Easy Delta elite status boost

6
a room with chairs and a chandelier
Pictured above is the Delta SkyClub at Washington National airport (DCA).  The Delta Reserve credit card gives you access to the club when flying Delta same-day.

Airline elite status is great to have if you can get it easily.  With elite status you can get free checked bags, free premium seat selection, reduced change fees, chances for first class upgrades, and much more.  The higher your level of elite status, the more perks you get.

Delta knows that their SkyMiles members love elite status and so they send end of year offers to members who are short of reaching the next level of status.  These offers are always terrible deals.  In almost every case, Delta will charge you far more to reach the next level of status than the value you’ll get.

Rather than pay Delta to reach the next level of status, some people mileage run.  A mileage run is where you book a flight just to reach your elite status goals.  This can be much cheaper than paying for Delta’s status boost, but you do have to actually fly the route in order to earn the elite qualifying dollars and miles.  Not everyone enjoys or has the time to fly just for status.  And if you’re doing this near the end of the year, you’re likely to find higher ticket prices and maybe bad flying weather.  For Delta fans, there’s a better alternative, but first some background…

Delta Elite Status Requirements

Delta Elite Status

Definitions:

  • MQMs: Medallion Qualifying Miles can be roughly thought of as the actual miles flown. It’s important to understand that these are different from redeemable miles which can be used to book award flights. MQMs are only used for earning elite status.
  • MQSs: Medallion Qualifying Segments are the number of segments flown. Unless you fly a very large number of short flights, you are unlikely to earn elite status through MQSs.
  • MQDs: Medallion Qualifying Dollars are the sum total of your spend on Delta-marketed flights.

Explanation:

In general, to reach each elite tier, Delta SkyMiles members must earn the stated number of MQMs or MQSs and spend the targeted amount of MQDs. In other words, its not enough to just fly far or often, you also need to spend a lot of money with Delta.

Fortunately, there’s an easy exception to the MQD requirement for Platinum status and below: Simply spend $25,000 or more with Delta credit cards and the MQD requirement goes away (Starting Jan 30 2020, you must be a Delta Platinum or Delta Reserve cardholder, but the spend can be across any Delta cards). Even better, several Delta branded credit cards offer bonus MQMs for high spend, so it is possible to tackle both requirements (MQMs and MQDs) through spend without setting foot on a plane. Unfortunately, Delta requires $250,000 in credit card spend (across all Delta cards you have) to get a MQD waiver for top tier Diamond status.

Rollovers

Most airlines require that you fully re-earn status every calendar year. Delta is mostly that way too, but with one exception: if you earn elite status in a calendar year, any MQMs not used to reach status are rolled over to the next year.  For example, if you earn 70,000 MQMs and meet Gold MQD requirements, you’ll earn Gold status (at 50,000 MQMs), and 20,000 MQMs will be rolled over to the next year to give you a jump start towards re-qualifying.

Elite Benefits

Delta’s chart of elite benefits can be found here. Here’s a summarized chart I created:

a table with a list of flights

The elite benefits I’ve personally found to be most valuable are:

  • Unlimited complimentary upgrades (when available, upgrade from coach to first class on domestic flights). Higher status leads to better chance of upgrades.
  • Waived same-day confirmed fees and waived same-day standby fees (switch to different flight on same day as ticketed flight). Requires Gold or higher.
  • Complementary Comfort+ seats (more leg room, free drinks, better snacks).
  • Free award changes and cancellations. This is huge because it lets me book awards when I see availability even if I’m not sure I’ll take that particular flight. Requires Platinum or higher.
  • Regional upgrade certificates. Puts you to the front of the line for regional upgrades. This is great to use for flights where upgrades are most important to you. For example, I use these for flights of about 4 hours or longer. This is a choice benefit for Platinum and Diamond status.
  • Global upgrade certificates. Use these to upgrade from coach to business class on any international flight when upgrade space is available. In many cases the upgrade space won’t be available at the time of booking, but you can then waitlist for the upgrade. My wife and I have had nearly 100% success in upgrading this way, but we’ve been very lucky: most of our upgraded flights have been between the US and Europe where upgrades are much easier to score than with longer distance flights (such as to Asia, South Africa, or Australia). This is a choice benefit for Diamond status only.

Delta credit card status boosts

Delta is the only major carrier in the US that lets you earn elite status entirely from credit cards.  There are two ways to earn status boosts from Delta credit cards: welcome bonus offers and big-spend bonuses.  There are four Delta branded credit cards from American Express that offer the ability to earn status boosts: personal and business Delta Platinum cards, and personal and business Delta Reserve cards.

Welcome bonus offers

At the time of this writing, each of the Platinum and Reserve cards offer 5K or 10K bonus MQMs as part of their welcome bonus.  Note that having one of these cards doesn’t stop you from getting a different one.  It’s theoretically possible to get all four.  Here are the current best public offers:

Card Offer

$550 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
$450 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Not accepting applications
This card is not currently available.
$400 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
$495 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None (call to apply) ⓘ Non-Affiliate
This card does not currently have a welcome offer
$495 Annual Fee
Bonus offer is not available to either current or previous UBS credit cardmembers
None (call to apply) ⓘ Non-Affiliate
This card does not currently have a welcome offer
$550 Annual Fee
Bonus offer is not available to either current or previous UBS credit cardmembers. Note: UBS Business cards DO add to Chase's 5/24 Rule.
10K miles
10K miles after $5K spend in first 3 billing cycles with promo code SPG2020
$70 Annual Fee
Note: Basic card earns 1 mile per $2 spent and has a $20 annual fee. To earn 1 mile per $1 spent, choose the "Premium" rewards for $70 annual fee.
30K miles
30K after $3K spend in 90 days
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None (call to apply) ⓘ Non-Affiliate
This card does not currently have a welcome offer
$150 Annual Fee
Bonus offer is not available to either current or previous UBS credit cardmembers. Note: UBS Business cards DO add to Chase's 5/24 Rule.
None
$85 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
Card is currently not available to new applicants.
$90 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Earn a $200 statement credit after each $10,000 you spend on the card, up to $30,000, in the first 3 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply. (Rates & Fees)
$250 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Not currently available
It appears that this card is not available at this time.
$95 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Expired 2/6/23: 80K miles + a $95 statement credit after $2K spend in first 90 days.

$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
$95 Annual Fee
This card is no longer available to new applicants.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Not currently accepting new applications.
$89 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
$85 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
10K miles
10K after after first purchase
$80 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
$49 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available to new applicants
$59 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
No Welcome Bonus ⓘ Non-Affiliate

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
Note that the card is only currently available with an M1 Plus membership (membership is free the first year, then $125 per year). The credit card's $95 annual fee is waived with an M1 Plus membership. Note also that the fine print says that the bonus will be paid out within 120 days of the end of the intro offer period. This means the welcome offer could be paid out as late as July 29, 2022.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card is no longer available for new applications

$49 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card is no longer available for new applications

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card no longer features a first-year bonus.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: None
This card is no longer available for new applications

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card is no longer available for new applications

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card is no longer available for new applications

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $89
Recent better offer: None. This is the best we've seen.
This card is no longer available for new applications

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
This card is no longer available
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available for new applicants.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is not currently available
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is currently unavailable for new applications
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card is currently unavailable for new applications
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
0% Intro APR for 18 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.24% - 28.999%.
No Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details). Even though this card is marketed as a cash back card, it actually earns Ultimate Rewards points which are redeemable for 1 cent each, or can be combined with other Ultimate Rewards-earning cards to get even more value. This product is available to you if you do not have this card and have not received a new cardmember bonus for this card in the past 24 months.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is currently unavailable for new applications
No Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Free DashPass ⓘ Non-Affiliate
Receive 12 months of DashPass for free upon approval
No Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
This card is available in-branch only and is not available online. The bonus may vary by region and can be as high as 40K.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
None
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
No Welcome Bonus ⓘ Non-Affiliate

No Annual Fee
Requires Costco membership. Cash back provided annually with February billing statement as rewards coupon redeemable for cash or merchandise at Costco

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Waitlist only ⓘ Non-Affiliate
This card is currently available by waitlist only
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
No standard bonus ⓘ Friend-Referral
This card is currently unavailable to new applicants.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is currently unavailable to new applicants.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
There is currently no welcome bonus offered.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
No Welcome Bonus ⓘ Non-Affiliate
This card currently features no welcome offer, but it does offer 5% back on up to $10K in purchases per year at Simon Malls, Simon Mills, and Simon Premium Outlets.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
0% introductory APR for the first 12 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers after account is opened. After that, a variable rate will apply.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
0% APR on balance transfers ⓘ Non-Affiliate
0% APR on balance transfers for first 12 billing cycles following account opening when balance is transferred within the first 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
3% back for 12 months ⓘ Non-Affiliate
3% cash back for 12 months on up to $20K in purchases
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
There is currently no welcome bonus offered.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
No Annual Fee
After $10K in purchases in the elevated categories each anniversary year, you only earn 1% back (or 2% through the end of 2021). Note that you can only apply in the Venmo app.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
No Welcome Bonus ⓘ Non-Affiliate

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
No Welcome Bonus ⓘ Non-Affiliate

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None (call to apply) ⓘ Non-Affiliate
This card does not currently have a welcome offer
No Annual Fee
Bonus offer is not available to either current or previous UBS credit cardmembers
None (call to apply) ⓘ Non-Affiliate
This card does not currently have a welcome offer
No Annual Fee
Bonus offer is not available to either current or previous UBS credit cardmembers. Note: UBS Business cards DO add to Chase's 5/24 Rule.
None
This card is no longer available
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $55
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $49
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Currently no welcome offer
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
20K miles
20K miles after first use.
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $75
US Bank may also approve you for their non-Signature Visa which comes with a 15K bonus and lesser benefits.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
None
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
none
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
There is no official welcome bonus, but this card offers the opportunity to earn 1x points on rent when you make at least 5 transactions per billing cycle. Terms apply.
No Annual Fee
Note that some people see a targeted offer in the Bilt Rewards app to earn 5x points for the first 5 days after being approved and receiving and activating the card. This is not guaranteed, but rather is targeted. Select 'Click Here to Apply' to learn more about the product features, terms and conditions.
15K Points ⓘ Affiliate
15K points after $1,500 spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
$75 statement credit after spending $1,500 within the first three months
No Annual Fee
Requires Costco membership. Cash back provided annually with February billing statement as rewards coupon redeemable for cash or merchandise at Costco
No bonus at this time.
$400 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
none
This card is no longer available
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$100 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$100 statement credit after $2000 spend in first 3 months
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
10K points + 10K Tier Credits ⓘ Non-Affiliate
10K points + 10K Tier Credits after $1,500K spend in the first 3 billing cycles
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$150 cash back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$150 cash back after $3K spend in first 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$100 Amazon Gift Card
Earn up to a $100 Amazon gift card instantly upon approval. Log in to your Amazon account to see what offer you qualify for. Note that you may be offered the Amazon Prime Visa if you are a Prime member.
No Annual Fee
$100 Cash Back
$100 after $500 spend in 3 months
No Annual Fee
This card is believed to not be subject to Chase's 5/24 rule
Recent better offer: $200 after $500 spend in 3 months
$100 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$100 after $500 spend in first 3 months.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
10K miles ⓘ Affiliate
10K miles after $1000 spend in the first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
No Annual Fee
Note an unusual restriction: Welcome bonus not available if you've had another Delta consumer card in the past 90 days.
$100 Cash back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$100 cash back after $500 spend in the first 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: Expired 10/31/22: $150 after $500 in spend
$100 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$100 statement credit after $500 spend in first 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
15K points after $3K spend in first 3 months. Terms & limitations apply.
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$100 + First Year Double ⓘ Friend-Referral
Get $100 after first purchase. All "miles" earned in first 12 months will be doubled. This makes this a 3% cash back card for the first year.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$100 Back + First Year Double ⓘ Friend-Referral
Get $100 after first purchase. All cashback earned in first 12 months will be doubled including 5% earned in rotating categories.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
10K after $500 spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$125 Amazon Gift Card ⓘ Affiliate
Eligible Prime members get a $125 Amazon Gift Card upon approval. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
No Annual Fee
10K points after $1K spend in 90 days.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$50 + First Year Double + $20/year ⓘ Friend-Referral
Get $50 after first purchase. All cashback earned in first 12 months will be doubled including 5% earned in rotating categories. Plus, get $20 cash back each school year your GPA is 3.0 or higher for up to the next 5 years.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card is no longer available for new applications ⓘ Friend-Referral
This card is not currently available for new applicants.
$95 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: Some people click through and find that they are targeted for an offer of 30K points after $2K spend in 3 months.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 30K after $2K in first 3 months
70K Miles ⓘ Affiliate
Earn 70K miles after $5K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$650 Annual Fee
$150 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$150 in rewards (15K points) after $1000 in purchases in first 120 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$150 Amazon Gift Card ⓘ Affiliate
$150 Amazon gift card upon approval. Terms apply.
No Annual Fee
Recent better offer: $200 Amazon gift card after first purchase (expired 12/5/24)
$200 cash back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
20K points (worth $200) after $3K spend in the first 60 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card is no longer available for new applications ⓘ Friend-Referral
This card is not currently available for new applicants.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
50K Miles + 1,000 PQP ⓘ Non-Affiliate
50K miles + 1,000 Premier Qualifying Points after $5K spend in first 3 months.
$450 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
25K points after $1,500 spend in the first 3 billing cycles
$69 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
80K miles ⓘ Affiliate
80k after $10K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$650 Annual Fee
5K Points + $150 statement credit ⓘ Non-Affiliate
5K points after first purchases and 5K points after $500 spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card is no longer available for new applications ⓘ Friend-Referral
This card is not currently available for new applicants.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
25K after $1K in first 90 days
$59 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: You may be targeted for an offer including a $100 statement credit during a dummy booking.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$200 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$200 after $1000 spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$200 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$200 after $1000 spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$200 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$200 cashback after $1,000 spend within first 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
20K (worth $200 as a deposit into eligible account) after $1K spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
20K (worth $200 as a deposit into eligible account or towards travel) after $1K spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 50K after $2K spend in 120 days (Ended 9/9/24)
$200 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$200 back as a statement credit after $1000 spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$200 Cash Back as a statement credit ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$200 statement credit after $1K in purchases in first 3 months
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$200 cash bonus ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$200 cash rewards bonus after $1K spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
30K points after spending $1K in the first 3 months. Terms apply.
No Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Recent better offer: 60K points + Free Night Certificate after $2k spend (ended 11/25/24)
95K Points ⓘ Affiliate
95k points after $6K spend within the first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$650 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: (Expired 10/2/24) 185k points after $6K spend within the first 6 months.
$250 back ⓘ Affiliate
$250 cash back as reward dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or via Amazon.com after $3K spend in eligible purchases within the first 6 months. Terms Apply. (Rates & Fees)
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
$200 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$200 statement credit after $500 in purchases in first 3 months
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$200 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$200 in rewards (20K points) after $1K in purchases in first 3 billing cycles.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$200 back after $1K spend in 3 months
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$200 Cash Back ⓘ Affiliate
One time bonus: $200 after $500 spend in 3 months from account opening. (Rates & Fees)
No Annual Fee
$350 cash back as a statement credit after $3K in the first 6 months. Terms Apply. (Rates & Fees)
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
This card is not currently available for new applications

No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Up to $200 in statement credits ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$100 credit with 5G phone offer and $100 statement credit after first purchase
within 90 days of account opening.
No Annual Fee
$300 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$300 after $3000 spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
40K points after "qualifying spend" (we saw $1,500) in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$250 back + 0% APR for 12 months ⓘ Affiliate
$250 statement credit after $3k spend within first 3 months and 0% introductory APR on all eligible purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable rate, 17.74% - 25.74% depending on creditworthiness. (Rates & Fees)
No Annual Fee
35K after $3K spend in 90 days
$95 Annual Fee
Note that some have received a targeted email offer for 65K miles after $5K spend in 90 days.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
25K points worth $250 ⓘ Non-Affiliate
25K after $1K spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
15K points + 0% APR for 12 months ⓘ Affiliate
15k points after $3k spend within the first 3 months + 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 17.74% - 25.74%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening. (Rates & Fees)
No Annual Fee
$300 statement credit ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$300 statement credit after $3K spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$250 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
One time bonus: $250 after $500 spend in 3 months from account opening.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
75K miles after $7,500 spend in first 3 months
$595 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
30K after $3K spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
20K after $1,000 spend in first 3 months.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
85K Points ⓘ Affiliate
85K points after $5K spend in the first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$250 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: (Expired 10/2/24) 155K points after $5K spend in the first 6 months.
20K points after $1.5K spend in 3 months
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
20K points after $1500 spend in the first 6 months
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: Expired 9/13/22 - 20,000 points after $750 spend in first 3 months
No Welcome Bonus
This card is currently not available to new applicants.
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $85
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
40K points after $2K spend in 90 days
$89 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Up to 80K Avios + 150 Qpoints ⓘ Non-Affiliate
40K Avios after first transaction, then an additional 40K and 150 Qpoints after $5,000 spend within the first 90 days
$499 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
50K Points ⓘ Affiliate
50K points after $3K spend in 90 days
$95 Annual Fee
Up to $350 back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
Up to $350 back: $200 back after $2K in the first 6 months + 10% back at restaurants for the first 6 months up to $150 back. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
85K points after $4K spend in 3 months
$250 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
20K miles ⓘ Affiliate
Earn 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening. (Rates & Fees)
No Annual Fee
$200 cash back after spending $1.5K in first six months. Note: $200 is awarded as 20,000 ThankYou® Points.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Earn 20,000 points (worth $200 cash back) after spending $500 in the first 3 month
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Up to 30K points / $300 cash back ⓘ Affiliate
Earn an additional 1.5% on all purchases (up to $20K spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back.
No Annual Fee
This card is likely subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Recent better offer: Unlimited Double Cash Back for 12 month (expired 1/11/24)
12K points after $1K spend in the first 3 billing cycles
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$250 cash back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$250 after $2K spend in 120 days
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
40K miles after $4K spend within 90 days of account opening
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$400 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$400 statement credit after $1000 in purchases within first 3 months
$49 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
80K points after "qualifying spend" (we saw $3,000) in 90 days
$89 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Earn 40K bonus miles after $2.5K in first 90 days
$79 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
40K miles after $4K spend in 90 days
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
40K after $3K spend in 90 days + 2.5k for adding an authorised user (up to 4)
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Limited Time Offer: 30K Miles ⓘ Affiliate
30K miles after $1K spend in first 3 months
(Offer Expires 1/29/2025)
No Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Recent better offer: Expired 8/11/22: 30K after $1K spend
70K miles ⓘ Affiliate
70K after $6K spend in first 6 months. Terms and limitations apply. (Rates & Fees)
$350 Annual Fee
20K points after $1K spend in the first 3 billing cycles
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 30K points after $1K spend in the first 3 billing cycles + 2 companion certificates, 2 upgrade certificates and 2 lounge passes
45K points after $2K spend in first 6 months
(Offer Expires 1/8/2025)
No Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Expired 7/11/24: 75K after $2K in spend
Up to 80K Points ⓘ Non-Affiliate
Up to 80K points: 40K after after $4K spend in first 90 days + 40K after $15K spend in first 365 days
(Offer Expires 1/8/2025)
$95 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Expired 7/11/24: 100K after $15K in spend
50K points after $4K in 3 months
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
Note that the ongoing annual fee is $0 if you maintain an HSBC Premier checking account (which requires $5K per month in direct deposits to remain fee-free)
$500 statement credit ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$500 statement credit after $5K spend in 90 days
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
60K miles after $5K spend in 90 days
$450 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Earn a $750 bonus after you spend $6K in 3 months from account opening. (Rates & Fees)
100K points ⓘ Affiliate
100K points after $2K spend within the first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
(Offer Expires 1/8/2025)
No Annual Fee
After clicking through, be sure to choose the card you want on the landing page.
Recent better offer: (Expired 7/31/24) 70K points + free night certificate after $2K spend within the first 6 months.
$500 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$500 after $5,000 spend in first 3 months.
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
75K (worth $750 as a deposit into eligible account) after $10K spend in 120 days
$195 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
80K Points ⓘ Affiliate
80K points after $2K spend in 3 months
No Annual Fee
Recent better offer: 120K after $2K spend (expired 7/4/22)
50K miles after $5K in 90 days
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
60K (worth $600 as a deposit into eligible account or towards travel) after $6K spend in 180 days
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
Note that only spend on the Account Owner's card (not including purchases made on employee cards) counts toward minimum spending requirements.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Up to 60K Avios
30K Avios after first transaction, then an additional 30K after $3,000 spend within the first 90 days
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Earn 50K bonus miles after $3K in first 90 days
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
50K miles + Companion Fare ⓘ Non-Affiliate
50K miles + Companion Fare ($99 fare + taxes) after $3K spend in 3 months
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 70K after $4K in 3 months [Expired 4/23]
75K (worth up to $750) after $5K spend in 90 days
$550 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
60K points (worth up to $600) after $4K spend in 90 days
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Limited Time Offer: 90K Miles ⓘ Affiliate
90k miles after $5k spend in first 3 months
(Offer Expires 1/29/2025)
$525 Annual Fee
This card is available to you if you do not have any United Club card and have not received a new Cardmember bonus for any United Club card in the past 24 months.
Recent better offer: Expired 1/27/23: 100K after $5K spend
60K Points ⓘ Affiliate
60K after $4K spend in 3 months
$550 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Expired 12/1/22: 80K after $4K spend
50K miles ⓘ Affiliate
50K miles after $2K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
75K (worth $750 as a statement credit or deposit into eligible account) after $7500 spend in first 4 months
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
40K after $3K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply. See Rates & Fees
$150 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 60K after $3K spend in first 6 months + 20% off travel and transit purchases for first 6 months. [Expired 8/21/23]
50K miles after $2,500 spend in first 3 months
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 75K miles after $3,500 spend in 3 months (ended 10/14/24)
Up to 45K points ⓘ Non-Affiliate
30K points after $3K in spend within the first 3 months, plus an exta 1 point/dollar on up to $15K spend within first 6 months.
$95 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 5x Category 1-4 free night certificates after $15K spend within first 3 months. (Expired 10/31/24)
3 Free Night Awards, valued at up to 50K points each ⓘ Affiliate
Three 50k free night certificates after $6K spend in the first 6 months. Redemption level up to 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy(R) points for each bonus Free Night Award, at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy(R). Resort fees & terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$125 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: 5x50K free night certificates after $8K in spend (expired 10/16/24)
Up to 60K Miles ⓘ Non-Affiliate
Up to 60K miles: 50K bonus miles after spending $4K in first 90 days + additional 10K miles after a purchase is made on an employee card in the first 90 days
$99 Annual Fee
$750 Cash Back ⓘ Non-Affiliate
$750 cash back after $6000 spend on the account owner's card in first 150 days
No Annual Fee
Keep in mind that only spend on the Account Owner's card counts toward minimum spending requirements, spend on employee cards does not count.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
$750 Cash Back ⓘ Affiliate
Earn a $750 cash bonus when you spend $7,500 within the first 3 months.
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
50K after $4,500 spend in 3 months from account opening
No Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
60K points ⓘ Affiliate
60K points after $3K spend within first 3 months your account is open
$99 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
3x 50K Free Night Certificates ⓘ Non-Affiliate
Earn 3x 50K free night certificates after spending $3,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months.
$95 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Recent better offer: 5 x 50K free night certificates after $5K in spend (expired 1/9/24)
175K Points ⓘ Affiliate
175K after $8K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply.
(Offer Expires 1/8/2025)
$195 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: None
Limited Time Offer: 70K Miles + 500 PQPs ⓘ Affiliate
70K miles and 500 PQPs after $4K spend in the first 3 months
(Offer Expires 1/29/2025)
$250 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
$1,000 Cash Back ⓘ Affiliate
$1K after $10K Spend in 3 Months
$195 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: Some have been targeted for 150K after $10K spend via mailer or in the "Just for You" section of their online account.
50K Miles ⓘ Affiliate
Earn a one-time 50K miles bonus when you spend $4,500 in the first 3 months. (Rates & Fees)
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
60K after $4,000 spend in first 3 months.
$95 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
140K points ⓘ Affiliate
Earn 1400K points after $4K spend within the first 3 months.
$99 Annual Fee
This card is expected to be subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Recent better offer: 200K after $9k spend in 6 months (expired 11/9/24)
Limited Time Offer: 60k miles ⓘ Affiliate
60K miles after $3K spend in 3 months
(Offer Expires 1/29/2025)
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Recent better offer: Expired 8/11/22: 70K after $3K spend
140k points ⓘ Affiliate
Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
$99 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Recent better offer: Five 60K free night certificates after $4K spend in 3 months (expired 9/4/24)
165K points ⓘ Affiliate
165K points after $3K spend within the first 6 months. Terms apply.
(Offer Expires 1/8/2025)
$150 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: (Expired 7/31/24) 130K points + free night certificate after $3K spend within the first 6 months.
60K Points + $100 Voucher ⓘ Non-Affiliate
60K points plus $100 companion voucher after $1K spend in 90 days (enter any random five-digit number as "employee code")
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $79
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
60K points ⓘ Affiliate
60K after $5,000 spend in 3 months.
$199 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule.
40K points + $400 ⓘ Affiliate
40K points + a $400 statement credit after $3K spend in the first 4 months.
(Offer Expires 12/9/2024)
$149 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: Current public offer is 50K points after $1K spend in 3 months.
This card is known to be subject to Chase's 5/24 rule.
Up to 75K miles + Companion Fare ⓘ Non-Affiliate
70k miles + Companion Fare ($99 fare + taxes) after $3K spend in 90 days + additional 5K if you apply with an Alaska employee's name and id number.
$95 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: There are usually better in-flight offers available that require the name and id number of an Alaska employee.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
70K miles + 40XP + 60XP ⓘ Non-Affiliate
70K miles + 40 XP after $3K in the first 90 days + 60 XP upon approval
$89 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: Going through the steps to make a dummy booking at the Air France website may result in an offer that only gives 60K miles but also includes a $150 statement credit.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
70K miles after one purchase within first 90 days. Use code 000150 for this offer
$99 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
70K miles after 1st purchase and paying the annual fee within 90 days
$99 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Up to 75K: 60K miles after first purchase and 15K after adding an authorized user and making one purchase on that card [Expired 2/24/24]
40K points + $400 ⓘ Friend-Referral
40K points + a $400 statement credit after $3K spend in the first 4 months.
(Offer Expires 12/9/2024)
$99 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: Current public offer is 50K points after $1K spend in 3 months.
This card is known to be subject to Chase's 5/24 rule.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
80K after $8K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply.
$695 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 125K points after 6k spend [Expired 11/8/23]
80K points ⓘ Affiliate
80K points after $5K spend within first 3 months your account is open
$199 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
40K points + $400 ⓘ Affiliate
40K points + a $400 statement credit after $3K spend in the first 4 months.
(Offer Expires 12/9/2024)
$69 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: Current public offer is 50K points after $1K spend in 3 months.
After clicking through, be sure to manually select the exact Southwest card in which you are interested. This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Earn 100K Avios after $7.5K spend in 6 months
$95 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: Expired 7/4/22: 100K after $5K spend
Earn 100K Avios after $7.5K spend in 6 months
$95 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: Expired 7/4/22: 100K after $5K spend
Earn 100K Avios after $7.5K spend in 6 months
$95 Annual Fee
This card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: Expired 7/4/22: 100K after $5K spend
Up to 100K Points ⓘ Affiliate
75K points after $4K spend in the first 3 months and an additional 25K after spending a total fo $20K within first 12 months
$95 Annual Fee
This card is likely subject to Chase's 5/24 rule (click here for details).
Up to 120K miles ⓘ Non-Affiliate
Up to 120K miles: Earn 80K bonus miles after $4.5K spend in first 90 days + 40K miles after $25K total spend in first 12 months
$249 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
75K Miles ⓘ Affiliate
75K miles after $5K spend in first 3 months.
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99
After clicking through, be sure to click the link at the top that says, "Are you a small business owner?" to see the business card offers that include this card. You are not eligible for the bonus if you have received the bonus on this card within the past 24 months. Please note that the United EXPLORER Business card (no longer available) is a different product and does not affect your ability to get the bonus on this card.
75K miles after $5K spend in first 5 months
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99
Alternate Offer: There is an alternative offer of 30K + $400 credit that can be found when doing a dummy booking on aa.com.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
75K Miles ⓘ Affiliate
75k miles after $4k spend within first 3 months. (Rates & Fees)
$395 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Expired 3/14/22: 100K after $10K spend in 6 months + $200 credit for vacation rental spend in first year
80K miles after $1K in spend in 90 days and payment of annual fee.
$99 Annual Fee
Note that the landing page prompts you to enter a mobile phone number to continue the application, but you can click "no thanks" to continue the application on your desktop device.
60k miles ⓘ Affiliate
60K after $4K spend in first 6 months. Terms and limitations apply. (Rates & Fees)
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
Up to 100K miles ⓘ Non-Affiliate
Up to 100K miles: Earn 50K miles + $100 Frontier flight voucher after $500 in purchases in the first 90 days + instant Gold status with account opening & first purchae; maintain Gold status for 12 months with $3,000 in purchases within first 90 days. Plus, earn an additional 50,000 miles if you apply by 1/31/25, are approved, provide proof that you are the primary cardholder of a co-branded credit card with another US domestic airline, and complete $3,000 in purchases in the first 180 days. See here for more detail and go here to confirm eligibility for the additional 50,000 miles.
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99
90K points after $6K in purchases in the first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$325 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 100K after $6K in the first 6 months + 20% back at restaurants for the first 12 months up to $250 back [Expired 11/10/24 - referrals only]
75K Miles ⓘ Affiliate
75k miles after $4k spend within first 3 months. (Rates & Fees)
$95 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: Airport Kiosk offer of 80K miles after $4K spend in the first 3 months See this post for details.
Recent better offer: Expired 9/9/24: 75K after $4K spend in 3 months + $250 Capital One Travel credit in first cardholder year
60K Points ⓘ Affiliate
60K after $4K spend in 3 months
$95 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: There may be elevated offers available by applying in-branch
A similar offer with the first year annual fee waived may be found in-branch. YMMV.
Recent better offer: 60K points + $300 travel credit (Expired 11/14/24)
Up to 75K points ⓘ Affiliate
35K after $3K spend in 3 months and an additional 40K points after $6K spend in 6 months.
No Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: If you have a household member with an Ink card, you may prefer the referral offer whereby the referrer can earn 40,000 points and the new account holder can earn 75,000 points after $6,000 in purchases in the first 3 months since it will yield more total points.
Recent better offer: 90K after $6K spend in 6 monthd (expired 1/17/24
75K points ⓘ Affiliate
75K after $6K spend in 3 months
No Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: You may be able to get an offer of 120,000 points after $6,000 in purchases via a Business Relationship Manager.
175K Points + free night certificate ⓘ Friend-Referral
175K after $6K spend in first 6 months. Free night certificate every year - first certificate is awarded 8-12 weeks after approval. Terms apply.
(Offer Expires 1/8/2025)
$550 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Up to 125K points ⓘ Non-Affiliate
Up to 125K points: 120K points after $2K spend in 90 days plus 5K points for adding an authorized user within first 90 days
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $75
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
100K points + 10X on dining ⓘ Non-Affiliate
100K points after $8K spend in 6 months + 10x on dining for 6 months (on up to $25K in purchases). Terms apply.
$695 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
125K points ⓘ Non-Affiliate
125K after $8K spend in first 6 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$695 Annual Fee
This card is only available to clients that maintain an eligible Schwab brokerage account.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: 100K points + 10x when you Shop Small in the US & at restaurants worldwide [Expired 1/20/22]
$2,000+ Cash Back ⓘ Affiliate
Earn a $2K cash bonus when you spend $30K in the first 3 months + earn an additional $2K bonus for every $500K spent within the first year.. (Rates & Fees)
$150 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Expired 3/14/22: $3K after $50K spend in 6 months
150K Miles ⓘ Affiliate
Earn a one-time bonus of 150K miles after $30K spend in the first 3 months
$395 Annual Fee
Recent better offer: Expired 3/31/23: 250K Miles after $50K in spend.
200K points after $15K spend in 3 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$375 Annual Fee
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.
Recent better offer: None. This is the best we've ever seen.
250K points after $20K spend in the first 3 months. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
$695 Annual Fee
Alternate Offer: Targeted online offer of 250K points after $15K spend in the first 3 months See this post for details.
Information about this card has been collected independently by Frequent Miler. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.

Big spend bonuses

Each of the Delta Platinum and Delta Reserve cards offer the ability to earn MQMs (Medallion Qualifying Miles) as well as a MQD (Medallion Qualifying Dollars) waiver with high spend within the calendar year:

  • Delta Platinum and Delta Platinum Business:
    • Spend $25K, get 10K MQMs
    • Spend $50K, get another 10K MQMs
  • Delta Reserve and Delta Reserve Business:
    • Spend $30K, get 15K MQMs
    • Spend $60K, get another 15K MQMs
    • Spend $90K, get another 15K MQMs (this boost begins Jan 30 2020)
    • Spend $120K, get another 15K MQMs (this boost begins Jan 30 2020)
  • Earn MQD Waiver (e.g. waive the Delta spend requirement to reach elite status):
    • MQD Waiver for Silver through Platinum Elite Status: Spend $25K across one or more Delta Platinum and Delta Reserve cards
    • MQD Waiver for Diamond Elite Status: Spend $250K across one or more Delta Platinum and Delta Reserve cards

Easy Spend

Recently I posted “5 easy ways to increase credit card spend without going broke.”  Please see that post for details, but here’s a short version:

  1. Pay federal taxes.  Use your credit card for only 1.87% in fees.  If you over pay, this is a way of increasing credit card spend while giving the government a loan.  You’ll get back the excess after filing end of year taxes.   See our guide to paying taxes by credit card.
  2. Pay bills with Plastiq for 2.5% in fees.  See our complete guide to Plastiq credit card payments.
  3. Save for college or pay student loans with Gift of College gift cards.  You can buy these in-store for as little as 1.19% in fees.  For complete details see: Miles for College and Best options for buying Gift of College gift cards.
  4. Fund microloans with Kiva.  See: Increase Credit Card Spend (and do good) with Kiva and Kivalens.
  5. Organize events with friends.  Pay for group activities and have your friends pay you back for their share.

For the sake of argument, let’s say you decide to give the government a loan by overpaying taxes at 1.87% in fees.  In that case, here’s the cost to hit the various spend thresholds described above:

  • $3K (spend requirement to earn welcome bonus on some cards) at 1.87% in fees:  $59.10
  • $5K (spend requirement to earn welcome bonus on some cards) at 1.87% in fees:  $93.50
  • $25K (Earn MQD waiver and 10K MQMs with Delta Platinum card): $467.50
  • $30K (Earn MQD waiver and 15K MQMs with Delta Reserve card): $561

The above “prices” are far cheaper than the amount Delta would charge you to buy and end of year status boost.  And, in most cases, the “prices” are cheaper or at least as good as most mileage run prices but without having to actually fly to earn status.  On the other hand, if you give the IRS a loan by over paying taxes with your credit card, then you have to have the money available to pay your credit card bill while you wait for your end of year tax refund.  It’s also worth considering the “cost of money”: While the government has your money, you won’t be earning interest on it.

Easy Delta elite status boost

As shown above, Delta credit cards can make it easy to earn a status boost to reach the level of status you want.  Let’s look at a few example scenarios:

Scenario: You don’t have a Delta Platinum or Reserve card and you’re short 5,000 MQMs from the next level of status

Solution: Sign up for a card that offers 5,000 MQMs as part of the welcome offer.  If necessary, use one of the techniques described above to meet the minimum spend requirements before the end of the year.

Scenario: You have a Delta Platinum card and you’re short 10,000 MQMs from the next level of status

Solution: Use one of the techniques described above to reach $25,000 in calendar year spend (or to reach $50,000 in spend if you’ve already spend $25K).

Scenario: You have a Delta Platinum card and you’re short 15,000 MQMs from the next level of status

Solution: Either sign up new for the Delta Reserve card or upgrade your Delta Platinum card to the Delta Reserve card and then spend $30,000 before the end of the year.

Conclusion

It’s incredibly common to reach the end of the year and realize that you haven’t quite reached the level of elite status you want.  Sure, you could fork over huge amounts of cash to Delta to pay your way to the difference, but there are better ways.  Mileage running can be a fun option if you can bake in a little vacation with the trip, but I think that credit card spend and/or welcome bonus options are easier.

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chris

or just don’t, airline elite status is not worth the effort.

[…] Easy Delta elite status boost by Frequent Miler. […]

[…] Pictured above is the Delta SkyClub at Washington National airport (DCA).  The Delta Reserve credit card gives you access to the club when flying Delta same-day. Airline elite status is great to have if you can get it easily.  With elite status you can get f…Read more […]

Ron

I think decisions about elite status boosting are more complicated for Delta due to Rollover. For example, I’m a Silver this year and will be at 37,500 miles by end of year (so Silver is renewed). I have a large bill to pay with my Reserve card, so will get me another 15,000 MQMs. Do I pay it before or after January 1? If I do it before will be Gold for 2020 but start year out with only 2,500 MQM’s. If I wait will be a Silver in 2020 but with 12,500 MQMs plus a 15k boost (before Jan 31 to get extra 15k Skymiles!) will be at 27,500 MQMs almost right away; this makes it way easier to get to Gold early in the year and have it apply for 2020 and 2021. Any thoughts/advice? Thanks.

James

It depends on how much flying you think you’ll do in each year – 2020 vs. 2021 as well as how fast you expect to make up those 22.5k miles.