The Points Guy believes that credit cards can transform lives, helping you leverage everyday spending for cash back or travel experiences that might otherwise be out of reach. That's why we publish a variety of editorial content and card comparisons: to help you find a great card to turn your goals into reality.
Our site may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened with our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear. While we don't cover all available credit cards, our editorial team creates and maintains all of the analysis of these cards, and our content is not influenced nor subject to review by any credit card company, bank or partner prior to (or after) publication. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information.
The Points Guy believes that credit cards can transform lives, helping you leverage everyday spending for cash back or travel experiences that might otherwise be out of reach. That's why we publish a variety of editorial content and card comparisons: to help you find a great card to turn your goals into reality.
Our site may earn compensation when a customer clicks on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened with our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear. While we don't cover all available credit cards, our editorial team creates and maintains all of the analysis of these cards, and our content is not influenced nor subject to review by any credit card company, bank or partner prior to (or after) publication. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information.
Credit Cards
At The Points Guy, our goal is to help you maximize your travel experiences while minimizing spending. While we do receive compensation through our credit card application links, ads and clearly indicated sponsored content, our editorial content, points valuations and card analyses are entirely our own. Learn more about our advertising policy and product review methodology.
Best for flexible travel rewards
The best United Airlines credit cards offer great perks for frequent flyers — as well as casual travelers who sometimes find themselves on a United flight. Some United credit cards unlock useful benefits when flying on United and using United MileagePlus miles, while others earn valuable transferable points you can redeem through other reward programs.
Whether you’re looking for ways to optimize your United credit card usage to earn more miles or want to apply for a new card, our guide to the best credit cards from our partners for United Airlines flyers will help you find the right fit.
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“More details on the best United credit cards”
United flyers can take advantage of varying welcome bonuses offered on United credit cards.
Starting at zero, United credit card annual fees range from budget-friendly to premium.
We selected cards that feature elevated mile-earning rates.
Cardholders can redeem MileagePlus miles and earned rewards for future travel.
United cardholders get access to extra perks like free checked bags.
Not according to TPG’s annual report, which has United in third place (behind Delta and Alaska). United took top scores for loyalty and fell near the top of the heap for its route network and cost structure. However, it was the second-worst airline for delivering checked luggage to passengers, and it ranked sixth in cancellation rate. These operational issues ultimately led to United slipping from second in 2023 to third this year.
Here’s how United compared in this year’s analysis.
Cobranded United Airlines credit cards offer many benefits for travelers. Here’s a look at what you can expect from some of the MileagePlus credit cards we discussed above.
Choose the best United Airlines credit card based on your spending and travel needs. Frequent United flyers will get a lot of value out of a card that offers lounge access and a Global Entry credit while casual flyers may prefer a no-frills, lower annual fee option.
Here are some of the main points to consider when choosing a United credit card:
Opt for a card with an attainable sign-up bonus that suits your budget. Once you’ve earned a bonus, you’ll be able to use it for future travel.
Those seeking premium value from a United card will find tons of value in the options that have higher annual fees.
Choose a card that grants access to bonus categories you frequently spend in, whether it’s on groceries or dining out. This way, you maximize your earning potential.
Become a MileagePlus pro with these tips
You can apply for a United card online or by mail. Upon approval, your new card should arrive by mail — regardless of how you applied — in seven to 10 days. To streamline the process, you can access United card applications here:
The ideal United Airlines credit card choice depends on your specific requirements. The United Club℠ Card would be your most suitable option if you want United Club access. However, if your main priority is to receive the benefit of a complimentary first checked bag on domestic United Airlines flights, the United℠ Explorer Card or United Quest℠ Card would likely be best.
According to TPG's valuations, MileagePlus miles are worth 1.35 cents apiece.
Obtaining a United Airlines card can be advantageous if its benefits outweigh the annual fee. To illustrate, simply avoiding four checked bag fees per year would make keeping the United℠ Explorer Card in your wallet a worthwhile long-term investment. Moreover, the annual fee for the United Club℠ Card is lower than that of a United Club membership, making it an even more cost-effective option.
Annual fees will vary depending on the United Airlines credit card you have. The annual fees for United Airlines credit cards are included below:
United℠ Explorer Card: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $150 per year thereafter
United Quest℠ Card: $350
United Gateway℠ card: $0
United Club℠ card: $695
United Club℠ Business card: $695
United℠ Business card: $150
The information for the United Club Business Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
You can apply for United Airlines cards by clicking the hyperlinked card names on our page.
Redeeming your MileagePlus miles can be done over the phone, in the United app or on United's website. If you're logged into your account online or using the app, you should see an option to use your miles for redemptions. You can choose between things like award flights and upgrades — simply choose what you want to use your miles for and click 'submit.'
Only three major credit card currencies transfer to United MileagePlus: Chase Ultimate Rewards points, at a 1:1 ratio; Marriott Bonvoy points, at a 3:1.1 ratio; and Bilt Rewards, at a 1:1 ratio. Many cobranded Chase credit cards earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points, Marriott Bonvoy credit cards earn Marriott points, and you can earn Bilt Points with the Bilt Mastercard®.
The information for the Bilt Mastercard has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
No, United Airlines credit cards do not have foreign transaction fees.
You can use your cobranded United Airlines credit card at most merchants that accept Visa credit cards.
Some United Airlines credit cards, including the United Club℠ Card, offer worldwide car rental insurance coverage when you pay for your rental with your card. Check out each card’s benefits to determine whether your card offers rental car coverage and, if so, the specific details of the coverage.
You'll typically need good credit — a credit score of at least 670 — to be approved for a United Airlines credit card.
Yes, you can add eligible United credit cards to Apple, Google or Samsung mobile wallets.
MileagePlus miles do not expire. This means you can accrue them over time and save them for a special redemption once you've hit your points goal.
Yes, holding more than one United credit card simultaneously is possible. You may find more value, however, in holding a single United card that earns MileagePlus miles instead of splitting your spending power between two United cards. Also, remember that you'll be under the Chase 5/24 rule since Chase issues United cards.
What's your favorite United credit card — and why?
United℠ Explorer Card“I love that my Explorer card includes a pair of one-time United Club passes, but I keep it in my wallet for free checked bags and expanded award availability. Even as an infrequent United traveler, I still easily get enough value from these perks to justify the manageable ongoing $150 annual fee.”
Best for flexible travel rewards
| Rate | Category |
|---|---|
| 5x | Earn 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠. |
| 3x | Earn 3x on dining, vacation homes, gas & EV charging, top streaming services and online groceries (excluding Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs). |
| 2x | Earn 2x on all other travel purchases. |
| 1x | Earn 1x on all other purchases. |
75,000 bonus points.
$95
19.49% - 27.74% Variable
670-850
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card remains one of the easiest travel rewards cards to recommend because it has elevated rewards across everyday spending categories, valuable travel protections, useful statement credits and an approachable annual fee. Whether you're new to points and miles or already maximizing transfer partners, it offers a rare combination of flexibility and long-term value for both beginners and experienced travelers alike.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card remains one of the easiest travel rewards cards to recommend because it has elevated rewards across everyday spending categories, valuable travel protections, useful statement credits and an approachable annual fee. Whether you're new to points and miles or already maximizing transfer partners, it offers a rare combination of flexibility and long-term value for both beginners and experienced travelers alike.
Best for flexible travel rewards
75,000 bonus points.
$95
19.49% - 27.74% Variable
670-850
Excellent/Good
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card remains one of the easiest travel rewards cards to recommend because it has elevated rewards across everyday spending categories, valuable travel protections, useful statement credits and an approachable annual fee. Whether you're new to points and miles or already maximizing transfer partners, it offers a rare combination of flexibility and long-term value for both beginners and experienced travelers alike.
Best for frequent travelers
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® remains one of the most rewarding travel credit cards thanks to its elevated earning rates on both Chase Travel℠ and direct hotel and airline purchases. Cardholders also gain access to more than $2,800 in potential annual value through premium perks like lounge access, hotel status, lifestyle credits and flexible travel credits.
With its strong earning structure and access to Chase’s airline and hotel partners, it’s a top choice for travelers seeking both luxury and long-term value.
Best for frequent travelers
Best for occasional United flyers
Between a TSA PreCheck/Global Entry fee credit, two annual lounge visits and a free checked bag, the United Explorer card is packed with perks that will enhance your trips for even occasional United flyers. Read our full review of the United Explorer card.
Best for occasional United flyers
Best for frequent United flyers
The United Quest Card is a solid, middle-of-the-road option for frequent United flyers. The $350 annual fee is more than cut in half if you can take advantage of the annual $200 United travel credit, and there’s a long list of benefits from checked baggage benefits to a strong earning rate on United and everyday purchases. Read our full review of the United Quest Card.
Best for frequent United flyers
Best for business travel rewards
The Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠ is a top choice for business owners who prioritize travel and premium perks. It offers elevated rewards, including 8 points per dollar spent through Chase Travel℠ and 4 points per dollar spent on flights and hotels booked direct.
Cardmembers also receive flexible statement credits totalling over $2,500 annually, including more than $1,300 in travel value and $1,200 towards business services. These credits cover a wide range of expenses, such as a $300 annual travel credit and a $400 ZipRecruiter hiring credit.
While the card carries a high annual fee, its broad range of benefits and generous earning potential make it a solid choice for businesses with frequent travel and significant spending needs.
Best for business travel rewards
Best for United business travelers
If you’re a business owner, the United Business card offers excellent benefits for United flyers while charging a low annual fee. Read our full review of the United Business Card.
Best for United business travelers
Best for United Club access
Only the United Club Card grants you complimentary United Club lounge membership, worth up to $750 per year. Although this card comes with a steep $695 annual fee, the lounge benefit alone can more than cover this annual cost. Not to mention the other ongoing perks of this card, from two free checked bags and up to $120 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA Precheck. For frequent United flyers, this card can provide tons of value each year. Read our full review of the United Club Card.
Best for United Club access
Best for entry-level benefits
If you’re looking for an entry point into earning United miles, the United Gateway Card is a solid option. The sign-up bonus is a bit more valuable than many no-annual-fee cards out there, and you’re getting a solid rewards structure. Read our full review of the United Gateway Card.
Best for entry-level benefits
Best for high-spending businesses
The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card offers a lucrative intro bonus and earns points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card.
Best for high-spending businesses
| Credit card | Best for | Intro offer | Earning rate | Annual fee | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| flexible travel rewards | 75,000 bonus points. | 1 - 5X points | $95 | Apply now at Chase's secure siteSee rates & fees | |
Limited-Time Offer | |||||
Limited-Time Offer | |||||
Offer Extended | |||||
Limited-Time Offer | |||||
Limited-Time Offer | |||||
Excellent/Good
| Rate | Category |
|---|---|
| 8x | Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠. |
| 4x | Earn 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. |
| 3x | Earn 3x points on dining worldwide. |
| 1x | Earn 1x points on all other purchases. |
100,000 bonus points.
$795
19.74% - 28.24% Variable
740-850
Excellent
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® remains one of the most rewarding travel credit cards thanks to its elevated earning rates on both Chase Travel℠ and direct hotel and airline purchases. Cardholders also gain access to more than $2,800 in potential annual value through premium perks like lounge access, hotel status, lifestyle credits and flexible travel credits.
With its strong earning structure and access to Chase’s airline and hotel partners, it’s a top choice for travelers seeking both luxury and long-term value.
100,000 bonus points.
$795
19.74% - 28.24% Variable
740-850
Excellent
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® remains one of the most rewarding travel credit cards thanks to its elevated earning rates on both Chase Travel℠ and direct hotel and airline purchases. Cardholders also gain access to more than $2,800 in potential annual value through premium perks like lounge access, hotel status, lifestyle credits and flexible travel credits.
With its strong earning structure and access to Chase’s airline and hotel partners, it’s a top choice for travelers seeking both luxury and long-term value.
| Rate | Category |
|---|---|
| 9x | Earn 9x total miles on eligible United flights. |
| 3x | Earn 3x miles on all other eligible United® purchases. |
| 2x | Earn 2x miles on dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel. |
| 1x | Earn 1x mile on all other purchases. |
Earn up to 80,000 miles
$0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150
19.74% - 28.24% Variable
Good Credit, Excellent Credit
Between a TSA PreCheck/Global Entry fee credit, two annual lounge visits and a free checked bag, the United Explorer card is packed with perks that will enhance your trips for even occasional United flyers. Read our full review of the United Explorer card.
Earn up to 80,000 miles
$0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150
19.74% - 28.24% Variable
Good Credit, Excellent Credit
Between a TSA PreCheck/Global Entry fee credit, two annual lounge visits and a free checked bag, the United Explorer card is packed with perks that will enhance your trips for even occasional United flyers. Read our full review of the United Explorer card.
| Rate | Category |
|---|---|
| 10x | Earn 10x total miles on eligible United flights. |
| 4x | Earn 4x miles on all other eligible United® purchases. |
| 2x | Earn 2x miles on dining, select streaming services & all other travel. |
| 1x | Earn 1x mile on all other purchases. Plus, receive a $200 United® travel credit and 10,000-mile award flight discount on each account anniversary, as well as earn up to 18,000 Premier qualifying points. |
Earn up to 90,000 miles
$350
19.74% - 28.24% Variable
670-850
Excellent, Good
The United Quest Card is a solid, middle-of-the-road option for frequent United flyers. The $350 annual fee is more than cut in half if you can take advantage of the annual $200 United travel credit, and there’s a long list of benefits from checked baggage benefits to a strong earning rate on United and everyday purchases. Read our full review of the United Quest Card.
Earn up to 90,000 miles
$350
19.74% - 28.24% Variable
670-850
Excellent, Good
The United Quest Card is a solid, middle-of-the-road option for frequent United flyers. The $350 annual fee is more than cut in half if you can take advantage of the annual $200 United travel credit, and there’s a long list of benefits from checked baggage benefits to a strong earning rate on United and everyday purchases. Read our full review of the United Quest Card.
| Rate | Category |
|---|---|
| 8x | Earn 8x points on Chase Travel℠ for airline tickets, hotels, including The Edit℠, car rentals, cruises, activities and tours. |
| 5x | Earn 5x total points on Lyft rides through 9/30/27. |
| 4x | Earn 4x points on flights & hotels booked direct. |
| 3x | Earn 3x points on social media & search engine advertising on up to $1 million in spend each anniversary year, starting 11/15/26. |
| 1x | Earn 1x points on all other purchases. |
Earn 200,000 bonus points
$795
Flex for Business Variable APR: 17.74% - 28.49%
Good Credit, Excellent Credit
The Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠ is a top choice for business owners who prioritize travel and premium perks. It offers elevated rewards, including 8 points per dollar spent through Chase Travel℠ and 4 points per dollar spent on flights and hotels booked direct.
Cardmembers also receive flexible statement credits totalling over $2,500 annually, including more than $1,300 in travel value and $1,200 towards business services. These credits cover a wide range of expenses, such as a $300 annual travel credit and a $400 ZipRecruiter hiring credit.
While the card carries a high annual fee, its broad range of benefits and generous earning potential make it a solid choice for businesses with frequent travel and significant spending needs.
Earn 200,000 bonus points
$795
Flex for Business Variable APR: 17.74% - 28.49%
Good Credit, Excellent Credit
The Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠ is a top choice for business owners who prioritize travel and premium perks. It offers elevated rewards, including 8 points per dollar spent through Chase Travel℠ and 4 points per dollar spent on flights and hotels booked direct.
Cardmembers also receive flexible statement credits totalling over $2,500 annually, including more than $1,300 in travel value and $1,200 towards business services. These credits cover a wide range of expenses, such as a $300 annual travel credit and a $400 ZipRecruiter hiring credit.
While the card carries a high annual fee, its broad range of benefits and generous earning potential make it a solid choice for businesses with frequent travel and significant spending needs.
| Rate | Category |
|---|---|
| 8x | Earn 8x total miles on eligible United® flights. |
| 2x | Earn 2x miles on all other eligible United® purchases. |
| 2x | Earn 2x miles on dining, at gas stations, office supply stores and on local transit and commuting. |
| 1x | Earn 1x mile on all other purchases. |
Earn up to 100,000 miles + 2,000 PQP
$150
19.74% - 28.24% Variable
Good Credit, Excellent Credit
If you’re a business owner, the United Business card offers excellent benefits for United flyers while charging a low annual fee. Read our full review of the United Business Card.
Earn up to 100,000 miles + 2,000 PQP
$150
19.74% - 28.24% Variable
Good Credit, Excellent Credit
If you’re a business owner, the United Business card offers excellent benefits for United flyers while charging a low annual fee. Read our full review of the United Business Card.
| Rate | Category |
|---|---|
| 11x | Earn 11x total miles on eligible United flights. |
| 5x | Earn 5x miles on all other eligible United® purchases. |
| 2x | Earn 2x miles on dining and all other travel. |
| 1x | Earn 1x mile on all other purchases. |
Earn up to 100,000 miles
$695
19.74% - 28.24% Variable
Excellent Credit
Only the United Club Card grants you complimentary United Club lounge membership, worth up to $750 per year. Although this card comes with a steep $695 annual fee, the lounge benefit alone can more than cover this annual cost. Not to mention the other ongoing perks of this card, from two free checked bags and up to $120 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA Precheck. For frequent United flyers, this card can provide tons of value each year. Read our full review of the United Club Card.
Earn up to 100,000 miles
$695
19.74% - 28.24% Variable
Excellent Credit
Only the United Club Card grants you complimentary United Club lounge membership, worth up to $750 per year. Although this card comes with a steep $695 annual fee, the lounge benefit alone can more than cover this annual cost. Not to mention the other ongoing perks of this card, from two free checked bags and up to $120 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA Precheck. For frequent United flyers, this card can provide tons of value each year. Read our full review of the United Club Card.
| Rate | Category |
|---|---|
| 5x | Earn 5x total miles on eligible United flights. |
| 2x | Earn 2x miles on all other eligible United® purchases. |
| 2x | Earn 2x miles at gas stations, and on local transit and commuting. |
| 1x | Earn 1x mile on all other purchases. |
Earn up to 50,000 miles
$0
19.74% - 28.24% Variable
Good Credit, Excellent Credit
If you’re looking for an entry point into earning United miles, the United Gateway Card is a solid option. The sign-up bonus is a bit more valuable than many no-annual-fee cards out there, and you’re getting a solid rewards structure. Read our full review of the United Gateway Card.
Earn up to 50,000 miles
$0
19.74% - 28.24% Variable
Good Credit, Excellent Credit
If you’re looking for an entry point into earning United miles, the United Gateway Card is a solid option. The sign-up bonus is a bit more valuable than many no-annual-fee cards out there, and you’re getting a solid rewards structure. Read our full review of the United Gateway Card.
| Rate | Category |
|---|---|
| 3X | Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year |
| 1X | Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases – with no limit to the amount you can earn |
Earn 100,000 bonus points
$95
17.74% - 26.74% Variable
670-850
Good, Excellent
The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card offers a lucrative intro bonus and earns points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card.
Earn 100,000 bonus points
$95
17.74% - 26.74% Variable
670-850
Good, Excellent
The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card offers a lucrative intro bonus and earns points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card.
| frequent travelers |
| 100,000 bonus points. |
| 1 - 8X points |
| $795 |
| at Chase's secure siteSee rates & fees |
| occasional United flyers |
| Earn up to 80,000 miles |
| 1 - 9X miles |
| $0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150 |
| at Chase's secure siteSee rates & fees |
| frequent United flyers |
| Earn up to 90,000 miles |
| 1 - 10X miles |
| $350 |
| at Chase's secure siteSee rates & fees |
| business travel rewards |
| Earn 200,000 bonus points 150,000 bonus points |
| 1 - 8X points |
| $795 |
| at Chase's secure siteSee rates & fees |
| United business travelers |
| Earn up to 100,000 miles + 2,000 PQP |
| 1 - 8X miles |
| $150 |
| at Chase's secure siteSee rates & fees |
| United Club access |
| Earn up to 100,000 miles |
| 1 - 11X miles |
| $695 |
| at Chase's secure siteSee rates & fees |
| entry-level benefits |
| Earn up to 50,000 miles |
| 1 - 5X miles |
| $0 |
| at Chase's secure siteSee rates & fees |
| high-spending businesses |
| Earn 100,000 bonus points |
| 1 - 3X points |
| $95 |
| at Chase's secure siteSee rates & fees |
Stephanie Stevens is an associate writer with TPG's credit cards team. She focuses on creating timely credit cards content for TPG readers.
Gabrielle Bernardini is the senior points and miles editor at TPG. Joining the team in 2023, she focuses on helping people utilize their credit card rewards to travel for less.
Gabrielle Bernardini is the senior points and miles editor at TPG. Joining the team in 2023, she focuses on helping people utilize their credit card rewards to travel for less.
Compliance associate Lakeisha Robinson has 12 years of compliance experience. She uses her credit card knowledge, passion for travel and general compliance rules to ensure that she and her team share the most accurate and compliant content with TPG readers.
