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In today’s travel-centric world, many of us accumulate thousands, or even hundreds of thousands, of airline miles and credit‑card reward points over a lifetime. But when we’re gone, who gets to use them? Unlike other assets, frequent‑flyer miles typically cannot be passed on through a will.

The Miles You Earn Aren’t Always Yours to Bequeath

Most airline and credit‑card reward programs close the account of a deceased member and reclaim the miles. While some airlines make exceptions on a case-by-case basis, their terms and conditions generally state that points aren’t transferable by inheritance.

• United, JetBlue, Frontier: Offer family pooling options that may allow loved ones to use shared miles, but only if the account remains open.
• American Airlines, JetBlue: May permit post-death transfers under strict documentation—often including a death certificate, proof of executor authority, and possibly a waiting period.
• Southwest: Explicitly prohibits inheritance. When a member passes away, the account is closed, and the miles are forfeited.

Estate Planning Strategies to Preserve Mile Value

1. Log-In Access Documented
   Store your frequent flyer login credentials securely—perhaps in a digital vault or alongside your estate documents. Many airlines allow account access until they’re formally notified of death.
2. Family Pooling Is Your Ally
   If your airline offers pooling, enroll early and designate someone else as the “pool leader.” This may safeguard access to miles even if your personal status changes.
3. Gifting Miles While You’re Alive
   You can transfer miles before death, but be aware of hefty fees. For instance, United charges $7.50 per 500 miles, plus a $30 processing fee.
4. Donate Miles to Charity
   Many programs allow donations to charities. These aren’t usually tax-deductible but can ensure the miles are used meaningfully.
5. Use Them or Lose Them
   Credit‑card rewards often convert to a statement credit or even a check to the estate. Airline miles typically expire or vanish posthumously.

Is Your Miles Nest Egg Worth It?

Despite their appeal, reward points shouldn’t be treated like traditional investments. They don’t grow in value, can be devalued at any time, and usually expire. The wisest approach? Use them consistently during your lifetime—then include them thoughtfully in your estate plan.

In Summary:

If you’ve accrued sizable reward balances, now’s the time to take practical steps. Together with your estate planning documents, clear instructions and secure access can ensure your miles benefit loved ones—or causes—after you’re gone.

Final Thought

Frequent flyer miles may not be “hard” assets, but with foresight, they can still bring joy and comfort after you’re gone. As your estate planning attorneys, we can help you develop a strategy that treats every asset, whether physical or digital, with the care it deserves.

Thanks for reading.
Christopher E. Botti, Esq. Board-Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust, and Probate Law.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every situation is unique, and you should consult with a qualified attorney for advice regarding your specific circumstances.