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The 10 Best Chase Credit Cards for Military Members [2025]

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Christine Krzyszton
Edited by: Michael Y. Park
& Keri Stooksbury
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Joining the military and protecting our country requires dedication and also entails significant sacrifices. Whether it’s time away from family, long hours of training, or the potential financial challenges, the demands of serving can be many.

While there aren’t many obvious benefits associated with such a commitment, a portion of the financial challenge was addressed years ago with the passage of the Military Lending Act, or MLA. The legislation affects and limits the costs of debt incurred by service members during active duty, including interest rates on credit cards.

Major credit card issuers typically adhere to the letter of the law by waiving fees, including the annual fee, on credit cards for qualifying active-duty military personnel. Chase is one of the financial institutions that provides this benefit. This means that Chase’s premium travel rewards credit cards, which can come with high annual fees and valuable benefits, can offer significant economic value for active-duty military members.

In today’s article, we will briefly discuss Chase MLA benefits, how to apply, and which Chase cards may be best suited for active-duty military members.

Chase MLA Benefits for Active-Duty Military Members

The MLA applies to debt, including credit card debt, incurred during active-duty service only. Chase applies the law to personal consumer cards by limiting interest rates and waiving fees.

Let’s start by looking at some of the credit card benefits you could qualify for with Chase.

  • Annual fees and other fees (except for insufficient funds and late fees) can be waived.
  • The Military Annual Percentage Rate, or MAPR, won’t exceed 36% (including annual fees).
  • Any introductory promotional interest rates (e.g., 0% APR) are honored.

If you incurred debt with Chase, including credit cards, before entering active duty, you may qualify for Chase benefits under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, or SCRA. SCRA benefits can also help with waived fees and limit interest rates.

Who Qualifies for Chase MLA Benefits

Any active duty member of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force may qualify for MLA benefits with Chase.

In addition, active-duty Reserves, National Guard members mobilized under federal orders for more than 30 days, spouses, and some dependents of the service members may receive MLA benefits.

You can learn more about the MLA and its qualifications here.

How To Apply for Chase MLA Benefits

When applying for a Chase credit card, you can indicate the military as your source of income, and MLA benefits may automatically apply as soon as you are approved for the card. Chase can verify your eligibility during the approval process.

If, for any reason, benefits are not applied automatically, you can request benefits online (after you’re approved for the card).

  • Access your Chase.com online banking profile.
  • Select “secure messages” in the upper left of the page, then “compose message.”
  • Under “inquiries,” select Military SCRA (MLA) benefits.
  • Be sure to include your account number and attach any supporting documents.

You can also call 877-469-0110 to inquire about credit card fee waivers for Chase credit cards (8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays). Internationally, call collect at 318-340-3348.

Hot Tip:

Chase has what is referred to as the 5/24 rule and will not allow you to open a new credit card if you’ve opened 5 or more consumer credit cards from any issuer within the last 24 months. Read more about Chase’s 5/24 rule before applying. Chase also has once-per-lifetime regulations for some of its card families, including Chase Sapphire cards, that may affect your eligibility to receive a welcome offer.

Best Premium Chase Credit Cards for the Military

Chase Sapphire Lounge San Diego bar
Travel rewards cards can help you enjoy new travel perks. Chase Sapphire Lounge San Diego. Image Credit: Ryan Smith

Though Chase waives the fees for its consumer credit cards for active-duty military members, you still need a good to excellent credit score and a strong credit history to qualify for the best cards.

The best Chase cards have elevated earnings, flexible redemption options, and premium travel benefits. Typically, the cards also have higher annual fees. If you’re on active duty and qualify for the annual fee waiver, you could benefit significantly.

Also, consider the fact that you will need to pay the annual fee after leaving active duty. Fortunately, many Chase cards are worth keeping for the long term.

Here are some of the best Chase cards for active-duty members.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

NEW OFFER
Chase Sapphire Reserve®Terms Apply / Rates & Fees
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
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)
A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
125,000 points
$2,500
$795
20.24% - 28.74% Variable
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 cardapplication.
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
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: 20.24% - 28.74% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

As one of the best travel credit cards available, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card offers elevated earning, flexible redemption options, statement credits for specific purchases, and superb travel insurance benefits. The $795 annual fee is waived for military members.

Key Chase Sapphire Reserve Card Benefits

  • 8x points on Chase Travel purchases
  • Annual $300 travel statement credit
  • Worldwide lounge access for the cardholder and up to 2 guests with complimentary Priority Pass Select Membership
  • Transfer points to airline and hotel partners or redeem points for up to 2 cents each with Points Boost through Chase Travel.
  • The Edit by Chase Travel hotel stay benefits and up to $500 in annual credits, up to $250 on a 2-night stay, January through June, and July through December.
  • Up to $300 annually in statement credits for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables
  • No foreign transaction fees

With an easy-to-use $300 travel credit, Priority Pass airport lounge access (upon enrollment), elevated points earnings, statement credits, and no foreign transaction fees, the card (with the annual fee waived) is an excellent choice for active-duty military.

The New United Club℠ Card

The New United Club℠ Card
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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.

Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.
Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
80,000 miles
$960
$695
20.49% - 28.99% Variable
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 cardapplication.
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
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: 20.49% - 28.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Active-duty military members who are United flyers and hold the United Club card receive major perks when flying with United, with no uniform required.

United Club membership and having access to the United Club lounge when flying United are valuable benefits of having the card.

The card’s annual fee is usually $695 per year, but that fee can be waived for active-duty service members.

Key United Club Card Benefits

  • United Club membership with access to United Club-branded lounges lets you bring 1 adult and dependent children as guests. You can unlock an all-access membership after spending $50,000 on the card in a calendar year.
  • 2 free checked bags for you and a companion
  • Space-available complimentary upgrades on award flights for the cardholder and companion on the same reservation
  • 10% discount on United Economy Saver awards (continental U.S. and Canada)
  • Complimentary IHG One Rewards Platinum elite status

The New United Quest℠ Card

The New United Quest℠ Card
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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 United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.
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
$840
$350
20.49% - 28.99% Variable
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 cardapplication.
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
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: 20.49% - 28.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The United Quest card’s annual fee is $350, but the card comes with some valuable perks for United flyers. And, of course, the fee is waived for active-duty military. In addition to flight benefits, the card’s anniversary perks of a $200 United travel credit and a 10,000-mile award flight discount provide economic value.

Additional United Quest Card Benefits

  • 2 free checked bags for you and a companion
  • TSA PreCheck, Nexus, or Global Entry fee reimbursement
  • 25% back on United inflight Wi-Fi and food and beverage purchases
  • Eligibility for complimentary upgrades on award flights, when space is available

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
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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 focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, travel credit, upgrades, and money back on inflight purchases.

This card focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, travel credit, upgrades, and money back on inflight purchases.
Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
50,000 points
$650
$229
19.99% - 28.49% Variable
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 cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is the most premium personal Southwest card offering from Chase. When you peel back the curtain, it is easy to see why.

Not only does the card offer multiple bonus categories to help you earn more Southwest Rapid Rewards points, but it is also loaded with benefits that are sure to offer quite a bit of value to Southwest flyers.

Here is a full overview of the card to help you decide if it is a good fit for your wallet.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 4x points on Southwest Airlines eligible purchases
  • 2x points at gas stations and restaurants, with no annual cap
  • 2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting, including rideshare purchases (through December 31, 2025)
Cons
  • $229 annual fee
  • Does not earn transferable points
Card Highlights
  • Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • 7,500 anniversary points each year.
  • Earn 4 points per $1 spent on Southwest Airlines® purchases, including flights, inflight, and Southwest gift cards.
  • Earn 2 points for every $1 you spend at gas stations and restaurants
  • First checked bag free for Cardmembers and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation.
  • Select a Preferred seat at booking, at no additional charge, when available.*
  • Cardmembers and up to 8 passengers in the same reservation will board with Group 5 giving them earlier access to overhead bins.*
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

The Southwest Priority card offers plenty of value for cardholders who fly the airline.

With flight benefits, anniversary points, inflight discounts, and a faster path to elite status, the card is a worthwhile choice for Southwest loyalists. And, the $229 annual fee would be waived while on active duty.

Additional Southwest Priority Card Benefits

  • Preferred seat at booking
  • First checked bag free for Cardmembers and up to 8 additional passengers on the same reservation.
  • 7,500 anniversary points each year
  • Earn 2,500 tier qualifying points (TQPs) towards elite status for every $5,000 in spending.
  • 25% back on inflight purchases, including food and Wi-Fi

Hot Tip: Starting in 2026, the Southwest Priority card will deliver even greater benefits to frequent fliers. They include Preferred or Standard seat selection at booking with no additional charge (when available), free unlimited upgrades to an Extra Legroom seat within 48 hours prior to departure (when available), and Group 5 boarding for earlier access to overhead bin space. Find out more about the changes Southwest is making to its air travel experience here.

Best Chase Midtier Credit Cards for the Military

Southwest B737 700 State of Florida special colors ATL
Get flight perks on Chase’s airline-branded cards. Image Credit: Alberto Riva

If your credit score is not yet at the excellent level, there are still plenty of great Chase cards you can qualify for that deliver plenty of value.

Chase has a card for every preference. You can select a card that earns flexible rewards that can be transferred to airline or hotel programs, or you might get an airline-branded card that supports your loyalty preference and gives you inflight perks. You could also select a hotel-branded card that comes with elite status and allows you to earn points for free hotel nights.

The choices are many and offer outstanding value when the annual fee is waived for active-duty military members.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

NEW OFFER
Chase Sapphire Preferred® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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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 fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.
Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
75,000 points
$1,500
$95
19.99% - 28.24% Variable
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 cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
  • 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
  • 2x points on all other travel worldwide
Cons
  • $95 annual fee
  • No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
Card Highlights
  • Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
  • Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
  • 10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.99% - 28.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is an excellent starter card for earning valuable Ultimate Rewards points, learning how to redeem flexible rewards, and receiving excellent travel insurance benefits.

We like that Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred to airline and hotel programs and then redeemed for award flights and free hotel nights.

Additional Chase Sapphire Preferred Card Benefits

  • Earn 5x points on travel purchases through Chase Travel, 3x on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries, and 2x on all other travel purchases.
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Up to $50 in hotel statement credits for booking through Chase Travel

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
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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.

Earn Southwest points on every purchase, plus anniversary points, Tier Qualifying Points, and points toward the Companion Pass!

Earn Southwest points on every purchase, plus anniversary points, Tier Qualifying Points, and points toward the Companion Pass!
Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
50,000 points
Up to $650
$149
19.99% - 28.49% Variable
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 cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

Another week, another flight. Flying weekly can get tiring, but you know that every flight gets you closer to taking some great vacations with your significant other or your favorite travel buddy.

To save money on the flights, you like to use Southwest Airlines.

So why not get the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card to help you earn extra Rapid Rewards points?

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 3x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
  • 2x points on the first $8,000 in combined spend at grocery stores and restaurants each anniversary year
  • 2x points per $1 on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners (through December 31, 2025)
Cons
  • $149 annual fee
  • Does not earn transferable rewards
Card Highlights
  • Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • 6,000 anniversary points each year.
  • Earn 3 points per $1 spent on Southwest Airlines® purchases, including flights, inflight, and Southwest gift cards.
  • Earn 2 points for every $1 you spend at grocery stores and restaurants on the first $8,000 in combined purchases per anniversary year.
  • First checked bag free for Cardmembers and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation.
  • Select a Standard or Preferred seat within 48 hours prior to departure, when available.*
  • Cardmembers and up to 8 passengers in the same reservation will board with Group 5 giving them earlier access to overhead bins.*
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

The Southwest Premier card offers a 6,000-point bonus on your cardmember anniversary. We value Southwest points at 1.4 cents each, making this bonus worth $84 per year. Elevated earnings on the card for all Southwest purchases count toward Southwest’s popular Companion Pass.

Additional Southwest Premier Card Benefits

  • Earn 1,500 tier-qualifying points toward elite status for every $5,000 in spending.
  • The first checked bag is free for cardmembers and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation.

Hot Tip: Starting in 2026, the Southwest Premier card will deliver even greater benefits to frequent flyers. They include complimentary Preferred or Standard seat selection within 48 hours before departure (when available), and Group 5 boarding, which grants earlier access to overhead bins. Find out more about the changes Southwest is making to its air travel experience here.

British Airways Visa Signature® Card

LIMITED TIME OFFER
British Airways Visa Signature® Card
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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 great for British Airways frequent flyers, and traveling couples will find great value in the Travel Together Ticket.

This card is great for British Airways frequent flyers, and traveling couples will find great value in the Travel Together Ticket.
Limited-Time Offer: Earn 85,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
85,000 Avios
$1,063
$95
19.99% - 28.49% Variable
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 cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

The British Airways Visa Signature® Card is a stellar option for travelers who regularly travel with the airline. From all of the Avios the card helps you earn, to a 10% discount off cash tickets, and the award flight statement credits, you can get tons of value out of the card each year.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 3x Avios per $1 on British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL purchases
  • 2x Avios per $1 on hotel accommodations purchased directly through hotels
  • 1x Avios per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
  • $95 annual fee
  • Does not earn transferable rewards
Card Highlights
  • Limited-Time Offer: Earn 85,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
  • Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL.
  • Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel.
  • 10% off British Airways flights starting in the US when you book through the website provided in your welcome materials.
  • Every calendar year you make $30,000 in purchases on your British Airways Visa card, you'll earn a Travel Together Ticket good for two years.
  • Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel abroad.
  • Simply tap to pay with your contactless British Airways Visa Signature Card. Just look for the contactless symbol at checkout. It's fast, easy and secure!
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

British Airways Executive Club

The British Airways Visa card doesn’t offer inflight perks but does come with benefits that can help you save on flight purchases.

Additional British Airways Visa Card Benefits

  • Get elevated earnings on British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL.
  • Make $30,000 in purchases on your card in a calendar year, and earn a Travel Together Ticket good for 2 years.
  • Receive a statement credit for taxes and fees on award tickets to London: $100 for economy and premium economy, or $200 for business and first class, up to 3 times per year.
  • No foreign transaction fees

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

NEW OFFER
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
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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.

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.
Earn 125,000 Bonus Points + 1 Free Night Award after spending $3,000 on eligible purchases within 3 months of account opening with your Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card. Free Night Award valued up to 50,000 points. Certain hotels have resort fees.
125,000 points + 1 Free Night
Up to $1,225
$95
19.99% - 28.49% Variable
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 cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

If you’re a frequent traveler and a Marriott loyalist, there’s a lot to love about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card. The card comes packed with several great benefits like a free hotel night once a year, automatic Silver Elite status (with a fast-track to Gold Elite status), and multiple options for redeeming points.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Earn big when you use your card at thousands of participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
  • Earn big at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
  • Automatic Silver Elite Status
Cons
  • $95 annual fee
  • Marriott Silver Elite Status is the lowest status tier
Card Highlights
  • Earn 125,000 Bonus Points + 1 Free Night Award after qualifying purchases.
  • Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases annually on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
  • Earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
  • 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary.
  • Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card.
  • Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees. Your points don't expire as long as you make purchases on your card every 24 months.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

If Marriott is your preferred hotel brand, the Marriott Boundless card could be a card you keep beyond active duty. With a lower annual fee, Marriott Bonvoy elite status, elevated earnings at Marriott properties, and an annual free hotel night, the card offers lots of potential value, even long-term.

It’s worth noting that American Express also issues Marriott Bonvoy credit cards (including its most premium option).

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

The World of Hyatt Credit Card
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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 World of Hyatt card offers a fast track to Hyatt elite status, an annual free night, and up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
The World of Hyatt card offers a fast track to Hyatt elite status, an annual free night, and up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays.
Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
Up to 60,000 points
$900
$95
19.99% - 28.49% Variable
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 cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The World of Hyatt Credit Card makes your Hyatt stays more rewarding and helps you get coveted World of Hyatt elite status faster. This card is a must-have for any traveler who regularly stays at Hyatt hotels, or even for anyone who’s able to take advantage of the card’s annual free night certificate.

When you factor in all the benefits the World of Hyatt card offers, it’s easy to see why it is one of the best co-branded hotel credit cards on the market.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
  • 2x points per $1 at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airline, local transit, rideshares, and fitness clubs/gym memberships
  • 1x point per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
    • $95 annual fee
Card Highlights
  • Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
  • Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
  • Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
  • Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
  • Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
  • Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
  • Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
  • Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

World of Hyatt

Hyatt loyalists should enjoy benefits of complimentary World of Hyatt elite status, an annual free hotel night, and a generous welcome offer worth several hotel nights, with the World of Hyatt card.

The card also travels well, as it does not charge foreign transaction fees.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

LIMITED TIME OFFER
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
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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 perfect card for IHG fans, offering a free night every year, automatic Platinum Elite status, and your fourth night free on award stays.

The perfect card for IHG fans, offering a free night every year, automatic Platinum Elite status, and your fourth night free on award stays.
Earn 165,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
165,000 points
$825
$99
19.99% - 28.49% Variable
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 cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

If you regularly visit IHG hotels throughout the year, then the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is probably a perfect card to have in your wallet.

The IHG Premier card offers a great bundle of perks and benefits, including automatic Platinum elite status, an annual free night certificate, and travel protections.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Up to 26x points per $1 on IHG stays
  • 5x points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants
  • 3x points per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
  • $99 annual fee
  • Does not earn transferable points
Card Highlights
  • Limited Time Offer! Earn 165,000 Bonus Points
  • Enjoy an Anniversary Free Night at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Plus, enjoy a fourth reward night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG® hotel stay.
  • Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts
  • Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier cardmember
  • Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $120 every 4 years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card
  • IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at Hotels & Resorts such as InterContinental®, Crowne Plaza®, Kimpton®, EVEN® Hotels, Indigo® Hotels & Holiday Inn®
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

With the IHG Premier card, you receive complimentary IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status.

The card also comes with an annual complimentary hotel night certificate, discounts on purchasing IHG One Rewards points, and fee reimbursement for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck. Additionally, it imposes no foreign transaction fees.

Final Thoughts

If you’re an active-duty military member, you’re likely familiar with how the MLA and SCRA legislation apply to car loans, banking accounts, or mortgages. If you’ve considered adding the benefits of travel rewards cards to your household, Chase is a good financial institution for selecting your first card.

Chase offers the assurance that your MLA (and SCRA) benefits will be granted, you’ll benefit economically from the lower associated costs, and you’ll enjoy the related benefits of travel rewards cards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Chase waive annual fees for military?

Yes. Active-duty military members can expect waived annual fees on Chase credit cards under the MLA or SCRA.

How do I access cash rewards on a Chase military credit card?

You can redeem Chase credit card rewards by logging into your online account and heading to the Rewards tab. This includes access to cash rewards or redeeming Ultimate Rewards points earned on the cards.

Is Chase a good bank for military?

Yes. Chase offers generous benefits for active-duty military members, including waived fees on its credit cards and bank accounts.

What are the Chase credit card military benefits?

Chase offers several benefits under the SCRA and MLA for active-duty military customers, including waived annual fees on its credit cards.

How many Chase credit cards can I have if I am an active-military member?

Chase does not have a set limit when it comes to how many cards it will give you. The amount of total credit granted is based on your ability to pay, credit history, credit score, the amount of existing credit you have with Chase, and the number of cards you have opened in the past 2 years.

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About Christine Krzyszton

Christine ran her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services offices. This stoked a passion for points and miles and she now has over 2 dozen credit cards and creates in-depth, detailed content for UP.

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