What To Know
- Upon the death of a member, their points will expire and cannot be transferred or inherited to another individual.
- By redeeming points before death, gifting them to loved ones, or donating them to charity, members can ensure that the rewards they’ve earned will continue to bring joy and make a difference.
- Can I transfer Marriott points to a family member after a member’s death.
The world of loyalty programs offers countless perks, but what happens when the points collector passes away? Can you inherit Marriott points and continue enjoying the rewards they’ve accumulated? This comprehensive guide will delve into Marriott’s policies and explore the possibilities of inheriting points.
Marriott’s Inheritance Policy
Can you inherit Marriott points?
Unfortunately, no, Marriott does not allow the inheritance of points. Upon the death of a member, their points will expire and cannot be transferred or inherited to another individual.
What Happens to Marriott Points After Death?
When a Marriott member passes away, their points will typically expire within a certain period. The expiration period varies depending on the member’s elite status:
- Basic members: Points expire after 24 months of inactivity
- Silver Elite members: Points expire after 36 months of inactivity
- Gold Elite members: Points expire after 48 months of inactivity
- Platinum Elite members: Points expire after 60 months of inactivity
- Titanium Elite members: Points expire after 72 months of inactivity
Alternatives to Inheriting Points
While Marriott points cannot be inherited, there are alternative ways to preserve the value of accumulated points:
1. Redeem Points Before Death
Encourage the member to redeem their points for experiences, stays, or other rewards before they pass away.
2. Gift Points to Family or Friends
Marriott members can transfer points to other Marriott Bonvoy members. Consider gifting points to family or friends who can use them.
3. Donate Points to Charity
Marriott points can be donated to various charities, allowing the member’s legacy to live on through acts of kindness.
Other Considerations
1. Inactivity Periods
If the member is inactive for an extended period before their death, their points may have already expired.
2. Elite Status
The member’s elite status may affect the expiration period of their points. Higher-tier members have longer expiration periods.
3. Estate Planning
It’s recommended that Marriott members include their points account information in their estate planning documents. This will ensure that their wishes regarding their points are known.
Wrap-Up: Preserving the Value of Marriott Points
Although Marriott points cannot be directly inherited, there are alternative options to preserve their value. By redeeming points before death, gifting them to loved ones, or donating them to charity, members can ensure that the rewards they’ve earned will continue to bring joy and make a difference.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Can I inherit Marriott points from a deceased family member?
No, Marriott points cannot be inherited.
2. What happens to Marriott points when a member dies?
Points will expire within a certain period based on the member’s elite status.
3. Is there any way to preserve Marriott points after a member’s death?
Yes, consider redeeming points, gifting them, or donating them to charity before the member passes away.
4. How long do Marriott points expire after a member’s death?
Expiration periods vary based on elite status, ranging from 24 to 72 months.
5. Can I transfer Marriott points to a family member after a member’s death?
No, points cannot be transferred after a member’s death.
