IDFC First Bank has announced changes to its benefits, perks, and rewards for the upcoming year, affecting its credit card users. The changes, which will be implemented in January and April 2026, aim to make rewards more structured and linked to spending and payment habits. Here are the key updates:
Changes in Premium Credit Cards (Ashva and Mayura)
- International spending rewards have been reduced from 10X to 5X reward points by default. To earn the higher reward rate, cardholders must spend at least ₹20,000 in a billing cycle.
- Failure to pay the minimum amount due on time will result in no reward points for that month, regardless of spending.
Changes in Lifetime-Free Cards (Classic, Select, Wealth)
- Reward points will now be earned at a slower rate, with ₹200 spent required to earn one reward point, up from ₹150.
- Cardholders must spend above ₹20,000 per month to earn higher reward points.
Airport Lounge Access
- The number of free lounge visits has been reduced on some cards, with lounge access now based on spending.
- Select Credit Card holders will get 1 free domestic lounge visit per quarter, while Wealth Credit Card holders will get 1 domestic and 1 international lounge visit per quarter.
Other Changes
- FASTag recharges and railway ticket bookings will earn only basic reward points, with a 1% charge applicable on spends above ₹10,000 and ₹25,000, respectively.
- Travel bookings made through the IDFC FIRST Bank mobile app will earn extra reward points, with 33% extra points on hotel bookings and 20% extra points on flight bookings.
Impact on Cardholders
- Regular spenders above ₹20,000 per month can still earn decent rewards.
- Lounge access is still available, but cardholders must meet the minimum spending criteria.
- Paying credit card bills on time is crucial to earning rewards.
Overall, the changes aim to make rewards more structured and linked to spending and payment habits. While some benefits have been reduced, cardholders can still earn decent rewards by understanding the new terms and conditions. It is essential for IDFC First Bank credit card users to review the changes and adjust their spending habits accordingly to maximize their rewards.