BILT just rolled out BILT 2.0 with the card issuer Cardless, and the program looks very different compared to the past Wells Fargo version.

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, Justin Vacula and frequent co-host Darren break down the new BILT credit cards—including Palladium, Obsidian, and BILT Blue with a focus on real-world value, rewards math, and the new BILT Cash system.

We cover what’s changing, what’s worth it, and what to watch out for: earning structures, annual fees, potential signup bonus value, and how these updates impact points-and-miles strategy for renters and non-renters.

We also dig into transfer partners, optimization ideas, and the biggest criticisms and risks people are discussing, including listener questions about the transition and potential issues.

If you’re trying to decide whether to keep BILT, upgrade, downgrade, or ignore the new lineup entirely, this episode is your BILT 2.0 guide highlighting positives, negatives, and areas BILT can improve on.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro – BILT 2.0 is here

00:44 What changed in the BILT 2.0 rollout

03:06 BILT Palladium card: perks, fees, and who it’s for

07:15 BILT Obsidian card: earning rates, benefits, value

12:59 BILT Blue card: no-fee option + basics

19:51 Announcements/sponsors

20:53 BILT Cash explained (what it is + why it matters)

27:07 Criticisms of the new BILT model

28:18 Complexity, ecosystem concerns, and fine print

29:55 Listener questions: worries, adjustments, and strategy

31:04 Card transition issues + what to expect

34:36 Rewards math: how to evaluate value & opportunity cost

42:11 Side-by-side comparison: Palladium vs Obsidian vs Blue

47:22 Final thoughts + what we’re watching next

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