If you are sitting on a pile of Delta SkyMiles but do not plan to use them for flights anytime soon, you might be wondering if you can trade them for cash. While Delta does not officially allow you to cash out your SkyMiles directly, there are several indirect ways to monetize them, though you should be cautious as it could violate Delta’s terms of service. Here’s a guide on how you can sell or trade your SkyMiles for money.
Selling SkyMiles to Mileage Brokers
One of the most common ways to turn SkyMiles into cash is by selling them to mileage brokers. These brokers act as intermediaries, buying miles from individuals and selling them to others who need them for flights or upgrades. You can typically find these brokers online, and they will offer you a price based on current demand. The process generally involves transferring your miles to a buyer’s account, and once the transaction is complete, the Sell Delta SkyMiles broker will pay you in cash. However, this method is risky because it violates Delta’s terms and conditions, which state that SkyMiles cannot be sold or bartered. If caught, you could lose your miles and your SkyMiles account could be suspended or closed.
Use SkyMiles for Gift Cards
Delta allows you to redeem SkyMiles for various gift cards, which you can then use or sell. While the redemption rate is not as favorable as using the miles for flights, this is a legal way to get some value from your SkyMiles. Delta offers gift cards for popular retailers like Amazon, Starbucks, and other brands. After obtaining the gift cards, you can sell them on platforms like Raise or CardCash, where you can get close to the full value of the card in cash. Keep in mind that these platforms usually take a small commission.
Travel Rewards Exchanges
There are online forums and marketplaces where frequent flyers buy and sell miles and points. Websites like FlyerTalk have sections dedicated to people trading miles or points for cash or other items of value. Be cautious, as these exchanges are often informal and could lead to scams. However, if you find a trustworthy buyer, you can arrange a mutually beneficial trade where your miles are exchanged for cash or other valuable goods. Just be aware that this, too, could violate Delta’s terms.
Use Miles for Non-Flight Purchases
Delta allows you to use SkyMiles for things like hotel stays, car rentals, or merchandise. While this is not exactly turning miles into cash, it can save you money by covering expenses you would otherwise pay for in cash. Once again, the redemption rate may not be ideal, but it is a legitimate way to get some value without risking your account. While you cannot directly sell or cash out SkyMiles without violating Delta’s rules, there are alternative ways to monetize them. Whether through mileage brokers, gift card redemption, or creative exchanges, always weighs the risks and rewards to avoid account suspension.
