Unable to modify name on points reservation?
 

I thought this was a problem with just the Megabonus certificates, but I was trying to redeem points for my wife (I will not be traveling with her) - but I was unable to modify the name of the guest.

The website asks me to call into Marriott reservations to make gift reservations instead.

Is this new?

No, its always been this way for some odd, time consuming reason. Best to make the reservation in your name and add your wife as a second guest. I've never had a problem...

Make the rez in your name and then call and add your wife's name as a second party. If you get a smart agent, s/he will even swap the names.

I was recently looking at the T&Cs for something (maybe I need a hobby) and technically, you are asking for the certificate issued using the points to be issued in a third party's name (your wife, in this case) so she can use it for a reservation in her name. (See #8 here.)

I've run into this also. I called to ask to have my wife's name added to a reservation I had made for her and ended up receiving an entirely new set of reservation confirmations/welcome to/in advance of your trip/etc emails from Marriott and the property.

I guess it's just how they work.

Yes call. They told me it was for security reasons in case your account was hacked. On the phone they verify that it is you (I forget how).

I was able to book a room in my name and called & they switched it to my son.

If you've set up a PIN to access your account they'll request the PIN on the phone.

Cheers.