Finance

Unlock Diamond Status for Less: IHG One Rewards' Elite Qualifying Points Promotion

2024-12-17

Author: Li

What You Need to Know About EQPs

Eligible members can purchase up to a staggering 120,000 EQPs, providing a convenient shortcut to achieving or requalifying for Diamond status—IHG's highest tier—for another year. The attractive part? If you're starting from scratch, the potential value of these points when redeemed for hotel stays effectively makes securing Diamond status a savvy investment.

Promotion Details

To assess your eligibility for this EQP purchase offer, members can check through the designated IHG link. This promotion is valid until January 1, 2025, at 12:59 p.m. SGT, offering an excellent chance to boost your status. The points purchased can be utilized to retain your current elite tier or to elevate your status to a higher one, with Gold requiring 40,000 EQPs, Platinum needing 60,000 EQPs, and Diamond topping out at 120,000 EQPs.

Pricing Breakdown

Here's a snapshot of the purchase options available for EQPs: - 10,000 EQPs: US$280 (2.8 cents/EQP) - 20,000 EQPs: US$380 (1.9 cents/EQP) - 30,000 EQPs: US$445 (1.48 cents/EQP) - 40,000 EQPs: US$495 (1.24 cents/EQP) - 50,000 EQPs: US$540 (1.08 cents/EQP) - 60,000 EQPs: US$580 (0.97 cents/EQP) - … up to 120,000 EQPs: US$800 (0.67 cents/EQP) Notably, holders of an IHG cobrand credit card can benefit from a 20% discount on these prices. However, it has been reported that the initial pricing offers may have experienced a 25% increase shortly after the promotion launched, with 120,000 EQPs now potentially costing up to $1,000 due to a pricing glitch.

Are the Points Worth It?

Even with recent price adjustments, EQPs can still be redeemed for award nights, translating to a potential minimum value of $600 based on the standard sale price of 0.5 US cents per IHG point. This prompts an important question: Is it worthwhile to buy EQPs, especially if prices have surged? Many may still consider these costs justified given the benefits that come with Diamond status.

Exclusive Benefits of Diamond Status

Purchasing these points becomes compelling when considering the benefits of IHG Diamond status, which includes: - Complimentary breakfast - 100% bonus on IHG points - Room upgrades (including standard suites) - Early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability - Priority customer support Moreover, while breakfast alone may justify the investment for many travelers, additional perks like club lounge access must be earned through the Milestone Rewards program.

Conclusion

The IHG One Rewards EQP promotion presents a rare opportunity for members to gain or maintain elite status in a cost-effective manner. While the promotion is laden with conditions and potential price shifts, the chance to secure Diamond status, with its accompanying perks, makes it an offering worth evaluating. If you're targeted, don’t miss out on your chance to elevate your IHG experience!