What Happens If You Sell Southwest Rapid Rewards?

Southwest Rapid Rewards is one of the most beloved airline loyalty programs in the U.S.—and for good reason. With no blackout dates, generous baggage policies, and easy-to-understand point redemptions, it's a frequent flyer's dream. But what happens when you find yourself with a growing stash of Rapid Rewards points and no travel plans on the horizon?

That’s where a tempting option comes into view: selling your points. But before you hop on board that flight (pun fully intended), it’s essential to understand what happens if you decide to sell Southwest Rapid Rewards and whether the risk is worth the reward.

Is It Legal (and Safe) to Sell Southwest Rapid Rewards?

Let’s get this out of the way—technically, no, it’s not permitted. Southwest’s program rules clearly state that members cannot sell, purchase, broker, or barter Rapid Rewards points for cash or other compensation. Doing so could result in your account being suspended, your points being forfeited, or your status being wiped out faster than a boarding group A ticket during peak travel season.

However, that hasn’t stopped a secondary market from popping up. Many third-party services allow you to “sell” your miles by acting as intermediaries. These companies often make bookings on behalf of buyers using your points in exchange for a cash payout. While this workaround may feel clever, Southwest’s terms still view this as a violation.

If you do decide to sell Southwest Rapid Rewards points, be aware of the risks—losing your points, losing your Companion Pass (ouch), or getting your account permanently closed.

The Pros: Why Travelers Still Consider Selling Their Rapid Rewards

So why would anyone even think about doing it?

1. Immediate Cash Value

Sometimes life throws curveballs—unexpected bills, canceled travel plans, or simply the need for liquidity. If you’re not planning to fly anytime soon, selling your points might seem like a smarter move than letting them sit idle. After all, Rapid Rewards points don’t earn interest in your account.

2. Low Point Redemption Value on Short Flights

Southwest points are typically worth around 1.5 cents each, but depending on when and how you redeem them, that value can dip. If you’re finding yourself needing to burn 20,000 points for a $150 flight, it’s natural to wonder if there’s a better use for those points—like turning them into cash.

3. Travel Plans Have Changed

Travelers who once flew regularly for work or had a Companion Pass may no longer be in the air as often. If you're not leveraging the perks anymore, those Rapid Rewards could feel more like digital paperweights. Selling them might feel like a strategic way to recoup value.

The Cons: Risks That Could Derail Your Loyalty Status

Now, let’s talk about turbulence.

1. Account Suspension and Point Forfeiture

Southwest has the right to close your account, cancel your flights, and confiscate all your accrued points if it discovers you violated its terms. Even if the sale was through a third party, if your account is flagged, it could be game over.

2. Loss of Status and Perks

If you’re holding an A-List, A-List Preferred, or (gasp!) a Companion Pass, selling your points could cause you to lose those perks. Southwest doesn’t mess around when it comes to enforcing its terms.

3. Unreliable Third-Party Sellers

Not all websites are created equal. You could end up working with a shady buyer who disappears before paying—or worse, misuses your account details. The risk here isn’t just losing points but potentially compromising your personal information, too.

Alternatives to Selling Southwest Rapid Rewards

If you’re reconsidering, don’t worry—there are safer ways to put your points to good use.

1. Book Flights for Friends or Family

Southwest allows you to book flights for anyone using your Rapid Rewards. If someone in your life needs a flight, offer to book it and have them reimburse you. It’s a simple, rule-abiding way to unlock value.

2. Redeem for Hotels, Cars, and Gift Cards

While not the best value per point, Southwest’s "More Rewards" portal lets you use points for hotel stays, rental cars, and more. It’s a decent backup if you can’t use them for flights.

3. Donate Your Points

If you’re feeling philanthropic, Southwest allows members to donate their points to a list of approved charities. No, you won’t get a cash payout—but you will earn some good karma and possibly a tax write-off.

4. Trade for a Favor

We’re not saying you should barter your points, but if you book a flight for your best friend and they owe you a fancy dinner in return... well, that’s just friends being generous, right?

Weigh the Risk Before You Sell Southwest Rapid Rewards

If you're sitting on a pile of Southwest points and wondering what to do with them, selling might seem like a quick fix. But it's not without serious risks. Southwest has a clear policy and breaking it could cost you more than just your points—it could ground your travel perks for good.

Instead, explore alternative ways to use your points that stay within the airline’s rules. And if you're still itching for a payout, stay tuned—our next blog will show you how to navigate this gray area a little more strategically.

Curious whether you can actually cash out your Southwest points? Don’t miss our next blog, Sell Southwest Rapid Rewards for Cash: What You Need to Know Before You Do, where we break down what’s allowed, what’s risky, and how to squeeze real value from your miles — even if cold hard cash isn’t directly on the table.