Quick Tips: Boost your points and miles using Uber, Lyft, and Starbucks apps

Credit cards (especially for their welcome bonuses) top our list for easily accumulating points and miles. Additionally, consider shopping through an online portal like Rakuten to earn extra cash back or rewards points on your purchases.

You might have missed a straightforward method to rack up points and miles: linking your rewards programs in your favorite apps. Now’s the perfect moment to check your phone and ensure your accounts are connected, allowing you to earn rewards across multiple programs when grabbing coffee or using ride-hailing services.

Connect your Delta SkyMiles and Starbucks accounts

In late 2022, Delta Air Lines and Starbucks forged a partnership, enabling customers to link their rewards accounts to earn Delta SkyMiles along with Starbucks Star Rewards, and double Starbucks Stars on days when flying with Delta.

Previously, you earned miles for every dollar spent at Starbucks. However, as of June 12, the program now requires a minimum reload of $25 in your Starbucks app to earn miles.

The miles you can earn are based on the amount you reload, with potential earnings of up to 2 miles per dollar when your accounts are connected.

While you won’t be getting a free flight from your coffee orders, this is an effortless way to maximize rewards from your coffee habit—especially with pumpkin spice season approaching.

Don't forget to choose a card that provides great rewards for dining expenses.

Accumulate points and miles with Lyft.

On your Lyft app, you might think you're making the most of your earnings by using an eligible Chase card for automatic payments. However, without selecting a travel rewards program, you could be missing out on additional rewards.

To access rewards, tap on "Rewards" from the app menu.

You can link your Delta SkyMiles, Hilton Honors, Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan, or Bilt Rewards account here.

Keep in mind that various ride types generate different reward amounts in your linked account, so be sure to review Lyft's details on each program's earning potential before linking.

Pro tip: Look into Bilt Rewards, as it's often the most beneficial option, allowing you to earn 2 Bilt Points for every dollar spent, which can be transferred to various partners (including Hyatt) at a 1:1 ratio.

Connect your Uber and Marriott Bonvoy accounts.

Besides utilizing your Amex Uber credits, make sure your Marriott Bonvoy account is linked to your Uber account.

In your app's menu, choose "Partner Rewards."

Your Uber credits from your Amex card(s) will be displayed at the top. If you haven't already linked your Marriott Bonvoy account, click below to input your account details.

Once your accounts are linked, you'll begin earning Marriott points on eligible Uber transactions.

For both Uber and Lyft, think about adding a card that provides a bonus on travel purchases. A fantastic choice is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, which comes with a welcome bonus of 60,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points after you spend $4,000 within the first three months, plus a $300 statement credit on Chase Travel℠ purchases in the first year. With this card, you'll earn 2 points per dollar spent on travel, including ride-hailing, in addition to your linked account rewards.

In summary

Make sure to capitalize on opportunities to double dip rewards by linking partner programs through your frequently used apps. While you're at it, be the friend who offers to pick up coffee or order the Uber or Lyft—bonus rewards await you!