How Long Does It Really Take for Your Marriott Bonvoy Points to Show Up? A Comprehensive Guide
Ever checked out of a fantastic Marriott stay, already dreaming of your next redemption, only to log into your Marriott Bonvoy account and find... crickets? You're not alone! The anticipation of seeing those hard-earned points hit your balance can be palpable, and it's frustrating when they don't appear instantly. So, let's dive deep into the ins and outs of Marriott Bonvoy point posting times, empowering you to track your rewards with confidence and know exactly when to take action if something seems amiss.
Step 1: Get Ready to Track Your Earnings! (And a Little Patience Goes a Long Way)
Before we even talk about timelines, let's make sure you're prepared. Do you have your Marriott Bonvoy member number handy? What about your hotel confirmation number and, ideally, a copy of your folio (receipt) from your recent stay? Having these details easily accessible will be a lifesaver if you ever need to inquire about missing points.
Now, about that patience: while we all wish points would magically appear the moment you step out of the hotel, it simply doesn't work that way. There's a process involved, and understanding it will help manage your expectations.
Step 2: Understanding the Standard Point Posting Timeline
So, how long should you typically wait?
The Golden Window: 48-72 Business Hours
For most eligible hotel stays booked directly with Marriott (via their website, app, or Marriott Bonvoy customer service), your points and elite night credits are generally deposited into your account within 48 to 72 business hours after your checkout. This means if you check out on a Friday, don't expect them to show up on Saturday morning! Business hours exclude weekends and public holidays.
The Official Guideline: Up to 10 Business Days
While many stays post quicker, Marriott's official stance is to allow up to 10 business days after your check-out for a stay to post to your Marriott Bonvoy account. This longer timeframe accounts for various factors, including processing times at individual hotels and across Marriott's systems. Don't panic if you don't see them after 3 days; they might still be on their way.
Step 3: Factors That Can Influence Point Posting Speed
Several elements can affect how quickly your points appear. Understanding these can help you anticipate delays or understand why a specific stay might take longer.
Direct Bookings vs. Third-Party Bookings:
Direct bookings (Marriott.com, Marriott Bonvoy App, Marriott Reservations) are almost always eligible for point accrual and tend to post within the standard timeframe.
Third-party bookings (Expedia, Booking.com, Priceline, etc.) are generally not eligible for Marriott Bonvoy points or elite night credits. If you booked through one of these channels, your points will likely never show up, regardless of how long you wait. This is a crucial distinction!
Hotel Brand and Location:
While there isn't a stated difference, some users report anecdotal evidence that points from certain international hotels or specific brands might take slightly longer to process than others. This isn't a hard rule, but it's something to keep in mind.
Type of Stay:
Paid Stays: Standard hotel stays where you pay directly for your room are the most common way to earn points, and they adhere to the timelines above.
Award Stays (Points Redemption): When you use points for a free night, you generally won't earn points on the room rate itself, but you will earn points on eligible incidentals charged to your room (like dining or spa services). These incidentals should post within the usual timeframe.
Promotional Stays/Bonus Points: If you're earning points through a special promotion (e.g., double points, bonus nights), these bonus points might post separately or slightly after your base points. Always check the specific terms and conditions of the promotion.
Credit Card Spending:
Points earned through a Marriott Bonvoy co-branded credit card (e.g., Marriott Bonvoy Boundless, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant) typically post to your account according to your credit card statement cycle, not immediately after your hotel stay. This is distinct from points earned from the hotel stay itself.
Step 4: What to Do If Your Points Haven't Posted (The "Missing Stay" Protocol)
If it's been more than 10 business days since your checkout and your points still haven't appeared, it's time to take action. Marriott has a straightforward process for requesting credit for a missing stay.
Subheading: Before You Submit – Gather Your Information
Make sure you have your:
Marriott Bonvoy Member Number
Hotel Name
City and State/Country of the Hotel
Check-in and Check-out Dates
Confirmation Number
Folio (Receipt) Number: This is critical. Marriott will almost certainly require a copy of your folio. If you don't have it, contact the hotel directly to request a copy.
Subheading: The Online Missing Stay Request Form
This is the easiest and most recommended method.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Log In: Go to the Marriott Bonvoy website (marriott.com) and log into your account.
Navigate to Account Activity: Once logged in, click on your name or "Account" in the top right corner. From the dropdown menu, select "Activity" or "Account Activity."
Find "Missing Stay Request": Scroll to the bottom of your Account Activity page. You should see a link for "Request Credit for a Missing Stay" or "Missing Stay Request Form." Click on it.
Fill Out the Form: Carefully fill in all the required fields with the information you gathered earlier. Ensure accuracy, as incorrect details can delay the process.
Attach Your Folio: The form will typically have an option to upload your hotel folio. This is highly recommended. Scan or take a clear picture of your receipt and attach it.
Submit: Once all information is entered and your folio is attached, click "Submit."
Subheading: What Happens After Submission?
After submitting your request, Marriott will review it. You should receive a confirmation email.
Processing Time: Marriott states that it can take up to 10 business days for a missing stay request to be processed and credited to your account. However, many users report receiving credit much faster, sometimes within a few days.
Follow Up: If you don't see your points or hear back after 10 business days, you can contact Marriott Bonvoy customer service directly, referencing your missing stay request number.
Subheading: Other Ways to Request Credit (If the Online Form Fails)
Phone Call: You can call Marriott Bonvoy customer service. Be prepared to provide all your stay details and potentially email your folio.
Social Media: While not an official channel for missing stays, sometimes a direct message to Marriott Bonvoy on platforms like Twitter can help escalate a stubborn issue. This should be a last resort after trying the official channels.
Step 5: Important Considerations for Earning Points
To avoid missing points in the first place, keep these tips in mind:
Always Provide Your Marriott Bonvoy Number: Ensure your Bonvoy number is added to your reservation at the time of booking or at check-in. This is the most common reason for points not posting automatically.
Book Directly with Marriott: As mentioned, third-party bookings almost never earn points. Always book directly through Marriott's official channels for eligible stays.
Check Your Folio: At checkout, quickly review your folio. Ensure your Marriott Bonvoy number is listed and that the charges are accurate.
Keep Your Receipts: Always retain a copy of your hotel folio (receipt) for at least a few months after your stay, or until your points have posted. Digital copies are perfect!
Qualifying Charges: Remember that points are earned on "qualifying charges," which typically include your room rate and incidental charges like dining, spa services, and other things you charge to your room. Taxes, fees, and tips usually do not earn points.
By following these steps and understanding the nuances of Marriott Bonvoy point posting, you'll be well-equipped to manage your valuable rewards and ensure every eligible stay contributes to your next amazing travel experience.
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
How to check my Marriott Bonvoy points balance? You can check your Marriott Bonvoy points balance by logging into your account on marriott.com or the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app. Your current balance is usually displayed prominently on your account dashboard.
How to request credit for a missing Marriott Bonvoy stay? Log into your Marriott Bonvoy account on marriott.com, go to "Account Activity," and then find the "Request Credit for a Missing Stay" link. Fill out the form with your stay details and attach your hotel folio.
How to ensure my Marriott Bonvoy points post correctly? Always book directly with Marriott, ensure your Marriott Bonvoy member number is on your reservation, and keep a copy of your hotel folio.
How to earn Marriott Bonvoy points faster? You can earn points faster by staying at Marriott properties, utilizing Marriott Bonvoy co-branded credit cards, participating in promotional offers, and earning points through Marriott's partners (e.g., dining programs, car rentals).
How to know if my hotel booking is eligible for Marriott Bonvoy points? Bookings made directly through Marriott's official channels (marriott.com, Marriott Bonvoy app, Marriott reservation lines) are generally eligible. Bookings through third-party online travel agencies (OTAs) are typically not eligible.
How to find my Marriott Bonvoy member number? Your Marriott Bonvoy member number is visible when you log into your account on marriott.com or the Marriott Bonvoy app, usually near your name or on your account profile page.
How to get a copy of my hotel folio/receipt? You can usually request a copy of your folio at the hotel's front desk during checkout, or by contacting the hotel directly via phone or email after your stay. Some hotels also email digital folios automatically.
How to contact Marriott Bonvoy customer service about missing points? If the online missing stay form doesn't resolve your issue after 10 business days, you can contact Marriott Bonvoy customer service by phone. Their contact details are usually available on the "Contact Us" section of the Marriott website.
How to deal with points that appear incorrectly (too few points)? If your points have posted but seem incorrect (e.g., fewer than expected), follow the "missing stay" protocol, but specify in the comments that you believe the points posted are inaccurate, and provide details from your folio to support your claim.
How to prevent Marriott Bonvoy points from expiring? Marriott Bonvoy points expire after 24 consecutive months of inactivity. To keep them active, you need to have qualifying activity, such as earning or redeeming points, at least once every 24 months. This can include a paid stay, a points redemption, or even earning points through a co-branded credit card.
