Begin with the cash alternative.
Cash is flexible, certain, and requires no award search. It is the baseline—not the lesser prize.
The decision desk · Free tool
Points or cash?
Put a real redemption into the comparison. The calculator values the points against something you would actually book or buy, then gives cash credit for being simpler and certain.
The useful answer
The points have the stronger estimated value.
Choose them only if the redemption is genuinely available, near term, and worth the extra effort.
- Your point value
- 1.50¢
- Estimated value of the points offered
- $75.00
- Cash offered
- $50.00
This is a decision estimate, not a promise of availability or financial advice.
The method behind the answer
Value a trip you would really take.
Subtract award taxes and fees from the cash price you would willingly pay, then divide by the points required.
Require a meaningful advantage.
If points win by only a little, cash usually deserves the nod. Availability, transfer risk, and effort have value too.