Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card: Use Current Offer

This guide explains how to take advantage of the current Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card sign-up bonus and spending requirements. You’ll learn how to qualify for the bonus points, meet the minimum spend, and use the points to book flights or other rewards. Before you begin, check your credit score and review the offer terms to ensure you can meet the spending requirement without straining your budget.

What You’ll Need

• An active Southwest Rapid Rewards account (free to create at southwest.com if you don’t have one)
• A credit score that likely qualifies for the card (typically good to excellent, around 700+)
• The current offer details from Chase (the issuer) or a promotional email
• A plan to spend the required amount within the specified timeframe (e.g., $3,000 in 3 months)
• A way to track your spending (e.g., a spreadsheet or budgeting app)

Step-by-Step

1. Check the current offer. Go to the Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card page on Chase’s website or use a promotional link from your email. Note the exact bonus amount (e.g., 50,000 points) and the spending requirement (e.g., $3,000 in 3 months). Also note the annual fee (if any) and the APR.
2. Verify your Rapid Rewards account. If you don’t have one, sign up at southwest.com. Your Rapid Rewards number will be linked to the credit card when you apply. Keep this number handy.
3. Apply for the card. Click the “Apply Now” button on the offer page. Fill out the application with your personal and financial information. Ensure your name and address match your Rapid Rewards account to avoid delays.
4. Wait for approval. You may get an instant decision, or it may take a few days. If approved, you’ll receive your card in the mail within 7-10 business days. If denied, you can call Chase’s reconsideration line (found on the denial letter) to ask for a review.
5. Activate your card. When the card arrives, call the number on the sticker or activate it online through your Chase account.
6. Set a spending plan. Calculate how much you need to spend each month to hit the requirement. For example, if you need $3,000 in 3 months, that’s $1,000 per month. Break it down weekly to stay on track.
7. Use the card for everyday purchases. Put regular expenses like groceries, gas, and utility bills on the card. You can also prepay for upcoming expenses (e.g., insurance premiums, taxes) if you have the cash to cover them.
8. Track your spending. Log into your Chase account regularly to see your progress. You can also set a reminder on your phone for the deadline date. Chase typically shows a progress bar for the bonus on your account summary page.
9. Meet the minimum spend before the deadline. Ensure your purchases post to the account before the statement closing date that falls within the 3-month window. If you’re short, consider buying gift cards at stores you frequent (e.g., grocery stores) to cover the gap—but only if you’ll use them anyway.
10. Wait for bonus points to post. After you meet the spending requirement, the bonus points typically appear in your Rapid Rewards account within 8-12 weeks. You’ll see them in your Southwest account under “Points Activity.”
11. Use your points. Log into southwest.com, search for flights, and select “Points” as your payment method. You can also redeem points for hotel stays, car rentals, or gift cards through the Rapid Rewards portal.

Common Mistakes

• Missing the deadline. The spending window starts on your account opening date, not the day you receive the card. Track it carefully.
• Ignoring the annual fee. Some Southwest cards have a $69-$99 annual fee that is not waived. Factor this into your decision.
• Spending more than you can afford. Do not buy things you don’t need just to hit the bonus. The points are not worth going into debt.
• Forgetting to activate the card. You can’t use the card or earn points until it’s activated.
• Using the card for cash advances. Cash advances do not count toward the minimum spend and incur high fees and interest.

Tips

• Combine with a companion pass. If the offer includes a companion pass (e.g., after 125,000 points earned in a year), plan your spending to maximize that benefit.
• Pay your balance in full each month. Avoid interest charges that could negate the value of the bonus.
• Use the card for large planned purchases. If you have a big expense like a car repair or tuition, put it on the card to reach the threshold quickly.
• Check for extra point opportunities. Southwest often offers bonus points for dining or shopping through their portal. Link your card to earn extra points.
• Set up autopay. This ensures you never miss a payment, which could hurt your credit and delay the bonus.

Troubleshooting

• Bonus points not showing. If you’ve met the spend and 8-12 weeks have passed, contact Chase via secure message or call the number on your card. Have your statement showing the spend ready.
• Application denied. Call Chase’s reconsideration line (usually listed on the denial letter). Explain your situation, ask for a review, and mention any positive factors (e.g., existing banking relationship).
• Spend not counting. Some transactions like fees, interest, or cash advances are excluded. Check the offer terms. If a legitimate purchase didn’t count, wait a few days—it may take time to post.
• Card not arriving. If it’s been more than 10 business days, call Chase to request a replacement or verify the shipping address.
• Points in wrong account. If your Rapid Rewards number was entered incorrectly, call Chase to update it. Points may take an extra billing cycle to appear.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to spend the required amount?

Typically 3 months from account opening, but check the offer terms. Some offers may give 4 months or a higher spend for more points.

Do I need a Southwest Rapid Rewards account before applying?

No, but it’s recommended. You can create one during the application process or after approval. Your points will be deposited there.

Can I get the bonus if I already have a Southwest credit card?

Chase’s rules usually prevent getting the bonus if you currently have or have had the same card within the last 24 months. Check the offer’s “Additional Information” section.

What counts toward the minimum spend?

Purchases, balance transfers (usually), and fees (like annual fee) count. Cash advances and interest charges do not. Gift cards purchased with the card generally count.

When do the bonus points expire?

Rapid Rewards points do not expire as long as your account remains active. However, if you close your Southwest account, you may lose them.

Can I use the points for anything besides flights?

Yes, you can redeem points for hotel stays, car rentals, gift cards, and more through the Rapid Rewards portal. Flight redemptions usually offer the best value.

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