Southwest Points Expiration: Rules, Rapid Rewards, And What You Need To Know [Updated On: September 2025]

Southwest Rapid Rewards points do not expire if your account stays open and in good standing. Closing your account means you lose your points. Recent changes state that “Basic” fare points expire after six months. Points from other fare types expire after 12 months of inactivity.

Understanding the rules surrounding Southwest Points expiration helps members manage their rewards effectively. Rapid Rewards offers various ways to keep points active, such as using a Southwest credit card for purchases. Cardholders can earn points for everyday spending, ensuring their balance remains intact.

Members should also be aware of the exceptions to expiration. Earning a “special promotion” or engaging in qualifying travel resets the expiration clock. This flexibility makes it easier for frequent travelers to maintain their rewards.

As you plan your travel and spending, consider ways to maximize your Southwest Points. Next, explore how to earn more points effectively, and discover tips for redeeming them for flights and upgrades efficiently.

Table of Contents

Do Southwest Points Ever Expire?

No, Southwest points do not expire as long as there is some account activity within a 24-month period.

Keeping your account active is essential for maintaining your points. This activity can occur through earning or redeeming points. For instance, flying on Southwest, using a Southwest credit card, or transferring points from hotel partners will reset your expiration clock. Failure to have such activity within 24 months will result in the expiration of your points. Therefore, it’s important for account holders to engage with their points periodically to avoid losing them.

What Are the Current Expiration Policies for Southwest Points?

The current expiration policies for Southwest Points state that points do not expire as long as there is account activity every 24 months.

Points remain valid indefinitely with activity.
Account activity includes earning, redeeming, or transferring points.
Lack of activity results in expiration after 24 months.
Members can track their account activity through the Southwest website or app.
Extended policies may vary with promotional offers or changes in terms.

The above points highlight the core aspects of Southwest Points expiration policies. Understanding these details can help members maintain their points effectively.

Points Validity with Activity:
Points validity with activity means Southwest Points do not expire as long as members engage in any account-related activity within 24 months. This activity could be earning points from flights, redeeming them for rewards, or transferring them to another account. Thus, users can enjoy their points without worrying about expiration as long as they engage with their account regularly.
Defined Account Activity:
Defined account activity refers to the actions that keep the Southwest account active. Earning points can occur through flying on Southwest, using a Rapid Rewards credit card, or shopping through the Rapid Rewards Shopping portal. Redeeming points for flights, hotel stays, or car rentals is also considered activity. Staying informed about different ways to earn points can help members maintain their balances.
Consequences of Inactivity:
Consequences of inactivity involve the expiration of points. If there is no account activity for 24 consecutive months, points will expire. Members may face the loss of valuable rewards if they are unaware of this policy. It is essential for members to monitor their account activity to avoid expiration and to be proactive in using their points.
Tracking Account Activity:
Tracking account activity means members can easily check their status via the Southwest website or mobile app. The site displays all recent transactions, making it easy to identify when account activity last occurred. Regularly checking these records can act as a reminder to stay active and ensure points do not expire.
Promotional Offers and Changes:
Promotional offers and changes indicate that Southwest may occasionally adjust their policies or provide limited-time promotions affecting point expiration. Members should stay updated with notifications from Southwest to take advantage of offers or changes that could benefit their point management strategies.

By understanding the expiration policies for Southwest Points and remaining active within the stipulated time frame, members can maximize their rewards effectively.

How Do Southwest Rapid Rewards Influence Point Expiration?

Southwest Rapid Rewards points do not expire as long as there is qualifying account activity every 24 months. This policy encourages active participation and rewards frequent travelers.

To elaborate on this, the following key points clarify how point expiration is influenced:

Activity Requirement: Rapid Rewards points remain valid if a member engages in qualifying activities within a two-year window. This includes booking flights, earning points through partner services, or making purchases using a Rapid Rewards credit card.
Qualifying Account Activity: Account activity must be eligible to preserve points. Not all transactions count; for instance, just logging into the account does not qualify. Activities include:
– Flying with Southwest Airlines
– Using points to book flights
– Buying points or transferring them
– Earning points through hotel stays, car rentals, or shopping with partners
Point Validity: If no qualifying activity occurs within the 24-month period, points will expire. For example, if a member has not flown or engaged in other point-earning activities for two years, their accumulated points will be forfeited.
Reinstatement Options: Members can recover expired points by reactivating their accounts through specific activities. Examples include booking a flight or utilizing a Rapid Rewards credit card. However, there may be fees involved in the reinstatement process.
Communication from Southwest: Southwest Airlines sends notifications regarding impending expirations. It is advisable for members to keep their contact details updated to receive these alerts.

By maintaining active participation in the Rapid Rewards program, members can ensure their points remain intact and can be used for future travel opportunities.

What Actions Can You Take to Prevent Southwest Points from Expiring?

To prevent Southwest Points from expiring, you can take several proactive steps. Engaging in eligible activities earns points and keeps your account active.

Fly on Southwest Airlines.
Book a hotel or rental car through Southwest partners.
Use the Southwest credit card for purchases.
Redeem points for flights, hotels, or gift cards.
Take advantage of special promotions from Southwest.
Stay aware of your account activity and expiration dates.

Taking these actions ensures your points remain valid and can be used for future travel. Understanding the details of each method can provide better insights for maintaining your points.

Flying on Southwest Airlines:
Flying on Southwest Airlines is the primary method to earn points and keep your account active. Each flight you take earns you Rapid Rewards points based on the fare and class of service. For example, a one-way flight from Los Angeles to Chicago can earn you hundreds of points. As per Southwest’s policy, any flight activity resets the 24-month expiration timeline for points.
Booking Hotels or Rental Cars Through Southwest Partners:
Booking hotels or rental cars through Southwest’s travel partners also generates points. Southwest collaborates with various hotel chains and rental car companies. If you book a hotel stay or a rental car via the Southwest website or app, you earn points that extend your expiration timeline. According to a 2021 posting on Southwest’s website, participating partners include various popular brands like Marriott and Hertz.
Using the Southwest Credit Card for Purchases:
Using a Southwest credit card for daily purchases is another way to earn points. Every dollar spent on the card generates points that contribute to your Rapid Rewards balance. The card also offers special promotional periods where you can earn bonus points. Additionally, the points accumulated keep your account active and prevent expiration.
Redeeming Points for Flights, Hotels, or Gift Cards:
Redeeming your points for Southwest flights, hotels, or even gift cards can also prevent your points from expiring. Any redemption activity counts as qualifying activity, thus resetting your expiration date. For instance, a recent traveler may redeem points for a fare on a much-anticipated trip, which reinvigorates their account.
Taking Advantage of Special Promotions:
Southwest often runs special promotions that allow you to earn double points or bonus points for specific actions. Engaging in these promotions can rapidly increase your point balance. These promotional periods are usually communicated through email or the Southwest website, allowing members to stay informed and take suitable actions.
Staying Aware of Your Account Activity and Expiration Dates:
Regularly checking your Rapid Rewards account can help you stay informed about point balances and expiration dates. You can do this by logging into your account online or using the Southwest app. Maintaining awareness ensures timely action, as points expire after 24 months of inactivity, unless account activity occurs.

By employing these strategies, you can effectively prevent the expiration of your Southwest Points and maximize your rewards for future travels.

How Can You Extend the Life of Your Southwest Points?

You can extend the life of your Southwest points by regularly earning or redeeming points, checking for promotions, and staying aware of expiration policies.

Regularly earning or redeeming points allows you to reset the expiration date. Points expire after 24 months of inactivity, meaning if you earn or redeem points, the clock resets. Simple actions like booking a flight or using your points for a hotel stay can achieve this. An analysis from Points Travel, 2022, indicates redeeming or earning points at least once every two years keeps your account active.

Checking for promotions helps you earn points quickly and efficiently. Southwest often runs limited-time offers, such as bonus points for certain flights or partner activations. Participating in these promotions can significantly boost your point total while also extending their life. According to Southwest’s promotions, customers engaged in such offers can earn up to 50% more points in a single transaction during peak times.

Staying aware of expiration policies is crucial. Southwest points expire if there is no earning or redeeming activity for 24 months. However, some exceptions apply. For instance, points granted through Southwest’s Rapid Rewards credit card do not expire as long as the card remains active and in good standing. This is highlighted in the Southwest Rapid Rewards Member Guide, which details how maintaining a credit card account can safeguard your points.

By earning and redeeming points, participating in promotions, and understanding expiration policies, you can effectively extend the life of your Southwest points.

How Can You Monitor Your Southwest Points Balance?

You can monitor your Southwest points balance by using the Southwest Airlines website, mobile app, or contacting customer service directly.

Here are detailed explanations of each method:

Southwestern Airlines website: Visit the official Southwest Airlines website. Log in to your Rapid Rewards account using your email and password. Once logged in, your points balance will be clearly displayed on your account dashboard. This method provides a real-time view of your points balance.
Mobile app: Download the Southwest Airlines mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. After logging in to your account, tap on the “Rapid Rewards” section to view your points balance. The app also allows you to track your earning and spending activities.
Customer service: If you prefer direct communication, you can contact Southwest Airlines customer service. Call the number listed on their website and ask a representative to provide your points balance. Ensure you have your Rapid Rewards account details ready for verification.
Email notifications: Southwest Airlines often sends email updates regarding your points balance. Make sure your email preferences are set to receive these notifications. This provides a convenient way to stay informed about your balance and any promotional offers.

By regularly checking your points balance, you can plan your travel effectively and ensure that you maximize the use of your Southwest points.

What Tools Are Available to Track Expiration Dates?

The available tools to track expiration dates include apps, tracking devices, and inventory management systems.

Mobile Applications
Smart Labels
Inventory Management Software
Google Sheets or Excel
Reminder Services

These tools offer various ways to manage expiration dates effectively, catering to different user needs and preferences.

Mobile Applications: Mobile applications are specially designed tools that help users keep track of expiration dates. These apps often allow users to enter product details and receive notifications before expiration. Popular apps like “Expiry Reminder” and “Fridge Pal” help manage food expiration at home, ensuring consumers discard old products promptly.
Smart Labels: Smart labels use technology like QR codes or RFID tags to provide real-time information about a product’s status. Users can scan these labels with their smartphones to get details about expiration dates and storage conditions. Companies like Avery offer printable labels that allow consumers to track their items more efficiently.
Inventory Management Software: Inventory management software is used primarily by businesses to track stock levels, including expiration dates. These systems can alert managers when products are nearing expiration, minimizing waste. Solutions such as “FreshBooks” and “Zoho Inventory” are popular for their comprehensive tracking features.
Google Sheets or Excel: Using spreadsheet programs like Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel allows users to create a customized inventory tracking system. By setting up columns for item names, purchase dates, and expiration dates, users can organize and control their product information easily. This method provides flexibility but requires manual input.
Reminder Services: Reminder services offer a simple method to track expiration dates. Services like “Todoist” or “Google Calendar” allow users to set reminders for specific dates, ensuring they are alerted before items expire. This method is straightforward and can be integrated with daily tasks.

As these various tools highlight, the choice of tool largely depends on individual needs, whether for personal or business use. Different tools offer unique advantages, accommodating a wide range of user preferences.

What Should You Do If Your Southwest Points Expire?

If your Southwest points are set to expire, you have several options to prevent the loss of your rewards.

Use your points for a flight or reward.
Earn points through eligible transactions.
Extend the expiration date by earning points.
Request reinstatement of expired points.
Consider donating points to a charity.
Keep your account active by using it regularly.

To understand the best actions you can take, let’s explore each of these options in detail.

Using Points for a Flight or Reward: Using your Southwest points for booking a flight or redeeming other rewards stops the expiration clock. A ticket purchase will automatically reinstate your points, making this a straightforward solution.
Earning Points Through Eligible Transactions: Engaging in transactions such as flying on Southwest or using a Southwest credit card will generate new points. This activity resets the expiration date. Checking for eligible categories, like dining or shopping through Southwest’s partners, can also help.
Extending the Expiration Date by Earning Points: Earning Southwest points through different methods allows you to extend the expiration date of all points. For example, even a small purchase can suffice. This is a proactive approach to safeguard your points.
Requesting Reinstatement of Expired Points: If points expire, contact Southwest’s customer service. They may reinstate points depending on your account history and the specific circumstances. However, doing this is not guaranteed and relies on their discretion.
Donating Points to a Charity: If your points are about to expire, consider donating them. Southwest allows point donations to numerous charitable organizations. This not only prevents waste but also helps support community initiatives.
Keeping Your Account Active: Regular activity in your Southwest account will help maintain the validity of your points. Setting reminders to check your account or making occasional transactions can keep your account active.

By utilizing these strategies, you can effectively manage your Southwest points and prevent them from expiring.

Can You Reactivate Expired Southwest Points?

No, you cannot reactivate expired Southwest points. Once points expire, they are no longer available for use.

Southwest Airlines points expire after 24 months of inactivity. This rule encourages members to remain active by flying or collecting points. If your points expire, reactivation is not an option, so it’s important to monitor your account. You can keep your account active by earning or redeeming points during that period. Options include booking flights, using points for hotel stays, or making purchases through Southwest’s shopping portal.

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