Does The Southwest Credit Card Pay For Tsa Precheck?
With busy travel schedules, frequent flyers know the value of expedited airport security screening. TSA Precheck allows low-risk travelers to speed through designated checkpoint lanes without removing shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets.
If you fly Southwest Airlines often, you may wonder if the Southwest credit cards cover your TSA Precheck fees.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority and Premier credit cards offer statement credits that can reimburse your $85 TSA Precheck application fee every 4-5 years.
Southwest Credit Cards That Offer TSA Precheck Credits
If you’re a frequent traveler, you know how valuable TSA Precheck can be in saving time and hassle at the airport. Fortunately, some Southwest credit cards offer TSA Precheck credits as one of their benefits.
Let’s take a closer look at two of these cards: the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Card is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the perks of TSA Precheck. With this card, you’ll receive a statement credit of up to $85 every four years to cover the cost of TSA Precheck or Global Entry application fees.
This means you can skip the long security lines and enjoy a stress-free travel experience. Additionally, this card offers other great benefits, such as a $75 Southwest annual travel credit, 7,500 anniversary points each year, and upgraded boarding positions.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card is another Southwest credit card that provides TSA Precheck credits. Cardholders are eligible for a statement credit of up to $85 every four years to cover the cost of TSA Precheck or Global Entry.
With this benefit, you can save time and breeze through security lines, making your travel experience even more enjoyable. Along with the TSA Precheck credit, this card offers other perks like 6,000 anniversary points each year, no foreign transaction fees, and the ability to earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points on every purchase.
It’s important to note that while both of these Southwest credit cards offer TSA Precheck credits, they do come with annual fees. The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Card has an annual fee of $149, while the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card has an annual fee of $99.
However, if you frequently travel with Southwest and take advantage of the benefits these cards offer, the annual fee may be well worth it.
For more information on these Southwest credit cards and their TSA Precheck benefits, you can visit the official Southwest website at www.southwest.com. Remember to always read the terms and conditions of any credit card offer before applying to ensure it aligns with your travel needs and preferences.
How the TSA Precheck Credits Work
One of the perks of having a Southwest Credit Card is the ability to receive credits towards TSA Precheck, a program that allows for expedited security screening at participating airports in the United States.
These credits can help cardholders save time and make their travel experiences more efficient.
Credit Amount and Frequency
The amount of the TSA Precheck credit offered by Southwest Credit Cards can vary depending on the specific card and its benefits. For example, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card offers a $75 statement credit towards TSA Precheck or Global Entry every four years.
On the other hand, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card offer a $100 statement credit towards TSA Precheck or Global Entry every four years.
It’s important to note that these credits are typically offered on a per-cardholder basis. This means that if you have multiple Southwest Credit Cards, you may be eligible for multiple credits towards TSA Precheck or Global Entry.
Redeeming the Credit
Redeeming the TSA Precheck credit is a straightforward process. Once you have been approved and received your Southwest Credit Card, you can follow these steps:
- Visit the TSA Precheck website or the Global Entry website, depending on which program you prefer.
- Complete the application process and pay the required fee.
- When prompted, enter the necessary information from your Southwest Credit Card to receive the statement credit.
- After the credit has been applied, you can enjoy the benefits of expedited security screening.
It’s worth mentioning that TSA Precheck credits offered by Southwest Credit Cards can also be used towards Global Entry, another program that provides expedited clearance for international travelers. Global Entry includes TSA Precheck benefits and allows for faster customs and immigration processing upon arrival in the United States.
If you’re a frequent traveler or simply value the convenience of expedited security screening, applying for a Southwest Credit Card and taking advantage of the TSA Precheck credits can be a great way to enhance your travel experience.
Other Southwest Credit Card Benefits
Aside from the possibility of paying for TSA Precheck, the Southwest Credit Card offers a range of other benefits that can enhance your travel experience. Here are some of the key benefits you can enjoy:
Anniversary Points
One of the standout perks of the Southwest Credit Card is the opportunity to earn anniversary points. Every year on your cardmember anniversary, you will receive a certain number of bonus points, which can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or other travel-related expenses.
This is a great way to maximize the value of your card and make your trips even more affordable.
Companion Pass
The Southwest Credit Card also offers the chance to earn a Companion Pass, which allows you to bring a companion along on your flights for just the cost of taxes and fees. This is an incredible benefit for frequent Southwest travelers who often fly with a partner or family member.
The Companion Pass can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars on airfare each year.
Upgraded Boarding
Another valuable perk of the Southwest Credit Card is the opportunity to receive upgraded boarding positions. With this benefit, you can secure a better boarding position, giving you a higher chance of finding overhead bin space for your carry-on luggage and ensuring a more comfortable and hassle-free travel experience.
This is especially useful for those who prefer to bring their luggage on board instead of checking it.
In-flight Discounts
Southwest Credit Cardholders can also enjoy exclusive in-flight discounts and offers. These discounts can apply to a range of items, such as in-flight Wi-Fi, snacks, beverages, and even merchandise. By taking advantage of these discounts, you can save money while enjoying your flight and make the most of your Southwest Credit Card benefits.
It’s important to note that specific benefits may vary depending on the type of Southwest Credit Card you have. Therefore, it’s advisable to carefully review the terms and conditions of your card to fully understand the benefits you are eligible for.
For more information on the Southwest Credit Card benefits, you can visit the official Southwest Airlines website at https://www.southwest.com/credit-card/overview.
Who Should Get a Southwest Card for TSA Precheck?
If you’re a frequent flyer with Southwest Airlines, getting a Southwest credit card that covers the cost of TSA Precheck can be a smart move. Not only will it save you time and hassle at the airport, but it can also enhance your overall travel experience.
Here are a few types of travelers who should consider getting a Southwest card for TSA Precheck:
Frequent Southwest Flyers
If you find yourself jetting off on Southwest Airlines regularly, a Southwest credit card that offers TSA Precheck can be a game-changer. With TSA Precheck, you can breeze through security without having to remove your shoes, belt, or light jacket, and you can keep your laptop and liquids in your bag.
This means less time spent in line and more time enjoying your journey to your destination. Plus, with a Southwest credit card, you can earn valuable rewards and enjoy perks such as priority boarding and free checked bags.
Southwest Companion Pass Chasers
The Southwest Companion Pass is one of the most coveted perks in the travel world. With this pass, a designated companion can fly with you for free (excluding taxes and fees) for the remainder of the year in which you earn it, as well as the following year.
To earn the Companion Pass, you need to accumulate 125,000 qualifying points or complete 100 qualifying flights in a calendar year. Having a Southwest credit card that covers the cost of TSA Precheck can help you earn those qualifying points faster, as you can earn points not just from flying but also from everyday purchases.
Travelers Who Value Airport Perks
For travelers who value convenience and airport perks, a Southwest credit card with TSA Precheck can be a great fit. In addition to the benefits of TSA Precheck, some Southwest credit cards also offer perks such as priority check-in, priority boarding, and airport lounge access.
These perks can enhance your overall travel experience and make your time at the airport more enjoyable. Plus, with a Southwest credit card, you can earn rewards on your everyday spending and redeem them for flights, hotel stays, and more.
Alternatives to Southwest Credit Cards
While the Southwest Credit Card offers many benefits, it’s not the only option for frequent travelers. Here are three alternatives that you may consider:
The Platinum Card from American Express
The Platinum Card from American Express is a popular choice among frequent flyers. With this card, you not only get access to exclusive airport lounges, but you also receive a $100 credit towards Global Entry or TSA Precheck.
This means that the Platinum Card can help you save time and breeze through security lines at the airport. Additionally, the card offers great travel rewards, such as airline credits, hotel benefits, and concierge services.
United Explorer Card
The United Explorer Card is another option to consider if you frequently fly with United Airlines. This card offers a variety of travel perks, including a $100 credit towards Global Entry or TSA Precheck.
By using this card, you can enjoy a smoother airport experience and save time during your travels. In addition, you can earn miles on every purchase and enjoy free checked bags and priority boarding when flying with United.
Citi AAdvantage Executive Card
If you’re a loyal American Airlines customer, the Citi AAdvantage Executive Card may be the right choice for you. This card comes with a $450 annual fee, but it offers a $100 credit towards Global Entry or TSA Precheck.
In addition, cardholders can enjoy Admirals Club membership, which provides access to exclusive airport lounges worldwide. The card also offers great travel benefits, such as priority check-in, priority boarding, and free checked bags.
It’s important to compare the features and benefits of each card to determine which one aligns with your travel needs and preferences. Remember to read the terms and conditions of each card carefully before making a decision.
Conclusion
While the Southwest credit cards that offer TSA Precheck reimbursement come with nice perks, make sure to compare them against other airline and travel rewards cards before applying. The up to $85 statement credit for TSA Precheck fees every 4-5 years is just one of many factors to weigh as you choose a new credit card.
For Southwest loyalists who check bags, enjoy Companion Pass benefits and appreciate the airline’s open seating policy, the Priority or Premier card could be a good fit. Just be ready to use the annual travel credits each year to offset the annual fees.
