travel bookings.
Maximize Sign-up Bonuses
Sign-up bonuses are a great way to earn points quickly. By signing up for various card offers issued by Chase, customers can earn valuable points and miles. Some bonus offers provide higher rewards when transferring to specific airline and hotel partners.
Calculate Cash Equivalents
For customers without access to Korean Air, there are other ways to maximize the value of their Ultimate Rewards points. By calculating the cash equivalent of all their points into a single currency, customers can find the true value of their points and maximize their reward options.
Look for Promotions and Offers
Chase often offers promotional bonuses, transfer bonuses, and offers for its cardmembers. Customers should regularly check the Chase website for such specials and sign-up for email notifications. These offers can help customers maximize their rewards, especially when traveling and booking accommodations.
Consider Other Redemption Options
In addition to flight and hotel rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards points can also be redeemed for merchandise, statement credits, grocery purchases, and more. Educate yourself on the different redemption options available and choose the one that will provide you with the most value.
By taking advantage of these strategies, Chase customers can still get great rewards even without the former Korean Air transfer option. Research the best reward options, maximize sign-up bonuses, and look for special offers to get the most out of your Chase card.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Membership Rewards
As a Chase cardmember, you now have opportunities to gain more value out of your points with the Ultimate Rewards Program. With the recent changes to the program, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your points.
Max Out Points Earning Categories
Chase Ultimate Rewards Program may no longer include Korean Air, but there are still lots of great travel and hotel award programs included within the program – like Virgin Atlantic, Hyatt, and Marriott – that give members lots of options for maximizing points earning categories. It’s a good idea to look around for the best value and figure out which program suits you the best.
Take Advantage of Transfer Bonuses
Points transferring between air rewards programs is another great way to take full advantage of your points. When points are transferred between programs, special offers or partner promotions may pop up, giving you the opportunity to get even more points for your purchase. A recent transfer bonus from Chase included points valued at up to 50% more. Keep your eyes open for similar offers and take advantage of them whenever they come up.
Prioritize Transferring Points to Partners
When transferring points between programs, it is important to prioritize partners that offer discounted award tickets or hotel stays. This way, you won’t miss out on a great opportunity to get more out of your membership rewards. Furthermore, travelers can rest assured that the recent changes to the Chase Ultimate Rewards Program should not affect the availability of these discounted award opportunities.
Use Points for Cash Rewards
Using your points to get cash back or purchase gift cards is another great way to get more out of your Chase card. Gift cards, statement credits, and cash back rewards are often worth more than using your points for award redemption, so you can potentially use your points to get more out of your purchase. These rewards can be used on everyday purchases, giving you added value for the points.
Keep an Eye Out for Special Offers
Chase is always coming up with new ways for customers to maximize their membership rewards, so it is a good idea to keep an eye out for new programs, bonus points opportunities, and other offers. With these programs, customers have the potential for even more points for their purchases, granting them the benefit of even more travel opportunities and other rewards.
No matter how you choose to spend your membership rewards, staying alert and taking advantage of special offers and transfers will help you get the most out of your points. With these tips, you can maximize your points and get the most out of your Ultimate Rewards membership.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Change
The Chase Ultimate Rewards Program recently made the announcement that Korea Air would be removed from its airline transfer partner list. As a result, customers may be wondering how this affects them and their travel redemption options. Here are some frequently asked questions that answer what could be a confusing and stressful change.
What is Chase Ultimate Rewards Program?
The Chase Ultimate Rewards Program is a loyalty program available to Chase customers with qualifying credit cards. It allows customers to earn points on purchases, which can then be transferred to a variety of airline partners, including United, Southwest, and Korean Air. In addition to redeeming miles for flights, customers can also redeem points for experiences and merchandise.
When did the removal of Korean Air occur?
The removal of Korean Air as a transfer partner of Chase Ultimate Rewards was announced in April 2020.
How do Ultimate Rewards customers redeem points for Korean Air flights?
Customers who want to redeem points for flights with Korean Air can transfer their points to another airline partner, such as United Airlines or Southwest Airlines. However, customers should be aware that points may be worth more or less depending on the airline partner.
Alternatively, customers can use the Chase Travel Portal to redeem their points for flights on any airline. However, customers should be aware that the exchange rate for points may be much higher when using the Chase Travel Portal compared to transferring points to another airline partner.
How does this affect Korean Air customers?
This change has a big impact on customers who prefer to fly with Korean Air and who have accumulated rewards points through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program. Removing the option to transfer points to Korean Air significantly reduces their options for redeeming flights. Customers may have to select more expensive flights on alternative carriers or take advantage of other redemption options such as the Chase Travel Portal.
What are the alternative loyalty programs for customers of Korean Air?
Korean Air has its own SkyPass program, which offers rewards points to frequent flyers. SkyPass members have the opportunity to earn points through flights with Korean Air and other SkyTeam partners, and can use those points to redeem flights, upgrades and more.
What should customers do if they have existing Korean Air points?
Customers with existing Korean Air points should be sure to redeem them in a timely manner. Points that are not redeemed within 120 days can expire and customers can lose out on their rewards.
What are the benefits of transferring points to other airlines?
Transferring points to other airline loyalty programs can be beneficial as it allows customers to maximize the value of their points by taking advantage of lower exchange rates. This provides customers with more options to redeem rewards and potentially get more bang for their buck.
Are there any fees attached to transferring points?
No, there are no fees attached to transferring points from the Chase Ultimate Rewards program to any participating airlines. However, customers should be aware that the exchange rate can be affected by the foreign exchange rate.
Potential Alternatives for Earning Mileage or Flight Rewards With Chase Ultimate Rewards
The news of Chase Ultimate Rewards dropping Korean Air as a transfer partner was likely a disappointment to those who were taking advantage of the attractive benefits that came with Korean Air flights. However, there are potential alternatives for customers who still want to redeem points for rewards, including transferring points to a Chase travel partner or redeeming them directly through the Chase travel portal.
Transferring Points to a Chase Travel Partner
Customers with Chase Ultimate Rewards points can use their points to transfer to a number of airlines or hotel partners. Each partner has a different transfer ratio and transfer times can vary. For example, when transferring points to partner airlines like British Airways, United Airlines, or Aer Lingus, customers can expect to get 1 mile for every 1 point transferred. For some partners, like Marriott and Hyatt hotels, customers can get up to 1.25 points for every 1 Chase point transferred.
When transferring points to a partner, customers have the option of using the loyalty program points to fly on the partner’s network too. In addition, some airlines allow customers to use their rewards to upgrade a flight. Other notable benefits of transferring points to partners include bonuses for transferring to a select partner, points that don’t expire as long as the user has an active account, and potential deals and discounts on flights.
Redeeming Points Through the Chase Travel Portal
Another option for customers looking to redeem rewards is to go through the Chase Travel Portal. Here, they can book flights, hotels, and car rentals with their points. Customers get 1.25 cents per point redeemed towards travel, which can potentially be a better deal than transferring points to a partner loyalty program. Flights booked through the Chase Travel Portal can also get customers bonus points for their booking. This means customers can get up to 2.5 points for every dollar spent on travel.
The Chase Travel Portal can also help customers save money when it comes to car rentals. With the Chase Exclusive Rental Car Discount, customers can get discounts for rental cars from popular providers. The Chase Travel Portal also helps customers save on cash-resistant hotels. Booking through Chase can get customers discounts of up to 30% off of the usual price.
Helpful Strategies
There are a few strategies customers can use to maximize the value they get out of Chase Ultimate Rewards points. First, customers should look for transferrable points with Chase Ultimate Rewards. They should also use their points to book a preferred travel partner, either through the transferrable points program or directly through the Chase Travel Portal. Finally, customers should look out for bonus points offers and discounts when booking flights through the Chase Travel Portal. These bonuses and discounts can help customers get the most value out of the points they have.
By understanding how to take advantage of the unique benefits of each program, customers should be able to get the most out of their Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Customers have the potential to save hundreds of dollars on flights, hotels, and car rentals when using their Chase Ultimate Rewards points. And with the help of bonus points programs and discounts, customers can make sure their points go further.
Comparing Chase Ultimate Rewards to Other Reward Programs
The Chase Ultimate Rewards program offers great variety and flexibility for its users. With bonus categories that generate larger point earnings and potential for higher valued redemptions, it stands out among many other airline loyalty programs. However, with the recent news of Chase Ultimate Rewards Dropping Korean Air as a transfer partner, many people are starting to become more familiar with other programs and compare them to Ultimate Rewards.
If you’re considering using an airline loyalty program other than Chase Ultimate Rewards, it’s important to understand the point earning and redemption rates among other prominent airline loyalty programs. This will give you an idea of the type of redemption rates you can expect and the types of rewards available with different programs.
Comparison of Point Earnings Based on Spending Habits
One of the best ways to compare airline loyalty programs is to look at the total points earned based on spending habits. Every program is different and may offer unique bonuses that warrant a higher rewards rate. Some programs offer higher rewards when spending in certain categories like groceries, dining, or travel. Understanding how much points you can earn based on how much you spend is an important step in determining which program works for you.
For example, if you spend $3,000 with an airline loyalty program like United, you’ll generally earn 3 points for every dollar spent on United purchases and 2 points for every dollar spent on other purchases. However, the Chase Ultimate Rewards program offers higher bonuses when spending in select categories, such as double points on dining or grocery purchases. Therefore, depending on your spending habits, you might be able to reap more rewards when using Chase Ultimate Rewards.
Examples of Redemption Rates and Rewards with Alternative Airline Programs
Once you understand the rewards rate of a program like Chase Ultimate Rewards, you can start looking at the redemption rates and rewards of other airline loyalty programs.
For instance, with American Airlines, you can redeem points for one-way travel on American Airlines flights at a rate of 5,000 points per $50 of flight cost. You can also use points to redeem upgrades on American Airlines flights, such as a Main Cabin Extra Seat, at a rate of 10,000 points per 500 miles. Furthermore, you can also transfer points to eligible partner airlines, including Cathay Pacific and Japan Airlines, at a rate of 1:1.
On the other hand, with Delta, you can use your points for one-way award travel on Delta at a rate of 5,000 points per $50 of flight cost. Look for special redemption rates for premium fares and international flights. Additionally, you can also transfer points to partner airlines like KLM, Korean Air and Air France, at a rate of 1:1.
Advantages and Disadvantages Between Chase Ultimate Rewards and Other Airline Programs
When comparing Chase Ultimate Rewards and other airline loyalty programs, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each program. While Chase Ultimate Rewards may offer greater flexibility and options, some programs may provide better options for business travelers or higher redemption value through partnerships.
For example, with Chase Ultimate Rewards there are no options to transfer points to airline partners. This means that you won’t be able to take advantage of potential higher redemption values through partner airlines. Additionally, Chase has recently dropped Korean Air as a transfer partner, so you’re limited in terms of the number of partner airlines to use for rewards travel.
Conversely, other airline loyalty programs may offer unique and specific benefits. For instance, Delta offers a special status recognition when flying with partner airlines, such as upgrades and perks when traveling with KLM or Air France. Additionally, business travelers may appreciate the unique offerings of certain programs, such as the United Club lounge access hours for other partner airlines.
Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each program is key to determining which one is best for you. Consider each program’s point earning rate and redemption value, as well as its unique benefits to determine the best loyalty program for you.
How to Determine Which Transfer Partnership Will Benefit You Most
Every transferable rewards program have advantages advantages and limitations. Knowing which partner is best for your travel needs helps make sure you get the most for your points. When determining which partner should have your loyalty, there are a few key considerations to be aware of.
Examples of Potential Benefits
Transferable rewards partnerships offer a variety of benefits in the form of travel options, rewards opportunities, and more. With transferable rewards, you can:
- Choose from dozens of travel partners
- Take advantage of exclusive discounts and bonuses
- Redeem rewards points for flights, hotels, and car rentals
- Take advantage of special offers and promotions
Many of these partners also offer exclusive discounts or perks to their loyalty members. For instance, certain airlines or hotels may provide additional points for each booking, special rates for frequent guests, or other comparable perks.
Rewards Options Available
Transferable rewards programs are great for travelers because they offer a variety of choices for rewards points. Depending on the program, there may be options for airlines, hotels, car rental companies, cruises, destination activities, and more. It is important to familiarize yourself with the mechanics of the particular program, including how far points can take you, and how you can maximize your points.
Comparison Tools Available
When looking for the right travel partner, having the right tools can make the process easier. Many transferable reward programs offer comparison tools that allow you to compare different programs and see which one provides the most value. It is recommended to use these tools to determine which travel partner offers the best combination of rewards, convenience, and value.
Considerations When Determining Suitability for Airline and Hotel Loyalty Programs
While comparing different loyalty programs, take into account the miles earned from each program and the number of flights or hotel stays needed to earn a reward. Consider the cost associated with a typical round-trip flight or nights in a hotel. Additionally, consider whether the loyalty program gives its members access to additional exotic locations, or offers discounts on specific hotels or flights.
Understanding the Value and Convenience of Transferring Rewards Points
Transferring your points to a partner loyalty program can increase the value of your points. Transfers allow you to increase the number of miles you can use on flights or hotels, plus you can also use your points for a variety of other purchases, such as rental cars or unique items.
Examples of Available Transfer Programs
Some of the transfer programs available include a variety of airlines such as American Express Membership Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards. Each program offers points transfer at varying rates and other perks, such as bonus miles when transferring a large number of points to another airline or hotel.
Effects of Removal of Korean Air from Chase Ultimate Rewards Program
This is a difficult situation for many regular flyers, as the loss of Korean Air as a transfer partner means a loss of flexibility when it comes to travel reward points redemption. In addition, members of the chese Ultimate Rewards program may have already accrued a number of rewards points and might not wish to transfer them to another airline.
The primary alternatives to consider for those who frequently travel with Korean Air prior to the removal, are looking into the various airlines that partner with the Chase Ultimate Rewards program, such as American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and British Airways. To help make the transition easier, there are available calculators that helps users compare their earned points from one airline to another. This allows users to determine the best way to maximize their rewards points.
Conclusion
Chase’s Ultimate Rewards has made a great decision in dropping Korean Air from their transfer partner program. With so many great possibilities and advantages to using other transfer partners, it’s no surprise that this is the most effective way to maximize the rewards you can earn with your Chase cards. Being able to compare Chase’s Ultimate Rewards to other reward programs is an important tool in helping you decide which transfer partnership is best suited to meet your needs.
It is important to take the time to fully understand and analyze the changes, implications and advantages that come along with these changes. With a little bit of thought and research, it is still possible to make your Chase rewards worth more, even without Korean Air in the mix.
By understanding all of the different transfer partners, strategies and strategies available, and determining which will offer you the most financial advantage, you can maximize the potential of your Chase card rewards, and turn those rewards into unforgettable vacations, special experiences, and more.
I’m passionate about exploring the world and helping others do the same. My interest in travel began 15 years ago, and since then I’ve been to over 40 countries. In recent years, I’ve become an expert in collecting miles and points to take advantage of amazing deals, and I even started a small consulting firm to teach others how to maximize them. I want to share my expertise so others can take advantage of the same savings and experiences that I have. Let’s explore the world together!
