The Marriott Friends & Family Discount: A Step-by-Step Guide
Hey there! Thinking about using the Marriott Friends & Family discount for your next trip? It's a fantastic perk that can get you some great deals, but there's a specific process you need to follow. It's not as simple as just entering a code, so let's walk through it together to make sure you're set up for a smooth and enjoyable stay.
Step 1: Getting the Authorization Form is the Most Important Part
This is the most crucial step! You cannot book or use the Friends & Family discount without a valid authorization form from a current Marriott employee. It's a key part of the program's integrity and is required for check-in.
How to Obtain the Form
The Employee's Role: The Marriott associate you know will need to generate this form for you. They do this through Marriott's internal system. They'll need to enter your name and the details of your stay.
The Specifics: The form, sometimes called the "Explore Friends Rate Authorization Form," will be in your name and will be linked to their employee status. It's a personalized document, not a generic one.
The Codes: There are a few different discount codes, but the one you'll be using for a friend or extended family member is typically MMF (Marriott Friends & Family). There are other codes, like MMP for immediate family, which often offers a deeper discount, but for general friends and family, it's MMF.
Step 2: Making Your Reservation Online
Once you have your authorization form, you're ready to book your stay.
Using the MMF Code
Go to Marriott.com: Start by searching for your desired destination and dates on the official Marriott website or the Marriott Bonvoy app.
Enter the Special Code: On the search page, look for a "Special Rates" or "Corporate/Promo/SET#" dropdown box.
Input the Code: Enter MMF into the code box and click "Find Hotels." The search results will now show you the available hotels with the Friends & Family rate.
Select Your Hotel: Choose the hotel you want to stay at. Keep in mind that not all Marriott properties participate in this program, and the discount can vary widely based on the hotel, location, and time of year.
Step 3: What to Expect at Check-In
This is where the rubber meets the road. Being prepared is essential to avoid any issues or having your rate changed at the front desk.
Verification is Key
Bring the Form: You must present a printed or digital copy of the authorization form at check-in. Without it, the hotel is likely to change your rate to the standard, non-discounted price.
Show Your ID: Be ready to present a valid photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. The name on your ID must match the name on the authorization form.
Hotel Discretion: It's important to remember that individual hotels have the final say on whether to honor the rate. While it's a corporate program, the front desk staff will verify all documentation. Being polite and having your paperwork in order will make the process much smoother.
Step 4: Enjoying Your Stay and Other Perks
The Marriott Friends & Family discount isn't just about the room rate. It often comes with other benefits, but there are also a few important rules to keep in mind.
Program Details
Earning Points: The great news is that stays booked with the MMF rate are eligible to earn Marriott Bonvoy points, helping you get closer to your next reward!
Other Discounts: In addition to the room rate, you may also be eligible for other discounts on things like food, beverages, and spa treatments. Always ask at the front desk.
No Stacking: You typically cannot combine the Friends & Family rate with other discounts or promotions.
No Limit on Nights: The MMF rate usually has no limit on the number of nights you can book.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get the Marriott Friends and Family discount code?
The code itself is MMF, but you can only use it if a Marriott employee provides you with a personalized authorization form. The employee generates this form through their internal company portal.
How to book a room using the MMF code?
Go to the Marriott website or app, search for your dates, and enter MMF in the "Corporate/Promo/SET#" field under "Special Rates."
How to get the authorization form for the discount?
A current Marriott employee must generate the form for you through their internal system. You cannot get it on your own.
How to know if a hotel accepts the MMF rate?
When you search on the Marriott website with the MMF code, only participating hotels will appear in the search results with the discounted rate.
How to handle check-in with the discount?
You must present a photo ID and the personalized authorization form from the Marriott employee to the front desk staff.
How to find out the exact discount percentage?
The discount percentage is not fixed and varies by property, location, and time. The exact rate will be shown to you during the online booking process.
How to use the MMF rate for more than one room?
The MMF rate has no limit on the number of rooms you can book per night, but this is subject to availability at the specific hotel.
How to earn Marriott Bonvoy points with this discount?
Yes, stays booked with the Friends & Family rate are eligible to earn Marriott Bonvoy points, just like a regular stay.
How to use the discount without an authorization form?
You cannot. The authorization form is a mandatory part of the program and must be presented at check-in.
How to get a discount if I'm immediate family instead of a friend?
Immediate family members (spouse, parents, children, etc.) of a Marriott employee may be eligible for a different, often more generous, discount rate using the code MMP. However, they also need a specific authorization form.
