The Best Credit Cards for United Airlines Flyers in 2025 [Lounges, Upgrades, Priority Boarding & More]

If you fly any airline frequently, you’ll benefit from having its branded credit card.

Doing so can provide valuable perks including free checked bags, discounted or complimentary lounge access, priority boarding, upgraded seating, and quicker trips through security. You also earn frequent flyer miles quickly, allowing you to book award flights faster.

Having a United-branded credit card can deliver all these benefits and more. Even if you traveled just a few times a year, you’d find value in a United-branded card.

You’re probably wondering, however, which United credit card is best for your situation or if other travel rewards cards could be a better fit for the United flyer.

We’ve assembled the best cards available for United flyers and will expand on the benefits for each card so you can see which card might be best for you.

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Best Overall Cards for United Flyers

• The New United Club℠ Card — Best Overall Personal United Card
• The New United Quest℠ Card — Earning United Miles, Flight Benefits, Flight Statement Credits, Award Flight Discounts
• The New United℠ Explorer Card — Best for a Lower Annual Fee, Flight Benefits, Limited United Club Access
• Platinum Card^® from American Express — Best for Global Lounge Access, Earning on Purchased Flights, Redeeming Flexible Rewards for United Flights
• Chase Sapphire Reserve^® — Best for Redeeming Flexible Rewards for United Flights, Statement Credits for Travel Purchases, Travel Insurance Benefits
• The New United Club℠ Business Card — Best Overall Business United Card
• The New United℠ Business Card — Best for Small Businesses, Lower Annual Fee, Earning United Miles, Flight Benefits
• The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express — Best for Global Lounge Access, Earning on Purchased Flights

The 8 Best Cards for United Flyers — Overview

Best Personal Cards for United Flyers

If you’re a frequent United flyer, selecting the best personal card to receive the most value would be the first step to earning more miles, making your trip more comfortable and receiving travel benefits you can use.

Always get a card with an annual fee you’re comfortable paying.

Here are some of the best personal cards for United flyers.

United Club Card — Best Overall Personal United Card

The New United Club℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.

The New United Club℠ Card

Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.

Welcome Offer

Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

80,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$960

Annual Fee

$695

APR

20.24% - 28.74% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The New United Club℠ Card is a premium card designed for the most dedicated of United frequent flyers who are looking for a card that provides the opportunity to earn extra United MileagePlus miles and receive lounge access via a yearly United Club membership.

United frequent flyers will find that the United Club card provides an enhanced experience on their United flights thanks to the money saved on each flight and the conveniences it provides.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4x miles per $1 on United purchases
• 2x miles per $1 on travel and dining purchases
• Complimentary United Club membership

Cons

• $695 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 80,000 bonus miles
• 4x miles on United^® purchases
• 2x miles on dining and all other travel
• 1x mile on all other purchases
• United Club℠ card membership - at least a $750 value
• Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and Premier Access^® travel services
• Earn a 10,000-mile award flight discount after $20,000 in purchases to use toward an eligible award flight - up to two times each calendar year
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24% - 28.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The United Club card comes with complimentary United Club lounge access, stellar 4x earnings on United purchases, a faster path to elite status, and upgrade priority on United flights over those who don’t hold the card. The card also comes with expanded award availability.

It’s the best overall United-branded card for the frequent United flyer.

Why We Like the Card for United Flyers

• 4x earnings on United purchases
• Complimentary United Club access
• Earn PQP points toward United Premier elite status (up to Premier 1K^® status — 28,000 PQP)
• Upgrade priority over passengers without the card
• 2 free checked bags for you and 1 travel companion on the same reservation
• United Premier Access benefits include priority boarding, priority seat selection, priority security lane, and priority baggage handling for the cardholder and traveling companions on the same reservation
• Up to 20,000 miles in award flight discounts (10,000 mile discount after spending $20,000, up to 2 times a year)

United Quest Card — Earning United Miles, Flight Benefits, Flight Statement Credits, Award Flight Discounts

The New United Quest℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.

The New United Quest℠ Card

The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.

Welcome Offer

Earn 70,000 bonus miles and 1,000 Premier qualifying points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

70,000 miles + 1,000 PQP

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$840

Annual Fee

$350

APR

20.24% - 28.74% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

Enter: The New United Quest℠ Card. With it, you can bolster your United MileagePlus miles, thanks to the bonus categories, while enjoying the card’s many perks designed to help save you money on each United flight.

With an annual fee that falls between The New United℠ Explorer Card and The New United Club℠ Card, the United Quest card makes for a fantastic card option for United frequent flyers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x miles on stays through Renowned Hotels and Resorts
• 3x miles per $1 on United purchases
• 2x miles per $1 spent on travel, dining, and select streaming services

Cons

• Does not earn transferable rewards
• Does not offer airport lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 70,000 bonus miles and 1,000 PQP
• 3x miles on United^® purchases
• 2x miles on dining, select streaming services, and all other travel
• 1x mile on all other purchases
• Receive a $200 United^® travel credit and 10,000-mile award flight discount on each account anniversary
• Earn a 10,000-mile eligible award flight discount after spending $20,000 each calendar year
• Earn 2 global Economy Plus^® seat upgrades after spending $40,000 on purchases each calendar year
• Get a jump start on earning Premier status with 1,000 Card Bonus PQP each year, awarded within 6 to 8 weeks after February 1 each year, starting in 2026.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24% - 28.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The United Quest card is best for a generous welcome offer, elevated 3x earnings on United purchases, and a faster path to Premier elite status. We also like that the card earns big on travel, restaurants, and streaming services.

Use the card for United purchases and receive an annual statement credit and discounted award flights each card anniversary year.

Why We Like the Card for United Flyers

• Earn 3x miles on United purchases and 2x miles on travel, dining, and streaming services
• 2 free checked bags for you and 1 travel companion
• Priority boarding for you and your travel companions on the same reservation
• Earn PQP credits toward elite status by spending on the card (up to Platinum status — 18,000 PQP)
• Receive $200 in United TravelBank cash annually for use on United flight purchases
• A 10,000-mile credit each card anniversary year to use for award flights
• 2 global Economy Plus seat upgrades after spending $40,000 on purchases each calendar year

United Explorer Card — Best for a Lower Annual Fee, Flight Benefits, Limited United Club Access

The New United℠ Explorer Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.

The New United℠ Explorer Card

With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

60,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$720

Annual Fee

$150

APR

20.24% - 28.74% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

You travel United all the time, but you have heard that there could be ways to make your travel experiences even better, including priority boarding, free bags, and more miles.

You should consider The New United℠ Explorer Card, because this card does all that and more!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x total miles per $1 on hotel stays through United Hotels
• 2x miles per $1 on United purchases, dining purchases (including delivery services), and hotel stays
• 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $150
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus miles
• $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
• 2x miles on United^® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel
• Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club℠ with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary
• Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
• Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck^® or NEXUS fee credit
• Earn a $100 United travel credit after spending $10,000 on purchases with your United℠ Explorer Card within a calendar year
• Over $500 in partner credits each year
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24% - 28.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

United MileagePlus Frequent Flyer Program

We like that this card has a lower annual fee yet still comes with flight benefits and 2 United Club passes each anniversary year.

The United Explorer card is perfect for the occasional United traveler who wants to earn miles to use toward award flights and enjoy flight benefits.

• Earn 2x miles on United, hotels, and dining
• A free checked bag for you and 1 travel companion on the same reservation
• Priority boarding for you and your travel companions on the same reservation
• 2 single, 1-time-use United Club passes each card anniversary year (the primary cardholder or an authorized user must be present to use the passes)
• Earn up to 1,000 PQP each year toward elite status by spending on the card

In addition to the above list of benefits, each personal United-branded cardholder can enjoy a 25% statement credit on inflight food and beverage purchases and expanded award flight availability. Plus, you’ll find valuable travel insurance coverages and shopping benefits and protections that vary by card.

There are also various annual credits available, with the type and amount depending on the United-branded card, for hotel stays, car rentals, ride-share, and more.

Actual benefits and the terms and conditions can be found in the specific card’s guide to benefits.

Amex Platinum Card — Best for Global Lounge Access, Earning on Flights, Redeeming Flexible Rewards for United Flights

+ NEW BENEFITS

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

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

Apply Now(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.

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 Offer

You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

As High As 175,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $3,850

Annual Fee

$895

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

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 1,550 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), 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

• $895 annual fee (rates and fees)
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
• Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards^® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel^®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts^® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel^® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
• More Value! With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection^®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club^® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges. * As of 07/2025.
• More Value! $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card^® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card^® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
• More Value! $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $25 in statement credits each month after you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card^® at participating partners. Enrollment required.
• More Value! $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel^® using the Platinum Card^®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• New! $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: When you use the Platinum Card^® to pay at U.S. Resy restaurants and to make other eligible purchases through Resy, you can get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter with the $400 Resy Credit benefit. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card^®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you, enrollment required.
• More Value! $209 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR Plus Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR Plus with the Platinum Card^®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card^® Account*. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
• Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts^® through American Express Travel^®, enjoy noon check-in upon arrival, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
• New! $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card^® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card^®.*Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
• $100 Saks Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue or saks.com on the Platinum Card^®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits from January through June and up to $50 in statement credits from July through December. No minimum purchase required. Enrollment required.
• Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
• $895 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

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

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Several premium rewards cards offer better earnings and more benefits for the frequent traveler who travels with other airlines, in addition to United.

The Amex Platinum card is among the best premium travel rewards cards for frequent flyers.

Why We Like the Card for United Flyers

• Earn 5x Membership Rewards points on flights purchased directly from airlines or via AmexTravel.com, which includes United flights, on up to $500,000 in purchases per calendar year
• Complimentary access to over 1,550 lounges worldwide in the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including access to the prestigious Centurion Lounge network and Priority Pass Select membership upon enrollment
• Transfer Membership Rewards points earned on the card to Star Alliance partners and redeem them for United flights
• Redeem points via AmexTravel.com for United flights
• Up to $200 airline incidental fee credit each year so long as you select United Airlines as your qualifying airline when you enroll in the benefit

Hot Tip: If worldwide lounge access is a top priority and you fly several different airlines, the Amex Platinum card should be at the top of your list of cards to consider. The card offers a long list of luxury travel benefits and complimentary cardholder access to over 1,550 worldwide lounges. 

Chase Sapphire Reserve Card — Best for Earning and Redeeming Flexible Rewards for United Flights, Statement Credits for Travel Purchases, Travel Insurance Benefits

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

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

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

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

Welcome Offer

Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

125,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$2,500

Annual Fee

$795

APR

19.99% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Excellent

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.

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

Don’t forget the more than $2,000 in annual credits, which can offset the annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 8x points on all Chase Travel purchases
• 5x points on Lyft rides
• 4x points on flights and hotels booked directly

Cons

• $795 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
• Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
• $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge^® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^® every 4 years
• Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
• Get complimentary Apple TV+, the exclusive streaming home of Apple Originals. Plus Apple Music — all the music you love, across all your devices. Subscriptions run through 6/22/27 — a value of $250 annually
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Earning flexible rewards points is a key advantage of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card. You earn well on flight and travel purchases and receive elevated value at redemption time.

The card works well for frequent travelers who may have United Premier elite status yet travel on several airlines.

The card is also known for its excellent collection of travel insurance benefits.

Why We Like the Card for United Flyers

• 8x Ultimate Rewards points on all purchases via the Chase Travel portal
• 4x points on all flight purchases, not purchased via Chase Travel, including United flights purchased directly with the airline
• Ultimate Rewards can be redeemed for more value to book United flights directly through Chase Travel
• Transfer points to United MileagePlus to book award flights
• Priority Pass lounge membership with access for the cardholder and up to 2 guests to over 1,300 properties worldwide (enrollment required)
• $300 annual travel credit (can be used on United)
• The card comes with several premium travel insurance benefits

Best Business Cards for United Flyers

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, the perks offered on a United business credit card can make your trip more comfortable and even save you money.

Even small businesses can earn United miles quickly with a United-branded business card.

Here are some of the best business cards for United flyers.

United Club Business Card — Best Overall United Business Card

LIMITED TIME OFFER

The New United Club℠ Business Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The United Club Business card is a great option for frequent United flyers looking for United Club access.

The New United Club℠ Business Card

The United Club Business card is a great option for frequent United flyers looking for United Club access.

Welcome Offer

Earn 100,000 United MileagePlus bonus miles and 2,000 PQP after spending $5,000 on qualifying purchases in the first three months of opening an account.

100,000 miles + 2,000 PQP

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$695

APR

20.49%-28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The New United Club℠ Business Card is a premium card option for dedicated United loyalists seeking a card that offers complimentary United Club access, helps them earn and retain status, and doesn’t skip on the benefits.

From free checked bags to upgrades on award tickets and the ability to earn Premier qualifying points, there is plenty to the United Club Business card that United flyers are sure to love.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x miles per $1 spent on United purchases
• 1.5x miles per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Complimentary United Club membership

Cons

• $695 annual fee
• Earning rate for United purchases is poor compared to other United cards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 100,000 bonus miles plus 2,000 PQP after spending $5,000 on qualifying purchases in the first three months of opening an account
• Earn 2x miles on United purchases
• Earn 1.5x miles on all other purchases
• Earn 5x miles on stays purchased through Renowned Hotels and Resorts for United^® Cardmembers
• Employee cards at no additional cost
• United Club℠ membership included – at least a $750 value per year – with the ability to unlock United Club All Access Membership
• Earn 2 global Economy Plus^® seat upgrades each year
• Free first and second checked bags for you and a companion, save up to $320 per round-trip
• Up to $50 in credits on United FareLock purchases annually
• Up to $200 in credits on Renowned Hotels and Resorts for United^® Cardmembers annually
• Up to $150 in credits on rideshare purchases annually
• Up to $100 in United travel credits on Avis or Budget purchases annually
• Up to $200 in credits on JSX purchases annually
• 25% back on United inflight purchases
• No foreign transaction fees
• Complimentary Instacart+ Membership (terms apply)
• Up to $240 in Instacart credits annually (terms apply)

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.49%-28.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: $0

Business travelers will welcome the complimentary United Club lounge access and upgrade priority on United flights. They’ll also receive complimentary upgrades on United award tickets. Miles will accumulate quickly as business owners receive 1.5x earnings on all non-United business purchases and earn PQP toward Premier elite status by spending on the card.

• Earn 2x miles on all United purchases and 1.5x miles on all other purchases
• 2 free checked bags for you and 1 travel companion
• United Premier Access benefits include priority boarding, priority seat selection, priority security lane and priority baggage handling for the cardmember and traveling companions on the same reservation.
• Complimentary United Club access
• Earn PQP toward elite status (up to Premier 1K^® status — 28,000 PQP)

United Business Card — Best for Small Businesses, Lower Annual Fee, Earning United Miles, Flight Benefits

LIMITED TIME OFFER

The New United℠ Business Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A business card from Chase for United loyalists with benefits such as free checked bags and discounts on inflight purchases.

The New United℠ Business Card

A business card from Chase for United loyalists with benefits such as free checked bags and discounts on inflight purchases.

Welcome Offer

Earn 100,000 United MileagePlus bonus miles and 2,000 PQP after spending $5,000 on qualifying purchases in the first three months of opening an account.

100,000 miles + 2,000 PQP

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$150

APR

20.24% - 28.74% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The New United℠ Business Card is a compelling option for traveling business owners that are also frequent United flyers. Not only will this Chase business card help you earn more United miles, but it also offers great perks such as free checked bags, priority boarding, a discount on inflight purchases, and much more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x miles per $1 on United purchases
• 2x miles per $1 on dining
• 2x miles per $1 at gas stations and office supply stores, and on local transit and commuting

Cons

• Doesn’t earn transferable rewards
• Other United cards are more rewarding for United purchases

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Limited-time offer: Earn 100,000 bonus miles and 2,000 PQP after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
• $150 Annual Fee.
• 2x miles on United^® purchases, dining including eligible delivery services, at gas stations, office supply stores, and on local transit and commuting.
• 1x mile on all other purchases. Plus, employee cards at no additional cost - miles earned from their purchases accrue in your account so you can earn rewards faster.
• Receive a 5,000-mile "better together" bonus each anniversary when you have both the United℠ Business Card and a personal Chase United^® credit card.
• Enjoy a free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip (terms apply), 2 United Club℠ one-time passes per year, and priority boarding privileges.
• Receive a $125 United travel credit after making 5 United^® flight purchases of $100 or more each calendar year with your United℠ Business Card.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24% - 28.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The United Business card pairs well with a United-branded personal card. So well that you receive 5,000 miles each card anniversary for having both cards. Additionally, there’s a generous welcome offer and even elevated earnings on specific business categories. The card offers limited United Club passes each year.

Why We Like the Card for United Flyers

• Earn 2x miles on United purchases, dining, gas stations, office supply stores, transit and commuting.
• A free checked bag for you and 1 travel companion on the same reservation
• Priority boarding for you and your travel companions on the same reservation
• 2 single, 1-time-use United Club passes each card anniversary year (the primary cardholder or an authorized user must be present to use the passes)
• $125 of United TravelBank cash each year after 5 United flight-related purchases of $100 or more
• Up to $25 back as a statement credit each year for FareLock purchases

In addition to priority flight benefits, all United card members of the above cards receive a 25% statement credit for inflight food and beverage purchases. They also have the ability to receive hotel, car rental, ride-share, and other credits.

Amex Business Platinum Card — Best for Global Lounge Access, Earning on Purchased Flights

ELEVATED WELCOME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

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

Apply Now(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 Offer

Earn 150,000 200,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.

150,000 200,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $4,400

Annual Fee

$895

APR

18.24% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

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 1,550 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Earn 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on eligible travel purchases like flights, prepaid hotels, and prepaid short-term rentals booked through AmexTravel.com
• Access to over 1,550 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Earn 2x Membership Rewards points on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (on up to $2 million per calendar year)

Cons

• High annual fee of $895 (rates & fees)
• Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Elevated Welcome Offer: Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Platinum Card^® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,550 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card company on the market as of 07/2025.
• See how you can unlock over $3,500 in business and travel value annually after meeting qualifying spend thresholds on the Business Platinum Card. Terms apply.
• New! Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using the Business Platinum Card^®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• No Preset Spending Limit: The spending limit on the Business Platinum Card is flexible, so unlike a traditional credit card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment and credit history.
• Make the Business Platinum Card^® work even harder for you. Hilton For Business members get up to $200 back per calendar year when you make an eligible purchase at Hilton properties across the globe. Benefit enrollment required.
• Fly like a pro with a $200 Airline Fee Credit. Select one qualifying airline to receive up to $200 back per year on baggage fees and other incidentals.
• Use the Business Platinum Card and get up to $209 back per calendar year on your CLEAR^® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal).
• Maximize your time away with Fine Hotels + Resorts through Amex Travel™.
• New! Enroll and get up to $150 in statement credits on U.S purchases directly with Dell Technologies on the Business Platinum Card and an additional $1,000 statement credit after you spend $5,000 or more on that same Card per calendar year.
• New! Enroll and get a $250 statement credit after you spend $600 or more on U.S. purchases directly with Adobe per calendar year on the Business Platinum Card.
• Get up to $90 in statement credits quarterly for purchases with Indeed on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $360 back per year. Enrollment required.
• Get up to $10 in statement credits per month for wireless telephone service purchases made directly with a wireless provider in the U.S. on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $120 back per year. Enrollment required.
• Enhanced! 2X points on purchases at U.S. construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
• 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com
• 1X points on other eligible purchases
• $895 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 18.24% - 28.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

The Amex Business Platinum card suits the frequent business traveler who values premium travel benefits. We like the card for its global lounge access, expedited security program fee reimbursement, and elevated earnings on flight purchases.

Add in all the savings from statement credits for select purchases, and the card is an economically sound choice.

Why We Like the Card for United Flyers:

• 5x Membership Rewards Points on United flights purchased via AmexTravel.com
• Complimentary access to over 1,550 lounge properties worldwide, including the prestigious Centurion Lounge network
• Utilize American Express transfer partners such as Air Canada, ANA, or Singapore Airlines to transfer Membership Rewards points and book United flights
• 35% points rebate when using Pay With Points on flights from your airline of choice (up to 1,000,000 bonus points per calendar year)
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement
• Up to $209 CLEAR^® Plus statement credit
• Up to $200 airline incidental fee credit each year (can be used on United when United is your pre-selected airline)

Hot Tip:

The Bilt Mastercard (rates & fees) was designed to help renters earn Bilt Rewards Points on their rent payments without a transaction fee. Cardholders must make 5 purchases each statement period to earn these bonus points (rewards & benefits). Bilt Rewards points transfer at a 1:1 ratio almost immediately to United.

Earning United Premier Elite Status and Upgrade Priority With United Credit Cards

Qualifying for United Premier Elite Status

There are several benefits to having elite status in United’s MileagePlus frequent flyer program.

United MileagePlus Premier elite status can help you receive a better seat and priority boarding. Other benefits of having Premier elite status include allowing you to earn bonus frequent flyer miles based on your Premier status level. Priority boarding and fee waivers also add to the benefits.

Let’s look at what it takes to earn United MileagePlus Premier status in 2025.

How United Credit Cards Help You Qualify for Status

United credit cardholders receive a faster path to MileagePlus Premier status. Cardholders can earn Premier qualifying points, or PQPs, through their annual credit card spending and apply these earned PQPs toward any Premier elite status up to Premier 1K level.

• The United Explorer card earns 1 PQP for every $20 spent, up to 1,000 PQPs annually.
• The United Business card earns 1 PQP for every $20 spent, up to 4,000 PQPs annually.
• The United Quest card earns 1 PQP for every $20 spent, up to 18,000 PQPs annually.
• The United Club Business card earns 1 PQP for every $15 spent, up to 28,000 PQPs annually.
• The United Club card earns 1 PQP for every $15 spent, up to 28,000 PQPs annually.

United Credit Cards for Elevated Upgrade Priority

United Club cardholders (business and personal versions) who are Premier members receive seat upgrade priority over passengers in the same Premier level.

For example, with United Premier Silver status and a United Club card or United Club Business card, you have upgrade priority over a passenger who is also United Premier Silver but doesn’t hold either United Club card.

Here’s the hierarchy for upgrade priority:

1. PlusPoints Upgrades and MileagePlus Upgrade Awards
2. Premier status of the traveler
3. Fare class
4. Chase United Club cardholders and Presidential Plus cardholders (no longer available to new applicants)
5. United corporate travelers
6. Chase United cardholders with $25,000 spent on the card in the calendar year
7. Date and time of the upgrade request

All qualifying Premier elite United cardholders are eligible for upgrades on United award tickets.

Qualifying United cardholders should sign into their MileagePlus account before searching for flights, as United cardholders (and elite members) receive expanded access to more award flights.

For more information on how to get upgraded on United, check out our informative guide.

Bottom Line: United’s core credit cards offer plenty of flight benefits, expanded award flight availability, and a faster path to Premier status. The cards also offer accelerated earnings per $1 spent on United purchases.

Final Thoughts

If you travel even a few times a year on United, you could benefit from a United-branded credit card. Additionally, if you are currently paying for a United Club annual membership, a United Club card with complimentary lounge access could be an appropriate and economical choice.

If you travel enough with United to qualify for MileagePlus Premier status, you may already be receiving benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and other flight benefits. You may not gain a lot of additional value from a United-branded card.

If you frequently fly on other airlines in addition to United, pay for an annual lounge membership, and spend a lot on travel in general, having just a United credit card may not be the best choice. A premium travel rewards credit card could be a better fit.