"That being said, I've never been asked to provide any proof. It's not something I just do all the time, but I've never had any problems when I have."

"Ace Hardware's IHG code (100862437) is a retail cooperative corporate code. No FlyerTalk or Reddit discussion found specifically about Ace Hardware IHG verification. Retail sector codes at IHG Holiday Inn Express properties are essentially never verified. Ace Hardware is a dealer cooperative, not a traditional employer — verification of "Ace employee" status is inherently ambiguous. IHG enforcement is tier-based: InterContinental properties might ask; Holiday Inn Express properties rarely do."

"FlyerTalk's dedicated thread "AAA card – Do hotels check?" documents: "One frequent traveler staying 1-3 hotels per week was asked for the AAA card at about 10-15% of hotels." Another reported being asked only twice in 70-80 stays. The IHG/AAA discount is officially listed on IHG's website as a membership benefit — unlike corporate codes, this is a publicly advertised member rate. AAA rates are typically only 5-15% off, reducing hotels' incentive to verify."