The Citi ThankYou program is poised to experience a notable modification in the upcoming weeks, as highlighted by Doctor Of Credit. This alteration will affect the capability to share points, making it crucial for members to contemplate transferring points before the revised policy is implemented.
Citi ThankYou points sharing with others will no longer be available
At present, the Citi ThankYou program permits members to transfer up to 100,000 points annually to others and receive an equivalent amount. This leniency has been a defining feature of the program, with no limitations on who may receive points, provided they possess a Citi ThankYou account. Nevertheless, transferred points will expire after 90 days unless moved to a partner loyalty program.
As of May 17, 2026, this policy will be altered. Members will be prohibited from transferring points to others or accepting points from others. Although consolidating points across multiple cards under the same name will remain feasible, the capacity to share points with others will be terminated.
Members eager to benefit from the current policy should ensure they finalize any desired transfers ahead of the May 17 cutoff.
This change is disappointing but not unexpected
The cessation of points sharing is a disheartening evolution for Citi ThankYou members, as it diminishes the program’s versatility. While the alteration is regrettable, it is not wholly surprising. The unrestricted aspect of the former policy may have prompted concerns regarding points being traded or exchanged, resulting in this decision.
Credit card issuers consistently weigh the provision of attractive rewards against cost management, and this alteration could also be a strategy to enhance points breakage.
Final thoughts
Effective May 17, 2026, the Citi ThankYou program will no longer permit points transfers among members. Although points can continue to be pooled between personal accounts, transferring to others will cease to be an option.
Citi’s prior policy was distinctly generous, and while the modification is disappointing, it is not entirely unexpected. Members who can still gain from transferring or receiving up to 100,000 points annually should take action before the policy update goes into effect.
What is your perspective on this Citi ThankYou policy modification?