Applying for a new credit card can feel a bit daunting: What if you get rejected? The best preapproved credit cards, however, can help ease some of your concerns. Getting preapproved generally means that a credit card issuer has conducted a preliminary review of your finances and concluded that your odds of approval are good.
However, preapproval doesn’t mean the card is in the mail. There’s still a chance that your formal application will get denied. Read on to learn more about how the preapproval process works, what it means for your credit score and which issuers offer preapproved credit cards.
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Featured Offer
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Welcome Offer Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
$200 Cash Rewards
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Score Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Excellent, Good
Methodology
Our team of experts evaluated cards from issuers that offer some form of preapproval, evaluating factors such as rewards value, sign-up bonus value and annual fees. Using a data-based approach, we narrowed down the list to the top nine credit cards that scored highly based on our weightings. Read our full methodology below.
Show summary
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Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: *
Best preapproved credit cardThe information for the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
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Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: *
Best mid-tier travel rewards cardThe information for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
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The Platinum Card® from American Express: *
Best for luxury travel perksThe information for the The Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
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Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card: Best mid-tier flexible points card
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Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card: Best for cash back
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Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card: *
Best for no annual feeThe information for the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
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Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card: *
Best for Marriott hotelsThe information for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
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Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express: *
Best for Hilton hotelsThe information for the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
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Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card: *
Best for Delta Air LinesThe information for the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
All information about Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card and The Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
* The information for the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Best preapproved credit card
Key takeaways
2X
Earn 2 miles per dollar on all eligible purchases.
2X
Earn 5 miles per dollar on flights when booking via Capital One Travel.
10X
Earn 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars when booking via Capital One Travel.
5/5
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Best preapproved credit card
Welcome bonus Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
75,000 miles
Annual fee
$395
Regular APR
22.24% – 29.24% (Variable)
Credit score Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Excellent
Why we picked it
The Venture X is a premium travel credit card, and you’ll need strong credit to qualify. If you’re preapproved, there are plenty of reasons to proceed with your official application, including Priority Pass airport lounge access, a $300 annual credit to cover Capital One Travel bookings and a $100 credit to cover dining, spa services and other eligible expenses every time you stay at a Premier Collection hotel or vacation rental. The card also tops our list of the best credit card sign-up bonus offers right now, with 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening (terms apply, see rates and fees).
+ Pros
- Earn 2 miles per dollar on non-bonus categories with no cap
- Annual $300 credit toward Capital One Travel bookings
- 10,000 bonus miles each account anniversary
– Cons
- May charge an above-average APR
- Charges a $395 annual fee
- Rewards are best suited for travel and are worth much less if you redeem for cash back
Highlights
- Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
- Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
- Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
- Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
- Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
- Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
- Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
* The information for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Best mid-tier travel rewards card
Key takeaways
2X
Earn unlimited 2x miles on every purchase, every day.
5X
Earn 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options.
4.9/5
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Best mid-tier travel rewards card
Welcome bonus Earn a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
75,000 miles
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
21.24% – 29.24%
Credit score Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Excellent, Good
Why we picked it
The Capital One Venture card offers an identical welcome bonus to the Venture X, but with a significantly lower annual fee of just $95. It’s a great choice for occasional travelers with strong credit. While the everyday benefits are also smaller than the Venture X’s — no $300 travel credit, for example — the card still offers elite status with Hertz and a credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry (terms apply, see rates and fees).
+ Pros
- Welcome bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within three months from account opening
- Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
- Miles transfer to airline and hotel partners
– Cons
- Limited bonus rewards opportunities
- Charges a $95 annual fee
- Rewards are best suited for travel and are worth much less if you redeem for cash back
Highlights
- Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
- Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
- Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
- Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
- Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
- Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
- Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
The Platinum Card® from American Express
* The information for the The Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Best for luxury travel perks
Key takeaways
5X
Earn 5 Membership Rewards Points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel and on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex travel. The airline benefit is limited to the first $500,000 in purchases per calendar year.
1X
Earn 1 point for every dollar spent on other eligible purchases.
4.5/5
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Best for luxury travel perks
Welcome bonus Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 80,000 points
Annual fee
$695
Regular APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Credit score Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Excellent/Good
Why we picked it
This card’s laundry list of benefits might intimidate some prospective card holders, but the American Express “Apply With Confidence” feature can tell you whether you’ll be able to add it to your wallet before you apply. If you qualify, do some math to make sure you’ll feel good about paying the $695 annual fee every time you relax in one of the 1,400+ airport lounges the card unlocks or enjoy elite status perks when you check in at the Hertz, Avis or National rental car counter.
+ Pros
- Generous welcome bonus offer
- Premium benefits including statement credits, hotel elite status and airport lounge access
- Top-notch travel and purchase protections
– Cons
- High annual fee
- Base rewards rate is just 1 point per dollar on most purchases
- Statement credits and perks can be hard to maximize
Highlights
- Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
- Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
- $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peaco*ck, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
- $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card®. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Up Benefits are excluded.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
- $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
- $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back in statement credits per calendar year on an Equinox membership, or an Equinox club membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you pay with your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. Visit https://platinum.equinox.com/ to enroll.
- $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR Plus at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Platinum Card®. Learn more.
- $100 Global Entry Credit: Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
- Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit: Get a $300 statement credit for the purchase of a SoulCycle at-home bike with your Platinum Card®. An Equinox+ subscription is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. Enrollment Required.
- Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
- $695 annual fee.
- Terms Apply.
All information about The Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
Best mid-tier flexible points card
Key takeaways
60K
Receive 60,000 online bonus points – a $600 value – after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
2X
Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
Points
If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87-2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
3.2/5
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Best mid-tier flexible points card
On Bank of America’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus 60,000 online bonus points – a $600 value – after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
60,000 points
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
20.24% – 27.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Credit score Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Good, Excellent
Why we picked it
The Bank of America Premium Rewards card has a $95 annual fee, but it’s easily offset by a $100 credit for airline incidental fees each year, plus a 60,000 online bonus points after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. To maximize the card’s value, however, you’re going to need to participate in the bank’s Preferred Rewards program, which offers bonus rewards for customers who maintain a minimum balance of $20,000 in eligible banking and investing accounts.
+ Pros
- Up to $100 in annual airline incidental fee credits
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
- Strong travel protections including emergency evacuation and transportation coverage
– Cons
- $95 annual fee
- No airline or hotel transfer partners
- Requires at least good credit to be considered
Highlights
- Receive 60,000 online bonus points – a $600 value – after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
- Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87 – 2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
- Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
- Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
- Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Low $95 annual fee.
- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Best for cash back
Key takeaways
2%
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
3.1/5
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Best for cash back
On Wells Fargo’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
$200 Cash Rewards
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR
Credit score Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Good, Excellent
Why we picked it
Card holders who prefer a straightforward earning structure will appreciate the flat 2% earning rate on all purchases with the Wells Fargo Active Cash. With no categories to track, the card is a good pick for anyone who doesn’t have extra time to navigate travel partners or quarterly rewards. Plus, there’s an easy-to-attain $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months.
+ Pros
- Welcome bonus of $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months
- Offers cell phone protection
- 0% APR offer on new purchases and balance transfers for15 months (then 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter)
– Cons
- Charges 3% foreign transaction fee
- No bonus rewards categories
- Limited perks
Highlights
- Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
- Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
- Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
- 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
- $0 annual fee.
- No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
- Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
* The information for the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Best for no annual fee
Key takeaways
1.25X
Earn unlimited 1.25x miles on every purchase, every day. Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn.
5X
Earn 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options.
3.3/5
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Best for no annual fee
Welcome bonus Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
20,000 Miles
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.99% – 29.99% Variable
Credit score Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Excellent, Good
Why we picked it
The Capital One VentureOne can get you closer to a getaway with 1.25 Capital One miles for every dollar you spend and a welcome bonus of 20,000 miles after spending $500 on purchases within three months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel (terms apply, see rates and fees). (Capital One offers a similar card called VentureOne Rewards for Good Credit that also offers 1.25 miles per dollar but no bonus).
+ Pros
- 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers (then a 19.99% – 29.99% Variable APR)
- No foreign transaction fee
- Possible to transfer miles to participating loyalty programs
– Cons
- Requires strong credit history
- Travel must be booked through Capital One Travel to earn bonus rewards
- May charge a high regular APR (19.99% – 29.99% Variable)
Highlights
- $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
- Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
- Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
- Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
- Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
- Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
- Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% – 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
* The information for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Best for Marriott hotels
Key takeaways
6X
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
3X
3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines.
2X
2X points on all other eligible purchases.
4.9/5
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Best for Marriott hotels
Welcome bonus 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership
185,000 points
Annual fee
$650
Regular APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Credit score Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Excellent, Good
Why we picked it
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant comes with a list of benefits, including Marriott Bonvoy Platinum elite status, one Marriott free night award certificate per year valued up to 85,000 points and a $100 credit to cover eligible dining, spa services and recreational activities during any eligible two-night stay at The Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis. There’s a hefty $650 annual fee, but it can be offset with an earning structure that helps you stockpile points for more vacations.
+ Pros
- Valuable perks for Marriott stays
- Premium travel and dining benefits
- High base rewards rate
– Cons
- High annual fee
- Rewards have limited flexibility
- No introductory 0% APR
Highlights
- Earn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
- $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
- With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
- Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
- Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
- Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
- $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
- Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
- Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
- Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
- With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month’s wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
- $650 Annual Fee.
- Terms Apply.
All information about Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express
* The information for the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Best for Hilton hotels
Key takeaways
14X
14x Hilton Honors bonus points on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
7X
7x points on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies, and at U.S. restaurants.
3X
3x points on other eligible purchases.
4.8/5
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Best for Hilton hotels
Welcome bonus Earn 175,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases within your first 6 months of card membership
175,000 points
Annual fee
$550
Regular APR
20.99% – 29.99% variable
Credit score Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Excellent, Good
Why we picked it
The Amex Hilton Aspire Card catapults card holders into Hilton Honors Diamond status, the highest tier in the Hilton Honors loyalty program, and comes with perks such as up to $400 to cover eligible spending at Hilton resorts each year and an annual free night reward. The $550 annual fee is high, but Hilton loyalists can make up for it with the card’s rewards and benefits.
+ Pros
- Generous welcome bonus offer
- Automatic top-tier Hilton Diamond elite status
- Up to $400 per year in statement credits toward Hilton Resort purchases
– Cons
- High annual fee
- Hilton statement credits are doled out as up to $200 semi-annually
- No airport lounge access
Highlights
- Earn 175,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases on the card within your first 6 months of card membership
- Earn 14 points for every dollar spent when you make eligible purchases on your card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton Portfolio
- Earn 7 points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases on your card for: Flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies and U.S. restaurants
- Earn 3 bonus points per dollar spent on other eligible purchases
- Up to $400 in statement credits each year of card membership ($200 semi-annually) for eligible purchases at participating Hilton Resorts
- Complimentary Diamond status
- Annual free night reward, terms apply
- Up to $200 flight credit ($50 in statement credits each quarter)
All information about Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
* The information for the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Best for Delta Air Lines
Key takeaways
3X
Earn 3X Miles on purchases made directly with hotels.
3X
Earn 3X Miles on Delta flights and Delta Vacations.
2X
Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
1x
Earn 1x miles on all other eligible purchases.
3/5
The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.
Best for Delta Air Lines
Welcome bonus Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Earn 90,000 bonus miles
Annual fee
$350
Regular APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Credit score Credit score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Excellent/Good
Why we picked it
The Delta SkyMiles Platinum can make vacation feel like a real deal with a 15% discount on Delta award tickets, a companion certificate on an eligible round-trip flight each year and up to $150 annually to cover eligible hotel stays or vacation rentals. The card’s welcome bonus of 90,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in purchases in the first 6 months of card membership puts Delta loyalists closer to their next vacation, too (terms apply, see rates and fees).
+ Pros
- Comes with a companion certificate each year
- Free first checked bag for you and up to eight other passengers on your reservation
- Statement credits can cover certain travel expenses
– Cons
- $350 annual fee
- Low base rewards rate
- Doesn’t come with airport lounge access
Highlights
- Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
- ENHANCED! Receive a Companion Certificate on Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of the government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
- NEW! Receive $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
- Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
- NEW! Earn $1 Medallion® Qualification Dollar for each $20 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
- Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
- Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
- Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
- NEW! $120 Resy Credit: With the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card Resy Credit, earn up to $10 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
- NEW! $120 Rideshare Credit: You can earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers after you pay with your Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card. Enrollment Required.
- Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights. Plus enjoy Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding and settle into your seat sooner.
- Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive $100 back for Global Entry or $85 back for TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Official Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
- NEW! Not a Medallion Member? Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members. Ticket must be purchased on or after February 1, 2024 to be eligible to receive a complimentary upgrade.
- NEW! $150 Delta Stays Credit: Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card Members can earn up to $150 back annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com.
- NEW! Transform your car rental experience with Hertz Five Star® Status, compliments of your Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card. Enrollment in the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program is required. To receive the benefit, you must add your Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Account number to your SkyMiles Account associated with your Eligible Card, register at delta.com/mypromos/eligible, and “Enroll in Promotion” at delta.com/hertz.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Want even more flexibility? Take up to $50 off the cost of your flight for every 5,000 miles you redeem with Pay with Miles when you book on delta.com.
- $350 Annual Fee.
- Terms Apply.
All information about Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.
| Annual fee | Welcome bonus | Best for | Credit level required | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card*The information for the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. | $395 | 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening | Preapproval | Excellent |
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card*The information for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. | $95 | 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | Mid-tier travel rewards | Good to excellent |
The Platinum Card® from American Express*The information for the The Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. | $695 | 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $8,000 on purchases within the first six months of account opening | Luxury travel perks | Good to excellent |
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card | $95 | 60,000 online bonus points after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening | Mid-tier flexible points | Good to excellent |
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card | $0 | $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months | Cash back | Good to excellent |
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card*The information for the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. | $0 | 20,000 miles after spending $500 on purchases within three months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel | No annual fee | Good to excellent |
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card*The information for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. | $650 | 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases within the first six months | Marriott hotels | Good to excellent |
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express*The information for the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. | $550 | 175,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first six months of opening an account | Hilton hotels | Good to excellent |
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card*The information for the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. | $350 | 90,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in purchases in the first 6 months of card membership | Delta Air Lines | Good to excellent |
How to get preapproval for a credit card
- Watch for offers in your mailbox: Credit card issuers still send targeted preapproved offers through physical mail, which may include a personalized code for an online preapproval.
- Look for online preapproval options: Some issuers allow any prospective card holder to complete an online preapproval form with some basic information such as your name, address and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
- Look for other terminology: Some issuers do not label their offers as preapprovals. Instead, you might see invitations to get pre-qualified or to review personalized or matched offers. If you’re concerned about whether pursuing one of these options will impact your credit score, call the customer service line first to verify that it’s a soft pull.
- Be honest: Preapproval forms may ask for financial information such as your income and your monthly housing costs. Make sure you share truthful information to avoid any hiccups on the formal application.
What is credit card preapproval?
When you’re preapproved for a credit card, it means the issuer is likely to formally approve your application. A preapproval happens after an issuer conducts a soft pull on your credit report and reviews any additional requested information such as your income and monthly housing costs. If that initial glimpse looks good based on the issuer’s lending standards, you’ll be preapproved.
Not all issuers offer preapprovals for credit cards. Additionally, a preapproval does not mean you are 100% guaranteed to get the card. You’ll still need to submit additional information on a formal application to complete the process.
Issuers that offer preapproval
You may be able to request credit card preapproval online, or you might get offers by mail or email. You can contact an issuer to get more information about what a preapproved or personalized offer means for your application odds. Here are tools different issuers offer:
- American Express: To see which American Express cards you pre-qualify for, you’ll need to share your name, address, the last four digits of your Social Security number and your annual income. You can also use Amex’s “Apply with Confidence” feature to get a step further and see if you’re approved for a personal credit card before you officially apply.
- Bank of America: Bank of America uses a personalized offers system, which requires your name, the last four digits of your Social Security number, your address and the type of card you want.
- Capital One: Capital One’s online preapproval tool requires information including your name, birthday and income. You can also share what type of card you’re looking for.
- Citi: While Citi does not have a publicly displayed preapproval form, you can respond to preapproved offers you have received in the mail with your invitation code.
- Discover: Discover’s preapproval application requires your name, address, birthday, monthly housing costs, annual income and what kind of card you’re looking for. Additionally, you’ll need to share if you are a student.
- Wells Fargo: Wells Fargo’s preapproval form requires your name, address and the last four digits of your Social Security Number.
Credit card preapproval vs. pre-qualification
Some credit card lenders offer preapproval, and others offer pre-qualification. There isn’t necessarily any difference between the two — unlike mortgages, where being preapproved carries more weight than being pre-qualified.
With credit cards, preapprovals and pre-qualifications are both indications that an issuer is likely to approve you for the card. For some issuers, the difference between preapproval and pre-qualification relies on who initiates the process: A preapproval may be an unsolicited offer that arrives in your mailbox, while a pre-qualification may indicate that you proactively submitted your information.
Methodology
Our money and data analytics teams evaluated credit cards with preapproval features. We then narrowed down our list of the best preapproved credit cards by giving them a star rating out of five based on the following factors and our editorial judgment:
Rewards value (30%)
Many credit cards earn rewards, but not all credit card points and miles are worth the same amount. We used spending data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and estimates of rewards values from The Points Guy to determine which cards dole out the best rewards value.
Select fees (25%)
Cards with no or low annual fees and foreign transaction fees received a boost compared to cards with higher fees.
Sign-up bonus value (20%)
Many cards offer bonus cash back, points or miles to consumers who spend a certain amount in their first months with the card. We calculated how much those bonuses are worth using points valuations from The Points Guy, and boosted cards that offer more value.
Benefits (20%)
Cards that offer benefits such as cell phone protection, purchase protection, extended warranty and a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers received a boost.
Annual credits and bonuses (5%)
Credit cards that come with credits and bonuses for spending in categories including groceries, dining, entertainment and gas received a boost.
What didn’t make the cut
Plenty of other cards offer preapproval, but we didn’t include all of them on our list. Here’s why we left these groups of cards off our ranking:
- Other American Express cards: The American Express credit card lineup includes a wide range of cards that can be great picks, depending on your spending patterns — the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express*The information for the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. earns 6 points per dollar on up to $6,000 of U.S. supermarket spending per year (then 1%), for example. We can’t include them all here, but you can check whether you’re approved for eligible cards with the issuer’s “Apply With Confidence” feature (terms apply, see rates and fees).
- Other Wells Fargo cards: You can get preapproval on other Wells Fargo credit cards, but the Wells Fargo Active Cash is the pick that really stood out for its simplicity.
- Discover cards: Discover offers preapproval for all its credit cards online. While Discover credit cards are a good fit for some consumers, they didn’t beat out the cards on our list under our methodology.
All information about Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Getting preapproved for a credit card will not hurt your credit score. Issuers use soft inquiries for preapprovals, which do not have any impact on your score. However, if you are uncertain about an issuer’s preapproval process, call the customer service line to verify that it will not impact your credit score.
A credit card issuer can still deny your application after issuing your preapproval. This is more likely if any red flags appear on your official application. A preapproval is an indication — not a guarantee — that you are likely to receive approval if you apply.
The main upside of getting preapproved for a credit card is that it will allow you to make an informed decision about formally applying for the card without impacting your credit score. Additionally, some issuers will use the preapproval process to show you multiple cards that you are likely to qualify for, which can help you compare options without submitting multiple applications.
Capital One and Discover offer preapprovals for cards that are geared toward individuals with lower credit scores.
To view rates and fees for Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card*The information for the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card*The information for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express*The information for the The Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card*The information for the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card*The information for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express*The information for the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , please visit .
To view rates and fees for Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card*The information for the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , please visit this page.
All information about The Platinum Card® from American Express, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express and Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.
*The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by CNN Underscored Money: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card*The information for the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card*The information for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , The Platinum Card® from American Express*The information for the The Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card*The information for the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card*The information for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express*The information for the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , and Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card*The information for the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. . The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
All information about The Platinum Card® from American Express, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express and Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.
