💰 Earn More Points in Multiplayer Mode

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If you're playing the points and miles game solo, you might be leaving rewards on the table. Bringing in a partner (usually called a "Player 2") or even your kids, parents, or friends can unlock a whole new level of earning potential. Between referrals, earning welcome offers more than once, and splitting loyalty programs, playing the game as a team can double or even triple your rewards.

However, things can also get messy fast if you don’t have a plan. So here are some dos and don’ts for making it all work. 

I also dive deep into this topic on Ep #249 with Kai, who earned 5 million points with his partner in 2024. 

✅ Dos: How to Win in Multiplayer Mode

These are the habits, systems, and strategies that make playing the points game as a team both efficient and rewarding, which help you earn more without doubling the effort.

👥 Treat Player 2 as a Multiplier, Not a Clone

The biggest benefit of having a Player 2 is the ability to open more cards, earn more bonuses, and stack referral points. You can each grab a welcome bonus and earn referral points by referring each other; it’s the closest thing to compounding in the points game.

For us, while we often get the same card when there's an unprecedented welcome offer, sometimes we split up on cards to cover more surface area. One of us focuses on Bonvoy, Hyatt and Citi, while the other focuses on Hilton and Mesa. It keeps things organized, diversifies our points, and helps us reach elite status faster without overlapping efforts.

🛠 Use Tools to Simplify 

Managing multiple players means juggling logins, passwords, spending goals, and two-factor authentication codes. It can get complicated fast. The right tools make it more manageable. 

• Password manager like 1Password to share logins safely
• Monarch Money or Copilot Money (free 2 months with code HACKS2) to track spending and balances
• CardPointers (get 30% off here or 50% for ATH members) to sync all card-linked offers in one place
• Apple Shortcuts to automate forwarding 2FA texts
• Google Voice for a second number for 2FA texts

💬 Create an Effective Communication System

You can’t manage multiple players effectively without clear communication. Create a shared spreadsheet or note that tracks open cards, deadlines, and offers. Always let your partner know before opening or closing any cards, and if you get pushback, considering framing decisions in terms of the value.

❌ Dont's: What to Avoid in Multiplayer Mode

Avoid these common mistakes that can slow you down, cause unnecessary stress, or leave valuable points (and goodwill) on the table.

🚫 Don't Add Authorized Users Without a Plan

Adding your partner as an authorized user might seem convenient, but it can backfire. Authorized user accounts often count towards your 5/24 status, which limits how many cards you can open. Unless there’s a clear benefit, like earning extra loyalty points or lounge access, you can probably just share account info in a password manager and add each others' cards to Apple/Google Pay.

🙅‍♂️ Don't Assume Player 2 Wants to Go “All In”

Not everyone wants to manage a spreadsheet of offers or referrals. Have an honest conversation early on about how involved your Player 2 wants to be. Some will want to know every detail; others just want the free flights and upgrades. Either approach can work as long as you’re aligned.

🧾 Don’t Forget About Taxes

Referral bonuses are great, but they also count as taxable income. If you’ve earned a lot of referrals, expect multiple 1099s, usually one per card you refer from. It’s not a huge issue, but keeping good records and setting aside a little for taxes will save you a ton of stress when you need to file.

💭 Final Thoughts

Playing the points game with multiple players is one of the best ways to take your strategy to the next level. With the right systems, communication, and mindset, you can easily double or triple your rewards and also make the process enjoyable for everyone involved. By tackling the logistics head-on and staying thoughtful about both the tactical and emotional sides, you’ll be able to harness the power of multiple players to earn millions of points, stress-free.

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