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Introduction
When it comes to choosing a credit card for your business, there are numerous options available in the market. One such option is the United Business Card, offered by United Airlines. With its attractive rewards program and exclusive benefits, this card has gained popularity among business owners. However, before you jump on the bandwagon, it is essential to evaluate whether the United Business Card is truly a united front or if it has some potential pitfalls. In this article, we will delve into the features, benefits, and drawbacks of the United Business Card to help you make an informed decision.
The United Business Card: An Overview
The United Business Card is a co-branded credit card offered by United Airlines in partnership with Chase. It is specifically designed for small business owners who frequently travel with United Airlines. The card offers a range of benefits and rewards tailored to meet the needs of business travelers.
Key Features
- Earn 2 miles per dollar spent on United Airlines purchases
- Earn 2 miles per dollar spent on local transit and commuting, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and public transportation
- Earn 2 miles per dollar spent on dining at restaurants, including eligible delivery services
- Earn 1 mile per dollar spent on all other purchases
- Free checked bag for the cardholder and one companion on the same reservation
- Premier upgrades on award tickets
- 25% back on United inflight purchases
- Access to United Club℠ and participating Star Alliance™ affiliated lounges worldwide
Annual Fee
The United Business Card comes with an annual fee of $99, which is relatively standard for premium travel credit cards. However, the benefits and rewards offered by the card can easily outweigh this fee if you frequently travel with United Airlines.
Pros of the United Business Card
Generous Rewards Program
One of the standout features of the United Business Card is its rewards program. With 2 miles per dollar spent on United Airlines purchases, local transit and commuting, and dining at restaurants, cardholders can quickly accumulate miles for future travel. Additionally, the 1 mile per dollar spent on all other purchases ensures that you earn rewards even when you're not traveling.
Travel Benefits
The United Business Card offers a range of travel benefits that can enhance your travel experience. The free checked bag benefit alone can save you up to $120 per round trip, making it a valuable perk for frequent flyers. Premier upgrades on award tickets and access to United Club℠ and participating Star Alliance™ affiliated lounges provide added comfort and convenience during your travels.
Exclusive Offers and Discounts
Cardholders of the United Business Card also gain access to exclusive offers and discounts. These can include discounted rates on hotel bookings, car rentals, and even access to special events. These perks can help you save money and make your business trips more enjoyable.
Cons of the United Business Card
Limited Redemption Options
While the United Business Card offers generous rewards, the redemption options are somewhat limited. The miles earned can primarily be used for United Airlines flights and upgrades. If you prefer to have more flexibility in redeeming your rewards for various airlines or other travel expenses, this card may not be the best fit for you.
High Spending Threshold for Elite Status
If you aspire to achieve elite status with United Airlines, the United Business Card may not be the most effective tool. The card offers a spending waiver for Premier Qualifying Dollars (PQD) requirement, but it still requires a significant amount of spending to reach the elite status tiers. If elite status is a priority for you, it may be worth considering other credit cards that offer more favorable qualification criteria.
Annual Fee
While the annual fee of $99 is reasonable considering the benefits offered, it may still be a deterrent for some business owners, especially those who do not frequently travel with United Airlines. If you do not anticipate utilizing the card's benefits enough to offset the annual fee, it may be worth exploring other credit card options with lower or no annual fees.
Conclusion
The United Business Card can be a valuable tool for business owners who frequently travel with United Airlines. Its generous rewards program, travel benefits, and exclusive offers make it an attractive choice. However, it is important to consider the limited redemption options, high spending threshold for elite status, and the annual fee before making a decision.
If you are a loyal United Airlines customer and can take full advantage of the card's benefits, the United Business Card can be a united front for your business. However, if you prefer more flexibility in redemption options or have different priorities, it may be worth exploring other credit card options that better align with your needs.
Ultimately, the decision to choose the United Business Card or any other credit card for your business should be based on a thorough evaluation of your travel patterns, spending habits, and financial goals. By considering all the factors and weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that will benefit your business in the long run.
