What Happens to Your Frequent Flyer Miles When You Die?

When people think about estate planning, they tend to focus on homes, bank accounts, and life insurance. But in today’s digital world, rewards points and travel miles can hold real value too. So, what happens to all those frequent flyer miles and credit card points when you pass away?

It Depends on the Program

Every airline, hotel, and credit card rewards program has its own policy. Some allow point transfers at their discretion, while others clearly state that rewards are non-transferable upon death. Certain credit card programs do permit points to be passed on to a surviving spouse or estate executor, but it all depends on the provider’s terms and conditions.

What You Can Do

The fine print is everything. If your rewards program doesn’t allow point transfers, your hard-earned miles or points could disappear the moment you pass away. To prevent that, take action now: mention your rewards in your will or trust, and assign a beneficiary if the program permits it. Also, review the terms and conditions for each account so you can plan accordingly and make the most of your benefits.

Ready To Start?

At the Smith Law Firm, we create comprehensive estate plans for our clients every day. Start by booking a Peace of Mind Planning Session! We can meet in person or via Zoom. We’ll answer your questions, explain your options, and share our unique flat fees and process for getting started. The session is normally $275; mention this blog and we’ll waive the fee! BOOK HERE!