United Airlines has broadened its loyalty ecosystem with the launch of the MileagePlus Debit Rewards Card, a Visa debit card that offers members ways to earn airline miles through both everyday purchases and savings account balances.
The card, powered by Galileo’s fintech platform and issued by Sunrise Banks, targets customers who prefer debit cards over traditional co-branded credit cards and opens the airline’s MileagePlus program to a broader audience.
How the Card Works and What It Offers
Under the new program, cardholders earn one MileagePlus mile per dollar spent on United purchases – such as flights, checked bags, onboard snacks and other branded services – and one mile per two dollars spent on all other eligible purchases. For a limited time, new members can earn a 10,000‐mile bonus after opening the account and spending at least $500 within the first four months.
In addition to spending rewards, the debit card introduces savings-linked mileage bonuses: account holders can receive up to 70,000 miles annually based on their average daily balance.
For example, balances between $10,000 and $24,999 trigger 15,000 bonus miles, while $50,000 or more earns 70,000 miles per year. The monthly fee is waived if the account maintains an average daily balance of $2,000 or more, otherwise a $4 monthly fee applies.
The product does not require a credit check, making it accessible to a segment of consumers who may prefer or need a debit option rather than a credit card. Card controls allow locking/unlocking the card and setting spending limits.
According to United, the move marks a strategic expansion of its loyalty offering, designed “to add value and optionality for our members,” especially those who may not hold or wish to use credit cards.
The card supports seamless integration into the MileagePlus ecosystem: Miles earned do not expire, no blackout dates apply for award travel in many cases, and miles may be pooled with others in joint accounts. United sees this debit product as an entry point for users who spend, save and travel without relying on credit cards.
With this launch, United aims to turn everyday banking into a potential travel-reward mechanism. Its messaging emphasizes the idea that account balances and purchases can contribute to flying benefits, not just ticket bookings. The approach aligns with shifting consumer habits – particularly among younger travelers – who increasingly prefer debit over credit.
From a loyalty strategy standpoint, United’s move is significant: Rather than sticking solely to the travel wallet (flights/hotels), the airline is now inserting itself into the everyday financial behaviors of consumers. By building a banking-linked product, it deepens customer engagement and broadens revenue streams beyond traditional ticket sales.
Of course, preference will depend on individual financial behaviour. Travelers accustomed to premium credit-card benefits – such as lounge access, elite status credits or increased miles per dollar on certain spend categories – may find co-branded credit cards more rewarding. But for debit-centric users, the new MileagePlus card offers a compelling alternative to convert routine spending and savings into travel rewards.
In short, United’s debit card launch signals a clear shift: Travel rewards are no longer just about booking flights – they are about integrating with everyday financial life. For those looking to earn miles through debit spending and account balances, this product offers a new door into the world of airline loyalty.