Chase and IHG Launch $350 Premier Select Card with 200K Point Bonus

Key points

• The new IHG One Rewards Premier Select card costs $350 annually and offers a 200,000-point bonus for spending $5,000 within three months, valid through November 18, 2026.
• Key benefits include up to $300 in quarterly food and beverage credits at IHG properties, a $200 annual airline statement credit, and an anniversary free night worth up to 60,000 points.
• Cardholders receive automatic Platinum elite status, 20 elite night credits per year, and a fourth night free on award redemptions for consecutive four-night stays.
• The card earns 12x points on IHG spending, 6x on dining and travel, and 3x on all other purchases.
• The airline statement credit is currently valid through December 31, 2027, and requires a direct airline purchase of at least $250.

Background

This launch is part of a broader refresh of the IHG and Chase co-branded credit card portfolio, which previously included three cards. The new lineup now consists of four cards with annual fees ranging from $0 to $350. Existing cardholders will see changes to fees and benefits take effect in 2027, while new applicants receive updated terms immediately. The introduction of the Premier Select card fills a gap in the mid-to-high price range, competing with other premium travel cards. Background from earlier coverage indicates that Chase has been adjusting its card offerings, such as the Freedom Flex, to enhance value for travelers, though this specific IHG refresh is a distinct development in the hotel loyalty space.

How outlets are covering it

One Mile at a Time emphasizes the strong value proposition for frequent IHG guests, noting that the airline credit and free night award alone justify the annual fee. The Points Guy provides a comprehensive overview of the entire portfolio refresh, highlighting that while the new card offers enhanced benefits, existing cards face higher fees and reduced status perks, such as the loss of automatic Platinum status on the mid-tier Premier card. NerdWallet, while not directly reviewing the new card, previously praised the lower-tier IHG Premier card for its high value and 5-star rating, suggesting that the new premium tier may appeal to those seeking even more extensive benefits despite the higher cost. There is a noted tension between the high value of the new card and the potential devaluation of points over time, as mentioned by some commenters on One Mile at a Time.

Why it matters

The launch of the IHG One Rewards Premier Select card signals a shift in the hotel credit card market toward higher annual fees and more premium benefits. For consumers, this means more options for maximizing travel rewards, but also higher costs and more complex eligibility requirements. The card’s strong welcome bonus and perks make it an attractive option for those who frequently stay at IHG properties, but the higher annual fee and specific spending requirements may not be suitable for all users. Additionally, the broader refresh of the IHG card portfolio indicates a trend toward consolidating benefits and increasing fees, which could impact existing cardholders and their loyalty to the program.

What to watch

The welcome bonus for the IHG One Rewards Premier Select card is available through November 18, 2026. Existing cardholders will see changes to their fees and benefits take effect in 2027. The airline statement credit is currently valid through December 31, 2027, but may be extended. Consumers should monitor their card terms and consider whether the new benefits justify the higher annual fees. Additionally, the fate of the legacy IHG One Rewards Select Card remains uncertain, as it is not included in the new portfolio.