• Earn up to 20,000-miles in award flight discounts 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
• 1,500 Card Bonus PQP each qualification year, starting in 2026
• Complimentary Instacart+ Membership. Terms apply.
• Up to $240 in Instacart credits annually. Terms apply.
• Up to $200 in credits on Renowned Hotels and Resorts for United® Cardmembers annually
• United Club membership for cardholder, but only access to United Club branded lounges (no partner lounges).
  

[.dontreco] We don’t recommend: Using miles for merchandise or gift cards [.dontreco]

United miles lose significant value when used for non-travel redemptions. Stick to flights.

‍

[.sometimesreco] We sometimes recommend: Booking United flights directly with miles [.sometimesreco]

It’s a solid redemption option, but United’s dynamic pricing means some flights may not offer the best value. Always check before booking.

‍

[.alwaysreco] We always recommend: Using miles for premium cabins on Star Alliance partners [.alwaysreco]

Booking business and first-class seats on airlines like Lufthansa or ANA often provides the best value per mile. And, even if you're not booking premium, using these miles for award flights is where you'll get the best bang for your buck.

While United miles can’t be transferred to other airlines, they can be used to book Star Alliance flights, including: Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, Air Canada, ANA and more. This is where you'll get high-value award redemptions, particularly in premium cabins.

‍

1. The United Loyalist

If United is your go-to airline, the United Club Card offers the most comprehensive set of benefits out there. You’ll get complimentary access to United Club lounges, priority boarding, free checked bags and Premier Access, making your airport experience that much better. You’ll earn extra miles on United purchases and have access to expanded award availability when booking flights. For frequent United flyers, these perks can add up to major time and money savings.

‍

2. The Elite Status Chaser

If you're working toward United Premier 1K status, this is the best card to help you get there faster. The United Club Card is the only United credit card that can earn up to 28,000 Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) per year. That’s some major help toward reaching elite status, which comes with valuable perks like complimentary upgrades and waived fees. You’ll also get priority services at the airport and better availability when booking award flights. For frequent flyers focused on elite benefits, this card is a solid option.

Here’s a good rule of thumb: You probably shouldn’t own a credit card if you: (1) have a bad credit score, (2) are a non-U.S. resident (for this particular card), and (3) cannot control your spending. If your credit score is below 700, you'll need to improve it before applying for travel credit cards, as approval for the best ones, like the United Club, is unlikely. Be honest with yourself: if a new credit card will tempt you to overspend, it's best to avoid it. Credit cards are crucial for earning miles and points, but they require responsible use.

The recommended credit score for the United Club is 670-850 (Good — Excellent). But again, if you’re in a solid place with your credit and feel you are ready for a new card, don’t let the fear of being rejected keep you from applying. We’ve known several people to be rejected on their first application, call Chase to please their case, and be granted the United Club.