Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology.
Boasting a portfolio of over 20 cards, Jarrod has been an expert in the points and miles space for over 6 years. He earns and redeems over 1 million points per year and his work has been featured in o...
With years of experience in corporate marketing and as the Executive Director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Qatar, Keri is now Editor-in-Chief at UP, overseeing daily content operations and r...
Kellie’s professional experience has led her to a deep passion for compliance, data reporting, and process improvement. Kellie’s learned the ins and outs of the points and miles world and leads UP’s c...
We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.
If you’re a Delta loyalist or live near a Delta hub, keeping a Delta credit card in your wallet can really earn you great value.
Not only are there multiple Delta credit cards to choose from, but the welcome offers for each can vary greatly. Fortunately, you could receive a targeted offer of up to 60,000-100,000 miles!
So how can you find if you’re targeted for these increased offers? Here are the steps to take to land that increased welcome offer, along with the benefits of having a personal Delta card.
How to Get Targeted Welcome Offers for Personal Delta Credit Cards
The standard welcome offer for the personal Delta credit cards can be anywhere from 30,000 to 40,000 miles, so being targeted for a 60,000-100,000 point bonus offer can double the miles you earn from the welcome offer.
There are 3 main ways to receive a targeted welcome offer for one of the personal Delta credit cards:
Checking for targeted offers at a Delta/American Express landing page using your SkyMiles number
Receiving a targeted mailing
Check for pre-qualified offers with Amex
Checking for Targeted Offers at the Delta/American Express Website
That’s right, Delta and American Express have set up a dedicated website for SkyMiles members to check and see if they are targeted for an increased welcome offer! Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Sign-Up for a Delta SkyMiles Account
In order for you to even be eligible to check and see if you’re targeted for an increased welcome offer, you must have a Delta SkyMiles account. Don’t have a SkyMiles account already? No problem, simply visit the Delta SkyMiles enrollment website.
Step 2: Visit the Delta/Amex Website to See If You’re Targeted for Any Increased Offers
Head to the Delta/American Express page and enter your SkyMiles number and your last name to see if your account is targeted for any offers.
Image Credit: Delta
Bottom Line: If you receive 1 or more targeted offers, congrats! You can click right through the landing page to apply for your new card. If you enter your information and see “Please Verify The Information You Entered Is Correct And Try Again” it means your account is not targeted for an increased welcome offer.
Targeted Mailings from American Express
Another way that many people receive targeted Delta card offers is in the mail. All you need to do is opt-in to receive credit card offers from American Express. Just visit the communications preferences in your American Express account and make sure you’ve enabled communication via mail.
Image Credit: American Express
Check for Pre-Qualified Offers with American Express
American Express allows you to check for pre-qualified offers online. Navigate to americanexpress.com, click “Cards,” then click “Check for Pre-Qualified Credit Card Offers.” With any luck, you will receive some increased welcome offers that could come from any of their card offerings — including the Delta-branded cards.
Image Credit: American Express
Reasons You May Not Get Targeted for an Increased Welcome Offer
You’ve opted out of marketing offers: As mentioned before, you could be missing out on some fantastic credit card offers if you have not opted-in to receive offers from American Express, so make sure you have opted-in to receive both email and mail offers!
Low credit: If you don’t have a high credit score, you’re not just less likely to be targeted for the offer, but you’ll have a difficult time just getting approved for the card. As always, you want to keep your credit score as high as possible. You should be using your current credit responsibly and paying off your bill in full and on time each month.
Benefits of Delta Credit Cards
Deciding on which Delta card is right for you can seem tricky. However, when evaluating, you should find the card with perks that you can take advantage of the most; this ensures you’re getting the most return with the card. You can read more about each individual card in our card reviews.
However, here’s a quick breakdown of the perks of the Delta cards. Keep in mind that all 3 cards earn 2x miles per $1 spent on Delta purchases, then 1x per $1 on all other purchases.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with a free bag, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.
This card provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with a free bag, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.
Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
40,000 miles
$480
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
20.99%-29.99% 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 (670-850)
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
New: 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.
Bonus earning on Delta purchases and U.S. supermarket and worldwide restaurant purchases
First checked bag free on Delta flights
20% back on inflight purchases
Cons
Moderate annual fee
Earn rate for Delta flights is relatively low compared to other travel cards
Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Enjoy a $0 introductory Annual Fee for the first year, then $99.
Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
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 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
$100 Delta Flight Credit: After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, receive a Credit to use toward future travel.
Want even more flexibility? 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.
If you’re a semi-frequent Delta flyer, the Delta Gold Card could be a fantastic option for you. Between free checked bags, priority boarding, and 20% inflight savings, you can easily offset the annual fee with just a few flights each year.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.
Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.
Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
50,000 bonus miles
$600
$250
20.99%-29.99% 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 (670-850)
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 Miles (MQMs) that are essential for earning Delta status. This could help you get closer to earning free flights and other valuable rewards.
Pros
New: 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.
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 and U.S. supermarkets
1x SkyMile per $1 spent on all other purchases
Annual companion certificate
Complimentary checked bags
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee statement credit
20% back on inflight purchases
Delta Status Boost
Discount on Delta Sky Club visits (Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available)
Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Receive a Domestic Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights. Plus enjoy Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding and settle into your seat sooner.
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 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.
Get access to Delta Sky Club® at a rate of $50 per person per visit for you and up to two guests or immediate family when traveling on a Delta flight from now until 12/31/23. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available.
Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Official Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
Earn 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $25,000 in purchases on your Delta Platinum Card, up to two times through 12/31/23. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available, and there will be a new way to earn toward Medallion Status with the Card. Learn more at delta.com/skymilesprogramchanges.
Frequent Delta flyers may find the Delta Platinum Card a better value with the inclusion of the annual companion certificate that allows you to bring a companion on any domestic main-cabin round-trip ticket.
With Delta Status Boost®, after you spend $25,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you can earn 10,000 MQMs two times per year, getting you closer to Medallion Status. MQMs are used to determine Medallion Status and are different than miles you earn toward flights.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.
Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
60,000 miles
$720
$550
20.99%-29.99% 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 (670-850)
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its lounge access, status boost, 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
New: 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.
3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases
1x SkyMile per $1 on all other purchases
Complimentary Delta Sky Club and Amex Centurion Lounge access when flying 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.
Delta Status Boost
Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) Waiver
Annual Companion Certificate
Access to Complimentary Upgrades and Upgrade Priority
Free checked bags
20% back on inflight purchases
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee statement credit
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Enter Delta Sky Club® at no cost and bring up to two guests or immediate family at a rate of $50 per person per visit. 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.
Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
With Status Boost®, earn 15,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card through 12/31/23, up to four times per year getting you closer to Medallion Status. MQMs are used to determine Medallion Status and are different from the miles you earn towards flights. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available, and there will be a new way to earn toward Medallion Status with the Card. Learn more at delta.com/skymilesprogramchanges.
Eligible 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.
Receive a domestic First Class, Delta Comfort+® or domestic Main Cabin round trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Official Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
Overall, the co-branded Delta credit cards from American Express offer a number of perks and benefits that will prove very beneficial for Delta fans.
If you’re a frequent Delta flyer who is in the market for a Delta credit card, it may be worth your while to try and track down, or wait for, a targeted offer on the card you’re interested in. After all, doing so could mean the difference between earning a welcome offer with twice as many points! Once you’ve secured that large welcome offer, now you can start redeeming your Delta miles for huge value!
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, click here. For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, click here. For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, click here.
Featured Image Credit: Delta
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of enrolling in Delta SkyMiles?
Members receive benefits such as bonus miles, free checked bags, priority boarding, and more, depending on membership status. Once enough miles accrue, you can redeem them for travel or other options.
How many Delta SkyMiles are needed for a free flight?
You can redeem Delta SkyMiles for free flights on Delta or any of their partner airlines. You can also transfer points to and from SkyMiles partners, including hotels. Since Delta no longer publishes an award chart, the number of miles needed for a flight can vary. Check out the SkyMiles deals page for great discounts on award flights!
How much are Delta miles worth?
At Upgraded Points, our valuations assign a 1 cent per point value to Delta miles. This does not mean that you cannot receive more value for your Delta miles, but rather a benchmark to shoot for before redeeming. As always, mile valuations are subjective so your mileage may vary.
Do Delta SkyMiles expire?
Delta SkyMiles do not expire. However, your account can be terminated for fraudulent or other unfavorable activities.
What are MQM Delta miles?
MQM are Delta’s Medallion Qualifying Miles, which help people reach elite status membership in Delta’s Medallion program.
How do I redeem Delta miles?
The steps to redeem Delta SkyMiles are:
Visit Delta.com or the Delta app and log in to your SkyMiles account
Select “Book a Flight”
Under the “Show Price In” section, select “Miles”
Enter your flight preferences and select “Find Flights”
Choose the flight you want to book, complete the purchase, and you’re all set!
Boasting a portfolio of over 20 cards, Jarrod has been an expert in the points and miles space for over 6 years. He earns and redeems over 1 million points per year and his work has been featured in outlets like The New York Times.
This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.
