As we posted here, some great new improvements to the Marriott Rewards program!

Guide To Marriott’s New Cash + Points

Here’s a rundown of the changes the program announced:

• NEW Cash + Points: Coming in early 2016, the NEW Cash + Points will give Rewards members the flexibility to use a mix of cash and points to cover single or multi-night redemption stays.
• Points Advance: Available now! Marriott Rewards and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards members are able to book redemption stays before having sufficient points to cover the cost of that stay.
• Points Sharing: Beginning Oct. 12, 2015 Marriott Rewards and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards members will have the ability to share points with friends and family. Members can transfer up to 50,000 points from their account each year!
• Redemption Stay Credit: Starting Nov. 1, 2015 Marriott Rewards and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards members will earn  Elite night credit on redemption nights paid for with points.

Let’s look at the NEW Cash + Points option:

Stay your way with the NEW Cash + Points 

• Starting in early 2016

We’re adding the freedom to mix cash and points to cover single or multi-night redemption stays. With as few as 3,000 points and $45 cash you are on your way. So whatever combination works for you there’s no more waiting. See all the combinations

Cash + Points is available to book today for stays of two or more nights by combining redemption and cash nights when you book online.

In early 2016, you’ll be able to book 1 night (or longer) with the new Cash + Points system.  This is a great way to stretch points and you’ll also earn elite status credit on these bookings.

Bottom Line

The Marriott changes are all good for us travelers which is refreshing! If you are a Marriott fan, these changes will give you more options! In the next posts, we will look at the other 3 new improvements.