Is a Delta credit card worth it?

Yes, a Delta credit card is worth it if you frequently travel on Delta Air Lines. The welcome bonus offers alone bring enough value in the first year to make the card worthwhile. Beyond the first year, just a few flights receiving a free checked bag or lounge access can bring value beyond that of any annual fee. You’ll also be earning Delta SkyMiles that can be redeemed for free flights or applied towards paid tickets with the Pay with Miles benefit.

Can I transfer Delta SkyMiles to other airlines?

You cannot transfer SkyMiles to other airlines. Delta SkyMiles can be redeemed for award flights, which can be operated by SkyTeam partner airlines. You can also use SkyMiles to pay for qualifying flights on delta.com with the Pay with Miles feature.

Do Delta SkyMiles expire?

Delta SkyMiles do not expire. When you earn SkyMiles, they are deposited into your SkyMiles account and are safe as long as that account is open, even if you close your Delta credit card. Many airline frequent flyer programs set your miles to expire, so this is a great benefit of having a SkyMiles account.

How does the Delta companion pass work?

Each anniversary card year on the Delta Reserve card and the Delta Platinum card (and business versions of these cards), you receive a certificate good for a companion ticket. When you purchase 1 ticket, you receive the second ticket for just the cost of the taxes and fees, which are capped in price. The certificate is good for flights in main cabin or first class, depending on which Delta card you hold, for domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations. Certificates are issued each year after renewal of your card and are good for 1 year from the date it is earned.

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The 9 Best Credit Cards for Delta Flyers [Lounge Access, Upgrades, Priority Boarding, and More]

Updated: November 11, 2024, 2:39am CST

Edited by:

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Card Summary
The 5 Best Personal Cards for Delta Flyers
The 4 Best Business Credit Cards for Delta Flyers
Earning Delta Air Lines Medallion Elite Status With Delta Credit Cards
Final Thoughts

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If you fly Delta even a few times a year, the benefits of having a Delta-branded credit card are worth considering. Lounge access, priority boarding, free checked bags on Delta flights, earning more Delta SkyMiles, and improving your chances for an upgrade are all great reasons to be a cardholder.

In addition to Delta-branded credit cards, other credit cards can help earn free flights and even provide cardholders complimentary Sky Club lounge access. Today, we’ll explore some of the best credit card options for providing benefits specifically for Delta flyers.

If you’ve made Delta your airline of choice but haven’t pursued the additional benefits of a Delta credit card, you’re in luck. All the information you need to help you select the right card is here.

Let’s take a look at the best credit cards for Delta flyers.

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Best Overall Credit Cards for Delta Air Lines Flyers

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card — Best for Sky Club Access, Companion Ticket, Earning SkyMiles, and Flight Upgrade Priority
The Platinum Card^® from American Express — Best for Lounge Access, Flexible Rewards, Travel Insurance Benefits
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card — Best for Earning SkyMiles, Companion Ticket, Flight Benefits
Chase Sapphire Reserve^® — Best for Flexible Rewards, Statement Credits, Travel Insurance Benefits
Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card — Best for a Lower Annual Fee, Delta Stays Credit, Award DiscountDelta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card —
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card — Best Business Card for Sky Club Access, Companion Ticket, Earning SkyMiles, and Flight Upgrade Priority
The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express — Best Business Card for Lounge Access, Flexible Rewards
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card — Best Business Card for Earning SkyMiles on Delta and Large Business Purchases, Companion Ticket, Statement Credits, and Award Discount
Delta SkyMiles^® Gold Business American Express Card — Best Business Card for a Lower Annual Fee, Earning SkyMiles, Statement Credits, and Award Discount

Card Summary

Before we cover the details of our favorite cards for Delta flyers, here are the highlights of how our featured cards compare overall.

The 5 Best Personal Cards for Delta Flyers

American Express has a card for every Delta flyer. Whether you want to earn Delta SkyMiles on your purchases or prefer additional premium travel benefits, such as Delta Sky Club access, there’s a personal credit card that will match your preferences.

Here are some of the best cards for Delta flyers.

Delta Reserve Card — Best for Sky Club Access, Companion Ticket, Earning SkyMiles, and Flight Upgrade Priority

The Delta Reserve card is one of the best Delta-branded cards you can have as a Delta flyer. The long list of Delta-centric benefits provides excellent value for the frequent Delta traveler.

If you travel frequently on Delta Air Lines, you’ll appreciate having access to the Delta Sky Club lounges. You could purchase a membership or use your Delta Reserve card, which offers complimentary Sky Club access for the cardholder. A single annual membership would currently cost $695 annually.

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

U.P. Rating

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

Welcome OfferEarn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
70,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$840

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its MQD Headstart towards status boost, lounge access, annual companion certificate, and many other great benefits.

Here is a full look at everything the Delta Reserve card can offer to you to help you decide whether the card deserves a place in your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases.
1x SkyMile per $1 on all other eligible purchases.
Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights.

Cons

$650 annual fee (rates & fees)
No bonus categories other than Delta purchases

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club^® when you fly Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter. Once all 15 Visits have been used, Eligible Card Members may purchase additional Delta Sky Club Visits at a per-Visit rate of $50 per person using the Card.
Receive four Delta Sky Club^® One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly Delta so you can share the experience with family and friends.
Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion^® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
Receive $2,500 Medallion^® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
Earn $1 Medallion^® Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
Receive a Companion Certificate on a Main Cabin round-trip flight within the U.S. and to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of the government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for round-trip domestic flights and no more than $250 for round-trip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
$240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $20 each month in statement credits. Enrollment required.
$120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card to pay for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
With your Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
$650 Annual Fee.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Airline Loyalty Program

Why We Like the Card for Delta Flyers

3x miles on Delta purchases
Enjoy priority for complimentary upgrades, a free checked bag, priority boarding, and a 20% inflight food/beverage purchase statement credit
Receive an annual companion certificate valid on first class, Comfort+, or main cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal of your card (taxes apply)
Receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars toward elite status each Medallion Qualification Year; Reserve cardholders can also earn MQDs through spending with 1 MQD earned for each $10 of purchases on the card
Up to $240 Annual Resy Credit: Up to $20 monthly in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled card
Up to $120 Annual Ride-Share Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. ride-share purchases with select providers after you pay with your enrolled card
Up to $200 Annual Delta Stays Credit: Earn up to $200 back annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com
Ability To Pay for Flights Using Miles (Pay With Miles): Each 5,000 miles is worth $50 toward the flight purchase; for example, you could use 20,000 miles to discount the price of a ticket by $200
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement as a statement credit

Hot Tip:

Delta has announced changes that will go into effect starting February 1, 2025. Instead of unlimited complimentary Delta Sky Club access, Delta Reserve card and Delta Reserve Business card members will receive 15 days annually. The Amex Platinum card and Amex Business Platinum card members will receive 10 days annually. Those members who spend $75,000 or more each year will earn unlimited access. Terms apply.

Amex Platinum Card — Best for Lounge Access, Flexible Rewards, Travel Insurance Benefits

If Delta is just 1 airline you fly frequently, you may prefer a premium travel card that earns flexible rewards currency and offers greater redemption options.

While the Amex Platinum card is not a Delta-branded card, the card offers complimentary Delta Sky Club lounge access for the cardholder and benefits that make the card a compelling choice for Delta flyers.

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Welcome OfferEarn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
80,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$1,760

Annual Fee

$695

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card^® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros & Cons

Pros

The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com

Cons

$695 annual fee (rates and fees)
Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
$200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card^®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card^® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card^® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card^®.
$200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card^® Members can get out and about and explore their local area with $15 in Uber Cash for US rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings. Simply download the Uber app and add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to get started. Available to Basic Card Member only. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
$199 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck^® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card^®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card^®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Resy profile.
$695 annual fee.¤
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: See Pay Over Time APR
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Why We Like the Card for Delta Flyers

5x Membership Rewards points on flights purchased from Delta Air Lines or AmexTravel.com
Complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club plus over 1,400 lounges worldwide in the American Express Global Lounge Collection; access is also included to the prestigious Centurion Lounge network and Priority Pass Select membership upon enrollment
Transfer Membership Rewards points earned on the card to SkyTeam partners and redeem them for Delta Air Lines flights
Redeem points via AmexTravel.com for Delta Air Lines flights
Up to $199 CLEAR Plus statement credit
Up to $200 airline incidental fee credit each year to use with Delta if you select Delta Air Lines as your qualifying airline

In addition to Delta-related benefits, the card has a long list of premium travel benefits, statement credits, and travel insurance.

Delta Platinum Card — Best for Earning SkyMiles, Companion Ticket, Flight Benefits

The Delta Platinum card is an excellent choice for receiving premium Delta Air Lines benefits without a higher annual card fee.

The card comes with plenty of value-added perks. With elevated earnings, flight benefits, discounted award tickets, a companion flight certificate, and statement credits, it is an obvious choice for Delta flyers.

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card

U.P. Rating

Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card

Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.

Welcome OfferEarn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
60,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$720

Annual Fee

$350

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card can be a great option for those seeking additional ways to obtain a higher level of status — or to maintain their current status — with the airline.

A key feature of this card is the ability to earn bonus Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) that are essential for earning Delta status. This could help you get closer to earning a handful of valuable benefits with the airline.

Pros & Cons

Pros

3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on Delta purchases
3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on purchases made directly with hotels
2x SkyMiles per $1 spent at restaurants (including takeout and delivery) and U.S. supermarkets

Cons

$350 annual fee (rates & fees)
Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Receive a Companion Certificate on a Main Cabin round-trip flight within the U.S. and to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of the government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for round-trip domestic flights and no more than $250 for round-trip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
Receive $2,500 Medallion^® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
Earn $1 Medallion^® Qualification Dollar for each $20 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
$120 Resy Credit: When you use your enrolled Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $10 back each month in statement credits.
$120 Rideshare Credit: earn up to $10 in statement credits each month after using your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
You can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $70 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four that's a potential savings of up to $280 per round-trip flight.
Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck^® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
$350 Annual Fee.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta Air Lines SkyMiles

Why We Like the Card for Delta Flyers

3x miles on Delta purchases and 2x miles at U.S. supermarkets and worldwide dining (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.)
Free checked bag on Delta flights, priority boarding for the cardholder and up to 8 travel companions on the same reservation, upgrade priority after elite members, and 20% statement credit for eligible inflight purchases
Ability to pay for flights using miles (Pay with Miles)
Receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year toward elite status
15% discount when using miles for award flight purchases
Annual $120 Resy credit of up to $10 monthly in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled card
Annual $120 ride-share credit of up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. ride-share purchases with select providers after you pay with your enrolled card
Up to $150 Delta Stays credit annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com.
Companion certificate each year valid on Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal of your card; taxes apply
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit
Cell phone protection

Chase Sapphire Reserve Card — Best for Flexible Rewards, Statement Credits, Travel Insurance Benefits

Frequent travelers could find tremendous value in having the Chase Sapphire Reserve card. The card earns flexible rewards that can be transferred to airline and hotel partners or redeemed via Chase Travel.

The card also has lounge access benefits via Priority Pass Select membership (this does not include Delta Sky Clubs) and an annual travel credit that can be used for any travel purchase, including Delta Air Lines.

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Welcome OfferEarn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$1,200

Annual Fee

$550

APR

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Excellent (740-850)

Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options. Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025

Cons

$550 annual fee
Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
$300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^®
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 21.99% - 28.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Why We Like the Card for Delta Flyers

3x Ultimate Rewards points on travel not purchased through Chase Travel, which includes Delta Air Lines flights purchased directly with the airline
Complimentary access to over 1,400 lounges worldwide for cardholders and 2 guests with a Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required)
Ultimate Rewards points earned on the card can be transferred to SkyTeam partners and then redeemed for Delta Air Lines flights
Ultimate Rewards can be redeemed for 1.5 cents each to book Delta Air Lines flights directly through Chase Travel
A $300 annual travel credit that can be used for Delta Air Lines flights
The card comes with several premium travel insurance benefits

Delta Gold Card — Best for a Lower Annual Fee, Delta Stays Credit, Award Discount

The Delta Gold card can help you earn SkyMiles and receive flight benefits, discounted award flights, and statement credits.

The card is a solid option if you’re an occasional Delta Air Lines flyer and want a card with Delta benefits without a high annual fee.

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card

U.P. Rating

This card provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with a free checked bag, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card

This card provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with a free checked bag, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.

Welcome OfferEarn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
50,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$600

Annual Fee

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

Frequent Delta flyers will love the Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card. The card offers great benefits that will help save you money, effectively mimics low-level elite status with Delta SkyMiles, and helps you earn miles even faster, all for a low annual fee. Let’s dive into the benefits to see if the Delta Gold card is a good fit for your needs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

$100 Delta Stays Credit: You can earn up to $100 back annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com.
Receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit to use toward future travel after you spend $10,000 in purchases in a year.
Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.

Cons

Moderate annual fee
Earn rate for Delta flights is relatively low compared to other travel cards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Enjoy a $0 introductory Annual Fee for the first year, then $150.
Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
$200 Delta Flight Credit: After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you can receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit to use toward future travel.
Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
You can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $70 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four that’s a potential savings of up to $280 per round-trip flight.
Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
$100 Delta Stays Credit: Get up to $100 back per year as a statement credit after using your Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
Take up to $50 off the cost of your flight for every 5,000 miles you redeem with Pay with Miles when you book on delta.com.
Receive a 20% savings in the form of a statement credit on eligible Delta in-flight purchases after using your Card.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
With Send & Split^®, you can send money and split your Card purchases with any other Venmo or PayPal user, directly from the Amex App. Enroll today.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

2x SkyMiles on Delta purchases, at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
Earn $200 flight credit after spending $10,000 in a calendar year on your card
Free checked bag, priority boarding on Delta flights for the cardholder and up to 8 additional travel companions on the same reservation, and a 20% statement credit for qualifying inflight purchases
Earn up to $100 back annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com
Ability to pay for flights using miles (Pay with Miles)
15% discount on award flights purchased with miles

Bottom Line:

The best overall card for the Delta flyer may not be a Delta-branded credit card. Premium travel rewards cards can offer broader lounge access opportunities, greater rewards on travel purchases, flexible redemption options, and premium travel benefits.

The 4 Best Business Credit Cards for Delta Flyers

If your business involves traveling with Delta Air Lines, the benefits of having a rewards card that delivers Delta benefits can be a game changer.

With elevated earnings, perks that can make your travel more comfortable, and money-saving benefits, one of these featured cards could match your situation.

Delta Reserve Business Card — Best Business Card for Sky Club Access, Companion Ticket, Earning SkyMiles, and Flight Upgrade Priority

Business-related travel can be challenging. Having lounge access to break up the journey, flight upgrade priority, and a faster path to elite status can make the Delta Reserve Business card a smart choice.

Having the perk of a first class companion ticket to share your journey adds a reason to consider the card for those who travel on business.

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card

U.P. Rating

Receive priority boarding, complimentary access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges, concierge support, and an annual companion certificate.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card

Receive priority boarding, complimentary access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges, concierge support, and an annual companion certificate.

Welcome OfferWelcome Offer: Earn 80,000 Bonus Miles after spending $10,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
80,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$960

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.24% - 29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card is a premium card option for small business owners who are both frequent travelers and Delta loyalists.

While the annual fee may be steep, the card comes loaded with perks and benefits that all frequent Delta flyers are sure to love. Let’s take a look at what makes the card unique, and why it may be a great fit for your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

3x miles per dollar on Delta purchases
1.5x miles per dollar on eligible transit, U.S. shipping and office supply stores, plus all eligible purchases after you spend $150,000 in a year
Save 15% On Award Travel With TakeOff 15. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.

Cons

High annual fee
Does not earn many miles for purchases outside of Delta spend

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Welcome Offer: Earn 80,000 Bonus Miles after spending $10,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Enter Delta Sky Club^® at no cost. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
Earn 3 miles per dollar on eligible Delta purchases.
Get closer to elevated Status next Medallion^® Year with MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 on purchases with your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card.
Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+^®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
With the $240 Resy Credit, earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
Save 15% when booking Award Travel on Delta flights. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
Not a Medallion Member? Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
As a benefit of Card Membership, you can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $70 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four that’s a potential savings of up to $280 per round-trip flight.
When you purchase a Delta flight with your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business Card, you will receive complimentary access to The Centurion^® Lounge or Escape Lounge – The Centurion^® Studio Partner.
Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
Elevate your travel experience with an annual statement credit of up to $250 after using your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
Enjoy travel without foreign transaction fees from American Express with your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card.
Terms and limitations apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 20.24% - 29.24% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

3x miles on Delta purchases
Flight benefits, including priority for complimentary upgrades, a free checked bag, priority boarding, and a 20% inflight food/beverage purchase statement credit
Sky Club access for 15 days each year when traveling on the same day with Delta Air Lines
An annual companion certificate valid on first class, Comfort+, or main cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal of your card
Receive $2,500 MQDs each Medallion Qualification Year for having the card; earn additional MQDs through spending with 1 MQD earned toward elite status for each $10 of purchases on the card
Use Delta SkyMiles to offset the cost of eligible Delta flights; each 5,000 miles is worth $50 toward the flight purchase when you use Pay With Miles (for example, you could use 20,000 miles to reduce the purchase price of a ticket by $200)

Amex Business Platinum Card — Best Business Card for Lounge Access, Flexible Rewards

If you travel on multiple airlines and want premium travel benefits plus Delta Air Lines benefits, the Amex Business Platinum card may be a good option.

ELEVATED OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Welcome OfferEarn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
150,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$3,300

Annual Fee

$695

APR

18.74% - 27.74% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Pros & Cons

Pros

5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)

Cons

High annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)
Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
5X Membership Rewards^® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card^®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card^®, here.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
$199 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR^® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card^®.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
$695 Annual Fee.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 18.74% - 27.74% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 250k points with the Amex Business Platinum card. The current public offer is 150,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

Why We Like the Card for Delta Air Line Flyers

5x Membership Rewards points on flights purchased from Delta Air Lines or AmexTravel.com
Complimentary access for cardholders to the Delta Sky Club with a same-day ticket flying Delta Air Lines
Access to over 1,400 lounges worldwide in the American Express Global Lounge Collection
Transfer Membership Rewards points earned on the card to SkyTeam partners and redeem them for Delta Air Lines flights
Redeem rewards for premium Delta flights and receive a 35% point rebate
Redeem points via AmexTravel.com for Delta Air Lines flights
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement
Up to $199 CLEAR Plus statement credit
Up to $200 airline incidental fee credit each year that can be used on Delta Air Lines so long as you select Delta as your qualifying airline

Hot Tip:

If worldwide lounge access is important to you, the Amex Platinum card or Amex Business Platinum card should be at the top of your consideration list. The cards offer unlimited complimentary cardholder access to over 1,400 global lounges and a long list of additional luxury travel benefits.

Delta Platinum Business Card — Best Business Card for Earning SkyMiles on Delta and Large Business Purchases, Companion Ticket, Statement Credits, and Award Discount

The Delta Platinum Business card rewards those who spend on the card with elevated earnings on Delta and statement credits for select purchases.

It’s a card that can help you save hundreds of dollars on travel with Delta Stay credits, discounted award travel, ride-share, and dining credits.

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card

U.P. Rating

Between great perks and the potential to earn plenty of SkyMiles, this card is a must-have for frequent Delta travelers.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card

Between great perks and the potential to earn plenty of SkyMiles, this card is a must-have for frequent Delta travelers.

Welcome OfferWelcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after spending $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
70,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$840

Annual Fee

$350

APR

20.24% - 29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

Small business owners and frequent Delta flyers can make the Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card your go-to credit card.

Cardholders earn 3x SkyMiles per dollar for purchases with Delta and access benefits, including no foreign transaction fees, priority boarding, and a free checked bag for each flight (rates & fees).

Plus, you can redeem your SkyMiles for travel on Delta and its partner airlines, saving you money. It’s a no-brainer!

Pros & Cons

Pros

Save 15% on award travel With TakeOff 15. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees
3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on Delta and hotel purchases
1.5x SkyMiles per $1 spent on purchases of $5,000 or more, up to $100,000 per year

Cons

$350 annual fee
Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after spending $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Enjoy a Companion Certificate each year after renewal of your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of the government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
Earn 1.5X miles* on eligible transit and U.S. shipping purchases, plus single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more. Terms and miles cap apply. *If your purchase qualifies for a category that has a higher mileage accelerator, only the higher accelerator will apply.
Get closer to elevated Status next Medallion^® Year with MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $20 of purchases with your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card.
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card Members save 15% when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
With the $120 Resy Credit, earn up to $10 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
Not a Medallion Member? Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members.
Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
Elevate your travel experience with an annual statement credit of up to $200 after using your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
Terms and limitations apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 20.24% - 29.24% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta Air Lines SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

Why We Like the Card for Delta Air Lines Flyers

3x miles on Delta purchases and 1.5x miles on select business purchases
Receive a free checked bag, priority boarding, upgrade priority after elite members, and a 20% inflight food/beverage purchase statement credit
Companion certificate each year valid on main cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal of your card; taxes apply
Up to $200 statement credit after using your card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com
Save 15% when using miles to book award travel
Receive $2,500 MQDs each Medallion Qualification Year for having the card.; earn additional MQDs through spending with 1 MQD earned for each $20 of purchases on the card
Up to $120 Resy credits each year, up to $10 monthly in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases
Annual $120 ride-share credit of up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. ride-share purchases with select providers after you pay with your enrolled card

Delta Gold Business Card — Best Business Card for a Lower Annual Fee, Earning SkyMiles, Statement Credits, and Award Discount

The Delta Gold Business card can be a practical choice for the business owner. Elevated earning on the card applies to select business purchases and Delta purchases, so miles add up quickly.

Flight credits, Delta stay credits, and discounted award tickets can also make the card an economically sound choice for the Delta flyer.

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Gold Business American Express Card

U.P. Rating

Receive 2x SkyMiles on Delta purchases, priority boarding, a free checked bag, and discounted award flights.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Delta SkyMiles^® Gold Business American Express Card

Receive 2x SkyMiles on Delta purchases, priority boarding, a free checked bag, and discounted award flights.

Welcome OfferWelcome Offer: Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after spending $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
60,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$720

Annual Fee

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150

APR

20.24% - 29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

If Delta Air Lines is your first choice for business travel, and you’re always looking for more ways to earn Delta SkyMiles, this could be a great card option.

Being able to board the plane early and check your bag for free makes all the difference for a smooth flight. Plus, getting discounts on inflight purchases keeps money in your pocket and your small business.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Save 15% On Award Travel With TakeOff 15. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
2x SkyMiles per $1 on purchases made directly with Delta and at restaurants
2x SkyMiles per $1 on U.S. purchases for advertising in select media and on U.S. shipping purchases on up to $50,000 in eligible purchases per category, per year.

Cons

Doesn’t earn transferable rewards
Doesn’t offer as many perks for rewards as other Delta cards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Welcome Offer: Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after spending $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
Card Members save 15% when booking Award Travel with miles on Delta flights when using delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
Additionally, you can receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit to use toward future travel after you spend $10,000 in purchases in a year.
Earn 2 miles per dollar spent on purchases at U.S. Shipping providers and at U.S. providers for Advertising in select media on up to $50,000 of purchases per category, per year.
Earn 2 Miles on every dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Delta and on every eligible dollar spent at restaurants.
Earn 1 Mile on every eligible dollar spent on other purchases.
Check and stow your bag with ease: First Checked Bag Free on Delta Flights + Zone 5 Priority Boarding.
Elevate your travel experience with an annual statement credit of up to $150 after using your Delta SkyMiles^® Gold Business American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
Receive a 20% savings in the form of a statement credit on eligible Delta in-flight purchases after using your Card.
Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel overseas.
Terms and limitations apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 20.24% - 29.24% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

Why We Like the Card for Delta Flyers

Lower annual fee that is waived the first year
2x miles on Delta and on select business purchases
First checked bag free on Delta flights, zone 5 priority boarding, and 20% statement credit for eligible inflight purchases
Receive a $200 Delta flight credit to use toward future travel after you spend $10,000 in purchases in a year on your card
Save 15% when booking award travel with miles
Up to $150 statement credit after using your card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com

Earning Delta Air Lines Medallion Elite Status With Delta Credit Cards

For those Delta flyers who strive for Delta Medallion elite status, having a credit card that accelerates the process can be valuable. The benefits of airline elite status include free checked bags, priority boarding, complimentary upgrades, and access to dedicated assistance.

Having a Delta credit card alone will not give you elite status, but a Delta-branded card can help you earn elite status.

To reach Medallion elite status, you must earn the specified number of Medallion Qualification Dollars, or MQDs, each calendar year.

Silver: $5,000 MQDs
Gold: $10,000 MQDs
Platinum: $15,000 MQDs
Diamond: $28,000 MQDs

You can earn MQDs toward Medallion elite status in several ways, including spending on Delta and Delta-marketed partner flights, Delta vacation packages, and with eligible Delta-branded credit cards.

Earning MQDs by Spending on Delta Credit Cards

You will receive 2,500 MQDs toward elite status, each Medallion Qualification year you have the Delta Platinum card, Delta Platinum Business card, Delta Reserve card, or Delta Reserve Business card.

You will earn 2,500 MQDs for each of these cards you have.

In addition, spending on your Delta branded card will earn MQDs:

Earn 1 MQD for each $20 in purchases on the Delta Platinum card or Delta Platinum Business card
Earn 1 MQD for each $10 in purchases on the Delta Reserve card or Delta Reserve Business card

Bottom Line:

The Delta Reserve card, Delta Reserve Business card, Delta Platinum card, and Delta Platinum Business card can help you reach Medallion elite status faster. Cardholders receive 2,500 MQDs each year, per card, toward elite status and earn MQDs when spending on the cards.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a Delta frequent flyer and can utilize the benefits of any of these credit cards, it makes sense to be a cardholder. Gaining complimentary lounge access, earning MQDs toward elite status, receiving upgrade priority, and saving on a companion ticket each year are all benefits that deliver value.

And while Delta credit card welcome bonus offers vary, you can usually count on thousands of bonus SkyMiles after card approval for a Delta-branded card and meeting the initial minimum spending requirements. Welcome offers can easily offset any first-year annual fee.

The Delta Reserve card is the best Delta-branded credit card for Delta flyers. It comes with a higher annual fee, but several key benefits make it a good choice: Delta Sky Club access, a first class companion certificate each year, and upgrade priority, for example.

If you travel frequently, fly on several airlines, and value global lounge access, you may fare better with a premium travel rewards credit card like the Amex Platinum card, another good choice for Delta frequent flyers.

For the cell phone protection benefit of the Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees of The Platinum Card^® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees for the Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles^® Gold Business American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card, click here.

Card	Welcome Offer and Annual Fee	Earning Rates and Delta Benefits
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card	70,000 miles Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Annual fee of $650 (rates & fees)	1x-3x miles Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Earn 3x SkyMiles on purchases made directly with Delta Earn 1x SkyMiles on other eligible purchases Free checked bag, priority boarding, 20% inflight food/beverage purchase statement credit Annual companion certificate Complimentary Delta Sky Club access for cardholders when flying the same day on Delta*
The Platinum Card^® from American Express	80,000 points The Platinum Card^® from American Express Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)	1x-5x points The Platinum Card^® from American Express Earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year Earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel Earn 1X Membership Rewards^® Point on other purchases Up to $200 airline incidental credit Complimentary Delta Sky Club access for cardholders when flying the same day on Delta* Access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges upon enrollment
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card	60,000 miles Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Annual fee of $350 (rates & fees)	1x-3x miles Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card Earn 3X SkyMiles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels. Earn 2X SkyMiles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets. Earn 1X SkyMiles on all other eligible purchases. Free checked bag, priority boarding, 20% inflight food/beverage purchase statement credit Annual companion certificate
Chase Sapphire Reserve^®	Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months. $550	1x-10x points Chase Sapphire Reserve^® Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases Up to $300 annual travel statement credit Priority Pass Select Membership for worldwide lounge access
Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card	50,000 miles Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Annual fee of $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 (rates & fees)	1x-2x miles Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card Earn 2X SkyMiles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 1X SkyMiles on all other eligible purchases. Free checked bag, priority boarding, 20% inflight food/beverage purchase statement credit
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card	80,000 miles Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card Welcome Offer: Earn 80,000 Bonus Miles after spending $10,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Annual fee of $650 (rates & fees)	1x-3x miles Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card Earn 3x SkyMiles on purchases made directly with Delta Earn 1.5x SkyMiles on eligible transit, U.S. shipping & office supply store purchases Earn 1x SkyMiles on other purchases Free checked bag, priority boarding, 20% inflight food/beverage purchase statement credit Annual companion certificate Complimentary Delta Sky Club access for cardholders when flying the same day on Delta*
The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express	ELEVATED OFFER150,000 points The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)	1x-5x points The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express Earn 5X Membership Rewards^® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and Earn 1.5X points on each eligible purchase at: U.S. construction material Hardware suppliers Electronic goods retailers Software & cloud system providers Shipping providers Earn 1.5X points on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus. Earn 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases. Complimentary Delta Sky Club access for cardholders when flying the same day on Delta* Access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges upon enrollment
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card	70,000 miles Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after spending $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Annual fee of $350 (rates & fees)	1x-3x miles Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card Earn 3x SkyMiles spent on purchases made directly with Delta and hotels Earn 1.5x SkyMiles on eligible transit and U.S. shipping purchases, plus single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more. Terms and miles cap apply. If your purchase qualifies for a category that has a higher mileage accelerator, only the higher accelerator will apply. Earn 1x SkyMiles on other purchases Free checked bag, priority boarding, 20% inflight food/beverage purchase statement credit Annual companion certificate*
Delta SkyMiles^® Gold Business American Express Card	60,000 miles Delta SkyMiles^® Gold Business American Express Card Welcome Offer: Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after spending $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Annual fee of $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 (rates & fees)	1x-2x miles Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card Earn 2X SkyMiles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 1X SkyMiles on all other eligible purchases. Free checked bag, priority boarding, 20% inflight food/beverage purchase statement credit

Table of Contents

Upgraded Points: Expertise You Can Trust

The U.P. Rating System

Best Overall Credit Cards for Delta Air Lines Flyers

Card Summary

The 5 Best Personal Cards for Delta Flyers

Delta Reserve Card — Best for Sky Club Access, Companion Ticket, Earning SkyMiles, and Flight Upgrade Priority

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

Why We Like the Card for Delta Flyers

Amex Platinum Card — Best for Lounge Access, Flexible Rewards, Travel Insurance Benefits

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

Why We Like the Card for Delta Flyers

Delta Platinum Card — Best for Earning SkyMiles, Companion Ticket, Flight Benefits

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

Why We Like the Card for Delta Flyers

Chase Sapphire Reserve Card — Best for Flexible Rewards, Statement Credits, Travel Insurance Benefits

Why We Like the Card for Delta Flyers

Delta Gold Card — Best for a Lower Annual Fee, Delta Stays Credit, Award Discount

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

The 4 Best Business Credit Cards for Delta Flyers

Delta Reserve Business Card — Best Business Card for Sky Club Access, Companion Ticket, Earning SkyMiles, and Flight Upgrade Priority

Amex Business Platinum Card — Best Business Card for Lounge Access, Flexible Rewards

Why We Like the Card for Delta Air Line Flyers

Delta Platinum Business Card — Best Business Card for Earning SkyMiles on Delta and Large Business Purchases, Companion Ticket, Statement Credits, and Award Discount

Why We Like the Card for Delta Air Lines Flyers

Delta Gold Business Card — Best Business Card for a Lower Annual Fee, Earning SkyMiles, Statement Credits, and Award Discount

Why We Like the Card for Delta Flyers

Earning Delta Air Lines Medallion Elite Status With Delta Credit Cards

Earning MQDs by Spending on Delta Credit Cards

Final Thoughts