The window has closed: Southwest Airlines’ consumer credit cards offered elevated welcome bonuses of 80,000–90,000 Rapid Rewards points, but these deals expired on July 2, 2026 at 7am EST. If you missed out, here’s a breakdown of what changed, who benefited most, and what to watch for in the future.
Our Take
Good news for Southwest loyalists and Companion Pass seekers. These were some of the most lucrative public offers we’ve seen on Southwest’s personal cards, making it a banner opportunity for travelers aiming for the Companion Pass or big points hauls. If you missed it, keep an eye out—historically, such high offers are rare and short-lived.
What Changed
- All three Southwest consumer cards (Plus, Premier, Priority) offered 80,000–90,000 Rapid Rewards points as a welcome bonus
- Minimum spend requirements ranged from $1,000 to $3,000 in the first 3 months
- Offers expired July 2, 2026 at 7am EST
- By our valuation (1.25¢/point), 90,000 points = ~$1,125 in Southwest flights
- These offers were among the highest public bonuses for these cards in recent years
Who Benefited Most
- Southwest Companion Pass chasers: Earning 80k–90k points from one card put travelers within striking distance of the 135,000-point requirement for the Companion Pass, worth $1,000+ in free flights for a companion.
- Frequent Southwest flyers: Someone spending $3,000 for the 90k bonus could redeem those points for ~$1,125 in flights, easily covering multiple roundtrips.
- Families planning group travel: Two partners each opening a card could net up to 180,000 points—worth ~$2,250 in flights—plus a Companion Pass for nearly two years.
- Deal hunters: Anyone who timed their application right maximized value, as these offers far exceeded the cards’ usual 40k–75k bonuses.
Who Should Be Cautious
- Travelers who missed the deadline: If you didn’t apply by July 2, you’ll need to wait for the next big offer—current bonuses have likely dropped back to standard levels.
- Non-Southwest flyers: These points are only valuable if you fly Southwest, as transfers to other airlines aren’t possible.
- Those who opened a Southwest card in the past 24 months: Chase’s 24-month rule means you’re ineligible for another bonus if you’ve earned one recently.
What To Do Right Now
- If you applied before July 2, track your minimum spend progress and confirm your bonus posts after meeting requirements.
- Didn’t get in? Monitor Southwest card offers—historically, elevated bonuses return a few times per year, often in Q1 or Q4.
- Consider pairing a business Southwest card if you’re still aiming for the Companion Pass (subject to eligibility).
- Review your travel plans: if Southwest is your go-to, strategize for the next bonus cycle.
