If you’re an SBI Credit Card holder, there’s some important news that could impact how you earn and redeem your reward points. Starting April 2025, SBI Card has announced major changes to its rewards program across various popular cards. Whether you use your SBI Credit Card for online shopping, flight bookings, or day-to-day expenses, it’s crucial to understand how these changes might affect your benefits.
In this article, we’ll break down the revised reward structure, discontinued benefits, and what it means for both new and existing SBI credit card users. If you're considering getting an Instant SBI Credit Card, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Why the Changes?
The credit card landscape is constantly evolving. With rising operational costs, regulatory changes, and increased customer acquisition, SBI Card has reviewed its reward offerings to remain sustainable and competitive. However, these changes come at a cost for some loyal customers, especially those who heavily relied on SBI cards for travel and online purchases.
SimplyCLICK SBI Card – Reduced Reward Points
The SimplyCLICK SBI Card, known for its accelerated rewards on online platforms, is seeing significant modifications. Until now, users earned 10X reward points on partner platforms such as Swiggy, Myntra, Cleartrip, and others.
Effective April 2025, reward points on Swiggy have been reduced to 5X. However, you can still earn 10X on:
- Apollo 24/7
- BookMyShow
- Cleartrip
- Dominos
- Myntra
- Netmeds
- Yatra
This means food delivery lovers will see a dip in point accumulation, while travel and fashion enthusiasts can continue to enjoy existing rewards.
Air India SBI Platinum and Signature – Major Reductions
If you hold an Air India SBI Platinum or Signature Credit Card, the reward downgrade might come as a disappointment. Previously, users earned:
- 15 reward points per ₹100 spent on Air India (Platinum Card)
- 30 reward points per ₹100 spent on Air India (Signature Card)
From April 2025, these rates are slashed to just:
- 5 points per ₹100 for Platinum
- 10 points per ₹100 for Signature
The reduction significantly impacts frequent flyers who used these cards to accumulate Air India miles. It’s advisable to reconsider your travel card if you relied on SBI for mileage benefits.
Club Vistara SBI Cards – Discontinuation of Milestones
For Club Vistara SBI Credit Card holders, another significant update is the removal of milestone benefits. Earlier, customers enjoyed complimentary Vistara flight tickets on achieving annual spends. However, SBI Card has now discontinued the milestone ticket vouchers and some renewal benefits.
While the annual fee waiver based on spending continues, the loss of ticket rewards reduces the overall value of the card for frequent Vistara travelers.
Insurance Benefits Discontinued
Another key change is the removal of complimentary air accident insurance. Previously, many premium SBI Credit Cards came with a ₹50 lakh air accident cover. As of July 26, 2025, this benefit will be completely discontinued.
This may be particularly relevant for customers who opted for SBI cards due to bundled insurance features. If travel protection is a priority, consider looking into third-party coverage or alternative premium cards.
Impact on Instant SBI Credit Card Applicants
The Instant SBI Credit Card option, available through online application or via YONO SBI, has gained popularity due to its quick approval process and virtual card availability within minutes. However, new applicants should carefully evaluate the revised benefits.
If you're planning to apply for an Instant SBI Credit Card primarily for rewards and travel perks, these recent changes might influence your decision. For example:
- Instant approvals still offer convenience.
- But the value you derive from rewards has decreased on key categories like flights and food delivery.
Be sure to check the updated terms and conditions before proceeding.
Should You Switch or Stay?
For existing SBI Credit Card users, these changes may feel like a downgrade. However, whether you should continue using your card depends on your individual spending habits.
Stick with SBI Credit Card if:
- You shop regularly on Myntra, Apollo, Yatra, etc.
- You value seamless integration with SBI banking services.
- You prefer instant approvals and a large merchant acceptance network.
Consider switching if:
- You primarily used the card for Air India or Vistara travel rewards.
- You relied on air insurance coverage as a benefit.
- You expect high reward returns on food delivery and offline shopping.
Final Thoughts
The major changes to SBI Credit Card rewards effective April 2025 reflect a broader shift in how credit card issuers are restructuring loyalty programs. While some reductions in benefits may seem drastic, SBI still offers reliable services, strong brand trust, and quick approval processes through Instant SBI Credit Card options.
Before applying or renewing, make sure to compare benefits, analyze your spending behavior, and choose a card that aligns with your financial goals.
Stay informed, spend wisely, and keep maximizing your credit card benefits—because every point still counts!
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