Originally Posted by SeattleDavid

Just be careful not to confuse EQMs (Elite Qualifying Miles - the ones you need to earn for your challenge, where the only 'bonuses' are for class of travel) with RDMs (Redeemable Miles - the ones that you earn and can use for free flights and that come with bonuses due to your status).

All too often people say 'miles' and it is hard to tell which they really mean - and the difference is very, very important (especially when flying partner airlines).