United and Marriott Reciprocal Benefits

Earlier in 2014, United teamed up with Marriott to create a program called RewardsPlus which offers reciprocal benefits for Marriott Platinum Members or United Premier Gold Status or higher members.

With Marriott Platinum status, you are able to get United Premier Silver Status by registering on this page.

So what can United Silver possibly get you? You could get access to Economy Plus at check in for you and one other guest, complimentary premier upgrades for you and a companion on paid flights, 25% premier bonus award miles, 1 free checked bag, priority check in and security screening where available, and better availability for United saver awards in economy. Also those who have both Silver Status and a Chase MileagePlus credit card will be eligible for upgrades on award tickets on United-operated flights. For a full list of benefits, check out their Premier benefits chart here.

Now before you jump for joy on reading about complimentary premier upgrades, you have to remember that there is a long list of other statuses that are ahead of you but it is not impossible to get upgrades. I’ve been lucky to get upgraded on 1 paid domestic flights and 1 award domestic flight this year by having Premier Silver Status through this reciprocal benefit so it is possible.

With United Premier Gold and higher status,  you are able to get Marriott Gold status by registering here.

So what can Marriott Gold Elite possibly get you? You can get 25% bonus on base points earned, priority late checkout, complimentary premium tiered internet access, room upgrade based on availability at check in, free daily continental breakfast, light snacks and beverages for members and one guest in the Executive Lounge. In the U.S. and Canada, choose between 750 bonus points or breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant if the lounge is closed. Resorts are excluded from this. To see a full list of benefits, check out this Marriott webpage.

So if you have one of the above statuses from Marriott or United, it is worth signing up for these free reciprocal benefits because you never know when they will become handy in your upcoming travels.