United Gateway Credit Card: A Comprehensive Guide

The United Gateway Credit Card is one of the leading travel credit cards offered by Chase, in collaboration with United Airlines. Designed for frequent travelers, particularly those who frequently fly with United Airlines or its partners, this credit card offers a range of benefits to help customers earn rewards and save on travel expenses. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the United Gateway Credit Card, including its features, benefits, how to apply for it, and much more.

Key Features of the United Gateway Credit Card

1. Earn MileagePlus Miles The most prominent feature of the United Gateway Credit Card is its ability to earn United MileagePlus miles, which can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and other travel-related expenses. The cardholders can earn miles in various categories:
   • 2 miles per $1 spent on United Airlines purchases: This includes purchases made directly with United Airlines, whether for flights, baggage, or other travel-related expenses.
   • 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, including takeout and delivery: Dining out or ordering food for delivery is a great way to accumulate miles, making this a highly rewarding category for cardholders who love to eat out.
   • 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases: While not as generous as the other categories, this still helps you earn miles on your everyday spending.
   In addition, cardholders earn 10,000 bonus miles after spending $1,000 in the first three months from account opening.
2. No Annual Fee One of the main selling points of the United Gateway Credit Card is that it does not charge an annual fee. This makes it an appealing option for travelers who want to earn rewards without the burden of high yearly fees.
3. Travel Perks While the United Gateway Credit Card is considered an entry-level travel credit card, it still offers valuable travel perks:
   • Free First Checked Bag on United Airlines Flights: Cardholders can enjoy a free first checked bag for themselves and a companion traveling on the same reservation when flying United Airlines. This perk can save cardholders and their travel companions up to $35 per checked bag, per flight.
   • Priority Boarding: Cardholders are eligible for Priority Boarding on United Airlines flights, meaning you can board earlier, secure overhead bin space, and settle in faster.
   • No Foreign Transaction Fees: For international travelers, this is an essential feature. The card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it a great choice for purchases abroad.
4. Access to MileagePlus X App The United Gateway Credit Card gives you access to the MileagePlus X app, which allows you to earn additional miles on purchases at participating merchants. This app can help you accelerate your earning potential by allowing you to earn miles from popular stores and restaurants.
5. Exclusive Discounts and Offers Cardholders have access to exclusive discounts and offers from United Airlines and partners. This can include discounts on flights, hotels, car rentals, and other travel-related products and services.

How to Use the United Gateway Credit Card Effectively

To maximize the value of your United Gateway Credit Card, consider the following tips:

• Pay attention to spending categories: Make sure to use the card for purchases that earn 2 miles per dollar, such as United Airlines flights and dining. This will allow you to accumulate miles more quickly.
• Take advantage of bonus offers: The 10,000-mile bonus for spending $1,000 in the first three months is a great way to get a head start on earning miles. Be sure to meet the spending requirement to receive this bonus.
• Use the MileagePlus X app: The app helps you earn additional miles on everyday purchases, so be sure to use it when shopping with participating merchants.
• Plan your travel to maximize benefits: The free checked bag and priority boarding benefits are useful when traveling on United Airlines. Use these perks when booking your flights with United or its partners.

How to Apply for the United Gateway Credit Card

Applying for the United Gateway Credit Card is a straightforward process. Below are the steps you should follow:

1. Visit the Chase website: Go to the official Chase website or the United Airlines website. From there, you can navigate to the credit card section to find the United Gateway Credit Card application page.
2. Check your eligibility: Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for the card. Generally, you must have a good to excellent credit score (typically 670 or higher). Chase also reviews your income and debt-to-income ratio to assess whether you can handle the credit card’s payment requirements.
3. Complete the online application: Once you’re on the application page, you will need to fill out the online application form. This typically requires you to provide personal information such as:
   • Full name
   • Address
   • Social Security Number (for credit check purposes)
   • Date of birth
   • Employment and income details
4. Review your application: Double-check all of the information you’ve entered to make sure it’s accurate. Once you’ve confirmed the details, you can submit your application.
5. Wait for approval: In most cases, Chase will provide an instant decision on your application. However, in some instances, you may need to wait a few days for your application to be reviewed further. If you’re approved, you’ll receive your card in the mail within 7-10 business days.
6. Activate your card: Once you receive your United Gateway Credit Card, activate it by following the instructions provided. You can activate the card online, through the Chase mobile app, or by calling the customer service number on the back of the card.

Final Thoughts on the United Gateway Credit Card

The United Gateway Credit Card is an excellent option for those who frequently fly with United Airlines or who want to earn travel rewards on everyday spending. Its simple earning structure, valuable travel perks, and lack of an annual fee make it an appealing choice for travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re planning a vacation or simply want to earn miles for your next flight, this card offers a straightforward way to make the most of your purchases.

If you’re interested in the card, make sure to review your spending habits and travel goals to determine if this is the right card for you. With its generous rewards and travel benefits, the United Gateway Credit Card can help you earn miles and enjoy a more comfortable travel experience.