Transferring miles on United can be a great way to get the most out of your travel rewards. However, it’s important to understand the rules and restrictions before you transfer your miles. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about transferring United miles, including how to do it, who you can transfer to, and what the fees are.
Who can you transfer United miles to?
You can transfer United miles to any other MileagePlus member. However, there are some restrictions. You can only transfer miles to a member who has been a MileagePlus member for at least 30 days. Additionally, you can only transfer miles to a member who has a valid MileagePlus account.
How much does it cost to transfer United miles?
The cost of transferring United miles varies depending on the number of miles you’re transferring. The fee is $0.015 per mile, with a minimum fee of $25. This means that if you’re transferring 1,000 miles, you’ll pay a fee of $15. If you’re transferring 10,000 miles, you’ll pay a fee of $150.
Transferring United MileagePlus Miles to Another Account
You can transfer your United MileagePlus miles to friends, family, or other United accounts and share your travel rewards. However, there are certain conditions and limitations to consider when making these transfers.
Here are the key details you should know:
Eligibility to Transfer Miles
To transfer United MileagePlus miles, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a member of the MileagePlus program.
- Have an active United MileagePlus account in good standing.
- Have accumulated a sufficient number of miles in your account.
- Ensure that the recipient of the miles is also a MileagePlus member.
Transfer Fees
There are both standard and non-standard transfer fees associated with moving United MileagePlus miles.
Here’s a breakdown of the fees:
| Transfer Type | Standard Fee | Non-Standard Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer to United Family Members | $0 | $0 |
| Transfer to Other MileagePlus Members | $15 per transaction | $7.50 per 1,000 miles transferred |
Transfer Limits
When transferring United MileagePlus miles, there are certain limits that apply.
Here’s an overview of the transfer limits:
- Minimum miles transfer: 1,000 miles
- Maximum miles transfer per transaction: 100,000 miles
- Maximum miles transfer per calendar year: 500,000 miles
- All companions must be enrolled in MileagePlus.
- The primary member must initiate the transfer.
- Miles can be transferred in increments of 500 miles, with a minimum of 1,000 miles per transfer.
- Ease of sharing miles with loved ones.
- Flexibility to pool miles for larger rewards.
- Only available to MileagePlus members.
- Transfer fees may apply.
- Both the sender and recipient must have MileagePlus accounts.
- Miles can be transferred in increments of 500 miles, with a minimum of 1,000 miles per transfer.
- Ease of gifting or sharing miles.
- Flexibility to support others in redeeming for rewards.
- Only available to MileagePlus members.
- Transfer fees may apply.
- The partner airline or hotel chain must be a MileagePlus partner.
- Miles can be transferred in accordance with the partner’s terms and conditions.
- Greater flexibility in redeeming miles.
- Access to exclusive rewards and benefits offered by partners.
- Limited availability of transfer partners.
- Transfer fees may apply.
- Transfer times can vary depending on the partner.
- Sign in to your United MileagePlus account. Go to the United website and click on “Sign In” at the top right corner of the page. Enter your username and password to access your account.
- Click on “MileagePlus Transfer.” Once you’re logged in, click on the “MileagePlus” tab and select “MileagePlus Transfer” from the dropdown menu.
- Select the “Transfer Miles” option. On the MileagePlus Transfer page, click on the “Transfer Miles” tab.
- Enter the recipient’s information. In the “Transfer to” field, enter the MileagePlus account number of the person you want to transfer miles to. If they don’t have a MileagePlus account, you can create one for them by clicking on the “Create an Account” button.
- Enter the number of miles you want to transfer. In the “Transfer Amount” field, enter the number of miles you want to transfer. The minimum transfer amount is 1,000 miles, and the maximum transfer amount is 1 million miles per year.
- Review and submit the transfer request. Once you’ve entered all the required information, review the transfer details and click on the “Submit” button to complete the transfer. You’ll see a confirmation page with the details of the transfer.
- Miles can only be transferred between MileagePlus members.
- There is a fee of $7.50 per transfer.
- Miles can be transferred to and from any MileagePlus account, regardless of status.
- Miles transfers are processed within 24 hours.
- Club MileagePlus
- Corporate MileagePlus
- Government MileagePlus
- Suspended accounts
- Sign in to your United MileagePlus account.
- Click on the "Transfer Miles" tab.
- Enter the recipient’s MileagePlus number and the number of miles you want to transfer.
- Review the transfer details and click on the "Transfer Miles" button.
- The miles will be transferred to the recipient’s account within 24 hours.
Understanding Eligibility Requirements
Account Status
To transfer miles on United, you must have an active MileagePlus account. Your account must be in good standing, with no past due balances or outstanding fees. If your account is deactivated or suspended, you will not be able to transfer miles.
Tier Status
United MileagePlus members have three tier statuses: Premier Silver, Premier Gold, and Premier Platinum. Premier Silver and Gold members are eligible to transfer miles at a rate of 1,000 miles per transaction, while Premier Platinum members can transfer miles at a rate of 2,500 miles per transaction.
Premier Silver and Gold Members
* Transfer rate: 1,000 miles per transaction
* Minimum transfer amount: 1,000 miles
* Maximum transfer amount: 5,000 miles per 24 hours
* Transfer fee: $30 per transaction
Premier Platinum Members
* Transfer rate: 2,500 miles per transaction
* Minimum transfer amount: 2,500 miles
* Maximum transfer amount: 10,000 miles per 24 hours
* Transfer fee: $30 per transaction
Determining the Transfer Fee
The transfer fee for United MileagePlus miles varies depending on several factors:
1. Transfer Partner:
Different transfer partners have different fees. Some partners, such as Chase Ultimate Rewards and American Express Membership Rewards, offer free transfers. Others, such as Capital One Venture Miles and Citi ThankYou Points, charge a fee per 1,000 miles transferred.
2. Transfer Amount:
The transfer fee is typically higher for larger transfer amounts. For example, Chase may charge a fee of $5 for transfers of 1,000 miles and $10 for transfers of 5,000 miles.
3. Elite Status:
United MileagePlus elite members enjoy reduced or waived transfer fees. for example, silver members receive a 30% discount on transfer fees, while gold members receive a 50% discount. Platinum and diamond members enjoy free transfers.
The table below summarizes the transfer fees for different elite levels and transfer partners:
| Elite Status | Transfer Fee |
|---|---|
| Silver | 30% discount on transfer fees |
| Gold | 50% discount on transfer fees |
| Platinum | Free transfers |
| Diamond | Free transfers |
Selecting the Transfer Method
United Airlines offers various methods to transfer miles, each with its advantages and limitations. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each option:
Companion Transfer
This method allows MileagePlus members to pool their miles with up to 10 companions, including family and friends. Miles can be combined to redeem for flights, upgrades, and other rewards, making it an ideal way to share the benefits of accumulated miles.
Requirements:
Benefits:
Limitations:
Inter-Account Transfer
This method allows MileagePlus members to transfer miles to other MileagePlus accounts. It’s a convenient way to gift miles or help family members or friends redeem for rewards.
Requirements:
Benefits:
Limitations:
Partner Transfer
This method allows MileagePlus members to transfer miles to loyalty programs of partner airlines and hotel chains. It’s a great way to expand redemption options and earn additional loyalty benefits.
Requirements:
Benefits:
Limitations:
Initiating the Transfer Process
To initiate the transfer process, follow these steps:
Additional Information
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when transferring miles on United:
Processing Time and Confirmation
Once you initiate a miles transfer, United will process the request within a specific timeframe. The processing time can vary depending on the transfer method used and the availability of miles in the donor account. Here’s an overview of the processing times for different transfer methods:
| Transfer Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Online via United.com | Instant |
| Over the phone with United Customer Service | 24-48 hours |
| By mail | 7-10 business days |
Once the transfer is complete, you will receive a confirmation email or text message with details of the transaction, including the number of miles transferred and the recipient account. You can also check the status of your miles transfer through the MileagePlus account page on United’s website.
Transfer Fees
When transferring miles between United MileagePlus accounts, there are usually no transfer fees involved. However, if you transfer miles to another airline’s frequent flyer program, fees may apply.
Mileage Transfer Limits and Restrictions
United Airlines places certain limits and restrictions on mileage transfers to ensure fair and efficient use of its MileagePlus program. These limitations help maintain the integrity of the program and prevent abuse.
Membership Tiers and Transfer Limits
The number of miles you can transfer annually varies depending on your MileagePlus membership tier:
| Tier | Annual Transfer Limit |
|---|---|
| Basic and Silver | 100,000 miles |
| Gold | 150,000 miles |
| Platinum | 200,000 miles |
| 1K | 250,000 miles |
| Global Services | No limit |
Transfer Fees
United Airlines charges a transfer fee of $0.005 per mile, with a minimum fee of $2.50 per transfer. This fee applies to all mileage transfers, regardless of the number of miles transferred or the recipient’s membership tier.
Transfer Timeframes
Mileage transfers are typically processed within 24-48 hours. However, during peak periods or when there are technical issues, processing times may be longer.
Ineligible Accounts
Miles cannot be transferred to accounts that are frozen, closed, or not in good standing.
Recipient Eligibility
Miles can only be transferred to MileagePlus members with an active account. Recipients must provide their MileagePlus number at the time of transfer.
Transfer Limits for Specific Partners
Some United partners may impose additional transfer limits or restrictions. For example, Aeroplan members can only transfer up to 100,000 miles to United per year.
Combining Multiple Mileage Accounts
If you have multiple United MileagePlus accounts, you can combine them into a single account to simplify your travel planning and maximize your mileage rewards. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Only MileagePlus members in good standing are eligible to combine accounts. You must also be the primary account holder on both accounts.
Step 2: Gather Account Information
You will need the account numbers and passwords for both accounts.
Step 3: Contact United Customer Service
Call United Customer Service at 1-800-421-4655 or visit a United MileagePlus Service Center.
Step 4: Provide Account Information
Provide the customer service representative with the account numbers and passwords for both accounts.
Step 5: Confirm Transfer
The customer service representative will verify the account information and confirm the transfer. The process typically takes 10-15 business days to complete.
Step 6: Check Mileage Balance
Once the transfer is complete, check your combined account balance to ensure all miles have been transferred.
Important Considerations:
When combining MileagePlus accounts, the following rules apply:
Combining Miles Only
Only miles and Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs) will be transferred. All other benefits, such as status, elite qualification, and miles earned through credit card spending, will not be combined.
One Primary Account Only
You can only have one primary MileagePlus account. If you combine accounts, the account with the highest lifetime miles or Premier status will become the primary account.
Mileage Transfer Eligibility
**Eligible for transfer:**
| Transferor | Recipient |
|---|---|
| Primary account holder | Primary or MileagePlus Explorer account |
| MileagePlus Explorer | MileagePlus Explorer |
**Not eligible for transfer:**
Donating Miles to Charity
United Airlines offers a program that allows its MileagePlus members to donate their miles to various charitable organizations. This is a great way to support a cause you care about while also earning some good karma. Here are the steps on how to donate your miles:
1. Visit the United Airlines website and log in to your MileagePlus account.
2. Click on the “Donate Miles” tab.
3. Select the charity you want to donate to from the list of participating organizations.
4. Enter the number of miles you want to donate.
5. Click on the “Donate” button.
Your miles will be transferred to the charity within 24 hours. You will receive a confirmation email from United Airlines once the donation is complete.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when donating miles to charity:
– You can donate any number of miles, even if it’s just a few hundred.
– There is no fee to donate miles.
– Your miles will not expire if you donate them to charity.
– You can track the status of your donation by logging into your MileagePlus account and clicking on the “Donate Miles” tab.
Eligible Charities
United Airlines has partnered with a number of charities that are eligible to receive miles donations. These charities include:
– American Red Cross
– American Cancer Society
– Make-A-Wish Foundation
– Salvation Army
– Points of Light Foundation
Troubleshooting Transfer Issues
Encountering difficulties transferring your United miles? Here are some common issues and their solutions to assist you:
1. Invalid MileagePlus Number
Ensure you have entered the correct MileagePlus number associated with your United account.
2. Transfer Limits Exceeded
United limits the number of miles that can be transferred within a single transaction or over a specific period. Check the United website for transfer limits and consider transferring smaller amounts.
3. Expired or Inactive MileagePlus Account
Your MileagePlus account must be active and unexpired. Contact United customer service to resolve any account issues.
4. Unauthorized Transfer
If you suspect an unauthorized transfer from your account, promptly report it to United customer service to protect your miles.
5. Insufficient Miles Balance
Check your MileagePlus account balance to ensure you have enough miles to transfer. Consider earning additional miles before attempting the transfer.
6. System Outages or Technical Errors
Occasionally, system outages or technical issues may prevent transfers. Retry the transfer after some time or contact United customer service for assistance.
7. Incompatible Accounts
Not all airlines and hotel loyalty programs are eligible for mileage transfer to United. Check United’s website for a list of participating partners.
8. Delays in Processing
Transfers may take up to 5 business days to process. Allow sufficient time for the miles to appear in your United account.
9. Transfer Fee Issues
Some transfers may incur a fee. Check with United or the transfer partner if any fees apply and ensure you have the necessary funds to cover them.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I transfer miles to another United member’s account? | Yes, you can transfer miles to other MileagePlus members within the same household. |
| Is there a minimum number of miles required for a transfer? | Yes, United requires a minimum of 1,000 miles per transfer. |
| Can I cancel a transfer once it has been initiated? | No, once a transfer is initiated, it cannot be canceled. |
How to Transfer Miles on United
Transferring miles on United is a convenient way to share rewards with family and friends or to consolidate your miles into a single account. It’s easy to do and can be completed in just a few steps.
Steps to Transfer Miles on United
People Also Ask About How to Transfer Miles on United
How many miles can I transfer at a time?
You can transfer a minimum of 1,000 miles and a maximum of 100,000 miles per transaction. You can make multiple transfers if you need to transfer more miles.
Is there a fee to transfer miles?
There is no fee to transfer miles between United MileagePlus members.
How long does it take for miles to transfer?
Miles are typically transferred to the recipient’s account within 24 hours.
Can I transfer miles to someone who is not a United MileagePlus member?
No, you can only transfer miles to other United MileagePlus members.
What if I make a mistake when transferring miles?
If you make a mistake when transferring miles, you can contact United Customer Service to request a reversal. However, there is no guarantee that the reversal will be processed.
