Do You Have Forgotten Money In Points Programs

Beyond Points and Perks: Making Your Rewards Programs Work for You

We have all done it, we signed up for a credit card because we were enticed by the Loyalty Points or Rewards Points program. Maybe you joined an Airline or Hotel Rewards Program or several of them, to earn perks on travel. Special rates,

As I sat down with my morning coffee recently, sorting my credit card statements and loyalty program updates that seem to multiply like rabbits these days, I couldn't help but think about how many of my estate organizing clients struggle with the same challenge: making sense of their rewards programs. It's a topic that deserves our attention, especially since over 90% of companies now offer some form of loyalty program 

Let's have an honest conversation about those points you've been accumulating. You know, the ones that make you feel wealthy when you log into your account but maybe leave you scratching your head about how to best use them? You're not alone. The truth is, many of us are leaving money on the table – real value that could be working harder for us and our families.

Here's something that stopped me in my tracks during my research: more than 65% of company revenue comes from repeat customers, which explains why these rewards programs have become increasingly generous. But here's the kicker – most of us aren't maximizing these benefits. We're like gardeners who plant the seeds but forget to water the flowers.

Think of your rewards programs as a financial garden that needs tending. The most vibrant gardens right now include credit card rewards (with programs like Capital One miles and Chase Ultimate Rewards leading the pack. Airline loyalty programs that have expanded well beyond just flight miles, and hotel programs that now offer experiences alongside stays Each has its own growth pattern, if you will.

But here's what keeps me up at night as an estate organizer: 67% of members haven't designated beneficiaries for their rewards points. Think about that for a moment. These points – which have real value – could vanish because we haven't done the proper planning. It's like having a bank account your family doesn't know about. Remember you will be bound by the terms of service for each of the accounts you have. Some points/loyalty programs do not allow points to be transferred under any circumstances, others will allow, but only once you provide the required documentation, and still others may allow transfer, but at a reduced value. 

Here is what I found in my research:

Loyalty Program Transfer Policies After Death (2025)

Airlines

American Airlines AAdvantage:
- Miles can be transferred to estate beneficiaries
- Requires death certificate and documentation
- Must be requested within 12 months of passing
- No transfer fees for estate transfers

Delta SkyMiles:
- Miles are not transferable upon death
- Accounts automatically close upon notification of death
- Exception: Executive Platinum members' miles may transfer to spouse

United MileagePlus :
- Miles can transfer to surviving spouse or beneficiary
- Requires legal documentation
- Must complete transfer within 6 months
- Processing fee may apply

Hotel Programs

Marriott Bonvoy:
- Points transferable to estate or beneficiaries
- Requires death certificate and legal documentation
- No time limit specified for claims
- No transfer fees

Hilton Honors:
- Points can transfer to estate or immediate family
- Must provide required documentation
- 12-month window to claim
- Case-by-case basis review

Credit Card Rewards

Chase Ultimate Rewards:
- Points transfer to surviving spouse/domestic partner
- Must be added as authorized user
- Required documentation varies by state
- No specified time limit

American Express Membership Rewards:
- Points typically expire upon death
- Exception: Joint account holders retain points
- Must notify within 30 days of passing
- Some states have additional protections

Important Considerations

Common Requirements:
- Death certificate
- Proof of executor status
- Copy of will (if applicable)
- Government-issued ID
- Completed claim forms

Best Practices:
- Document account information: Name, Account Number, how to access.
- Add authorized users where beneficial
- Keep beneficiary information updated
- Consider joint accounts where possible

Remember that policies can vary by jurisdiction and change over time. It's recommended to verify current policies directly with each program and consider consulting with an estate planning professional for specific guidance.

Also, remember that credit cards 

When I work with clients, I now include a section specifically for rewards programs. We document account access information, understand transfer rules, and have them discuss beneficiaries with their advisors where possible. Think of it as another instance of creating a map for your family to follow, should they need to.

Start by doing what I call a "rewards audit." Log into each of your accounts (yes, all of them – I'll wait while you gather those passwords). Check your balances, expiration dates, and earning rates. Research shows that engaged program members earn 2.5 times more value than passive participants . That's too significant to ignore.

The landscape of rewards programs in 2025 is more complex but also more valuable than ever. The average engaged member sees a return of 3-5% on their spending through strategic program use. That's not just pocket change – it's real value that deserves real attention.

So, here's my challenge to you: Set aside an hour this week to review your rewards programs. Think of it as a financial self-care session. Check those balances, review the benefits you might be missing, and most importantly, make sure you've documented everything properly for your estate plan.

Remember, these points and miles are more than just numbers on a screen – they're opportunities. Opportunities for travel, for experiences, for leaving something meaningful to your loved ones. Let's make sure we're making the most of them.

Until next time,
Judith

P.S. Don't forget to check those expiration dates! You'd be surprised how many points disappear simply because we lose track of time.