Annual Fee:
- TSA Precheck, Global Entry, or NEXUS statement credit (up to $120 every 4 years)
- 4 upgraded boardings per year (ends December 31, 2025)
- Free in-flight wifi (ends December 31, 2025)
- Earn 2,500 tier qualifying points (TQPs) toward A-List status for every $5,000 spent in purchases annually
- 4x earning on Southwest flights; 2x on local transit, internet, cable, and phone services (ends December 31, 2025)
- 9000 points per year on your card member anniversary
- $500 Fee credit for points transfers (ends December 31, 2025)
- Free checked bag for cardholder + up to 8 people on their reservation
- Select a Preferred seat for free at time of booking for cardholder + up to 8 people on their reservation
- Upgrade to an Extra Legroom seat for free 48 hours before departure (if available)
I thought the fee was inflated on this card back when it was $199. At $299 it's a tough calculation to justify keeping long term. But since it typically has a higher welcome offer than the Premier Business card, a lot of people may end up with this one for at least a year to help earn a Companion Pass. It does have perks like the credit for Global Entry or TSA Pre√ or Nexus. Do your own calculation with our benefits calculators on all the Southwest cards.
Once Southwest makes the switch to assigned seating, the ability to select a preferred seat for free at booking is potentially valuable for some people. And if you spend a lot with Southwest, the 4x earning rate is a good way to rack up a lot of Southwest points.
Overall, this card really helps make it so easy to get a Southwest Companion Pass. Just pay close attention to your timing when applying if you're trying to maximize the Companion Pass.
Want to check your eligibility for this card? Use this flow chart here.
