The Bilt Rewards Credit Card has emerged as an innovative option for those looking to earn valuable points while paying their rent. As a no-fee card specifically tailored for renters, it offers an opportunity to gain rewards for monthly rent payments and other activities. This makes it a particularly interesting choice for those who want to make the most of their current living situation.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits and features of the Bilt Rewards Credit Card. We will discuss how the card has evolved since its inception and how it has simplified its earnings structure to better serve its users. Additionally, we’ll examine the potential value the card can bring to renters, from earning bonus points through leasing activities to benefits within the Bilt Rewards Alliance.
It’s time to explore whether the Bilt Rewards Credit Card is the right fit for you, so you can make informed decisions about how to maximize your rewards and optimize your overall financial strategy. Remember, the key to finding the best credit card is selecting one that aligns with your specific needs and goals, and the Bilt Rewards card may be the perfect solution for many renters out there seeking practical advantages.
Bilt Credit Card Overview
Bilt Mastercard
The Bilt Mastercard is a unique credit card that caters to renters and future homebuyers. It allows cardholders to earn rewards points on rent payments without any fees. Moreover, it offers additional rewards on dining, travel, and other expenses.
World Elite Mastercard
As a World Elite Mastercard, Bilt cardholders enjoy various benefits, such as travel protection, concierge service, and access to exclusive offers and experiences. This added advantage makes the Bilt Mastercard a competitive choice among the many rewards credit cards available.
Annual Fee and APR
The Bilt Mastercard comes with no annual fee, making it accessible for a wide range of users. The APR for this card may vary depending on the applicant’s creditworthiness, so it is essential to review the card’s terms and conditions for specific information on the interest rate.
Credit Score Requirements
To qualify for the Bilt Mastercard, applicants typically need a good to excellent credit score. While the exact score requirements may not be publicly disclosed, potential cardholders should have a solid credit history and responsible financial habits to improve their chances of approval.
Rewards and Benefits
Earning Points
The Bilt Rewards Credit Card allows cardholders to earn points on all their purchases, including rent payments. With no annual fee, this card is an attractive option for renters who want to maximize their rewards on everyday spending. For every dollar spent on rent, cardholders typically earn 1 Bilt point.
Bonus Categories
In addition to rent payments, the Bilt Rewards Credit Card offers bonus points for spending in other categories. Cardholders can earn extra points on dining, travel, and other purchases, which can significantly boost their overall rewards earnings.
Hotel Partnerships
Bilt Rewards has partnerships with a variety of hotel loyalty programs, allowing cardholders to transfer their points to these partners for additional travel benefits. This feature is especially valuable for those who frequently use their Bilt Rewards points for hotel stays. Travelers can expect to find partner hotels that cater to every taste, from budget-friendly options to luxurious properties.
Other Perks
The Bilt Rewards Credit Card offers several other perks and benefits, such as:
- Primary car rental insurance: This benefit covers damage to or theft of a rental car, eliminating the need to purchase additional insurance from the rental agency.
- Cell phone insurance: Cardholders can receive coverage for their cell phone against theft or damage, provided they pay their monthly bill with the Bilt Rewards Credit Card.
- Tiered Bilt Status: Members can enjoy benefits such as bonus points and exclusive offers based on their Bilt status level (Blue, Silver, Gold, or Platinum), which is determined by their rent payment amounts and other factors.
While the Bilt Rewards Credit Card does not charge an annual fee, cardholders should be aware of potential interest charges if they carry a balance. To make the most out of this card, it’s essential to pay your statement balance in full each month and take advantage of the rewards, benefits, and perks offered by Bilt and its partners.
Bilt Rewards Program
Earn Points Through Rent Payment
The Bilt Rewards program allows renters to earn credit card rewards on rent payments without any fees when living in a Bilt Rewards Alliance property. This can help tenants maximize their rewards while building credit. With the Bilt Rewards Credit Card, users receive 1X Bilt Point for every dollar spent on rent payments.
Transfer Partners
Bilt Rewards has partnered with several travel programs, including Chase Ultimate Rewards, which means that users can transfer their Bilt Points to Chase or other partner programs to redeem for travel, hotels, and more. This can help cardholders make the most of their points and enjoy a wide variety of travel options.
Redemption Options
Bilt Points can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, such as:
- Travel: Users can book flights, hotels, car rentals, and cruises using points through the Bilt Rewards app.
- Transfer: Bilt Points can be transferred to partner programs, like Chase Ultimate Rewards and several airline partners.
- Fitness: Bilt Points can be redeemed for fitness classes or gym memberships.
- Lyft credit: Users can redeem points for Lyft credit, providing discounts on rideshare services.
- Cash back: While it’s not typically the best value, Bilt Points can also be redeemed for cash back in the form of a statement credit.
Please note that trip cancellation and trip delay reimbursement are not included in the Bilt Rewards program. Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of any potential theft or loss of points, and to review your program terms closely.
Overall, the Bilt Rewards program is an attractive option for renters looking to receive rewards for their rent payments and to access a variety of redemption choices.
Fees and Limitations
Foreign Transaction Fees
The Bilt Rewards Credit Card comes with no foreign transaction fees. This feature can be beneficial for cardholders who travel internationally and want to avoid additional fees on their purchases made abroad. Keep in mind that the card is a Mastercard, which offers wide acceptance worldwide.
Transaction Fee for Rent Payments
A major advantage of the Bilt Rewards Credit Card is the ability to earn points on rent payments with no fees. Cardholders can earn 1 point per dollar on rent payments, up to 100,000 points each calendar year. To maximize rewards, ensure your rent is paid within the billing cycle to avoid any interest charges. The process of making rent payments through Bilt is simple and the platform works seamlessly with most property management companies. This benefit is unique to the Bilt Rewards program and sets it apart from competitors.
In summary, the Bilt Rewards Credit Card offers valuable benefits while eliminating common fees such as foreign transaction fees and fees for rent payments. This can save cardholders money while helping them earn significant rewards, especially for those with high monthly rent expenses and frequent international travelers.
Pros and Cons
Bilt Credit Card Advantages
- Earn rewards on rent: The Bilt Mastercard allows you to earn rewards on rent payments, making it unique compared to other credit cards.
- No annual fee: There is no annual fee associated with the Bilt Rewards Credit Card, making it easy and affordable for cardholders.
- Insurance benefits: The card offers primary car rental and cell phone insurance, providing added protection for cardholders in case of accidents or damage.
- Transferable points: Bilt Rewards points can be transferred to various partner programs, increasing their value and flexibility for cardholders.
Bilt Credit Card Disadvantages
- Requires partnership: Your landlord must be part of the Bilt Rewards Alliance in order for you to use this card to pay rent without a processing fee. This alliance includes major real estate companies like Brookfield Properties, Cushman & Wakefield, Starwood Capital Group, and The Related Companies.
- Good/excellent credit required: To be approved for the Bilt Mastercard, applicants typically need to have a good to excellent credit score. This might limit the card’s accessibility for some individuals.
Bilt App and Additional Features
Bilt Travel Portal
The Bilt Rewards Credit Card features a Bilt Travel Portal that allows cardholders to book flights, hotels, and car rentals using their earned points. Users can search for travel options within the portal, compare the value of their points with other major loyalty programs, and ultimately choose the best options for their preferences.
Some benefits of the Bilt Travel Portal include:
- A hassle-free booking process.
- Easy redemption of points for travel rewards.
- Exclusive deals and discounts on travel bookings.
Bilt Rewards App
The Bilt Rewards App is designed to make managing your rewards simple and efficient. The app provides users with easy access to their account, allowing them to:
- Track and redeem points for rewards.
- Transfer points to participating airline and hotel partners.
- Monitor their rent payment history.
- Receive exclusive offers from Bilt partners.
Bilt Collection
As a part of the Bilt Rewards program, the Bilt Collection offers access to home decor, fitness equipment, and electronics that can be purchased using points through the app. The collection features a curated selection of products, aiming to provide cardholders with more flexibility in how they use their rewards.
Key aspects of the Bilt Collection include:
- A wide range of products to suit different lifestyles.
- The option to use Bilt Rewards points as a form of payment.
- Regular updates to the selection ensuring fresh and relevant items.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the approval odds?
The Bilt Rewards Credit Card typically requires a good to excellent credit score for approval. Although individual approval odds may vary depending on your credit history and other factors, maintaining a strong credit score will generally improve your chances of getting approved for this card.
What are the card requirements?
To be eligible for the Bilt Rewards Credit Card, you need to have a good to excellent credit score. The precise requirements may vary, but a credit score in the “good” or “excellent” range is usually required. Additionally, you must be at least 18 years of age to apply for this card.
Can it be used for rent?
Yes, the Bilt Rewards Credit Card allows users to earn 1X points on rent payments (up to $100,000 each calendar year). The card’s main feature is its ability to earn rewards on rent payments without any transaction fees, making it a valuable option for renters looking to maximize their rewards.
Which bank backs the card?
The Bilt Mastercard is issued by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. They have partnered with Bilt to offer this unique rewards card for rent payments and other everyday expenses.
Is there an annual fee?
The Bilt Rewards Credit Card has no annual fee, making it cost-effective for cardholders who want to earn rewards on rent and other purchases without incurring extra charges.
Can it be used anywhere?
Yes, the Bilt Rewards Credit Card can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted. In addition to rent payments, you can also earn 3X points on dining, 2X points on travel (when booked directly with an airline, hotel, car rental, or cruise company), and 1X points on all other purchases. This makes the card a versatile option for earning rewards on a variety of spending categories.