Marriott announces Uber partnership changes: The good, the bad and the totally worthless

Marriott announced changes to its partnership with Uber on Tuesday, including devaluing riders’ points-earning potential while adding new yet less-than-worthwhile perks.

As of Oct. 14, the Marriott Bonvoy points-earning threshold for Uber spending is lowered as follows:

• From 6 points per dollar spent on Uber Eats deliveries to hotels operating under Marriott brands in the U.S. (a minimum order total of $40 applies) to 1 point per dollar (with no minimum order requirements); at three brands (Residence Inn, TownePlace Suites and Element Hotels), you’ll earn 2 points per dollar spent.
• From 2 points per dollar spent on nonhotel Uber Eats deliveries and food pickups in the U.S. (a minimum order total of $40 applies) to 1 point per dollar and only for delivery
• Earning 3 points per dollar spent on premium Uber (Uber XL, SUV, Comfort and Black) rides in the U.S. will remain the same

There is also one additional earnings opportunity beginning Oct. 14. Specifically, you’ll earn 2 points per dollar spent on UberX Reserve rides.

Marriott is also offering Silver Elite status to annual Uber One members; this status tier is just one level above being a basic Marriott Bonvoy member. Silver Elite status holders get a 10% points-earning bonus on stays and eligible hotel purchases and late checkout based on availability. Those aren’t bad perks but aren’t anything to get too excited about. Remember that holding some Marriott Bonvoy credit cards gives you Gold Elite or even Platinum Elite status.

Related: Increased Marriott Amex personal card offers: Earn up to 185,000 points, worth over $1,500

The final new feature is that customers can book an Uber Reserve ride in the Marriott Bonvoy app during their stay. To participate in this partnership, users must link their Uber and Marriott Bonvoy accounts here.

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