What you need before you start

The United Airlines Credit Card process takes about 10 minutes online. You will need your Social Security number, a government-issued ID, your current address, and information about your income and employment. Have your most recent pay stub or tax return handy if you are self-employed.

United offers several versions of this card through different issuers — Chase is the primary partner. The specific card you see depends on which version the bank is currently promoting, but the process process is the same across all of them. You can start the process on United's website or directly through Chase's card portal.

Before you begin, check your credit report for errors. You can get a free report once per year from AnnualCreditReport.com. The card typically requires good to excellent credit, though the exact threshold varies by which version you are explore for.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need your Social Security number, government ID, current address, and income information to complete the process.
  • The process is submitted online and takes about 10 minutes; you usually get a decision within minutes or a few business days.
  • United's credit card is issued by Chase, so you are actually opening a Chase account, not a United account.
  • If you are denied, you can ask Chase why and may be able to reapply after addressing the reason — typically a credit score or recent negative marks.

Where to start the process

Go to United.com and look for the credit card link, usually found in the footer or under "Mileage Plus" (United's frequent flyer program). This takes you to Chase's process portal. Alternatively, you can go directly to Chase.com, search for "United Airlines credit card," and start there.

You will see multiple card options if United is running more than one promotion. Read the benefits on each — sign-up bonuses, annual fees, and earning rates vary. The process itself is the same regardless of which card you choose, so pick the one that matches how you plan to use it.

Once you click "explore Now," you will be asked to log in with a Chase account if you already have one, or to create a new account. Use an email address you check regularly, since Chase will send you updates about your process status there.

Information you will enter during the process

Start with personal details: your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Make sure your name matches your government ID exactly — mismatches can delay approval.

Next, you will enter employment information. List your current employer, job title, and annual income. If you have been at your job less than two years, you may be asked about your previous employer. Self-employed applicants should enter their net business income from their most recent tax return.

You will also answer questions about your housing situation (rent or own), monthly housing payment, and whether you have other credit accounts. Be honest here — Chase verifies income and checks your credit report, so inconsistencies can trigger a manual review or denial.

At the end, you will review the terms and conditions, including the annual fee and privacy policy. Read the annual fee amount carefully — it varies by card version and is charged every year you keep the card open.

What happens after you submit

Most applicants get an when ready decision — you will see "Approved," "Pending," or "Denied" on the screen before you leave the process. If you are approved when ready, your card number appears when ready, and you can use it for online purchases right away. Your physical card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If your process shows "Pending," Chase needs more information. Check your email for a message from Chase within 24 hours — they may ask for proof of income, a copy of your ID, or clarification about something you entered. Respond as quickly as you can, since pending applications usually resolve within a few business days.

If you are denied, the email will include a reason — usually a credit score below their threshold, recent late payments, or too many recent credit inquiries. You can call Chase at the number on the denial letter to ask for details. Some denials can be reconsidered if you provide additional information, but you typically cannot reapply for the same card for at least 30 days.

Using your card once it arrives

When your physical card arrives, call the number on the back to set up it before you use it. You can also set up it through the Chase mobile app or website. Once activated, you can use it anywhere Visa is accepted, not just for United purchases.

Your first statement closes about 25 to 30 days after your first purchase. Make a note of this date so you know when your payment is due — usually 21 days after the statement closes. You can set up automatic payments through your Chase account to avoid missing a due date.

Most United credit cards come with a sign-up bonus — typically a certain number of miles if you spend a set amount within the first few months. Check your welcome materials for the exact terms. These miles post to your United MileagePlus account automatically once you meet the spending requirement.

If your process is denied or you want to reapply

A denial does not hurt your credit permanently, but the hard inquiry Chase made does stay on your report for about a year. If you were denied for a low credit score, focus on paying down existing balances and making all payments on time for at least three to six months before reapplying.

If you were denied for too many recent credit inquiries, wait at least 30 days before explore again. Each new process triggers another hard inquiry, so space them out.

You can also call Chase's reconsideration line at the number on your denial letter. Sometimes they will approve you if you provide additional information, such as proof of income or an explanation of recent credit issues. It is worth a call, especially if you believe the denial was based on incomplete information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore if I do not have a United frequent flyer account yet?

Yes. You do not need a MileagePlus account to explore for the card. Chase will create one for you automatically when your card is approved, and your sign-up bonus miles will post there. You can also create a MileagePlus account on United's website before you explore if you prefer.

What is the annual fee, and can I get it waived?

Annual fees vary by card version and typically range from $0 to $450. Chase charges it every year on your card anniversary. Some versions waive the first year, but most do not. You cannot get the fee waived once you are approved, but you can cancel the card before your anniversary if you decide it is not worth the cost.

How long does approval usually take?

Most applicants get an when ready decision on the screen. If your process goes to "Pending," Chase usually makes a decision within 2 to 5 business days. If they need documents from you, respond as quickly as you can — delays in sending documents can slow the process.

Will explore hurt my credit score?

The process triggers a hard inquiry, which typically lowers your score by a few points temporarily. The impact fades over time, especially if you keep your new account open and make on-time payments. Multiple applications within a short period have a larger impact, so space them out if you are explore for several cards.

Can I use the card before my physical card arrives?

Yes. If you are approved when ready, your card number appears on the screen and in your Chase account when ready. You can use it for online purchases, phone orders, or add it to a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay. You cannot use it in stores until your physical card arrives and you set up it.