IHG One Rewards is once again giving members an opportunity to buy Elite Qualifying Points (EQPs) to retain or upgrade their status for 2026 — a valuable last chance for travelers who might otherwise lose their hard-earned tier.
What’s the Status Buy Back Offer
- Eligible Members Only: You must receive the offer from IHG (targeted).
- Offer Period: Dec 16 – Dec 31, 2025 (inclusive).
- You can purchase Elite Qualifying Points to either stay at your current level or upgrade to a higher tier, such as from Platinum to Diamond Elite.
- EQPs count toward Elite status but are not refundable.
- Once you buy enough points to cross the qualifying threshold, your status for the rest of 2025 and the full calendar year of 2026 will be updated automatically.
- EQPs also act like redeemable points, so you can use them for award stays too (depending on offer rules).
Typical Requirements (illustrative):
- Gold: 40,000 EQPs
- Platinum: 60,000 EQPs
- Diamond: 120,000 EQPs
(Your exact purchase options and prices may vary.)
What This Means for You
Retain hard-earned perks: If you nearly made your threshold, buying points can lock in benefits like bonus points, upgrades, late checkout, etc.
Fast upgrade: Members who expect more stays in 2026 may jump up a tier without hitting the full night requirement.
Status valid through 2026: Once purchased and applied, your renewed/upgraded status lasts the rest of 2025 and all of 2026.