3.8 / 5
- Welcome
- 80,000 points
- Annual fee
- $149
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Chase · southwest
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card
3.9 / 5
Southwest Rapid Rewards points · Personal card
The entry Southwest card got more valuable when bags stopped being free. If you fly Southwest twice a year with a checked bag, the math works.
At a glance
- Welcome bonus
- 50,000 points
- Spend $1,000 in 3 months
- Annual fee
- $99
- Year-one and ongoing
- Purchase APR
- 19.49% to 27.99%
- No intro APR
- FX fee
- None
Editorial
Our take
The entry Southwest card got more valuable when bags stopped being free. If you fly Southwest twice a year with a checked bag, the math works.
Verdict
Pros & cons
Pros
- Free checked bag benefit
- Group 5 boarding
- No more foreign transaction fee
Cons
- 1x outside small bonus categories
- $99 fee on an entry card
Earnings
Earn rates
| Category | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Southwest purchases | 2x points | |
| Gas stations | 2x points | Combined with grocery stores, on the first $5,000 per year.·cap $5,000 |
| Groceries | 2x points | Combined with gas stations, on the first $5,000 per year.·cap $5,000 |
| All other purchases | 1x points |
Benefits
Key benefits
Free first checked bag
For you and up to 8 companions on the same reservation, now that Southwest charges for bags.
3,000 anniversary points
Plus a 10,000-point Companion Pass qualifying boost each year.
Fit
Who this is best for
- Occasional Southwest flyers who check bags
- Companion Pass chasers starting out
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the Southwest Plus welcome bonus?
Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Does the Southwest Plus charge an annual fee?
Yes. The annual fee is $99 every year.
Does the Southwest Plus have a foreign transaction fee?
No. The Southwest Plus charges no foreign transaction fee, so it works well for international purchases.
What APR does the Southwest Plus charge?
The purchase APR is 19.49% to 27.99% variable.
Who is the Southwest Plus best for?
Occasional Southwest flyers who check bags. Companion Pass chasers starting out.
Similar
Related cards
4.3 / 5
- Welcome
- 60,000 points
- Annual fee
- $229
4.0 / 5
- Welcome
- 55,000 points
- Annual fee
- $149
Apply
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card
Spend $1,000 in 3 months
Rates accurate as of October 6, 2026. Issuer terms.