IHG One Rewards allows members to transfer points between accounts, but a $5 fee applies for every 1,000 points unless you hold Diamond Elite status or are an active IHG Business Rewards member. This policy changed in December 2023, making free transfers available to a wider audience while also tightening yearly limits.
Understanding Transfer Limits and Fees
Most IHG One Rewards members pay a $5 fee per 1,000 points transferred. However, Diamond Elite and IHG Business Rewards members can transfer points fee-free. The maximum annual transfer is 100,000 points per account, with a limit of six transfers per calendar year. Recipients can receive up to 500,000 points annually.
To initiate a transfer, you must have been an IHG One Rewards member for at least 30 days. Transfers are processed within 72 hours, but typically occur within 24. Once transferred, points cannot be canceled or refunded. IHG reserves the right to discontinue this benefit at any time.
Why Transfer Points?
The ability to transfer points is most useful when you need to exceed the annual purchase limit (usually 200,000 points). Buying points during promotions can bring the cost down to 0.5 cents per point, making it a cost-effective way to accumulate rewards.
Another strategy involves transferring points to a travel companion who will maintain higher IHG elite status next year. By consolidating points in one account, you ensure continued benefits like free upgrades and bonus points. Finally, splitting points with a friend for a shared stay simplifies expense reconciliation.
How to Qualify for Fee-Free Transfers
Diamond Elite status requires 70 qualifying nights, 120,000 qualifying points, or $40,000 in annual spending on the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card. Alternatively, spending $75,000 on the Chase Sapphire Reserve® can unlock Diamond Elite status for the current and following year.
IHG Business Rewards members qualify for fee-free transfers by completing at least one “Business Rewards event” within the current or previous year. Membership is open to corporate bookers, travel agents, and individual travelers.
Transferring Points: Step-by-Step
- Visit the IHG One Rewards transfer page.
- Log in with your account details.
- Fill out the transfer form with the recipient’s information.
- Confirm the details and submit the request.
You will receive a confirmation email, and the points will be transferred within 72 hours.
Bottom line: Free IHG point transfers are a valuable perk for Diamond Elite and Business Rewards members. While fees apply for most users, the ability to consolidate points or exceed purchase limits makes this feature worthwhile for strategic loyalty program participants.
