Bilt Rewards cardholders who applied for the Bilt Palladium, Obsidian, or Blue Card by February 1st can now activate their new cards. This marks the completion of Bilt’s transition to its 2.0 platform, a move designed to streamline rewards and payment structures for its users.
Previously, Bilt operated with a Wells Fargo-backed Mastercard, but the company has since launched three distinct cards to better cater to various spending habits and reward preferences. The deadline to seamlessly transfer from the old card to one of the new options has passed, but applications for the Bilt Palladium, Obsidian, or Blue Cards are still open.
How to Activate Your Bilt 2.0 Card
Activating your card is a straightforward process. Users can do so either through the Bilt Rewards app or by scanning a QR code included with their physical card.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Open the Bilt Rewards app and tap “Activate Card” in the “Wallet” tab. Alternatively, scan the QR code from your mailer.
- Confirm your linked bank account for rent and mortgage payments. Under Bilt 2.0, housing payments will now be debited directly via ACH. Previously, these payments were charged against your credit limit.
- Activate the card by placing your phone on the back of it or by manually entering the CVC code.
- Select your preferred housing rewards structure: either 4% Bilt Cash on all purchases or up to 1.25 points per dollar spent on rent/mortgage, depending on non-housing spending.
Key Changes with Bilt 2.0
The transition to Bilt 2.0 brings significant changes. Housing payments are now processed directly via ACH, which means your rent or mortgage will be debited directly from your bank account rather than charged to your credit limit.
This change streamlines the rewards system, allowing cardholders to maximize earning potential on their largest monthly expense. The new structure also offers flexibility in how rewards are earned, with users able to choose between cash back or points based on their spending habits.
Current Promotions and Offers
Bilt is currently offering exclusive promotions for eligible cardholders:
- TPG Exclusive Offer: Cardholders who applied through The Points Guy’s link between January 14th and January 15th are eligible for 5x points on all purchases for the first five days (up to 50,000 points). This offer expires on February 12th.
- Welcome Bonuses: The Bilt Palladium Card offers 50,000 points and Gold status after $4,000 spent in the first three months, along with $300 in Bilt Cash upon approval. The Obsidian Card provides $200 in cash back, and the Blue Card offers $100.
Bilt Cash is now available for immediate use, with options to redeem for gift cards or transfer to other rewards programs. As of March, more redemption options will become available.
What Happens If You Didn’t Transition?
If you didn’t select a new Bilt 2.0 card, your original Wells Fargo-backed Bilt Mastercard has been converted into a no-annual-fee Wells Fargo Autograph® Card. This transition was completed on February 6th.
In conclusion: Bilt 2.0 is fully operational, offering users a streamlined rewards system and new card options. Activating your card now is the first step toward maximizing your rewards and taking full advantage of the benefits.
