Cast Member Discount Questions

[vinotinto]

We're going to WDW right after New Year's 2014. Rates are not out yet. My cousin has offered to book a CM rate for us and since we're definitely going (DH is running the full Marathon), I really cannot wait to book. We do DxDP, so if I have dates and discount 180+ days out, it's great because I'll make 13-15 ADRs for a week's stay.

Questions:
1. Can CMs make reservations for 2014 with the discount? What happens if the actual rates are lower?

2. Can dining plan be added at a later date? Will he have to cancel and rebook the whole thing?

3. Can the reservation be pulled online and make ADRs with it and pay balance online?

I'm trying to be as mindful of his time as I can be and make it as easy as possible. I don't want to have to go back to him unless it's necessary or unless I'm inviting him to dinner!

 

[marsh0013]

Any time I've had a CM discounted room and been able to add the dining plan, I was only given the choice of quick service or the regular, never deluxe. And I asked, as I would have preferred deluxe. From what I understand, there are times of the year where you are not allowed to add a dining plan, it's not always offered. This may have changed, but just something to keep in mind. You can always check with the CM, but this has been my experience.

 

[vinotinto]

Thank you! That's really good to know! I had not thought about not being able to add DxDP. I'll have to run the numbers, but my guess is that a F&F discount with OOP dining will trump a GP discount + DxDP.

 

[kappyfamily]

Thank you! That's really good to know! I had not thought about not being able to add DxDP. I'll have to run the numbers, but my guess is that a F&F discount with OOP dining will trump a GP discount + DxDP.

We stayed 2 different times at the poly with a cm discount and were not allowed to add the dining plan.

 

[marsh0013]

Thank you! That's really good to know! I had not thought about not being able to add DxDP. I'll have to run the numbers, but my guess is that a F&F discount with OOP dining will trump a GP discount + DxDP.

If you do end up being able to add a dining plan at all, though, depending on the amount it is discounted, it could still save you money to add the regular dining plan, just have to run the numbers, as you said. As previously mentioned, while the dining plan is not always offered, when it has been, it has also upped the room discount from 40% to 50%. Good luck and have a great trip!