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Quick Hits: 1 Million Miles Giveaway, Earning Points for your Payroll is Back, and More!

In this episode of Quick Hits, DeAndre Coke unpacks the latest developments in the points and miles space—from sweepstakes to shocking benefit changes. He highlights a massive 1 million-mile Capital One sweepstakes in partnership with The Points Guy, as well as a record-high 175,000-point welcome offer from American Express. DeAndre also explains how it looks like ZilMoney is back with the ability to process credit cards for payroll, after a long awaited hiatus.

But it’s not all good news: DeAndre breaks down the loss of the 35% rebate on the Amex Business Platinum and previews a major overhaul coming to Amex cards this fall. He also outlines current transfer bonuses between programs, such as Amex-Hilton, Chase-Marriott, and Avios, and provides practical advice on when these transfers make sense. It’s a fast, insightful roundup of what’s happening now in the rewards world—and what savvy travelers should watch out for next.

 

Learn more about how processing a credit card for payroll works here



Key takeaways: 

  • Capital One Sweepstakes: The Points Guy is giving away 1 million Capital One miles to one lucky winner.
  • Historic Amex Offer: Amex Personal Platinum is offering a record-high 175,000-point welcome bonus.
  • Business Platinum Downgrade: Starting September 18, the 35% Pay with Points rebate will be limited to your selected U.S. airline.
  • Amex Card Refresh Coming: A major overhaul for Platinum and Business Platinum cards is expected this fall, likely including higher annual fees.
  • Transfer Bonus – Amex to Hilton: Up to 25% bonus on transfers, boosting the typical 1:2 ratio to 1:2.5.
  • No Hard Pull on Amex Apps: You can view approval status and bonus offers without triggering a hard credit pull.
  • More Amex Changes Coming: Expect more statement credits, added complexity, and potential card design updates.



🎉 Enter the 1 Million Miles Giveaway from The Points Guy and Capital One



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Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast!

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

About the Podcast

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Revolutionizing Your Journey: Travel With Points & Miles
Revolutionizing Your Journey: Travel With Points & Miles

About your host

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DeAndre Coke

DeAndre Coke is a financial advisor and avid traveler with a passion for helping others explore the world affordably and luxuriously. Ranked by Forbes as one of Virginia’s top financial security professionals for two consecutive years, DeAndre brings his strategic mindset to his travel pursuits. Together with his fiancée, Taryn, he navigates the world of points and miles, uncovering the secrets of award travel to share with his audience.