What To Know
- Marriott Bonvoy, the renowned loyalty program associated with the Marriott hotel chain, offers its members a wide range of benefits, including the ability to earn and redeem points for stays at Marriott properties worldwide.
- If you plan to gift or redeem points for someone else, it’s crucial to obtain their consent and ensure that they are fully aware of the terms and conditions of the program.
- Using your Marriott points for someone else can be a thoughtful way to share the joy of travel with loved ones or support charitable causes.
Marriott Bonvoy, the renowned loyalty program associated with the Marriott hotel chain, offers its members a wide range of benefits, including the ability to earn and redeem points for stays at Marriott properties worldwide. However, a common question among members is whether they can use their Marriott points for someone else. The answer to this question is both yes and no, depending on the specific circumstances.
Gifting Points
One way to use your Marriott points for someone else is by gifting them. Marriott allows members to transfer points to other Bonvoy accounts, making it possible to share points with friends, family, or colleagues. To gift points, you must be a member in good standing with an active Bonvoy account. The minimum transfer amount is 1,000 points, and there is a maximum limit of 100,000 points per calendar year.
Redeeming Points for Others
Another option is to redeem your Marriott points for stays or experiences on behalf of someone else. This can be done through the Marriott Bonvoy website or mobile app. When booking a reservation, you can specify a different guest name and contact information. However, it’s important to note that the person using the reservation must be present at check-in and provide a valid form of identification.
Restrictions and Limitations
While it’s possible to use your Marriott points for someone else, there are certain restrictions and limitations to keep in mind:
- Eligibility: Only Bonvoy members in good standing with an active account can gift or redeem points for others.
- Transfer Fees: Marriott charges a transfer fee of 10% for all point transfers.
- Redemption Restrictions: You can only redeem points for eligible stays or experiences. Certain properties and room types may have restrictions.
- Identity Verification: The person using the reservation must be present at check-in and provide a valid form of identification.
- Taxes and Fees: The recipient of the gifted points or redeemed stay may be responsible for any applicable taxes and fees.
Exceptions and Special Cases
In certain situations, you may be able to use your Marriott points for someone else without violating the program’s terms and conditions:
- Family Members: Marriott allows members to use their points for stays by immediate family members, such as spouses, children, or parents.
- Employees: Some Marriott properties offer employee discounts or promotions that allow employees to book reservations using their personal Bonvoy accounts.
- Charity: Marriott has partnered with various charities that accept point donations. You can donate your points to these organizations to support their charitable initiatives.
Ethical Considerations
While it’s technically possible to use your Marriott points for someone else, it’s important to consider the ethical implications of doing so. If you plan to gift or redeem points for someone else, it’s crucial to obtain their consent and ensure that they are fully aware of the terms and conditions of the program.
In a nutshell: Sharing the Joy of Travel
Using your Marriott points for someone else can be a thoughtful way to share the joy of travel with loved ones or support charitable causes. By understanding the program’s rules and restrictions, you can navigate the process smoothly and make the most of this valuable benefit.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I transfer Marriott points to anyone?
A: No, you can only transfer points to other Bonvoy accounts in good standing.
Q: What is the minimum number of points I can transfer?
A: The minimum transfer amount is 1,000 points.
Q: How much does it cost to transfer Marriott points?
A: Marriott charges a transfer fee of 10% for all point transfers.
Q: Can I use my Marriott points to book a stay for someone else?
A: Yes, you can redeem your points for stays or experiences on behalf of someone else, but they must be present at check-in.
Q: Can I use my Marriott points to pay for someone else’s taxes and fees?
A: No, the recipient of the gifted points or redeemed stay may be responsible for any applicable taxes and fees.
Q: Can I donate my Marriott points to charity?
A: Yes, Marriott has partnered with various charities that accept point donations.
