What to Do With Expiring Loyalty Points
Millions of loyalty points expire unused in Canada every year. If your balance is at risk, here are your options — including selling them for cash.
Expiry Policies Vary by Program
Each Canadian loyalty program handles point expiry differently. Aeroplan effectively eliminated expiry for active members in 2020, but your account can still be closed after 18 months of inactivity. Marriott Bonvoy points expire after 24 months without qualifying activity. Amex Membership Rewards are the most urgent — points vanish immediately if you cancel your card, with no grace period.
Aeroplan
No expiry if active. Account closed after 18 months of inactivity.
Amex MR
Points expire immediately upon card cancellation. No grace period.
Marriott Bonvoy
Points expire after 24 months of account inactivity.
Your Options Before Points Expire
Depending on the program, you can extend your balance through small earning or redeeming activity, transfer points to a partner program, redeem for travel or merchandise, or sell your points for cash through a Canadian broker. Selling is often the fastest option when time is short — especially for Amex MR holders who are cancelling a card.
Extend Expiry
Small purchases or redemptions can reset the inactivity clock for Aeroplan and Marriott.
Transfer to Partners
Move points to airline or hotel partners before they expire (transfer ratios vary).
Redeem for Travel
Book flights or hotel stays to use your balance before expiry hits.
Sell for Cash
Convert points to Canadian dollars via Interac e-Transfer within 48 hours.
Related Guides
Loyalty Points Expiring? Here Are Your Options
A comprehensive look at what happens when loyalty points expire and the steps you can take to protect your balance across all major Canadian programs.
Read guideMarriott Bonvoy Points Expiring — What to Do
Marriott Bonvoy has a 24-month inactivity rule. Learn how to check your expiry date, extend your points, or sell them for cash before it is too late.
Read guideWhen Is the Best Time to Sell Loyalty Points?
Timing matters when selling points. This guide covers seasonal trends, program devaluations, and situations where selling sooner is better than waiting.
Read guideSelling vs. Redeeming Aeroplan Points
Should you redeem your Aeroplan points for flights or sell them for cash? A side-by-side comparison to help you decide which option delivers more value.
Read guideFrequently Asked Questions About Point Expiry
Points Expiring Soon?
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