# Avianca Lifemiles Expiration Rule: Redemptions Don't Reset the Clock

_May 29 13:00_

Tags: Avianca, Avianca Lifemiles, loyalty program, policy change, airline, award redemption, program change

Avianca Lifemiles expires 12 months after last accrual activity; unlike most programs, redeeming miles does not reset the expiration clock, only earning or transferring miles does

## Summary

Avianca Lifemiles has a miles expiration policy that differs from most other airline programs. Lifemiles usually expire 12 months after the last accrual transaction. Elite members and cardholders who earn miles through an Avianca credit card get a longer 24-month expiration window. Crucially, redeeming miles does not reset the expiration clock—only earning new miles (such as transferring rewards or buying miles) does. This is a costly detail for travelers who redeem their balance and assume the clock resets

## Why it matters

Affects 2 airline programs (Avianca, United Airlines). Relevant for Choice Privileges elites and award redeemers. Card-issuer angle via American Express.

## Sources cited

- [The Points Guy](https://thepointsguy.com/news/miles-expiration-mistake) — Reader mistake story: 1 small misunderstanding cost me 100,000 miles

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