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Southwest Airlines has surely been shaking things up this year, and they’re not stopping yet! 🛑 Southwest has rolled out huge changes recently like taking away their legendary free checked bags, assigned seats are coming soon (January 27th, 2026), and now they’re revamping their credit cards….some good…some not so good.

Let’s break down these card changes and talk about which one might be right for you. 👇🏼

Card Changes: a quick recap of the good and the bad

💰First things first: they’re raising annual fees on these cards. All three cards will now have a higher annual fee, ranging from $99-$229.

🧳 Southwest is also advertising that these cards have a new benefit of a first checked bag for free, and while this is technically new, it’s a bit of a sting since we’re all still recovering from the loss of free checked bags for everyone.

✈️ These cards also now give you Group 5 boarding.

💳 And finally, their two lower tiered cards have a new annual flight discount coupon.

Which card is right for you?

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

Still has the lowest annual fee: $99 (up from $69)
3,000 anniversary points each year
10,000 qualifying Rapid Rewards points toward the Companion Pass
10% off flight promo code each year
Standard seat selection within 48 hours of travel

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card

$149 annual fee (up from $99)
6,000 anniversary points each year
10,000 qualifying Rapid Rewards points toward the Companion Pass
15% off flight promo code each year
Standard or Preferred seat selection within 48 hours of travel

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

$229 annual fee (up from $149)
7,500 anniversary points each year
10,000 qualifying Rapid Rewards points toward the Companion Pass
Standard or Preferred seat selection at booking when available
Upgrade to extra legroom seat at 48 hours prior to travel when available

*All information about Chase Southwest credit cards has been collected independently by Packed with Points. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

So should you apply?

That depends on your goal!

Are you hoping to earn the Companion Pass for 2026-2027?

Then I would say YES with one big caveat: make sure to check for current/elevated offers and referring back to our Companion Pass guide for up to date strategies based on those offers.

Are you looking to rack up more airline miles?

Then I would say MAYBE with a few thoughts: this is a good chunk of points but not necessarily the best airline card offer if you don’t fly Southwest regularly. But if you’re a Southwest fan already, this is a great way to stash up miles for your next nearly free flight. 👏🏻

Are you brand new to points and miles?

Then I would say MAYBE for a couple reasons: I always recommend flexible points when you’re just starting out so that you have more options for how to use those points. Also, the Companion Pass strategy can be tricky so it might not be the best way to jump into points and miles. So if you’re new to all of this, check out my BEST OFFERS page with the best flexible point cards!

Side note: I cannot say thank you enough for using my links to apply! I earn a commission for those applications at no cost to you, and it helps keep all the free resources and support coming! 🩷

EDITORIAL DISCLOSURE: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

Southwest Card Changes