Marriott's Letting You Redeem Points to Keep Your Elite Status
Did you end 2015 without meeting the stay requirement to re-qualify for Marriott elite status? All hope is not lost — Marriott's now offering you an opportunity to "buy back" your elite status by redeeming a fixed number of points. To participate, simply email EliteBuyBack16@Marriott.com with your name, Rewards number and which of the options below you'd like to select:
- Buy back Platinum for 40,000 points
- Buy back Gold for 25,000 points
- Buy back Silver for 7,500 points
You can also call Marriott at (800) 321-7396 and tell the rep that you'd like to buy back your status. You have until April 1 to make the request.
Should you do it?
TPG values Marriott Rewards points at 0.7 cents each, so you'll be using between $52.50 and $280 worth of points here, depending on which status you're planning to buy back. Of course, you can get more value out of your points, such as with a redemption like this. Last year, contributor Nick Ewen valued Marriott Platinum status at $2,110, thanks to the bonus points, daily breakfast and room upgrades you'll receive. (Note that you can only redeem for the same elite level you held in 2015.)
Marriott Platinum members also receive complimentary United MileagePlus Premier Silver status thanks to the duo's RewardsPlus partnership. If you're planing to travel with Marriott or United this year, it could be worth redeeming points to re-qualify. Also, with Marriott and Starwood expected to merge later this year, there's a chance your Marriott status could get you perks with SPG before 2016 is through.
H/T: View from the Wing
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