When it comes to airline loyalty programs, Southwest Airlines has one of the best in the industry. With this program, travelers can earn Rapid Rewards points for their flights and use them towards free flights or discounts on future trips. In addition, Southwest offers several credit cards that are specifically designed to help customers maximize their rewards earnings. This article will discuss the best Southwest Airlines credit cards available and how they can benefit consumers looking to take advantage of travel rewards.
The first card worth mentioning is the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card from Chase Bank. This card allows users to get 2x points per dollar spent on purchases with Southwest and 1 point per dollar everywhere else. It also features 6,000 bonus points after spending just $1,000 within three months of opening an account plus a companion pass valid through December 31st of the following year when you spend $25,000 annually on your card.
Finally, there is the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card which gives customers 4x points on all purchases made directly with Southwest as well as 2x points at select restaurants and bars worldwide. Additionally, cardholders receive 7500 anniversary bonus points each year along with a 20% rebate on inflight drinks and Wi-Fi access purchased using their card. All these benefits make this one of the best options for frequent flyers who want maximum value out of their reward earning potential.
Overview Of Credit Cards
Southwest Airlines credit cards offer a variety of rewards and benefits to customers, giving them the opportunity to earn points or cash back on their everyday purchases. These credit cards are designed for frequent travelers who fly with Southwest Airlines regularly. Some of these cards come with no annual fee, while others may have an annual fee but provide extra perks such as bonus miles, priority boarding and free checked bags. Each card has different features that can help make traveling more convenient and rewarding. To pick out the right credit card for you, it is important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Before applying for any Southwest Airlines credit card, researching all available options will help ensure you get the most value from your chosen card.
Benefits Of Southwest Airlines Credit Cards
Southwest Airlines Credit Cards offer a range of benefits for customers. These include:
- Rewards on purchases made with the card, such as Rapid Reward points which can be used towards discounted flights or upgrades.
- Access to exclusive discounts and offers from Southwest Airlines partners, including complimentary companion passes and discounts on hotel stays.
- Special privileges such as priority boarding and early access to flight sales.
- No foreign transaction fees when using the card abroad.
The rewards program is designed to give customers more flexibility in their travel plans, while providing additional incentives to use the card whenever possible. Customers also have access to a dedicated customer service line should they have any queries about their account or require assistance with booking flights or other services through Southwest Airlines’ website or app. Furthermore, all transactions are protected by fraud detection technology so customers can rest assured that their data remains secure at all times when making payments with their credit cards. By taking advantage of these benefits customers can maximize their savings and make the most out of each trip they take with Southwest Airlines
Types Of Southwest Airlines Credit Cards
With the benefits of Southwest Airlines credit cards in mind, it is important to understand the various types of cards available. The Rapid Rewards Priority card offers two points for every dollar spent with Southwest and participating hotel and car rental partners. This card also features four upgraded boardings per year when available, 20 percent back on inflight purchases, 7,500 bonus points after spending $15,000 within a calendar year, and other discounts such as 25 percent off in-flight Wi-Fi purchases. Additionally, the Premier card gives customers one point for each dollar they spend with Southwest and partner hotels and car rentals. Elite members receive an additional 6,000 bonus points after their first purchase plus 1,500 tier qualifying points (TQPs) towards A-List or A-List Preferred status each time they use their card to make a purchase with Southwest. Furthermore, this card includes up to three upgrades per year when available; double TQPs on all Southwest purchases; no foreign transaction fees; free first checked bag; and discounted Companion Passes. Finally, the Plus version offers similar benefits but at a lower annual fee than the higher level options. All these cards come with anniversary bonuses which can be redeemed for flights or merchandise depending upon preference.
Eligibility Requirements
In order to be eligible for a Southwest Airlines credit card, applicants must meet certain criteria. Generally speaking, they must have a valid form of identification and be at least 18 years old or older. In addition, they may need to provide proof of residence such as a current utility bill or copy of lease agreement if the address listed on the application is different from their ID. Furthermore, having good credit can help increase the chances of being approved for one of these cards.
Additionally, some banks may require that an applicant’s combined income and other debt expenses do not exceed a maximum percentage (typically between 36-40%) of their gross monthly income before approving them for any type of loan or line of credit. Finally, some financial institutions will also factor in how long an individual has had open lines of credit when determining eligibility for specific types of loans or credit cards.
Rewards And Cashback Offers
Southwest Airlines has a variety of credit cards that offer rewards and cashback options. The Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card offers customers two points per dollar spent on Southwest purchases, as well as one point for every other dollar spent. Customers can also earn 6,000 bonus points after their first card purchase with the card. Additionally, those who spend $2,000 or more in three months will be eligible for an additional 3,000 bonus points. Furthermore, this card comes with no blackout dates on any flights booked through Southwest Airlines.
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card is similar to the Premier version but it does not have an annual fee and rewards customers with double points when they shop at participating hotel and car rental partners. It also provides flight discounts and priority boarding privileges which can be beneficial for frequent travelers. Both cards are excellent choices depending on individual needs and preferences since both provide benefits that make traveling with Southwest rewarding and convenient.
How To Apply
For those interested in applying for a Southwest Airlines Credit Card, there are several steps to follow. To start with, the potential cardholder must visit the airline’s website and select “Apply Now” when prompted. After this step has been completed, they will be asked to provide some personal information such as their name, address, phone number, email address etc. Additionally, applicants may also need to submit other documents such as proof of identity or income if applicable.
The following table outlines the credit cards offered by Southwest Airlines and their respective benefits:
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card$69/year
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card$69/year
| Card Type | Annual Fee | Benefits |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card | $99/year | 6,000 Points each year on your account anniversary + 1 point per $1 spent on purchases with Southwest airlines |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card | $69/year | 3,000 points each year on your account anniversary + 1 point per $1 spent on purchases with Southwest airlines |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card | $149/year | 7,5|00 points each year on your account anniversary + 2 points per $1 spent on purchases with Southwest airlines |
Once all requested documentation is submitted and approved by the airline’s representatives, it usually takes between 7-10 business days before an official decision regarding approval is made. Upon receipt of approval from the issuing bank or financial institution associated with the specific card, a cardmember agreement detailing terms and conditions will be sent along with instructions for activating the card.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Southwest Airlines credit cards offer a great opportunity for travelers. The benefits include exclusive access to bonus points and cashback offers, as well as perks such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and in-flight discounts. Furthermore, there are several types of cards available to suit different needs and budgets. To be eligible for the card applicants must meet certain requirements such as having an excellent credit score or being employed by select companies. All these factors make it easy for consumers to find the right credit card that fits their lifestyle and financial situation. With careful consideration given to the type of card chosen and its associated rewards program, customers can take full advantage of all that Southwest Airlines has to offer.