Best United Airlines credit cards of December 2025
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.
- United Quest℠ Card: Best for frequent United flyers
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best for flexible travel rewards
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for frequent travelers
- United℠ Business Card: Best for United business travelers
- United℠ Explorer Card: Best for occasional United flyers
- United Club℠ Card: Best for United Club access
- The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for business owners who prioritize premium travel perks
- United Gateway℠ Card: Best for entry-level benefits
- American Express Platinum Card®: Best for premium travel perks and digital entertainment
Comparing the best United credit cards
at Chase's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 3x | 3x miles on United® purchases. |
| 2x | 2x miles on dining, select streaming services & all other travel. |
| 1x | 1x mile on all other purchases. |
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.
Pros
- Receive up to $200 in travel credits each account anniversary year as reimbursement for United purchases
- Free first and second checked bags
- Up to $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit
Cons
- $350 annual fee
- No lounge access benefits
- Earn 70,000 bonus miles and 1,000 PQP
- 3x miles on United® purchases
- 2x miles on dining, select streaming services, and all other travel
- 1x mile on all other purchases
- Get a jump start on earning Premier status with 1,000 Card Bonus PQP each year, awarded within 8 weeks of February 1, starting in the calendar year following your account open date.
- Free first and second checked bags--a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply)
- Receive a $200 United® travel credit and 10,000-mile award flight discount on each account anniversary
- Earn a 10,000-mile eligible award flight discount after spending $20,000 each calendar year
- Member FDIC
at Chase's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 5x | Earn 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠. |
| 3x | Earn 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries. |
| 2x | Earn 2x on all other travel purchases. |
| 1x | Earn 1x on all other purchases. |
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit cards on the market. Offering an excellent return on travel and dining purchases, the card packs a ton of value that easily offsets its $95 annual fee. Cardholders can redeem points for Chase Travel bookings or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 valuable airline and hotel partners. Read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.
Pros
- You’ll earn 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar dining including eligible delivery services and takeout
- Premium travel protection benefits including trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance and lost luggage insurance
Cons
- The card comes with a $95 annual fee
- Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
- Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
- 10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
- Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
- Member FDIC
at Chase's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 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. |
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 $2,700 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.
Pros
- Automatic $300 annual travel credit each account anniversary year
- Earn 8 points per dollar spent on Chase Travel purchases and 4 points per dollar spent on flights and hotels booked direct
- Over $2,700 in total annual cardmember value, including credits for StubHub, Apple Music, Apple TV+ and DoorDash
- $300 annual dining credit (split up as two semiannual $150 credits) for Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables restaurants
- Access to Chase’s 14 hotel and airline travel partners
- No foreign transaction fees
- Complimentary IHG Platinum Elite status (through Dec. 31, 2027)
Cons
- Steep $795 annual fee, plus a $195 fee per authorized user
- Some credits are split biannually, requiring careful tracking to maximize value
- Some credits require enrollment or specific platforms, which may make it more difficult to maximize value
- May not be a good fit for those who don’t spend heavily on travel or select lifestyle categories
- Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
- Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
- $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
- Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck® every 4 years
- Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
- Get complimentary Apple TV+, the exclusive streaming home of Apple Originals. Plus Apple Music — all the music you love, across all your devices. Subscriptions run through 6/22/27 — a value of $250 annually
- Member FDIC
at Chase's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 2x | 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, at gas stations, office supply stores and on local transit and commuting. |
| 1x | 1x mile on all other purchases. |
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.
Pros
- Earn 2 MileagePlus miles per dollar on United Airlines purchases, dining, gas stations, office supply stores and on local transit and commuting and 1 mile per dollar on everything else
- First checked bag free for you and one companion on your reservation
- Two United Club one-time passes when the cardholder or authorized user is traveling each cardmember anniversary
- Travel protections including primary rental car insurance and trip cancellation/interruption insurance
Cons
- Only provides lounge access twice per card member year
- Earn 75,000 bonus miles and 2,000 PQP after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
- $0 Intro annual fee for the first year, then $150 Annual Fee.
- 2x miles on United® purchases, dining including eligible delivery services, at gas stations, office supply stores, and on local transit and commuting.
- 1x mile on all other purchases. Plus, employee cards at no additional cost - miles earned from their purchases accrue in your account so you can earn rewards faster.
- Receive a 5,000-mile "better together" bonus each anniversary when you have both the United℠ Business Card and a personal Chase United® credit card.
- Enjoy a free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip (terms apply), 2 United Club℠ one-time passes per year, and priority boarding privileges.
- Receive a $125 United travel credit after making 5 United® flight purchases of $100 or more each calendar year with your United℠ Business Card.
- Member FDIC
at Chase's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 2x | 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel. |
| 1x | 1x mile on all other purchases. |
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.
Pros
- First checked bag free for you and a companion on United flights
- Two, one-time United Club passes when the cardholder or authorized user is traveling each year of card membership
- Up to $120 credit every four years for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck
- Elite status shortcut
- Trip cancellation, trip delay and baggage insurance
Cons
- Miles redemption limited to United and Star Alliance partners
- Only provides lounge access two times
- Earn 60,000 bonus miles
- $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
- 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel
- Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
- Priority boarding on United® flights
- 2 United Club one-time passes per year - over a $100 value
- Over $500 in partner credits each year
- Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
- Member FDIC
at Chase's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 4x | 4x miles on United® purchases |
| 2x | 2x miles on dining and all other travel |
| 1x | 1x mile on all other purchases |
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.
Pros
- Earn 4 miles per dollar on United purchases; 2 miles per dollar on travel and dining; 1 mile per dollar on everything else
- United Club℠ membership for you and your eligible travel companions at all United Club locations and participating Star Alliance lounges worldwide
- Up to $120 statement credit for Global Entry/TSA Precheck application every four years
- Free first and second checked bags for you and one travel companion on the same reservation
- 25% inflight purchase statement credit
Cons
- High $695 annual fee
- Earn 90,000 bonus miles
- 4x miles on United® purchases
- 2x miles on dining and all other travel
- 1x mile on all other purchases
- United Club℠ card membership - at least a $750 value
- Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply)
- Premier Access® travel services
- Earn up to 20,000-miles in award flight discounts annually
- Member FDIC
Best for business owners who prioritize premium travel perks
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 5X | Earn 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X points on purchases at U.S. construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus. |
| 1X | Earn 1X points on other eligible purchases. |
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express continues its long-standing streak as one of the most valuable cards on the market for frequent business travelers. The Amex Business Platinum card offers perks like automatic Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy Gold elite status (enrollment required) and statement credits that can be used toward business-specific purchases.
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- Offers easy to use business-specific statement credits
- Earns valuable and transferable Membership Rewards points
Cons
- $895 annual fee
- Elevated Welcome Offer: Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
- The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,550 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card company on the market as of 07/2025.
- See how you can unlock over $3,500 in business and travel value annually after meeting qualifying spend thresholds on the Business Platinum Card. Terms apply.
- New! Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using the Business Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- No Preset Spending Limit: The spending limit on the Business Platinum Card is flexible, so unlike a traditional credit card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment and credit history.
- Make the Business Platinum Card® work even harder for you. Hilton For Business members get up to $200 back per calendar year when you make an eligible purchase at Hilton properties across the globe. Benefit enrollment required.
- Fly like a pro with a $200 Airline Fee Credit. Select one qualifying airline to receive up to $200 back per year on baggage fees and other incidentals.
- Use the Business Platinum Card and get up to $209 back per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal).
- Maximize your time away with Fine Hotels + Resorts through Amex Travel™.
- New! Enroll and get up to $150 in statement credits on U.S purchases directly with Dell Technologies on the Business Platinum Card and an additional $1,000 statement credit after you spend $5,000 or more on that same Card per calendar year.
- New! Enroll and get a $250 statement credit after you spend $600 or more on U.S. purchases directly with Adobe per calendar year on the Business Platinum Card.
- Get up to $90 in statement credits quarterly for purchases with Indeed on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $360 back per year. Enrollment required.
- Get up to $10 in statement credits per month for wireless telephone service purchases made directly with a wireless provider in the U.S. on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $120 back per year. Enrollment required.
- Enhanced! 2X points on purchases at U.S. construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
- 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com
- 1X points on other eligible purchases
- $895 Annual Fee.
- Terms Apply.
at Chase's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 2x | 2x miles on United® purchases, at gas stations, and on local transit and commuting. |
| 1x | 1x mile on all other purchases. |
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.
Pros
- No annual fee
- 2 miles per dollar on United purchases, gas stations, local transit and commuting and 1 mile per dollar on everything else
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Other United cards offer better value and perks if you fly the carrier often
- Earn 30,000 bonus miles
- 0% intro APR for the first 12 months from account opening on purchases & no annual fee.
- 2x miles on United® purchases
- 2x miles at gas stations, on local transit and commuting
- 1x mile on all other purchases
- 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Gateway Card
- Earn 2 checked bags after you spend $10,000 in a calendar year
- Member FDIC
Best for premium travel perks and digital entertainment
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 5X | Earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. |
The American Express Platinum Card® has a high annual fee but remains one of the best cards on the market for those who prioritize premium travel experiences. A combination of updated and new statement credits makes the refreshed Amex Platinum an ideal card for frequent travelers and digital entertainment enthusiasts alike.
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- Up to $600 hotel credit (disbursed as up to $300 in statement credits semiannually; enrollment required)
- Up to $300 digital entertainment credit (disbursed as up to $25 in statement credits per month; enrollment required)
- Earns transferable Membership Rewards points
Cons
- $895 annual fee
- You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
- More Value! With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges. * As of 07/2025.
- More Value! $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
- More Value! $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $25 in statement credits each month after you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card® at participating partners. Enrollment required.
- More Value! $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel® using the Platinum Card®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- New! $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: When you use the Platinum Card® to pay at U.S. Resy restaurants and to make other eligible purchases through Resy, you can get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter with the $400 Resy Credit benefit. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you, enrollment required.
- More Value! $209 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR Plus Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR Plus with the Platinum Card®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card® Account*. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
- Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts® through American Express Travel®, enjoy noon check-in upon arrival, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
- New! $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
- $155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card®. *Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
- $100 Saks Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue or saks.com on the Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits from January through June and up to $50 in statement credits from July through December. No minimum purchase required. Enrollment required.
- Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
- $895 annual fee.
- Terms Apply.
- See Rates & Fees
Comparing the best United credit cards
Credit card | Best for | Intro offer | Earning rate | Annual fee | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
at Chase's secure site | frequent United flyers | Earn 70,000 bonus miles Open Intro bonus Earn 70,000 bonus miles and 1,000 Premier qualifying points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. | 1 - 3X miles Open Rewards rates
| $350 | ||||||||
New offer at Chase's secure site | flexible travel rewards | 75,000 bonus points Open Intro bonus Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. 60,000 bonus points | 1 - 5X points Open Rewards rates
| $95 | ||||||||
at Chase's secure site | frequent travelers | 125,000 bonus points Open Intro bonus Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | 1 - 8X points Open Rewards rates
| $795 | ||||||||
at Chase's secure site | United business travelers | Earn 75,000 bonus miles Open Intro bonus Earn 75,000 bonus miles and 2,000 PQP after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. | 1 - 2X miles Open Rewards rates
| $0 Intro annual fee for the first year, then $150 Annual Fee. | ||||||||
at Chase's secure site | occasional United flyers | Earn 60,000 bonus miles Open Intro bonus Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. | 1 - 2X miles Open Rewards rates
| $0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150 | ||||||||
at Chase's secure site | United Club access | Earn 90,000 bonus miles Open Intro bonus Earn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | 1 - 4X miles Open Rewards rates
| $695 | ||||||||
Elevated welcome offer at American Express's secure site | business owners who prioritize premium travel perks | Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards® points Open Intro bonus Elevated Welcome Offer: Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership. | 1 - 5X points Open Rewards rates
| $895 | ||||||||
at Chase's secure site | entry-level benefits | Earn 30,000 bonus miles Open Intro bonus Earn 30,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. Learn more. | 1 - 2X miles Open Rewards rates
| $0 | ||||||||
+ New benefits at American Express's secure site | premium travel perks and digital entertainment | As High As 175,000 points. Find Out Your Offer. Open Intro bonus You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. | 5X points Open Rewards rates
| $895 |
More details on the best United credit cards
The United Quest Card is an excellent choice for a mid-tier United card, offering substantial value that more than justifies its annual fee. The card’s annual $200 credit for United purchases makes up for more than half its annual fee, and you can save on award flight redemptions thanks to a 10,000-mile anniversary award flight credit when you redeem for flights on United or United Express. Plus, you can earn another 10,000-mile flight credit after spending $20,000 on purchases in a calendar year. Additionally, you can enjoy baggage perks, priority boarding and a generous PQP maximum, making it a highly rewarding option for a mid-tier travel card.
The United Quest Card is an excellent choice for folks who already fly United frequently but can still take advantage of benefits like a first and second checked bag free for you and a companion on the same reservation, priority boarding and a discount on inflight food, drink and Wi-Fi purchases.
“For United flyers who aren’t concerned about accessing the United Club, the Quest provides the perfect benefits for a card with its annual fee. The $200 annual travel credit on United purchases is effectively cash back for United flyers.”— Kyle Olsen, former points and miles reporter
For an even lower annual fee, the United℠ Explorer Card offers priority boarding and one complimentary checked bag for you and a companion on the same reservation. Plus, with the Explorer card, you’ll earn miles on everyday purchases.
Since you can accumulate valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points with every purchase, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is consistently one of our top picks for travel rewards cards. You can earn 5 points per dollar spent on travel booked through the Chase Travel portal, 3 points per dollar on dining and online groceries, and 2 points per dollar on other travel expenses.
If you travel at least a couple of times each year, fly various airlines besides United, seek added insurance coverage for your travel bookings and wish to earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points on your purchases, this card is certainly worth considering despite its annual fee. Moreover, you can transfer your Chase Ultimate Rewards points to United MileagePlus.
“The Chase Sapphire Preferred has remained a top card in my wallet for years. Between the consistently strong sign-up bonus, low annual fee and continual improvements that have been made over the years, it's hard for any other mid-tier rewards card to compare. I love that I can earn bonus rewards on travel, dining, streaming and online grocery purchases — all with just one card. Plus, Chase Ultimate Rewards points are valuable and easy to use whether you're new to points and miles or an expert.” — Madison Blancaflor, senior content operations editor
If you’re a United loyalist that is looking for a card with airline-specific perks and a moderate annual fee, consider the United℠ Explorer Card. The intro annual fee is $0 for the first year, then $150 and comes with a TSA PreCheck/Global Entry fee credit, two annual lounge visits when the cardholder or authorized user is traveling and a free checked bag for you and a companion on the same United reservation.
The Sapphire Reserve offers exceptional value for frequent travelers through generous rewards on travel spending, flexible point transfers and over $2,700 in potential annual perks.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is best suited for travelers who can take full advantage of its elevated earning rates, statement credits and wide range of luxury benefits.
If you regularly spend on travel and lifestyle purchases, and want a premium reward card that delivers both luxury benefits and long-term value, the Sapphire Reserve is a card you should consider.
Though it has fewer perks, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers a lower annual fee, reliable travel protections, a minimum of 2 points per dollar on all travel purchases and the opportunity to accumulate valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points.
The United Business Card is an excellent choice if you occasionally travel for work. For a reasonable $150 annual fee ($0 intro annual fee for the first year), you can earn bonus miles on United purchases, dining, gas, office supply stores, local transit and commuting. Moreover, by making more than five United flight-related travel purchases of $100 or more each calendar year, you'll receive a $125 statement credit. Additionally, if you also have one of United's personal credit cards, you can earn 5,000 bonus miles annually.
This card is the ideal choice for individuals seeking a business card and who fly with United regularly without reaching elite status. It provides exclusive benefits tailored to the airline, such as complimentary checked bags, priority boarding, and a 25% discount on inflight Wi-Fi, food and beverages.
“This card allows business owners to earn United miles on business purchases with a nominal annual fee. If you manage to have at least five United flight-related travel purchases of $100 or more each calendar year, you’ll get a $125 statement credit, which effectively lowers this card’s annual fee.” — Kyle Olsen, former points and miles reporter
Though it’s not a business card, if you want more Premier qualifying points and United Airlines perks, it’s worth looking into the United Quest℠ Card. This card offers a $200 United travel credit annually and 3 miles per dollar on United purchases, in addition to other perks.
The United Explorer Card is geared toward both frequent and occasional United flyers and offers plenty of benefits, such as a free checked bag for you and a companion on the same reservation, priority boarding, two annual one-time United Club passes (redeemable by the cardholder or authorized user) and a discount on in-flight purchases. It also earns bonus miles on various purchases, including dining and hotels, putting your next award ticket within reach sooner.
If you’re a casual United flyer and want to earn valuable cost-saving perks like a complimentary checked bag (worth $40 on domestic flights) and two one-time United Club passes (worth $59 per entry), you’ll easily get your money’s worth from this card’s $150 annual fee, $0 intro annual fee for the first year.
“The United Explorer Card offers an array of perks that will enhance your travel experiences on United, even if you only fly with United occasionally. With benefits like a TSA PreCheck/Global Entry fee credit, two annual United Club one-time passes and a complimentary checked bag, this card is packed with valuable perks that help you get your money’s worth year after year.” — Kyle Olsen, former points and miles reporter
If you want to earn more Premier qualifying points and don’t value the two United Club one-time passes that highly, we recommend the United Quest℠ Card. This card offers a $200 United purchase credit annually and 3 miles per dollar on United purchases, in addition to other perks.
The United Club Card’s notable perks include a membership to the United Club (worth up to $750 every year), IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status (worth $1,290), and complimentary first and second checked bags for you and one travel companion on the same reservation. Cardmembers can also count on other day-of-travel perks such as Premier Access for priority service at the airport, free checked bags and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit worth up to $120 once every four years.
Though the United Club Card has a high annual fee, it comes with premium perks that can make this card worthwhile for frequent United flyers.
“While I’m not the most die-hard United Club fan, I use this card to help earn PQPs to qualify for United status, which gives me perks like PlusPoints for international upgrades and Economy Plus seating. I also appreciate having instant, upper-tier IHG One Rewards status with no stay activity to retain my status. And if you don’t have United status, the card’s benefits that are usually reserved for the airline’s elite members, like free checked bags, priority boarding and priority services at the airport, all contribute to the card’s overall value proposition.” — Kyle Olsen, former points and miles reporter
The United Quest℠ Card has a lower annual fee and allows you to earn United Airlines miles. While it does not provide United Club access, it does offer priority boarding and the convenience of a first checked bag free on United Airlines itineraries.
Business owners get to take advantage of solid travel perks but also business-specific perks such as an up to $120 wireless telephone service statement credit (up to $10 per month) for wireless telephone service purchases made directly with a wireless provider in the U.S. Enrollment required.
Business travelers who can take advantage of this card’s statement credits and would benefit from perks like lounge access and hotel elite status.
If you’re often on the go for work trips, this Amex Business Platinum card is a solid choice. It’s packed with travel-related statement credits and benefits in addition to offering business-specific perks that are pretty straightforward to use.
If you’re in the market for a premium business card but don’t want to commit to the Amex Business Platinum, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠. Like its consumer counterpart, the Sapphire Reserve for Business earns valuable Ultimate Rewards points and also offers business-related statement credits and perks.
Despite being United’s entry-level card, the Gateway card offers the ability to earn 2 miles per dollar on United purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting with no annual fee. The card also offers no foreign transaction fees.
This is a great starter card to earn United miles on everyday purchases to eventually redeem for an award flight.
“The Gateway card has no annual fee, no foreign transaction fees and lets you earn a modest number of United miles on your purchases. That’s a trifecta for beginners.” — Kyle Olsen, former points and miles reporter
For a $150 annual fee ($0 intro annual fee for the first year), the United℠ Explorer Card offers priority boarding and one complimentary checked bag for you and a companion on the same reservation. Plus, with the Explorer card, you’ll be able to earn more miles.
The American Express Platinum Card® is a great travel companion thanks to perks like no foreign transaction fees and enhancements like a generous up to $600 hotel credit (disbursed as up to $300 in statement credits biannually). Now, it also features more lifestyle credits that cardmembers can take advantage of to help offset its hefty annual fee. Enrollment required.
Frequent travelers and digital entertainment subscribers will enjoy travel perks like lounge access and an up to $209 Clear Plus statement credit in addition to an up to $300 digital entertainment credit (disbursed as up to $25 per month in statement credits). Enrollment may be required and you may be subject to auto-renewal.
Adding this card to your rotation makes sense if you can use its perks and statement credits to offset its $895 annual fee.
If you want a premium travel and lifestyle card that’s not nearly $900, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. It features a $795 annual fee — which is still a big figure — but offers several similar perks and credits that offset this fee, and it earns transferable Ultimate Rewards points, one of the most valuable reward currencies on the market.
How we rate
Is United the best US airline in 2024?
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.
Ask our experts
What's your favorite United credit card — and why?
What are the benefits of having a United Airlines credit card?
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.
How to choose the best 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.1Sign-up bonus
- Those seeking premium value from a United card will find tons of value in the options that have higher annual fees.2Annual fee
- 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.3Bonus categories
Pros + cons of United credit cards
Pros
- United credit cards can earn MileagePlus miles on every dollar you spend
- Some United credit cards offer shortcuts to MileagePlus Premier status and expanded award availability
- Many United credit cards provide purchase, theft and fraud protection
- Select United credit cards provide perks like travel insurance, lounge access, statement credits and more
Cons
- You may not fly with United enough to make a United credit card worthwhile
How to apply for a United Airlines credit card
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:
Frequently asked questions
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: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $150 per year thereafter
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.