Elite status is a great thing to have if you are planning a hotel stay. Depending on your status, you can get things like early check-in, late check-out, free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and room upgrades.
In this post, I’m focusing on how to earn IHG elite status and the benefits of having that status.
IHG Hotels and Resorts
IHG Hotels & Resorts is a family of 16 different brands ranging from budget accommodations like Holiday Inn to luxury hotels including Kimpton, Intercontinental, and Six Senses.
The rewards program for all of these locations is called IHG Rewards Club. IHG Rewards Club points can be earned through hotel stays, spending on IHG branded credit cards, or transfers from Chase Ultimate Rewards.
IHG Rewards Elite Status Changes
The IHG Rewards elite status program is getting a makeover in March 2022. Until then you can earn IHG status through these reduced requirements:
Gold Elite: Earn 7,000 qualifying points or stay 7 nights
Platinum Elite: Earn 30,000 qualifying points or stay 30 nights
Spire Elite: Earn 55,000 qualifying points or stay 55 nights
Pro Tip: Chase Ultimate Rewards points transferred to IHG count as qualifying points for elite status.
Other Ways To Earn IHG Status
You’ll get automatic Platinum Elite status with the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card. This card also comes with these benefits.
- Earn 10x points at IHG hotels
- Earn 2x points at gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants
- Free yearly anniversary hotel night
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
How To Earn IHG Elite Status
Beginning in March 2022, the new IHG elite status tiers will be as follows:
IHG Rewards Elite Status Benefits
Unfortunately, we don’t know exactly what the IHG Rewards program will look like in March when the new program goes into effect.
However, the current elite status benefits are valid until March and will most likely be similar to the new program.
Member
This is the level you will receive just by joining IHG Rewards. Even if you don’t have plans to use IHG hotels a lot, it’s smart to sign up for the rewards program so you can earn and use IHG Rewards points.
Gold Elite
Here are the main benefits of having IHG Gold Elite Status.
- Complimentary internet
- Points won’t expire as long as you are an Elite member
- 10% bonus earning on your base points
Platinum Elite
Here are the main benefits of having IHG Platinum Elite Status.
- 50% bonus earning on your base points
- Complimentary room upgrade, when available
- Guaranteed room availability on paid stays
- Elite Rollover Nights: Any nights over the required amount will count towards the following year’s status
This status level automatically comes with the IHG Premier card.
Spire Elite
Here are the main benefits of having IHG Spire Elite Status.
- 100% bonus earning on your base points
- Early check-in
- Exclusive Choice Benefit once you receive your status (25,000 points)
Final Thoughts
While the IHG Rewards program doesn’t offer as many benefits as a program like World of Hyatt, it’s a great option because of IHG’s huge global footprint. Plus, mid-tier status is easily achievable from the IHG Premier card.
I’m looking forward to seeing what other changes will be happening when the new IHG Rewards program is officially implemented in March 2022.
