Originally Posted by
pacheco18
Points are not equivalent to money in the bank. I'm sure we all remember the old days when you could get a business class ticket to Europe for 57,500 points on AA, 75000 or less on United or a business class ticket on Delta for fewer then 400000 miles.
Dying with points is not a good idea either. They die with you. When my husband passed away, I rushed to convert his points to gift cards - my only option other than donation. Thankfully he did not have many points. The cost of transfer was not worth it.
I just spoke to another Chase rep. My CSR renews Sept 1. I am charging a few booked trips for 2026 early before that date and then downgrading to the CSP. 2 points on travel seems to be the best I can do and keep United transfers. We take several very expensive trips every year and I book more than a year out so the 3x travel was key. The rep saw no evidence that the 2x on travel is going to disappear.
I have looked at every other card -- Capital One,Wells Fargo and I cannot find a better option. I got rid of Amex platinum years ago. I welcome any suggestion.
If your card renews September 1 at the old $550 fee why wouldn't you just keep it for another year until Sep 2026? That gives you more time to use any existing points balances at 1.5 x and possibly take advantage of any points boost opportunities. You might even find a coupon or two worth excercising for credit. You can still move any travel expenses that don't qualify for 3% to other cards during the time before Sep 2026 renewal. Once 2026 comes and the new fee hits then make a decision on the card.