Can you pass on your SkyMiles when you die?
Delta Air Lines' terms forfeit SkyMiles at death. While alive, the account holder can use transfers to another member and gift purchases.
Protecting SkyMiles while the account is active
No beneficiary designation, lifetime transfer options for miles, and 4-step plan.
How to protect your SkyMiles while you are alive →Someone died. Handling SkyMiles after a death
Miles are forfeited under the official terms, 4-step process, and 5 required documents.
What happens to SkyMiles when someone dies →Delta SkyMiles is Delta Air Lines' loyalty program. Miles are earned through flights, Delta SkyMiles co-branded American Express credit cards and partner programs, and are redeemed for Award Travel, seat upgrades and vacation packages. Medallion elite status runs from Silver to Diamond.
Under Delta Air Lines' terms, SkyMiles are forfeited when the account holder dies. While the account holder is alive, Delta Air Lines allows transfers to another member and gift purchases.
What happens to SkyMiles at death
- Forfeited at death
Under the Program Rules, miles are forfeited when a deceased Member's account is closed, and the rules provide no transfer of miles at death.1
Naming who acts after a death
- Designation
There is no way to name a beneficiary or successor on a SkyMiles account; miles move only between the accounts of living Members.1
Delta Air Lines publishes no process specific to a deceased person's account; the request starts by phone at 1-800-323-2323. There is no way to name a beneficiary or successor on a SkyMiles account.
Sources
Data sourced from Delta Air Lines primary sources (5 pages reviewed). How we research.
SkyMiles customer support
SkyMiles Member line (Delta General Sales & Services)
Phone
Hours
Website
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