Marriott’s secret elite status upgrade: matching hilton memberships revealed!

In the world of hotel loyalty programs, status matching is a coveted perk that allows members to instantly elevate their tier without having to meet the usual qualification criteria. One of the most frequently asked questions in the loyalty space is, “Does Marriott match Hilton status?” The answer is yes, but with certain conditions and limitations. This guide will delve into the details of Marriott’s status match program, providing a comprehensive understanding of how to match Hilton status and maximize your benefits.

Understanding Marriott’s Status Match Program

Marriott’s status match program is designed to recognize loyalty from other hotel chains and encourage elite members to switch over. The program allows you to match your current status in a qualifying program to an equivalent or higher tier in Marriott Bonvoy, the loyalty program for Marriott brands.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for Marriott’s status match, you must:

• Be a current member of a qualifying hotel loyalty program
• Have held elite status in the qualifying program for at least 6 months
• Not have previously matched your status to Marriott Bonvoy within the past 12 months

Qualifying Programs

Marriott matches status from a select list of qualifying hotel loyalty programs. Hilton Honors is one of these qualifying programs, along with:

• World of Hyatt
• IHG Rewards Club
• Wyndham Rewards
• Caesar’s Rewards
• Best Western Rewards

How to Match Hilton Status to Marriott

The status match process is simple and can be completed online or over the phone. To match your Hilton Honors status, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Marriott Status Match Website: Go to the dedicated website for Marriott’s status match program.
2. Provide Your Information: Fill out the online form with your personal details, including your Marriott Bonvoy account number and Hilton Honors membership number.
3. Upload Proof of Status: Provide a copy of your Hilton Honors account statement or other documentation showing your current elite status.
4. Submit Your Request: Review your application and submit it for processing.

Note: The status match process may take up to 7 business days to complete.

Matching Status Levels

Marriott matches Hilton Honors status as follows:

• Hilton Honors Gold: Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite
• Hilton Honors Diamond: Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite
• Hilton Honors Diamond Elite: Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elite

Benefits of Matching Hilton Status to Marriott

Matching your Hilton status to Marriott offers several benefits, including:

• Instant Elite Status: Gain access to elite perks and benefits without having to earn them.
• Enhanced Room Upgrades: Enjoy complimentary upgrades to higher room categories at Marriott properties.
• Bonus Points and Nights: Earn bonus points and free nights on stays at Marriott hotels.
• Exclusive Lounge Access: Access executive lounges at participating Marriott properties for complimentary breakfast, snacks, and drinks.
• Priority Check-In and Late Check-Out: Enjoy priority check-in and late check-out to make your stays more convenient.

Limitations and Restrictions

Marriott’s status match program has certain limitations and restrictions:

• One-Time Match Only: You can only match your status to Marriott Bonvoy once every 12 months.
• Matching to Higher Tiers: Marriott will not match your status to a higher tier than the equivalent in Marriott Bonvoy.
• No Lifetime Status: Status matches do not count towards lifetime elite status in Marriott Bonvoy.

Other Ways to Earn Marriott Elite Status

If you are not eligible for status matching, there are other ways to earn Marriott elite status:

• Earn Tier Points: Stay at Marriott properties and earn tier points to qualify for Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Titanium Elite status.
• Receive a Complimentary Upgrade: Marriott occasionally offers complimentary elite status upgrades to select members.
• Co-Brand Credit Cards: Apply for a Marriott co-brand credit card to earn automatic elite status or bonus tier points.

Final Note: Elevate Your Loyalty Status

Marriott’s status match program provides a valuable opportunity to instantly elevate your elite status and enjoy exclusive perks at Marriott properties. By understanding the eligibility requirements, matching process, and limitations, you can maximize your loyalty benefits and make the most of your hotel stays.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What is the status match policy for Marriott Bonvoy?
A: Marriott matches status from select qualifying hotel loyalty programs, including Hilton Honors.

Q: How do I match my Hilton Honors status to Marriott?
A: Visit the Marriott Status Match website, provide your information, upload proof of status, and submit your request.

Q: What are the benefits of matching my Hilton status to Marriott?
A: Benefits include instant elite status, enhanced room upgrades, bonus points, exclusive lounge access, and priority check-in.

Q: Can I match my Hilton status to a higher tier in Marriott?
A: No, Marriott will only match your status to the equivalent or lower tier in Marriott Bonvoy.

Q: How long does it take to process a status match request?
A: The status match process may take up to 7 business days to complete.

Q: Can I match my status multiple times?
A: You can only match your status to Marriott Bonvoy once every 12 months.

Q: What is the difference between Gold Elite and Platinum Elite status in Marriott Bonvoy?
A: Gold Elite offers benefits such as room upgrades, bonus points, and priority check-in, while Platinum Elite includes additional perks like lounge access and late check-out.

Q: Can I earn Marriott elite status without status matching?
A: Yes, you can earn elite status by staying at Marriott properties and earning tier points, receiving a complimentary upgrade, or applying for a Marriott co-brand credit card.