Apply for the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card is a solid choice for travelers looking to earn rewards on their everyday spending without the burden of an annual fee.

This card is part of the Marriott Bonvoy rewards program, which provides a wide range of benefits for those who frequently stay at Marriott hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone who enjoys the occasional getaway, this card allows you to accumulate points that can be redeemed for stays at Marriott properties, flights, car rentals, and more.

Let’s take a closer look at the features, advantages, disadvantages, and additional information that makes the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card a valuable tool for those looking to maximize travel rewards.

Detailed Overview of the Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card is designed for individuals who want to earn points on their purchases, particularly if they are loyal to Marriott’s extensive hotel network.

While it’s a no-frills option compared to other premium travel cards, it provides excellent value for those who are just getting started with travel rewards and don’t want to pay an annual fee.

This card offers a solid combination of benefits for both occasional travelers and frequent guests at Marriott properties.

Key Features at a Glance:

• Annual Fee: $0.
• Rewards Rate:
  • 3x points on Marriott Bonvoy hotel purchases.
  • 2x points on travel purchases (including airfare, taxis, and public transportation).
  • 1x point on all other purchases.
• Sign-Up Bonus: 30,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Introductory APR: 0% on purchases for the first 12 months.
• Additional Benefits: 15 elite night credits annually to help you achieve Marriott Bonvoy elite status and travel benefits like free Wi-Fi and room upgrades.

Why the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card is a Great Choice

1. Earning Points on Marriott Purchases

If you frequently stay at Marriott hotels, this card is designed to give you 3x points for every dollar spent at Marriott properties. With more than 7,000 hotels in over 130 countries, the possibilities for earning rewards are vast. Whether you’re booking a stay at a luxurious resort or a budget-friendly hotel, the points can add up quickly.

2. 2x Points on Travel Purchases

In addition to Marriott hotel stays, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card offers 2x points on travel purchases, which includes airfare, taxis, and other modes of transportation. This makes it a great card for people who travel frequently, whether for business or leisure.

3. No Annual Fee

Unlike many travel credit cards that charge annual fees, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card has no annual fee, which makes it an attractive option for those looking to earn rewards without any ongoing costs. This feature is especially beneficial for people who want to earn points for their travel-related purchases but don’t want to commit to paying a yearly fee.

How to Apply for the Card?

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Research and Compare

Start by visiting the official Marriott Bonvoy or the issuing bank’s website to gather detailed information about the card’s benefits, terms, and conditions.

Compare it with other travel rewards cards to ensure it aligns with your financial and travel goals.

Step 2: Access the Application Page

Navigate to the dedicated application page for the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card.

This page typically provides an overview of the card features along with an “Apply Now” button.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

Click the “Apply Now” button to access the online application form. You will be required to fill in details such as:

• Personal Information: Full name, residential address, date of birth, and Social Security Number or ITIN.

• Financial Details: Your annual income, employment status, and other relevant financial data.

• Contact Information: A valid phone number and email address to receive updates on your application status.

Take your time to review your application for accuracy before submitting it.

Step 4: Undergo the Credit Evaluation Process

After submission, the card issuer will conduct a credit evaluation, which may include a hard inquiry on your credit report.

This evaluation is designed to determine your eligibility and may temporarily impact your credit score.

Approval decisions can be communicated within minutes or take several days, depending on your credit profile.

Step 5: Card Activation and Getting Started

If approved, you will receive your Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card by mail along with instructions on how to activate it.

Once activated, start using the card responsibly to earn points and improve your credit standing while enjoying Marriott’s travel rewards.

Additional Benefits

1. Travel Insurance

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card comes with several travel protections, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance. If your trip is interrupted or canceled for an eligible reason, you may be reimbursed for non-refundable travel expenses.

2. Purchase Protection

If an item you purchase with this card is damaged or stolen within 120 days of purchase, you may be eligible for a refund through purchase protection. This feature adds an extra layer of security for everyday purchases.

3. Access to Marriott Bonvoy Perks

Cardholders can take advantage of the benefits offered by the Marriott Bonvoy program, such as free Wi-Fi during hotel stays, room upgrades, and early check-in/late checkout (subject to availability). The program also includes access to exclusive deals and discounts, as well as special rates for hotel stays.

4. Travel Assistance Services

In case of emergencies, cardholders have access to travel assistance services. This includes assistance with lost baggage, emergency cash transfer, and medical emergencies while traveling.

5. Contactless Payments

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card supports contactless payments, allowing for quick and secure transactions at participating locations.

Drawbacks to Consider

1. Limited Rewards Categories

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card offers a higher rewards rate for Marriott purchases and travel-related expenses, but it doesn’t provide extra points in other categories such as dining or groceries. If your spending mainly falls outside of travel and hotel stays, this card may not maximize your rewards potential as effectively as some other cards.

2. High Redemption Threshold for Premium Properties

While you can redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for stays at a wide range of properties, some higher-end hotels require a large number of points for just one night’s stay. This can make it harder to get free nights at luxury hotels unless you accumulate a significant amount of points over time.

3. Foreign Transaction Fees

The card has a 2.7% foreign transaction fee, which may make it less ideal for international travelers. Those who frequently travel abroad may prefer a card with no foreign transaction fees to save on extra costs.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:

1. Credit Score: A good to excellent credit score (typically 670 or higher) is recommended for approval.
2. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for this card.
3. Income: You will need to provide proof of income, as the card issuer will evaluate your ability to repay credit.
4. U.S. Citizenship: You need to be a U.S. resident with a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the benefits of the 15 elite night credits?

The 15 elite night credits you receive each year help you achieve higher Marriott Bonvoy elite status. This status can grant benefits like room upgrades, priority check-in, and access to exclusive lounges.

2. How many points do I need for a free night at a Marriott hotel?

The number of Marriott Bonvoy points required for a free night depends on the hotel’s category and the location. Lower-tier hotels might require fewer points, while premium hotels may require more.

3. Is there a foreign transaction fee with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card?

Yes, the card has a 2.7% foreign transaction fee, which could make it less appealing for international travelers.

4. How can I redeem my Marriott Bonvoy points?

You can redeem points for hotel stays, flights, car rentals, and even experiences through Marriott’s rewards program.

The points can also be transferred to airline partners for flight bookings.