Do you want to maximize your travel rewards and unlock incredible experiences? Then you've come to the right place! Adding points to your Marriott Bonvoy account is the key to free nights, elite status, and a world of exclusive benefits. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting your loyalty journey, this comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to boost your Marriott Bonvoy balance.
Let's dive in and get those points rolling!
The Power of Marriott Bonvoy Points
Marriott Bonvoy is one of the largest and most rewarding loyalty programs in the world, boasting an incredible portfolio of brands ranging from luxurious St. Regis and Ritz-Carlton properties to comfortable Courtyard and Fairfield Inn hotels. Accumulating Marriott Bonvoy points opens doors to:
Free Night Awards: Redeem your points for complimentary stays at over 8,000 hotels and resorts worldwide. This is often the most valuable way to use your points.
Room Upgrades: Enhance your stay with a more spacious room or a suite, making your trip even more memorable.
Unique Experiences (Marriott Bonvoy Moments): Bid on or redeem points for exclusive events, concerts, culinary experiences, and more.
Airline Miles Transfers: Convert your Marriott Bonvoy points into airline miles with numerous airline partners.
Shopping & Gift Cards: While generally not the best value, you can also redeem points for merchandise or gift cards.
Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of how to get those points into your account!
Step 1: Ensure Your Marriott Bonvoy Account is Active and Ready!
Before you start earning, do you have a Marriott Bonvoy account? If not, that's your first crucial step! If you do, make sure you can log in and that your profile information is up-to-date.
Sub-heading: Creating Your Marriott Bonvoy Account
If you're new to Marriott Bonvoy:
Visit the Official Marriott Bonvoy Website: Go to Marriott.com and look for the "Join" or "Sign Up" option.
Provide Your Details: Fill in the required information, including your name, email address, and preferred communication.
Create a Password: Choose a strong, secure password for your account.
Confirm Your Enrollment: You might receive an email to confirm your account. Click the link to activate it.
Congratulations! You're now a Marriott Bonvoy member. Keep your member number handy, as you'll need it for earning points.
Sub-heading: Verifying Your Existing Account
If you already have an account:
Log In: Go to Marriott.com and sign in with your email/member number and password.
Check Your Profile: Once logged in, navigate to your profile or account overview. Ensure your contact details are accurate.
Familiarize Yourself with the Dashboard: Take a moment to explore your dashboard. You'll see your current point balance, elite status progress, and upcoming reservations.
Having an active and accessible account is fundamental to adding and managing your points.
Step 2: Earning Points Through Hotel Stays - The Core Method
The most straightforward and common way to add points to your Marriott Bonvoy account is by staying at participating Marriott properties worldwide.
Sub-heading: Automatic Points for Eligible Stays
When you book directly with Marriott (via Marriott.com, the Marriott Bonvoy app, or their reservation lines) and provide your Marriott Bonvoy member number, points are generally credited automatically.
Book Your Stay: When making a reservation, always ensure your Marriott Bonvoy member number is linked to the booking. You'll usually see a field for this during the booking process or upon check-in.
Complete Your Stay: Enjoy your time at the Marriott property!
Points Post Automatically: Points for eligible stays typically post to your account within 72 hours to 10 business days after you check out.
What determines "eligible spend"? Generally, this includes the room rate, food and beverage charges (excluding alcohol in some regions), and other incidental charges billed to your room, provided you're a registered guest. Taxes, service charges, and some third-party services are usually excluded.
Sub-heading: Earning Rates for Stays
The number of points you earn per stay depends on the brand and your elite status:
Base Earning: Most Marriott brands earn 10 base points per eligible USD spent. (e.g., Courtyard, Marriott Hotels, Sheraton, Westin, St. Regis, Ritz-Carlton, etc.)
Lower Earning Brands: Some brands, like Element, Residence Inn, and TownePlace Suites, earn 5 points per eligible USD spent.
Elite Status Bonus:
Silver Elite: +10% bonus points on base points.
Gold Elite: +25% bonus points on base points.
Platinum Elite, Titanium Elite, Ambassador Elite: +50% bonus points on base points.
Example: If you spend $100 at a Marriott Hotel as a Gold Elite member, you'd earn 1,000 base points + 250 bonus points = 1,250 Marriott Bonvoy points.
Sub-heading: Adding Your Member Number to an Existing Reservation
Forgot to add your number when you booked? No problem!
For Upcoming Stays (Before Check-in):
Go to Marriott.com and sign in.
Navigate to "My Trips" or "Upcoming Reservations."
Find your reservation. There should be an option to "Add Marriott Bonvoy Member Number" or modify guest details. Enter your number and save.
During Check-in:
Simply inform the front desk agent that you're a Marriott Bonvoy member and provide your number. They can easily add it to your reservation.
After Check-out (Missing Stay Request):
If your stay has already completed and points haven't posted after 10 business days, you'll need to submit a missing stay request. We'll cover this in a later section.
Step 3: Boosting Your Points with Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards
One of the fastest and most lucrative ways to accumulate Marriott Bonvoy points is through co-branded credit cards. These cards offer substantial welcome bonuses and accelerated earning rates on everyday spending.
Sub-heading: Welcome Bonuses
Many Marriott Bonvoy credit cards offer a significant welcome bonus after meeting a certain spending requirement within the first few months of account opening. This can often be tens of thousands of points, sometimes even enough for several free nights!
Research Different Cards: Issuers like Chase (in the US) and American Express (globally) offer various Marriott Bonvoy credit cards with different annual fees, benefits, and welcome offers. Compare them to find one that suits your spending habits and travel goals.
Meet Spending Requirements: Once approved, make sure you meet the minimum spending threshold within the specified timeframe to earn the bonus points.
Sub-heading: Accelerated Earning on Purchases
Marriott Bonvoy credit cards provide enhanced earning rates on various categories:
Marriott Stays: Typically, you'll earn 4x to 6x points per USD spent at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels when using your co-branded credit card, in addition to the base points and elite bonus points you earn as a member. This is a powerful multiplier!
Everyday Spending: Cards often offer bonus points on categories like dining, groceries, gas, or general everyday purchases.
All Other Purchases: Even on non-bonus categories, you'll usually earn 1x or 2x points per USD spent.
Look for cards that align with your typical spending to maximize your point accumulation.
Step 4: Diversifying Your Point Earning - Beyond Stays
Marriott Bonvoy offers a multitude of other ways to earn points, turning your everyday activities into valuable rewards.
Sub-heading: Marriott Bonvoy Tours & Activities
Did you know you can earn points on experiences?
Visit Marriott Bonvoy Tours & Activities: Browse and book tours, excursions, and activities directly through the Marriott Bonvoy Tours & Activities platform (activities.marriott.com).
Earn Points: You'll earn Marriott Bonvoy points for eligible bookings, usually at a rate specified for each activity. This is a fantastic way to earn points on vacation experiences you'd likely book anyway.
Sub-heading: Marriott Bonvoy Events
Planning a meeting, wedding, or large group event? Marriott Bonvoy Events allows you to earn points for qualified events held at participating Marriott properties.
Consult the Events Team: Work with the hotel's events team to ensure your event is eligible for point earning.
Earn Points: You can earn 2 points per $1 USD spent on qualifying event charges, with maximum earning potential tied to your elite status.
Sub-heading: Dining and Restaurant Programs
Marriott has partnerships that allow you to earn points on dining:
Eat Around Town by Marriott Bonvoy: Enroll in this program and link your credit cards. Dine at participating restaurants, and you'll automatically earn points when you use your linked card.
On-Property Dining: Even if you're not staying overnight, dining at restaurants within Marriott Bonvoy properties can earn you points, especially if you charge it to a room (if you're a registered guest) or use a co-branded Marriott Bonvoy credit card.
Sub-heading: Partners and Promotions
Keep an eye out for special offers and partnerships:
Car Rentals (e.g., Hertz): Earn points when you rent cars through Marriott's car rental partners.
Cruises (Marriott Cruises): Book a cruise through Marriott Cruises and earn a significant amount of points.
Uber Partnership: Link your Marriott Bonvoy and Uber accounts to earn points on eligible Uber rides and Uber Eats deliveries. This is a super easy way to passively earn points!
Marriott Bonvoy Shop: Purchase items from Marriott Bonvoy's online retail stores (e.g., Marriott, Westin, Sheraton, Ritz-Carlton shops) and earn points.
Limited-Time Promotions: Marriott frequently runs global and targeted promotions that offer bonus points for stays, specific brands, or certain activities. Always register for these promotions to maximize your earnings! Check the "Promotions" section on the Marriott Bonvoy website or app.
Step 5: Transferring Points to Marriott Bonvoy
Have points with other loyalty programs? You might be able to convert them into Marriott Bonvoy points.
Sub-heading: Transferring from Credit Card Flexible Points Programs
Several transferable point programs allow you to convert their points to Marriott Bonvoy:
Chase Ultimate Rewards: Often transfers at a 1:1 ratio. This is a popular option for many travelers.
American Express Membership Rewards: Also typically transfers at a 1:1 ratio, though sometimes with bonus promotions.
Bilt Rewards: Transfers at a 1:1 ratio.
Log In to Your Credit Card Rewards Portal: Access your points dashboard for Chase, Amex, or Bilt.
Select Marriott Bonvoy as a Transfer Partner: Find the option to transfer points to hotel loyalty programs and select Marriott Bonvoy.
Enter Your Marriott Bonvoy Account Number: Double-check to ensure accuracy.
Specify Transfer Amount: Enter the number of points you wish to transfer.
Confirm Transfer: Review the details and confirm the transfer. Transfer times can vary from instant to a few business days.
Always check the transfer ratio and any minimum transfer requirements before initiating a transfer.
Sub-heading: Transferring Points from Another Marriott Bonvoy Account
Yes, you can transfer points to another Marriott Bonvoy member! This is useful for combining points with family or friends for a redemption.
Contact Marriott Bonvoy Customer Service: Point transfers between members typically require you to contact Marriott Bonvoy customer service directly. There may be a minimum and maximum transfer limit per year.
Ensure Accounts are Active: Both the sender and recipient accounts must be active and in good standing.
Step 6: Purchasing Marriott Bonvoy Points
In situations where you're just a few points short of a redemption, or if there's a good promotional sale, purchasing points can be a viable option.
Sub-heading: Buying Points Online
Visit the "Buy Points" Page: Go to Marriott.com and navigate to the "Buy Points" section (you may need to search for it or find it under your account options).
Enter Desired Amount: You can typically purchase points in increments of 1,000.
Complete Purchase: Follow the prompts to complete the transaction.
Members can generally purchase a combined maximum of 150,000 points per calendar year through the Buy Points Storefront or Gift Points Storefront. An additional 100,000 points can be purchased annually when booking a hotel stay through the reservation path if you don't have enough points.
Consider the Cost: Points are usually sold at a rate of approximately $12.50 USD per 1,000 points. Only purchase points if the redemption value you're getting is higher than the cost of buying them. Look out for sales, where Marriott often offers discounts or bonus points on purchases, which can make it more worthwhile.
New Member Restriction: New members may only purchase points 30 days after enrollment in the Marriott Bonvoy program.
Step 7: Requesting Credit for Missing Stays (Retroactive Points)
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, points for a stay might not appear in your account. Don't worry, Marriott has a process for this!
Sub-heading: When to Request a Missing Stay
Wait 10 Business Days: It can take up to 10 business days after check-out for points to post. Be patient before submitting a request.
Eligible Stays Only: Ensure the stay was booked directly with Marriott and was an eligible earning stay. Third-party bookings (like Expedia or Booking.com) generally do not earn points.
Sub-heading: How to Submit a Missing Stay Request Online
Log In to Your Account: Go to Marriott.com and sign in.
Navigate to "Missing Stay Request": This can usually be found under your account activity or help/FAQ sections. You might need to search for "Missing Stay Request."
Fill Out the Form: You'll need to provide the following information:
Your Marriott Bonvoy member number
Hotel Name
City
Check-in Date
Check-out Date
Confirmation Number
Folio/Receipt Number (if available)
Any relevant comments
Attach Documentation: It's highly recommended to attach a copy of your hotel receipt (folio) to expedite the process.
Submit Request: Once all information is entered, submit the form.
Marriott will then review your request. It may take some time for the points to be credited after a successful review.
Sub-heading: Retroactive Points for Stays Before Enrollment
Yes, you can earn points for stays completed before you joined the Marriott Bonvoy program!
The stay must have been completed no more than 30 days prior to your enrollment in the program.
You must provide a copy of the paid receipt for the stay within sixty (60) days of the stay.
Follow the "Missing Stay Request" process for these retro-active requests as well.
Final Thoughts on Adding Points
Consistent earning is key to maximizing your Marriott Bonvoy benefits. Always remember to:
Provide your member number for every eligible stay.
Utilize your co-branded credit card for Marriott purchases and everyday spending.
Register for all applicable promotions.
Explore partner opportunities to earn points outside of hotel stays.
Keep an eye on your point balance and request missing points promptly if needed.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enjoying the fantastic rewards that come with a healthy Marriott Bonvoy point balance!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my Marriott Bonvoy points balance?
You can easily check your Marriott Bonvoy points balance by logging into your account on Marriott.com or through the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app. Your current point total will be prominently displayed on your account dashboard.
How to ensure I get points for my Marriott stay?
To ensure you get points for your Marriott stay, always book directly through Marriott channels (Marriott.com, Marriott Bonvoy app, or phone) and provide your Marriott Bonvoy member number at the time of booking or upon check-in.
How to add my Marriott Bonvoy number to an existing reservation?
For an upcoming reservation, log in to your Marriott.com account, find your reservation under "My Trips," and look for an option to modify guest details or add your Marriott Bonvoy number. Alternatively, you can provide it at the front desk when you check in.
How to request missing points from a past Marriott stay?
If points for a past Marriott stay haven't posted after 10 business days, log in to your Marriott.com account and navigate to the "Missing Stay Request" form, usually found under the "Help" or "Account Activity" sections. Fill out the required details and attach a copy of your hotel receipt.
How to earn Marriott Bonvoy points without staying at a hotel?
You can earn Marriott Bonvoy points without staying at a hotel by using a co-branded Marriott Bonvoy credit card, participating in programs like Eat Around Town or Marriott Bonvoy Tours & Activities, linking your Uber account, booking events through Marriott Bonvoy Events, and taking advantage of partner promotions.
How to buy Marriott Bonvoy points?
You can buy Marriott Bonvoy points by logging into your account on Marriott.com and visiting the "Buy Points" section. You can typically purchase points in increments of 1,000, up to a maximum annual limit, though it's generally recommended during promotional sales for better value.
How to transfer points from a credit card to Marriott Bonvoy?
To transfer points from a credit card loyalty program (like Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards), log in to your credit card's rewards portal, select Marriott Bonvoy as a transfer partner, enter your Marriott Bonvoy account number, and specify the amount you wish to transfer.
How to transfer Marriott Bonvoy points to another member?
Transferring Marriott Bonvoy points to another member typically requires contacting Marriott Bonvoy customer service directly. There are usually minimum and maximum transfer limits per calendar year.
How to earn retroactive points for a stay before I joined Marriott Bonvoy?
You can earn retroactive points for a stay completed up to 30 days before you enrolled in Marriott Bonvoy, provided you submit a missing stay request with a copy of your paid receipt within 60 days of the stay.
How to find current Marriott Bonvoy promotions to earn more points?
To find current Marriott Bonvoy promotions, log in to your Marriott.com account or use the Marriott Bonvoy app. Navigate to the "Promotions" or "Offers" section, and remember to register for any promotions you wish to participate in to ensure you earn bonus points.
