The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is designed for frequent flyers who prefer to travel with a touch of luxury and efficiency. Offering a wide array of premium benefits specifically tailored for Delta loyalists, this card enhances every step of your travel experience from the airport lounge to the destination. This guide will explore the card’s benefits, rewards program, and how to apply.
Key Features of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
- Significant Welcome Bonus: The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card typically offers a lucrative welcome bonus of SkyMiles after reaching a minimum spending requirement within the first few months of card membership. This initial boost can be a significant value for frequent flyers.
- Earning SkyMiles: Cardholders earn 3 miles per dollar on Delta purchases and 1 mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases. This earning structure makes it easy to accumulate miles quickly, especially for regular Delta customers.
- Annual Companion Certificate: One of the most compelling features of the Reserve Card is the annual companion certificate. This benefit allows cardholders to receive a domestic first class, Delta Comfort+, or main cabin round-trip companion ticket each year upon card renewal.
- Complimentary Delta Sky Club® Access: When flying on a Delta flight, cardholders enjoy complimentary access to Delta Sky Clubs®. Additionally, the card includes access to American Express Centurion Lounges when the ticket is booked on a Delta flight with the Reserve Card.
- Upgrade Priority: Cardholders receive a higher priority for complimentary upgrades, even if they do not have Medallion status. This is a significant perk for those looking to enhance their flying experience.
- Status Boost™: By spending certain thresholds on the card within a calendar year, cardholders can earn Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs), which help achieve or maintain Delta Medallion Status.
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Fee Credit: The card covers the application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck once every four years, making airport security faster and more convenient.
- Travel and Purchase Protections: Cardholders benefit from baggage insurance, trip delay insurance, car rental loss and damage insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranty.
Rewards and Redemption
The SkyMiles earned with the Delta Reserve Card can be redeemed for flights on Delta and its partner airlines, seat upgrades, and more. Delta SkyMiles never expire, and there are no blackout dates on Delta flights, providing great flexibility for travelers.
Interest Rates and Fees
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card carries a premium annual fee, which is justified by its extensive travel benefits. The card has a variable APR for purchases, which is competitive with other premium credit cards.
How to Apply for the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
- Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet the credit score and income requirements, typically needing a good to excellent credit score.
- Visit the American Express Website: Go directly to the American Express website, and navigate to the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card page.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Provide necessary details such as your full name, address, income, Social Security Number, and Delta SkyMiles number (if you have one).
- Submit the Application: After reviewing all entered information and agreeing to the terms, submit your application.
- Wait for Approval: American Express may give an instant decision. If further review is needed, it may take a few days to receive a response.
- Activate Your Card: Upon approval and receipt of your card, follow the instructions provided to activate it.
Conclusion
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is a gateway to a more refined travel experience. With benefits designed to make travel more comfortable, rewarding, and efficient, it’s tailored for those who travel frequently and prefer to do so with Delta Air Lines. The high annual fee is offset by the high potential value of the benefits, especially for those who can take full advantage of the companion certificate and lounge access.
Whether you’re looking to elevate your travel experience or earn rewards faster through your spending, the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve offers a compelling proposition. For frequent Delta flyers, the benefits far outweigh the costs, making it an excellent investment in your travel lifestyle.
