Are you ready to unlock a whole new world of rewards and benefits by merging your love for great coffee and fantastic travel? If you're a fan of both Starbucks and Marriott, then you're in for a treat! Linking your Starbucks Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy accounts is a smart move that lets you "double-dip" on loyalty benefits, earning more Stars for your coffee fix and more points for your next dream vacation.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and successful linking experience. Let's get brewing and traveling!
The Power of Partnership: Why Link Your Accounts?
Before we dive into the "how-to," let's understand why this partnership is so beneficial. Starbucks and Marriott Bonvoy have teamed up to offer a seamless loyalty experience, bringing together two of your favorite daily habits: your morning coffee and your travel adventures.
By linking your accounts, you can enjoy:
Double Stars during eligible Marriott Bonvoy stays: Imagine earning twice the Stars on your Starbucks purchases made at participating Starbucks locations within Marriott hotels during your trips. That's more free coffee, faster!
Earn Marriott Bonvoy points during Marriott Bonvoy Weeks: Throughout the year, designated "Marriott Bonvoy Weeks" offer linked members the chance to earn 100 Marriott Bonvoy points when they complete three qualifying Starbucks transactions. This is an excellent way to boost your point balance for future stays.
Potential for exclusive promotions and sweepstakes: The partnership often rolls out special offers and sweepstakes for linked members, giving you even more opportunities to win exciting prizes, from bonus Stars to dream travel experiences.
Seamless redemption options: While earning is great, the ability to redeem is even better. You can use your Marriott Bonvoy points for hotel stays, and even convert them into Starbucks Stars if you need a quick coffee fix (though the value exchange should be considered carefully).
It's a true win-win for anyone who enjoys both brands!
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility – Are You Ready to Link?
First things first, let's make sure you meet the basic requirements to link your accounts. Don't worry, it's pretty straightforward!
1.1: Be a Starbucks Rewards Member
Do you have a Starbucks Rewards account? If not, you'll need to join. It's free and easy! You can sign up via the Starbucks mobile app (highly recommended for the best experience) or on the Starbucks website.
Ensure your Starbucks Rewards account is U.S.-based. The current partnership is primarily for U.S. members.
1.2: Be a Marriott Bonvoy Member
Are you a Marriott Bonvoy member? Similar to Starbucks, if you're not yet a member, you'll need to enroll. It's also free and can be done on the Marriott Bonvoy website.
Have your Marriott Bonvoy account details handy. You'll need your member number or the email associated with your account.
1.3: Internet Access and Device
Ensure you have a reliable internet connection. You'll be doing this online.
Have access to a computer or a mobile device. The process is generally smooth on both.
If you've checked all these boxes, fantastic! You're ready for the next step.
Step 2: Navigate to the Linking Portal – Where the Magic Happens
The linking process is initiated from the Starbucks side of the partnership.
2.1: Open Your Web Browser or Starbucks App
Using a computer: Open your preferred web browser and go to the official Starbucks + Marriott Bonvoy partnership page. This is usually found at
starbucks.com/marriottbonvoy.Using the Starbucks App: Open the Starbucks mobile app. Look for a section related to "Partnerships" or "Rewards" and then specifically for the "Marriott Bonvoy" linking option. This might be under your "Account" tab or a "Featured" section.
2.2: Locate the "Link Accounts" or "Get Started" Button
Once you're on the dedicated partnership page or within the app's linking section, you should see a prominent button or link that says something like "Link Accounts," "Get Started," or "Join Now & Link." Click or tap on this to proceed.
Step 3: The Linking Process – A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
This is where you'll connect your two loyalty worlds. Pay close attention to the details.
3.1: Sign In to Your Starbucks Rewards Account
The linking portal will first prompt you to sign in to your Starbucks Rewards account. Enter your Starbucks Rewards email address and password.
Forgot your password? Most sign-in pages have a "Forgot Password" link. Follow the prompts to reset it if needed. Make sure you can access your Starbucks account before proceeding.
3.2: Authorize the Connection (Starbucks Side)
After successfully logging into Starbucks Rewards, you'll likely be presented with a screen explaining what information will be shared between Starbucks and Marriott and the benefits of linking.
Read through this information carefully.
You'll then need to grant authorization for Starbucks to connect with your Marriott Bonvoy account. This usually involves clicking an "Accept" or "Authorize" button.
3.3: Sign In to Your Marriott Bonvoy Account
Now, you'll be redirected to the Marriott Bonvoy sign-in page (or an embedded login portal).
Enter your Marriott Bonvoy member number or email address and password.
Similar to Starbucks, if you've forgotten your Marriott Bonvoy credentials, use the "Forgot Password" or "Look up Member Number" option.
3.4: Authorize the Connection (Marriott Bonvoy Side)
Once you've successfully logged into Marriott Bonvoy, you'll see a confirmation or authorization screen, this time from the Marriott side.
Review the terms and conditions and click "Agree" or "Link Accounts" to finalize the connection.
3.5: Confirmation!
If all steps are completed successfully, you should receive a confirmation message indicating that your Starbucks Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy accounts are now linked!
Keep an eye out for a confirmation email from both Starbucks and Marriott, as these often contain important details or summaries of the benefits.
Step 4: Verify Your Linked Accounts – Ensure It's Working
It's always a good idea to double-check that your accounts are indeed linked and that you're ready to start earning.
4.1: Check Your Starbucks Account
Log back into your Starbucks Rewards account on the website or app.
Look for a section related to "Partnerships" or "Linked Accounts." You should see an indication that your Marriott Bonvoy account is now connected.
4.2: Check Your Marriott Bonvoy Account
Log into your Marriott Bonvoy account on the website.
Navigate to your "Account Activity" or "Profile" section. While you might not see a direct link to Starbucks there, any points earned through the partnership (e.g., during Marriott Bonvoy Weeks) will appear as "Starbucks Marriott Week" in your activity.
Step 5: Start Earning and Enjoying! – Maximizing Your Benefits
Now that your accounts are linked, it's time to put them to good use!
5.1: Earn Double Stars on Eligible Stays
Book your Marriott Bonvoy stays. Make sure your Marriott Bonvoy number is included in your hotel reservation.
Make qualifying Starbucks purchases at participating Starbucks locations within Marriott hotels. This is key! Not all Starbucks are participating, and the double Stars only apply during eligible stays.
Pro-Tip: Ensure your accounts are linked at least 48 hours prior to your check-in date to ensure you earn Double Stars from the moment your eligible stay begins.
5.2: Participate in Marriott Bonvoy Weeks
Keep an eye out for announcements from Starbucks and Marriott regarding designated "Marriott Bonvoy Weeks" (also known as "Sip, Dream, Go™"). These promotions happen periodically throughout the year.
During these weeks, make three qualifying Starbucks transactions (minimum $2 USD each, paid via the app with a linked payment method or preloaded Starbucks Card, or by scanning your barcode before paying) at participating U.S. Starbucks stores.
You'll earn 100 Marriott Bonvoy points directly deposited into your Marriott Bonvoy account within a few business days after the week concludes.
5.3: Consider Point Transfers (with caution)
You can transfer Marriott Bonvoy points to Starbucks Stars if your accounts are linked. However, the transfer ratio (typically 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to 100 Starbucks Stars) is generally not considered a good value for your Marriott points. Marriott Bonvoy points are usually more valuable when redeemed for hotel stays.
This option might be useful only if you have a small number of Marriott points about to expire and need a quick way to use them, or if you're desperate for a few Starbucks Stars. You can initiate this transfer on the Marriott Bonvoy website.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the linking process is generally smooth, sometimes hiccups occur. Here are some common issues and what to do:
Error Message during Linking:
"Accounts already linked": This means you've successfully linked them before! No further action is needed.
Generic error: Double-check your internet connection. Try clearing your browser's cache and cookies, or try a different browser/device.
Incorrect credentials: Make sure you're entering the correct email and password for each respective loyalty program.
Points/Stars not appearing:
Allow up to 48 hours for points and Stars to post after an eligible transaction or stay.
Verify eligibility: Did your Starbucks purchase meet the minimum spend and payment method requirements? Was your Marriott stay truly "eligible" as per the terms and conditions? Was the Starbucks location participating?
Contact Customer Support: If issues persist, reach out to Starbucks customer support first (via the in-app support feature under "Account" > "Help" with screenshots of any error messages). They can often provide direct assistance. If it's a Marriott-specific issue, then contact Marriott Bonvoy customer service.
"Page Not Found" or Redirect Issues: Ensure you're using the correct URL (
starbucks.com/marriottbonvoy) and that your browser isn't blocking redirects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check if my Starbucks and Marriott accounts are linked?
You can check by logging into your Starbucks Rewards account on their website or app and looking for a "Partnerships" or "Linked Accounts" section, where you should see an indication of your Marriott Bonvoy connection.
How to earn Double Stars during Marriott stays?
To earn Double Stars, your Starbucks Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy accounts must be linked, and you need to make a qualifying Starbucks purchase at a participating Starbucks location within an eligible Marriott Bonvoy hotel during an eligible stay. Ensure your Marriott Bonvoy number is on your reservation and accounts are linked at least 48 hours prior to check-in.
How to earn Marriott Bonvoy points through Starbucks purchases?
Linked members can earn 100 Marriott Bonvoy points by making three qualifying Starbucks transactions (minimum $2 USD each, paid via the app or by scanning your barcode before paying) at participating U.S. Starbucks stores during designated "Marriott Bonvoy Weeks" announced by both brands.
How to transfer Marriott Bonvoy points to Starbucks Stars?
Once your accounts are linked, you can initiate a transfer of Marriott Bonvoy points to Starbucks Stars via the Marriott Bonvoy website. However, be aware that the transfer ratio (1,000 Marriott Bonvoy points for 100 Stars) is generally not considered the best value for your Marriott points.
How to sign up for Starbucks Rewards?
You can sign up for Starbucks Rewards for free by downloading the Starbucks mobile app or by visiting the Starbucks website and following the prompts to create an account.
How to join Marriott Bonvoy?
Joining Marriott Bonvoy is free. You can enroll on the Marriott Bonvoy website by providing your basic personal details.
How to troubleshoot linking errors between Starbucks and Marriott?
First, ensure you're using the correct login credentials for both accounts. Clear your browser's cache and cookies, or try a different device. If the issue persists, contact Starbucks customer support directly through their app.
How to find participating Starbucks locations for Double Stars?
Double Stars on eligible stays apply to Starbucks locations within participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels. It's best to confirm with the specific hotel or check the Starbucks app for participating locations once you're at a Marriott property.
How long does it take for Stars or points to appear after a linked transaction?
Please allow up to 48 hours for Stars and Marriott Bonvoy points to be credited to your respective accounts after an eligible transaction or the conclusion of a Marriott Bonvoy Week.
How to get the most value from the Starbucks and Marriott partnership?
To maximize value, actively participate in Marriott Bonvoy Weeks by completing the three qualifying Starbucks transactions. Also, always make your qualifying Starbucks purchases within Marriott hotels during eligible stays to earn Double Stars. While transfers are possible, generally prioritize redeeming Marriott Bonvoy points for hotel stays for better value.
