The Points Daily — August 3, 2026
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Amex Platinum cardholders: Check for $20 off $60 at Walmart
American Express is running a targeted offer for Platinum cardholders good through September 2. Most see $20 off $60 at Walmart.com, repeatable twice in the same window; some are seeing $15 off $50 instead. The catch: these are targeted offers that don't reach everyone at once, and they can disappear without warning.
Why it matters: If you already buy at Walmart, this is free money. If you don't, Walmart gift cards count, which opens the door to turning the discount into cash via resale or future spending.
TPD take: Log into your Amex account right now and check the offers tab. Don't assume you have it just because someone else does. If it's there, stack both uses before September 2.
Source: Doctor of Credit
WestJet strike grounds most flights during peak travel weekend
WestJet flight attendants struck at 2:01 AM Eastern on August 2 after a 99% vote in favor of walking, citing stalled contract negotiations over ground pay. The airline has canceled virtually all mainline flights during one of Canada's busiest travel weekends with no immediate resolution in sight.
Why it matters: WestJet is legally required to rebook passengers on the next available flight, including competitors' planes—but that assumes seats exist. During a peak weekend with industry-wide capacity constraints, rebooking can mean days of delays or forced acceptance of poor alternatives.
TPD take: If you're booked on WestJet in the next week, assume your flight will be disrupted. Map out alternate routings to your destination now using other Canadian carriers or cross-border US options. Don't wait for WestJet to call.
Source: One Mile at a Time
JetBlue Citi cardholders can earn $50 back on $400 spend
Citi Merchant Offers are running a promotion for cardholders: $50 back on a single JetBlue Airways purchase of $400 or more through September 30, 2026. The offer appears targeted and is showing up on multiple Citi card products.
Why it matters: If you hold the Citi Strata Premier Card, you can stack this $50 rebate on top of 3x points per dollar on airfare, multiplying the value of your JetBlue booking. Even on a lower-earning Citi card, this is a clean discount if a flight is already on your radar.
TPD take: Check your Citi Merchant Offers tab today. The offer requires a single $400+ purchase, not smaller bookings stacked together. If you already have JetBlue travel planned, this claim is worth taking.
Source: Upgraded Points
Chase Sapphire Lounges exit Priority Pass in two weeks
Chase Sapphire Lounges are being removed from Priority Pass access on August 15, 2026. Right now, Priority Pass members get one free visit per year plus $75 for each additional entry. After that date, access will be restricted to Chase Sapphire Reserve and Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business cardholders only.
Why it matters: Priority Pass benefits are already narrow for most programs; losing Sapphire Lounge access eliminates a useful redemption option for those considering a Priority Pass membership or actively using it for lounge visits.
TPD take: If you hold Priority Pass but not a Sapphire Reserve card, book any planned Sapphire Lounge visit before August 15. After that, the only way in is to apply for the Reserve or hold it through a business account.
Source: Eye of the Flyer
Qatar Airways Boston–Kochi roundtrip for $867 all-in
Qatar Airways is pricing Boston to Kochi, India roundtrips at $867 including all taxes. Travel windows are mid-September through early November and again February through early March 2027, with Sunday–Thursday departure and return days only. A Sunday overnight stay is required, and bookings must be made at least three days ahead.
Why it matters: Kochi is a gateway to southern India and a less-trafficked destination than Delhi or Mumbai, which can mean better prices and fewer crowds. $867 is competitive for a long-haul Asia roundtrip in that region.
TPD take: The day-of-week and Sunday stay restrictions are tight and will exclude most travelers. If your dates align—you're departing midweek and can stay a Sunday night—move fast. These economy fares to India can close quickly.
Source: The Flight Deal
Steal of the Day: Lake Ridge Bank $250 checking bonus
Lake Ridge Bank, a Wisconsin-based regional institution, is offering $250 when you open a new checking account and meet deposit and activity requirements. The bonus has been extended through August 31.
Why it matters: This is a straightforward bank bonus with no exotic strings attached. The catch is geography—you need to be in or near Lake Ridge's Wisconsin footprint to qualify.
TPD take: If you're a Wisconsin resident or nearby and can handle a new account setup, this is free money expiring this month. Check the bank's eligibility requirements and apply before August 31.
Source: Doctor of Credit
Card of the Day: Bank of America's free museum admission
Bank of America credit and debit cardholders get free general admission to one of 200 participating museums on the first full weekend of every month. This August's window has passed, but the benefit repeats.
Why it matters: If you live near a participating museum, this is a no-cost perk that covers admission. If you don't, the benefit is worthless.
TPD take: Mark your calendar for September's first full weekend. The offer only works if you remember to use it and have an eligible museum nearby. Check the participating list before planning a visit.
Source: Miles to Memories
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