What Credit Score Do You Need for a Southwest Credit Card? A Comprehensive Guide
In the wake of Southwest Airlines' recent credit card shakeup, many travelers are wondering about the requirements for obtaining one of these popular rewards cards. This comprehensive guide will explore the credit score requirements for Southwest credit cards, analyze the recent changes to the card lineup, and provide valuable insights for both current and prospective cardholders.
Understanding Southwest's Credit Card Offerings
Before delving into credit score requirements, it's essential to understand the current Southwest credit card landscape. The airline offers three primary consumer cards:
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
This entry-level card has seen its annual fee increase from $69 to $99, a 43% jump. Despite the higher cost, it remains the most accessible option for those looking to enter the Southwest rewards ecosystem.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
The mid-tier option now comes with a $149 annual fee, up from $99. This 50% increase reflects enhanced benefits that may appeal to more frequent Southwest flyers.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
The premium offering in Southwest's lineup has experienced the most significant fee hike, jumping from $149 to $229 annually – a 54% increase. Notably, this card has also lost its $75 annual travel credit, a change that has left many cardholders reevaluating its value proposition.
Credit Score Requirements for Southwest Credit Cards
While Southwest and Chase (the issuing bank) don't publicly disclose specific credit score cutoffs, historical data and industry insights provide a good indication of what you'll need to qualify for these cards.
Minimum Credit Score for Approval
Generally, you'll need a good to excellent credit score to be approved for a Southwest credit card. Here's a breakdown of the estimated minimum scores for each card:
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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card: A credit score of 670 or higher is typically required. This falls within the "good" range of FICO scores.
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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card: Applicants should aim for a credit score of 700 or above. This is in the upper end of the "good" range or the lower end of the "very good" range.
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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card: As the premium option, this card generally requires a credit score of 720 or higher, solidly in the "very good" range.
It's important to note that these are estimated minimums. A higher credit score will increase your chances of approval and may lead to better initial credit limits or interest rates.
Factors Beyond Credit Score
While your credit score is a crucial factor in the approval process, it's not the only consideration. Chase and Southwest also evaluate:
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Income: Your annual income helps determine your ability to manage credit responsibly.
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Existing relationship with Chase: Having other Chase accounts in good standing can work in your favor.
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Credit utilization: Lower credit utilization ratios are viewed more favorably.
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Recent credit inquiries: Too many recent applications for credit can be a red flag.
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Employment status: Stable employment is viewed positively by card issuers.
Improving Your Chances of Approval
If your credit score is on the borderline for the Southwest card you're interested in, consider these strategies to improve your approval odds:
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Pay down existing debt to lower your credit utilization ratio.
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Ensure all your credit accounts are current and in good standing.
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Avoid applying for new credit in the months leading up to your Southwest card application.
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If you have a banking relationship with Chase, consider waiting until you've been a customer for at least six months before applying.
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Use a pre-qualification tool to gauge your approval chances without impacting your credit score.
Recent Changes to Southwest Credit Cards: What You Need to Know
The recent overhaul of Southwest's credit card lineup has brought significant changes that potential applicants should be aware of:
New Benefits
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Free checked bags: While this benefit remains, its value has diminished since Southwest eliminated free bags for all passengers in May 2025.
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Seat selection:
- Plus cardholders can select standard seats within 48 hours of departure.
- Premier cardholders have access to standard or preferred seats within 48 hours.
- Priority cardholders can choose preferred seats at booking and receive free Extra Legroom upgrades.
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Boarding: All cardholders now receive Group 5 boarding out of 8 groups in the new system launching January 2026.
Benefits on the Chopping Block
By the end of 2025, all Southwest credit cards will lose 2x earning on several categories:
- Local transit and commuting
- Internet, cable, and phone services
- Some hotel and car rental partners
The Priority card will also lose its $75 travel credit and upgraded boarding perks.
The Companion Pass Strategy: Still Viable?
Despite the changes, Southwest is currently offering a substantial welcome bonus that could make the Companion Pass strategy attractive for some travelers:
- Current offer: 100,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 5 months (valid through September 17th)
To maximize this opportunity:
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Apply in early September, but complete the spending requirement after your December statement closes. This timing ensures points post in January 2026, potentially giving you Companion Pass benefits through 2027.
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Bridge the gap to the required 135,000 points through strategic spending, additional card signups, or a combination of methods.
However, be aware that Southwest has been surveying customers about potential Companion Pass changes, so the rules may shift before 2026.
Evaluating Alternatives: Is It Time to Switch?
With the increased fees and reduced benefits of Southwest cards, it's worth considering alternatives that might offer better value:
Airline-Specific Cards
- The New United℠ Explorer Card ($95 annual fee)
- The New United Quest℠ Card ($350 annual fee)
- Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card ($0 annual fee)
Flexible Travel Rewards Cards
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card ($95 annual fee)
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card ($95 annual fee)
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ($395 annual fee)
Cash Back Options
- Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card ($0 annual fee)
- Chase Freedom Unlimited® ($0 annual fee)
Making the Right Choice for Your Travel Needs
The value proposition of Southwest credit cards has shifted significantly. Here's how to determine if a Southwest card is still right for you:
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Companion Pass Seekers: If you can execute the timing strategy, the current welcome offer presents a valuable opportunity.
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Frequent Southwest Flyers: The new seat selection benefits may justify the increased fees if you fly Southwest regularly.
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Occasional Southwest Travelers: Consider alternatives, as the value proposition has weakened for infrequent flyers.
Final Thoughts: Navigating the New Southwest Credit Card Landscape
Southwest's credit card shakeup reflects a broader shift in their business model, moving away from their unique value proposition towards a more conventional airline pricing structure. For consumers, this means carefully evaluating whether the new fees and benefits align with their travel habits and financial goals.
If Southwest's routes and service still work well for your needs, consider going all-in with their credit card offerings to maximize benefits. However, if you're a more diverse traveler or value flexibility, it may be time to explore alternative cards that offer better rewards and perks for your spending patterns.
Remember, the credit card landscape is always evolving. Stay informed about changes, regularly reassess your credit card strategy, and don't hesitate to switch to options that provide better value for your specific situation. While the era of easy value with Southwest may be changing, opportunities for savvy travelers to maximize their rewards still abound in the broader credit card market.
FAQs about Southwest's Credit Card Shakeup: Higher Fees, Fewer Benefits
Q: Why did Southwest increase their credit card annual fees?
A: Southwest increased annual fees to offset the costs of new benefits and to align with industry trends. The airline is likely trying to maintain profitability in the face of rising operational costs and changes to their overall business model.
Q: Are the new Southwest credit cards worth the higher fees?
A: The value depends on your travel habits. For frequent Southwest flyers who can take advantage of the new seat selection benefits and still find value in the Companion Pass, the cards may be worth it. However, occasional travelers may find better value with other travel rewards cards.
Q: How does the credit score requirement for Southwest cards compare to other airline cards?
A: The credit score requirements for Southwest cards are generally in line with other major airline co-branded credit cards. Most require good to excellent credit, typically meaning a FICO score of 670 or higher.
Q: Can I still get the Companion Pass with the new credit card changes?
A: Yes, the Companion Pass is still attainable through credit card sign-up bonuses and spending. However, the strategy may require more planning and potentially higher spending than before. Keep an eye out for potential changes to the Companion Pass program in the future.
Q: If I already have a Southwest credit card, will my annual fee increase?
A: Existing cardholders may see their annual fees increase upon their next card anniversary date. It's best to check with Chase or Southwest directly for information specific to your account.
Q: Are there any new benefits that offset the higher annual fees?
A: The new seat selection benefits are the primary addition to offset higher fees. Whether these benefits justify the increased cost depends on how frequently you fly Southwest and how much you value seat selection.
Q: Should I cancel my Southwest credit card due to these changes?
A: Before canceling, evaluate how often you use the card's benefits and compare them to the new annual fee. Consider downgrading to a lower-tier Southwest card or exploring alternative travel rewards cards that might better suit your needs.
Q: Will these changes affect my existing Rapid Rewards points?
A: The changes to the credit cards do not directly affect existing Rapid Rewards points. However, the elimination of certain bonus categories may impact how quickly you earn points in the future.
Q: Can I still transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Southwest?
A: Yes, Chase Ultimate Rewards points can still be transferred to Southwest Rapid Rewards at a 1:1 ratio, provided you have an eligible Chase card like the Sapphire Preferred or Sapphire Reserve.
Q: How do Southwest's new credit card offerings compare to other airlines?
A: With the recent changes, Southwest's credit card offerings are now more closely aligned with other major airlines in terms of annual fees and benefits. However, the unique aspects of Southwest's fare structure and the Companion Pass still set them apart in some ways.