Maximize Your Rewards: The Best Times to Apply for Marriott Credit Cards
Marriott International stands as the largest hotel chain globally, boasting over 9,000 properties across 144 countries and more than 35 brands. As part of their loyalty program, Marriott offers a variety of cobranded credit cards through two primary issuers: American Express and Chase. These cards cater to diverse needs, ranging from no-annual-fee options to premium offerings for frequent travelers.
If you’re considering applying for a Marriott credit card, understanding the timing and current offers can significantly enhance your rewards. Below, we’ll break down some of the most popular Marriott credit cards, their welcome offers, and the optimal times to apply based on historical data.
While we focus on publicly available offers, remember that you may encounter targeted deals that are even more advantageous. Offers can change frequently, so it’s wise to stay informed about the latest promotions.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
The Bonvoy Brilliant is Marriott’s premium credit card, featuring a $650 annual fee. Cardholders earn 6 points per dollar spent at Marriott properties, 3 points on dining and flights booked directly, and 2 points on all other purchases. Benefits include automatic Platinum Elite status, an annual free night award worth 85,000 points after renewal, and various travel protections.
Current Offers:
– Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in the first six months.
– Historically, the highest offer was 150,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in the first three months, plus an additional 50,000 points after staying six eligible nights.
If you see an offer exceeding 100,000 bonus points, it’s an excellent time to apply.
Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Card
The Bonvoy Bevy is a mid-tier card with a $250 annual fee, allowing cardholders to earn 6 points per dollar spent on Marriott stays. It offers automatic Gold Elite status, elite night credits, and modest travel protections.
Current Offers:
– Currently, you can earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first six months.
– The best historical offer was 125,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first three months, plus 50,000 points for staying six eligible nights.
If the offer exceeds 85,000 points, consider applying.
Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card
Designed for small-business owners, the Bonvoy Business card has a $125 annual fee and provides a free night award of up to 35,000 points, elite night credits, and solid earning potential on Marriott stays.
Current Offers:
– New applicants can earn 125,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first six months.
– The highest historical offer included five free night awards after spending $8,000 in the first six months.
If you find an offer over 100,000 points or three or more free nights, it’s a good time to apply.
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card
The Boundless card from Chase has a $95 annual fee and earns 6 points per dollar spent at Marriott properties. Benefits include a free night award of up to 35,000 points annually and automatic Silver Elite status.
Current Offers:
– Currently, new cardholders can earn 125,000 bonus points and one Free Night Award (valued up to 50,000 points) after spending $3,000 in the first three months.
– The best historical offer allowed new cardholders to earn five free night awards after spending $5,000 within the first three months.
If the offer exceeds three free night awards or 125,000 bonus points, consider applying.
Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card
The no-annual-fee Bonvoy Bold card is an entry-level option for occasional travelers, offering automatic Silver Elite status and modest travel protections.
Current Offers:
– New cardholders can earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first three months.
– The highest historical offer was 150,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in the first three months, plus 50,000 points for staying six eligible nights.
If the offer exceeds 60,000 points, it’s a good time to apply.
Eligibility Considerations
Before applying for any Marriott credit card, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for the welcome offers. American Express cards typically allow only one bonus per cardholder, and specific rules apply if you’ve held previous Marriott or former Starwood Preferred Guest cards.
Chase cards are subject to the 5/24 rule, meaning you cannot have opened five or more personal credit cards across all banks in the past 24 months. This rule is in addition to Marriott’s application rules if you’ve previously held another Marriott or former SPG card.
Timing Your Application
By analyzing historical offer data, you can better time your applications for Marriott credit cards. Certain months consistently yield higher welcome offers than others, providing a strategic advantage for potential cardholders.
Aim to apply when offers exceed the established thresholds mentioned above. This approach can help you maximize your Bonvoy points and enhance your travel experiences.
Conclusion
With a variety of Marriott credit cards available, choosing the right one can significantly impact your travel rewards. By understanding the offers and timing your application strategically, you can maximize your benefits and enjoy the perks that come with Marriott’s loyalty program. Stay informed, and don’t hesitate to apply when the offers are at their peak!
