The Points Tool You've Always Wanted

United Airlines has made changes to both earning and redeeming miles, placing a greater emphasis on holding a co-branded credit card. Cardmembers (above the Gateway card) will earn more miles on paid flights and receive a 10% discount on award bookings, while elite members receive a 15% discount. Cardmembers and elite members will also have expanded access to Polaris business class saver awards. United is clearly incentivizing co-branded card ownership, so if you frequently redeem miles for United flights and don’t currently hold one, it may be worth considering.

Rakuten is offering an additional $150 for applying for the Bank of America Travel Rewards card or $75 for the Customized Cash card, stacking with each card’s standard welcome offer. The Travel Rewards card currently offers 25,000 points after $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days, while the Customized Cash card offers $200 after the same spend requirement. Neither card ranks highly on our list, but if you value Rakuten earnings through Amex Membership Rewards or Bilt, this can be an easy way to pick up extra points across multiple programs.

American Express is ending its partnership with Etihad Guest on June 30, 2026. Transfers will still be available through June 29, 2026. This isn’t a major loss, as Etihad has few sweet spots and a less favorable cancellation policy, and you can still transfer to Etihad through Bilt, Capital One, and Citi.

Atmos Rewards Visa Business is offering 80,000 points after spending $5000 in 3 months. That’s up 20,000 points over their standard offer of 60,000 points, which requires $4000 in 3 months. The annual fee is $70. The elevated offer also includes a $99 Companion Fare.