What To Know
- To qualify for an upgrade from the United Explorer Card to the Infinite Card, you must meet the following criteria.
- Can I upgrade my United Explorer Card to Infinite if I have a low credit score.
- However, the Explorer Card has a lower annual fee and earns 2x miles on United purchases compared to 1x mile on the Club Card.
The United Explorer Card offers a plethora of benefits for frequent travelers, but what if you aspire for more? The United Explorer Card Infinite beckons with its exclusive perks and elevated travel experiences. This comprehensive guide will explore the eligibility criteria, upgrade process, and benefits that await you when you make the switch.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an upgrade from the United Explorer Card to the Infinite Card, you must meet the following criteria:
- Have a good to excellent credit score (typically above 700)
- Be a US citizen or permanent resident
- Earn at least $60,000 annually
Upgrade Process
Upgrading your United Explorer Card to Infinite is a straightforward process:
1. Contact United Customer Service: Call 1-800-645-3065 or visit a United Club location.
2. Request an Upgrade: Inform the representative that you wish to upgrade your card.
3. Verification and Approval: United will verify your eligibility and creditworthiness. If approved, the upgrade will be processed immediately.
Benefits of the United Explorer Card Infinite
The United Explorer Card Infinite offers an array of exclusive benefits, including:
- 9x Miles on United Purchases: Earn triple the miles on United flights, compared to just 2x on the Explorer Card.
- Unlimited Lounge Access: Enjoy complimentary access to United Club lounges and other partner lounges worldwide.
- Priority Boarding: Board United flights in Group 1, ensuring a more comfortable and stress-free travel experience.
- Free Checked Bags: Check up to two bags for free on all United flights.
- 25% Discount on In-flight Food and Beverages: Save on your inflight purchases with this exclusive perk.
- Complimentary Global Entry or TSA PreCheck: Receive a statement credit for the application fee for either program.
- Anniversary Bonus: Earn a substantial bonus of 100,000 miles after your account anniversary.
Upgrade Fees and Annual Fee
Upgrading from the United Explorer Card to Infinite incurs a one-time upgrade fee of $50. Additionally, the annual fee for the Infinite Card is $525, compared to $95 for the Explorer Card.
Is the Upgrade Worth It?
The value of the upgrade depends on your travel habits and spending patterns. If you frequently fly United and utilize the card’s benefits, the upgrade can be a worthwhile investment. However, if you only occasionally fly United and do not fully take advantage of the perks, the Explorer Card may be a more cost-effective option.
Additional Considerations
- Credit Score Impact: Upgrading your card may result in a temporary dip in your credit score due to the hard inquiry required for approval.
- Earned Miles: Any miles you have accrued on your Explorer Card will be transferred to your Infinite Card upon upgrade.
- Existing Card Benefits: Some benefits of the Explorer Card, such as free checked bags on partner airlines, will not be available on the Infinite Card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I upgrade my United Explorer Card to Infinite if I have a low credit score?
A: While the minimum credit score requirement is typically 700, United may consider applicants with lower scores if they have a strong payment history and other positive factors.
Q: Will I lose my earned miles if I upgrade?
A: No, all miles earned on your Explorer Card will be transferred to your Infinite Card upon upgrade.
Q: Is the upgrade fee refundable?
A: No, the upgrade fee is non-refundable.
Q: Can I downgrade my Infinite Card to Explorer Card later?
A: Yes, you can downgrade your card at any time by contacting United Customer Service. However, you will forfeit any remaining benefits of the Infinite Card.
Q: What is the difference between the United Explorer Card and the United Club Card?
A: The United Club Card offers unlimited access to United Club lounges, while the Explorer Card does not. However, the Explorer Card has a lower annual fee and earns 2x miles on United purchases compared to 1x mile on the Club Card.
