Bilt Rewards is quickly cementing its spot as a major player in the points-and-miles space. Over the past few days, the rent rewards program has dropped not one, not two, but three major updates — including two exciting new airline transfer partners and a brand new redemption option for student loan payments.
Whether you’re racking up Bilt Points via rent payments or neighborhood spending, these new additions significantly increase the value and flexibility of your rewards.
- Join Bilt Rewards Here
✈️ Japan Airlines Joins Bilt Rewards as 1:1 Transfer Partner
Bilt Rewards has officially added Japan Airlines (JAL) to its growing list of 1:1 travel transfer partners.
This is a big win for award travelers, as JAL is part of the Oneworld Alliance, meaning you can redeem JAL Mileage Bank miles for flights on Japan Airlines, as well as Oneworld partners like American Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Cathay Pacific.
JAL is especially well-known for:
- ✈️ Premium cabin availability
- 💺 Top-tier business and first class experiences
- 🗾 Excellent options for travel throughout Asia
With the 1:1 transfer ratio, Bilt Points become even more powerful for booking aspirational international travel.
🛫 Southwest Airlines Added as Newest Travel Transfer Partner
In another massive move, Bilt has added Southwest Airlines as a 1:1 transfer partner. This makes Bilt one of the very few programs to offer direct transfers to Southwest Rapid Rewards, Southwest’s famously flexible frequent flyer program.
With over 100 domestic routes, Bilt Members can now:
- Transfer Bilt Points 1:1 to Rapid Rewards
- Book award flights with no blackout dates
- Enjoy Southwest’s two free checked bags
- Leverage flexible award changes and cancellations
According to Bilt, the partnership will also feature exclusive promotions and enhanced capabilities in the future.
“This collaboration allows Southwest to connect with a unique audience of renters and homeowners across the United States,” said Jonathan Clarkson, VP & Chief Product Officer at Southwest.
To start transferring, head to bilt.com/p/southwest.
🎓 Bilt Points Can Now Be Used Toward Student Loans
In a surprise (but welcome!) addition, Bilt now allows members to redeem their points at 1 cent per point toward student loan payments.
Eligible student loan providers include:
- Sallie Mae
- MOHELA
- Nelnet
- Navient
- Aidvantage
This gives Bilt a practical edge that most travel-focused rewards programs don’t offer. If you’re not traveling right now, this redemption path offers a simple, impactful way to put your points to good use.
🔁 Bilt Redemption Overview (as of April 2025)
| Redemption Option | Value per Point |
|---|---|
| Travel Transfer Partners (inc. JAL, SWA) | Up to 2+ CPP |
| Travel via Bilt Portal (Expedia) | 1.25 CPP |
| Home Down Payment | 1.5 CPP |
| Student Loan Payments | 1.0 CPP |
| Rent Payments | 1.0 CPP |
🧠 Final Thoughts
Bilt Rewards is stepping up — fast. With two major airline partnerships and a new student loan payment option, the value of Bilt Points continues to grow for renters, travelers, and budgeters alike.
Whether you’re looking to fly premium cabins with Japan Airlines, hop around the U.S. with Southwest, or knock down student debt — Bilt just became even more rewarding.
📬 Not a Bilt member yet? It’s free to join, but to maximize points, consider getting the Bilt Mastercard or paying rent through the Bilt app.