After earning a free night certificate for spending $15,000 on my World of Hyatt Visa, I learned a few lessons that weren’t immediately obvious. Despite hitting the required spending threshold late in the month, I was left in suspense, wondering when—and even if—the certificate would appear in my account. I expected some acknowledgment from Chase or Hyatt, but I only saw my certificate post quietly after my statement closed.
This experience taught me the importance of patience and knowing exactly how this process works. For others aiming for this bonus, here are a few insights to make the journey smoother:
When Will The Free Night Certificate Post To Your Account?
After reaching $15,000 in spending, expect the free night to show up in your account after the statement closing date. There’s no congratulatory email or alert when you qualify, so it’s easy to miss if you don’t know where to look.
Is The Spending Requirement Based On A Calendar Year?
Yes, it is based on the calendar year, from January 1 to December 31. Remember that the $95 annual fee, interest, or any fees do not count toward this requirement. It’s also unclear if spending is tracked by transaction date or post date, so plan carefully if you’re nearing the end of the year.
As a one-time bonus each calendar year, you, as the primary cardmember, will earn a Category 1 through 4 Free Night Award after you spend $15,000 in purchases
When Does The Free Night Certificate Expire?
The free night certificate expires one year from the date it is added to your account, and your stay must be completed by that date.
Can I Add Points To Use The Certificate At A Category 5 Hotel Or Above?
No, this certificate can only be used at a Category 1-4 property, but there are plenty of great options within that range, like the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress near Walt Disney World.
Can I Combine The Free Night With Cash/Points For A Longer Stay?
Yes, you can combine the free night with additional paid nights or points as long as you book a standard room. Availability may vary.
Is There A Way To Track My Progress With Chase Or Hyatt?
Not that I found. I kept track using my financial program to sort transactions on my card, removing the payments, annual fees, late fees (oops!) (Note from his wife, Sharon: #rolleyes) and interest payments. If you use the card for balance transfers or cash advances, remove them from your count.
Final Thoughts
Earning a World of Hyatt free night certificate by meeting spending requirements had more quirks than expected. But now that I understand how it works, I’m looking forward to making the most of this benefit. If you’re pursuing this, track your spending carefully and know that your certificate will arrive eventually—just without any fanfare.
Want to comment on this post? Great! Read this first to help ensure it gets approved.
Want to sponsor a post, write something for Your Mileage May Vary, or put ads on our site? Click here for more info.
Like this post? Please share it! We have plenty more just like it and would love it if you decided to hang around and sign up to get emailed notifications of when we post.
Whether you’ve read our articles before or this is the first time you’re stopping by, we’re really glad you’re here and hope you come back to visit again!
This post first appeared on Your Mileage May Vary
Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.