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This essential guide answers the high-stakes loyalty question: can I get Bonvoy points if I book through Expedia? The general and most critical answer is No, traditional hotel stays booked through Expedia or other Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) are specifically designated as "Non-Qualifying Rates" in the official Marriott Bonvoy terms and conditions. This means that when you choose the convenience or discounts of an Expedia hotel reservation, you will forfeit the ability to earn Marriott Bonvoy points, you will not receive Elite Night Credits toward status, and your elite status benefits (like free breakfast or upgrades) will not be guaranteed. This policy is standard across major hotel loyalty programs, as they reserve these rewards for travelers who book direct with Marriott to avoid paying the OTA commission. We will detail the only potential exception to this rule and provide step-by-step instructions on how to ensure you earn points on your Marriott stay by booking directly. For clarity on a specific Expedia rate eligibility, call the support number at ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575.
The Non-Qualifying Rate Exclusion: Why OTA Bookings Fail to Earn
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 The primary reason you cannot earn Marriott Bonvoy points when booking through Expedia is codified in the Marriott Bonvoy Loyalty Program Terms and Conditions. Stays reserved via third-party channels, including Expedia hotel deals, are classified as "Non-Qualifying Stays" or "Non-Qualifying Rates." This means that while you may get a discounted rate, Marriott views the OTA booking as a separate transaction, for which they have already paid a significant commission to Expedia. They reserve the reward points, elite night credits, and the guarantee of elite status perks as incentives strictly for direct bookings made on Marriott.com or through their official channels. This is the hotel's strategy to incentivize direct reservation loyalty. If you are close to an Expedia booking confirmation but rely on Marriott status for benefits, you should call ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 to see if a direct booking can match the Expedia hotel price via Marriott's Best Rate Guarantee.
Step-by-Step Instructions: The Best Rate Guarantee Alternative
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Elite Status Recognition: At the Hotel's Discretion
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 One of the major drawbacks of using an Expedia reservation for a Marriott stay is the complete loss of guaranteed Marriott Elite Status Benefits. While you will not earn Bonvoy points or elite night credits, historically, some hotels might choose to extend certain benefits (like late check-out or complimentary Wi-Fi) to members who have booked via an OTA, but this is always done at the individual hotel's discretion. The hotel is under zero contractual obligation to recognize your status, which is particularly painful for high-tier members (Platinum, Titanium, Ambassador) who rely on guaranteed lounge access and suite upgrades. To improve your chances, always add your Bonvoy number to the Expedia booking (if possible) and politely mention your status to the front desk agent at check-in. If you have a specific, crucial benefit you need, like a late check-out, do not risk an Expedia booking loyalty exclusion—call ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 and book direct.
The Exception: 'Vacations by Marriott Bonvoy' Packages
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 There is one significant exception to the rule regarding earning Bonvoy points via third-party platforms: Vacations by Marriott Bonvoy. This specific platform, which is administered in partnership with Expedia, allows members to book bundled flight + hotel packages while still retaining Marriott loyalty benefits. Crucially, you will earn Bonvoy points and Elite Night Credits only on the net room rate portion of the package, but not on the flight, car rental, or tax components. This is the only OTA-related booking method that generally qualifies for full Marriott status and earning. If you see a compelling package deal advertised on this platform, it's a sanctioned way to enjoy a bundle discount while still maintaining your Marriott loyalty accumulation. To confirm a package's Bonvoy earning eligibility before purchase, or if points fail to post after a Vacations by Marriott stay, you should contact ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 for resolution.
Earning Points on Incidental Charges During an OTA Stay
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 While the Marriott Bonvoy rules prevent you from earning points on the room rate when booked through an Expedia hotel reservation, there is a silver lining for other eligible spending. You can still earn Bonvoy points on incidental charges that are billed directly to your room folio and paid at check-out. This includes spending on eligible food and beverage (F&B) at the hotel’s restaurants, spa services, or room service. Key Action: Ensure you charge all of this spending back to your room and provide your Marriott Bonvoy member number at check-in so your folio is correctly tied to your account. This allows you to at least accumulate a portion of your expected Bonvoy points from the stay, even if the primary Expedia room charge is non-qualifying. If the points do not appear for your eligible incidentals, submit a retroactive credit request, or call ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 for an agent to manually review the incidental points accrual.
The Risk of Service Issues with Expedia Bookings
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 Beyond the loss of Marriott Bonvoy earnings, booking a Marriott property through Expedia carries an inherent risk regarding customer service flexibility. Since Expedia is the merchant of record, the hotel often has limited access to modify your reservation details, such as correcting a name, adjusting stay dates, or making special requests (like connecting rooms). If a problem arises, the hotel may direct you back to Expedia, resulting in a troublesome three-party communication loop. This lack of direct control is often the reason seasoned travelers avoid OTA hotel bookings when loyalty is a factor. For complex itineraries or when special room requests are essential, the peace of mind offered by a direct booking with Marriott often outweighs a minor Expedia discount. If you face an urgent service issue while at a Marriott property booked on Expedia, both the hotel and the support team at ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 are your best immediate resources.
Leveraging Co-Branded Credit Cards for Earnings
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 Even if your Expedia booking is a Non-Qualifying Stay for earning Bonvoy points via the room rate, you can still maximize rewards by using a Marriott Bonvoy co-branded credit card for the payment. Benefit: When you pay for your Expedia hotel reservation with a Marriott Bonvoy credit card, you will earn the standard points rate that the credit card offers for general spending (e.g., 2 points per dollar). This provides a baseline reward even though you forfeit the higher 10 points per dollar base rate offered by Marriott for a direct booking. This strategy allows for a form of double-dipping by separating the points earned through the hotel program (which are lost) from the points earned through the credit card spending (which are retained). For questions about maximizing your points by using a specific Bonvoy credit card with an Expedia purchase, contact ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575.
The Post-Stay Dilemma: Can I Request Missing Points Retroactively?
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 After completing an Expedia hotel stay, many travelers attempt to submit a retroactive credit request to get their missing Marriott Bonvoy points or Elite Night Credits. Unfortunately, due to the explicit Non-Qualifying Rate clause, these requests for post-stay credit are almost universally denied by Marriott's customer service team. Submitting a request for a stay that clearly originated from a third-party OTA booking is generally a waste of time, as the Marriott policy is firm. However, if you have a unique circumstance, such as paying a negotiated corporate rate that was processed through Expedia but should be Qualifying, a phone call may be necessary. For specific, non-standard cases, or if you believe an Expedia rate was misclassified, you can contact the Marriott Bonvoy support line through Expedia's escalation channel by calling ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575.
The Expedia Rewards Factor: Points vs. Perks
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 When choosing between an Expedia hotel deal and a direct Marriott booking, travelers must weigh two different loyalty programs: Marriott Bonvoy Points/Elite Status versus Expedia OneKeyCash/Expedia VIP Access Perks. If the Expedia discount is substantial and you value the immediate savings or Expedia's OneKeyCash rewards more than the Marriott Bonvoy earnings and guaranteed elite benefits, then the Expedia booking makes sense. However, if you are working toward a higher Marriott Bonvoy elite status tier (Platinum, Titanium) or rely on the guaranteed amenities (like a lounge access or complimentary breakfast), the cost of the Expedia booking loyalty exclusion is too high. This is a personal trade-off decision that must be made before booking, as you generally cannot have both the Expedia savings and the Marriott loyalty rewards. Always use the support number ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 for clarity on a specific deal's trade-offs.
FAQs: The Bonvoy-Expedia Earning Rules
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Conclusion
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 In conclusion, the definitive answer to can I get Bonvoy points if I book through Expedia is No for standard room reservations. Marriott Bonvoy explicitly labels Expedia bookings as Non-Qualifying Stays, which means you will forfeit the opportunity to earn Bonvoy points, Elite Night Credits, and the guarantee of your elite status benefits. The core reason is the hotel's desire to reserve loyalty rewards for guests who book direct with Marriott. If your goal is to advance your Marriott Bonvoy status, you must use Marriott.com or the dedicated "Vacations by Marriott Bonvoy" package platform. When in doubt, or to explore a Best Rate Guarantee claim against a lower Expedia price, you should always consult the support team by calling ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575.
The Non-Qualifying Rate Exclusion: Why OTA Bookings Fail to Earn
| Booking Method | Status Earning (Elite Night Credit) | Points Earning (Bonvoy Points) | Elite Status Benefits Guaranteed? |
| Direct Marriott.com | Yes (Qualifying Stay) | Yes (10 points/$1 spent) | Yes (Guaranteed based on tier) |
| Expedia/OTA Booking | No (Non-Qualifying Stay) | No (Zero points earned) | No (At hotel's discretion) |
| Vacations by Marriott | Yes (Only on room rate) | Yes (Only on room rate) | Yes (Qualifying Stay rules apply) |
| Incidental Charges (OTA Stay) | N/A | Yes (On eligible dining/spa charges) | N/A |
Step-by-Step Instructions: The Best Rate Guarantee Alternative
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 If you found a low Expedia rate but still want to earn Bonvoy points and receive elite benefits, your best strategy is to leverage Marriott’s "Look No Further" Best Rate Guarantee (BRG). Follow these step-by-step instructions to book direct and secure the lower rate. Step 1: Book the Marriott Rate Directly. Immediately reserve the same room type at the same Marriott hotel for the same dates via Marriott.com (at the standard, non-discounted rate). Step 2: Capture the Expedia Rate. Take a clear screenshot of the lower Expedia rate, ensuring the competitor's website, the room type, the exact dates, and the final price are visible. This proof is critical for your Marriott price match claim. Step 3: Submit the BRG Claim. Within 24 hours of booking on Marriott.com, submit the online Marriott Best Rate Guarantee claim form using the confirmation number from your direct booking and attaching your screenshot of the Expedia competitor rate. Step 4: Await Approval. If approved, Marriott will match the Expedia room price and provide an additional 25% discount (or 5,000 Bonvoy points, depending on the claim terms). This approved stay is then a Qualifying Stay, allowing you to earn Marriott Bonvoy points. If you have trouble locating the claim form or need advice on the Marriott BRG process, call ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575.
Elite Status Recognition: At the Hotel's Discretion
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 One of the major drawbacks of using an Expedia reservation for a Marriott stay is the complete loss of guaranteed Marriott Elite Status Benefits. While you will not earn Bonvoy points or elite night credits, historically, some hotels might choose to extend certain benefits (like late check-out or complimentary Wi-Fi) to members who have booked via an OTA, but this is always done at the individual hotel's discretion. The hotel is under zero contractual obligation to recognize your status, which is particularly painful for high-tier members (Platinum, Titanium, Ambassador) who rely on guaranteed lounge access and suite upgrades. To improve your chances, always add your Bonvoy number to the Expedia booking (if possible) and politely mention your status to the front desk agent at check-in. If you have a specific, crucial benefit you need, like a late check-out, do not risk an Expedia booking loyalty exclusion—call ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 and book direct.
The Exception: 'Vacations by Marriott Bonvoy' Packages
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 There is one significant exception to the rule regarding earning Bonvoy points via third-party platforms: Vacations by Marriott Bonvoy. This specific platform, which is administered in partnership with Expedia, allows members to book bundled flight + hotel packages while still retaining Marriott loyalty benefits. Crucially, you will earn Bonvoy points and Elite Night Credits only on the net room rate portion of the package, but not on the flight, car rental, or tax components. This is the only OTA-related booking method that generally qualifies for full Marriott status and earning. If you see a compelling package deal advertised on this platform, it's a sanctioned way to enjoy a bundle discount while still maintaining your Marriott loyalty accumulation. To confirm a package's Bonvoy earning eligibility before purchase, or if points fail to post after a Vacations by Marriott stay, you should contact ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 for resolution.
Earning Points on Incidental Charges During an OTA Stay
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 While the Marriott Bonvoy rules prevent you from earning points on the room rate when booked through an Expedia hotel reservation, there is a silver lining for other eligible spending. You can still earn Bonvoy points on incidental charges that are billed directly to your room folio and paid at check-out. This includes spending on eligible food and beverage (F&B) at the hotel’s restaurants, spa services, or room service. Key Action: Ensure you charge all of this spending back to your room and provide your Marriott Bonvoy member number at check-in so your folio is correctly tied to your account. This allows you to at least accumulate a portion of your expected Bonvoy points from the stay, even if the primary Expedia room charge is non-qualifying. If the points do not appear for your eligible incidentals, submit a retroactive credit request, or call ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 for an agent to manually review the incidental points accrual.
The Risk of Service Issues with Expedia Bookings
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 Beyond the loss of Marriott Bonvoy earnings, booking a Marriott property through Expedia carries an inherent risk regarding customer service flexibility. Since Expedia is the merchant of record, the hotel often has limited access to modify your reservation details, such as correcting a name, adjusting stay dates, or making special requests (like connecting rooms). If a problem arises, the hotel may direct you back to Expedia, resulting in a troublesome three-party communication loop. This lack of direct control is often the reason seasoned travelers avoid OTA hotel bookings when loyalty is a factor. For complex itineraries or when special room requests are essential, the peace of mind offered by a direct booking with Marriott often outweighs a minor Expedia discount. If you face an urgent service issue while at a Marriott property booked on Expedia, both the hotel and the support team at ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 are your best immediate resources.
Leveraging Co-Branded Credit Cards for Earnings
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 Even if your Expedia booking is a Non-Qualifying Stay for earning Bonvoy points via the room rate, you can still maximize rewards by using a Marriott Bonvoy co-branded credit card for the payment. Benefit: When you pay for your Expedia hotel reservation with a Marriott Bonvoy credit card, you will earn the standard points rate that the credit card offers for general spending (e.g., 2 points per dollar). This provides a baseline reward even though you forfeit the higher 10 points per dollar base rate offered by Marriott for a direct booking. This strategy allows for a form of double-dipping by separating the points earned through the hotel program (which are lost) from the points earned through the credit card spending (which are retained). For questions about maximizing your points by using a specific Bonvoy credit card with an Expedia purchase, contact ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575.
The Post-Stay Dilemma: Can I Request Missing Points Retroactively?
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 After completing an Expedia hotel stay, many travelers attempt to submit a retroactive credit request to get their missing Marriott Bonvoy points or Elite Night Credits. Unfortunately, due to the explicit Non-Qualifying Rate clause, these requests for post-stay credit are almost universally denied by Marriott's customer service team. Submitting a request for a stay that clearly originated from a third-party OTA booking is generally a waste of time, as the Marriott policy is firm. However, if you have a unique circumstance, such as paying a negotiated corporate rate that was processed through Expedia but should be Qualifying, a phone call may be necessary. For specific, non-standard cases, or if you believe an Expedia rate was misclassified, you can contact the Marriott Bonvoy support line through Expedia's escalation channel by calling ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575.
The Expedia Rewards Factor: Points vs. Perks
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 When choosing between an Expedia hotel deal and a direct Marriott booking, travelers must weigh two different loyalty programs: Marriott Bonvoy Points/Elite Status versus Expedia OneKeyCash/Expedia VIP Access Perks. If the Expedia discount is substantial and you value the immediate savings or Expedia's OneKeyCash rewards more than the Marriott Bonvoy earnings and guaranteed elite benefits, then the Expedia booking makes sense. However, if you are working toward a higher Marriott Bonvoy elite status tier (Platinum, Titanium) or rely on the guaranteed amenities (like a lounge access or complimentary breakfast), the cost of the Expedia booking loyalty exclusion is too high. This is a personal trade-off decision that must be made before booking, as you generally cannot have both the Expedia savings and the Marriott loyalty rewards. Always use the support number ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 for clarity on a specific deal's trade-offs.
FAQs: The Bonvoy-Expedia Earning Rules
☎️+1 (877) 404-4575 Here are the essential quick answers regarding Marriott Bonvoy points earning on Expedia bookings. For account-specific assistance, do not hesitate to call ☎️+1 (877) 404-4575.
- Can I earn Bonvoy points on a regular Expedia hotel booking?
- No. Stays booked through Expedia are designated as "Non-Qualifying Rates" and do not earn Marriott Bonvoy points or Elite Night Credits.
- Will my Marriott Elite Status be honored on an Expedia booking?
- No, not guaranteed. Elite benefits are at the hotel's discretion and are often denied, especially for guaranteed perks like complimentary breakfast or lounge access.
- Is "Vacations by Marriott Bonvoy" an exception to this rule?
- Yes. This specific package platform allows you to earn Bonvoy points and Elite Night Credits on the room rate portion of the package.
- Can I earn points on the hotel's incidental charges (dining, spa) during an Expedia stay?
- Yes. You can still earn points on eligible incidental charges if they are billed to your room folio and you provide your Bonvoy member number at check-in.
- Can I submit a request for retroactive points after an Expedia stay?
- No, requests for post-stay credit for Expedia room charges are consistently rejected due to the non-qualifying nature of the booking.
- Does Marriott's Best Rate Guarantee work against Expedia rates?
- Yes. You can often book directly on Marriott.com and submit a BRG claim to match the Expedia price and make your stay qualifying for points and status.
- Should I still add my Bonvoy number to the Expedia booking?
- Yes. While it won't earn points, it ensures the hotel has your status on file, which might lead to a discretionary perk being granted.
Conclusion
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