22 Best Ways To Earn Lots of United MileagePlus Miles

Key Takeaways

• Earn United MileagePlus miles through flights with United and Star Alliance partners and through spending on co-branded credit cards like the United Explorer Card.
• Chase Ultimate Rewards are easy to earn with an applicable Chase credit card and can be transferred to MileagePlus at a 1:1 ratio.
• Additional miles can be accumulated via hotel transfer partners such as Hilton Honors, the MileagePlus Dining Program, and shopping through the MileagePlus Shopping portal.

United Airlines has one of the most popular frequent flyer programs in the U.S., and there are some great ways to earn United miles for award flights.

In fact, the number of ways to earn miles with the United MileagePlus program is almost overwhelming, but the following is a simplified list to get you moving in the right direction.

Sign Up for a United Airlines MileagePlus Account

Unlike transferable points programs such as Chase Ultimate Rewards, you do not need a particular credit card to participate in United’s MileagePlus program.

Your MileagePlus account is your key to earning United miles whether you’re dining out, shopping, flying, or spending with a United co-branded credit card.

To sign up and start earning miles, simply visit United’s website and create your account.

Once your account is set up, you’re ready to go. So let’s dive into the best ways to earn United miles!

Earn MileagePlus Miles With Credit Cards

If you really want to earn tons of United miles, the strategic use of credit cards is going to be your key to success. From transferable points to earning United miles directly through co-branded credit cards, you have several options.

1. Chase Ultimate Rewards Credit Cards (Best Option)

Without a doubt, your best option to accumulate United miles is to transfer Chase points to United. Points are transferred to United at a 1:1 ratio, they’re easy to earn, and there’s no limit to how many you can transfer.

To earn Chase Ultimate Rewards, you just need a card that’s linked to the program. Whether you’re looking for a personal card or a business card, Chase has you covered with multiple ways to earn Ultimate Rewards points.

Recommended Chase Cards (Personal)

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® 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 fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 75,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,500

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.74% - 27.99% 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 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

Read Full Review

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: 19.74% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

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

Business owner? See our list of the best Chase business credit cards.

Regardless of your spending habits, you’re bound to find a Chase card or 2 that work for you. Many Chase cards also come with hefty welcome bonuses and bonus-earning categories to get you started quickly.

Hot Tip: Find out how you can earn 100,000+ Ultimate Rewards points in just 90 days!

2. Chase United Co-branded Credit Cards

After cards that earn Chase Ultimate Rewards, the next best option for earning United miles are Chase’s co-branded United cards:

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

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 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

ELEVATED OFFER

The New United Gateway℠ 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 Gateway card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without paying an annual fee.

The New United Gateway℠ Card

The United Gateway card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without paying an annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn 30,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. Learn more.

30,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$360

Annual Fee

$0

APR

0% Intro APR on Purchases for 12 months; after that, 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 Gateway℠ Card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without wanting to pay a credit card annual fee. Plus, the card offers other solid benefits like a 25% back on United inflight purchases, purchase protection, and rental car insurance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x miles per $1 on United purchases
• 2x miles per $1 at gas stations and on local transit and commuting, including rideshare services, taxicabs, train tickets, tolls, and mass transit
• 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• If you are a frequent United flyer, other cards offer more perks
• It does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 30,000 bonus miles
• 0% intro APR for the first 12 months from account opening on purchases & no annual fee.
• 2x miles on United^® purchases
• 2x miles at gas stations, on local transit and commuting
• 1x mile on all other purchases
• 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Gateway Card
• Earn 2 checked bags after you spend $10,000 in a calendar year
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 12 months; after that, 20.24% - 28.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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

While these cards don’t have as many bonus categories as Ultimate Rewards cards, some do provide a complimentary checked bag, priority boarding, and other perks when flying on United.

There are also various credits available on most of these cards for certain purchases that provide value beyond what you get when flying United, such as for hotel stays, rental car bookings, and rideshare trips.

Additionally, if you fly United regularly, some of these cards can help you earn Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs) through your annual credit card spend.

These cards are more useful for the perks than their earning potential, but they are still a solid way to earn United miles.

Hot Tip: Check out the valuable benefits of the United Explorer card for a deeper insight into this rewards card.

3. Refer a Friend for Bonus Miles

Chase allows United cardholders to refer a friend to apply for United co-branded cards. Sending a referral link to your friends is very simple and just requires you to enter a few personal details.

If the person you refer is approved for any United card, even if it’s not the same card you hold, then you will earn 10,000 bonus miles. You can earn up to 100,000 bonus miles per year through referrals.

You can enter your card details on the Chase website to get your referral link.

4. Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards

You can earn Marriott Bonvoy points and transfer those to United at a transfer rate of 3:1. Plus, for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points that you transfer, you’ll receive an extra 10,000 United miles.

Recommended Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® 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 Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

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.

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

Welcome Offer

Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

85,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $595

Annual Fee

$250

APR

19.74%-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 Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card, the latest mid-tier offering in the Marriott Bonvoy lineup of cards, offers cardholders automatic elite status and ways to earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on each of their stays and daily purchases.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy
• 4x points per $1 at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per calendar year, then 2x points)
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $250 annual fee (rates & fees)
• Free Night Award certificate is not an automatic benefit

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®.
• Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
• Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
• Marriott Bonvoy^® 1K Bonus Points Per Stay: Earn 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points per paid eligible stay booked directly with Marriott for properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®.
• Earn up to 18.5X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Earn 6X points with the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card. Earn up to 10X points from Marriott Bonvoy for being a Marriott Bonvoy member. Earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy with the 25% Bonus Points on Stays, a benefit available with your complimentary Gold Elite status.
• With complimentary Marriott Bonvoy^® Gold Elite Status, earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy^® on eligible hotel purchases with the 25% Bonus Points on stays benefit.
• Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® Free Night Award: Earn 1 Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points) at a participating hotel. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year, receive 15 Elite Night Credits towards the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy^® member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
• Booking the trip is easy. Avoiding delays is next to impossible. If a round-trip is paid for entirely with your Eligible Card and a covered reason delays your trip more than 12 hours, Trip Delay Insurance can help reimburse certain additional expenses purchased on the same Eligible Card, up to $300 per trip, maximum 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• Plan It^® is a payment option that lets you split up large purchases into monthly installments with a fixed fee. A fixed monthly fee is shown upfront so you'll know exactly how much you’ll pay. Plus, you'll still earn rewards for the purchases you plan the way you usually do.
• $250 Annual Fee.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.74%-28.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® 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 premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott 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.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

100,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $700

Annual Fee

$650

APR

19.74%-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 Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
• 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• Steep annual fee of $650 (rates & fees)
• 6x points per $1 is the same earn rate offered with lower annual fee alternatives like the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
• Earn 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines.
• Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
• Earn up to 21X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Earn 6X points with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card. Earn up to 10X points from Marriott Bonvoy for being a Marriott Bonvoy member. Earn up to 5X points from Marriott Bonvoy with the 50% Bonus Points on Stays, a benefit available with your complimentary Platinum Elite status.
• $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card at restaurants worldwide.
• A Marriott Bonvoy^® Platinum Elite member will earn 50% more points on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy for each U.S. dollar or the currency equivalent that is incurred and paid for by the member.
• Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®, such as Le Metropolitan, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Paris. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Brilliant Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
• $100 Marriott Bonvoy^® Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton^® or St. Regis^® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
• Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck^® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
• With your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, you can enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, with an unlimited number of visits to over 1,200 airport lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
• Trip Cancelled or Interrupted? If you purchase a round-trip entirely with your Eligible Card and a covered reason cancels or interrupts your trip, we may be able to help. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
• $650 Annual Fee.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.74%-28.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

5. Bilt Mastercard

Bilt Rewards is a rewards program aimed at those who pay rent. You can earn Bilt Points and transfer them to United at a ratio of 1:1 with a minimum of 2,000 points transferred. The Bilt Mastercard (rates & fees) is the main avenue to earn points on rent up to 100,000 points in a calendar year and allows renters to pay rent with their credit card with no additional transaction fees (rates & fees).

However, the card lacks a welcome bonus offer and requires a minimum of 5 transactions per statement period to earn points.

Bilt Mastercard

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 information regarding the Bilt Mastercard was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. 

Bilt Mastercard

The information regarding the Bilt Mastercard was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. 

Welcome Offer

No offer available

No offer available

Annual Fee

$0

APR

See Rate & Fees

Why We Like This Card

Never before has there been a credit card built specifically with renters in mind. Enter the Bilt Mastercard, designed specifically to help renters earn rewards on their rent payments with no transaction fees.

Of course, aside from rewards on rent, there are many other solid features that the card offers that add extra value to cardholders. In this guide, we provide a complete breakdown of everything the Bilt Card has to offer to help you decide whether the card makes sense for you.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x points per $1 on dining
• 2x points per $1 on travel
• 1x point per $1 on rent payments, without a transaction fee, up to 100,000 points each calendar year (plus all other eligible purchases)

Cons

• Does not offer a welcome bonus
• Must use the card 5 times each statement period to earn points

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• $0 Annual Fee
• Earn 1x points on rent payments without the transaction fee, up to 100,000 points each calendar year
• Earns 3x points on dining, 2x on travel, and 1x on other purchases
• Earn double points on the first of each month (excluding rent, up to 1,000 bonus points)
• Use the card 5 times each statement period to earn points
• Earn up to 5x Bilt points on Lyft rides when you link your Bilt account and pay with your Bilt card
• Point redemptions include airlines, hotels, future rent payments, credit card statement credits, toward a down payment on a home, etc.
• Other features and benefits include: Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Purchase Security, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection, Cellular Telephone Protection, and Trip Delay Reimbursement
• Select “Apply Now” to learn more about the product features, terms, and conditions

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Rate & Fees
• Foreign Transaction Fees: $0

Earn Miles Through Shopping and Dining

Before you get any of these credit cards, you can start earning United miles by shopping online and dining out. However, using one of the cards above can really boost your earnings!

6. MileagePlus Shopping

Shopping portals are a great way to earn extra miles on purchases you were going to make anyway. You can earn United miles through the United MileagePlus Shopping portal. All you have to do is log in and start shopping.

There are hundreds of MileagePlus retailers participating in the portal. Below is an example of a few of retailers and the kinds of earnings you can expect to find:

Occasionally, a retailer will have a special bonus. For example, the Wall Street Journal once offered 800 miles for any order placed online at the WSJ store. With subscriptions starting as low as $12, that was a good offer!

The portal is very easy to use. Follow these steps before you begin shopping at a participating online store (or before you check out):

1. Go to MileagePlus Shopping.
2. Sign into your United MileagePlus account.
3. Search for a product or store.
4. Click on the store’s bonus miles offer (e.g. Earn 3 miles/$).
5. Select Shop Now.
6. After a few seconds, you’ll be able to shop on the store’s website.
7. Ensure you are still logged into the portal before you purchase through the store to be absolutely certain you will receive the extra miles.

Keep an eye out for limited-time promotions that offer even more bonus miles at your favorite stores. They will be featured rather prominently on the site and under the Offers section. Take special note of the ones listed as expiring soon!

7. MileagePlus X App

There is a bonus shopping mall tool with United called MileagePlus X. Smartphone users can stack miles by using the MileagePlus X app on purchases. The app offers exclusive bonus earnings of up to 5 miles per $1 at stores and restaurants.

Miles earned through the app are in addition to bonus miles you earn in other ways. When you make a purchase in the app using your United MileagePlus credit card, you will earn miles from your card and from the app.

The MileagePlus X App is downloadable through the iTunes and Google Play stores.

If you have one of the MileagePlus credit cards, you will get a 25% boost to the miles you earn through the MileagePlus X app!

8. MileagePlus Dining Program

Dining programs offer bonus miles when you dine at participating restaurants. You can sign up for the MileagePlus Dining program for free.

To start earning MileagePlus miles on dining out:

1. Go to MileagePlus Dining.
2. Register/log in with your MileagePlus account number.
3. Select Add a card in your account and enter the details of any credit or debit card you want to use at restaurants.
4. Use the location search at the top to look for restaurants near you.
5. Start using the credit card you registered at participating restaurants to earn miles.

You’ll earn up to 5 miles per $1 you spend at the restaurants through the MileagePlus dining program. You can also earn miles for special bonus offers (usually offered at sign-up).

If you have a big group outing coming up, pay the bill on your registered credit card at a participating MileagePlus restaurant. This strategy will help you reach the additional spending bonus in no time!

Hot Tip: Once you’ve signed up through the portal, you can register any credit card (not just a United one)! By using the Chase Sapphire Preferred card or Chase Sapphire Reserve card, you’ll earn the most points (that can be converted to United miles) as possible.

9. Rewards for Event Tickets

If you like going to music or theater events, then MileagePlus has a great way to earn miles when you buy tickets for events. With Audience Rewards, you can earn 50 to 2,000 miles per ticket.

Just register with the program using your MileagePlus number, search for tickets, and make your purchase to earn bonus miles right away.

10. Other Retail Purchases

The following are other ways to earn MileagePlus miles through retail partners and online shopping centers:

Earn United Miles Through Travel

If you happen to have paid flights or hotel stays in your future, you can, of course, earn United miles on them, too!

11. Airfare and Airline Purchases

Not surprisingly, you can earn miles by flying on United. Maximize the number of miles you’ll earn when you fly with these tips.

Even without these cards, you’ll earn miles for flying as MileagePlus member. If your flights are operated by United/United Express or your tickets are issued by United (ticket number starts with 016), then you will earn miles based on the fare.

The base miles you earn will always be 5x the fare. If you have reached a MileagePlus Premier membership status, then the award miles you earn based on the fare will be even greater. Here’s the Premier status breakdown:

• Premier Silver: 5x fare + 2x fare = 7x fare total
• Premier Gold: 5x fare + 3x fare = 8x fare total
• Premier Platinum: 5x fare + 4x fare = 9x fare total
• Premier 1K: 5x fare + 2x fare = 11x fare total

All flights operated by partner airlines or Star Alliance members with tickets issued by an airline other than United will earn award miles based on the flight distance.

The following airlines are all partners with United:

The award miles earned on these tickets will also depend on the fare class. Go to United’s website to view United MileagePlus miles earned on each partnering airline.

There are only a few restrictions to earning miles on flights. Miles cannot be earned on MileagePlus award travel, charter flights, or reduced-rate tickets (see United for more restrictions).

Hot Tip: For more information on earning miles for paid flights, check out this in-depth guide to help you know where to credit your airline miles.

12. Car Rentals and Other Ground Transportation

Flying is not the only way to earn United MileagePlus miles when you travel.

13. Book With United Hotel Partners

United MileagePlus has a tremendous number of hotel partners. All of these offer varying amounts of bonus miles calculated by each dollar or night spent.

You can find all hotel partners listed on United’s site, but here’s a consolidated list and how many miles you’ll earn:

Hotel Transfer Partners

If the list above does not suit you, perhaps one of the partnering rewards programs will. MileagePlus has partnered with numerous hotel rewards programs covering hundreds of other hotels and resorts around the world.

As a member of any of the following hotel rewards programs, you can opt to earn United miles instead of the hotel’s own loyalty currency, though we would not recommend this due to poor value:

14. Book Vacation Rentals through Vrbo

United MileagePlus members can earn 3x United miles per $1 spent booking a Vrbo vacation rental through the United Vrbo portal. United miles are awarded after the stay is complete and are based only on the rental amount. Taxes, cleaning fees, and any other service fees or extra charges won’t earn you miles.

The last name of the primary traveler on the Vrbo booking must match the last name on the United MileagePlus account in order to receive miles.

The bonus miles are not associated with having a United co-branded credit card so you can stack these bonus miles with any credit card to earn even more miles on your Vrbo purchase.

15. Book With United Vacations or United Packages

Search for great vacations combining flights, hotels, transportation, and activities at United Vacations. Use your United credit card when you purchase your vacation and earn a total of 2 miles per $1 spent.

Miles earned from these packages vary depending on the combination, location, and dates you desire. There’s a great list of vacation ideas with promotional codes aimed to earn you a set number of miles on the offers page.

With United Packages, you can earn 1,000 bonus miles when you book your flight, hotel, and car together.

16. Book United Cruises With Partners

Cruises all over Europe, the Caribbean, South America, and off the coasts of the U.S. earn some huge miles bonuses. You can earn up to 45,000 miles by booking a single cruise if you’re a United co-branded cardholder or 25,000 miles for non-cardholders!

Scroll down on the main page of the United Cruises website to find a list of special deals that will add even more miles to the normal amount offered. Some cruise lines will tack on up to 10,000 miles extra when booking through them!

Hot Tip: If you’ve opted to earn miles through an adventure on the open seas, don’t miss this ultimate cruise packing list to help you prep for your trip.

17. Special Travel Partners

The following company offers unique services and products related to your travel experience. It has bonus miles offered in partnership with MileagePlus and is worth taking a look at (especially if you’re a frequent traveler).

18. Fly Semi-private

While flying private or even semi-private isn’t something that the majority of us can do, it’s good to know that it’s another way to earn United miles.

Passengers flying on JSX flights can earn 50% to 100% of the miles flown, depending on the fare class booked, in the form of United MileagePlus miles.

If you have the United Explorer card, United Quest card, United Club card, United Business card, or United Club Business card, you can receive statement credits (up to amount varies by card and terms apply) each year for JSX flight bookings.

Specialty Earnings for United MileagePlus Miles

United MileagePlus has partnered with lots of other companies and nonprofits to give you different ways to earn extra miles.

19. Home and Energy Services

The following are some great ways to earn additional miles through services for your home.

Be careful: the cost of these services may not outweigh the benefits in the end! Figure out what better offers you can get for similar services in your area, and then decide which one makes the most sense for you.

20. Financial and Security Services

United MileagePlus often has partnerships with companies in the personal finance and security services world. These services can help you earn extra miles when you sign up via the links provided or mention your MileagePlus number to an agent.

Consult a financial advisor before making any decisions, especially with any providers that are connected to your personal finances. It’s one thing to earn lots of extra miles using these options, but quite another to end up with a new account or loan for which you could have gotten a better rate elsewhere!

21. Fill Out Surveys for Miles

Did you know there are data collection companies out there eager to get your marketing opinion in return for miles? All you have to do is sign up for free and fill out a few surveys or watch a few advertisements and give your opinion.

United MileagePlus has teamed up with Opinion Miles Club to offer you this simple way to earn a few extra miles. You can earn 300 miles for joining and completing your first survey (600 miles for MileagePlus cardholders), then 50 to 70 miles per survey.

22. Buy United Miles

Buying United miles should be left for times when you need to top off your MileagePlus account to book an award ticket. United occasionally offers bonuses for purchased miles, and if you can get them for a lower cost than their redemption value, you’ll come out ahead.

Final Thoughts

The Chase Ultimate Rewards program is the best way to earn United miles thanks to its higher-earning rate and 1:1 transfer ratio. Paired with a MileagePlus credit card, you can earn some serious miles and fun perks.

To top it all off, you can earn tons of extra miles shopping and dining out thanks to United’s partnerships. Before you know it, you’ll be booking your next award flight with United miles!