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Step-by-Step Instructions: The Only Way to Earn Points Indirectly
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The Crucial Distinction: Qualifying vs. Non-Qualifying Stays
| Booking Channel | Eligibility for Honors Points/Stay Credit | Eligibility for Elite Benefits (Upgrade, Breakfast) | Ability to Add Honors Number |
| Hilton.com/Official App | Fully Eligible (Qualifying Stay) | Guaranteed (Per status tier rules) | Added automatically at booking. |
| Expedia/OTA Booking | Not Eligible (Non-Qualifying Rate) | At Hotel Discretion (Not guaranteed) | Possible (At check-in, for Digital Key only). |
| Expedia Hotel Reservation (Pay Later) | Not Eligible | At Hotel Discretion (Since payment is direct to hotel) | Possible (Better chance at hotel discretion). |
Step-by-Step Instructions: The Only Way to Add Your Number
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Step-by-Step Instructions: The Only Way to Earn Points Indirectly
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- No. Expedia hotel reservations are considered non-qualifying rates under the Hilton Honors terms and conditions, and therefore do not earn points or stay credit.
- Can the hotel front desk add my Hilton Honors number?
- Yes, often. The hotel may manually add your Hilton Honors number at check-in for the limited purpose of activating the Digital Check-in and Digital Key app features.
- Will I get my Diamond or Gold benefits (breakfast, upgrade) on an Expedia booking?
- No, it is not guaranteed. Elite benefits are at the hotel's discretion and are typically reserved for a Qualifying Stay booked directly with Hilton.
- What is the main advantage of adding my Honors number to an Expedia booking?
- The primary benefit is access to Hilton's Contactless Experience features like Digital Check-in and the Digital Key on the mobile app.
- Can I submit a missing stay request to Hilton for an Expedia booking?
- No. A Missing Stay Request is only for correcting missing credit on a confirmed Qualifying Stay booked through Hilton's channels, not for OTA bookings.
- Is it better to book direct with Hilton or use the lower Expedia price?
- For travelers with Hilton Elite Status, booking direct for the guaranteed Hilton Honors benefits and points usually outweighs a marginal Expedia price difference.
- Can I still earn points on incidental charges during my Expedia stay?
- Yes. Eligible charges like room service or restaurant bills (paid separately, not included in the Expedia prepayment) will usually earn Hilton Honors Points if your number is attached to the folio.
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