Transfer credit card and airline points

Some airlines and credit card companies don't allow transferring points after death, meaning you or the person you’re planning for should transfer points or enroll in a family point pooling program before a passing.

Here are the contact numbers and policies for the largest credit cards:

  • Chase Ultimate Rewards

    • Official terms and conditions say that the points are forfeited with death. However, in practice, the points will be automatically redeemed for cash as an account statement credit.

    • Call Chase Rewards for more information: 1-800-432-3117

  • American Express Rewards

    • The authorized executor may redeem points for a one-time redemption as a gift card or through Membership Rewards transfer partner program.

    • Contact customer service for further assistance: 1-800-297-3276

  • Citi ThankYou Rewards

    • Points can be redeemed for cash rewards if a written request and documents certifying the death and affirming the identity of the executor are submitted within one year of death.

    • Contact ThankYou Service Center at 1-800-THANKYOU (1-800-842-6596).

  • Barclays

    • Their official policy states that points are not transferable, but you should contact the bank to see if they can make exceptions.

    • Call 1-877-523-0478

  • Bank of America

    • An authorized representative of the estate may request redemption, which must take place within 57 days of account closing. Redemption will be in the name of the deceased primary cardholder.

    • Contact 1-888-689-4466 for further assistance.

Here are the contact numbers for the largest airlines:

  • Alaska Airlines: 1-800-654-5669

  • American Airlines: 1-800-433-7300

  • Delta: 1-800-221-1212

  • JetBlue: 1-800-538-2583

  • Southwest: 1-800-435-9792

  • United: 1-800-421-4655

planning, getting organizedJennifer Goodplanning, terminal diagnosis, finance, financial and propertyComment