Hilton’s status changes bring easier qualification and a new elite tier

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Hilton Honors just unveiled a major refresh to its elite membership program — and while loyalty changes often bring bad news for travelers, this update is quite the opposite. Starting next year, it'll be even easier to earn status, and for the true road warrior, Hilton is introducing a brand-new ultra-premium tier.

Here’s everything you need to know about what’s changing in the Hilton Honors program.

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Starting in 2026, the number of nights required to earn both Gold and Diamond elite status will drop significantly, making status easier than ever to achieve.

These lower thresholds give more Hilton Honors members access to valuable perks like room upgrades, lounge access, complimentary breakfast, and bonus points. Moving forward, members will need to meet the following requirements:

• Hilton Honors Silver status: 10 nights, four stays, or $2,500 in spend (currently 10 nights, four stays, or 25,000 qualifying points)
• Hilton Honors Gold status: 25 nights, 15 stays, or $6,000 in spend (currently 40 nights, 20 stays, or 75,000 qualifying points)
• Hilton Honors Diamond status: 50 nights, 25 stays, or $11,500 in spend (currently 60 nights, 30 stays or 120,000 qualifying points)

The most exciting news with Hilton's status revamp is an even higher status level called Diamond Reserve. Qualification is steep, at 80 nights or 40 stays and $18,000 in annual eligible spend, but, if you're on the road quite often, the benefits are quite promising.

The perks you'll receive at the Diamond Reserve tier include:

• Confirmable Upgrade Reward. Diamond Reserve members will receive one Confirmable Upgrade Reward per year, allowing you to redeem at the time of booking (for a stay of up to seven nights). Members will be able to earn a second reward at the 120-night milestone or by earning 30,000 points.
• Guaranteed 4pm late checkout. Stay in your room longer, including at resorts (a rarity) and conference hotels.
• Premium Club access. Receive access to Hilton's Premium Clubs, which include elevated food and beverage offerings.
• Space-available upgrades. Receive priority access (ahead of Diamond members) to upgraded rooms, which can be confirmed as early as three days before check-in.
• 120% point bonus. Earn even more bonus Hilton Honors points.

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While the majority of the announcement is a positive one, there are a few drawbacks coming in 2026. Rollover nights will be eliminated going forward (although 2025 nights will still roll over to 2026), and points earnings at Homewood Suites and Spark by Hilton will be cut in half —from 10 points per dollar to just 5x.

These changes will impact some travelers more than others, but for most members, the program enhancements should far outweigh the downsides.

Overall, I'm a big fan of these changes — they're especially positive for Hilton loyalists and those chasing status. The brand is making its traditional tiers more accessible, while awarding its most valuable customers even more.

If you've been on the fence about pursuing Hilton Honors status, these changes could make 2026 the right time to do it.

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