Hotel Loyalty Program Status Matches & Challenges [Guide]

Most travelers enjoy the special treatment they receive from having hotel loyalty program elite status… so much so that long-term relationships may be built with the hotel brand preference, and in the process, the traveler becomes qualified for hotel elite status.

Once you’ve grown accustomed to upgraded rooms, executive lounge access, late check-out, complimentary breakfast, and other amenities, it can be difficult to break away and stay at other hotel chains.

Fortunately, with hotel loyalty program status matches and challenges, you may not have to give up those hard-earned perks to try out a new brand — and that is our topic today.

We’re going to talk about utilizing your current hotel loyalty program elite status to receive corresponding complimentary elite status in another hotel loyalty program. This strategy can be extremely helpful if you’ve relocated, changed jobs, or you simply want to try a different hotel brand.

Let’s get started by covering which hotel programs offer these status matches/challenges, the requirements, and the process for submitting a request. We’ll also discuss some of the benefits you can expect to receive with elite status. We’ve included our recommendations for hotel-branded credit cards that may offer an even faster path to elite status or that compliment the specific hotel rewards program.

It’s a lot to cover, so let’s get started.

Table of contents

How Do Hotel Loyalty Program Status Matches and Challenges Work?
Marriott Bonvoy
Hilton Honors
World of Hyatt
IHG One Rewards
Wyndham Rewards
Radisson Rewards Americas
Choice Privileges
Best Western Rewards
Sonesta Travel Pass
Status Challenge Considerations
Final Thoughts

Table of Contents

How Do Hotel Loyalty Program Status Matches and Challenges Work?
Marriott Bonvoy
Hilton Honors
World of Hyatt
IHG One Rewards
Wyndham Rewards
Radisson Rewards Americas
Choice Privileges
Best Western Rewards
Sonesta Travel Pass
Status Challenge Considerations
Final Thoughts

How Do Hotel Loyalty Program Status Matches and Challenges Work?

Hotel rewards programs want to attract good customers with proven loyalty and 1 strategy for doing so is to offer a match of your current earned hotel elite status to the corresponding elite status in their hotel loyalty program.

This match gives a proven loyal customer time to try out the new brand, while having similar elite status, and with hopes that the guest will continue to stay at that brand in the future. It’s worth noting that normally only earned (versus granted) elite status will be matched, but there are exceptions where status held by having a co-branded hotel credit card has been matched.

A status match may be good for 90 days, even longer, and may include requirements for a specified number of stays or nights within that time period to extend your status. This additional stay requirement is commonly called a “challenge.” If you meet the challenge stay requirements, the extended status could last a set number of additional months, the remainder of the current calendar year, or even the entire subsequent calendar year, depending on the structure of the match/challenge.

Note that usually only paid stays count towards a challenge and stays must be booked directly through the hotel reservation website versus a third party, such as an online travel agency.

Most major hotel loyalty programs offer matches, challenges, or a combination of the 2, but offers can be withdrawn at any time. Also, not all hotel loyalty programs publish the requirements for a status match or challenge. In these cases, different customers may receive different offers.

Let’s look at some of the most popular hotel loyalty program status matches and challenges.

Marriott Bonvoy

The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort Puerto Rico Pool — With nearly 7,000 properties worldwide, there’s a Marriott property appropriate for every traveler. The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico. Image Credit: Marriott

The Status Match and Challenge

While Marriott Bonvoy doesn’t offer a status match to other hotel loyalty program elite status, it does have a RewardsPlus partnership program with United Airlines and matches United Premier Gold members (and higher) to Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status. You can register here.

For others who want a fast track to Marriott Bonvoy hotel program elite status, the program does offer a status challenge.

You do not need to have a corresponding status to participate, as even a Marriott Bonvoy member can elect to do the challenge. For example, if you are a Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite member, you can choose to do a challenge for higher Platinum Elite status.

Enroll in the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program before registering for the challenge. Have your account number ready, call Marriott Bonvoy at 800-627-7468, and ask for a Marriott Bonvoy representative (if you are not immediately directed to one). You must select one of the challenge levels, Gold or Platinum, at the time of registration.

You will have the remainder of the current month plus 3 additional months to complete the challenge. For example, if you call in on March 15, you would have the remainder of March plus all of April, May, and June to complete the stays you need to extend status.

Gold Challenge — stay 8 paid nights
Platinum Challenge — stay 16 paid nights

A word of caution voiced by members who have completed the challenge and had issues — document the challenge offer, follow up with a call back to make sure the challenge is noted in your account, and check your Marriott Bonvoy account to see if the challenge has been listed under your “promotions” (it may or may not be, but if it is you can be assured you’re registered).

You could also request a follow-up email confirming that you are enrolled in the challenge and that it states the specific terms of the challenge such as dates, number of nights needed, and level of elite status requested.

Since Marriott Bonvoy does not publish a status match or challenge, this information was gathered from calling Marriott Bonvoy directly, from Marriott Insider bulletin boards, and sites such as StatusMatcher and FlyerTalk.

The Benefits of Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status

All elite members receive complimentary Wi-Fi, a dedicated reservation line, and the fifth night free when booking 5 consecutive award nights.

Elite Level	Nights Required Each Calendar Year	Key Benefits
Silver	10	10% bonus points on stays, late check-out when available
Gold	25	25% bonus points on stays, 2 p.m. late check-out, enhanced room upgrades, welcome points
Platinum	50	50% bonus points on stays, executive lounge access, complimentary breakfast, 4 p.m. late check-out, early check-in, enhanced room upgrades including suites, annual choice benefit
Titanium	75	75% bonus points on stays, all Platinum benefits, an additional choice benefit, United Airlines Silver Premier status, guaranteed room availability
Ambassador	100 plus $20,000 in qualified spending at Marriott	All Titanium benefits plus an assigned personal ambassador and “Your 24” with the ability to pick check-in/check-out times

This is just an overview of the key benefits of Marriott Bonvoy elite status. We’ve written extensively for you on how to earn lots of Marriott Bonvoy points, and the best way to redeem your Marriott Bonvoy points for maximum value.

The Best Credit Cards for Marriott Bonvoy Loyalists

American Express and Chase issue several Marriott-branded credit cards, each with the potential to serve a Marriott guest well. Here are just a couple of the best credit cards for Marriott loyalists.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

Why we like the card for Marriott Bonvoy loyalists:

Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status
Worldwide lounge access to over 1,300 Priority Pass locations
Free hotel night certificate each card anniversary year, worth up to 85,000 points
$100 property credit at Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis properties
6x earnings at Marriott, 3x earnings on flights booked with airlines and U.S. restaurants, 2x earnings all other purchases
25 qualifying elite night credits towards elite status
$300 annual dining credit on eligible restaurant purchases worldwide
Trip cancellation and interruption insurance

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

Why we like the card for Marriott Bonvoy loyalists:

Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status
Receive Gold Elite status after spending $35,000 on the card
Free hotel night certificate each card anniversary year, worth up to 35,000 points
Up to 17x earnings at Marriott, 2x earnings all other purchases
15 qualifying elite night credits towards elite status, plus earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.

Both cards come with complimentary premium Wi-Fi at Marriott properties, no foreign transaction fees, purchase protection, and travel benefits such as secondary car rental insurance, trip delay, and baggage delay.

Bottom Line: Marriott Bonvoy offers a status challenge versus a status match. You can participate in a Gold or Platinum level challenge that will extend status after staying 8 qualifying nights or 16 qualifying nights, respectively, within the 90-day challenge period.

Hilton Honors

London Hilton on Park Lane Room — Enjoy the perks of an upgraded room, complimentary breakfast, and more, with Hilton Honors elite status. London Hilton on Park Lane. Image Credit: Hilton

The Status Match and Challenge

Hilton Honors will match most current equivalent hotel elite statuses to its Gold level for an initial 90-day period. During that time period, you’ll have the option to complete a challenge.

Stay 5 nights during the 90-day challenge period and extend Gold status through March 31, 2023
Stay 9 nights during the 90-day challenge period and receive top-level Diamond status through March 31, 2023

To request that your current elite status be matched and to participate in a challenge, sign up for Hilton Honors, then complete the online status match request. You’ll need to provide your Hilton Honors membership number, proof of your current hotel elite status, and documentation of a Hilton hotel stay within the past 24 months.

The Benefits of Hilton Honors Elite Status

The benefits of Hilton Honors elite status are many. Here are just some highlights of what you can expect as a Hilton Honors elite:

Silver Status — standard free Wi-Fi, late check-out, fifth consecutive award night free, 20% bonus points on stays, elite rollover nights, no resort fees on award stays
Gold Status — all Silver benefits plus room upgrades, free breakfast, and 80% bonus points on hotel stays
Diamond Status — all previously mentioned benefits plus an upgrade to premium Wi-Fi, 100% bonus points on hotel stays, upgraded room included suites, executive lounge access, and the ability to gift status

The Best Credit Card for Hilton Honors Loyalists

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

You’ll normally find nothing higher than mid-level elite status on a hotel-branded credit card, but the Hilton Aspire card delivers much more. The card offers top-level Hilton Honors Diamond status for as long as you hold the card.

Why we like the card for Hilton Honors Loyalists:

Worldwide airport lounge access via complimentary Priority Pass Select Membership
14x earnings at Hilton
$250 Hilton Resort credit
$250 statement credit for airline incidentals
$100 property credit for a 2-night stay or more at Waldorf Astoria or Conrad

Bottom Line: Hilton Honors will grant a status match for an initial 90-day period then extend the status after completion of the challenge requirements during that time. Staying 5 qualifying nights during the period extends Gold status while staying 9 nights is required to extend Platinum status. The Hilton Aspire card offers the quickest way to top elite status, offering Diamond level status as long as you have the card.

World of Hyatt

Hyatt Regency Washington On Capitol Hill Exterior View — Status match to World of Hyatt and enjoy staying at well-located properties such as the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill in D.C. Image Credit: Hyatt

The Status Match and Challenge

While there isn’t currently a public status match or challenge available with World of Hyatt, some corporations are eligible for their employees to participate in status challenges. Check with your travel booking department to see if your company currently participates.

Hyatt also has a partnership with American Airlines. Select AAdvantage elite members may qualify for Hyatt elite challenges or status matches. You can link your accounts and get more information here.

Also worth noting is that, due to an ongoing partnership, MGM Rewards members can receive the corresponding World of Hyatt status.

The Benefits of World of Hyatt Elite Status

Whether it’s entry-level Discoverist status, mid-tier Explorist, or top-level Globalist, you’ll enjoy the perks of being a World of Hyatt elite. Here’s a quick overview of the benefits of having status with Hyatt.

Discoverist — complimentary free premium internet, free breakfast at participating Hyatt Place properties, resort fees waived on award nights, basic room upgrade, 2 p.m. check-out, early 12 p.m. check-in
Explorist — all the benefits of Discoverist status plus room upgrades to the best room available, excluding suites
Globalist — all previously mentioned benefits plus free lounge access, suite upgrades when available, Guest of Honor privileges to gift award nights to family/friends, late 4 p.m. check-out, free hotel parking on award nights

All elite members receive a dedicated reservation line, bottled water, member-only rates, dedicated check-in area, and corresponding MGM Rewards elite status.

Hot Tip: If you already have Hyatt Explorist status, check out this cool trick to status match to MGM Rewards Gold, Ceasar’s Diamond, and Wyndham Diamond.

The Best Credit Card for World of Hyatt Loyalists

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

The Hyatt Credit Card supports the World of Hyatt loyalty program nicely with free hotel nights, elite qualifying nights each year, and elevated earnings at Hyatt properties.

Why we like the card for World of Hyatt loyalists:

Free hotel night certificate at card renewal
Complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status
5 elite qualifying nights towards elite status qualification each calendar year
Earn 2 additional elite qualifying nights for each $5,000 spent on the card
9x earnings at Hyatt
2x earnings on flights, local transit, fitness/gym memberships, restaurants

Bottom Line: World of Hyatt is not offering a status match or challenge currently, but certain corporate clients may participate in a status challenge. World of Hyatt members who have MGM MGM Rewards status may receive reciprocal elite status.

IHG One Rewards

Earn IHG One Rewards points and redeem for free nights at properties throughout the world. Holiday Inn Dead Sea, Jordan. Image Credit: Holiday Inn

The Status Match and Challenge

IHG One Rewards periodically offers status matches and currently there are none available.

IHG allows you to purchase Ambassador Elite status which grants elite benefits at Intercontinental properties. Ambassador status costs $200 or you can redeem 40,000 IHG One Rewards points.

The Benefits of IHG One Rewards Elite Status

All IHG One Rewards elite members receive late check-out, special member rates, and free internet. Rewards nights also count toward elite status for all members.

Here are the additional benefits you can expect with IHG One Rewards elite status:

Silver Elite — 20% bonus points on stays
Gold Elite — 40% bonus points on stays
Platinum Elite — 60% bonus points on stays, complimentary room upgrades, elite rollover nights, guaranteed room availability
Diamond Elite — 100% bonus points on stays, free breakfast, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards 5 Star status

The Best Credit Card for IHG One Rewards Loyalists

IHG® Rewards Premier Credit Card

Spend $20,000 in a calendar year on the card and receive 10,000 bonus points
Trip cancellation/interruption insurance

To decide which IHG-branded credit card is right for you, you’ll want to read our full review. To learn how to earn lots of IHG One Rewards points and redeem them for great value, we’ve covered these topics, too.

Bottom Line: Ambassador status, good at Intercontinental properties, can be purchased for $200. IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status can be secured by having the IHG Premier card.

Wyndham Rewards

Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort — Wyndham has a diverse portfolio of properties that includes budget options, mid-tier properties, and high-end resorts. Wyndham Kona Resort, Hawaii. Image Credit: Club Wyndham

The Status Match and Challenge

Update:While Wyndham has currently suspended its status match and challenge program, we’ll still detail the previous program as we are hopeful the program will return. One exception to the suspension of Wyndham status matches is the brand’s reciprocatory relationship with the Caesars Rewards program. Top Wyndham Rewards Platinum and Diamond members may still status match to Caesars Rewards program.

If you are a member of any of the major hotel loyalty programs, Wyndham will match you to its Gold level status. You do not need to have elite status in another program to receive Wyndham Gold status.

Wyndham offers an elite status match that grants equivalent elite status for 90 days from the date of approval. To extend the status, the member must complete the required amount of stays during the 90-day period.

For the Platinum level, the required number of stays for the challenge is 7 and for Diamond, it is 14 stays. Once those stays are completed, status is extended to December 31 of the following calendar year.

Here is a sampling of what you can expect when you request a status match with Wyndham.

Hotel Loyalty Program	Status Level in Current Program	Matched to This Wyndham Status Level
Marriott Bonvoy	Silver Elite	Platinum
Marriott Bonvoy	Gold Elite, Platinum Elite, Titanium Elite, Ambassador Elite	Diamond
Hilton Honors	Silver	Platinum
Hilton Honors	Gold, Diamond	Diamond
World of Hyatt	Discoverist	Platinum
World of Hyatt	Explorist, Globalist	Diamond
IHG One Rewards	Gold	Platinum
IHG One Rewards	Platinum Elite, Diamond Elite	Diamond
Radisson Rewards Americas	Silver	Platinum
Radisson Rewards Americas	Gold, Platinum	Diamond
Choice Privileges	Gold, Platinum	Platinum
Choice Privileges	Diamond	Diamond
Best Western	Gold, Platinum, Diamond	Platinum
Best Western	Diamond Select	Diamond

The Benefits of Wyndham Rewards Elite Status

All Wyndham Rewards members receive free Wi-Fi, rollover elite nights, go free local gift or experience discount voucher, and a minimum of 1,000 points per stay.

Benefits	Gold — 5 Nights	Platinum — 15 Nights	Diamond — 40 Nights
Preferred Room Choice	X	X	X
Late Check-Out	X	X	X
Early Check-In		X	X
Avis and Budget Car Rental Upgrades		X	X
Welcome Amenity			X
Suite Upgrades			X
Gift Gold Status			X

The Best Credit Card for Wyndham Rewards Loyalists

Wyndham Rewards® Earner+ Card

Why we like the card for Wyndham Rewards loyalists:

Welcome bonus
6x earnings for spending at Wyndham properties in addition to 10 points per dollar for staying at Wyndham, plus 5x earnings on gas
4x earnings on dining and groceries
7,500 Wyndham Rewards points at each card renewal
$75 annual fee

Barclays also issues a Wyndham Rewards Card with no annual fee. You can learn more about these 2 cards and all the ways to earn Wyndham Rewards points here.

Bottom Line: Wyndham Rewards will match members of other hotel rewards programs to its Gold status level and corresponding elite members to the same Wyndham Rewards elite level. To extend status beyond the initial 90-day match, Gold level requires 7 qualifying stays and Diamond requires 14 stays.

Radisson Rewards Americas

Radisson Hotel Egypt — Radisson has some stunning properties that offer excellent redemption value. The Radisson Blu Resort, El Quseir, Egypt. Image Credit: Radisson

The Status Match

While Radisson Rewards Americas offers a quick and easy path to matching your existing hotel status, the hotel chain limits status matches to once in a lifetime. For this reason, you’ll want to plan the timing your request for when the status is especially important to you, perhaps for an upcoming stay at a special property or an extended stay.

The program has 3 elite levels but only Silver and Gold levels are granted for status matches. Its top Platinum status is not included in the status match program and must be earned.

To request a status match, simply send an email with your Radisson Rewards Americas membership number and proof of current earned hotel elite status to [email protected]

The Benefits of Radisson Rewards Americas Elite Status

When matched to Silver level you can expect to receive:

22x Radisson Rewards Americas points per dollar spent at Radisson
Room upgrade
Early check-in/late check-out
10% discount on food and beverage.

And when matched to Gold level, you can expect the following:

25x Radisson Rewards Americas points per dollar spent at Radisson
Room upgrade
A welcome gift
15% discount on food/beverage
Early check-in/late check-out
Guaranteed room availability 72 hours before your stay

You can go on to achieve Platinum level status and receive the following:

35x Radisson Rewards Americas points per dollar spent at Radisson
Room upgrade, welcome gift, early check-in/late check-out
Complimentary breakfast
20% discount on food/beverage
Guaranteed room availability 48 hours before your stay

All Radisson Rewards Americas members receive member-only rates, the ability to book using points/cash, complimentary water during their stay, and award nights that count towards elite status qualification.

Learn more about the best ways to earn Radisson Rewards points and how to get maximum value when redeeming your points in our articles on these topics.

The Best Credit Card for Radisson Rewards Americas Loyalists

All Radisson Rewards co-branded cards have been discontinued as of April 2022.

Bottom Line: Radisson Rewards Americas will status match to its Silver and Gold levels. Matches expire at the end of the elite qualifying year unless the elite status is earned under the normal annual requirements. Radisson only matches status once in a lifetime.

Choice Privileges

clarion hotel helsinki — The Clarion Hotel Helsinki, Finland. Image Credit: Clarion

The Status Match and Challenge

Join Choice Privileges to be eligible for a status match with Choice Privileges.

Send an email to [email protected] (U.S. and Canadian members), [email protected] (for European members), or [email protected] (for Australian or New Zealand members) and include the following information.

Full name
Choice Privileges member number
Screenshot or copy of your other program’s membership card, current statement, or account status page showing status and expiration date

You can expect to be matched to Gold or Platinum Elite level.

However, if you stay 1 night at a Cambria hotel, you will be upgraded to Diamond Elite status. Just add this documentation to your request:

A copy or screenshot of your Cambria hotel folio/receipt

You can expect a response within 3-5 business days.

Status matches granted for Diamond status between January and June will provide elite status through the remainder of that calendar year. Matches to Diamond status granted June through December will receive status through the end of the following year. Guests who received a Diamond status match in the previous year are not eligible in the current year.

If you were previously matched to a status less than Diamond, you may still remain eligible for a Diamond status match with a Cambria stay.

The Benefits of Choice Privileges Elite Status

All elite members receive exclusive member rates, a dedicated elite customer service line, and express reservations/check-in.

Gold — 10% bonus points on stays
Platinum — 25% bonus points on stays, Avis Preferred Plus
Diamond — 50% bonus points on stays, Avis Preferred Plus, complimentary room upgrades

While elite status doesn’t result in a long list of benefits, if you can secure a status match to Diamond and have an upcoming stay or 2, you could benefit from extra bonus points and an upgraded room.

The Best Credit Card for Choice Privileges Loyalists

Choice Privileges® Visa Signature® Card

If you stay with Choice often, you might want to check out the Choice-branded credit card. The card does not charge an annual fee, offers a nice welcome bonus, and comes with super elevated earnings at Choice properties.

Why we like the card for Choice Privileges loyalists:

Welcome bonus worth as many as 4 free hotel nights
Complimentary Choice Privileges Gold Elite status
15x points per dollar spent at eligible Choice properties
5x earnings when purchasing Choice Privilege points or Choice gift cards
2x earnings all other purchases
8,000 bonus points after spending $10,000 in a calendar year on the card
Visa Signature benefits

For more information, check out our guides on the best ways to earn Choice Privilege points and the best ways to redeem Choice Privilege points.

Bottom Line: Choice Privileges will match you to Gold or Platinum level based on your current hotel elite status, but if you stay at a Cambria hotel just 1 night, it will match you to Diamond-level elite status.

Best Western Rewards

best western phu quoc — Best Western Rewards elite status may secure you an upgraded room at premium hotel properties such as this Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc, Vietnam. Image Credit: Best Western

The Status Match — Best Western

Best Western Rewards offers a “No Catch” status match that matches your current hotel program elite status and extends that status to the end of the program year.

Join Best Western Rewards, call 800-444-7646 if you have questions, and complete the status match request form. You’ll need to include documentation of your current hotel status. A prompt reply is promised.

The Benefits of Best Western Rewards Elite Status

Gold — 10% bonus points on stays, special member rates, late check-in/early check-out, a welcome gift or choice of points, room upgrades
Platinum — all Gold benefits, 15% bonus points on stays
Diamond — all Gold benefits, 30% bonus points on stays
Diamond Elite — all Gold benefits, 50% bonus points on stays

All Best Western Rewards elite members receive a dedicated reservation line, points that never expire, no blackout dates, and free award nights count towards elite status.

The Status Match — WorldHotels

In early 2019, Best Western acquired the luxury hotel brand WorldHotels. Although its footprint is small, just 300 properties worldwide, the acquisition serves to round out the brand with an upscale accommodations option.

The brand’s “No Catch” status match functions the same as the Best Western program in that you must first join WorldHotels Rewards, then complete a form to request the match. WorldHotels Rewards will determine the equivalent match level based on your status with the other hotel chain. Matched status is valid through January 2022.

The benefits of elite status with WorldHotels Rewards align with the same benefits as Best Western Rewards.

The Best Credit Card for Best Western Rewards Loyalists

Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard®

Why we like the card for Best Western Rewards loyalists:

Complimentary Platinum Elite status as long as you have the card
Welcome bonus worth up to 4 free hotel nights
20x points per dollar spent at Best Western (10x points for having the card + 10x points for Platinum status)
Low annual fee

Best Western also has a co-branded card that has no annual fee. The Best Western Rewards® Mastercard® earns a total of 13x points per dollar spent at Best Western properties.

Bottom Line: Best Western Rewards will match your hotel elite status until the end of the current elite program year.

Sonesta Travel Pass

Royal Sonesta New Orleans. Image Credit: Sonesta

While Sonesta sports a small footprint worldwide with less than 100 properties, the offerings are diverse and range from upscale resorts, extended-stay properties, to unique intimate accommodations.

The Status Match

A status match is simple to obtain by first joining Sonesta Travel Pass, then sending an email to [email protected] Include your Travel Pass number and a copy of your current hotel status credentials with another hotel chain, such as your membership card or statement.

Sonesta will match to the Preferred or Elite level depending on your current status with the other hotel chain.

The Benefits of Sonesta Travel Pass Loyalty Status

All Sonesta Travel Pass members receive complimentary upgraded Wi-Fi, 5% off, express check in/check out, customized room preferences, member-only offers, and assistance from a Member Champion during their stay.

Preferred — all Member benefits, plus priority reservations line, guaranteed room type (bed type), complimentary room upgrades, early check in/check out
Elite — all Preferred benefits, plus priority self-parking, discounted suite upgrades, a welcome amenity, complimentary lounge access, a $15 Snack and Sip credit, and a 15% discount on dining and amenities

The Best Credit Card for Sonesta Loyalists

Sonesta World Mastercard® Credit Card

Generous welcome bonus worth up to 6 free hotel nights
3x earnings at Sonesta (a total of 13x earnings for Travel Pass members)
2x earnings on car rental, dining, and airfare
Spend $7,500 each anniversary year and receive 30,000 bonus points
Complimentary Elite-level member status
Complimentary room upgrades
15% discount on dining and amenities
No foreign transaction fees
$75 annual fee waived the first year

Bottom Line: If you’re a Sonesta fan, have upcoming stays with the hotel chain, and have elite status with another hotel loyalty program, requesting a status match is an easy way to gain benefits that can make your stay more comfortable and also more rewarding.

Status Challenge Considerations

Before you jump in and request a challenge, be sure to investigate and learn the answers to these questions:

Can I receive written confirmation of the terms/conditions of the status match/challenge?
What are the exact start and ending dates for the challenge?
Do only paid stays count toward completing the challenge? Note that third party bookings, such as Orbitz, Hotels.com, etc., normally do not count and benefits do not normally apply when nights are not booked directly with the hotel brand.
Is my current status matched to the new brand at the beginning of any required challenge period or after I complete the challenge?
If I complete the challenge successfully, how long with my new status be extended? What date will it expire?
Would a hotel-branded credit card give me the same elite level status without having to complete a status challenge requiring a lot of paid stays?
How often does this hotel brand grant members a status match/challenge? For example, is it limited to once in a lifetime, every 3 years, or every 5 years?
Do I have a lot of stays coming up at the brand with which I am requesting the match/challenge? Is this the best timing for the challenge if I can only do it once in a lifetime, every 5 years, etc.?

Hot Tip: Some hotel loyalty elite programs have been known to match granted elite status, such as the complimentary elite status that comes with your credit card. For example, The Platinum Card® from American Express comes with Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold statuses that may be possible to match to other hotel elite programs.

Final Thoughts

A hotel loyalty program status match or challenge can be a great opportunity to try out a new hotel brand without sacrificing the benefits you’ve previously earned with your current hotel brand.

Elite status can offer such an elevated experience at your preferred brand and it’s relatively easy to secure. It can also be good to have elite status in more than 1 hotel program as a backup when a preferred hotel brand is not available at your destination.

Also, keep in mind that elite status challenges and matches are not unique to hotel loyalty programs — some airline frequent flyer programs offer the same type of elite status reciprocity. To learn more about matching your earned airline elite status with another airline, you’ll want to catch our comprehensive article on the topic.

The information regarding the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, Wyndham Rewards® Visa® Card, and Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, click here.

Featured Image Credit: Hyatt

Frequently asked questions

How do hotel program status matches work?

If you have current elite status with a hotel loyalty program, it is likely that another hotel loyalty program would match that elite status.

This allows the member to enjoy elite status with the new hotel program immediately.

Some hotel loyalty programs do not match elite status but offer an opportunity to fast track to elite status with a stay challenge. If the member completes a stated amount of stays during the required period (usually 90 days), status can be granted and extended for a greater period of time.

Hotel loyalty programs can offer just a status match, a challenge, or a combination of the 2.

It’s also worth noting that matches and challenges can change or be discontinued at any time.

Which hotel programs offer a status match?

Most major hotel programs offer either a status match, a status challenge, or a combination of the 2. Even if a hotel program does not publicly advertise a match or challenge, it is always worth calling or sending an email if you have plans to stay at a specific brand for an extended period of time.

It is possible a hotel program may not have a published status match/challenge program but grants one on a case to case basis.

How often can you do a hotel status match?

Status matches and challenges differ by hotel loyalty program. Some only grant these once in a lifetime. Others allow you to do a challenge repeatedly — once every other year, once every 3 years, or even once every 5 years.

It’s good to ask up front how often the hotel loyalty program allows you to be granted a match or participate in a challenge and plan your requests appropriately.

Is hotel elite status worth it?

The answer is yes, if you stay frequently at a particular brand. Even entry-level elite status can result in free internet, special member rates, a dedicated reservation line, free water, and the ability to use cash combined with points for a free night stay.

Elevated elite status can deliver benefits such as room upgrades, executive lounge access, complimentary breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, guaranteed room availability, and bonus points.

Elite status can make your stay more comfortable, save you money, and allow you to earn free hotel nights faster.

Hotel elite status is also not difficult to achieve. You can secure elite status with status matches, challenges, or with a hotel-branded credit card. Hotel loyalty programs can also grant entry-level elite status when you stay as little as 4 stays (Hilton) in a calendar year.

Do award hotel nights count toward elite status?

Each of the hotel loyalty programs we have covered in this article allow reward nights booked with points to count toward elite status qualification.

If you’re completing a status match/challenge, however, reward nights normally do not count towards that match/challenge.

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About Christine Krzyszton

Christine was born in Northern Michigan but spent most of her career operating her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services offices throughout the state. Her previous experience involved building and writing business plans in the mergers and acquisitions sector in New York, as well as staffing in the insurance and financial technology software field. Her successful insurance and financial services career has been an excellent foundation from which to source her knowledge for many of Upgraded Points’ travel insurance articles.

Disclaimer: Any comments listed below are not from the bank advertiser, nor have they been reviewed or approved by them. No responsibility will be taken by the bank advertiser for these comments.

14 comments

DrHunter May 30, 2021
If radisson has split its reward program, then are status matches offered in the international radission rewards as well? Would you be able to use either one in America or other parts of the world?
Reply
- Jarrod West June 6, 2021
  Hi DrHunter,
  Yes, elite status from either Radisson program should be recognized in the other.
  Reply
Bill June 14, 2021
When do they usually open the online Wyndham status match?
Reply
- Jarrod West June 14, 2021
  Hi Bill,
  There is not an exact timeframe perse, but they usually do so a few times each year.
  Reply
JC January 6, 2022
I have the complimentary status with hilton and marriott that came with my platinum card. I don’t guess there’s really much of anything to status match to at the moment with wyndham not currently accepting? My main goal was to match to caesars or mlife with the wyndham status… Don’t guess there’s any other work around?
Reply
Ing July 23, 2022
Just called Marriott 7/23/22 and they said they do not have any status matches nor status challenges.
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton July 24, 2022
  Hi Ing. There are several reports of status matches and challenges with Marriott this year. Perhaps make another call to see if you receive a different answer. https://statusmatcher.com/company/marriott-hotels
  Reply
Mike July 29, 2022
Poll question about hotel status which has been bugging me: Do you or do you not inform the front desk about your status and ask for your benefits?
I normally feel awkward saying I’m a (elite status) do you have an upgrade, etc. But I’m also hardly recognized or thanked for having status which tends to make me think they don’t know my status nor have they ever considered me for any status perks.
I sold my home and I have been living in hotels for the past 3.5 months traveling across and around the USA, normally for 1-3 nights before moving to the next. I have stayed at the 5-2 star level of every brand using cash, points, and or Certs.
Currently, my statuses are:
IHG, Diamond, recognized my status upon checking in about 40% of the time. I’m not given upgrades but 4 out of 10 check-ins it’s nice to hear thank you for being (elite status), so I feel they considered status.
Hilton, Diamond, recognized about 20% of the time and that 2 out of 10 check-ins I am offered a bottle of water.
Marriott, I’m Gold (currently 3 nights away from Plat status), with my past 37 (+10 for AMEX card) night stays I have only been thanked 2 times for being
Gold upon check-in.
Besides the few bottles of water I received from a few Hilton check-ins I have never once been offered an upgraded room or anything despite my “elite” status.
Then I started to think, must I announce my status and ask for my perks upgrade or welcome snack? Last week I checked in to a Hilton and as always they said nothing about my Diamond status, no water nothing. Then as I was walking away another guest was checking in behind me and loudly announced “I’m checking in, I’m a Diamond member do you have any upgrades for me?” Immediately the desk clerk thanked her for the status and handed her a Hilton bag with I assumed water, maybe a snack inside. (Which I did not get).
So is it normal and must I inform my status upon every check-in? I always feel more humble and it’s a thing they should know by my profile upon check-in and offer me a welcome gift and or upgrade if available. My spouse feels the opposite as I earned my status she feels I must ask directly if they have an available upgrade.
Basically, all I get for my status is the extra point earning bonus (automated) which is offered at the different levels.
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton July 29, 2022
  Hi Mike. We’ll let our readers join in here but personally, if I did not receive any recognition for my status, no upgraded room, or any of the other associated benefits, I would ask. You could just say, for example, “Does the system show my (Diamond or whatever) status and are those benefits available tonight?”
  Reply
Jeffery Hill September 13, 2022
Every time I ask for upgrades with Marriott (Gold Status with Amex Plat) they tell me they don’t have anymore rooms available despite sometimes having only a few cars in the parking lot.
Reply
- Katie Seemann September 13, 2022
  Hi Jeffery,
  That can definitely be frustrating! I hope you get lucky with a great upgrade soon. Happy travels.
  Reply
Dave Fordham January 9, 2023
I have Bonvoy Platinum, and I’d estimate about 50/50 chance of them saying “thanks” at check-in. I remember free bottle of water when at IHG with Platinum level, but nothing ever from Marriott. I also do not want to “announce it” or ask for it.
Reply
ling January 16, 2023
Is there any status match by a hotel branch to an airline program?
Reply
- Jarrod West January 16, 2023
  Hi Ling,
  There is a status match challenge for those with World of Hyatt and American Airlines. Since it is a challenge, the status you receive with AA is tempary and you have to reach certain qualifies to extend that status.
  Reply

How Do Hotel Loyalty Program Status Matches and Challenges Work?

Marriott Bonvoy

The Status Match and Challenge

The Benefits of Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status

The Best Credit Cards for Marriott Bonvoy Loyalists

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

Why we like the card for Marriott Bonvoy loyalists:

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

Why we like the card for Marriott Bonvoy loyalists:

Hilton Honors

The Status Match and Challenge

The Benefits of Hilton Honors Elite Status

The Best Credit Card for Hilton Honors Loyalists

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Why we like the card for Hilton Honors Loyalists:

World of Hyatt

The Status Match and Challenge

The Benefits of World of Hyatt Elite Status

The Best Credit Card for World of Hyatt Loyalists

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

Why we like the card for World of Hyatt loyalists:

IHG One Rewards

The Status Match and Challenge

The Benefits of IHG One Rewards Elite Status

The Best Credit Card for IHG One Rewards Loyalists

IHG® Rewards Premier Credit Card

Wyndham Rewards

The Status Match and Challenge

The Benefits of Wyndham Rewards Elite Status

The Best Credit Card for Wyndham Rewards Loyalists

Wyndham Rewards® Earner+ Card

Why we like the card for Wyndham Rewards loyalists:

Radisson Rewards Americas

The Status Match

The Benefits of Radisson Rewards Americas Elite Status

The Best Credit Card for Radisson Rewards Americas Loyalists

Choice Privileges

The Status Match and Challenge

The Benefits of Choice Privileges Elite Status

The Best Credit Card for Choice Privileges Loyalists

Choice Privileges® Visa Signature® Card

Why we like the card for Choice Privileges loyalists:

Best Western Rewards

The Status Match — Best Western

The Benefits of Best Western Rewards Elite Status

The Status Match — WorldHotels

The Best Credit Card for Best Western Rewards Loyalists

Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard®

Why we like the card for Best Western Rewards loyalists:

Sonesta Travel Pass

The Status Match

The Benefits of Sonesta Travel Pass Loyalty Status

The Best Credit Card for Sonesta Loyalists

Sonesta World Mastercard® Credit Card

Status Challenge Considerations

Final Thoughts

Frequently asked questions

How do hotel program status matches work?

Which hotel programs offer a status match?

How often can you do a hotel status match?

Is hotel elite status worth it?

Do award hotel nights count toward elite status?

About Christine Krzyszton

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