How to Get Mileage Credit On Partner Airlines

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How to Get Mileage Credit On Partner Airlines

Though there's no way to guarantee that you'll always get the mileage credit you've earned, taking the following steps will greatly increase the chances you'll get your miles.

1. Confirm the frequent-flier number. When booking a flight, make sure the correct frequent-flier number is entered in the reservation. If an online booking site doesn't allow you to enter a partner airline's account, call the airline you're flying and ask it to enter it.

2. Check your name. Make sure the name on your ticket is exactly the same as the name on the frequent-flier account. If the names don't match, the miles won't be credited.

3. Check your boarding pass. When you check in, make sure your frequent-flier number is on your boarding pass. This is especially important if you stand by for a flight. The frequent-flier number may not appear on the new itinerary if you don't ask the gate agent to add it.

4. Save your boarding passes and tickets. If the miles are not credited you'll likely need to send boarding passes (or copies) to the airline's customer service department. Some airlines also require a copy of the ticket or e-ticket receipt, so save all of your documents. If you've lost the receipt for a ticket you bought online, you may be able to print out a copy from the site where the ticket was purchased. (Note: If you hang your jacket during your flight, attendants often place your boarding pass on the hanger for identification -- be sure to get it back.)

5. Check your account. Miles should be posted in a few weeks, although Delta says it can take up to 90 days. If you notice that the miles haven't been posted, or that points for some flight segments have been posted while others haven't, call the airline and ask what you need to do to get full credit. Sometimes issues can be resolved on the phone; more often you'll need to send in your itinerary (with ticket number) and boarding passes.

6. Be persistent. Sometimes it takes repeated efforts to get proper mileage credit. Is it worth it? It depends on how many miles are at stake and how close you are to elite status. If you're close and the miles can make a difference in your status or your ability to nab a free trip, it's probably worth the effort.

-- Michael Shapiro