If you’re considering purchasing a Disney Vacation Club membership, one of the most common questions you may have is, “How long of a commitment is it?” The answer to this question is not as straightforward as you might think. Here’s what you need to know about the length of the Disney Vacation Club commitment.
Understanding Disney Vacation Club Membership
Before we dive into the length of the commitment, let’s first review what a Disney Vacation Club membership entails. Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a vacation ownership program that allows members to enjoy accommodations at deluxe Disney resorts around the world.
Members purchase a certain number of points that they can use each year to book stays at DVC resorts. The number of points required for each stay varies depending on factors such as resort location, room type, and time of year.
The Length of a Disney Vacation Club Membership
When you purchase a DVC membership, you are committing to own your allotted points for a certain number of years. Currently, new members can choose from two options: a 50-year or a 25-year contract.
If you opt for the 50-year contract, you will own your DVC points until January 31st, 2070. If you choose the 25-year contract, your ownership will expire on January 31st, 2045.
It’s important to note that these numbers are subject to change in the future. When DVC first launched in 1991, memberships were only available with a 50-year contract. In 2006, Disney introduced the option for a shorter commitment with the 25-year contract.
Transferring or Selling Your Membership
While committing to owning DVC points for several decades may seem daunting, it’s worth noting that there are options if your circumstances change down the road.
For example, if you find that you no longer want or need your DVC membership, you can sell it to someone else. Disney has a program called the Right of First Refusal, which means that they have the option to purchase your membership back from you before you can sell it to another party. However, if they do not exercise this right, you are free to sell your membership on the open market.
Alternatively, if you pass away and have not designated a beneficiary for your DVC membership in your will or trust, your ownership will end and your points will be returned to Disney.
Conclusion
So, how long of a commitment is Disney Vacation Club? The answer is that it depends on the contract length you choose when purchasing your membership. Currently, new members can choose between a 50-year or 25-year contract.
While committing to owning DVC points for several decades may seem like a big commitment, there are options available if your circumstances change down the road. Whether it’s selling your membership or designating a beneficiary in case of unexpected events, owning a DVC membership can provide flexibility and enjoyment for years to come.