In Memoriam, FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2000
Location: Benicia CA
Programs: Alaska MVP Gold 75K, AA 3.8MM, UA 1.1MM, enjoying the retired life
Posts: 31,849
20,000 miles, even at a minimum value of 1 cent per mile, are worth about $200, and maybe more depending how you use them. Granted you didn't get the cash you wanted, but the miles do have some value. I'd probably still write the letter and enclose a copy of the receipt, and just see what happens. Worst case, you at least have the miles.