One of my favorite aspects of the Starwood Preferred Guest program is the ability to earn SPG points with various parters. I earn quite a few Starpoints annually by flying on Delta Air Lines or using Uber (especially when staying at an SPG property). Currently, SPG members who have linked their accounts to Uber earn 1 point per dollar spend with uber. That rate increases, based on elite status, during a stay at an SPG property to 2x points for SPG Members, 3x points for Gold and Platinum, and 4x points for 75+ night elites. To take advantage of the program, SPG members must link, their SPG and Uber accounts and complete one qualifying stay at an SPG property each year. Unfortunately, SPG is now reducing points earning rates with Uber
Enhanced Updated Earning Rates
Today, SPG send out an email updating the terms of the SPG and Uber crossover rewards program. Per the email sent to SPG members, after February 1, 2017, all SPG members will earn just 1x Starpoints per $2/spend with Uber. In addition, while staying at an SPG property all members will earn just 2x Starpoints per $1/spend with uber. Obviously this represents a significant reduction in the crossover earning rate, but I am glad to see SPG is keeping the program running for the foreseeable future.
How To Maximize The SPG and Uber Crossover
I have been using this crossover for a few years now and have picked up a few tips and tricks along the way to maximize points earn on Uber rides. After linking your SPG and Uber accounts, staying at an SPG property (annually), and receiving a confirmation email that your accounts are linked the following will help you get the most out of the program:
- Use a credit card that earns bonus points for taxis to pay for Uber rides. I personally use the Chase Sapphire Reserve. This way you earn 3x Ultimate Rewards Points and .5 Starpoints on all Uber Rides.
- Use Uber while staying at an SPG property. While staying, you will earn 3x UR points and 2x Starpoints per dollar spent with Uber.
- Always request the Uber! If you split Uber rides with friends, always be the one to request the ride. You earn Starpoints based on the total cost of the ride not just what you personally paid (although credit card points are based on personal spend).
- Link your SPG and Marriott Rewards accounts. If you have not already heard, SPG and Marriott Rewards are merging. Today, Marriott and SPG accounts can be linked and points can be transferred between the two programs. SPG points transfer to Marriott at a 1:3 ratio meaning each Starpoint earned with Uber is worth 3 Marriott Rewards points.
Final Thoughts
I frequently use Uber for both personal and business use. By linking my SPG and Uber accounts I earn Starpoints for each dollar spent on Uber in both cases. I love SPG crossover promotions and am sad to see SPG drop the earning rates, but I understand how letting 75+ night members earn 12 Marriott Rewards points per $1 spent with Uber could be quite costly for Marriott in the long run.
Update: Per Gary Leff’s ViewFromTheWing, Starwood is launching a promotion allowing all SPG members to earn 5x Starpoints while staying at an SPG property in February 2017. It is unclear if more promotions like this will be offered in the future.
