What To Know
- This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies you need to conquer the Southwest credit card annual fee and unlock a world of budget-friendly adventures.
- The most popular cards, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card, come with annual fees of $69 and $99, respectively.
- The Southwest Airlines Credit Card has a lower annual fee of $29 and offers a generous sign-up bonus, making it a good option for occasional Southwest travelers.
Navigating the world of travel rewards can be daunting, especially when it comes to annual credit card fees. But fear not, Southwest enthusiasts! This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies you need to conquer the Southwest credit card annual fee and unlock a world of budget-friendly adventures.
Understanding the Southwest Credit Card Annual Fee
The Southwest credit card lineup offers a range of cards, each with its own annual fee. The most popular cards, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card, come with annual fees of $69 and $99, respectively.
Strategies for Waiving the Annual Fee
1. Meet the Minimum Spend Requirement
Southwest often offers promotions where new cardholders can waive the annual fee by meeting a minimum spending requirement within a certain time frame. Typically, this requirement falls between $1,000 and $5,000.
2. Call Customer Service and Negotiate
If you’ve been a loyal Southwest customer and have a good payment history, you can try calling customer service and requesting a fee waiver. Be polite and explain your situation, and they may be willing to accommodate you.
3. Use the Companion Pass
The Southwest Companion Pass is a coveted benefit that allows you to bring a companion along for free on every flight. One of the ways to earn the Companion Pass is by spending $125,000 on your Southwest credit card within a calendar year. Once you have the Companion Pass, your annual fee will be waived for the duration of the benefit.
4. Downgrade to a No-Fee Card
If you’re not interested in the benefits offered by the higher-tier cards, you can downgrade to the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Card, which has no annual fee. However, keep in mind that you may lose some of the perks associated with the premium cards.
5. Cancel the Card
As a last resort, you can cancel your Southwest credit card before the annual fee is due. However, this option should be considered carefully, as it may negatively impact your credit score.
Other Ways to Save on Southwest Travel
1. Earn Southwest Points
Use your Southwest credit card for everyday purchases to earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points, which can be redeemed for free flights.
2. Take Advantage of Promotions
Southwest frequently offers promotions and discounts on flights, so be sure to check their website and social media pages for the latest deals.
3. Consider the Southwest Airlines Credit Card
The Southwest Airlines Credit Card has a lower annual fee of $29 and offers a generous sign-up bonus, making it a good option for occasional Southwest travelers.
The Bottom Line: Unlocking Southwest Savings
By following these strategies, you can conquer the Southwest credit card annual fee and enjoy the benefits of budget-friendly travel. Whether you’re a seasoned Southwest warrior or just starting your journey, this guide will help you unlock a world of adventure without breaking the bank.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I waive the annual fee on all Southwest credit cards?
A: No, only the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card have annual fees that can be waived.
Q: What is the minimum spending requirement to waive the annual fee?
A: The minimum spending requirement varies but typically falls between $1,000 and $5,000.
Q: Can I negotiate the annual fee with customer service?
A: Yes, you can call customer service and request a fee waiver, but approval is not guaranteed.
Q: How long does the Companion Pass last?
A: The Companion Pass is valid for 12 months from the date it is earned.
Q: Will canceling my card affect my credit score?
A: Yes, canceling your credit card can negatively impact your credit score, especially if you have a high credit utilization ratio.
