# Can Your Heirs Inherit Credit Card Rewards, Airline Miles and Hotel Points?
Credit card rewards, airline miles, and hotel points hold real monetary value. Your family may be able to access these accounts after you die, though the rules vary significantly by issuer and program.
Most credit card rewards expire when the cardholder passes away. American Express, Chase, Citi, and Capital One typically close accounts within weeks of learning of a death. Any unused points vanish unless the estate executor acts quickly. However, some issuers allow beneficiaries to redeem points during a brief window. Contact your card issuer immediately upon death to ask about this option.
Airline miles transfer more reliably. United MileagePlus, Delta SkyMiles, and Southwest Rapid Rewards allow family members to inherit miles in most cases, though specific procedures vary. You may need to provide a death certificate and proof of heirship. American Airlines AAdvantage miles can be transferred to a spouse or family member. Southwest does not explicitly restrict transfers after death, making it a stronger option for legacy planning.
Hotel loyalty programs show mixed results. Hyatt Gold Passport, Marriott Bonvoy, and IHG One Rewards generally allow miles to pass to heirs, but processing times and requirements differ. Hilton Honors and Best Western Rewards do not clearly address post-death transfers on their websites.
To protect your rewards, take action now. List your credit card, airline, and hotel accounts with their account numbers and login credentials in your will or a secure document accessible to your executor. Many financial advisors recommend naming a specific beneficiary for loyalty accounts where possible. Redeem high-value rewards before they expire. Points worth five cents or more per redemption in premium airline seating or hotel nights justify immediate use.
Estate planning documents should specify what happens to your