The Bilt Mastercard, issued by Wells Fargo, is a one-of-a-kind credit card that allows renters to earn reward points on rent payments without paying processing fees.
This feature alone makes it a standout option for those looking to maximize rewards on their largest recurring expense.
Most credit cards charge a 3% fee when using a credit card to pay rent, but Bilt eliminates this cost, making it an ideal choice for renters looking to maximize their spending power.
Besides rent, the card also offers competitive rewards on travel and dining, along with strong security features, travel benefits, and exclusive membership perks.
Additionally, Bilt Rewards points can be transferred to top airline and hotel partners, making them highly valuable for travel enthusiasts.
With no annual fee, high-value rewards, and premium benefits, the Bilt Mastercard is an innovative financial tool that caters to renters and frequent travelers alike.
Reasons to Choose the Bilt Mastercard
1. Earn Rewards on Rent Without Fees
The biggest advantage of the Bilt Mastercard is the ability to pay rent and earn points with no extra processing fees.
This is a game-changer for renters who would otherwise be unable to earn rewards on one of their largest monthly expenses.
2. Competitive Rewards Structure
- 3X points per $1 spent on dining – Ideal for food lovers and frequent restaurant-goers.
- 2X points per $1 spent on travel – Perfect for those who spend on flights, hotels, and transportation.
- 1X point per $1 spent on rent (up to 100,000 points per year).
- 1X point per $1 on all other purchases.
3. Valuable Travel Transfer Partners
One of the biggest perks of the Bilt Mastercard is the ability to transfer points to premium travel partners, including:
- American Airlines AAdvantage
- United MileagePlus
- Air Canada Aeroplan
- Hyatt, Marriott Bonvoy, and IHG
This makes the Bilt Rewards program one of the best no-annual-fee travel programs available.
4. No Annual Fee
Unlike many premium travel credit cards, the Bilt Mastercard has no annual fee, allowing users to maximize rewards without worrying about extra costs.
5. Built-In Travel and Purchase Protections
- Trip cancellation/interruption insurance – Covers up to $5,000 per trip for prepaid, non-refundable expenses.
- Auto rental collision damage waiver – Secondary coverage when renting a car.
- Purchase protection – Covers new purchases against damage or theft.
6. Complimentary Cell Phone Protection
Pay your monthly phone bill with the Bilt Mastercard, and you get up to $800 in cell phone protection per claim (with a $25 deductible).
7. No Foreign Transaction Fees
If you travel internationally, you won’t have to worry about extra charges on foreign purchases, making the Bilt Mastercard a great travel companion.
8. Exclusive Bilt Membership Benefits
Bilt offers exclusive experiences, including access to:
- Bilt Dining – Earn extra points at partner restaurants.
- Fitness perks – Redeem points for SoulCycle, Rumble, Y7, and more.
- VIP travel experiences.
Negative Factors of the Bilt Mastercard
1. Requires Five Purchases Per Month to Earn Points
To earn points, cardholders must make at least five purchases per month. This can be a drawback for those who only plan to use the card for rent payments.
2. No Welcome Bonus
Unlike many travel and cashback cards, the Bilt Mastercard does not offer a sign-up bonus, making it less attractive for new users looking for an initial points boost.
3. Limited Bonus Categories
While the card excels in travel and dining rewards, it does not offer bonus points on groceries, gas, or everyday shopping, which some competitors provide.
4. Requires Good to Excellent Credit
Applicants typically need a credit score of at least 700 for approval, which may limit accessibility for some users.
What Are the Requirements to Apply for the Bilt Mastercard?
To qualify for the Bilt Mastercard, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old (19 in some states).
- Have a U.S. Social Security Number (SSN).
- Have a good to excellent credit score (typically 700+ recommended).
- Provide proof of income when applying.
Fees and Costs
The Bilt Mastercard has a transparent and competitive fee structure:
- Annual Fee: $0.
- APR for Purchases: Variable APR based on creditworthiness.
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% or $5 (whichever is greater).
- Late Payment Fee: Up to $40.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Bilt Mastercard
1. Can I use the Bilt Mastercard for non-rent expenses?
Yes, the Bilt Mastercard can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted, earning points on all purchases.
2. How do I earn rewards on rent payments?
Rent payments are processed through Bilt’s payment platform, allowing you to pay your landlord directly or via check while earning points without fees.
3. Do Bilt Rewards points expire?
No, as long as you make at least one purchase every 12 months, your points will never expire.
4. Can I transfer Bilt Rewards points to airlines?
Yes, points can be transferred to top airline and hotel partners, making them highly valuable for travel redemptions.
5. Is there a limit on rent rewards?
Yes, you can earn up to 100,000 points per year on rent payments.
Additional Benefits of the Bilt Mastercard
Bilt Homeowner Benefits
Bilt also offers options for cardholders who plan to transition from renting to homeownership.
Points can be used toward a down payment on a mortgage, helping renters move toward their financial goals.
Access to Bilt’s Rent Day Promotion
Every first day of the month, Bilt offers Rent Day promotions where users can earn double points on all purchases (except rent).
This is a great opportunity to maximize your rewards.
Exclusive Events and Cultural Experiences
Cardholders gain VIP access to unique events, such as concerts, art exhibitions, and private dining experiences.
Conclusion
The Bilt Mastercard is an innovative credit card that provides renters with a unique opportunity to earn rewards on rent without extra fees.
With strong travel benefits, valuable point transfers, and no annual fee, it stands out as one of the best credit cards for those who want to maximize their everyday spending.
However, the five-purchase-per-month requirement, lack of a welcome bonus, and limited bonus categories may be downsides for some users.
If you are a renter who wants to earn points on rent while benefiting from travel rewards, the Bilt Mastercard is a great choice.
For those who strategically use the Bilt Mastercard, it offers exceptional value and significant long-term benefits.
