Starwood Preferred Guest - Account expiration?

Hi! I notice that SPG has a new term and condition. I was told that my account will be closed and my Starpoints will be forfeited if I do not "earn Starpoints as a result of activities at participating Starwood Properties during the previous twelve months".

My questions is: Do I have to earn the Starpoints through paid stays to saftisfy this requirement? If I buy a meal at a reward stay, will it be treated as "Eligible Charges"? What about "Cash & Points Award Nights"? What about "50% Off Regular Rates"?

I am not really a frequent traveller. But I have over 50K points in my SPG account. I really do not want to lose them. Can any gurus clarify for me? Thanks so much!

[This message has been edited by sbbi (edited 02-05-2003).]

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by sbbi:
Hi! I notice that SPG has a new term and condition. I was told that my account will be closed and my Starpoints will be forfeited if I do not "earn Starpoints as a result of activities at participating Starwood Properties during the previous twelve months".

My questions is: Do I have to earn the Starpoints through paid stays to saftisfy this requirement? If I buy a meal at a reward stay, will it be treated as "Eligible Charges"? What about "Cash & Points Award Nights"? What about "50% Off Regular Rates"?

I am not really a frequent traveller. But I have over 50K points in my SPG account. I really do not want to lose them. Can any gurus can clarify for me? Thanks so much!</font>

Man, you had me going there for a minute. I thought they had finally posted the 2003 Terms and Conditions to the web site! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

This isn't new. Well, maybe it is for you, but it actually pre-dates Starwood Preferred Guest if you go back as far as Sheraton Club International (SCI) or Westin Premier. It's been a part of the Terms and Conditions of Membership in Starwood Preferred Guest since it's beginning in February of 1999.

As long as a transaction is posted as a "stay" transaction, it would work to keep your account active and your Starpoints secure.

Okay, what is considered a "stay" transaction? Well, an actual stay, for one - and yes the 50% off award is eligible. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif Dining during an award stay (even Cash & Points) is also a "stay" transaction. As are just dining at a qualifying restaurant for over $10 before taxes. Earning Starpoints by using the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express will also do this, even though it is technically a "bonus" transaction.

Hope that helps.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Cast your vote! Visit www.freddieawards.com (http://www.freddieawards.com) and choose your favorite frequent travel programs today.

[This message has been edited by Starwood Lurker (edited 02-05-2003).]

Lurker, thank you very much! You are really a guru! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif Are you sure that the transactions from Starwood Amex also count? It does not seem like "earn Starpoints as a result of activities at participating Starwood Properties".

I called SPG this morning, a gentlemen (cold, on the contrary) told me I have to PAY for a stay to prevent my account being close. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif( And he said I am responsible for monitoring any changes in term and condition on the website. (he implied that there had been some changes). And he said SPG would not send any notice.

Are you saying there will be a new Term and condition for 2003?

Thanks!

Well, we are all hoping and praying daily that the 2003 Terms and Conditions will be made available online and in the new kits going out soon. They update these on a yearly basis, but the one regarding keeping an active account to maintain your Starpoints has been with us since the beginning. I'm not sure why anyone at SPG would be confused about that.

I can see why he would tell you that you have to have an actual stay, however. That is definitely our preferred way for you to keep an active account. But, any of the methods I suggested above should work for you, including the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express transactions.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Cast your vote! Visit www.freddieawards.com (http://www.freddieawards.com) and choose your favorite frequent travel programs today.

Is only breakfast during an award stay enough to be considered as a "stay transaction" ?

I was worried about this one also. If you read the latest Inside Flyer, which has a feature on the SPG program, it says on p29 (under the "Rules and Conditions") that "Only earning ... and the earning activity must be done at a hotel." I immediately called SPG and was told exactly what Starwood Lurker tells us, that activity via the Amex will extend the expiration date (and it did as my last stay was in Dec but my expiration date was Feb 2004).

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by bousquet:
Is only breakfast during an award stay enough to be considered as a "stay transaction" ?</font>

Yes. They are points earned while you are at the hotel as a guest and even though the stay is ineligible, the incidental charges will post to your account as a "stay" transaction.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Cast your vote! Visit www.freddieawards.com (http://www.freddieawards.com) and choose your favorite frequent travel programs today.

Interesting

Has anybody actually lost all their points because of no activity during the previous 12 months?

Or is this just another rule that is never enforced?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by davistev:
Has anybody actually lost all their points because of no activity during the previous 12 months?

Or is this just another rule that is never enforced?</font>

I write probably ten letters a week dealing with this very issue, so it does in fact happen.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

What bout doing the 250 pt survey

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by welookgood.com:
What bout doing the 250 pt survey</font>

That is a "bonus" transaction, not a "stay" transaction. A "stay" transaction results from earning Starpoints that originate from one of our participating properties.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Sorry if I just have trouble understanding, but I eat quite often at Blue Fin, the restaurant at the W Times Square. I pay with my Starwood Amex Card. How do I know if this restaurant counts (I am not a guest at the hotel) and if there is something else I should be doing to have it count somehow. Do I have it charge differently? From the desk? I am so totally confused about restaurant charges if you are not a guest. HELP!!!

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Marysunshine:
Sorry if I just have trouble understanding, but I eat quite often at Blue Fin, the restaurant at the W Times Square. I pay with my Starwood Amex Card. How do I know if this restaurant counts (I am not a guest at the hotel) and if there is something else I should be doing to have it count somehow. Do I have it charge differently? From the desk? I am so totally confused about restaurant charges if you are not a guest. HELP!!!</font>

How to tell if a restaurant is participating? Ask the front desk if you were a guest of the hotel and wanted to charge your meal to the room account, could you do so?

If the answer is "yes", give the waiter your Starwood Preferred Guest card when you pay for the meal. They should give you a receipt in return showing that you will receive Starpoints.

If you still don't get credited after seven days, I'd fax the restaurant bill to Program Services and ask them to post it for you. Fax number 512-836-4002.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Marysunshine:
Sorry if I just have trouble understanding, but I eat quite often at Blue Fin, the restaurant at the W Times Square. I pay with my Starwood Amex Card. How do I know if this restaurant counts (I am not a guest at the hotel) and if there is something else I should be doing to have it count somehow.</font>
From personal experience SPG (not always the hotel staff) is outstanding in crediting restaurant meals. Here's how it works:

It's irrelevant what credit card you use. You need to show your receipt and SPG card/number to the waiter. If the waiter doesn't understand, go to the front desk. The front desk should make copies and send to SPG.

Even after doing the above, several of my restaurant meals were not credited. I just called SPG and provided meal date, cost, restaurant name and SPG number and the points posted in seconds. I had my receipts, but I was never asked for them.

Also, people with the SPG Amex should relax. I know several people who have the card, but don't stay at Starwood properties. Their Amex charges alone have kept their accounts active.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Family flyer:
Also, people with the SPG Amex should relax. I know several people who have the card, but don't stay at Starwood properties. Their Amex charges alone have kept their accounts active.</font>

Can anyone else confirm this? My uncle has about 90k points in his account with no Starwood stay (but does have a very active SPG AMEX) this year. He does have stays planned in Jan however. I don't want him to lose his points and am wondering if it might be best to redeem for airline miles.

This has been confirmed in an earlier post to this subject. The Lurker has spoken already on this issue.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by davistev:
Has anybody actually lost all their points because of no activity during the previous 12 months?</font>

I apparently have. I had my Sheraton number transferred to Starwood ages ago and didn't really have much chance to use it, got a few bonus points here and there but that was it.

When I had the opportunity to make an online profile a year or two ago I did, and I found my number had been assigned to someone in Colorado who had actually used it to go somewhere. My name, my email, their address, their stay ... my points?!? OK whatever was my thought.

Just now I tried to log in and could not. I couldn't create a new username for the number either. I inquired and I got a nice email this morning saying my account expired February 2002, and I need to sign up all over again.

So I guess the surveys I wrote a few days ago won't be credited to me. Another card to retire into my collection I guess! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/rolleyes.gif

[This message has been edited by rwarren (edited Dec 26, 2003).]

Does Starwood nofity you that you are almost a year between earned points? Or do you just logon one day and find, say 200,000 points gone and the account invalid? I'm concerned that because my *wood AMEX means many reward stays, I could wind up without a paid stay over 12 months and lose it all....

I understand that each month when my AMEX posts points that is counting for now, but I also understand that may not always be the case.

Friend just got burned this way. Travel patterns changed and lost lots of points and tried to check account, and gone.

I guess there might a good reason to expire them, but not sure why you want to send away customers, or for that matter encourage them to go other hotel chains where you still have points to use and build on.

Hmmmm.

My husband had 40000 points in his old sheraton account. We forgot about it and I found an old invoice and called up about them and starwood said they had expired long ago but they posted half back, 20,000 miles. So I would call about an expired account and lost miles!!!!

Lurker: Can you let us know if there is any warning given? Thanks!

I thought starwood was a good program until just now finishing talking to a rep. over the phone.

Be warned and Be careful: your membership does expire and so do you points!

Just talked to a very "cold" customer rep. and was told that:
1. you must be an active member to be in the program (with a qualfied stay) during the last 12 months -- a qualified stay MUST be booked through starwood website or call them.

2. Staying with sheraton, etc. through AAA or other websites (orbitz, etc.) does NOT count!

3. No notice will be sent to you regarding the expiration.

4. They will do you a "favor" to restore HALF of the points IF you book a stay with them (over the phone) within the next month.

I can't believe there is a such stupid rule!! So... buy buy starwood!

(I feel sorry for those who have accumulated tens of thousands of points...be warned: they are not safe! find a better place).

DoowRats

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by daveland:
Lurker: Can you let us know if there is any warning given? Thanks!</font>

Generally, no. We actually tried sending activation promotional offers to warn people and give them an incentive to stay, but the last time we did this, it just confused everyone. From the (negative) feedback we got, I'm not sure if there will ever be another one.

I know it seems cold, but Starwood Preferred Guest is a frequent stay program. If you aren't willing to stay with us at least once a year to keep your account active and your Starpoints from forfeiting, you might want to consider moving whatever points you have somewhere else.

Other than that, if I had a vested interest in something, I would take the time to read the Terms and Conditions of Membership in regard to every aspect of an affinity program - not just ours, but anyone's.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
I know it seems cold, but Starwood Preferred Guest is a frequent stay program. If you aren't willing to stay with us at least once a year to keep your account active and your Starpoints from forfeiting, you might want to consider moving whatever points you have somewhere else.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services
</font>

William -

IIRC, in other discussions on this topic, you have indicated that points from such activities as dining without a stay (but still earning points for the dining charges) or using the *wood AMEX will keep the account "fresh" and avoid expiration. Is this still the case?

Thanks in advance for providing an update. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by PhillyFive:
William -

IIRC, in other discussions on this topic, you have indicated that points from such activities as dining without a stay (but still earning points for the dining charges) or using the *wood AMEX will keep the account "fresh" and avoid expiration. Is this still the case?

Thanks in advance for providing an update. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif </font>

Nothing has changed in that regard. Dining charges originate from a participating property, which makes it a "stay transaction" - even if you don't stay. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

As far as the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express is concerned, believe what you will. Plenty of people here have already attested to the fact that having it and using it keeps accounts active, but some other people are never satisfied with that. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

William -

As always, thanks for the quick and useful response.

EEEEKKK! I just noticed that my last stay was 12/18/02. I have an Excel sheet where I keep track of all program activity requirements but I had incorrectly applied an 18 month grace period to *wood (must have copied and pasted from CO).

Guess I'll do a dine ASAP. Only 3800 pts at risk but I would hate to lose any.

Strange, noticed on the website they were flogging a promo to earn 2000 bonus *points by staying 3 times by the end of 2003. Targetted at the time-travelling demographic no doubt.

[This message has been edited by gardener (edited Jan 06, 2004).]

Spoke to a very nice *wood rep on the phone. She said there is a 6 month grace period on top of the one year of inactivity, I must have known that when I programmed my excel sheet. So I am good until 6/30/04 http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

She volunteered that a hotel stay, a meal, or Amex activity would extend the account.

Also of interest, any number of *points above 2500 can be transferred to an airline - so I could transfer my exact balance of 3818 *points to AA or US if I choose. This is much more flexible than Amex MR which requires blocks of 1000 miles.

So there is really no reason to lose points, one could always transfer one's entire balance before expiry. Methinks I will have a stay or meal before 6/04 and wait for the 20K transfer with 5K bonus.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
I know it seems cold, but Starwood Preferred Guest is a frequent stay program.[/B]</font>

Indeed. But it is a frequent stay program that very actively promotes its affiliation with AMEX. And what percentage of all SPG points earned are earned via the SPG AMEX? I would venture to guess far in excess of 50%. So it just seems like a silly policy.

Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
[I]f I had a vested interest in something, I would take the time to read the Terms and Conditions of Membership in regard to every aspect of an affinity program - not just ours, but anyone's.Sound advice.

Forewarned is forearmed.

I just called the Starwood 888 number and inquired as to the eligibility of AMEX transactions. The agent told me categorically that they do NOT count. (I had faxed a detailed letter to SPG in October to get clarification, but I never heard back.)

I asked her what the expiration date was on my account, and she replied that it was Februry 29, 2004. I asked where that date came from, and she stated that February 29? (evidently of an earlier year) was the date I opened my account. I explained that I had four stays in 2003, and she said she would extend the due date to February 2005. She was very unclear as to how the expiration date was calculated and maintained on the computer.

I asked about my wife's account. Same expiration date. Since my wife had no stays in 2003, my conclusion from the above is to definitely have her pay for a meal at a participating hotel and qualify for retention of her points in that way (even though she has much AMEX activity each year).

I guess my fear comes out of the fact that I have been lucky enough to accumulate a massive amount of points through my *wood AMEX. Enough that I could conceivably stay many times a year on points and, thus, not pay for the stays.

Does anything on my room bill (say just one local call) count as a stay credit for the purposes of meeting the requirement if I'm on an award stay?

I know use of the AMEX for now counts but given that one day, without warning, that might stop and no warning would be given of either that or of my time running out, it leaves me a bit scared to accumulate so many points!

Lastly, I know that you said, William, that you once tried a promo and it got bad feedback. How about instead of a promo, send out a point blank warning? "It has been 11 months since your last Starwood qualifying stay. Please note that accounts without stay credit for 12 months will be closed and points forfeited." Heck, this could even appear on the website dashboard with a note of your last qualifying stay credit.

I guess I'm just saying... can't we find a way to make the potential loss of points easier to keep track of? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by normcpa:
I just called the Starwood 888 number and inquired as to the eligibility of AMEX transactions. The agent told me categorically that they do NOT count. (I had faxed a detailed letter to SPG in October to get clarification, but I never heard back.)

I asked her what the expiration date was on my account, and she replied that it was Februry 29, 2004. I asked where that date came from, and she stated that February 29? (evidently of an earlier year) was the date I opened my account. I explained that I had four stays in 2003, and she said she would extend the due date to February 2005. She was very unclear as to how the expiration date was calculated and maintained on the computer.

I asked about my wife's account. Same expiration date. Since my wife had no stays in 2003, my conclusion from the above is to definitely have her pay for a meal at a participating hotel and qualify for retention of her points in that way (even though she has much AMEX activity each year).</font>

I would be willing to bet my Christmas bonus that if you were to speak to a supervisor in Starwood Preferred Guest, you would not only get a different answer in regard to the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express dilemma, you would also get an explanation on how an account's expiration date is set. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

That being said, you should really stay once a year to keep your account active. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by daveland:
I guess my fear comes out of the fact that I have been lucky enough to accumulate a massive amount of points through my *wood AMEX. Enough that I could conceivably stay many times a year on points and, thus, not pay for the stays.

Does anything on my room bill (say just one local call) count as a stay credit for the purposes of meeting the requirement if I'm on an award stay?

I know use of the AMEX for now counts but given that one day, without warning, that might stop and no warning would be given of either that or of my time running out, it leaves me a bit scared to accumulate so many points!

Lastly, I know that you said, William, that you once tried a promo and it got bad feedback. How about instead of a promo, send out a point blank warning? "It has been 11 months since your last Starwood qualifying stay. Please note that accounts without stay credit for 12 months will be closed and points forfeited." Heck, this could even appear on the website dashboard with a note of your last qualifying stay credit.

I guess I'm just saying... can't we find a way to make the potential loss of points easier to keep track of? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif</font>

There is an easy way...one stay a year = no angst. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
There is an easy way...one stay a year = no angst.Sleep there, dine there, or get the AmEx.

Or don't keep more Starpoints in your account than you can afford to forget.

Keep good records. :)



.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by SPN Lifer:
Sleep there, dine there, or get the AmEx.
</font>

Uh, no, that's the point of this thread. AmEx will not do it.

[This message has been edited by cactuspete (edited Jan 09, 2004).]

Originally posted by cactuspete:
Uh, no, that's the point of this thread. AmEx will not do it.Actually, the point of this thread was that a new Flyer Talk participant had just discovered what he considered to be a "new" annual stay requirement.

Originally posted by Starwood Lurker [posted Feb 05, 2003 03:56 PM]:
This isn't new. . . . It's been a part of the Terms and Conditions of Membership in Starwood Preferred Guest since it's beginning in February of 1999.

. * . * . *

Earning Starpoints by using the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express will also do this, even though it is technically a "bonus" transaction.Given the anxiety some have -- particularly those with large balances accumulated due to Inside Flyer purchases ;) -- if one is a belt-and-suspenders kind of guy, go to a restaurant and rest easy.

Or if available, stay at your friendly, neighborhood Starwood property.

But read in its totality, the comments in this thread of someone in a position to know indicate that the AmEx will also suffice. At least for now.

I guess it depends on your personal worry factor and how many Starpoints you have.



.

Maybe I confused myself, but I went back and read the entire threadand I still say Lurker's most recent comments are ambiguous (and IIRC there was another thread about this very same topic within the last 6-9 months where Lurker stated that AMEX use was notguaranteed to keep your account active.

[This message has been edited by cactuspete (edited Jan 12, 2004).]

I suspect the ambiguity is intentional, and I think you're right about the "guarantee" part.

It seems that -- for now -- SPG is being "generous" to AmEx account holders beyond what the T & C would require, strictly speaking.

Obviously a Starwood employee is not going to come out and say, "Don't stay with us." Also, for whatever reason, they don't want to put that AmEx exception into the T & C, probably so we don't acquire any contractual vested rights.

By leaving it as an "exception," rather than something in writing, Starwood has greater flexibility to cancel the benefit than they would otherwise.

However, if they did so unreasonably, then they still might be subject to the same sort of lawsuit as a breach of the T & C. Given the overall high level of customer service, and nature of the customers affected, I don't think this would be very likely, just as I don't think lawsuits should be filed frivolously or at the drop of a hat.

Obviously, if one's account balance is so large that a lawsuit might be warranted, then so might a meal at a Starwood property.

On the other hand, if you legitimately aren't travelling much for a year or 18 months, and have no nearby properties within driving distance (like me), I think it would be safe to rely on the current AmEx exception, paying careful attention to threads like this that might indicate the oral exception has been revoked.

That's probably as definitive as you're likely to get.

I'm glad to know this. My elderly mom recently switched to the *wood card from the Citibank card. Since she almost never stays at a *wood property, I will advise her to cancel her card (after she receives her bonus points) and start using the Citibank card again. After, reading this, I suspect she won't be the only one to do this. Interestingly, *wood stands to lose quite a bit of revenue from this stance, if William is correct. I intend to contact the top brass at *wood to confirm this.


<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
Generally, no. We actually tried sending activation promotional offers to warn people and give them an incentive to stay, but the last time we did this, it just confused everyone. From the (negative) feedback we got, I'm not sure if there will ever be another one.

I know it seems cold, but Starwood Preferred Guest is a frequent stay program. If you aren't willing to stay with us at least once a year to keep your account active and your Starpoints from forfeiting, you might want to consider moving whatever points you have somewhere else.

Other than that, if I had a vested interest in something, I would take the time to read the Terms and Conditions of Membership in regard to every aspect of an affinity program - not just ours, but anyone's.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com </font>

For possibly the hundreth time, using the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express will keep your account active and your Starpoints safe from being forfeited. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/rolleyes.gif

However, it is never going to appear that way in the Terms and Conditions of Membership because we prefer that people actually stay once a year to keep their accounts active and their accumulated Starpoints safe.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

This is the way I thought it was. But, the discussion on this thread made me think, perhaps, something had changed. Thanks.


<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
For possibly the hundreth time, using the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express will keep your account active and your Starpoints safe from being forfeited. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/rolleyes.gif

However, it is never going to appear that way in the Terms and Conditions of Membership because we prefer that people actually stay once a year to keep their accounts active and their accumulated Starpoints safe.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com </font>

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
For possibly the hundreth time, using the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express will keep your account active and your Starpoints safe from being forfeited. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/rolleyes.gif

However, it is never going to appear that way in the Terms and Conditions of Membership because we prefer that people actually stay once a year to keep their accounts active and their accumulated Starpoints safe.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com </font>

Just the answer I was looking for for an uncle.

Well, Thanks so much Starwood! I just LOST my remaining 15,000 Starwood points as of November which I earned by spending nearly $30,000 at hotels during past business trips. At one time I was Platinum level, now I'm "Gutter" level! :-) They have even locked me out of my account! ( What a kick in the butt.)

I am outraged that Starwood would not send an email or mail notice concerning the expiring points. Yes, I have read William R. Sanders emails and the 12 month rule(s), but it seems that Starwood would rather lose customers than encourage additional program participation. Send a reminder email or postal mail reminding them to stay at a hotel or use the AMEX card. I'm sure the folks at Starwood have done some Coporate number crunching and decided it's better to lose customers, but to me it just doesn't make sense. I would have gladly stayed at a hotel to keep the points, had I known they were expiring. I guess I was always under the (incorrect) assumption that the points do not expire, and don't ever remember any email/mail to the contrary.

I see no incentive to reactivate in this program. It's too bad, since I've always loved the folks at Starwood and the great customer phone service....

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by ptuoti:
Well, Thanks so much Starwood! I just LOST my remaining 15,000 Starwood points as of November which I earned by spending nearly $30,000 at hotels during past business trips. At one time I was Platinum level, now I'm "Gutter" level! :-) They have even locked me out of my account! ( What a kick in the butt.)

I am outraged that Starwood would not send an email or mail notice concerning the expiring points. Yes, I have read William R. Sanders emails and the 12 month rule(s), but it seems that Starwood would rather lose customers than encourage additional program participation. Send a reminder email or postal mail reminding them to stay at a hotel or use the AMEX card. I'm sure the folks at Starwood have done some Coporate number crunching and decided it's better to lose customers, but to me it just doesn't make sense. I would have gladly stayed at a hotel to keep the points, had I known they were expiring. I guess I was always under the (incorrect) assumption that the points do not expire, and don't ever remember any email/mail to the contrary.

I see no incentive to reactivate in this program. It's too bad, since I've always loved the folks at Starwood and the great customer phone service....</font>

Rules are rules, so you should learn to live by them even if they are not always in your favor. You don't have my sympathy. Its not very difficult to use the AMEX card or simply sign-up for one and get the bonus points.

The previous email was not very helpful ( i.e. "rules are rules"). In fact, no one is looking for any "sympathy", it just seems that there should be a better way, such as described in the ( Jan 08,2004 04:23PM ) posting.

Starwood could simply send out a non-glitzy email stating that "your points will soon expire in one month, and we hope you will stay at one of our hotels soon... etc, etc ..." This would encourage more participation rather than alienate customers.

Most people frequently get these types of emails from other web sites and programs. Why not Starwood?

We tried that. All it did was cause confusion and created a lot of bad will in the process.

I've said it once and I'll say it again, if I had a vested interest in something like an affinity program, I would read the Terms and Conditions to find out what the rules of engagement are. If you do that, you will lessen the opportunities for disappointment.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Ooops.. didn't know about this and it just bit me.. No big loss as it had a 0 balance anyway but it was still a surprise. I'd had a Four Points stay this past year, but it was via priceline so no stay credit. BTW any new Gold promos? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif



[This message has been edited by hauteboy (edited Jan 31, 2004).]

Today I called customer service to check on my Feb. 29, 2004, membership expiration date.

Specifically, I asked if my AMEX activity alone would keep my account active. Their responses (paraphrased) were:

1) first rep - "no, you need an actual hotel stay"

2) supervisor - "yes, AMEX activity will keep your account active"


Between Mr. Sander's and the supervisor's assurances, I'm now confident my account will not be cancelled.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
We actually tried sending activation promotional offers to warn people and give them an incentive to stay, but the last time we did this, it just confused everyone. </font>

Questions:

1. Accepting that you won't do this, would it be possible to get the "expiration date" onto the web page under our account information? While once in 12 months seems easy enough, information in various threads seem to indicate a 6 month grace, a grace for the account but not the points, a calendar year, a rolling 12 month period and an anniversary year. So even though my last stay point activity was March 16, 2003, I have no idea when my points might expire.

2. It was my understanding that I could get miles or points but not both. I had stays last year where I got miles, but they don't show up on my account. Would it have been possible to get them to show up to count as a stay to reset the clock on my points? Is it possible in retrospect?

3. My wife was given a gold comp last year, so we have had a few stays in her name. Is there any way to use these stays to extend my points?

Thanks.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by sosafan:
Questions:

1. Accepting that you won't do this, would it be possible to get the "expiration date" onto the web page under our account information? While once in 12 months seems easy enough, information in various threads seem to indicate a 6 month grace, a grace for the account but not the points, a calendar year, a rolling 12 month period and an anniversary year. So even though my last stay point activity was March 16, 2003, I have no idea when my points might expire.

2. It was my understanding that I could get miles or points but not both. I had stays last year where I got miles, but they don't show up on my account. Would it have been possible to get them to show up to count as a stay to reset the clock on my points? Is it possible in retrospect?

3. My wife was given a gold comp last year, so we have had a few stays in her name. Is there any way to use these stays to extend my points?

Thanks. </font>

1. I can pass this on as a functionality request to IM; however, I have no idea if it will ever come to fruition. If you have questions about when your points are about to expire, you can always call the Customer Contact Center and ask.

2. If you get airline miles instead of Starpoints, you do not get credit toward status on your SPG account. Once miles post to an airline account, it is not possible to reverse it.

3. If your wife was the registered guest, had her SPG account number on the reservation, and personally paid for all charges at check-out, then the stay was rightfully applied to her account and it will only count as credit to her account and not yours.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by sosafan:
3. My wife was given a gold comp last year, so we have had a few stays in her name. Is there any way to use these stays to extend my points? </font>

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
3. If your wife was the registered guest, had her SPG account number on the reservation, and personally paid for all charges at check-out, then the stay was rightfully applied to her account and it will only count as credit to her account and not yours.
</font>

In the future, sosafan, you could get a meal at the hotel where you are staying and not charge it to the room -- pay for it directly and apply the Starpoints to your account. My wife and I have done that once or twice -- she doesn't travel much, but we just made sure to eat a meal to "update" her account.

I think I saw this on another post, but I will add it here as well. The terms and conditions have been updated to say(in first paragraph):

You will be considered an "Active Member" so long as you have earned Starpoints as a result of activities at participating Starwood Properties or as a result of use of the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express during the previous twelve months. Starpoints resulting from transfers or earnings from other programs do not count toward active status.

http://www.starwood.com/preferredguest/terms_conditions.html

Wow! That is FANTASTIC news to have it in print that using the AMEX keeps things alive in case a particular year does not lend itself to a *wood paid stay. Thanks Starwood!

IMHO SPG benefits are directed toward frequent guests at Starwood properties. If one does not stay at a Starwood property even once in an 18 month period(with grace period), how can one even be considered a starwood frequent guest? If not staying at SPG properties, perhaps one should rely on the frequent traveler programs for the hotels at which one stays.

But that's rather short-sighted, IMHO. Just becuase someone has a low travel year doesn't mean they won't resume again under different circumstances. I'm not saying they should never close accounts for inactivity; but I'm in favor or having a way to keep it open without a revenue stay. A few scenarios: a) You have so many points that you decide that for a while you will cash in on your loyalty points and stay free. That won't count as a "stay" even if you stay 30 nights scattered over the year. b) You lose a job where you traveled a lot and are anxiously hoping to find a new one. In this case, loyalty before will likely mean loyalty again.

Using the AMEX (now allowed in writing) gives this person a way to keep his earned points alive without a paid stay. You see, the point may be to encourage future loyalty, but it also a reward for past loyalty (or there would be no stockpile of points to forfeit) and I don't think that a company should close an account for inactivity, without warning, and without a secondary option. At least now we have a secondary (and easy to use) option.

How to tell if a restaurant is participating? Ask the front desk if you were a guest of the hotel and wanted to charge your meal to the room account, could you do so?

If the answer is "yes", give the waiter your Starwood Preferred Guest card when you pay for the meal. They should give you a receipt in return showing that you will receive Starpoints.

If you still don't get credited after seven days, I'd fax the restaurant bill to Program Services and ask them to post it for you. Fax number 512-836-4002.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

hi William, I had a small biz meeting in Moscow's Sheraton Hotel restaurant and stuff, who was dealing with my check didn't know anything about existence of Starpoints as a hotel currency in general, so they denied my SPG card and reception girls said afterwards, that only way I can get starpounts is when I'll actually stay in the hotel, do you think you can check this with our hotel ;-) since it's the only Starwood property for now in Russia and get them understand that policy. All restaurants, which is located in hotel is possible to charge to room when you're staying there )

hi William, I had a small biz meeting in Moscow's Sheraton Hotel restaurant and stuff, who was dealing with my check didn't know anything about existence of Starpoints as a hotel currency in general, so they denied my SPG card and reception girls said afterwards, that only way I can get starpounts is when I'll actually stay in the hotel, do you think you can check this with our hotel ;-) since it's the only Starwood property for now in Russia and get them understand that policy. All restaurants, which is located in hotel is possible to charge to room when you're staying there )

I'll let the SPG hotel coordinator for that property know. Send your restaurant bill to Program Services via fax at 512-836-4002 and they will give you credit for it.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

To Starwood Lurker or whomever can answer...
I just want to confirm that you can go to a Starwood Property for lunch/dinner and charge the meal on your AmEx Starwood card EVEN THOUGH YOU ARE NOT A HOTEL GUEST and if the meal is over $10. this constitutes a "stay" to prevent points from cancelling.
Is this correct?

To Starwood Lurker or whomever can answer...
I just want to confirm that you can go to a Starwood Property for lunch/dinner and charge the meal on your AmEx Starwood card EVEN THOUGH YOU ARE NOT A HOTEL GUEST and if the meal is over $10. this constitutes a "stay" to prevent points from cancelling.
Is this correct?

It doesn't constitute a stay; however, dining credit from a participating restaurant acts as a "stay transaction", which means nothing more than that it originated from a participating property.

That being said, not every restaurant at every participating property participates. Bleu Restaurant & Lounge at the Sheraton Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia doesn't, for instance. But, the Potcheen Restaurant & Lounge at this same property does. It all depends upon the hotel and the restaurant having a billing agreement between the two entities.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Thank you Starwood Lurker....
Do you know if there are any participating properties in either So. Cal or No. Cal? (maybe there's a website that list which property restaurants participate and which don't).
My daughter is in the same boat as we are and she lives in No.Cal and we live in So. Cal.

According to the web site terms and conditions:
"You will be considered an "Active Member" so long as you have earned Starpoints as a result of activities at participating Starwood Properties or as a result of use of the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express during the previous twelve months."

Eating is an activity!!

Thank you.

Thank you Starwood Lurker....
Do you know if there are any participating properties in either So. Cal or No. Cal? (maybe there's a website that list which property restaurants participate and which don't).
My daughter is in the same boat as we are and she lives in No.Cal and we live in So. Cal.

According to the web site terms and conditions:


Eating is an activity!!

Thank you.

It would probably be easier to list those restaurants that don't participate than those who do. I can't think of any on the left coast that don't; however, just ask them if you were a guest of the hotel could you charge your meal to the room account. If they say 'yes', then they participate - even if they don't know it. ;)

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

But just to emphasize that a stay transaction is no longer necessary per the revised terms and conditions.

Activity on the Starwood Amex suffices to keep an account active.

This thread is making me laugh. I just think it is so funny that we are so worried about a loyatily program cancelling you if are not loyal. Of course Amex SPG transactions count.........it is the travel companies working together. We give them money either way...and they give us services.

I love starwood!!! So does my dog!! And many times she stays free.....and everyone always makes such a big deal, guests and staff! Plus she always gets special items sent to the room...she is more GOLD than I am....and I'm not gold...but soon.

This thread is making me laugh. I just think it is so funny that we are so worried about a loyatily program cancelling you if are not loyal. Of course Amex SPG transactions count.........it is the travel companies working together. We give them money either way...and they give us services.

I love starwood!!! So does my dog!! And many times she stays free.....and everyone always makes such a big deal, guests and staff! Plus she always gets special items sent to the room...she is more GOLD than I am....and I'm not gold...but soon.

What properties have you been to in the San Francisco bay area and had good recognition for your dog? My girlfriend lives in San Francisco and the one time I took her and the 'puppy' (70lb shephard-mutt mix) to the W-Silicon Valley they had a tiny pillow, no dog food, no pet bowls, no pet tags, no welcome toy or turn-down treats.

Dog seemed happy though -- when we left the room to use the pool we came back to him laying on his back on the couch with a happy dumb look :p

I stay away from the Ws and stay with westin santa clara or sheraton santa clara...the sheraton santa clara is the best for the doggie...not a great property ...lots of asia tours stop in there...but a good property with a FAZ resturant....best part...garden ground level rooms with small patios .....perfect for doggies...mine a 50 lb labmix....patio rooms are more private and dog can be outside(leash) while you are inside...perfect!!!! $75 on weekends

most time i need to call for my doggie package

I guess you mean the Sheraton Sunnyvale, right?

Dog seemed happy though -- when we left the room to use the pool we came back to him laying on his back on the couch with a happy dumb look :p
Umm, like, I thought you weren't permitted to leave your dog alone in a guest room? :confused:

Umm, like, I thought you weren't permitted to leave your dog alone in a guest room? :confused:

oh please! I know a few spg members that shouldn't be left alone in their room...and yea I think it is the sheraton sunnyvile..sorry

I was told that even if purchased on priceline.com, it still constitutes a stay. My sister who also checked with a Starwood rep was told that if purchased on priceline.com it does NOT constitute a stay.

One of us received the correct information but whom? Also, the price quoted by the rep was $199. per night. We reserved the exact same night on priceline.com for $60 per night! What about the lowest price guarantee?
I do understand that we don't receive Starwood points since purchased on priceline.com but I sure hope it still qualifies as a stay since I don't want to loose my accumulated points!
Thank you.

I was told that even if purchased on priceline.com, it still constitutes a stay. My sister who also checked with a Starwood rep was told that if purchased on priceline.com it does NOT constitute a stay.

One of us received the correct information but whom? Also, the price quoted by the rep was $199. per night. We reserved the exact same night on priceline.com for $60 per night! What about the lowest price guarantee?
I do understand that we don't receive Starwood points since purchased on priceline.com but I sure hope it still qualifies as a stay since I don't want to loose my accumulated points!
Thank you.

I think that you have answered your own question. If you don't earn points, you aren't considered active.

From T&C: "You will be considered an "Active Member" so long as you have earned Starpoints as a result of activities at participating Starwood Properties or as a result of use of the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express during the previous twelve months. Starpoints resulting from transfers or earnings from other programs do not count toward active status. Starwood Vacation Ownership Owners are not subject to the minimum stay requirement and will continue to be considered an "Active Member" as long as they own their Vacation Ownership interest and maintain their Starwood Vacation Ownership account in good standing."

"You will be considered an "Active Member" so long as you have earned Starpoints as a result of activities at participating Starwood Properties or as a result of use of the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express during the previous twelve months."

I do use this AmEx card exclusively but I've been told that I still need an actual stay. To me a stay is a stay....regardless of where you booked it or how much you paid for it.

"You will be considered an "Active Member" so long as you have earned Starpoints as a result of activities at participating Starwood Properties or as a result of use of the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express during the previous twelve months."

I do use this AmEx card exclusively but I've been told that I still need an actual stay. To me a stay is a stay....regardless of where you booked it or how much you paid for it.

Whoever told you that you needed an actual stay is wrong. You need to point out SPG's Terms and Conditions. Your definition of a stay and SPG's definition of a stay are different. I'm afraid that their definition is the one that counts here. SPG believes that it does matter where you booked it.

It doesn't constitute a stay; however, dining credit from a participating restaurant acts as a "stay transaction", which means nothing more than that it originated from a participating property.

That being said, not every restaurant at every participating property participates. Bleu Restaurant & Lounge at the Sheraton Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia doesn't, for instance. But, the Potcheen Restaurant & Lounge at this same property does. It all depends upon the hotel and the restaurant having a billing agreement between the two entities.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

I just came across this thread and was wondering if a "stay transaction" is discernable on spg.com and if so does it always appear under Account Activity whereby you have an open circle in the column under "Quick Book" followed by the hotel name, date, points credited, etc.? Are there any circumstances whereby this would not indicate a "stay transaction" for purposes of keeping an account active?

Searching "priceline" in this forum would find many questions and answers on the topic, but to sum up:

A priceline.com stay absolutely and positively will *not* count as a stay. You will not receive stay credit, you will not recieve Starpoints, and you will not receive any applicable status upgrades.

Keep in mind that although in some instances you can essentially pick a place (using biddingfortravel.com for instance) on Priceline, for all intents and purposes you have not selected a Starwood property and thus do not deserve "loyalty" credit.


Regarding keeping your account active, simply using your Starwood Preferred Guest credit card from American Express will keep you Starwood account active and in good standing.

I just came across this thread and was wondering if a "stay transaction" is discernable on spg.com and if so does it always appear under Account Activity whereby you have an open circle in the column under "Quick Book" followed by the hotel name, date, points credited, etc.? Are there any circumstances whereby this would not indicate a "stay transaction" for purposes of keeping an account active?

I'm checking, but may not have an answer until next week sometime.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

In the Terms and Conditions (emphasis added):

AWARD REDEMPTION AND STARPOINT TRANSFER RULES (http://www.starwood.com/preferredguest/terms_conditions.html#7)

General Terms

9. Certain awards may only be redeemed for Starpoints earned for eligible hotel stays, within the Program from Starwood or its earning partners, and not for those Starpoints transferred by conversion from other programs or earned from the use of credit cards. Currently, these include Weekend Preferred Award Nights at Category 1 and 2 hotels, the fifth night free Preferred Award Night, the and 5,000 bonus when transferring 20,000 Starpoints to participating airlines. Such awards may vary from time to time. Starpoints accrued in a member's account in conjunction with a transfer of currency from other Preferred Guest partners may be used for all other awards.

Almost all of my Starpoints over the years have been earned via your Starwood American Express credit card, and I have always been able to get the 5,000 mile bonus when transferring 20,000 points to an airline. So, suspecting that this is the same sort of error discussed in this thread, I called your customer service about this. The rep told me that any points in my account could be transferred with the bonus, no matter where I got them. Then I directed her to the above item in the terms and conditions of the program. She contacted a supervisor. After a long wait, she got back on the line and said that the only credit points that would not qualify for the bonus would be points from your Canadian Mastercard.

So, you were apparently successful in getting the terms and conditions changed to reflect actual practice re: expiriation of the account and Starwood Credit Card points. Could you do the same for this problem?

(Please respond. Else I will assume you have not seen this request and will post it as a separate topic. Thanks.)

In the Terms and Conditions (emphasis added):

AWARD REDEMPTION AND STARPOINT TRANSFER RULES (http://www.starwood.com/preferredguest/terms_conditions.html#7)

General Terms

9. Certain awards may only be redeemed for Starpoints earned for eligible hotel stays, within the Program from Starwood or its earning partners, and not for those Starpoints transferred by conversion from other programs or earned from the use of credit cards. Currently, these include Weekend Preferred Award Nights at Category 1 and 2 hotels, the fifth night free Preferred Award Night, the and 5,000 bonus when transferring 20,000 Starpoints to participating airlines. Such awards may vary from time to time. Starpoints accrued in a member's account in conjunction with a transfer of currency from other Preferred Guest partners may be used for all other awards.

Almost all of my Starpoints over the years have been earned via your Starwood American Express credit card, and I have always been able to get the 5,000 mile bonus when transferring 20,000 points to an airline. So, suspecting that this is the same sort of error discussed in this thread, I called your customer service about this. The rep told me that any points in my account could be transferred with the bonus, no matter where I got them. Then I directed her to the above item in the terms and conditions of the program. She contacted a supervisor. After a long wait, she got back on the line and said that the only credit points that would not qualify for the bonus would be points from your Canadian Mastercard.

So, you were apparently successful in getting the terms and conditions changed to reflect actual practice re: expiriation of the account and Starwood Credit Card points. Could you do the same for this problem?

(Please respond. Else I will assume you have not seen this request and will post it as a separate topic. Thanks.)

I'd be more than happy to pass it on to the marketing gurus. Whether or not they want to change anything will be up to them.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

I'd be more than happy to pass it on to the marketing gurus. Whether or not they want to change anything will be up to them.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Thanks. Maybe the legal gurus, too? Or maybe they should talk to each other?

I'm checking, but may not have an answer until next week sometime.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Thanks. I can wait for 360 days or so. :D

Thanks. Maybe the legal gurus, too? Or maybe they should talk to each other?

I would agree. I would be surprised if AMEX failed to include -- in their legal agreements with Starwood -- clauses protecting their customers from discrimination in terms of redemption opportunities.

... then again there is often a disconnect between legal "wisdom" and business "wisdom", so I should not be surprised. ;)

Thanks. I can wait for 360 days or so. :D

... but patience is not my strongest virtue always. Any updates, Mr. Lurker? :D

... but patience is not my strongest virtue always. Any updates, Mr. Lurker? :D

Nope. Never got an answer, which usually means that they aren't interested in changing anything.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Nope. Never got an answer, which usually means that they aren't interested in changing anything.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

I can understand not being interested in making a change. However, aren't they interested in clarifying whether or not an open circle in the column under "Quick Book" followed by the hotel name, date, points credited, etc. in Account Activity indicates a "stay transaction" or not?

I can understand not being interested in making a change. However, aren't they interested in clarifying whether or not an open circle in the column under "Quick Book" followed by the hotel name, date, points credited, etc. in Account Activity indicates a "stay transaction" or not?

No one I talked with seems to know the answer to this.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

No one I talked with seems to know the answer to this.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Thanks. So the safe measure is to be loyal to SPG at least once a year or through SPG AMEX. :)

Can points about to expire be redeemed for some type of award certificate? I know that Starwood awards are paperless when making a reservation, but can I get a paper certificate, for example 3 nights at a Category 4, that would be valid for a year, which I can use when I know where I would want to use it?

Can points about to expire be redeemed for some type of award certificate? I know that Starwood awards are paperless when making a reservation, but can I get a paper certificate, for example 3 nights at a Category 4, that would be valid for a year, which I can use when I know where I would want to use it?

No. The best thing would be to be sure the points don't expire or move them to an airline before they do.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

I have a friend who is President of one of our affiliated firms. Before that he was head of marketing. He booked us a conference at the Westin Maui and was given a 100,000 point bonus. His account lapsed and the points disappeared from his account. He talks about that everytime we talk about Starwood. He has not booked a Starwood since it found out he lost the points and they would not reinstate them.

There seems to be renewed interest in this topic.

There seems to be renewed interest in this topic.

Yes, and as usual there are multiple threads concerning this same topic. Anyhow, I believe William had answered this way back but now to all the AMEX users (and worriers) it is confirmed in the T&C that using the card only will keep your account active.

1. You will be considered an "Active Member" so long as you have earned Starpoints as a result of activities at participating Starwood Properties or as a result of use of the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express during the previous twelve months. Starpoints resulting from transfers or earnings from other programs do not count toward active status.

Hopefully this will put this to bed. ;)

See also Account expiration? (6 Feb 03) (definitive thread on the topic) (this thread)
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=175815

Staying an active member (28 Apr 03) http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=174136

Question for William about "Active Member" [use of SPG AmEX card]
(7 Mar 02)
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=170959

Hopefully this will put this to bed. ;)
Indeed. ^ ^ @:-)

My wife and I recently enjoyed nice tropical drinks at the Guam Westin.

Usually the Starpoints for such "meals" post with no difficulty. However, I also have the pale blue copy of the little white form (with red printing) ready to scan or photocopy and send off, should that become necessary.

In the most recent duplicate thread there has been complaint about the "shortness" of the one-year expiration period, with comparison to the WN Rapid Rewards program.

On the other hand, we all knew the Terms and Conditions when we signed up, and one year seems to be the current Hotel Industry standard -- unlike the general three-year Airline Industry standard.

It seems easy enough to keep track of one's stays, credit card use, or hotel dining to ensure annual activity.

No. The best thing would be to be sure the points don't expire or move them to an airline before they do.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

So, if I move my starwood points to an airline the day before they expire and then continue to accumulate as usual starwood points with my MBNA Mastercard, the "clock" goes back to zero and I could wait another year (minus 1 day) before transfering them again to an airline? Could you confirm?

Thanks.

So, if I move my starwood points to an airline the day before they expire and then continue to accumulate as usual starwood points with my MBNA Mastercard, the "clock" goes back to zero and I could wait another year (minus 1 day) before transfering them again to an airline? Could you confirm?

Thanks.

Not sure if I understand the issue. As long as you are actively using the SPG/MBNA Mastercard, you're Starpoints aren't going to expire, so I don't know why you would have to transfer them to an airline to keep them protected.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Not sure if I understand the issue. As long as you are actively using the SPG/MBNA Mastercard, you're Starpoints aren't going to expire, so I don't know why you would have to transfer them to an airline to keep them protected.



I think the confusion (at least for me) is that the T&C's only list the AMEX card as keeping the acct active, whereas LEMEX has an MBNA card.

I think the confusion (at least for me) is that the T&C's only list the AMEX card as keeping the acct active, whereas LEMEX has an MBNA card.

The SPG/MBNA credit card works exactly the same as the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express to keep accounts active. I was told they would be updating the T&C's to reflect this. Perhaps it fell off the radar for some reason. I will sent a reminder.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

The SPG/MBNA credit card works exactly the same as the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card from American Express to keep accounts active. I was told they would be updating the T&C's to reflect this. Perhaps it fell off the radar for some reason. I will sent a reminder.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

I am glad to hear that! Thank you for answering my question.

In the most recent duplicate thread of "outdated, inaccurate, and confusing information," a poster opines (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=4032680&postcount=33) that
Activity doesn't only mean adding - it could mean withdrawals. You could also hold an awards reservation - and then cancel it - they don't charge to put points back. You could even transfer the smallest amount.
Of course, this is flatly in contradiction to the Terms and Conditions, which require a "Stay Credit" (or SPG credit card points, or Starwood Vacation Ownership credit) to keep an account alive. Spending points does not extend the life of an account. I would cite a specific paragraph of the Terms and Conditions, butWe Are Currently Updating Our Site

Dear Guest,

We are currently doing maintenance on our Web site. Periodic maintenance helps us improve your online experience, enabling you to take care of your travel planning quickly and easily. Thank you for your patience. Please visit us later.

Best Wishes,
Starwood Hotels & ResortsUndoubtedly William can confirm.

This is a perennially popular topic!

Starpoints do not expire for Starwood Preferred Guest members as long as they maintain an active account. In order to keep your Starwood Preferred Guest account active, you will need to have earned Starpoints as a result of eligible charges being posted to your account from a participating Starwood property or from either of our affinity credit cards once every twelve rolling months. Starpoints resulting from transfers or earnings from other programs do not count towards maintaining active status. Neither does redeeming Starpoints work to maintain your account as being active.

Despite the recent email that may have clouded this issue, nothing has changed in this regard.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

As we begin a new year, it is always good to re-familiarize ourselves with this most important topic; most important, that is, to folks like myself who don't get out as much as I used to. :)

Maybe the Ninth Circuit will hear oral argument on one of my appeals this year.

Happy New Year, everyone!

I recently enjoyed nice tropical drinks at the Guam Westin.

Usually the Starpoints for such "meals" post with no difficulty. However, I also have the pale blue copy of the little white form (with red printing) ready to scan or photocopy and send off, should that become necessary.Does anyone know the official name of this form? At the Annapolis Barcello in September 2004, it took quite a while for the restaurant to find it.

Is it better to obtain a copy of this Starpoints form at the front desk or elsewhere?

This is a topic of perennial interest.

I just did something which, to my surprise, counted as account activity.

TD Ameritrade has a promo bumping their clients from Preferred to SPG Preferred Plus status upon request. I know that doesn't matter to elites here, but this action moved my account expiration date up to Feb. 29, 2008. I confirmed this with a rep.

I got a question about how to accumulate the reward fast.

IIRC, reward from all AMEX cards can be transferred to starwood points. Some other cards, e.g. gold, provide double/bonus reward. So using them should makes your reward accumulation faster than using starwood card.

So what's the point to use starwood card? I don't stay at starwood hotels very often. I know using Starwood card keeps my account active. Any other point for using this card?

I prefer to use the Starwood card because we often transfer points to AA and this airline is not offered through the Membership Rewards. Starwood works with just about all airlines, MR doesn't plus I love getting the 5,000 bonus everytime you transfer 20,000 points (actually get 25,000)

I heard from another board that the rate of transferring AMEX MR to starwood MR is 1000:333. Is this true?

I heard from another board that the rate of transferring AMEX MR to starwood MR is 1000:333. Is this true?

It can be in some instances; however, it depends a lot upon the country of origen and what kind of AMEX MR account you have. AMEX would be the best resource for finding out what your particular transfer ratio is.

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Hi William,

Thanks for the advise. I checked it with my personal gold, and the transfer rate indeed is 1000:333.

There has been another resurgence of interest in this topic.