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If you’ve jumped into the deep end of the points and miles game, the United MileagePlus Explorer card may be out of your reach, thanks to Chase’s 5/24 rule. You may be thinking, how else can I earn United miles without flying? Now you have another option, thanks to the MileagePlus GO Visa Prepaid Card. But is this card worth it? Let’s dive into the details!

(READ MORE: Chase 5/24 is real and here’s the proof)

MileagePlus Go Visa Details

a card with green text and numbersPer the MileagePlus Go website, the product details are:

  • Earn 1 mile for every $1 of qualifying signature purchases made in-store and online, up to 2,500 miles each month
  • No credit check, late fees, or interest
  • Annual fee of $85

Let’s get the good point out of the way first: it’s nice that you’re able to earn one point per dollar on some purchases. That’s pretty much where the good ends.

In terms of the bad? Well, let’s look back at the details list above. You earn one point per mile, but only on purchases that require a signature, meaning PIN-based transactions don’t earn points. You also are capped at earning a paltry 2,500 points a month, or 30,000 points a year. And the cherry on top? You have to pay $85 a year for the “privilege” of using this card!

Remember, United MileagePlus is a transfer partner with Chase Ultimate Rewards (if you have a “premium” UR-earning card) and Starwood SPG, so that could be a way to get more United MileagePlus miles. If you haven’t been locked out by Chase 5/24, you may want to consider the United MileagePlus Explorer card or the Chase Sapphire Preferred to boost your United point balance.

(SEE ALSO: Why I keep recommending the Chase Sapphire Preferred for people starting out)

If you can’t tell yet, this card gets a failing grade — it’s definitely not worth your time or energy.


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