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AIRLINE EXPIRATION & BOOKING RULES
Do United MileagePlus Points Expire? Policy & Rules
Everything you need to know about United MileagePlus point expiration timelines, qualifying activity rules, 4-year hard caps, cancellation windows, and fee schedules.
United MileagePlus Expiration & Cancellation Summary
Expiration Policy
Miles never expire
Cancellation Window
Free cancellations anytime before departure. A $125 fee applies for no-shows to redeposit miles.
Change & Refund Fees
$0 USD
5 Ways to Prevent United MileagePlus Points from Expiring
- Swipe a Co-Branded Card: Any purchase on an affiliated credit card generates points activity that resets your clock.
- Transfer Points: Transfer 1,000 points from a flexible credit card partner to trigger fresh account activity.
- Shop or Dine with Partners: Make a small purchase through the loyalty program's shopping or dining portal.
- Complete a Paid Stay or Flight: Even a 1-night inexpensive stay will generate qualifying activity.
- Redeem a Small Reward: Redeeming a fraction of points for a gift card or minor award also counts as activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about United MileagePlus redemption value, transfer rules, and policies:
Do United MileagePlus points expire?
Miles never expire
What counts as qualifying activity to keep United MileagePlus points active?
Qualifying activities include earning points via co-branded credit card spend, completing an eligible stay/flight, transferring points from a partner, using a dining/shopping portal, or purchasing points.
What is the cancellation policy on United MileagePlus award bookings?
Free cancellations anytime before departure. A $125 fee applies for no-shows to redeposit miles.
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