If you frequently travel with Delta, you might be contemplating the adoption of a Delta co-branded credit card.
Tailored for individuals devoted to the Delta brand, these cards offer a range of rewards, perks, and additional benefits.
In this article, we'll explore the top credit card options for Delta enthusiasts, assisting you in discovering the most suitable choice for your needs.
Best Delta Co-Branded Credit Cards
Now we’ve covered the basics of how to choose a credit card, we’ll delve into the options for Delta co-branded credit cards.
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
TheDelta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, as the name suggests, is a decent airline rewards card that will appeal most to people who frequently fly with Delta. A neat welcome bonus, potential annual rewards, an ongoing miles rewards system, priority boarding, and the opportunity to pay with earned miles when you fly Delta are some reasons you may want to consider this card. If you fly Delta, this card probably ticks many of the right boxes. Terms Apply.
The miles earned through regular purchases with this card are modest for the most part, but if you make in-flight purchases, you get up to 20% back in form of statement credits. The rewards on this card are laser-targeted towards a specific audience. Therefore, it goes without saying that if you don’t fly often or don’t patronize Delta much, there is little to enjoy from this card. You probably won’t even earn enough rewards to offset the annual fee.
- APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
- Annual fee: $150, $0 intro first year
- Balance Transfer Fee: N/A
- Foreign Transaction Fee: $0
- Rewards Plan: 2X miles on delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide (including take-out and delivery in the U.S) and at U.S. supermarkets, and 1x miles on all other eligible purchases (Terms Apply)
- Welcome bonus: 40,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: N/A
- Welcome Bonus (Terms Apply)
- Attractive rewards for Delta flyers
- No Foreign Transaction Fees
- Free Checked Bag
- Priority Boarding
- Annual Fee
- Limited Acceptance
- No Path to Elite Status
- Niche Card
Is there a mileage limit?
The Skymiles Gold Card allows you to earn unlimited rewards, so you don’t need to worry about timing your purchases towards the end of the year, so you don’t exceed a rewards cap. In fact, it encourages you to accumulate more rewards with additional perks.
What Are the Card Income Requirements?
As with most credit cards, American Express will rely on your credit score as a major factor when deciding your approval status. The SkyMiles Gold requires a good to excellent credit score, which will only be feasible if you have a fairly low debt to income ratio. However, Amex may use your income to determine your credit limit if you are approved.
Can I Redeem for Flights with Airline Partners?
Delta has a list of airline partners where you can use your SkyMiles to book flights. There are over twenty airline partners, including Virgin America, KLM, and Hawaiian Airlines. However, keep in mind that transferring miles to another program may result in a fee, and you may not be able to access the best redemption rates.
Can I get Car Rental Insurance?
The SkyMiles Gold offers car rental insurance. When you decline the rental counter collision waiver coverage, and pay for the rental with your card, you’ll have theft and damage protection in most territories. Please review the terms and conditions before to make sure you're covered.
Do the Miles Expire?
You don’t need to worry about miles or points expiring. However, if you’re considering closing your account – it may expire , so you will need to think about your miles before you finalize the account closure.
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
Reward details
Current Offer
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card is best for dedicated Delta loyalists who value lounge access, elite status benefits, and Delta-specific perks. Cardholders can earn 3X miles per dollar on eligible Delta flights and Delta Vacations® with 1X miles on all other purchases.
Benefits of the card include complimentary Delta Sky Club access on same-day Delta flights, two one-time Sky Club guest passes, and access to American Express Centurion Lounges when flying Delta. The card also provides an annual companion certificate for eligible round-trip flights, offering value for those who frequently travel within the U.S.
The hefty annual fee should be weighed against the card's benefits, making it essential for frequent Delta travelers to assess their travel patterns and preferences before deciding if the card is the right fit for them.
- Rewards Plan: 3X miles per dollar on eligible Delta flights and Delta Vacations® with 1X miles on all other purchases
- APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
- Annual fee: $650
- Balance Transfer Fee: N/A
- Foreign Transaction Fee: $0
- Welcome Bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months
- 0% APR Introductory Rate: N/A
- First Class, Comfort+® or Main Cabin
- Free Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
- Upgrades
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
- Trip Delay Insurance
- Medallion Status Boost
- The Centurion® Lounge
- Free First Checked Bag
- Car Rental Damage and Loss Insurance
- $650 Annual Fee
- Rewards Rate Could Be Better
Can I Get Preapproved?
American Express does allow you to see if you can pre qualify for the Delta SkyMiles Reserve in just 30 seconds on the official website.
What is the Initial Credit Limit?
There is no stated initial credit limit for the Delta SkyMiles Reserve, but there are reports that it can be quite high.
How Much is 10,000 Miles worth?
American Express has a typical average redemption for their miles of about 2 cents per mile. However, this depends on your redemption method, as it can be as low as 1 cent per mile.
When you should Move to the Delta Reserve card?
If you’re a frequent traveler with Delta, the Delta SkyMiles Reserve respectively are a good option. You can get decent rewards, but after the initial introductory period, you may find there are more attractive Delta reward cards available.
Does the Card Insurance Cover Flight Cancellation?
Yes, the card offers trip cancellation/interruption insurance, which provides reimbursement if your trip is delayed or canceled due to a covered incident.
What's the top reason to skip the Delta Reserve?
Although these it's a travel travel cards, if you are looking for cards that offer both travel and other purchase rewards, there are better options on the market. These cards are really only the best option for frequent flyers with the respective airlines.
Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card
Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
This is the base Delta co-branded card that has no annual fee, but it does still offer some good Delta perks. The reward structure is two tiered weighted towards Delta and dining purchases. You can enjoy savings on Delta in flight purchases, Pay with Miles, car rental coverage and access to the Global Assist Hotline.
These perks and the lack of an annual fee makes this card a good choice for those who don’t fly regularly but want to accumulate miles for a special trip or annual vacation. Here's a comparison of the Skymiles Blue card and the Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard.
- Rewards Plan: 2X miles for every dollar spent at restaurants worldwide and Delta purchases and 1X miles for every dollar spent on other eligible purchases
- APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
- Annual fee: $0
- Balance Transfer Fee: N/A
- Foreign Transaction Fee: $0
- Welcome bonus: 10,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months
- 0% APR Introductory Rate: N/A
- No Annual Fee
- Additional Cardholder Perks
- Foreign Transaction Fee Waiver
- Limited Rewards Categories
- Low Welcome Offer
- Better Options With General Travel Cards
Is this card recommended for non-Delta loyalists or infrequent flyers?
For general travelers or infrequent flyers, other travel cards with broader perks and higher welcome offers may be more suitable than the Delta SkyMiles Blue card.
Does the card offer any introductory APR on purchases or balance transfers?
No, the Delta SkyMiles Blue card does not provide an introductory APR on purchases or balance transfers.
Can I redeem Delta SkyMiles for things other than Delta purchases?
Yes, besides Delta purchases, you can redeem SkyMiles for other travel expenses, merchandise, and various redemption options.
Are there foreign transaction fees when using this card internationally?
No, there are no foreign transaction fees associated with the Delta SkyMiles Blue American Express Card.
What perks come with the Delta SkyMiles Blue card besides rewards?
Cardholder perks include a 20% discount on eligible in-flight purchases, American Express Experiences, Pay with Miles, Extended Warranty and Purchase Protection.
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
Reward details
3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels, 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets and 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is a premium airline credit card catering to frequent Delta flyers. While it comes with a $350 annual fee, the card offers substantial perks for Delta enthusiasts. Cardholders earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels, 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets and 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases
Key benefits include a free checked bag on Delta flights for the cardholder and up to eight companions, priority boarding, statement credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck enrollment, an annual companion certificate after the first card member anniversary, and no foreign transaction fees.
However, prospective cardholders should carefully weigh the annual fee against the offered perks and assess their travel habits to determine if the card aligns with their needs and preferences.
- Rewards Plan: 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels, 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets and 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases
- APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
- Annual fee: $350
- Balance Transfer Fee: N/A
- Foreign Transaction Fee: $0
- Welcome bonus: 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in your first six months
- 0% APR Introductory Rate: N/A
- Airline Benefits
- Annual Companion Certificate
- Travel and Purchase Protections
- Earn MQDs to boost elite status
- No Delta Sky Club Access Discount
- Uncertain Award Redemption Value
- High Annual Fee
Are there restrictions on using the annual companion certificate?
The annual companion certificate is valid for round-trip, main cabin domestic travel in specific fare classes, excluding basic economy tickets.
Are Delta SkyMiles transferable to other airline programs?
Delta SkyMiles are not easily transferable to other airline programs, and their value may vary compared to other transferable points.
Can the companion certificate be used for any Delta flight?
The companion certificate is valid for round-trip, main cabin domestic travel but is subject to certain fare class restrictions.
How can the earned Delta SkyMiles be redeemed?
Delta SkyMiles can be redeemed for flights with Delta and its partner airlines, as well as for various other travel-related purchases.
Can the first checked bag benefit be extended to companions on separate reservations?
The first checked bag benefit applies to the cardholder and up to eight companions on the same reservation.
Is there a Delta Sky Club access discount?
No, the Delta Sky Club access discount has been discontinued as of January 1, 2024.
What travel protections are offered by the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Card?
Cardholders receive trip delay coverage, car rental damage coverage, and lost baggage coverage, among other travel protections.
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Delta Vs. General Travel Credit Card
Many people struggle to appreciate the difference between Delta credit cards and general travel cards. However, the distinction is very simple.
Although both cards are designed for those who travel and want travel rewards and benefits, general travel cards are not tied to one carrier. This does mean that you may miss out on airline-specific perks, but the rewards may be better for you if you’re not a Delta loyalist.
Delta Credit Cards Pros & Cons
There is no easy answer to this question as it depends on the value that you ascribe to the card. If you typically fly with Delta or you have a Delta hub in a nearby city, you are likely to get the most benefit from this type of card.
On the other hand, if you tend to search for the best flight deals regardless of the airline or carrier, a general travel credit card may be better for you.
To understand this a little better, we’ll explore the pros and cons of Delta credit cards.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Airline Specific Benefits |
Airline Specific Benefits |
Loyalty Program Boost | Rewards for General Spending |
Enhanced Rewards | Limited Redemption Options |
- Airline Specific Benefits
The most obvious advantage of a Delta credit card is that you can enjoy Delta specific benefits.
This can include perks such as priority boarding, priority screening, free checked bags and discounts for in flight food, drinks and services.
- Loyalty Program Boost
If you’re a member of the Delta SkyMiles loyalty program, having a Delta co-branded credit card can be a great way to boost not only your miles balance but also your elite status.
Having a card could make the difference between achieving a base tier or a higher tier, with even more perks.
- Enhanced Rewards
Another advantage of a Delta credit card is that you can receive a higher tier of rewards.
While you may be able to earn miles for everyday purchases, you are likely to get more miles when you make Delta purchases compared to the rewards you would get with a general card.
- Airline Specific Benefits
This is both a pro and a con depending on your travel habits. If you’re not flying Delta, you are not likely to get many benefits.
- Rewards for General Spending
Typically, you’ll not get many miles for general spending, which means that you may not want to use a Delta card as your everyday credit card.
- Limited Redemption Options
While the top travel credit cards typically offer the greatest redemption value when you use your points or miles for travel, they often offer alternatives.
However, with a Delta credit card, you are likely to have very limited alternatives to using your miles for travel and travel related purchases.
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How to Compare a Credit Card for Delta Flyers
In addition to the Delta co-branded cards, there are other general travel credit cards that could benefit you. So, it is important that you compare all the options to decide which one is best for you.
Fortunately, this can be quite straightforward if you know the factors to consider.
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The Annual Fee
The first thing that you need to look at is the annual fee that applies to the card. Generally, the higher the annual fee, the greater the perks, but you need to be comfortable paying the card’s annual fee.
You’ll need to think about whether you’ll use all the card benefits and easily offset the annual fee. If you’re not confident that you’ll manage this, you should look at cards with more modest fees.
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The Benefits Package
This follows on from the previous point, but you need to be realistic about the card benefits that you will use and what has no value for you.
For example, if you travel light and rarely check bags, getting free checked bags will not be important to you. However, if you want to ensure that you have plenty of room in the overhead bins for your bag, priority boarding is a good perk for you.
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The Rewards Structure
As we touched on earlier, travel credit cards are typically biased towards travel for earning rewards, but some cards do offer the potential to earn rewards on your everyday purchases.
If you’re not a regular traveler, but want to accumulate travel rewards, you need to pick a card that will allow you to earn miles or points on groceries, gas, dining and other everyday purchases.
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The Redemption Options
If you’re happy to spend all of your rewards on your future travel, you will be spoilt for choice in your credit card options.
On the other hand, if you want more flexible redemption options, you will need to check the card details very carefully.
When You May Want to Skip a Delta Credit Card?
Of course, there are also some circumstances when a Delta credit card may not be a good fit for you. These include:
- You are not Delta loyal: If you are not particularly bothered which airline operates your flights, you are likely to get better benefits with a general travel credit card. While you may benefit from the Delta perks if it is operating your flight, the rewards weighted towards Delta are likely to limit how many miles or points you can earn.
- You don’t have good credit: Unfortunately, you need to have good to excellent credit to qualify for most American Express cards, including Delta. So, if your credit is less than ideal, you may be better looking at a more basic travel credit card and working towards a Delta card in the future.
When is a Delta Credit Card a Good Idea?
A Delta co-branded credit card is a good idea in a number of circumstances such as:
- You live near a Delta hub: If you have a Delta hub in a nearby city, the chances are that you’ll be using a Delta operated flight any time you fly, which means that you can earn rewards and enjoy the airline specific perks.
- You’re brand loyal to Delta: If you enjoy flying Delta and always look for a Delta operated flight each time you travel, a co-branded Delta credit card is a natural choice for you. You’ll enhance your flying experience with your Delta card perks.
- You want an elite status boost: If you’re already an elite status member or are looking to achieve elite Delta status, a co-branded credit card can be a great way to boost your qualification status.
How to Get a Credit Card for Delta Flyers?
If you want a Delta co-branded credit card, you can apply via the Delta website or by visiting the partner brand American Express.
- Find the Appropriate Product Page: As we’ll discuss in a few moments, there are several Delta co-branded credit cards, so you’ll need to find the product page for the appropriate card on the American Express or Delta website. You can read through the information and if you’re happy to proceed, click on “Apply.”
- Complete the Application: After you click on “Apply” you’ll be directed to an application form, which you’ll need to complete. This will require filling in all the mandatory fields including your name, contact information, Social Security Number, income details and some other financial data.
- Submit Your Application: After you click “Submit,” the American Express team will assess your application and will provide an approval decision. You’ll be notified if your application has been approved and successful applicants can expect to receive their card in approximately 7 to 10 days.
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How to Check If You Are Eligible for a Delta Card
Fortunately, American Express has a pre qualification feature on its website which can allow you to check if you’re eligible for Delta SkyMiles cards. The process is quite simple as you just need to submit a basic application. You’ll find the pre-qualify button on the credit card product page and this will direct you to the basic application.
The great thing about this feature is that it will not impact your credit to check if you’re eligible. This is because the process only involves a soft credit pull. This allows American Express to assess your eligibility without the search appearing on your credit report. Amex will only initiate a hard credit pull if you decide to proceed with a full application.
How We Picked the Best Delta Cards
We assessed a number of credit cards for Delta flyers, with the most obvious choices being Delta co-branded cards. However, there are other card options which may appeal to you. We prioritized Delta specific perks to determine the best cards, but these may or not have value for you.
We also assessed the annual fees charged by the card issuer. Obviously, there is a balance between the annual fee and the card benefits and we feel that the Delta SkyMiles credit card line manages this balance well.
Even the top of the line card provides a collection of excellent benefits including complimentary lounge access, which should easily offset the cost of the fee if you’re a regular or frequent flyer.
FAQs
Which credit cards transfer points to Delta Airlines?
Delta only has one credit card transfer partner; American Express Membership Rewards.
How do you add a credit card to the Delta app?
Log into the Delta app and then from your My Delta screen, you’ll need to select “My Wallet” and “Stored Payment Methods”. From this tab, you can add another payment and enter your credit card information.
Do Delta credit card miles count towards status?
Your Delta credit card can provide MDQs or MDMs which can help you to achieve Delta elite status.
How do you Activate a Delta Airlines Credit Card?
You can call the number on the sticker attached to your new card or the Amex helpline to activate your new card. You’ll need to verify your personal details with your card number and personal information such as your Social Security Number to activate your card.
How Many Delta Airline Miles Do You Need for a Free Flight?
This depends on the flight. You can compare the Miles cost for various flights on the Delta website.
Can I use Delta miles to pay my credit card?
You cannot redeem Delta miles for statement credit on your credit card bill.
Does the Delta credit card have foreign transaction fees?
No, Delta co-branded credit cards do not impose foreign transaction fees.
Does a Delta credit card pay for Global Entry?
Yes, the Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Reserve cards offer reimbursement for your Global Entry application fees if you use your card to pay for them.
How do you cancel a Delta credit card?
You will need to call the Amex helpline to cancel your Delta SkyMiles card and the representative can guide you through the cancelation process.
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Related Posts
How We Picked The Best Delta Credit Cards: Methodology
To identify the best Delta credit cards, our team researched various cards, focusing on Delta. We rated these cards based on two key categories tailored for consumers seeking Delta rewards:
Delta Rewards & Benefits (50%): We evaluate the rewards program specific to Delta, including miles earned per dollar spent on Delta purchases, bonus categories for accelerated rewards, and redemption options such as free flights, upgrades, or lounge access. Cards offering generous rewards rates, versatile redemption choices, and valuable benefits like companion passes or priority boarding score higher in this category.
Card Features & Offers (50%): This category assesses additional features that enhance the overall value of the card for Delta travelers, such as annual or foreign transaction fees , free checked bags, priority check-in, and discounts on in-flight purchases. Cards offering a comprehensive range of benefits without excessive fees earn higher scores.
This comprehensive evaluation ensures that the best ADelta credit cards offer valuable rewards, benefits, and a seamless user experience for consumers seeking to maximize their travel with Delta.
Review Airline Credit Cards
United Explorer
American Airlines AAdvantage MileUp
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus
Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express
United Club Infinite
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express
JetBlue Plus
United Explorer
AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard
Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Mastercard
Delta SkyMiles Blue American Express
United Quest
