Unpacking and repacking your stuff to pass through airport security check is disquieting. I almost missed my flight from LA to Texas last year because of the long cue at the TSA. There, I spotted a shorter line, which cleared faster because they were pre-checked!
I investigated and got pre-checked after that. Does Chase credit card pay for TSA PreCheck? Look at the results to find out.
Does Chase Credit Card Pay For TSA PreCheck?
Yes, Chase credit cards pay for TSA PreCheck. Six Chase cards offer up to $100 statement credit every four years. Since TSA PreCheck is eligible for five years and costs $78, you can easily waive it.
You should get a TSA PreCheck even if you fly once or twice a year, let alone multiple times annually. Getting a card with PreCheck reimbursement includes added travel benefits because this offer is usually associated with travel cards. Although you must pay an annual fee for most such cards, the perks are worth it.
Contrarily, you can find a non-travel card with no annual fee that pays for TSA PreCheck. However, those cards have their own strict set of high-fee structures that can drain your assets.
Benefits of Getting a TSA PreCheck
TSA has set up this facility to better the travelers’ experience at the airports. You can get it even if you do not have a US passport yet.
Skipping the Line
You get through security screening way quicker than the regular lines. You can enjoy the airport lounge luxury more without standing in line for hours.
It is particularly advantageous for families with young ones who can easily get cranky due to long waiting cues.
Less Hassle
You don’t have to take these items out of their places if you have a TSA PreCheck:
- Belts
- Shoes
- Jackets
- Laptops from their sleeves
- Up to 3.4 ounces of liquids
You can save time and panic-mongering by avoiding unpacking and repacking everything while trying to reach your gate in time.
Ease of Access
You can skip the line at more than 200 airports in the US and board your plane with a relatively zen mind. Over 90 airlines accept it, so you will surely get easy access domestically.
You can consider getting Global Entry for international travel. TSA PreCheck is included in that category.
Risks of Getting a TSA PreCheck
You can encounter a few disadvantages even with this service. The promise of easy access and a hassle-free security check may be more relaxed than you assume.
Fully Booked Appointment Slots
You may find the quickest appointment slot a year later! With the increasing awareness among travelers, the number of TSA PreCheck buyers is soaring. Fully booked interview slots are just one issue.
Everyone Is Using It
The second problem arises at the actual PreCheck line. You can find yourself standing at the end of a very long line.
Sometimes, the PreCheck line is longer than the regular security check cues. Even if you pass through within 10 minutes, you might still be among the last to reach your flight gate.
It Is Not Everywhere
You can avail of this facility at only 200 – 300 out of 5,211 airports in the US. Also, only some domestic and international airlines support it. You will have to go through regular security checks for Aer Lingus and China Southern, to name a few.
Application Process
The procedure to receive a TSA PreCheck is simple:
- You must fill out and submit a form at TSA.gov to initiate your application process.
- You will have to pay the $78 fee to complete the submission.
- You will get a one-on-one interview date, time, and venue.
- You will have a 10-minute slot for an interview. You will give your fingerprints there and agree to a background check.
- You will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) if approved.
Chase Cards That Reimburse the PreCheck Fee
Chase opened this service for only six travel cards because it is still a new concept for a large population. All these cards incur an annual fee. However, you get more than just the PreCheck reimbursement. You get generous travel rewards and insurance plans with these options.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve: You get a $300 annual travel credit and 10x points back on travel purchases against a $550 annual fee.
- Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Card: For a $199 annual fee, you get free upgrades and up to 9,000 yearly bonus points.
- United Explorer Card: You get a 50% discount on in-flight purchases and priority boarding on United Airlines for a $95 annual fee.
- United Club Infinite: You get free checked bags, lounge membership, and 25% statement credit for a $525 annual fee.
- United Quest Card: You get a $125 statement credit and two 5,000-mile anniversary flight credits for a $250 annual fee.
- Chase Aeroplan Card: You get up to 100,000 bonus points for travel purchases at Air Canada with a $95 annual fee.
Related Questions
How Do I Get Reimbursed for TSA PreCheck Chase?
You get reimbursed for TSA PreCheck through Chase credit card through statement credit. You get up to $100 credit every four years after you pay for the PreCheck.
Does Chase Southwest Pay for TSA PreCheck?
Yes, Chase Southwest pays for TSA PreCheck. You must pay a PreCheck fee through the Southwest card. You will get up to $100 statement credit every four years that you can use to offset the PreCheck fee.
How Long Does It Take to Get TSA PreCheck Approved?
It takes three to five days to get TSA PreCheck approved. However, you may get your Known Traveler Number (KTN) within 60 days. You can get status updates on your application by text or email.
Conclusion
You can choose a Chase card from the six travel cards that reimburse TSA PreCheck. You get up to a $100 statement credit every four years after paying for it through your selected Chase card. You can relax a bit more at the airport due to this facility. Moreover, you don’t have to take off your shoes and jackets.