It has come as a surprise to many that Choice forfeited their points amid the pandemic after two extensions back in 2020.
Two friends contacted me this week who were unaware that Choice Privileges points expire 18 months after the last activity, and the extensions didn’t change this, as we pointed out twice.
You can access Choice Privileges here.
READ MORE: Choice Privileges Rate & Bonus Points And Miles Offers
Many programs have waived and continue to waive the points expiry because travel is still highly discouraged, if not banned, in many countries that they operate.
However, Choice’s points expiry waiver expired on December 31, 2020, and if you hadn’t had activity for 18 months, your account was wiped clean on January 1st this year.
The points have continued to expire ever since based on the last activity in your account, and many have been caught with this.
A friend of mine, who contacted the Choice’s regular customer service, was offered the reinstatement of half of the points.
When he called another “escalation” number, 1-888-770-6800, the points were back in his account instantaneously.
Points Expiry Reminder:
Reminder: Choice Privileges Points Expire On January 1, 2021, If No Activity
Conclusion
I am sure that many are surprised to find out their points and miles accounts zeroed when they are again ready to travel, and not only with Choice Privileges.
It is unclear if Choice continues to reinstate points for members whose accounts they have wiped clean or if they are only during it case by case basis.
You really need to pay careful attention to the expiry dates, and I did end up converting all my Choice points to Alaska Airlines miles rather than letting them expire.