A LoyaltyLobby reader sent us an image of a “Your account is under audit” message that had popped up when trying to log in to their Marriott Bonvoy account and was wondering what was going on?
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We don’t often receive messages from readers whose account would be under audit by Marriott compared to airlines, such as United or American, that really go after members who sell miles, awards, or upgrades.
Suppose Marriott has put your Bonvoy account under audit. In that case, it means that someone at the company or any of their affiliates believes or suspects that you have violated some of the Terms and Conditions of the program (have you read them – roughly length of 30,000 words?).
Two main reasons for account audits (really suspension):
1. You are behind Marriott Vacation Club payments or fees. They are very aggressive in suspending Bonvoy accounts if your account is not current.
2. Property has reported that you have not settled your accommodation bill. For example, the hotel may have failed to settle the stay to your card upon your leaving, it was later declined, or you have wrongfully disputed it.
Other possible reasons:
3. Selling awards; if Marriott suspects that you have traded or bartered awards, certificates, or points.
4. Hotel reports that you have violated rules and/or were threatening to a team member.
5. Booking stays for others under your account.
6. An excessive number of reservations and cancellations for speculative bookings.
7. Any other reason Marriott or hotel deem your account to be in violation of their rules.
Conclusion
Airlines have traditionally been rather aggressive in trying to bust members who violate their program rules. They don’t ban you from flying but rather participating in their frequent flyer programs.
The most common reason for Marriott Bonvoy’s “account audits” are Vacation Club-related issues such as non-payment of yearly maintenance fees.
Have your Marriott or any other loyalty program account been under audit, and why? Were you able to resolve the possible issue(s)?
I have recently made a boatload of reservations and cancelled due to covid issues and changes in some countries and cities. But, now all my reservations are fine. Hope I don’t get an audit.
No. This is for truly speculative reservations.
Thanks 👍
“5. Booking stays for others under your account”
if i book 2 rooms, 1 for me, 1 for my family members, is that ok?
You can earn points for up to three rooms (you need to be staying at one of them). Nothing wrong with this.
I sometimes make reservations for others using my Bonvoy account. I don’t even know if points are credited for reservations that don’t have my name on them? It’s mainly to help close friends and family who don’t know how to make reservations themselves… Yes, there are still such people around 🙂
You can book for other even when not personally present but not under your account. That is violation of Marriott Bonvoy T&Cs and likely will end up getting your account eventually in trouble.
You can book for other even when not personally present but not under your account. That is violation of Marriott Bonvoy T&Cs and likely will end up getting your account eventually in trouble.
Who can imagine that hotel companies, which seek to retain their best customers, conduct audits of those who do not abuse the terms and conditions?
By the way, I love the “I sometimes make reservations for others using my Bonvoy account. It’s mainly to help close friends and family who don’t know how to make reservations themselves.”
You forgot fraud, unauthorized access, trying to protect your points.