What are the best credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck?
For frequent travelers, TSA PreCheck services can be invaluable. For low-risk passengers, global entry is another excellent service that can speed checking in along. Did you know that some credit cards offer reimbursement for global entry or TSA PreCheck services just for having it? We’re going to go over what these two things are before listing a few credit cards you can compare below.
Defining TSA PreCheck
If you enroll for TSA PreCheck, you get a few benefits. First, you go through a special security line. You won’t have to remove your jacket, belt, laptop, or liquids from your bag. The lines are also significantly shorter than traditional TSA lines. This can help you get on your flight quicker with less hassle.
You do have to renew your TSA PreCheck every five years. So without a credit card that reimburses you, you’ll pay $85 for the service. There are over 200 airports that accept this service, and there is no age limit to use it. It’s open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and permanent residents.
Defining Global Entry
The second perk travelers can use is the Global Entry system. If you enroll in this system, you’ll automatically enroll in the TSA PreCheck. Participants get expedited clearance using special kiosks when they arrive in the United States. You go to the machine, present your passport, scan your fingerprints, and sign a customs declaration.
The kiosk will then print you a receipt, and you’re free to go to the baggage claim. You renew your enrollment every five years, and the cost by itself is $100. You won’t go through processing lines, and it reduces your wait times. There is no age limit for this program. It’s open to U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, and citizens of certain countries.
The Eight Best Travel Cards That Come With Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Reimbursement
Now that you know what both perks are, we’ll go over a few cards that offer reimbursement. Remember, if you have Global Entry, you automatically have TSA PreCheck enrollment. Before applying it is important to read all terms and conditions of each offer. The best cards include:
1. Capital One Venture Rewards Card
Capital One Venture card gives you a $100 credit every four years for either fee. All you have to do is pay for them with your card. Additionally, you get 50,000 miles for spending $3,000 in the first three months. You can earn unlimited double miles on each purchase. If you stay at certain hotels and pay for it with the card, you get bonus miles. The first year has no annual fee; then it goes to $95.
2. Citi Prestige Card
You can earn up to $250 in travel credit each year with the Citi Prestige® Card. You get five times the points on airlines and three times at hotels and cruises. If you spend $4,000 in the first three months, you get a 50,000-mile bonus. This card does have a steep $495 annual fee attached to it. However, extensive travelers can balance it out with rewards.
3. Bank of America Premium Rewards
With the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card, you’ll get two points for every dollar spent on travel. One point for everything else. There is a 50,000-mile welcome bonus for spending $3,000 in the first three months. There is no foreign transaction fee, and this makes it excellent for global use. The $95 annual fee is very reasonable for a rewards card as well.
4. American Express Platinum Card
Every four years, this card will reimburse you $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fees. Every flight you book directly through the airport and pay for with this card earns five points per dollar. So if you book hotels through amextravel.com, you’ll earn five points per dollar. Every other dollar spent is one point. You’ll get 60,000 points for spending $5,000 in the first three months. There is an annual fee of $550.
5. United Explorer Card
The United Explorer Card launched in 2018, will reimburse your fees once every four years. There is a $95 annual fee they waive the first year. Credits post within 24 hours, and this makes it extremely quick. You’ll earn double points for United purchases and double points for hotel and restaurant accommodations. Priority boarding, free checked bag, two lounge passes for United, and 25% back on in-flight purchases are available.
6. Chase Sapphire Reserve Card
With the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, you’ll get $100 back once every four years for your application fees. Each year, you’ll get a $300 statement credit to cover your travel expenses. The card gives you 50,000 points if you spend $4,000 in the first three months. It also comes with triple points per dollar spent on travel and dining purchases. The annual fee is $450.
7. Citi AAdvantage Executive World Elite MasterCard
Every five years, you’ll get a reimbursement for your fees. If you spend $5,000 in the first three months, you’ll get a 50,000-mile bonus. There is a full Admirals Club membership that gives you access to 120 lounges across 90 countries. Since an Admirals Club membership is $500 by itself, this makes up for the $450 annual fee. You’ll earn priority boarding, 25% reimbursement for in-flight purchases, and Elite Qualifying Miles.
8. MasterCard Black Card
This card offers one point for each dollar you spend. You can redeem them at a rate of 2% for airline credit or 1.5% for cash back. It comes with a $100 annual travel credit and no foreign transaction fee. The Luxury Card VIP Travel Program is another perk. It gives you upgrades, complimentary food and beverages, car rental, and spa credits. It has a $495 annual fee.
Bottom Line on the Best Credit Cards for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry
For travelers, having the correct cards can result in huge savings year after year. So Global Entry and TSA PreCheck service reimbursement alone can save you hundreds of dollars. We invite you to compare the various cards we laid out for you above side by side. This will help you match the best card for your preferences to maximize your savings. Safe travels!
CreditFast has reviewed the best travel credit cards on the market. Some of the credit card offers are from our advertising partners. CreditFast has objectively reviewed the features and benefits of each travel credit card. We have chosen travel credit card offers based on our editor’s recommendations.
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