United Airlines has launched a new MileagePlus Debit Rewards Card that allows customers to earn miles through both spending and saving, expanding the airline’s loyalty program beyond traditional credit cards. The new Visa debit card, powered by Galileo Financial Technologies, part of SoFi’s platform, offers MileagePlus members additional ways to accumulate miles on everyday purchases.
As part of its limited-time launch offer, new cardholders can earn a 10,000-mile bonus after approval and qualifying purchases. The card earns one mile per dollar spent on United purchases, including flights, baggage, and onboard items, and one mile per two dollars spent on other eligible purchases. The product is designed to appeal to customers who prefer debit spending but still want access to travel rewards and benefits.
Expanding United’s loyalty ecosystem
The new debit card is part of United’s broader effort to strengthen and diversify its MileagePlus loyalty program, which was recently named the world’s best airline loyalty program. According to United, the introduction of a debit-based rewards option provides more flexibility for members seeking to earn miles without opening or using a credit card. Miles earned through the card do not expire and can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, or combined with other members’ miles under United’s pooling feature.
“We’re constantly looking for new ways to add value and optionality for our members, and a debit card is a natural next step,” said Bob Daly, United’s Managing Director of Global Co-Brand Cards. “The United MileagePlus Debit Rewards Card offers customers an additional way to earn miles whether they’re spending on United flights and everyday purchases or saving and making plans for the future.”
The card, issued by Sunrise Banks, N.A., is backed by Visa and comes with FDIC insurance coverage of up to $250,000 through the issuing bank. Monthly maintenance fees are waived for accounts with an average daily balance of at least $2,000, while lower balances incur a $4 monthly fee. Members can also unlock up to 2,500 annual bonus miles after spending $10,000 within a calendar year.
Rewards tied to balances and spending
Cardholders can earn additional miles based on their account balances, creating a dual incentive to spend and save. Annualized bonus miles start at 2,500 for balances above $2,500 and scale up to 70,000 miles per year for balances exceeding $50,000. United says the card integrates easily with the MileagePlus ecosystem, allowing users to track their rewards and manage their spending through digital tools and built-in card controls.
Bill Kennedy, Interim CEO and CFO of Galileo Financial Technologies, said the collaboration reflects how technology platforms can accelerate loyalty innovation. “It’s a great example of how leading brands can use Galileo’s modern platform to move quickly, meet customer demand, and create differentiated loyalty experiences,” said Kennedy.
United said the debit card does not require a credit check, meaning applicants can apply without affecting their credit score. The move is aimed at broadening access to MileagePlus earning opportunities and attracting travelers who prefer debit payments or who may not qualify for traditional co-branded credit cards.
The launch underscores United’s strategy to integrate its loyalty offerings across different financial tools and travel products. The card supports United’s position as one of the world’s largest airlines by available seat miles and aligns with the company’s ongoing investment in customer engagement through digital innovation and financial partnerships.
United MileagePlus remains free to join and offers members benefits including no blackout dates, the ability to purchase tickets with miles or a mix of miles and cash, and no change fees on award tickets. More information about the new debit card and its terms is available at UnitedDebitRewards.com.
