What Happens to Loyalty Points after Death in the UK?

Last reviewed: 24 May 2026 by the MP Estate Planning editorial team. Jurisdiction: England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland have different probate and intestacy rules; the IHT thresholds are UK-wide.

As we accumulate rewards in various loyalty programs, a crucial question arises: what happens to these hard-earned points when we pass away? Programs like British Airways Executive Club, Tesco Clubcard, and Nectar Points have different policies regarding the transfer or inheritance of points.

Understanding these policies is vital for effective estate planning. We will explore the implications of these policies on consumers and their families, providing clarity on this often-overlooked aspect of estate management.

Key Takeaways

• Different loyalty programs have varying policies on transferring or inheriting points.
• Understanding these policies is crucial for effective estate planning.
• Consumers should be aware of the fate of their accumulated rewards.
• Estate planning should include considerations for loyalty points.
• Clear understanding can help prevent loss of valuable rewards.

Understanding Loyalty Points and Rewards Schemes

Understanding loyalty points is crucial for making the most out of the rewards programs that have become ubiquitous in the UK retail landscape. Loyalty points are rewards given by companies to incentivize repeat business, and they can be in various forms such as airline miles, hotel stays, or retail discounts.

These rewards programs are designed to encourage customer loyalty by offering benefits that can enhance purchasing power and provide exclusive services. The complexity of these programs can vary significantly, from simple point systems to more complex tiered rewards.

What are Loyalty Points?

Loyalty points are essentially a currency earned by customers for their engagement with a particular brand or service. They can be earned through purchases, referrals, or other interactions as defined by the loyalty program’s terms.

For instance, a customer might earn points for every pound spent at a retailer, which can later be redeemed for discounts or free products. The value of these points can be significant, and understanding how to maximize their value is key to benefiting from loyalty programs.

Types of Rewards Programs in the UK

The UK market is rich with various types of rewards programs, catering to different customer preferences and shopping habits. Some of the most prevalent types include:

• Retail Loyalty Programs: These are common in supermarkets and retail chains, offering points or discounts on future purchases.
• Airline Miles Programs: Frequent flyers can accumulate miles that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, or other travel perks.
• Hotel Loyalty Programs: Similar to airline miles, these programs reward frequent stays with free nights, room upgrades, or other benefits.

To illustrate the diversity and benefits of these programs, let’s examine a few examples:

As noted by a financial expert, “Loyalty programs can significantly impact a customer’s shopping behavior, encouraging loyalty and repeat business.” (Source: Financial Expert Commentary)

For more information on what happens to loyalty points after death, you can visit KC Trust’s blog, which provides insights into the handling of loyalty points posthumously.

Policies of Major Loyalty Programs

Loyalty programs in the UK, such as British Airways Executive Club, Tesco Clubcard, and Nectar Points, have varying policies on handling points after death. Understanding these policies is essential for members who wish to ensure that their accumulated points are handled according to their wishes after they pass away.

British Airways Executive Club

The British Airways Executive Club is one of the most popular loyalty programs in the UK. Generally, Avios points are cancelled upon the death of a member. However, there are exceptions to this rule. If the estate is being handled by a solicitor, it may be possible to transfer or redeem the points before they are cancelled. It’s essential for family members or the estate’s representatives to be aware of this policy and plan accordingly.

Tesco Clubcard

Tesco Clubcard is another widely used loyalty program in the UK. According to Tesco’s policy, Clubcard points are non-transferable and expire upon the member’s death. This means that any accumulated points are lost if not used before passing away. Members are advised to regularly redeem their points or ensure that their family members are aware of the points balance.

Nectar Points

Nectar Points, a popular loyalty program across various UK retailers, has a different approach. Nectar Points are also non-transferable, and the program’s terms state that points are forfeited upon the member’s death. However, Nectar allows members to designate a beneficiary to collect rewards, which can be a useful feature for those looking to ensure their points are used.

Understanding the specific policies of these major loyalty programs can help members plan for the future and ensure that their loyalty points are handled in a way that aligns with their wishes. Whether it’s through transferring points, redeeming rewards, or simply being aware of the program’s terms, being informed is key.

Transferability of Loyalty Points

Families often wonder if they can inherit or transfer loyalty points from deceased relatives. The transferability of loyalty points is a critical aspect of estate planning, and understanding how different loyalty programs handle transfers is essential for families.

Can Points Be Transferred to Family Members?

Different loyalty programs have varying policies regarding the transfer of points to family members or beneficiaries. For instance, some airline loyalty programs allow the transfer of miles to family members, albeit often with certain restrictions and fees. We should check the specific terms and conditions of each loyalty program to determine their policies.

Some programs, like the British Airways Executive Club, permit the transfer of Avios to family members or friends, but this comes with a fee. On the other hand, programs like Tesco Clubcard are more restrictive and generally do not allow the transfer of points after a customer’s death.

Restrictions on Transfers

Even when loyalty programs allow transfers, there are often significant restrictions. These can include:

• Fees associated with transferring points
• Minimum and maximum transfer amounts
• Requirements for the recipient to be a member of the same loyalty program
• Limitations on who can receive transferred points

Understanding these restrictions is crucial for effective estate planning. Families should review the terms and conditions of loyalty programs to know their options and plan accordingly.

It’s also worth noting that some loyalty programs may allow combining points from multiple accounts into one, which can be beneficial for families looking to consolidate rewards.

Claiming Loyalty Points Posthumously

The process of claiming loyalty points posthumously involves several steps and requires specific documentation. When a customer passes away, their loyalty points don’t necessarily expire; however, accessing them can be challenging without the right information.

How to Claim Points After a Customer’s Passing

To claim loyalty points after a customer’s passing, the legal representative or executor of the estate typically needs to contact the loyalty program directly. For instance, American Express requires a legal representative to get in touch with them to redeem points. Similarly, British Airways may transfer Avios if approached by a solicitor with the necessary documentation.

The steps to claim these points can vary significantly between different loyalty programs. It’s essential to review the terms and conditions of each program to understand their specific requirements.

Necessary Documentation Required

The necessary documentation typically includes a death certificate and proof of the legal representative’s authority, such as a grant of probate. Some loyalty programs may have additional requirements, so it’s crucial to check with each program directly.

• A death certificate
• Grant of probate or letters of administration
• Identification documents (e.g., passport, driver’s license)

By understanding the process and gathering the required documentation, families can ensure that they can claim the loyalty points that are rightfully theirs.

Legal Considerations for Loyalty Points

Loyalty programs have specific terms that dictate what happens to accumulated points upon a customer’s death. Understanding these terms is crucial for both loyalty program members and their families.

We often encounter questions about the legal status of loyalty points and how they are treated in the context of inheritance. The treatment of loyalty points can vary significantly depending on the program’s terms and conditions.

Are Loyalty Points Considered Assets?

Loyalty points are generally considered benefits granted under specific terms and conditions rather than traditional assets. However, their value can be significant, and understanding their legal treatment is crucial for estate planning.

Some key points to consider:

• Loyalty points are typically non-transferable and non-refundable.
• Their value is often tied to specific rewards or services.
• Programs may have varying policies regarding the treatment of points after a member’s death.

As noted by industry experts, “The legal status of loyalty points is complex and can have significant implications for estate planning and inheritance.”

“The treatment of loyalty points upon death is a critical consideration for individuals with substantial balances. It’s essential to understand the program’s terms to avoid loss of value.”

Implications for Inheritance

The implications of loyalty points for inheritance can be substantial. If not properly managed, these points can become valueless upon the death of the account holder.

To manage loyalty points effectively in the context of inheritance, consider the following strategies:

1. Review the terms and conditions of each loyalty program.
2. Understand the process for claiming or transferring points after death.
3. Keep records of loyalty program memberships and balances.

By understanding the legal considerations surrounding loyalty points, individuals can better plan for the future and ensure that their accumulated points are handled according to their wishes.

Impact of Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions of loyalty programs vary significantly, impacting how loyalty points are handled after a customer passes away. Understanding these guidelines is crucial for managing loyalty points effectively.

Specific Guidelines from Different Providers

Different loyalty programs have distinct rules regarding the transferability or inheritance of loyalty points. For instance, some programs like the British Airways Executive Club have specific procedures for handling the accounts of deceased members. According to their policy, the points are non-transferable except in certain circumstances where the executor of the estate can claim the points.

On the other hand, some programs may allow the transfer of points to family members or beneficiaries under certain conditions. It is essential to review the terms and conditions of each loyalty program to understand their specific guidelines.

“The terms and conditions of loyalty programs are designed to protect both the customer and the provider. Understanding these terms is vital to making the most of your loyalty points.”

Here is a comparison of the terms and conditions of some major loyalty programs in the UK:

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with the terms and conditions of a loyalty program can result in the loss of loyalty points. For example, if a program requires that points be redeemed within a certain timeframe, failing to do so may result in the forfeiture of those points.

It is also important to note that some loyalty programs may have specific requirements for claiming points after a customer’s passing. For instance, NerdWallet suggests that executors or beneficiaries should be aware of these requirements to avoid losing the deceased’s loyalty points.

By understanding the terms and conditions of loyalty programs, individuals can better manage their loyalty points and ensure that their beneficiaries can make the most of these rewards.

Frequent-Flyer Miles and Air Travel Rewards

When it comes to frequent-flyer miles, understanding the policies of major UK airlines is crucial for maximizing your rewards. Frequent-flyer miles are a significant component of many loyalty programs, and airlines like British Airways have specific policies regarding the handling of miles after death.

As we delve into the world of air travel rewards, it’s essential to consider the implications of death on these loyalty programs. “The value of frequent-flyer miles should not be underestimated,” says a leading expert in loyalty programs. “They can be a valuable asset, and understanding how to manage them is crucial for both the account holder and their family.”

Major Airlines’ Policies in the UK

Major airlines in the UK have varying policies when it comes to frequent-flyer miles after death. For instance, British Airways Executive Club allows the transfer of Avios to family members or beneficiaries, but this must be done before the account holder’s death. On the other hand, some airlines may have more restrictive policies, making it essential to understand the terms and conditions of your loyalty program.

Here are some key points to consider regarding major airlines’ policies:

• Check if the airline allows the transfer of miles to family members or beneficiaries.
• Understand the process for claiming miles after the account holder’s death.
• Review the terms and conditions to see if there are any restrictions on redeeming miles.

Strategies for Maximising Miles Before Death

To maximize your frequent-flyer miles before death, consider the following strategies:

1. Redeem miles for rewards: Use your miles to book flights, upgrades, or other rewards that benefit you or your family.
2. Transfer miles to family members: If the airline’s policy allows, transfer your miles to loved ones who can then use them.
3. Plan ahead: Regularly review your loyalty program accounts to ensure you’re making the most of your miles.

By understanding the policies of major airlines and implementing these strategies, you can ensure that your frequent-flyer miles are used to their fullest potential, even after you’re gone.

How to Avoid Loss of Loyalty Points

Preventing the loss of loyalty points requires a combination of record-keeping and family communication. To ensure that your loyalty points are utilised or passed on according to your wishes, it’s essential to have a clear plan in place.

Keeping Records and Documentation

Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of your loyalty points is crucial. This includes details of your accounts with various loyalty programs, such as British Airways Executive Club, Tesco Clubcard, and Nectar Points. We recommend keeping a record of:

• Account numbers and login details
• Current point balances
• Any pending transactions or rewards
• Terms and conditions of each loyalty program

Having this information readily available will make it easier for your next of kin to manage your loyalty points after you’re gone.

Communicating with Family Members

It’s equally important to communicate with your family members about your loyalty points. This includes informing them about the existence of your loyalty accounts, how to access them, and your wishes regarding the use or transfer of the points. We suggest:

• Discussing your loyalty points with your family and explaining their value
• Leaving a letter or document with instructions on how to manage your loyalty points
• Ensuring your family knows where to find your records and documentation

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your loyalty points are handled according to your wishes and are not lost due to a lack of information.

Effective planning and communication are key to preserving the value of your loyalty points for your next of kin.

Resources and Support for Families

Dealing with the estate of a deceased loved one can be complex, especially when it comes to loyalty points and rewards. Families may need guidance on navigating these issues to ensure they understand their options and can make informed decisions.

Helpful Contacts and Helplines

Several organisations offer support and guidance on managing loyalty schemes posthumously. For instance, the UK’s Citizens Advice Bureau provides free advice on handling deceased estates, including loyalty rewards in wills. Additionally, the UK’s Office of the Public Guardian offers guidance on managing the financial affairs of someone who has passed away.

Legal Advice on Loyalty Points and Rewards

Seeking legal advice can be crucial in understanding the implications of loyalty points and rewards on the estate. Solicitors specialising in estate planning and probate can offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of loyalty schemes and ensuring that these assets are distributed according to the deceased’s wishes.

Notifying Loyalty Schemes of a Bereavement and Redeeming Points

One of the more overlooked administrative tasks following a death in England and Wales is contacting loyalty scheme providers to either redeem, transfer, or formally close the deceased’s accounts. Acting promptly typically matters more than many families realise — particularly where points carry meaningful monetary value or where inactivity policies could cause a balance to expire.

Notifying Nectar and Sainsbury’s of a Death

When a Nectar member dies, the account does not automatically close or transfer. In most cases, the executor or next of kin will need to contact Nectar directly. The primary route is through the Nectar customer service team, reachable via the contact options listed on the Sainsbury’s and Nectar websites. There is no dedicated bereavement line at the time of writing, so contact is generally made through the standard customer services channel, with the caller clearly identifying themselves as an executor or administrator of the estate.

Once contact is made, you will typically be asked to confirm the deceased’s account details and provide supporting documentation. Sainsbury’s may allow any remaining Nectar points to be redeemed against a final in-store or online purchase, though this is handled on a case-by-case basis and is subject to their prevailing terms and conditions. Nectar points are worth approximately 0.5p each when redeemed in Sainsbury’s, so a balance of, say, 10,000 points represents around £50 — a sum worth pursuing through the estate administration process.

Cancelling or Transferring a British Airways Executive Club Account

Handling Avios points following a bereavement requires particular urgency. British Airways Executive Club terms state that Avios points are non-transferable on death unless the member had set up an Avios household account prior to their death. This is a point many families discover only after the member has died, by which time it may be too late to restructure the account.

Executors should contact the British Airways Executive Club bereavement team as soon as practicable. BA does operate a dedicated process for deceased members, and in our experience, providing the required documentation promptly gives families the best chance of securing any remaining value. Where a household account was in place, points accrued under that arrangement may be accessible to surviving household members, though the precise outcome will depend on BA’s current policy at the time of the claim.

Critically, Avios points expire after 36 months of account inactivity. If an executor delays notifying BA, the account may go dormant and the points balance could be lost entirely. This makes the Executive Club one of the higher-priority loyalty accounts to address during estate administration, particularly where the deceased was a frequent traveller with a substantial balance.

Documentation Typically Required by Loyalty Scheme Providers

Most loyalty scheme providers will request a combination of the following before releasing, redeeming, or closing an account on behalf of a deceased member:

• A certified copy of the death certificate — this is the standard starting point for almost all bereavement notifications
• Proof of the executor’s authority — this may be a copy of the grant of probate or, where the estate is being administered without a grant, letters of administration
• Proof of the executor’s identity — typically a passport or driving licence
• The deceased’s account details — loyalty card number, registered email address, or membership number where known

Where the estate does not require a formal grant of probate — for example, where the estate is small and assets pass outside of it — providers may accept a statutory declaration or a signed letter of authority from the next of kin, though this varies by provider. For further guidance on when probate is required, the GOV.UK probate guidance sets out the general position for England and Wales.

Our team would generally recommend that executors compile a bereavement documentation pack early in the administration process, so that the same paperwork can be submitted to multiple providers without delay.

Common Questions About Loyalty Points and Bereavement

What happens to reward points when someone dies?

This depends almost entirely on the terms and conditions of the individual loyalty scheme. In most cases, reward points are treated as a non-transferable benefit rather than a tangible asset, which means they may lapse on the death of the account holder unless the scheme has a specific bereavement policy. Some providers will allow points to be redeemed by the estate before the account is closed; others will simply cancel the balance. There is no universal legal right in England and Wales for a deceased member’s loyalty points to pass to their estate or beneficiaries — the scheme’s own terms govern the position entirely.

What do you do with a Nectar card when someone dies?

You should contact Nectar customer services as soon as reasonably practicable after the death, identify yourself as the executor or administrator, and ask what options are available for the remaining balance. Nectar points are worth approximately 0.5p each in Sainsbury’s, so even a modest balance may be worth redeeming before the account is closed. You will generally need to provide a copy of the death certificate and evidence of your authority to act on behalf of the estate.

Can you have a family Nectar card?

Nectar does offer a family or household sharing feature that allows multiple people to collect points under a linked arrangement. If this was set up before the member’s death, surviving household members may continue to hold and use their own linked accounts. However, the deceased’s individual account and any points held solely within it would still need to be dealt with through the bereavement process described above. Setting up household or family sharing arrangements before death occurs is one practical step that can be included in a wider estate plan or Letter of Wishes, and our team can help families think through this as part of a broader planning conversation.

How do I cancel my BA flight due to bereavement?

British Airways has a bereavement policy that may allow unused flights to be refunded or the value transferred to a future booking, though this is separate from the question of what happens to the deceased’s Executive Club account and Avios balance. Families should contact the BA bereavement team directly, providing a copy of the death certificate. Where the deceased held a substantial Avios balance, it is worth raising both the flight cancellation and the account closure in the same communication, and acting quickly given that Avios points expire after 36 months of account inactivity — a timeline that can pass faster than expected during a lengthy estate administration.

Should loyalty point balances be included in estate planning?

In our view, high-value loyalty balances — particularly Avios, which can represent hundreds or even thousands of pounds of travel value — are worth considering as part of a wider estate plan. Practically, this might mean recording account login details and balances in a secure document accessible to your executor, setting up an Avios household account or Nectar family sharing arrangement while you are alive, and including a note in your Letter of Wishes indicating how you would like points to be used or redeemed. While loyalty points are generally outside the scope of inheritance tax calculations, they still represent real value that can easily be lost through administrative delay or inaction. Our team can help you integrate these practical considerations into a professionally prepared estate plan.