Southwest Credit Card: Southwest Airlines has built a strong reputation for providing affordable flights, customer-friendly policies, and a robust rewards program. If you’re someone who frequently travels or plans to explore new destinations, getting a Southwest credit card might be your ticket to earning valuable rewards and enjoying travel perks.
Why consider a Southwest credit card? These cards are designed for travelers who want to maximize their flying experience while earning Rapid Rewards points that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and more. Whether you’re a casual traveler or a business flyer, Southwest credit cards offer benefits that go beyond basic travel rewards.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of Southwest credit cards, their benefits, eligibility, and tips for maximizing rewards to help you decide if this card is right for you.
Types of Southwest Credit Cards
Personal Credit Cards
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
- Annual Fee: $69
- Best for budget-conscious travelers who still want rewards
- Features:
- 2x points on Southwest purchases
- 3,000-anniversary points each year
- No foreign transaction fees
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
- Annual Fee: $99
- Best for frequent travelers looking for more benefits
- Features:
- 6,000-anniversary points
- Earn tier-qualifying points toward A-List status
- No foreign transaction fees
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
- Annual Fee: $149
- Ideal for those seeking premium perks and travel credits
- Features:
- 7,500-anniversary points
- $75 annual travel credit
- 4 upgraded boardings per year
Business Credit Cards
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Card
- Annual Fee: $99
- Suitable for small business owners with frequent travel needs
- Features:
- 2x points on Southwest purchases and business categories
- Earn tier-qualifying points toward A-List status
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Card
- Annual Fee: $199
- Best for business owners seeking high-end rewards and features
- Features:
- 3x points on Southwest purchases
- 9,000-anniversary points
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee credit
Key Features and Benefits
1. Rapid Rewards Points System
Southwest credit cards are directly linked to the Rapid Rewards program, allowing users to earn points for every purchase. These points can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and gift cards without blackout dates.
2. Generous Welcome Bonuses
Many Southwest cards offer welcome bonuses ranging from 50,000 to 75,000 points when you meet spending requirements within the first three months.
3. Travel Perks and Credits
- Annual travel credits to offset costs
- Free checked bags (a signature Southwest perk)
- No change fees
4. Companion Pass Eligibility
Achieve the coveted Companion Pass, allowing one person to fly with you for free (excluding taxes and fees) for up to two years when qualifying points are earned.
Who Should Apply for a Southwest Credit Card?
Southwest credit cards are ideal for:
- Frequent Flyers: Those who primarily travel with Southwest Airlines.
- Families and Groups: Enjoy free checked bags and flexible ticketing.
- Business Travelers: Earn rewards for business-related purchases.
- Budget-Conscious Travelers: Affordable fees and high-value rewards make these cards appealing.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a Southwest credit card, applicants generally need:
- Good to Excellent Credit Score: Typically 670 or higher.
- Stable Income: Proof of sufficient income to handle payments.
- U.S. Residency: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
How to Apply for a Southwest Credit Card
Step-by-Step Process
- Visit the Official Website – Go to the Southwest Airlines or Chase Bank website to view available credit card options.
- Select Your Card – Compare features and choose the card that best fits your travel and financial needs.
- Complete the Application Form – Fill out personal information, including name, address, income, and Social Security Number.
- Submit Required Documents – Provide proof of identity and income, if requested.
- Wait for Approval – Receive instant or emailed approval status within minutes to days.
Understanding the Rapid Rewards Program
Southwest’s Rapid Rewards program allows you to:
- Earn Points on Everyday Spending: Earn 1-3x points per dollar based on spending categories.
- Redeem Points for Travel: Use points for flights, hotel stays, and car rentals.
- Get More Value for Points: No blackout dates or seat restrictions.
Exclusive Perks and Companion Pass
1. How to Qualify for a Companion Pass
One of the standout features of Southwest credit cards is the Companion Pass, which lets you choose a travel companion to fly with you for free (excluding taxes and fees). Here’s how you can qualify:
- Earn 135,000 Rapid Rewards Points in a calendar year.
- Alternatively, take 100 qualifying one-way flights within a calendar year.
- Combine sign-up bonuses with daily spending to reach the required point total faster.
2. Rules and Benefits of the Companion Pass
- Once earned, the Companion Pass is valid for the rest of the calendar year and the entire following year.
- You can change your designated companion up to three times during the validity period.
- Companion tickets can be booked even if you pay for your own flight with points or cash.
The Companion Pass is considered one of the most valuable benefits in the travel credit card industry, saving families and couples hundreds or even thousands of dollars on airfare.
Fees and Interest Rates
Understanding the fees and interest rates associated with Southwest credit cards is crucial before applying. Here’s a breakdown:
| Card Type | Annual Fee | APR | Penalty Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Card | $69 | 21.24%–28.24% variable | Late payment: up to $40 |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Card | $99 | 21.24%–28.24% variable | Late payment: up to $40 |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Card | $149 | 21.24%–28.24% variable | Late payment: up to $40 |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Business | $99 | 21.24%–28.24% variable | Late payment: up to $40 |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business | $199 | 21.24%–28.24% variable | Late payment: up to $40 |
Important Notes:
- Interest rates are variable and depend on market conditions and creditworthiness.
- Pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
- All Southwest credit cards waive foreign transaction fees, making them excellent choices for international travelers.
How to Maximize Rewards and Benefits
1. Use the Card for Everyday Spending
To accumulate Rapid Rewards points faster:
- Pay for groceries, gas, and dining with your card.
- Set up automatic payments for subscriptions and utility bills.
2. Take Advantage of Bonus Categories
Earn 2x or 3x points on Southwest purchases and partner offers, such as car rentals and hotels.
3. Book Flights with Points Strategically
Redeem points for flights during sales or promotional offers to maximize their value. Southwest’s lack of blackout dates ensures you can always find a deal.
4. Combine with Other Travel Perks
Leverage anniversary points, travel credits, and upgraded boardings to enhance your experience.
5. Stack Rewards with Promotions
Watch for limited-time offers, including extra points for certain purchases, and use partner services like dining programs and rental cars to boost your balance.
Pros and Cons of Southwest Credit Cards
Pros:
- No Blackout Dates: Book any available seat with points.
- Companion Pass: Fly with a friend or family member for free.
- Free Checked Bags: Save $60 per round trip with two free bags.
- Anniversary Bonuses: Receive bonus points every year to offset the annual fee.
- Flexible Rewards: Use points for flights, hotels, and car rentals.
Cons:
- Limited Airline Options: Points can only be redeemed for Southwest Airlines flights.
- Annual Fees: Higher-tier cards come with steeper annual costs.
- High APR: Not ideal for those who carry balances month-to-month.
- No Luxury Perks: Lacks benefits like airport lounge access available with other premium travel cards.
Alternatives to Southwest Credit Cards
If Southwest credit cards don’t meet your needs, consider these alternatives:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Flexible points that transfer to multiple airlines and hotels.
- No foreign transaction fees and premium travel protections.
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- Earn 2x miles on all purchases and redeem for flights on any airline.
- Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
- Ideal for Delta travelers, offering free checked bags and priority boarding.
- American Express® Gold Card
- Higher rewards for dining and groceries, plus transfer partners for airlines.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Southwest credit cards generally receive high ratings for their rewards program and travel perks. Common praises include:
- Ease of Earning Points: Users love the ability to earn and redeem points without hassle.
- No Hidden Fees: Transparent pricing and no surprise charges.
- Companion Pass Value: Travelers find this feature extremely cost-effective.
However, some users report that the APR can be high, so these cards are best suited for individuals who pay off their balances monthly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Ignoring the Annual Fee
- Make sure the benefits outweigh the cost.
- Not Meeting the Bonus Requirements
- Spend strategically to hit spending thresholds and unlock welcome bonuses.
- Overlooking Terms and Conditions
- Read the fine print, including reward expiration policies.
- Applying Without Checking Credit Score
- Ensure your credit score meets the minimum requirement to avoid rejection.
FAQs about Southwest Credit Card
What are the benefits of using a Southwest Credit Card?
The Southwest Credit Card offers several perks, including Rapid Rewards points on every purchase, annual travel credits, and priority boarding. Cardholders can earn points not only on Southwest Airlines purchases but also on everyday spending like dining and shopping, making it a valuable choice for frequent travelers.
How can I apply for a Southwest Credit Card?
Applying for a Southwest Credit Card is straightforward. Visit the Southwest Airlines website and navigate to their credit card section. Choose the card that best suits your travel needs and click on the ‘Apply Now’ button. You’ll need to provide some personal and financial information to complete your application.
Are there different types of Southwest Credit Cards?
Yes, Southwest offers several credit cards, including the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus, Premier, and Priority Cards. Each card comes with different benefits and annual fees, so reviewing each one to determine which best fits your travel habits and budget is important.
Can I use my Southwest Credit Card internationally?
Yes, Southwest Credit Cards are issued by Visa and are accepted worldwide. Additionally, most Southwest Credit Cards come with no foreign transaction fees, making them a great option for international travelers.
What should I do if I lose my Southwest Credit Card?
If you lose your Southwest Credit Card, contact the customer service department immediately to report the card as lost or stolen. They will assist in freezing your account and issuing a replacement card to prevent unauthorized use.
How do I redeem points earned on my Southwest Credit Card?
Redeeming points is easy. Log into your Southwest Rapid Rewards account, where you can view your points balance and search for flights. Points can be used to book travel directly through Southwest Airlines, including flights, hotel stays, and car rentals, offering you flexibility in planning your trips.
Final Thoughts
A Southwest credit card can be a game-changer for frequent flyers, offering valuable rewards, flexible redemption options, and perks like the Companion Pass. While it may not be ideal for every traveler, those who regularly fly with Southwest will find these cards to be worth the investment.
Whether you’re planning family vacations or business trips, Southwest credit cards can make your travel experience smoother and more affordable. Evaluate your travel patterns and financial habits to decide which card best suits your needs.
