Delta SkyMiles can be transferred to another person, but only through specific methods and with real costs involved

You cannot simply move Delta SkyMiles from your account to someone else's account for free. Delta offers two ways to transfer miles: you can add an authorized user to your frequent flyer account (which gives them access to your miles but keeps them in your name), or you can use the Medallion Desk service to formally transfer miles to another person's account — and that second option costs money. The cost per mile transferred varies, but Delta typically charges between 1 and 2 cents per mile, meaning transferring 10,000 miles could cost $100 to $200.

If you are looking to help someone use your miles without permanently giving them away, adding them as an authorized user on your account is the only free option. If you want to permanently move miles to someone else's account, you will need to pay the transfer fee and contact Delta directly.

Key Takeaways

  • Adding an authorized user to your Delta account is free and lets another person book flights using your miles, but the miles stay in your name.
  • Permanently transferring miles to another person's account requires paying Delta a fee of roughly 1 to 2 cents per mile transferred.
  • You can only transfer miles to someone else if you have a valid reason Delta accepts, such as a family member or close relationship.
  • Authorized users can book flights for themselves or others using your miles, but they cannot transfer miles to a third person.
  • Delta does not allow mile transfers between spouses or partners automatically — you must request it and pay the fee.

Adding an Authorized User to Your Account (Free Option)

The free way to let someone else use your miles is to add them as an authorized user on your Delta SkyMiles account. An authorized user can log into your account, search for flights, and book tickets using your miles. They can book for themselves or for other people — the miles just come from your account balance.

To add an authorized user, log into your Delta SkyMiles account online, go to the account settings or profile section, and look for the option to add an authorized user. You will need to provide their name and email address. Delta will send them an invitation, and once they accept, they can access your account and miles immediately. There is no fee for this, and you can add multiple authorized users if you want.

The catch is that the miles never leave your account. If you and the authorized user later disagree or your relationship changes, the miles are still yours, and you can remove their access at any time. This works well for families or close relationships where you are comfortable sharing account access, but it is not a true transfer of ownership.

Permanently Transferring Miles to Another Person's Account

If you want to move miles permanently into someone else's Delta SkyMiles account — so they own the miles outright — you must contact Delta's Medallion Desk and request a formal transfer. This is a paid service. Delta charges based on the number of miles you transfer, typically at a rate between 1 and 2 cents per mile, though the exact rate can vary.

To start the process, call the Medallion Desk phone number listed on your Delta account or visit a Delta ticket counter in person. You will need to provide the recipient's SkyMiles account number and explain the reason for the transfer. Delta has restrictions on who you can transfer miles to — generally, you can transfer to immediate family members, spouses, or domestic partners, though policies can shift. Some transfers may be denied if Delta suspects the miles were obtained through fraud or abuse of promotions.

Once Delta approves the transfer, you will be charged the fee (calculated as miles transferred × the per-mile rate), and the miles will move to the other person's account. The transfer typically takes a few business days to complete. After the transfer, those miles are no longer yours.

What Happens When You Transfer Miles Between Accounts

When you pay to transfer miles to another person, Delta moves the exact number of miles you specify from your account to theirs. The recipient's account balance increases immediately after the transfer processes, and they can use those miles to book flights right away. There is no waiting period or restriction on how they use the miles once they receive them.

One important detail: if you transfer miles and then the recipient books a flight with them, you cannot reverse the transfer or get the miles back. Make sure you are certain about the transfer before you pay for it and confirm it with Delta.

When You Might Need to Pay for a Transfer

You will need to pay for a transfer if any of these situations apply: you want to give miles to someone outside your immediate family, you want to move miles to a spouse or partner's account, you are combining miles from multiple accounts, or you want to transfer miles as a gift to a friend. Delta's policy generally allows transfers to family members at a lower rate or sometimes free, but you should confirm the current policy by contacting the Medallion Desk, as rules change.

If you are trying to transfer miles because you are leaving the country, closing your account, or have miles expiring, contact Delta directly to discuss your situation. Some circumstances may have different options than a standard paid transfer.

Alternatives to Transferring Your Miles

If paying to transfer miles does not make sense for your situation, consider these other options. You can use your miles to book a ticket for someone else directly — just add their name when you search for flights, and the miles come from your account. This is free and works if you want to give someone a flight as a gift without transferring account ownership.

You can also add the person as an authorized user (as described above) and let them book their own flights using your miles. If you have miles expiring soon and do not want to lose them, you can donate them to certain charities that Delta partners with, though this does not benefit the specific person you had in mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer miles to my spouse for free?

No. Even though spouses are generally allowed to receive transfers, Delta charges a fee based on the number of miles transferred. The rate is typically 1 to 2 cents per mile. Some credit card issuers or elite frequent flyer members may have occasional promotions that waive the fee, so contact the Medallion Desk to ask about current offers.

What if I want to book a flight for someone else using my miles?

You can book a flight for anyone without transferring miles. When you search for flights on Delta's website, add the other person's name as the passenger, and the miles will come from your account. This is free and immediate — no transfer needed.

Can an authorized user transfer my miles to someone else?

No. An authorized user can book flights and use your miles, but they cannot transfer miles to another account or remove authorized user access. Only the account owner can make those changes.

How long does a mile transfer take?

After you pay and Delta approves the transfer, the miles typically appear in the recipient's account within a few business days. Some transfers may take up to a week depending on Delta's processing volume.

Can I get my miles back after I transfer them?

No. Once a transfer is complete and the miles appear in the other person's account, the transfer cannot be reversed. Make sure you are certain before you pay for and confirm the transfer with Delta.