Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Score Required
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority from Chase is one of the most competitive credit cards in the travel rewards cards category. With a rating of 7/10, it offers a $149 annual fee and impressive rewards including 3x southwest, 2x hotel/car, 1x else.
In this comprehensive review, we break down everything you need to know about the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority: rewards structure, fees, APR, welcome bonus, and how it compares to competitors. Whether you are looking for your first rewards card or adding to your wallet, this guide covers it all.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Overview
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority is issued by Chase and is designed for consumers with Good-Excellent (700+). It carries a rating of 7/10 from our experts. For those with good to excellent credit, this card can be a valuable addition to your wallet.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Issuer | Chase |
| Annual Fee | $149 |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Regular APR | 20.24% - 27.24% Variable |
| Rewards | 3x Southwest, 2x hotel/car, 1x else |
| Welcome Bonus | 50,000 points after $2,000 in first 3 months |
| Credit Score | Good-Excellent (700+) |
| Foreign Tx Fee | 0% |
Rewards & Benefits Breakdown
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority earns 3x southwest, 2x hotel/car, 1x else. Here is the detailed breakdown of earning rates:
| Category | Reward Rate |
|---|---|
| All Purchases | 3x Southwest, 2x hotel/car, 1x else |
| Welcome Bonus | 50,000 points after $2,000 in first 3 months |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Credit Score | Good-Excellent (700+) |
To offset the $149 annual fee, make sure you earn at least $7450 in rewards annually through travel and dining spending.
Fees & APR Analysis
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $149 |
| Purchase APR | 20.24% - 27.24% Variable |
| Balance Transfer APR | 20.24% - 27.24% Variable |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 0% |
Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority vs Competitors
See how Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority stacks up against similar cards.
| Card | Fee | Rewards | Bonus | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Sapphire Preferred | $95 | 5x travel, 3x dining, 2x all other travel | 60,000 points after $4,000 in first 3... | 9/10 |
| United Explorer | $0 | 2x United/dining, 1x else | 50,000 miles after $3,000 in first 3 ... | 7/10 |
| Citi Premier | $95 | 3x dining/groceries/gas/air/hotel | 60,000 points after $4,000 in first 3... | 8/10 |
| Chase Sapphire Reserve | $550 | 10x travel, 10x dining, 3x all other | 60,000 points after $4,000 in first 3... | 9/10 |
| Capital One Venture X | $395 | 10x hotels/rental cars, 5x flights, 2x else | 75,000 miles after $4,000 in first 3 ... | 9/10 |
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Competitive rewards rate: 3x Southwest, 2x hotel/car, 1x else
- Welcome bonus: 50,000 points after $2,000 in first 3 months
- No foreign transaction fees
- Issued by reputable Chase
❌ Cons
- Annual fee of $149
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority is best for consumers who spend heavily in bonus categories and can justify the annual fee. If you have Good-Excellent (700+) credit and spend $2053/month on average, this card could earn you significant value.
How to Apply for Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority
Applying for the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority is straightforward. Here is the step-by-step process:
- 1
Check Your Credit Score
Before applying, check your credit score. You need Good-Excellent (700+) for the best approval odds.
- 2
Compare Your Options
Compare the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority with similar cards from other issuers to ensure it is the right fit.
- 3
Gather Required Information
You will need your Social Security number, income information, and address to apply.
- 4
Complete the Online Application
Visit Chase.com or the Chase mobile app. The application takes about 5-10 minutes.
- 5
Await Approval Decision
Most applicants receive an instant decision. If approved, your card will arrive in 7-10 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
You need Good-Excellent (700+) credit to be approved for the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority. Approval is not guaranteed and depends on your overall credit profile.
The $149 annual fee can be easily offset if you earn the welcome bonus and use the card for travel and dining.
The purchase APR is 20.24% - 27.24% Variable.
No, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it great for international travel.
Rewards can be redeemed through your Chase online account. Options typically include statement credits, gift cards, travel bookings, and direct deposits.
Conclusion
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority is a solid choice in the travel rewards cards category. With a $149 annual fee and competitive rewards, it offers good value for the right consumer.
We recommend this card for anyone with Good-Excellent (700+) credit looking for travel rewards on their everyday spending. Compare it with other cards in our list to find the best fit for your wallet.
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority earns 3x southwest, 2x hotel/car, 1x else. With a rating of 7/10, it is one of the better options in the travel rewards cards space. Recommended for consumers with Good-Excellent (700+) credit.