Introduction:
Starting April 1, 2025, significant modifications will be implemented across various credit card benefits and rewards programs for SBI and IDFC cardholders. These changes will impact a wide range of customers, affecting some of the most popular credit cards, including SBI SimplyCLICK, Air India SBI Platinum, and Air India SBI Signature Credit Cards. If you're a frequent user of SBI or IDFC First Bank credit cards, it’s crucial to understand how these adjustments could affect your spending and rewards.
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| Major changes to SBI and IDFC credit cards, including reward points cuts, removal of insurance coverage, and revised benefits starting April 1, 2025 |
Changes to SBI Credit Card Rewards:
SBI Card is revising its rewards structure, making notable changes to how customers earn points. One of the most significant changes is for the SimplyCLICK SBI credit card users. Starting from April 1, 2025, the reward points earned on Swiggy transactions will be slashed from 10X to 5X. Despite this cut, customers will continue to earn 10X reward points for online purchases on platforms like Myntra, Netmeds, Cleartrip, Dominos, Yatra, BookMyShow, and Apollo 24x7. This change is part of a broader recalibration of the cardholder benefits.
Impact on Air India SBI Credit Cards:
For frequent flyers with Air India, SBI is making substantial revisions to the reward benefits for ticket bookings through the airline’s mobile app and online portal. Effective March 31, 2025, cardholders will notice a significant reduction in the accelerated rewards for Air India bookings. Additionally, the reward points for every ₹100 spent using the SBI Platinum Credit Card will decrease from 15 points to just 5. Similarly, Air India SBI Signature Credit Card users will see a drop in reward points from 30 to 10 for every ₹100 spent. These reductions mark a shift in the value proposition for loyal cardholders.
Discontinuation of Complimentary Insurance Coverage:
Starting July 26, 2025, SBI Card will discontinue its complimentary insurance coverage, which had been a key feature for many cardholders. This includes air accident insurance worth ₹50 lakh and rail accident insurance worth ₹10 lakh. The removal of these benefits reflects the ongoing adjustments being made by SBI to align with changing market conditions and evolving financial strategies.
IDFC First Bank Credit Card Changes:
IDFC First Bank is also making changes to its credit card offerings. One of the major revisions includes the removal of milestone benefits for the Club Vistara IDFC First Bank credit card starting April 1, 2025. However, cardholders can still accumulate Maharaja Points until March 2026. Additionally, the Club Vistara SBI Card will remove milestone benefits and economy ticket vouchers based on specific annual spend thresholds. IDFC First Bank will also stop offering Club Vistara Silver Memberships, premium economy ticket vouchers, and milestone vouchers. These shifts reflect a changing approach to credit card rewards and benefits.
Conclusion:
The changes to SBI and IDFC credit cards from April 2025 indicate a broader trend in the financial services sector where credit card issuers are recalibrating their reward structures and benefits. If you're an existing cardholder, it's important to review the new terms and adjust your spending habits accordingly to maximize the benefits of your credit card. Stay informed about these updates to make the most of your card’s rewards and avoid any surprises.
Call to Action:
For more detailed information on how these changes might affect your credit card, visit the official SBI or IDFC First Bank website or consult with customer service representatives. Stay updated on new trends and strategies to optimize your credit card usage.