The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card, issued by Chase, is the premium version of Southwest’s co-branded cards — offering anniversary points, annual travel credits, upgraded boardings, and priority perks that more than justify the annual fee for frequent travelers.
What Is the Southwest Priority Card?
This is the top-tier consumer credit card in the Southwest Airlines lineup. It’s designed for travelers who consistently fly Southwest and want to earn Rapid Rewards points faster, enjoy travel savings, and work toward the Companion Pass® — one of the most valuable perks in domestic travel.
Key Features and Benefits
Welcome Bonus
Earn 85,000 Rapid Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
That’s enough for multiple domestic round-trip flights, depending on fare type and timing.
Anniversary Bonus
Get 7,500 bonus points every cardmember anniversary — worth approximately $100–$120 in flight value.
$75 Southwest Annual Travel Credit
Automatically receive up to $75 in statement credits per year for Southwest purchases made with your card — helps offset the annual fee.
4 Upgraded Boardings Per Year
Receive four upgraded boarding positions (A1–A15) each year when available — a huge advantage for securing the best seat and overhead bin space.
Earn Toward Companion Pass
All points earned with the card (including from the welcome bonus and spend) count toward earning the Companion Pass, one of the most valuable perks in travel: a free seat for your chosen companion (just pay taxes/fees).
Priority Perks
- 25% back on inflight drinks and Wi-Fi
- No blackout dates when redeeming points
- No change fees on tickets
- Free checked bags (always included on Southwest)
Points Earning Structure
- 3X points on Southwest® purchases
- 2X points on local transit, rideshares, internet, cable, and phone services
- 2X points on select streaming services
- 1X point on all other purchases
All Rapid Rewards points have no expiration and no blackout dates when booking award travel.
Fees and Requirements
- Annual Fee: $149
- Foreign Transaction Fees: None
- APR: Variable (typically 21.49%–28.49%)
- Credit Score Needed: Good to Excellent (typically 700+ FICO)
How to Apply
- Visit southwest.com/creditcards
- Choose the Priority Card and review the most current welcome offer
- Complete the online Chase application with your personal and financial information
- Instant approval is common for qualified applicants
- Start using your card to earn points and travel benefits right away
Conclusion: Is the Southwest Priority Card Worth It?
Yes — for dedicated Southwest flyers, it’s the best value card available.
With $75 annual credit, 7,500 anniversary points, and 4 upgraded boardings, much of the $149 annual fee is offset automatically. Add to that strong earning potential, travel protection, and Companion Pass eligibility, and you get:
âś… High ROI for frequent Southwest travelers
âś… Tangible, easy-to-use perks
✅ Progress toward free flights — for you and your companion
If Southwest is your airline of choice, this card is the most rewarding long-term option in the lineup.
