How to Get TSA PreCheck for Free with Credit Cards

How to Get TSA PreCheck for Free with Credit Cards

If you're a frequent traveler, you're probably well aware of the long lines and wait times at airport security checkpoints. However, there is a way to avoid the hassle and breeze through security with TSA PreCheck. This program allows you to keep your shoes, belts, and jackets on, leave your liquids and laptops in your bag, and walk through a metal detector instead of a full-body scanner. The best part? You can get TSA PreCheck for free with certaincredit cards. Here's how.

Understanding TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck is a program offered by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that allows low-risk travelers to enjoy expedited security screening at participating airports across the United States. To qualify for TSA PreCheck, you must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident, and you must not have any disqualifying criminal convictions or pending criminal charges. In addition, you must submit an application and attend an in-person appointment for a background check and fingerprinting.

How to Get TSA PreCheck for Free with Credit Cards

Some credit cards offer TSA PreCheck as a complimentary benefit. This means that the credit card company will cover the cost of your TSA PreCheck application fee, which is $85 for a five-year membership. To take advantage of this benefit, you'll need to follow these steps:

1. Check if your credit card offers TSA PreCheck. Not all credit cards offer this benefit, so you'll need to check with your credit card company to see if it's available.

2. Apply for TSA PreCheck. Once you've confirmed that your credit card offers TSA PreCheck, you'll need to apply for the program and pay the $85 application fee. Be sure to use your credit card to pay for the application fee, as this is how you'll receive the credit.

3. Receive your credit. After your application is approved and you attend your in-person appointment, the credit card company will issue a statement credit for the $85 application fee. This credit should appear on your account within a few billing cycles.

Benefits of TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck can save you a lot of time and hassle at the airport. With TSA PreCheck, you can:

1. Keep your shoes, belts, and jackets on.

2. Leave your liquids and laptops in your bag.

3. Walk through a metal detector instead of a full-body scanner.

4. Enjoyexpedited screeninglines.

By using a credit card that offers TSA PreCheck as a benefit, you can enjoy all of these perks for free.

Other Credit Card Benefits

In addition to TSA PreCheck, credit cards offer a wide range of benefits that can help you save money and travel more comfortably. Some common benefits include:

1. Travel rewards points or miles that you can use to book flights, hotels, and rental cars.

2. No foreign transaction fees, which can save you money when traveling abroad.

3. Lounge access, which provides a comfortable and quiet place to relax before a flight.

4. Travel insurance, which can protect you from unexpected events like flight cancellations or lost luggage.

However, it's important to remember that credit cards also come with fees and risks. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before applying for a credit card, and make sure you understand the annual fee, interest rates, and any other fees associated with the card. In addition, be sure to use your credit card responsibly to avoid accumulating debt and damaging your credit score.

Conclusion

TSA PreCheck is a great way to save time and hassle at the airport, and you can get it for free with certain credit cards. By following the steps outlined above, you can take advantage of this benefit and enjoy expedited security screening at participating airports across the United States. However, it's important to remember that credit cards also come with fees and risks, so be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before applying for a credit card.