Why are credit card rewards getting worse in 2026?

Issuers are cutting flat perks and linking lounges, cashback and milestone benefits to quarterly spends. That lowers cost for banks while still rewarding high-usage customers.

Do I still get airport lounge access on popular cards?

Often only if you meet a prior-quarter spend threshold (for example, some premium HDFC cards require around ₹60,000 in the previous quarter). Always confirm the latest issuer notice for your card.

What should I do if my card was devalued?

Map three months of SMS spends, compare effective reward rate after fees and caps, and switch the cards you swipe for food, shopping and fuel. Soft-check new cards before you cancel the old one.

Are RuPay credit cards on UPI still useful?

Yes for many people — RuPay credit on UPI can earn card rewards at QR merchants where classic cards don’t swipe. Still check category exclusions and annual fees before you rely on it.

Credit card rewards reset in India (2026): spend-linked lounges & what to do

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Credit card rewards reset in India (2026): spend-linked lounges & what to do | Spendzie