United Gateway – How to Apply

By Raquel Oliveira • 03/05/2025

United Gateway card offers Double miles on United Airlines purchases.

The United Gateway Card is a fantastic option for those looking to earn miles without annual fees. Every dollar spent translates into points that can be redeemed for future travel, making it a valuable choice for frequent travelers.

A major highlight is the welcome bonus, where new cardholders can earn 30,000 bonus miles after spending $1,000 within the first three months. Additionally, adding an authorized user during this period grants an extra 5,000 miles, boosting earning potential.

This card is managed through the Chase platform, offering real-time spending tracking, reward management, and account monitoring via the Chase website and mobile app, simplifying financial management for users.

Beyond earning miles, the United Gateway Card provides exclusive travel benefits, such as discounts on in-flight purchases and trip protection, making it an ideal option for frequent travelers and those seeking to maximize rewards on everyday spending.

How Does the United Gateway Card Work

The United Gateway Card operates on a mileage-based rewards system. Every purchase made with the card earns miles, which can later be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.

For every dollar spent on United Airlines purchases, cardholders earn double miles. This means that frequent United Airlines travelers can accumulate rewards at a faster rate compared to other purchases.

Additionally, the card grants double miles on gas station and public transit purchases. This benefit is ideal for those who commute regularly or spend a significant amount on fuel, maximizing everyday rewards.

All other purchases earn one mile per dollar spent. Since there is no cap on mileage accumulation, users can continue to earn rewards without restrictions, making it a valuable long-term option.

Main Benefits of the United Gateway Card

• No annual fee, making it an accessible choice for those who want travel rewards.
• Earn 30,000 bonus miles after spending 1,000 dollars in the first three months.
• Additional 5,000 bonus miles when adding an authorized user within the first 90 days.
• Double miles on United Airlines purchases, helping frequent travelers accumulate rewards faster.
• Double miles on gas stations and public transit, increasing mileage earnings on everyday expenses.
• Trip protection benefits, offering coverage for flight delays and other travel inconveniences.
• No foreign transaction fees, making it a good card for international travel.
• Discounts on in-flight purchases, providing extra savings for travelers.

Cons of the United Gateway Card

• No priority boarding or free checked bags, making it less attractive for frequent United Airlines travelers.

• High APR after the introductory period, which can lead to increased interest costs.

• Limited mileage redemption options, restricting travel flexibility compared to general travel rewards cards.

Approval may require a good credit score, limiting access for those with lower credit ratings.

APR and Fees

The United Gateway Card offers a competitive introductory APR, but users should be aware of ongoing interest rates and potential charges.

• Zero percent APR on purchases for the first 12 months.
• Variable APR ranging from 20.99 percent to 27.99 percent after the promotional period.
• No annual fee, making it a cost-effective choice for earning miles.
• Late payment fees of up to 41 dollars, requiring careful payment management.
• No foreign transaction fees, making it an excellent choice for international travelers.
• Balance transfer fee of 5 percent or a minimum of 5 dollars, whichever is greater.

How to Apply for the United Gateway Card

Applying for the United Gateway Card is simple and can be done directly through the official website. The process is straightforward and requires only a few basic personal and financial details.

• Visit the Chase website and locate the United Gateway Card application page.
• Fill out the online form, providing your full name, address, and financial information.
• Submit the application for credit review and wait for approval.
• If approved, your card will be mailed to you within a few business days.

Approval depends on the applicant’s credit history and overall financial situation. Those with good to excellent credit scores have a higher likelihood of receiving better terms and approval.

Maximizing the United Gateway Card Benefits

To get the most value from the United Gateway Card, cardholders should focus on using the card for purchases that maximize mileage accumulation. Since it offers double miles on United Airlines transactions, gas stations, and transit expenses.

Additionally, keeping track of spending to meet the welcome bonus requirement is essential. Since 30,000 bonus miles are available after spending 1,000 dollars in the first 90 days, planning major purchases in this timeframe can accelerate rewards.

For those who travel frequently, redeeming miles efficiently is crucial. Booking flights well in advance and taking advantage of partner airlines can help maximize the value of accumulated miles.

Another strategy is combining this card with another rewards card that provides higher earnings on categories like dining or groceries. This approach ensures that cardholders are always maximizing their rewards on all types of spending.

Final Considerations

The United Gateway Card is an excellent choice for travelers who want to earn miles without paying an annual fee. Its ability to accumulate miles on everyday purchases, combined with travel benefits, makes it a solid option for those who fly with United Airlines.

However, it may not be the best fit for those looking for general cashback rewards or broader travel perks. Since it lacks features like free checked baggage or priority boarding, frequent United travelers may find better value in premium travel cards.

For those looking for a no-fee travel rewards card with strong earning potential, the United Gateway Card is a great option. With proper use and strategic spending, it offers valuable rewards and savings for both occasional and frequent travelers.