Can I buy points to upgrade to Select Plus?

[moosejunky99]

Hello,

Can i buy points to upgrade my account to Select Plus in case i only need a few more points to make next tier?

Thanks
Moosejunky99

**Sorry if this was asked already**

 

[TinCan782]

I don't believe so. Status is achieved with TQPs...Tier Qualifying Points.
TQPs must be earned by Amtrak travel and/or use of the AGR credit card.
Your regular points balance has little to do with TQPs.

 

[TinCan782]

Here is Amtrak's description of TQPs...
WHAT'S A TIER QUALIFYING POINT?
Tier Qualifying Points count towards your Amtrak Guest Rewards tier status and are earned each calendar year by traveling on Amtrak. You can receive additional TQPs by traveling in Business Class or Acela First Class, or as an Amtrak Guest Rewards Preferred Mastercard® cardholder.

Member Benefits | Amtrak Guest Rewards

Every ride counts as an Amtrak Guest Rewards member. Learn about the benefits of membership, including Select, Select Plus and Select Executive status.

www.amtrak.com

 

[moosejunky99]

Here is Amtrak's description of TQPs...
WHAT'S A TIER QUALIFYING POINT?
Tier Qualifying Points count towards your Amtrak Guest Rewards tier status and are earned each calendar year by traveling on Amtrak. You can receive additional TQPs by traveling in Business Class or Acela First Class, or as an Amtrak Guest Rewards Preferred Mastercard® cardholder.

Member Benefits | Amtrak Guest Rewards

Every ride counts as an Amtrak Guest Rewards member. Learn about the benefits of membership, including Select, Select Plus and Select Executive status.

www.amtrak.com

Okay cool..

Thanks for the information. Looks like a NO to me haha

 

[BCL]

Not sure when the last time there was a double TQP points bonus.

 

[jis]

Not sure when the last time there was a double TQP points bonus.

There was one in 2021 and 2022 IIRC.

 

[TinCan782]

There was one in 2021 and 2022 IIRC.

That sounds about right.
EDIT: I also recall one about 2017...it popped up while on a trip!

 

[Anderson]

Interestingly, some airlines have generally let folks buy their version of TQPs if you're a bit short at the end of a given year. I'm just a little surprised that Amtrak hasn't tried to monetize that.

 

[Devil's Advocate]

AA will sell a year of Gold/Ruby for $400. Do be aware that Gold/Ruby mainly improves Basic Economy travel and not much else. Technically it can get you upgraded on nearly empty flights but most of the time it’s only good for Y+ at T-24 and they expect 40k to maintain.