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THE FINE PRINT

Don't Let Reward Miles Vanish

Airlines are deleting miles faster than ever. Flying keeps them alive--downloading an iTunes song does, too.
By Susan Stellin, March 2007 issue |

Delta

JetBlue

  • Credit Card: American Express JetBlue Card, $40 annually; 25 TrueBlue points with first purchase

  • Shopping: None

  • Our Pick: Using the credit card extends the life of points for an additional year

Northwest

  • Credit Card: WorldPerks Visa Platinum Card, $55 annually; 10,000 bonus miles with first purchase

  • Shopping: nwa.com/mall (150 partner retailers)

  • Our Pick: Take the five-minute quiz at nwa.com/worldperks/university

Southwest

  • Credit Card: Southwest Rapid Rewards Visa, $59 annually; eight credits after first purchase

  • Shopping: None

  • Boo! Hiss!: Without exception, mileage credits expire after two years

United

  • Credit Card: United Mileage Plus Visa, free first year, $60 annually thereafter; 21,000 bonus miles after you spend $250

  • Shopping: mponlinemall.com (155 partner retailers)

  • Our Pick: Groceries bought online through partner Safeway

US Airways

  • Credit Card: US Airways World MasterCard, free first year, $79 annually thereafter; 15,000 bonus miles with first purchase

  • Shopping: usairways.com/shop (75 partner retailers)

  • Our Pick: Download a song or two at partner iTunes (99¢)

Note: This story was accurate when it was published. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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