Marriott Bonvoy elite status “soft landing” policy: How to re-qualify for status
It’s official: Marriott is offering a “soft landing” for Marriott Bonvoy Elite members do not re-qualify in 2024.
Specifically, the brand will offer Marriott Bonvoy members who do not qualify for current status in 2024 the opportunity to maintain this status one step below from March 2025 until February 2024. 2026. Loyalty Lobby first time reporting this news.
Here’s what you need to know.
Related: Last-minute tips for retaining your hotel’s elite status
Marriott elite status soft landing policy
The Marriott status you earned in 2023 will expire at the end of February unless you qualify for your current level or achieve a higher status level in 2024. But what happens if you don’t? qualify for the same or higher status?
That’s where Marriott’s generous “soft landing” policy comes in. Whether you qualify at a much lower level than your current status or don’t qualify for status at all in 2024, you’ll only drop one status level in 2024. 2025.
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According to Marriott’s website: “In early March 2025, Members who do not regain their current Elite Status will be offered one step below their current status through February 2026.”
With this noticeMembers who do not qualify for the current status level will keep the level immediately below their expired status for the next five statuses:
- Ambassador Elite members who do not qualify in 2024 will have Titanium Elite status until February 2026.
- Titanium Elite members who do not qualify in 2024 will have Platinum Elite status until February 2026.
- Platinum Elite members who do not qualify in 2024 will have Gold Elite status until February 2026.
- Gold Elite members who do not qualify in 2024 will have Silver Elite status until February 2026.
It’s worth mentioning that Marriott had introduced similar policies before the pandemic. This was paused when Marriott extended elite status earned in 2019 and 2020 until February 2023, and it was reinstated the following year. This “soft landing” policy is a win-win: It benefits members who otherwise wouldn’t be able to qualify for status, while also giving them an incentive to remain loyal to Marriott and have can try again to gain status next year.
Related: What is Marriott Bonvoy elite status worth?
Bottom line
Mid-level and senior Marriott Bonvoy elite members who did not qualify for participation in 2024 will not be left empty-handed in 2025.
With Titanium Elite status, expiring Ambassador Elite members will enjoy many of the same perks as their current status, including free breakfast at most brands, suite upgrades at check-in ( including at Ritz-Carlton hotels), earn 75% bonus points, select benefits, and match status with United Premier Silver. Platinum Elite also has many of the same benefits that Titanium Elite status provides.
You’ll see your new Marriott status and updated deadline updated in early March.
