Many people rack up huge numbers of airline miles and hotel reward points while they travel around the country. When one person stays at home caring for the house and family while the other is out on the road, only the one traveling spouse is racking up travel points and rewards but the spouse at home makes it possible for the other to travel. It is definitely a team effort and most courts recognize that as a marital effort, both spouses should be able to take advantage of the accrued benefits.
Generally speaking, most divorcing couples divide the miles and reward points as they would other accounts or property. They may be divided 50/50 or one person may take all the hotel points while the other may take all the frequent flyer miles. Most reward programs and airlines will honor a transfer of points or miles to another under these circumstances. The point-earner may need to request forms from the hotel or airline and may need to provide a copy of the court order or the legal agreement dividing the points and miles.
If a particular airline or hotel does not allow for the transfer of miles or rewards, the spouse with the miles and rewards may need to provide the other spouse with more assets to make the total property distribution equal, or that spouse must be involve di making reservations for the other spouse using the points. Spouses may also decide to manage the miles and rewards in this manner simply to avoid the hassle of transferring the miles or rewards.
Getting Legal Help
Experienced Sacramento Family Law Attorney Hal Bartholomew can help you get through your divorce with dignity and compassion. Contact Bartholomew & Wasznicky LLP today for knowledgeable and respectful representation. Call us at (916) 546-4393.
