AAdvantage elite status in the US is determined through a loyalty points system, allowing users to earn status via credit card spending. Interestingly, American Airlines doesn’t adhere to a typical calendar year for its Elite Status Programs or Loyalty Points Rewards.
As we approach the close of the elite years, it’s understandable that some might be puzzled about how spending during this transition period affects loyalty points. So, let’s clarify that a bit more.
How to earn loyalty points with credit cards in February
The eligibility year for AAdvantage elite status runs from early March of one year to the end of February of the next year (for instance, from March 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026).
A common query is when credit card transactions need to occur to count towards earning loyalty points for a specific elite year. Essentially, will all credit card purchases made until the end of February contribute to the 2025-2026 program year, or is it tied to my statement closing date?
That’s a great question. Usually, loyalty points are assigned based on the date your credit card statement closes, rather than the actual spending date. However, do keep in mind there are some exceptions during the transition period.
Any credit card transactions recorded on your account by the end of February will be applicable to your current elite qualification year, regardless of your statement cutoff. Just ensure your charges are fully updated (not in “pending” status) before the month’s end.
Conversely, any credit card spending reflected on your account starting in March will count towards the upcoming elite qualification year. It’s worth noting that loyalty points from billing cycles ending in March may take a bit longer to appear due to the way rewards are allocated during this timeframe.
This policy holds true for all American co-branded cards, whether you’re using a personal card like the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® or a business card like the Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard®.
Loyalty point bonuses are also awarded each membership year
Just a quick reminder: two of the Citi AAdvantage co-branded cards provide annual loyalty point bonuses, separate from spending requirements.
- The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® allows you to earn up to 20,000 bonus loyalty points each year without needing to spend a certain amount. You gain 10,000 bonus loyalty points after reaching 50,000 loyalty points in a membership year and another 10,000 after hitting 90,000 loyalty points within that same period.
- With the Citi® / AAdvantage® Globe™ Mastercard®, you can earn up to 15,000 bonus loyalty points annually, also without any spending prerequisites. You receive 5,000 bonus points for every four eligible U.S. flights taken, redeemable up to three times a year.
These perks relate to your elite membership year, resetting each March 1st.
Conclusion
Spending on an American Airlines co-branded card contributes to achieving elite status, and many might be working out how many loyalty points they need by year’s end for their current status.
Unlike other months, American considers all spending recorded by the end of February for this year’s status, while all transactions from March 1st onward will count toward the next year. This means that for this period, the crucial factor isn’t the closing date of your account, but rather when your spending actually reflects in your account.
What’s your experience with American credit card spending in February?
