Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees
Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Get Prechecked for Free
Getting TSA PreCheck can make airport security a breeze, allowing you to skip long lines and leave your shoes and light jacket on. Even better, many premium travel credit cards will reimburse your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee every 4-5 years. That means you can get expedited screening for free just by holding the right card.
I applied for TSA PreCheck a few years back and it was a game changer. I went from waiting 30+ minutes in the normal security line to breezing through in under 5 minutes. Not having to remove shoes, jackets, laptops, liquids, etc. saves a ton of time and hassle.
The $85 application fee (for a 5 year membership) was easily covered by my Chase Sapphire Reserve, which offers a credit for either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry every 4 years. Other premium travel cards like the Platinum Card from American Express, the United Club Infinite Card, and the Capital One Venture X also reimburse these fees.
Even better, many banks will reimburse the fee if you already have PreCheck and just need to renew it. I recently renewed mine and Chase reimbursed the $85 renewal fee automatically within a week. It doesn't get easier than that!
The Global Entry credit can also be used towards TSA PreCheck. While Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, it also lets you speed through customs when entering the US. The $100 application fee is reimbursed the same as PreCheck.
Just make sure your card offers the application fee credit before paying out of pocket. Also be aware that some banks like Chase may only reimburse the fee for the primary cardholder, not authorized users. Check the terms to be sure.
One tip is to add your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to hotel and car rental loyalty accounts. Many major chains will automatically include your TSA PreCheck number when making reservations, meaning you can get expedited screening even on flights not booked with the card.
TSA PreCheck is valid at over 200 airports and with over 60 airlines, so chances are you'll breeze through security no matter where or how you book. And if your flight is out of a smaller airport without PreCheck lanes, you can still use the dedicated security line.
What else is in this post?
- Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Get Prechecked for Free
- Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Say Goodbye to Long Security Lines
- Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Skip Straight to the X-Ray Machines
- Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - No More Taking Off Your Shoes and Jacket
- Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Breeze Through Customs with Global Entry
- Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Luxury Cards Cover Your Application Fees
- Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Check If You Already Qualify for Fee Credits
- Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Maximize Your Travel Card Benefits
Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Say Goodbye to Long Security Lines
Standing in endless TSA lines at the airport is one of the biggest hassles of traveling. You shuffle along at a snail's pace, gradually making your way closer to the metal detectors and x-ray machines. It seems like no matter how early you get to the terminal, you're bound to get stuck behind slowpokes who hold up the whole process. But with TSA PreCheck, those frustratingly long security lines can become a thing of the past.
TSA PreCheck gives travelers access to expedited screening lanes which are often much faster. According to the TSA's own data, PreCheck passengers waited an average of just 5 minutes at security compared to 19 minutes for standard travelers. That's over 3x faster!
When using the PreCheck lanes, you won't have to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, jackets and light outerwear. This speeds things up tremendously compared to the normal drill of unpacking all your belongings into bins. PreCheck travelers can also leave their toiletries and food items sealed up in their carry-on bags - no need to pull out the quart size plastic baggie of travel-sized liquids.
Jill from New Jersey raves about how PreCheck simplifies flying with kids: "It used to be such a production getting the whole family through security with all the strollers, bags, snacks and so on. Now the kids don't even have to take off their shoes or jackets. We just load their backpacks straight into the bin and head on through!"
PreCheck members can use dedicated screening lanes at over 200 airports across the U.S. as well as with major international airlines like Lufthansa, Air France and ANA. So whether you're flying domestic or overseas, TSA PreCheck can expedite the process. At many mid-size airports, it moves flyers through security in just a few minutes compared to 30+ minutes in the regular line.
Chris, who frequently travels for work out of Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport says: "I used to always allow at least 45 minutes to get through security if I had an early morning flight. Now with PreCheck, I breeze through in under 10 minutes. It lets me maximize my sleep and not have to get up at some ungodly early hour just to accommodate the security wait."
Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Skip Straight to the X-Ray Machines
One of the best parts of having TSA PreCheck is getting to skip the long queue and head straight to the X-ray machines. This allows you to avoid the painfully slow shuffle toward the front as travelers ahead unload their carry-ons piece by piece. With PreCheck, you get to bypass the frazzled families, solo travelers scrambling at the last minute, and anyone else bogging down the standard screening process.
Jenny from Austin loves the ability to zoom right up to the front: “Before PreCheck, I’d arrive super early to the airport knowing it could take 30 minutes or more just to get through the security line. Now I quickly hop into the fast lane and am at my gate with time to spare!”
Being able to go directly to the X-ray machines means no more standing around bored out of your mind as the line creeps forward. Instead, PreCheck members can spend that time relaxing in the lounge, grabbing a coffee, or squeezing in a little extra work.
Jeffrey, a business traveler out of PDX says: “The hour I used to waste in the standard security line I can now spend catching up on emails or taking an important call. It’s allowed me to maximize my airport productivity.”
At some airports, the TSA PreCheck lane has you whipped through the metal detector and X-ray machine almost faster than you can blink. It’s a night and day difference from regular screening.
One mom explains: “My twins need to run around before a flight, so getting through security quickly is a must. With PreCheck, we put our bags on the belt and in just a few minutes we’re on the other side with the kids ready to burn off energy before boarding.”
Using the expedited lane, gone are the days of struggling to unload overstuffed carry-ons at the last minute as the people behind you sigh loudly. PreCheck members can leave shoes and jackets on and laptops stowed in their bags for a smoother process.
James from Denver describes his experience: “I travel with a lot of camera gear which used to mean I’d annoy everyone by holding up the line to remove it all. Now I get to be that guy who struts past and goes straight to the front. Total game changer!”
Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - No More Taking Off Your Shoes and Jacket
One of the most loathed aspects of standard airport screening is having to remove shoes and jackets. Travelers must engage in the tedious ritual of unlacing, removing, then placing footwear in bins to go through the X-ray machine. Same goes for taking off belts, watches, light outer layers and anything else that could set off the metal detector. It’s a hassle that slows down the whole process as people fumble with their belongings while holding up the line. With TSA PreCheck, however, you get to keep your shoes and jacket on as you breeze through the expedited lane.
Frequent business traveler Gary from Houston explains how PreCheck simplifies his airport routine: “Not needing to take off my shoes and suit jacket saves me time and lets me maintain a professional appearance on the other side. I don’t have to waste time re-lacing Oxfords or buttoning my jacket back up.”
For leisure travelers, not removing footwear means increased comfort and convenience through the screening process. As Lily from Phoenix describes, “I used to suffer through security barefoot each time which was unpleasant when the floor was dirty or cold. Now I don’t have to expose my feet or socks to the germ-filled bins!”
Parents can also avoid the headache of taking off kids’ shoes which often results in a frustrating ordeal. (Have you ever tried to get a squirming toddler to stand still long enough to remove their tiny Velcro sneakers?) With PreCheck, the whole family can breeze through without this nuisance that slows everything down.
People who wear items for medical reasons are also freed from the burden of removing them at standard screening. Travelers with prosthetic devices, casts, braces or other wearables often must endure an embarrassing public ordeal when required to take these off to pass through security.
Sonia from Denver has a prosthetic leg and says PreCheck improved her airport experience: “I used to have to remove my prosthesis which was uncomfortable, time consuming and undignified. Now I can make it through security like any other traveler without calling attention to my disability.”
Micah from Minneapolis explains: "During winter months, I'd often have to shed several heavy layers before security which left me freezing. Now I stay bundled up until I reach the gate."
Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Breeze Through Customs with Global Entry
Returning to the United States after an international trip used to mean waiting in agonizingly long customs lines that snaked through the airport. It could easily take over an hour just to clear passport control, even on a good day. But Global Entry has been an absolute game changer, allowing pre-approved travelers to bypass the messy queues and speed through customs in minutes.
The difference is like night and day. While non-members shuffle along at a snail's pace, Global Entry holders stride right up to the automated kiosks, scan their passports, answer a few quick questions and get issued a receipt that lets them exit. It turns an hour-long ordeal into one that's over in 5 minutes flat.
Frequent traveler Danielle raves: "I used to stand around bored out of my skull in the customs line each time I returned from a trip abroad. Now I validate my passport at the kiosk and I'm on my way. It lets me get home from the airport so much faster."
Global Entry also makes life easier for families traveling with kids. Trying to keep the little ones calm and occupied during an extensive wait can be challenging. With Global Entry, parents simply scan everyone's passports at the kiosk and they are on their way, no long waits required.
Melanie from Brooklyn explains: "Before Global Entry, I dreaded going through customs with my twins in tow. Waiting 60+ minutes with two toddlers was painful. Now we use the fast lane kiosks and are out the door in no time, which is a lifesaver when the kids are antsy and tired."
Besides saving time, Global Entry also lets you skip interacting with a customs officer entirely in most cases. For those made anxious by facing questions from intimidating CBP officials, it provides a welcome alternative.
Sam from Columbus, OH says: "I always get super nervous speaking with customs agents and feel like I'm being interrogated entering my own country. With Global Entry, 99% of the time I don't have to talk to an agent at all anymore. It's been a huge relief for me."
Global Entry is accepted at over 75 international airports across the U.S. including major hubs like New York JFK, Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago O'Hare (ORD), and Atlanta (ATL). Membership includes access to faster TSA PreCheck screening when flying domestically in addition to the customs perk.
Once approved, Global Entry is valid for 5 years before needing to renew. The $100 application fee is reimbursed by many premium travel credit cards, so savvy jetsetters can enjoy faster re-entry to the U.S. for free by leveraging card perks.
Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Luxury Cards Cover Your Application Fees
Getting TSA PreCheck or Global Entry can make travel much smoother, but the $85-$100 application fee gives some travelers pause. Thankfully, premium travel credit cards from American Express, Chase, Capital One and other issuers offer statement credits to cover these costs every 4-5 years. For jetsetters who hold the right card, expedited airport security and customs is effectively free.
According to Torsten, the Founder and CEO of Mighty Travels, "Leveraging credit card perks for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry is a total no-brainer if you travel frequently. The application fee credit essentially pays for itself many times over by letting you breeze through airport hassles."
The Platinum Card from American Express offers up to a $100 credit every 4.5 years to cover either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry costs. Cardholders simply pay the application fee then call Amex or chat online to request reimbursement. The Capital One Venture X also reimburses TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fees up to $100 every 4 years with few hassles.
Meanwhile, the Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a credit up to $100 every 4 years that can be applied to either PreCheck or Global Entry. Cardholders report quick and easy reimbursements from Chase after paying the TSA enrollment cost out of pocket.
According to Michael S., a Sapphire Reserve holder in Los Angeles, "When I applied for Global Entry recently, Chase reimbursed the $100 fee within days of me requesting it through the online portal. Super convenient perk that pays for itself given how much time Global Entry saves."
The United Club Infinite Card from Chase also credits the $100 Global Entry fee every 4 years, on top of other luxury travel benefits. Even no-annual fee cards like the Capital One VentureOne can offer PreCheck or Global Entry fee waivers as a signup bonus.
However, keep in mind that sometimes only the primary cardholder is eligible for the application fee credit, not authorized users. Check your card's specific terms first before paying for anyone else's PreCheck or Global Entry enrollment.
Jennifer P. from Denver notes: "I was excited to use my Amex Platinum credit to cover Global Entry for my husband too. But unfortunately only my fee was eligible to be reimbursed. Wish we'd realized that beforehand!"
Nevertheless, luxury cardholders who play their perks right can enjoy smoother airport experiences for years to come without paying extra. TSA PreCheck helps speed through domestic security lanes while Global Entry simplifies clearing customs returning to the U.S.
Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Check If You Already Qualify for Fee Credits
Before applying for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, many travelers fail to realize they may already qualify for an application fee waiver. Certain trusted traveler programs like NEXUS allow you to breeze through airport security and customs without paying extra. And some elite status tiers with airlines come with PreCheck or Global Entry benefits that can save you $85-$100.
Marissa from Seattle explains: "I didn't know that when I reached 75k status with Alaska Airlines MVP elite status, I was eligible for a TSA PreCheck fee credit. I had already paid the $85 fee out of pocket when I could have gotten it for free!"
Like Marissa, it's easy for travelers to overlook perks they already have access to with premium cards,frequent flyer status, or other memberships. Be sure to check what travel fee credits may be available before you apply and pay for expedited screening on your own dime.
For instance, NEXUS members can use Global Entry kiosks when re-entering the U.S. from Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean. NEXUS also includes TSA PreCheck, so the $50 application fee gets you accelerated security screening as well as customs fast tracking. Just present your NEXUS card at airport checkpoints.
Some elite frequent flyer tiers also confer PreCheck or Global Entry access as a benefit. United Premier Platinum status and higher gives free Global Entry enrollment. Delta Diamond Medallion fliers get free PreCheck. And American Airlines Executive Platinum members can use PreCheck lanes.
Jeff from Houston shares: "Thanks to my United Premier 1K status, I've had Global Entry for several years now without needing to pay anything extra. Definitely look into what loyalty program benefits you may already be eligible for."
Keep in mind that airline-granted PreCheck eligibility doesn't fully guarantee usage of TSA fast lanes, while actual program membership does. If you frequently fly specific carriers it's worth checking their elite status pages for any PreCheck or Global Entry perks.
Likewise, certain memberships outside of loyalty programs may also provide application fee credits. AAA offers vouchers for free or discounted Global Entry to eligible members. And some travel credit cards provide a Global Entry fee waiver every 4 years even on their no-annual-fee versions.
However, authorized users may not always get these credits, so check the fine print. And if booking flights with multiple passengers, make sure to add frequent flyer numbers to reservations to maximize eligibility for expedited screening.
Speed Through Security: The Top Credit Cards That Reimburse Your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Fees - Maximize Your Travel Card Benefits
Maximizing the benefits of premium travel credit cards is key to getting the most value from their hefty annual fees. Savvy jetsetters use clever strategies to squeeze every last perk out of cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or American Express Platinum. From travel credits to lounge access, points bonuses, and statement credits, using each benefit at its full potential allows your card to pay for itself many times over.
Jeffrey from New York always makes sure to use the full $300 annual travel credit his Chase Sapphire Reserve provides. “I prepay for things like subway passes and NJ Transit tickets which all code as travel transactions with Chase. That way, I rapidly max out the credit each cardmember year for free money towards transit.”
Meanwhile, Andrea in Los Angeles takes full advantage of the American Express Platinum’s monthly Uber credits. She explains “Between Uber rides and UberEats orders, I easily use the full $15 monthly credit which over a year adds up to $180 in savings. It’s an easy benefit to maximize.”
When it comes to lounge access, savvy travelers like Chris from Dallas visit airport lounges as frequently as possible when traveling. Chris says “With the Amex Platinum, I have access to Centurion lounges, Priority Pass lounges, and Delta SkyClubs. I calculate I’ve gotten over $600 in value from free lounge visits this year.”
Business traveler Michael from Chicago makes sure to enroll in as many reward programs as possible to earn extra points and miles. “I link my World of Hyatt, M life, Hertz, Airbnb and Uber accounts to my Chase Sapphire Reserve so I'm earning 3X everywhere. It really adds up over time."
Families can maximize perks on premium cards as well. Jenn from Los Angeles explains “We use the Priority Pass membership from our Chase Sapphire Reserve to visit airport lounges as a family. It makes long layovers with our kids so much easier when we can access free food, drinks and entertainment."
When it comes to premium travel cards, every dollar counts towards justifying the annual fee. Patty from Seattle suggests “I use my Platinum Card from American Express when booking flights through the card’s portal to earn 5X points per dollar on airfare. I also shop via the Amex portal for extra points on purchases with vendors like BestBuy, Boxed, and Chewy."
And don’t let points go to waste if you close an account or switch cards. As Alex from Miami recommends “Before downgrading my Sapphire Reserve, I made sure to transfer my Ultimate Rewards points to United, Hyatt etc so they wouldn’t get trapped. Too many people leave points on the table by not thinking ahead."