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Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Credit Card Review 2022

Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Credit Card Review 2022

Select’s editorial team works independently to review financial products and write articles we think our readers will find useful. We earn a commission from affiliate partners on many offers, but not all offers on Select are from affiliate partners.Chase’s Aeroplan® Credit Card offers flyers a great opportunity to earn valuable Aeroplan points and elite benefits, making it a solid choice for those who enjoy international travel.While Aeroplan is the official loyalty program of Air Canada, you don’t necessarily need to be a frequent customer of the carrier to redeem this card’s rewards. In fact, you can use Aeroplan points to book domestic flights on United Airlines, among several other Star Alliance partners such as Lufthansa and Singapore Airlines.With a modest $95 annual fee, valuable spending categories, travel insurance coverage and no foreign transaction fees, it’s a decent choice if you’re in the market for a new travel rewards card.Below, Select details the Aeroplan Credit Card’s benefits, as well as how to maximize the rewards points you’ll earn by using it.Subscribe to the Select Newsletter!Our best selections in your inbox. Shopping recommendations that help upgrade your life, delivered weekly. Sign-up here.Aeroplan Credit Card reviewAeroplan® Credit Card

  • RewardsEarn 3X points for each dollar spent on grocery stores, dining at restaurants and Air Canada directly; 1X points for each dollar spent on all other purchases; 500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month (up to 1,500 points per month).
  • Welcome bonusEarn 70,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer feeEither $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Pros

  • Cardmembers and travel companions (up to eight) traveling on the same reservation will all enjoy free first checked bags on Air Canada.
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/NEXUS credit of up to $100 every four years
  • No fees on purchases made outside the U.S.

Cons

  • $95 annual fee
  • No introductory 0% APR

Welcome bonusThe Aeroplan Credit Card’s welcome bonus lets new cardholders earn 70,000 points after they spend at least $3,000 within the first three months of account membership.Since Aeroplan points are among the most valuable travel rewards, the bonus is even more lucrative. To start, by meeting the $3,000 minimum spend, you will have earned at least 73,000 Aeroplan points. A modest 1.3 cent per point valuation makes the welcome bonus worth about $949 and since the annual fee is only $95, the card provides a solid first-year value for new cardholders.Keep in mind that this card falls under Chase’s 5/24 restriction, so if you’ve been approved for more than five credit cards within the last 24 months, you’ll automatically be rejected when you apply for any new Chase cards.Benefits and perksThe Aeroplan Credit Card comes with several perks aimed at helping avid travelers score an easier journey. Cardholders have access to the following benefits:

  • Instant Aeroplan 25K Status for the rest of the calendar year and the following calendar year, giving you access to more perks including priority check-in, security and boarding; two one-time passes to Air Canada’s Maple Leaf Lounges and premium-cabin upgrades. You can also maintain the same status level by spending $15,000 during a calendar year.
  • The ability to elevate your Aeroplan status level to 35K Status or higher when you spend $50,000 during a calendar year.
  • A $100 statement credit every four years to put toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® membership.
  • You and up to eight travel companions (as long as you’re all on the same reservation) can enjoy a complimentary checked bag, up to 50 lbs, when traveling with Air Canada.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Access to 24/7 concierge services.
  • Travel insurance coverage, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, reimbursement for trip delays, baggage delay insurance, roadside assistance and an auto rental collision damage waiver, among other purchase protections.

How to earn and redeem Aeroplan pointsEarning Aeroplan pointsAs you spend with the Aeroplan Credit Card, you’ll earn:

  • 3X points per dollar at grocery stores and restaurants (takeout and certain delivery services count, too), as well as purchases made with Air Canada directly.
  • 1X points per dollar for all other purchases.
  • Up to 500 bonus points for every $2,000 spent each month, up to 1,500 bonus points per month.

Redeeming Aeroplan pointsThe more you use your card, the more you’ll accumulate Aeroplan points, which can then be redeemed for flights operated by Air Canada and its many Star Alliance airline partners, including United Airlines, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines and Air New Zealand, as well as a number of non-alliance partners such as Brazil-based Azul and United Arab Emirates-based Etihad Airways. Regardless of whether you prefer to travel domestically or internationally, you’ll have many options when it’s time to redeem your Aeroplan points.Here are a few examples of some economy and premium cabin flights you can book with Aeroplan points (note that all pricing is based on a one-way flight and does not include taxes or fees):

  • Within the United States: Economy redemptions start at 6,000 points, while business class redemptions start at 25,000 points on United Airlines.
  • U.S. to Asia: Economy flights to Seoul are available from 50,000 points in economy or from 75,000 points in business class on either United Airlines or Asiana Airlines.
  • U.S. to Europe: Economy flight redemptions to Frankfurt start at 35,000 points, while business class redemptions start at 60,000 points on Lufthansa.

To get a better idea of how many points you’ll need for your next trip, refer to Aeroplan’s award chart.Rates and feesThe card has a modest $95 annual fee, along with a 17.99% to 24.99% variable APR on purchases and balance transfers.There are no foreign transaction fees, so you can travel and spend outside the U.S. without incurring any additional fees.Card comparisonAeroplan Credit Card vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred CardChase Sapphire Preferred® Card

  • Rewards$50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3X points on dining, 2X points on all other travel purchases, and 1X points on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonusEarn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR17.49% – 24.49% variable on purchases and balance transfers
  • Balance transfer feeEither $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a top travel rewards credit card that lets you earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which can be transferred to a number of airline and hotel partners, including Aeroplan. The welcome bonus currently offers new cardholders 60,000 points after spending $4,000 within the first three months of card membership.Cardholders can earn:

  • 5X points for travel purchased via Chase Ultimate Rewards (minus hotel stays that qualify for the included $50 annual hotel credit you’ll earn when booking hotels through the portal).
  • 5X points for eligible Lyft rides through March 31, 2025.
  • 3X points for dining purchases, including takeout and select delivery services.
  • 3X points for using certain streaming and online grocery shopping services, not counting Target, Walmart or other wholesale stores.
  • 2X points for all other travel-related purchases.
  • 1X points for all other purchases.
  • Complimentary DashPass membership from DoorDash and Caviar for one year — as long as you activate the perk by Dec. 31, 2024.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card also includes many of the same benefits as the Aeroplan Card, including comprehensive travel insurance protections, no foreign transaction fees and the ability to transfer points to additional airline partner loyalty programs, all for the same $95 annual fee.For those deciding between these two cards, it really comes down to your personal travel habits and goals. If you solely enjoy flying with Air Canada, the Aeroplan Card is the clear winner as you will score automatic elite status.If you prefer to fly with other airlines as well, it might be worth having both cards, especially since you can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Aeroplan at a 1:1 ratio. Signing up for both cards (and reaching both minimum spending requirements) would end up netting you more than 130,000 points, which could then be redeemed through Aeroplan — all for a combined $190 in annual fees, providing a solid value for any traveler.Aeroplan Credit Card vs. Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit CardSouthwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card

  • RewardsEarn 3X points on Southwest® purchases, 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare; 2X points on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming; 1X points on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonusNew Offer: Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • Credit needed

The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card is a great addition, especially for flyers who are loyal to the budget airline.To get started, you can earn 50,000 points after spending $1,000 within the first three months of account opening. Cardholders also have access to the following benefits:

  • 6,000 bonus points to celebrate each account anniversary.
  • Two EarlyBird check-ins per year.
  • 1,500 tier qualifying points toward A-List and A-List Preferred status for every $10,000 you spend, with no limit as to how many you can earn.
  • 25% back for in-flight purchases.
  • No foreign transaction fees when you use the card abroad.
  • Southwest Airlines perks such as two free checked bags per person, no change fees and Rapid Rewards points that never expire.

You’ll earn 3X points per dollar for purchases made with Southwest Airlines; 2X points per dollar spent through Rapid Rewards car and hotel partners and 1X points per dollar for all other purchases. Cardholders can also earn 2X points per dollar on transit, including ride-share services and commuting, as well as select streaming, phone, internet and cable services.Best of all, the points you earn by using the Southwest Premier Credit Card count toward the Companion Pass®, which allows your chosen friend or family member to fly with you for free for up to a year (not counting taxes and fees from $5.60 each way).If you’re deciding between the two cards, consider which airline you tend to fly with the most. If you travel primarily within the U.S. and aren’t looking for premium cabin flights, the Southwest Premier Credit Card is likely a solid fit. If, on the other hand, you prefer to have a variety of carriers to redeem your rewards with, as well as the opportunity to redeem points toward business or first class flights, the Aeroplan Credit Card would be the better option.Bottom lineEditorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Select editorial staff’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party. .

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United Club℠ Infinite Credit Card Review 2022

United Club℠ Infinite Credit Card Review 2022

Select’s editorial team works independently to review financial products and write articles we think our readers will find useful. We earn a commission from affiliate partners on many offers, but not all offers on Select are from affiliate partners.The United Club℠ Infinite Card is a luxury co-branded airline credit card that lets you earn United miles on daily purchases and provides benefits such as free checked bags and United Club lounge membership. For a limited time, new cardholders can also score a solid 120,000-mile welcome bonus after spending $6,000 within the first three months of opening an account. If you’re a frequent United Airlines flyer who values access to United Club lounges than this premium travel credit card is a real contender for a place in your wallet.Below, Select breaks down the rewards, benefits and fees associated with the United Club℠ Infinite Card to decide if it’s right for your needs.Subscribe to the Select Newsletter!Our best selections in your inbox. Shopping recommendations that help upgrade your life, delivered weekly. Sign-up here.United Club℠ Infinite Card reviewUnited Club℠ Infinite Card

  • Rewards4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel and dining (including eligible delivery services) and 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonusEarn 120,000 bonus miles after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR16.49% to 23.49% variable
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • Credit needed

Pros

  • Annual fee waived the first year
  • United Club membership with access to over 45 United Club locations and participating Star Alliance™ affiliated lounges worldwide
  • Up to $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit every four years
  • No fee on purchases made outside the U.S.

Cons

  • High annual fee
  • No intro 0% APR period

Welcome bonusThe welcome bonus offered with this card delivers big value, allowing new cardholders to earn 120,000 bonus miles after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. If you value United miles at a modest 1 cent per mile you’d end up with about $1,200 worth of travel from the bonus alone, and that’s not even including the additional miles you’ll earn from purchases made to get the bonus.Compared to other travel credit cards this is one of the most lucrative welcome bonus offers available at the moment. Many are able to get more value from United miles as well, so this bonus could easily be worth way more depending on how you redeem your miles.Keep in mind that you won’t be able to get the welcome bonus if you already have another United Club card or you’ve already gotten a welcome bonus for another United Club card within the past 24 months.Benefits and perksThe United Club℠ Infinite Card is packed with plenty of features for cardholders to take advantage of. If you’re thinking of applying, it’s important to think realistically about how many of the perks you’ll actually use — and how often — to make sure it’s worth your while.Once approved for the card, you’ll be able to enjoy the following benefits:

  • Access to United Club (and participating Star Alliance™ affiliate) airport lounges worldwide
  • Complimentary first and second checked bags when you fly with United, reflecting a $35 value on the first bag and up to $45 value on second bag each way, per person (up to $320 in savings per round-trip flight)
  • Up to $100 statement credit every four years when you enroll in NEXUS, TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
  • 25% back on in-flight purchases such as Wi-Fi, food or beverages (as a statement credit)
  • 10% off United economy saver award flights within the continental U.S. and Canada
  • Because it’s a co-branded MileagePlus credit card, you’ll earn up to 4,000 Premier Qualifying Points, or PQPs, toward United elite status annually — 500 for every $12,000 you spend (up to 4,000 per calendar year)
  • Premier Access travel services such as priority check-in and expedited security, boarding and baggage handling
  • Comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation and interruption, baggage delay insurance, reimbursement for lost luggage and trip delays, travel accident insurance (including travel and emergency assistance services and emergency evacuation and transportation) and rental car coverage (collision damage waiver)
  • Visa Infinite concierge services

By taking advantage of most or all of these benefits, you can easily justify the card’s $525 annual fee. Even if you just get the card for United Club access, you’ll be saving money since a membership costs $550 to $650 when you’re purchasing directly from United.How to earn and redeem United milesEarning United MileagePlus milesWhen you spend on the card, you’ll earn: 

  • 4X MileagePlus miles per dollar on all purchases from United Airlines, including in-flight services such as Wi-Fi, food and beverages, as well as tickets for flights
  • 2X MileagePlus miles per dollar on all other travel purchases — flights, hotels, cruises, trains, rental cars, tolls, public transportation, taxis and ride-sharing services
  • 2X MileagePlus miles per dollar on dining and eligible delivery options
  • 1X MileagePlus mile per dollar spent everywhere else

Select calculated how many miles the average American could potentially earn in a year by using their United Club℠ Infinite Card. We worked with the location intelligence firm Esri, who provided us with a sample annual spending budget of $22,126.The budget includes six main categories: groceries ($5,174), gas ($2,218), dining out ($3,675), travel ($2,244), utilities ($4,862) and general purchases ($3,953). Here’s what the average consumer would earn by using this credit card:

  • Groceries: 5,174 United MileagePlus miles
  • Gas: 2,218 United MileagePlus miles
  • Dining out: 7,350 United MileagePlus miles
  • Travel: 8,976 United MileagePlus miles (assuming all travel dollars are spent with United Airlines)
  • Utilities: 4,862 United MileagePlus miles
  • General purchases: 3,953 United MileagePlus miles

With all spending considered, you could end up earning 32,533 United MileagePlus miles within the first year if you were to include the 120,000-mile welcome bonus — this type of spending would end up yielding a total of 152,533 United MileagePlus miles. Over a five-year period, cardholders could potentially earn 282,665 United MileagePlus miles, although the total amount would depend more on an individual or business’ annual spending habits.Alternatively, if you’re trying to rack up a large amounts of United MileagePlus miles in a hurry, consider earning rewards through credit cards with transferable rewards. Credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® let you earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which can be transferred directly to United MileagePlus at a 1:1 ratio. These cards are some of the best travel credit cards because you have the flexibility to redeem your rewards in a variety of ways, including transferring them to United Airlines.Redeeming United MileagePlus milesOnce you earn enough United MileagePlus miles, the fun part is redeeming them for free flights. Be aware that while the flight cost is covered by miles, you’re still responsible for paying any applicable taxes and fees. For example, if you were to redeem them for a flight within the U.S., you will still have to pay $5.60 each way in taxes and fees.To redeem MileagePlus miles, visit the United website and begin searching for your desired flight pattern. Before you hit the search button, click the “book with miles” box. From there, you will be able to look through any available flights and see how many miles it will cost for each seat class.Keep in mind that you should really aim to get more than 1 cent per point in value for your United MileagePlus miles. Anything below that wouldn’t be a great redemption, and you may be better off paying cash for the fare.Lastly, if you’re trying to book travel outside the United States, you may find yourself seeing different airlines on the United website. This is because of United’s connection to Star Alliance, an airline alliance with 26 members. As a result, you’ll be able to earn miles by flying with any one of them and can also redeem your MileagePlus for flights on any of United’s partners. If you’re searching for flights from New York to Singapore, for instance, you’ll be shown flights with Singapore Airlines, while if you’re interested in traveling to Germany, flights with SWISS Airlines or Lufthansa will appear in your search results.In short, as you continue to earn United MileagePlus miles by spending with the United Club℠ Infinite Card, it’s in your best interest to spend them as you earn them. If you were to instead hold onto a large amount of airline miles, you’d be susceptible to devaluation announcements from United Airlines or could potentially having them digitally stolen from you before you get to use them.Rates and feesCard comparisonThe United Club℠ Infinite Card is a solid option for someone who prefers luxury travel benefits when flying with United Airlines. But how does it stack up against other luxury travel credit cards? Select compared two other popular credit cards to see how it really matches up.United Club℠ Infinite Card vs. The Platinum Card® from American ExpressThe Platinum Card® from American Express is a value-packed luxury travel card that offers terrific benefits for both your travels and day-to-day necessities. You can also earn a ton of American Express Membership Rewards® points when you spend with the card.To get you started, the card comes with a large welcome bonus of 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $6,000 in your first 6 months of card membership. And as you spend on the card, you’ll earn:

  • 5X points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel (up to $500,000 per year)
  • 5X points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel
  • 1X points per dollar spent everywhere else

With the Amex Platinum you’ll also have access to a long list of benefits, including:

  • Up to $200 in annual airline fee credits and up to $200 in Uber credits per year
  • Access to the Global Lounge Collection, which has over 1,200 airport lounges in more than 130 countries. Including access to Amex Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs
  • A $200 hotel credit for prepaid properties booked via Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel
  • A $240 digital entertainment credit (up to $20 each month) when you use your card to purchase service with Peacock, Audible, SiriusXM or The New York Times
  • A $155 Walmart+ statement credit to help you cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership after you pay for monthly Walmart+ service with your card
  • A $300 annual credit with Equinox (broken up into $25 each month)
  • A $100 credit when you shop at Saks Fifth Avenue, divided into $50 for each half of the year
  • A $179 credit when you enroll in CLEAR
  • Comprehensive travel insurance and complimentary American Express concierge services

Terms apply.The Platinum Card comes with a whopping $695 annual fee (see rates and fee), which can easily be made back in value by utilizing available spending credits and taking advantage of large earnings for booking travel.When comparing the two cards, consider how often you fly and with which airline(s). If you tend to only fly with United Airlines and visit only United Club lounges, the United Club Infinite Card would be the better choice. If you’re looking for more flexibility with credit card rewards, more spending credits and a much larger list of airline lounges you can access, the Amex Platinum Card may be your best bet. If you’re primarily a Delta flyer you may be better suited with the Amex Platinum, as you get complimentary access to Delta Sky Clubs when flying on Delta.The Platinum Card® from American ExpressOn the American Express secure site

  • Rewards5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (starting January 1, 2021, this applies on up to $500,000 per calendar year), 5X points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel, 1X points on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonus100,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $6,000 within 6 months of account opening. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit Needed

United Club℠ Infinite Card vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve®The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is another premium travel credit card that offers cardholders a wide variety of benefits. Once you’re approved for the card, the current welcome bonus lets you earn 50,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards® after you spend $4,000 within the first three months of account opening.With the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, you’ll have access to valuable benefits, such as:

  • A $300 travel credit
  • 50% more in value when you redeem Ultimate Rewards points through the Chase travel portal
  • A $100 statement credit for enrolling in either TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or NEXUS
  • Access to airport lounges, including Priority Pass lounges
  • Comprehensive travel insurance, purchase protection and return protection*
  • No foreign transaction fees

By spending with the card, you’ll also be able to earn a large amount of Ultimate Rewards points through flexible spending categories:

  • 10X points per dollar on hotel and rental car reservations purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal (after spending $300 on travel)
  • 10X points per dollar when you use the Chase Dining program
  • 5X points per dollar on flights purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal (after spending $300 on travel)
  • 3X points per dollar on travel expenses (like flights, hotels, cabs, Ubers, trains and more) worldwide (after spending $300 on travel)
  • 3X points per dollar at restaurants and eligible delivery services, including takeout
  • 1X point per dollar spent everywhere else

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card comes with a $550 annual fee, just $25 more than what you’d pay for the United Club Infinite Card’s annual fee.If you’re deciding between the two cards, it really comes down to which benefits you think you will use the most and if you wish to have more flexibility with your rewards. Chase Ultimate Rewards® points can be transferred directly to United MileagePlus at a 1:1 ratio, so you could potentially earn more miles by using the Chase Sapphire Reserve card than the United Club Infinite Card based on where you do most of your spending. Plus, you can transfer to your Chase points to over ten other partners or redeem them through the Chase Travel Portal where you’ll ultimately have more flexibility in redemption.However, if your main focus is on earning status with United Airlines, the United Club Infinite Card gives you the chance to earn up to 4,000 Premier Qualifying Points per year — 500 per $12,000 spent — to help expedite your status-earning journey.Chase Sapphire Reserve®

  • RewardsEarn 5X total points on air travel and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2022
  • Welcome bonusEarn 50,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR16.99% to 23.99% variable
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Who the United Club Infinite Card is best forThe United Club℠ Infinite Card is a solid choice for regular travelers with good to excellent credit who are loyal to United Airlines and its many Star Alliance partners. It’s a great pick for anyone who can budget for the $525 annual fee, especially those who plan to take advantage of the many benefits it offers, such as complimentary United Club lounge access and up to two free checked bags.Keep in mind that because this is a Chase card, you may end up having to deal with the infamous Chase 5/24 rule — in other words, you won’t get approved for any new Chase cards if you’ve already gotten approved for five or more personal credit cards within the last 24 months.Bottom lineThe United Club℠ Infinite Card is a solid travel credit card, perfect for anyone who enjoys flying with United Airlines, spending time in United Club lounges and checking one or two bags when they fly. The card offers a lucrative 120,000-mile welcome bonus, flexible spending categories, a number of benefits to enhance your overall travel experience and comes with a sleek design.Before you apply for a new credit card, be sure you have room in your budget for the annual fee and enough purchases coming up to get you past the $6,000 spending threshold to get the welcome bonus. Without a sturdy budget, picking up a shiny new credit card could potentially lead to a financial disaster if you end up spending outside of your means.Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.*Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/ benefitsguide for more details. Purchase protection provided by AMEX Assurance Company.For rates and fees of the Platinum Card from American Express, click here.
Editorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Select editorial staff’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party. .

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Southwest Performance Business Credit Card Review 2022

Southwest Performance Business Credit Card Review 2022

Select’s editorial team works independently to review financial products and write articles we think our readers will find useful. We earn a commission from affiliate partners on many offers, but not all offers on Select are from affiliate partners.Subscribe to the Select Newsletter!Our best selections in your inbox. Shopping recommendations that help upgrade your life, delivered weekly. Sign-up here.Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business credit card reviewSouthwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card

  • RewardsEarn 4X points on Southwest® purchases; 3X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car partners; 2X points on rideshare; 2X points on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services; 1X points on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonusEarn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
  • Annual fee$199 applied to first billing statement
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR15.99% to 22.99% variable
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • Credit needed

Welcome bonusThe Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card offers a lucrative 80,000-point welcome bonus after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. Note that you won’t be able to receive the welcome bonus if you already have this business card or if you’ve previously received a welcome bonus for the same card within the last 24 months, even if you’re no longer a cardholder.If you’re able to meet the minimum-spending requirement, you’ll have an impressive number of Southwest Rapid Rewards points to start out with. Since they’re generally valued at 1.3 cents per point, you’ll end up with roughly $1,100 in value within the first few months of card membership, reflecting a 22% return on your spend once you hit that mark.As you continue to spend more with the card and rack up Rapid Rewards points, you’ll be well on your way to earning the highly-coveted Southwest Companion Pass, a level of status that serves as a buy-one-get-one ticket for you and your chosen traveling companion — you’ll only have to pay taxes and fees for their flight once you reach the threshold of 125,000 qualifying points or 100 qualifying one-way Southwest flights in a calendar year, making it an extremely valuable perk. Plus, there’s no limit on how often you can use the Companion Pass as long as it’s active.Benefits and perksThe Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card offers cardholders access to a variety of benefits and features. By making the most of these perks, its $199 annual fee becomes much easier to justify.Cardholders receive the following benefits:

  • 9,000 bonus points for each account anniversary
  • Four Upgraded Boardings per year (based on availability)
  • Up to 365 in-flight WiFi credits per year when flying with Southwest Airlines
  • A $100 credit every four years to put toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry enrollment
  • The chance to earn 1,500 Tier Qualifying Points toward A-List elite status for every $10,000 you spend
  • A $500 fee credit each anniversary year when you transfer Rapid Rewards points to another member
  • The ability to add authorized users for no additional fee
  • Lost luggage reimbursement, baggage delay insurance and travel accident insurance
  • Travel and emergency assistance and roadside dispatch services
  • Auto rental collision damage waivers on car rentals booked with the card
  • Extended warranty protection and purchase protection
  • No foreign transaction fees when you use your business card abroad
  • $0 delivery fees on restaurant orders above $12 (or groceries over $25), reduced service fees and $10 off your next order when you use the card and activate your complimentary year of DoorDash membership by Dec. 31, 2024.

Earning points for spendingWhen you spend on the card, you’ll earn: 

  • 4X Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent on purchases made with Southwest Airlines
  • 3X Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent with Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners
  • 2X Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent on social media and search engine advertising, as well as internet, cable, and phone services
  • 2X Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent on transit and commuting, including ride-sharing services
  • 1X Rapid Rewards point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases

Select calculated how many points the average American can earn in a year when using their Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card. We worked with the location intelligence firm Esri, who provided us with a sample annual spending budget of $22,126.The budget includes six main categories: groceries ($5,174), gas ($2,218), dining out ($3,675), travel ($2,244), utilities ($4,862) and general purchases ($3,953). Here’s what the average consumer would earn by using this card:

  • Groceries: 5,174 Southwest Rapid Rewards points
  • Gas: 2,218 Southwest Rapid Rewards points
  • Dining out: 3,675 Southwest Rapid Rewards points
  • Travel: 8,976 Southwest Rapid Rewards points (assuming all travel dollars are spent with Southwest Airlines).
  • Utilities: 4,862 Southwest Rapid Rewards points
  • General purchases: 3,953 Southwest Rapid Rewards points

With all spending considered, you would end up earning 28,858 Southwest Rapid Rewards points within the first year — if you were to include the 80,000-point welcome bonus, this type of spending would yield 108,858 Rapid Rewards points. Over a five year period, cardholders could potentially earn 224,290 Southwest Rapid Rewards points, although the total amount would depend more on an individual or business’ annual spending habits.How to earn and redeem Southwest Rapid Rewards pointsEarning Southwest Rapid Rewards pointsThere are two main avenues when it comes to earning Southwest Rapid Rewards points: fly with the carrier or spend with one of Southwest Airlines’ co-branded credit cards. Depending on your status and which Southwest credit card you’re using, you’ll earn a different amount of points per flight. By also paying for daily purchases with your card, you’ll see those points accumulate pretty quickly.Cardholders can also earn more points as they fly, though the amount varies by which fare is booked:

  • If you book a ‘Wanna Get Away’ ticket, you’ll earn 6X points per dollar on the base fare
  • If you book an ‘Anytime’ ticket, you’ll earn 10X points per dollar on the base fare
  • If you book a ‘Business Select’ ticket, you’ll earn 12X points per dollar on the base fare

Note that the base fare is the price of the ticket alone, without any additional taxes or fees.Another way to earn Rapid Rewards points is by using credit cards that offer transferable points as a perk. Travel rewards cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® let cardholders earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which can be transferred at a 1:1 ratio to Southwest Airlines, one of its travel partners. Should you decide to fly with another airline like British Airways or United Airlines, Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred to their loyalty programs as well.If you believe a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card is the best solution for your travel needs but aren’t 100% sold on the Performance Business Credit Card, here are some other co-branded cards to consider:PersonalBusinessRedeeming Southwest Rapid Rewards pointsOnce you’ve earned enough points for a free flight, the redemption process is simple. All you need to do is visit the Southwest Airlines website and log into your Rapid Rewards account. You can then begin searching for flights — just remember to click the “points” button rather than “dollars” before you submit.While the most valuable use by far of Rapid Rewards points is cashing them in for free flights, you can also choose to redeem them for car rentals, hotels, gift cards or other merchandise. Because the overall value of your points will be reduced, it’s best to use your hard-earned points for free flights, which offer the biggest bang for your buck.Rates and feesCard comparisonThe Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card is a solid choice for small business owners looking to save on future Southwest flight costs. But is it the best card for you?Select analyzed two other business travel credit cards to see how they match up with the Southwest Performance Business card.Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card vs. Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express CardThe Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card is a fine airline card geared toward small business owners who enjoy flying with Delta. To get you started, the card comes with a lucrative welcome offer, which ends April 13, 2022, letting you earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 within the first three months of account opening.The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business card comes with an array of benefits, including a status boost to help you get closer to Delta elite status, as well as priority boarding, a yearly Companion Certificate, 20% in in-flight savings, a $100 credit toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry and travel insurance coverage, among other perks, like no foreign transaction fees.As you spend on the card, you’ll earn 3X miles per dollar spent with Delta and directly with hotels, 1.5X miles per dollar spent on purchases over $5,000 (up to 50,000 miles per year) and 1X miles per dollar spent on all other purchases.If you’re trying to decide between the two cards, keep a few factors in mind. First of all, Delta has a much larger flight network featuring many international destinations while Southwest Airlines is primarily a domestic airline, though it does currently fly to 14 destinations in 10 countries outside the U.S. Also, if you know where you’ll be flying most, compare Delta and Southwest flights to those destinations to see which airline has more frequent and direct options from your home airport.Another thing to consider is how often you fly with someone else, as it may be worth going for the Southwest Companion Pass if this is something that happens a lot and you’re looking to continue that trend. Lastly, are you married to luxury benefits such as priority boarding and discounted lounge access when it comes to your flight experience? If the answer is yes, the Delta Platinum Business card may be the better option of the two.Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card On the American Express secure site

  • RewardsEarn 3X miles on every dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Delta and on every eligible dollar spent on purchases made directly with hotels. Earn 1.5X miles per dollar on single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more (that’s an extra half mile per dollar), up to 50,000 additional miles per year. 1X mile on every eligible dollar spent on other purchases.
  • Welcome bonusLimited Time Offer: Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in purchases on your new card in your first 3 months of card membership. Offer ends 4/13/2022.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR15.99% – 24.99% variable on purchases
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • Credit needed

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card vs. United ClubSM Business CardThe United Club Business Card is a suitable option for business owners who prefer flying with United Airlines. Once approved, you’ll be able to earn the 100,000- mile welcome bonus after spending $10,000 within the first three months of opening your account.The card offers terrific benefits for United frequent flyers, including access to United Airlines airline lounges, free first and second checked bags, premier access travel services such as priority boarding and check-in, travel insurance and Avis President’s club status, among other perks. There are also no foreign transaction fees to worry about if you’re using your card outside the U.S.When it comes to earning valuable United MileagePlus miles, the spending categories are quite simple — 2X miles per dollar spent on United purchases and 1.5X miles per dollar spent elsewhere.There is one big difference between these two cards: The United Club Business Card carries a hefty $450 annual fee, while the Southwest Performance Business Credit Card’s is just $199. If you’re considering both cards, think hard about which annual fee you’re willing to stomach and be honest about whether or not you’ll be able to use benefits such as airline lounges and priority boarding enough to justify it. Most importantly, before you select a new credit card, make sure your current budget is solid enough to absorb the new expenses.United Club℠ Business CardInformation about the United Club℠ Business Card has been collected independently by CNBC and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

  • Rewards2 miles per $1 spent on United purchases and 1.5 miles per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonus100,000 bonus miles after you make $10,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR16.49% to 23.49% variable
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • Credit needed

Who the Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card is best forThe Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card is a great option for business owners who want to save money on flight costs, have a few perks when flying Southwest and potentially earn the Southwest Companion Pass, which over time would allow them to save even more.The Performance Business Card comes with a handful of helpful travel benefits and is a great fit for frequent flyers focusing on value over luxury. Flying with the budget airline doesn’t mean you’ll be sacrificing quality either, as Southwest is consistently ranked one of the best airlines to fly with in terms of customer service.Bottom lineCatch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card, click here.*Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.Editorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Select editorial staff’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party. .

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Alaska Airlines Visa Credit Card Review: Rewards, Fees and More

Alaska Airlines Visa Credit Card Review: Rewards, Fees and More

Select’s editorial team works independently to review financial products and write articles we think our readers will find useful. We earn a commission from affiliate partners on many offers, but not all offers on Select are from affiliate partners.The Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card is a credit card offered by Alaska Airlines and Bank of America that gives consumers the opportunity to earn Alaska miles on their expenses as well as enjoy perks when traveling with the airline.While this is a relatively simple airline credit card, the beauty of the miles you earn lie in being able to book flights with Alaska’s partner airlines which include: American Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Fiji Airways and more. And while the airline is largely centered around airports on the West Coast, this card has more potential than meets the eye.Below, Select breaks down the rewards, benefits and fees associated with the Alaska Airlines credit card to help you decide if it’s right for your needs.Subscribe to the Select Newsletter!Our best selections in your inbox. Shopping recommendations that help upgrade your life, delivered weekly. Sign-up here.Alaska Airlines Visa Credit Card reviewAlaska Airlines Visa® credit card

  • RewardsEarn unlimited three miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases and one mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Welcome bonus60,000 bonus miles after you make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee3% of each transaction (minimum $10)
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • Credit needed

Welcome bonusThe welcome bonus for the Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card is simple: you can earn 60,000 Alaska bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in the first 90 days of card membership.And if you’re able to meet the spending requirement, you’ll have a minimum of 63,000 miles in your account to get started. So at a modest one cent per point value, that is $630 in value right away. However, many people value Alaska miles much higher than 1 cent apiece, so it’s possible to get significantly more value than $630 depending on how you use your miles.And what’s more is that you’ll also receive an Alaska Companion Fare™, which is a buy-one-get-one ticket for an Alaska Airlines flight. You’ll receive this each year after paying your $75 annual fee. And when you redeem your pass, you’ll only need to pay $99 for the companion’s fare plus taxes and fees.Benefits and perksWhile there are other airline credit cards available that may offer more benefits, the Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card is concise in its value with its great welcome bonus and solid benefits for Alaska flyers. The card offers the following benefits:

  • Free checked bag on Alaska Airlines for you and up to six guests on the same reservation
  • 20% back on all Alaska Airlines inflight purchases
  • 50% off day passes at the Alaska Lounge when you pay with your card
  • Receive an Alaska Companion Fare every year
  • $0 liability protection
  • No foreign transaction fees

While the card isn’t packed with a ton of benefits, the value in the ones included are solid. For example, the free checked bag benefit on one round-trip will save you $60 — almost covering the entire annual fee for the card. And if you travel internationally, you won’t be charged a pesky 3% foreign transaction fee on purchases made outside the U.S. And if you desire to visit an Alaska lounge before your flight, your entry is sliced in half from $60 to $30 when you pay with the card.So in short, the card’s annual fee can be justified quickly just by using the benefits it offers.Earning miles for spendingAs you spend on the card, you’ll earn:

  • 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases
  • 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases

This makes the card simple enough for consumers to know that all non-Alaska purchases will earn 1 mile per dollar, whereas some cards have multiple spending categories.Select calculated how many points the average American can earn in a year when using their Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card. We worked with the location intelligence firm Esri, who provided us with a sample annual spending budget of $22,126.The budget includes six main categories: groceries ($5,174), gas ($2,218), dining out ($3,675), travel ($2,244), utilities ($4,862) and general purchases ($3,953). Here’s what the average consumer would earn using this card:

  • Groceries: 5,174 Alaska Airlines miles
  • Gas: 2,218 Alaska Airlines miles
  • Dining out: 3,675 Alaska Airlines miles
  • Travel: 6,732 Alaska Airlines miles (Assuming all travel dollars are spent with Alaska Airlines).
  • Utilities: 4,862 Alaska Airlines miles
  • General purchases: 3,953 Alaska Airlines miles

With all spending considered, this would net 26,614 Alaska Airlines miles in the first year of card membership, and if you include the 60,000-point welcome bonus, this would yield 86,614 Alaska Airlines miles in just the first year. Over a five-year period, cardholders could potentially earn 193,070 Alaska miles — although the total amount will depend on an individual’s annual spending habits.How to earn and redeem Alaska Airlines milesEarning Alaska Airlines milesThere are two obvious ways to earn Alaska Airlines miles: spend on the Alaska Airlines card as well as fly on the airline.However, there are a few more ways you can earn Alaska miles.First, you can fly with one of their many airline partners, including domestic partners like American Airlines. When you book your flight, be sure to have your miles credited to your Alaska Airlines Mileage Plant loyalty account.You can also transfer points from other loyalty programs into your Alaska Airlines account, such as Marriott Bonvoy points at a 3:1 ratio. In addition, you can earn an additional 5,000 bonus miles for every 60,000 Marriott points transferred.Finally you can earn miles when shopping with select retailers through the Alaska shopping portal, making hotel bookings with Alaska hotel partners and dining with restaurants that are apart of Mileage Plan dining.Redeeming Alaska Airlines milesOnce you’ve earned the miles you need for a free flight, the exciting part is redeeming them for a (nearly) free flight.To redeem your Alaska Airlines miles, visit the Alaska Airlines website and log in to your loyalty account. And then start searching for your preferred itinerary, but be sure to select “use miles”.Additionally, if you’re earning transferable credit cards rewards such as Chase Ultimate Rewards® points or American Express Membership Rewards® points, you can transfer your miles to any Oneworld partner, like British Airways, and redeem them for a flight on Alaska Airlines.However, the best part of redeeming Alaska miles is you can roughly estimate how much your flight will cost using their award chart. This is rare for domestic airlines as many have shifted to dynamic pricing, which means each flight and seat can cost a different amount based on their supply and demand.So for example, if you want to book a flight from Los Angeles to Miami in economy, it will cost between 12,500 and 50,000 miles each way. While the range of miles needed is large, it’s still helpful to know how far your miles can take you.You can get great value when redeeming Alaska Airlines miles for international business and first class flights. For example, you can book a one-way ticket from the U.S. to Asia in first class on Japan Airlines or Cathay Pacific for 70,000 Alaska miles. That flight can easily cost upwards of $7,000 when paid for in cash.Rates and feesCard comparisonThe Alaska Airlines Visa Credit Card is a great airline credit card for Alaska flyers. It’s a concise card as it offers a valuable welcome bonus, great spending categories and a modest annual fee. But how does it match up against other similar cards?Select analyzed two other travel credit cards to see how they match up against the Alaska Airlines Visa Credit Card.Alaska Airlines Visa Credit Card vs. Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express CardThe Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is another great airline card that earns Delta SkyMiles when its used for purchases. With the card, you’ll earn:

  • 2X miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases, U.S. supermarket purchases and restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
  • 1X mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases

Additionally, you can earn a solid welcome offer bonus of: 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new card in your first 3 months. Offer ends 4/13/2022. Terms apply.The card also comes with helpful benefits for your travels, including: first checked bag free, a $100 Delta travel credit when you spend $10,000 or more in a calendar year, *rental car insurance and 20% off in-flight purchases.The card has a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $99 after that. (See rates and fees)If you’re deciding between these two cards, it really comes down to your home airport, preferred airline and where you’re traveling to. If you live on or near the West Coast, the Alaska Airlines card may be a better fit as Alaska Airlines hubs are all located along the left side of the country. If you live in Atlanta or along the east coast, or travel internationally regularly, the Delta Gold card may suit your needs a bit better.Alaska Airlines Visa Credit Card vs. United℠ Explorer CardThe United℠ Explorer Card is another great pick for an airline credit card as it earns United miles on all eligible purchases for a low annual fee.As you spend on the card, you’ll earn:

  • 2X miles per dollar spent on dining, hotel stays when booked with the hotel and United® purchases
  • 1X mile per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases

And when you’re approved for the card, you’ll be able to earn the welcome bonus, which is: 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. these 50,000 miles can be redeemed on United and its airline alliance partners.The card comes with great perks, including: two United Club one-time passes per year, free first checked bag, a $100 credit to enroll in TSA PreCheck/Global Entry and 25% back on United in-flight purchases.The card has a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, and then $95 thereafter.Similar to the matchup above, the difference between the two cards comes down to where you live and your flight preferences. If you primarily travel up and down the West Coast, the Alaska Airlines card may be the better card. If you like to travel internationally and live in either the middle or East Coast of the U.S., the United card could be the better option.Who the Alaska Airlines Visa Credit Card is best forThe Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card is a solid choice for anyone who lives on the West Coast, flies at least occasionally with the airline and wants a simple card without a long list of features or spending categories to track. So if you appreciate simplicity while earning valuable airline miles, this card is a great pick.Additionally, the card is great for someone who enjoys traveling with someone else as it comes with an annual Companion Fare — which is essentially a buy-one-get-one ticket. When you use the Companion Fare, your travel partner will travel for just $121. So if you have an expensive flight coming up you’d like to take with someone, this benefit can be a big money saver.Lastly, if you have plans to travel internationally, Alaska Airlines has a great award chart for international travel (especially in premium cabins). So if you want the flexibility of earning miles that can be redeemed on other airlines (including American), this card could be a good fit.Bottom lineCatch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, click here.*Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/ benefitsguide for more details. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.Editorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Select editorial staff’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party. .

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Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card Review

Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card Review

Select’s editorial team works independently to review financial products and write articles we think our readers will find useful. We earn a commission from affiliate partners on many offers, but not all offers on Select are from affiliate partners.The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is the most premium version of the personal Southwest cobranded credit cards. This card was designed for travelers who fly with the airline on a regular basis and for those who can take advantage of the many perks offered.With benefits like a $75 annual Southwest travel credit, 7,500 annual anniversary points, four Upgraded Boardings each year, travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees and broad spending categories — this card is a great fit for an avid Southwest flyer.Below, Select breaks down the rewards, benefits and fees associated with the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card to help you decide if it’s right for your needs.Subscribe to the Select Newsletter!Our best selections in your inbox. Shopping recommendations that help upgrade your life, delivered weekly. Sign-up here.Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority credit card reviewSouthwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

  • RewardsEarn 3X points on Southwest® purchases, 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare; 2X points on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming; 1X points on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonusEarn Companion Pass® through 2/28/23 plus 30,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR15.99% to 22.99% variable
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • Credit needed

Pros

  • Southwest upgraded boarding on up to 4 tickets per year
  • 7,500 bonus points on each account anniversary
  • $75 Southwest annual travel credit
  • 4 upgraded boardings per year when available

Cons

  • $149 annual fee
  • No special financing offers
  • Estimated points earned after 1 year: 52,672
  • Estimated points earned after 5 years: 196,030

Rewards totals incorporate the miles earned from the welcome bonusWelcome bonusThe welcome bonus for the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is a bit different than a simple chunk of airline miles. After signing up for the card you can earn the Southwest Companion Pass® through Feb. 28, 2023, plus 30,000 Rapid Rewards points by spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.This welcome bonus is great: not only will you have the highly-regarded Companion Pass but you’ll also earn a minimum of 35,000 Southwest points to use on a flight of your choosing. The Companion Pass allows you to bring along anyone of your choosing onto a Southwest flight for free, all you have to do is pay taxes and fees for your companion’s ticket (usually just $5.60 for a one-way domestic flight within the U.S.). Plus, as long as it’s active, there’s no limit on how many times you can use the Southwest Companion Pass.Keep in mind that this bonus isn’t available to everyone. You can’t currently have a personal Southwest credit card and also must not have received a welcome bonus for a personal Southwest credit card in the last 24 months.Benefits and perksThe Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card offers cardholders access to the following benefits:

  • 7,500 bonus points for each account anniversary
  • $75 Southwest travel credit per year
  • Four upgraded boardings per year
  • 25% back on inflight purchases
  • You can earn 1,500 tier qualifying points towards Southwest A-List elite status for every $10,000 spent, with no limit on the amount of elite points you can earn.
  • DoorDash benefits
  • No foreign transaction fees when you use the card abroad

All points earned with the card count toward the highly-coveted Southwest Companion Pass®, which allows one person to fly with you for free (except for taxes and fees) when you buy or redeem points for flights after reaching the threshold of 125,000 qualifying points or 100 qualifying one-way Southwest flights in a calendar yearEarning miles for spendingWhen you spend on the card, you’ll earn: 

  • 3X Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent on purchases with Southwest Airlines
  • 2X Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners
  • 2X Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent on local transit and commuting, including rideshare services
  • 2X Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent on internet, cable, phone and select streaming services
  • 1X Rapid Rewards point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases

Other benefitsSouthwest Airlines is a favorite airline for many as you get to enjoy two free checked bags per person and no change fees on tickets. And all of the points you earn through flying or spending on a Southwest credit card will never expire.And when you hold the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card, you’ll also receive these benefits at no charge:

  • Complimentary travel accident insurance and emergency assistance, reimbursement for lost luggage, auto rental collision damage waivers for car rentals, roadside dispatch service, purchase and extended warranty protection and baggage delay insurance
  • DoorDash benefits, including $0 delivery fees on restaurant orders above $12 (or groceries over $25), reduced service fees and $10 off your next order when you use the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus card after you activate your complimentary year of membership by Dec. 31, 2024.

Select calculated how many points the average American can earn in a year when using their Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card. We worked with the location intelligence firm Esri, who provided us with a sample annual spending budget of $22,126.The budget includes six main categories: groceries ($5,174), gas ($2,218), dining out ($3,675), travel ($2,244), utilities ($4,862) and general purchases ($3,953). Here’s what the average consumer would earn using this card:

  • Groceries: 5,174 Southwest Rapid Rewards points
  • Gas: 2,218 Southwest Rapid Rewards points
  • Dining out: 3,675 Southwest Rapid Rewards points
  • Travel: 6,732 Southwest Rapid Rewards points (Assuming all travel dollars are spent with Southwest Airlines).
  • Utilities: 4,862 Southwest Rapid Rewards points
  • General purchases: 3,953 Southwest Rapid Rewards points

With all spending considered, this would give a cardholder 26,614 Southwest Rapid Rewards points in the first year, and if you include the 30,000-point welcome bonus, this would yield 56,614 Rapid Rewards points. Over a five year period, cardholders could potentially earn 133,070 Southwest Rapid Rewards points — although the total amount will depend on an individual’s annual spending habits.How to earn and redeem Southwest Rapid Rewards milesEarning Southwest Rapid Rewards pointsEarning Southwest points is simple: either spend on one of the Southwest credit cards or fly with the airline.However, it’s difficult to earn heaps of points since you can only earn one welcome bonus every two years with a personal co-branded Southwest credit card. And unless you fly multiple times per month with Southwest, earning hundreds of thousands of points may not be realistic through these avenues.If you want to earn large amounts of points, consider earning rewards through credit cards with transferable rewards. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which can be transferred directly to Southwest Rapid Rewards at a 1:1 ratio. These cards are some of the best travel credit cards because you have the flexibility to redeem your rewards in a variety of ways, including transferring them to Southwest.If you’re thinking of adding a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card to your wallet but aren’t sure if the Southwest Priority card is right for you, consider another one of the airline’s co-branded personal or business credit cards:PersonalBusinessRedeeming Southwest Rapid Rewards pointsOnce you earn enough points for a free flight, then comes the fun part of booking award travel.And while some airlines make it difficult to use their rewards programs, Southwest has a straightforward redemption process. To use your miles, simply log into your Southwest Rapid Rewards account and when you search for a flight, click “points” rather than “dollars”. Southwest points have a fixed value of around 1.3 to 1.4 cents apiece and prices for award flights are dependent on the current cash price of the ticket. So if a flight costs $100 you can expect to pay 6,000 to 7,000 points for that flight.As you search for flights, you’ll notice that you fill have to pay taxes and fees, depending on where you fly. If you’re flying within the United States, you will pay $5.60 for each one-way flight. International fees will vary.And you don’t need to pay your taxes and fees with a Southwest credit card credit card, so feel free to use another card that you prefer.Rates and feesCard comparisonWhile the Southwest Priority credit card is a solid pick for Southwest flyers, how does it fare other value-packed rewards credit cards?Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card vs. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit CardThe Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great travel credit card as it earns a consistent 2X miles per dollar spent on all eligible purchases. And it has benefits including a valuable 60,000 bonus miles welcome offer once you spend $3,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.You’ll also receive up to $100 statement credit for your application fee for either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry every four years.So if you’re deciding between the two cards, it comes down to a few factors:

  • Do you only fly Southwest? If so, the Southwest card may be the better option.
  • Do you prefer having spending categories or earning a flat-rate on all purchases? The Venture card has a flat-rate on all purchases, while the Southwest Card has different earnings for various category purchases.
  • Do you value transferable rewards more, or the Companion Pass?

Based on these questions, you should quickly know which one of the two is a better fit for you. But at a high level, if you travel with a companion regularly and mainly travel domestically, the Southwest card will likely be the better fit. If you travel on various airlines and prefer to go outside the U.S., the Capital One Venture card would probably be the better choice of the two.Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card vs. Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®The Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is a great choice for someone who enjoys flying internationally, and possibly lives near an American Airlines hub airport like Miami, Phoenix or Los Angeles.With this card, you’ll earn 2X miles for every $1 spent at restaurants, gas stations and on eligible American Airlines purchases. All other eligible purchases will earn 1X mile per dollar spent.The welcome offer packs a punch as you can earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $2,500 in purchases within the first three months of account opening. In addition, there are no foreign transaction fees and a waived annual fee the first year ($99 after that).When you’re comparing the two cards, it simply comes down to which airline loyalty program will serve your needs and if you value Southwest’s Companion Pass benefit. The American Airlines loyalty program is part of the Oneworld airline alliance, which has 14 total airlines that partner to serve one another’s customers. This means you can use American miles to fly around the world on over a dozen different airlines.While Southwest isn’t part of an airline alliance, the card comes with an extremely valuable automatic benefit in the Companion Pass, giving you the ability to travel with someone for free, less taxes and fees.Who the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card is best forThe Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is a solid airline credit card and designed for consumers who fly regularly with Southwest. And with the new welcome offer the card is targeted towards those flying with a companion.But if you aren’t flying regularly with a companion to make the welcome offer ‘worth’ it, you may be better off selecting another card or waiting for a welcome bonus that is solely Southwest points.The card has a hefty $149 annual fee but does offer ample benefits to Southwest flyers that can help offset the cost. For instance, just the annual $75 Southwest credit and anniversary 7,500 Southwest points alone can be worth more than $150. Plus, you’ll get four Upgraded Boardings every year and 25% back on Southwest inflight purchases. These perks are geared toward Southwest flyers but if you can use them, which shouldn’t be too hard if you fly Southwest a handful of times per year, then you’ll likely enjoy having the Southwest Priority card in your wallet.Bottom lineThe Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is a great choice for someone who flies Southwest often.The recently refreshed welcome bonus which includes the Companion Pass, as well as the benefits of earning Southwest Rapid Rewards points on all eligible purchases, a $75 Southwest annual credit and multiple Upgraded Boardings each year make the card worth considering. And now that the Companion Pass is obtainable by spending $5,000 in the first three months of card membership, it’s a great fit for someone who travels with a partner or friend often.However, even though welcome offer is extremely appealing for avid travelers, it can be tempting to hastily spend the $5,000 needed to earn it. But as always, its never advised to apply for a credit card when you’re not in a solid financial situation. But as long as you follow your budget carefully and continue to invest for the future, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is worth considering for any avid Southwest flyer.Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.Information about the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.Editorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Select editorial staff’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party. .