What To Know
- Members can designate a beneficiary to receive their Marriott Bonvoy account balance in the event of their death.
- It is important to note that Marriott points are not considered an asset in the eyes of the law.
- However, if a member designates a beneficiary to receive their points, the value of those points may be subject to estate taxes.
Marriott Bonvoy points are a valuable asset for frequent travelers, offering access to exclusive rewards and experiences. But what happens to these points when a member passes away? Can Marriott points be inherited?
Understanding the Marriott Bonvoy Program
The Marriott Bonvoy program is a loyalty program that rewards members for their stays, purchases, and other activities with Marriott International brands. Members earn points that can be redeemed for free nights, upgrades, and other benefits.
Marriott Points Inheritance Policy
Unfortunately, Marriott points cannot be inherited directly to beneficiaries or family members. The program’s terms and conditions explicitly state that points are non-transferable, meaning they cannot be passed on to others.
Exceptions to the Policy
In certain circumstances, Marriott may consider transferring points to a surviving spouse or domestic partner. However, this is a rare exception and is subject to the following conditions:
- The surviving spouse or partner must provide proof of their relationship to the deceased member.
- The request must be made within 6 months of the member’s passing.
- Marriott reserves the sole discretion to grant or deny the transfer.
Alternative Options
While Marriott points cannot be inherited directly, there are alternative ways to pass on their value:
- Designate a Beneficiary: Members can designate a beneficiary to receive their Marriott Bonvoy account balance in the event of their death. This can be done through the Marriott Bonvoy website or by contacting customer service.
- Convert to Gift Cards: Marriott points can be converted to gift cards for Marriott properties or other affiliated businesses. These gift cards can then be passed on to family members or friends.
- Use Points for Legacy Trips: Members can use their points to book memorable trips for their loved ones before their passing. This allows them to create lasting memories and pass on the value of their points indirectly.
Estate Planning Considerations
It is important to note that Marriott points are not considered an asset in the eyes of the law. Therefore, they are not subject to inheritance taxes or probate. However, if a member designates a beneficiary to receive their points, the value of those points may be subject to estate taxes.
Protecting Your Marriott Points
To protect your Marriott points from being lost or misused, it is recommended to:
- Keep your account information confidential.
- Designate a beneficiary to ensure the points are passed on to your desired recipient.
- Consider converting points to gift cards for safekeeping.
Summary: Preserving the Legacy of Marriott Points
While Marriott points cannot be inherited directly, there are alternative options available to pass on their value to loved ones. By understanding the program’s policies and exploring these alternatives, members can ensure that their Marriott points continue to create lasting memories and experiences for generations to come.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I transfer my Marriott points to my child after I pass away?
A: No, Marriott points cannot be transferred directly to beneficiaries.
Q: Can I designate my spouse as a beneficiary for my Marriott points?
A: Yes, surviving spouses or domestic partners may be eligible to receive the points if they provide proof of their relationship within 6 months of the member’s passing.
Q: What is the best way to pass on my Marriott points to my family?
A: Designating a beneficiary, converting points to gift cards, or using them for legacy trips are all viable options.
