Do Southwest points expire every year?

No, Southwest Rapid Rewards points generally do not expire. This is a significant advantage of the program, ensuring your earned points remain available for future travel without any concern for an annual expiration date or inactivity.

Understanding Southwest Rapid Rewards Point Expiration Policy

Southwest Airlines offers a highly flexible loyalty program where your Rapid Rewards points do not expire. Once you earn them, they are yours to keep until you choose to redeem them for flights or other eligible rewards. This consumer-friendly policy sets Southwest apart from many other airline loyalty programs that often impose expiration dates based on account inactivity or a fixed period. This means members can accumulate points over an extended time, saving them for big trips without the pressure of an impending deadline.

Earning and Maximizing Your Rapid Rewards Points

Southwest offers many opportunities to earn Rapid Rewards points, making it easy to build up your point balance. These include:

• Flying with Southwest: Earn points based on the fare type and cost of your flights.
• Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cards: Co-branded credit cards allow you to earn points on everyday purchases, often accompanied by generous sign-up bonuses.
• Shopping and Dining Partners: Earn bonus points by shopping with participating retailers or dining at eligible restaurants.
• Hotel and Rental Car Partners: Convert points from partner loyalty programs or earn points directly on hotel stays and car rentals.

The ability to earn points through diverse channels, combined with their non-expiring nature, provides members with exceptional flexibility in how and when they plan their travel.

Benefits of Non-Expiring Points

The policy of non-expiring points offers several distinct advantages for Southwest Rapid Rewards members:

• Unmatched Flexibility: You can plan your travel without the rush to use points before they disappear, allowing for spontaneous trips or long-term savings for dream vacations.
• Accumulation for Big Trips: Points can be accumulated over years, enabling you to save for more expensive flights or multiple trips.
• Peace of Mind: There's no need to track expiration dates, engage in qualifying activities, or worry about losing your hard-earned rewards.

This user-friendly approach makes Southwest Rapid Rewards a highly attractive program for frequent and occasional travelers alike. For more details on the program, you can refer to comprehensive guides such as the Southwest Rapid Rewards guide by NerdWallet.