Estate planning as a World of Hyatt account holder

World of Hyatt is widely considered the most valuable hotel loyalty currency on a per-point basis. Points can be redeemed for free nights at Hyatt, Park Hyatt, Andaz, Grand Hyatt, Alila, and Thompson brands, as well as transferred to 25+ airline partners. Hyatt has a limited death transfer provision: points (but not elite status or awards) can be transferred one time to one person who shares the same residential mailing address as the deceased member. This is more restrictive than Marriott or Hilton, making lifetime planning essential.

World of Hyatt offers a no-cost transfer of points to family members after the account holder's death.

During their lifetime, World of Hyatt members can transfer points to other program members for a fee. This provides a straightforward way to share accumulated value.

What happens at death

The World of Hyatt Terms state: "In the case of documented death of a Member, points (but not elite status or awards) are transferable on a one-time basis to one (1) person sharing the same residential mailing address as the deceased Member, and receipt of points in such a transfer requires the recipient to be a Member." Key restrictions: (1) the recipient must share the same residential address as the deceased; (2) the recipient must already be a World of Hyatt member; (3) one-time transfer to one person only; (4) elite status, awards, Free Nights, Points + Cash, and upgrades do NOT transfer. The Terms also explicitly state: "Points may not be transferred via divorce or inheritance" and "Points do not constitute property of the Member."

Frequently asked questions