INDEPENDENT REWARDS RESEARCH

Rapid Rewards guide

Southwest Airlines · Rapid Rewards points · None

Southwest’s points program; points are earned by flying, on Southwest co-brand credit cards and with partners. Chase issues the Southwest cards; Chase Ultimate Rewards and Bilt Points can transfer in at 1:1.

How it works

Southwest states there are no blackout dates and you can use points for any seat, any time.

Earning

Earn by flying, spending with partners and using a Rapid Rewards credit card. Card earn rates differ by card; read each card profile.

Using rewards

Redeem for flights; Cash + Points bookings are available and still earn points and tier-qualifying points, per Southwest.

Partners

Chase Ultimate Rewards and Bilt list Southwest as a transfer partner (see their card profiles).

Expiry

Southwest states that Rapid Rewards points do not expire.

Before you book

Fare class and Cash + Points rules change; confirm on Southwest before transferring since transfers are final.

Official program website

Official policy source · Guide check: 2026-10-20

Cards with a recorded Rapid Rewards route

Find an eligible card route

Bank transfers vary by country and product. Start with your country guide, then confirm the exact partner and ratio on the issuer’s site.

Transfer checklist · Booking checklist