The timeshare vacation industry has recently seen an exciting development. The 2023 Interval International Buyers’ Guide has undergone an amendment, introducing some changes to the Interval International Exchange Program known as E-Plus. These changes are effective starting on February 1st, 2024, and it has the potential to both enhance and hinder the flexibility and convenience of E-Plus depending on how you use this feature.
Let’s explore what E-Plus is, what is changing and what it means for you as a timeshare owner who exchanges with Interval International (II).
What is Interval International’s E-Plus Program?
E-Plus allows members to “retrade” their original confirmation of accommodations or vacation periods up to three times, without paying additional exchange fees, and offering the freedom to modify their plans even after they’ve received their confirmation. This can be done by paying an additional $89 fee, enabling members to adapt their vacation arrangements to unexpected changes, changing preferences, or new exchange inventory that may become available after their initial exchange.
What Is Changing On February 1st?
Starting on February 1st, 2024, there are two major changes happening to E-Plus. Let’s start with the good news!
When E-Plus Can Be Added To An Exchange
The purchase of E-Plus could previously be added to an exchange within 5 days of receiving the confirmation, and now under the new changes, II members will have until 14 days after a Confirmation is issued to purchase E-Plus. This is provided that the purchase is made before the first date of occupancy.
This new change affords II members a longer window of time to purchase E-Plus and be able to retrade the exchange without paying additional exchange fees. Overall, a great change that is seems like a nice upgrade, but there is an additional change that could change whether or not you’ll use E-Plus in the future!
When E-Plus Can Be Used To Retrade An Exchange
Once purchased, E-Plus can be used to secure up to three retrades, even after a confirmation has been issued for the exchange. Under the previous rules, II members could utilize their E-Plus retrades up until the day before their confirmed check-in date. However, under the new rules, E-Plus will only permit members to retrade their stay 14 or more days ahead of the check-in date.
This implies that within a window of 14 days or less before check-in, members will no longer be able to retrade their exchange at no extra cost. This change may pose a challenge as many cancellations and itinerary alterations typically occur within this 14-day timeframe. Consequently, members may find themselves with reduced flexibility and fewer opportunities.
Restrictions & Limitations of E-Plus
There are certain restrictions to bear in mind when using E-Plus. For instance, only one purchase of E-Plus can be made for a particular Confirmation. Furthermore, E-Plus cannot be purchased for use with a ShortStay Exchange Confirmation, an Interval Options Confirmation, or for the purchase of accommodations through the Getaway Program.
Points and Retrades
For retrades where points were relinquished for the original Confirmation, if the number of points required for the retrade is equal to or less than the original number, no points will be returned to the member’s account. If more points are needed for the retrade, the member must relinquish the additional points needed. The retrade will only be confirmed once the availability of the required number of points is verified by the Home Resort.
Is E-Plus Worth It for Your Situation?
These changes will require owners to carefully reconsider the value of purchasing E-Plus for their confirmed exchange. The loss of the ability to re-exchange their stay within 14 days or less before check-in could diminish the appeal of purchasing E-Plus.
However, it’s crucial to remember that owners still retain the option to cancel and rebook their stay within this two-week timeframe by repaying the full exchange fee. Consequently, the effectiveness of E-Plus will largely depend on individual circumstances and flexibility needs.
As we navigate this new era of timeshare vacations, staying informed and understanding these changes is key to making the most of your timeshare experience, be sure to stay tuned to the A Timeshare Broker blog for all the latest timeshare news developments.
