Transfer United Miles To Another Person: Rules, Costs, And Sharing Options [Updated On 2025]

Yes, you can transfer United miles to another person. Each transfer costs $7.50 for every 500 miles. There is also a $30 processing fee. The transfer has limits on the number of miles. You must follow the transfer rules set by United Airlines and complete the process within the specified time frame.

The cost of transferring miles is $7.50 per 1,000 miles, plus a 7.5% excise tax. This can add up quickly if you transfer a large quantity of miles. United does not charge any fees for receiving miles.

Another sharing option is through United’s “MileagePlus Family Sharing.” This feature allows multiple family members to pool their miles together. Maximum pooling limits apply, but members can easily combine miles for a group travel experience.

Consider your transfer needs before proceeding. Evaluating the rules and costs helps ensure you maximize your rewards efficiently.

In summary, understanding the rules for transferring United Miles is crucial. Knowing the costs can influence your decision. Next, we will explore how to effectively utilize your shared miles for booking flights and other rewards. This will guide you in optimizing your travel experiences with United Airlines.

Table of Contents

Can You Transfer United Miles to Another Person?

Yes, you can transfer United Miles to another person. However, there are specific rules and fees associated with this process.

Transferring United Miles is often a strategic move for travelers who want to combine points for future trips. United Airlines allows customers to transfer miles to friends or family, but a fee is charged for each transaction. Additionally, there are limits on the number of miles that can be transferred annually, and both parties must have United accounts. This system enables users to consolidate their points effectively but comes with considerations regarding costs and limits on transfer amounts.

What Are the Specific Policies United Airlines Enforces for Transferring Miles?

United Airlines has specific policies governing the transfer of miles. Members can transfer their miles to another person’s MileagePlus account, but there are associated fees and limits.

Eligibility: Only MileagePlus members can transfer miles.
Transfer Limit: Members can transfer a maximum of 100,000 miles per calendar year.
Fee: A fee of $7.50 per transaction applies, with an additional fee of 1.5 cents per mile transferred.
Non-refundable Miles: Transferred miles cannot be refunded to the original account.
Transfer Request: Members must complete the transfer using the United Airlines website or customer service.
Restrictions: Transferred miles do not count toward elite status or qualify for promotions.

Now, let’s delve into these points for a clearer understanding.

Eligibility: The eligibility criterion states that only MileagePlus members can transfer their miles. A MileagePlus member is anyone who has signed up for United Airlines’ loyalty program. This policy ensures that miles are only moved between individuals who are part of the same network, maintaining a level of security and identity verification.
Transfer Limit: The transfer limit sets a cap of 100,000 miles per calendar year. This limit reflects United’s strategy to control mile transfers and potentially encourage members to earn their miles instead of relying on transfers. This policy is particularly relevant for frequent flyers who may wish to share their miles with family or friends but need to be aware of the limitations.
Fee: United Airlines charges a fee of $7.50 for each transaction, along with a fee of 1.5 cents per mile transferred. This pricing policy serves multiple functions; it discourages casual transfers while also generating revenue for the airline. It is beneficial to assess the overall cost before proceeding with transfers, especially if transferring large quantities of miles.
Non-refundable Miles: Once miles are transferred, they cannot be refunded to the original account. This policy emphasizes the finality of the transfer process. Members should decide carefully before executing a transfer, as they will not be able to retrieve their miles once they move them.
Transfer Request: Members can complete the transfer through the United Airlines website or by reaching out to customer service. This accessibility ensures that members can navigate the process smoothly. The online transfer process is straightforward and involves inputting both the sender’s and receiver’s MileagePlus account information.
Restrictions: Transferred miles do not contribute to elite status qualification or promotional offers. This restriction reinforces the idea that transferring miles is a convenience for users rather than a way to circumvent the system for gaining elite status. It encourages users to earn their miles through travel or purchases to upgrade their loyalty status.

Understanding these policies can aid MileagePlus members in making informed decisions about transferring their miles efficiently.

How Many United Miles Can You Transfer to Another Person?

United Airlines allows members to transfer up to 100,000 miles to another person each calendar year. This transfer can occur in increments of 1,000 miles. The transfer incurs a fee of $7.50 for every 1,000 miles transferred, resulting in a total fee of $750 if the maximum limit is reached.

Transferring miles can be beneficial in various situations. For example, if a family member needs extra miles for a flight, a member can transfer miles to help book that trip. A member may also transfer miles to a friend to support their travel plans. However, both the sender and recipient must have a United MileagePlus account.

There are certain limitations to keep in mind. Transfers cannot occur between accounts that belong to the same person. Moreover, transferred miles do not count towards earning lifetime status or qualifying for elite benefits in the MileagePlus program. Additionally, these miles must be used according to the standard redemption rules and expiration policies.

In summary, each United Airlines MileagePlus member can transfer up to 100,000 miles annually, with associated fees. This option allows members to share miles for travel, but it comes with specific restrictions. For further exploration, consider reviewing the full transfer policy on United’s official website for detailed terms and conditions.

What Are the Limits on the Number of Miles You Can Transfer?

The limits on the number of miles you can transfer depend on the airline’s specific policies and membership status.

Transfer Limits:
– Maximum miles transfer per transaction.
– Maximum miles transfer per calendar year.
– Transfer fees associated with miles transfer.
– Eligibility criteria for miles transfer.
– Restrictions based on membership tier.

The rules governing the transfer of miles can vary significantly among airlines. Understanding these policies helps you effectively manage and utilize your miles.

Maximum Miles Transfer per Transaction:
The maximum miles transfer per transaction refers to the cap on the number of miles you can send to another person in one go. For example, many airlines, such as United Airlines, typically allow transfers of up to 30,000 miles per transaction.
Maximum Miles Transfer per Calendar Year:
Airlines limit the total number of miles that can be transferred in a calendar year. United Airlines sets a cap of 75,000 miles annually, which encourages members to plan their transfers wisely.
Transfer Fees Associated with Miles Transfer:
Many airlines impose transfer fees. United Airlines charges a fee of $7.50 for every 1,000 miles transferred. This fee can add up, making it important to calculate the total cost of the transfer.
Eligibility Criteria for Miles Transfer:
Some airlines have eligibility criteria, such as requiring that the miles belong to an active member. For example, United Airlines requires that the account from which miles are being transferred be open for at least 18 months. This requirement ensures that only valued members can transfer their hard-earned miles.
Restrictions Based on Membership Tier:
Certain membership tiers may have different transfer privileges. Members with higher-tier status may enjoy more flexibility in transferring miles compared to basic members. This structure rewards loyal customers and incentivizes higher membership levels.

By considering these limits and requirements, you can make informed choices about transferring miles within airline loyalty programs.

What Are the Costs of Transferring United Miles?

Transferring United Miles incurs specific costs, including fees per mile transferred and limitations on the total number of miles that can be transferred annually.

Transfer Fee: A fee of 1.5 cents per mile transferred.
Minimum and Maximum Transfer Amount: Minimum of 1,000 miles and a maximum of 100,000 miles per calendar year.
Eligibility: Only MileagePlus members can transfer miles.
Transaction Limitations: Transfers can only be made between members of the same account holder’s household without restrictions.
Potential Alternatives: Consider using miles for direct booking or pooling options before transferring.

The aforementioned points highlight the essential aspects of transferring United Miles. Now, let’s explore each point in detail.

Transfer Fee: The transfer fee for United Miles is 1.5 cents per mile transferred. This means if you choose to transfer 10,000 miles, you would pay a fee of $150. This amount can add up quickly, making transferring miles an expensive option compared to using them directly for flights or services.
Minimum and Maximum Transfer Amount: Each transfer must consist of a minimum of 1,000 miles. Additionally, there is a cap of 100,000 miles that each MileagePlus member can transfer within a calendar year. This limit ensures that miles are not excessively pooled between accounts, maintaining the integrity of individual loyalty benefits.
Eligibility: The ability to transfer miles is limited to MileagePlus members only. This means that you must have a registered account with United Airlines to initiate a transfer. The membership is necessary for identity verification and to prevent fraud.
Transaction Limitations: Transfers can only be made to other MileagePlus accounts that belong to members of the same household. This restriction is in place to facilitate sharing within families but may exclude friends or colleagues from benefiting from shared miles. This policy has raised discussions among users who feel that it limits the utility of their rewards.
Potential Alternatives: Before deciding to transfer miles, consider alternative options like direct booking with miles or using mile pooling options if available. These alternatives may yield better value and reduce the overall costs associated with transferring miles.

Understanding these factors can help members make informed decisions about how to manage their United Miles effectively.

Are There Any Promotions or Discounts Available for Transferring Miles?

Yes, promotions or discounts may be available for transferring miles. Airlines often run special offers that allow members to transfer their miles to others at a reduced rate or with bonus miles included. However, these promotions can vary widely among different airlines and are typically offered for a limited time.

When comparing airlines, many have their specific policies regarding mile transfers. For example, Delta Air Lines periodically offers promotions where customers can transfer miles with a reduced fee. In contrast, American Airlines may promote a bonus system, giving extra miles when transferring during specific promotional periods. These promotions often come with specific terms, including limits on the number of miles that can be transferred and the fees applied.

The benefits of transferring miles include the ability to help family or friends book flights. By transferring miles, individuals can consolidate their balances to ensure they have enough for specific trips. Moreover, some airlines offer bonus miles for transfers during promotional periods, making it a favorable option. For example, during certain promotions, you may receive a bonus of 25% additional miles when transferring a specific amount.

However, there are drawbacks to consider. Transferring miles typically incurs a fee, which can be substantial. For example, United Airlines charges a fee of $7.50 per 500 miles transferred. Additionally, not all airlines allow transfers, which limits options for some customers. These fees mean that in some cases, you may lose value, as the transfer may cost more than the value of the miles transferred.

When considering transferring miles, assess the urgency of needing the miles for someone else. If the transfer fee is too high, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a ticket or consider other options. Additionally, monitor your airline’s promotions regularly to maximize your benefits and ensure you are not missing out on potential savings. Always read the terms related to mile transfers for the specific airline you are using to ensure a smooth process.

How Do You Initiate a Transfer of United Miles?

To initiate a transfer of United Miles, you need to log into your MileagePlus account, navigate to the “Account” section, and then follow prompts to transfer miles to another person’s account.

Log into your MileagePlus account.
– Visit the United Airlines website and enter your credentials.
Navigate to the “Account” section.
– Once logged in, find the “MileagePlus” tab or “My Account” area.
Look for the option to transfer miles.
– Click on the “Transfer Miles” link, which typically appears under the account summary or mileage balance.
Enter the recipient’s details.
– Provide the recipient’s name and MileagePlus account number. Ensure that the account is active and in good standing.
Specify the number of miles to transfer.
– Determine how many miles you wish to send. United allows transfers in increments of 1,000 miles.
Review and confirm the transfer.
– Check all details are correct and confirm the transaction.
Complete the payment.
– United Airlines charges a fee to transfer miles. The fee is $7.50 for each 500 miles transferred, along with a processing fee of $30 per transaction.
Finish the transfer process.
– After payment, you will receive a confirmation email. The miles typically appear in the recipient’s account within 48 hours.

Following these steps ensures a smooth transfer of United Miles to another MileagePlus member. Keep in mind the limitations, such as the maximum miles that can be transferred annually.

What Steps Should You Follow for the Miles Transfer Process?

The steps you should follow for the miles transfer process are straightforward.

Verify eligibility for miles transfer.
Log into your airline account.
Navigate to the “Miles Transfer” section.
Enter the recipient’s details.
Specify the number of miles to transfer.
Review any fees associated with the transfer.
Confirm the transaction.

Some individuals might argue against transferring miles due to potential depreciation in value or alternate redemption options. Conversely, others see transferring miles as a beneficial way to help family and friends. Each perspective has its merits based on individual goals and preferences for utilizing miles.

Transitional sentence: Understanding the detailed steps will ensure a smooth transfer process.

Verify Eligibility for Miles Transfer:
Verifying eligibility for miles transfer sets the foundation for a successful transaction. Airlines typically have specific requirements regarding who can transfer miles and under what conditions. For instance, some airlines may restrict transfers to family members or those on the same itinerary. Check the airline’s policies regarding transfer limits. Each airline has its guidelines, and familiarity with these rules prevents potential delays or rejections.
Log into Your Airline Account:
Logging into your airline account allows access to personal information and mileage balance. This is crucial for initiating the transfer process. Make sure to use the official website or mobile app for security reasons. If you encounter issues, most airlines provide customer support to assist with login problems. A secure login helps protect your information during the transfer.
Navigate to the “Miles Transfer” Section:
Navigating to the “Miles Transfer” section is essential to initiate the process. This section is often found under “Manage Miles” or “Account Services.” Familiarize yourself with the interface to find this option quickly. Recognizing the layout can save time and frustration. Once you locate the appropriate section, you’ll be ready to input the transfer information.
Enter the Recipient’s Details:
Entering the recipient’s details accurately ensures proper transfer of miles. This typically includes their full name and frequent flyer number or account information. Any errors may result in delays or the transfer being rejected. Double-check the entered information to confirm it’s correct, as incomplete or erroneous data could complicate the transaction.
Specify the Number of Miles to Transfer:
Specifying the number of miles to transfer is a key step in the process. Each airline may have limitations on how many miles you can transfer at once or within a specified timeframe. Be aware of any minimum and maximum miles required for a transfer. This knowledge will help you make an informed decision and maximize the benefits of your miles.
Review Any Fees Associated with the Transfer:
Reviewing fees associated with the transfer is important to understanding the total cost. Some airlines may charge a transfer fee per transaction or apply taxes. It’s advisable to compare this cost against other redemption methods, such as booking flights directly. Understanding the total expense ensures you can decide whether to proceed with the transfer.
Confirm the Transaction:
Confirming the transaction finalizes the miles transfer. This step often includes a summary of the recipient’s details, the number of miles, and any applicable fees. Ensure all information is correct before submitting. After confirmation, you should receive a notification or email indicating that the transfer is complete. Retaining this confirmation is beneficial for future reference.

By following these steps and understanding each aspect of the miles transfer process, you can ensure a smooth and accurate experience.

What Alternatives Exist for Sharing United Miles?

Several alternatives exist for sharing United Airlines miles.

Transferring miles to another MileagePlus member.
Using miles for award bookings for family or friends.
Pooling miles through a travel companion program.
Purchasing miles for others.
Donating miles to charity.

These alternatives present various options depending on the situation and preferences of MileagePlus members.

Transferring Miles: Transferring miles allows a MileagePlus member to send miles to another MileagePlus account. There is a fee associated with this service, which can vary depending on the number of miles transferred. Members can transfer up to 176,000 miles per year, but they must ensure they adhere to the transfer policies set by United Airlines.
Using Miles for Award Bookings: Using miles for award bookings is a popular option. Members can use their miles to book flights for family and friends. This approach is beneficial when traveling together or gifting a flight. Award availability can impact the process, so members should check the United Airlines website for options.
Pooling Miles: Pooling miles through a travel companion program enables members to share their accumulated miles with others, typically through a designated partner. This option allows family or close friends to combine their miles, making it easier to reach the required amount for a flight. However, not all MileagePlus members may be eligible for this program.
Purchasing Miles for Others: Purchasing miles allows members to buy additional miles for another person’s account. This option can be useful if someone is close to the required number of miles for a flight. United Airlines offers the option to buy miles directly through their website, providing a structured and straightforward process.
Donating Miles: Donating miles to charity is another alternative. United Airlines collaborates with specific organizations to allow members to donate their miles for charitable causes. This strategy not only helps others but also provides a meaningful way to utilize unused miles.

In summary, United Airlines offers various alternatives for sharing miles among MileagePlus members. Each option has unique benefits and guidelines. Members should evaluate these alternatives to find the best fit for their needs.

Can You Use a Mileage Pooling Program to Share United Miles?

No, you cannot use a mileage pooling program to share United Miles. United Airlines does not offer a formal mileage pooling program for its miles.

United Airlines does allow for some ways to share miles, but they are not free and have specific guidelines. Members can transfer miles to another person’s account for a fee. However, there are limits on the number of miles you can transfer each year. Transferred miles can help friends or family book travel, but they cannot be pooled for joint use. This policy ensures that miles are allocated according to individual accounts, maintaining the integrity of frequent flyer rewards.

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