Hertz revamps loyalty program, points expiry rules

Car rental giant Hertz is rolling out two major changes to its Gold Plus Rewards loyalty scheme, impacting how members can use and manage their points.

A new cancellation policy comes into effect from September 1, followed by changes to the expiration rules for accumulated points.  

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards cancellations

For all vehicle rentals beginning September 1, 2024, Hertz will implement a revised cancellation policy for reservations made using Gold Plus Rewards points.

Under the new policy, customers can cancel a reservation at any time before the scheduled pickup without incurring a cancellation fee.

The full amount of points used for the booking will be credited back to the member’s account.

This change offers members increased flexibility when redeeming points, allowing them to adjust travel plans without the risk of losing points due to last-minute changes. 

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards points expiry

Hertz is also extending setting a ‘hard date’ at which your points expire.

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards points currently expire after 12 months of inactivity.

As of December 31, 2024, those points will also expire five years from the date they were earned, regardless of rental activity.

Hertz and Virgin Australia

As a Virgin Australia partner, frequent flyers can earn Velocity Points on hires in Australia and New Zealand, while also unlocking a free 'status match’ for Hertz Gold Plus Rewards.

Velocity Gold members can claim complimentary Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Five Star status, while Velocity Platinum members  jump straight up to the top-tier of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Presidents Circle.