To encourage direct bookings, many hotel companies guarantee that you will find the lowest rates on their individual websites. When travelers book hotel stays via a third party — such as Expedia — hotel companies often have to pay a commission. To cut back on paying these fees and pad their profits, hotels are incentivized to encourage hotel guests to book rates on their own websites.

Marriott is no different, and the Marriott Best Rate Guarantee assures you that you’re paying the cheapest rate. If not, the hotel company will provide compensation.

Knowing about this program can be quite valuable, as other third-party booking sites may occasionally offer an eligible lower rate. This means you can complete a Best Rate Guarantee request and be rewarded. But you’ll want to be familiar with the ins and outs of the program to be positioned for success. We took a look and broke down everything you’ll need to know to use the Best Rate Guarantee to your advantage.

What is the Marriott Best Rate Guarantee?

The Best Rate Guarantee is a promise from Marriott that you will find the lowest rates through its own channels. These include marriott.com, its phone reservation line, the Marriott app or the hotel. Essentially, when you book directly, rather than through third-party websites, you are guaranteed to find the lowest eligible rate.

If you find a lower rate elsewhere that qualifies for the guarantee, you can submit a claim form outlining the details of where you found it. If approved, you receive a 25% discount on the room rate you are trying to book or 5,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. If staying with a Design Hotels property, the discount is only 20%, however.

Since we value Marriott points at about 0.8 cent each, the points compensation package can net you $35 in value.