Ever since the news broke that Hilton and American Express would be entering an exclusive partnership, we’ve known the Citi Hilton cards’ days were numbered. Now the final end game is revealed with the launch of two new Hilton American Express cards and the refreshing/rebranding of the existing cards. You can read about the new Hilton American Express cards here.
Citi Hilton cards being converted to American Express cards
Now we know that your Citi Hilton cards will be converted to American Express Hilton Honors cards as of January 30, 2018.
This might be obvious, but the no-fee Citi card will be converted to the no-fee American Express Hilton card, while the Citi Hilton Honors Reserve card will be converted to the new Hilton Honors American Express Ascend card, which has an annual fee.
The first thing that comes to mind is American Express’ once-per-lifetime language on card bonuses per product. If you have a Citi Hilton card and hope to get the American Express versions someday, I would consider closing your card and reapplying for the American Express version independently. As I already have a full array of American Express cards in general, including a Hilton Honors Surpass card, I’ll be closing my Citi Hilton card soon. This FAQ about the change should help if you have other questions.
Will you be keeping your Citi Hilton card and allowing it to be converted to a new American Express card?
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What if you already have an Amex hilton card?
That’s unclear at this point but I could see you ending up with more than one or having them cancel the extras
Is it safe to say that keeping the existing Citi Hilton cards retains the credit history? I have two no annual fee Citi Hilton cards opened back in 2013 and 2015.
I know each individual is different but what is your suggestion (keep or cancel before January 2018)? I have very high FICO scores (high 700 for Experian/Equifax and 800 for TU) but my average credit history is around a few years only and that’s after opening many cards over the years.
Thanks.
Hi
Am pending an award night certificate for 10k annual spend on card. If I cancel once I have the award ref number will I still be able to use it? I doubt it ate
Thanks
If you close your Hilton card. Will you lose your Hilton honors points? I booked a hotel in April using the points. Also if card converts to amex. Does it count towards your 5 24 status?
You mention closing the no fee Citi Card and applying for the no fee American Express card, but won’t you lose any Hilton points you already have. Wouldn’t it make more sense to apply for the Amex card first and get the sign up bonus before cancelling the Citi card?
Terry, once the points are in your account, they’re yours forever.
Well, until you use them.