The Points Tool You've Always Wanted

United Airlines has introduced more restrictive “basic” fare classes for its premium economy and business class cabins. There are now three fare types: basic, standard, and flexible, with basic fares removing perks typically expected in premium cabins. Basic fares charge for seat selection, do not allow ticket changes, and limit upgrade opportunities from premium economy. Basic business class fares also do not include Polaris lounge access, though United Club access remains. This is a disappointing shift, as premium cabins are now seeing the same unbundling as economy, though it reflects the broader trend of airlines maximizing revenue.

Many Chase cards, from the $795 Sapphire Reserve to several co-branded cards, offer a DoorDash benefit that includes $10 off monthly or quarterly non-restaurant orders. In practice, inflated prices, fees, and tips often offset that value. One workaround has been using pickup orders to avoid those extra costs, but DoorDash has begun implementing a $20 minimum on pickup orders. While this doesn’t appear to be a company-wide policy yet, with reports varying by store and location, it may become more widespread. This was already a frustrating benefit to use, and this change makes it even less valuable.

United Airlines has made changes to both earning and redeeming miles, placing a greater emphasis on holding a co-branded credit card. Cardmembers (above the Gateway card) will earn more miles on paid flights and receive a 10% discount on award bookings, while elite members receive a 15% discount. Cardmembers and elite members will also have expanded access to Polaris business class saver awards. United is clearly incentivizing co-branded card ownership, so if you frequently redeem miles for United flights and don’t currently hold one, it may be worth considering.

Rakuten is offering an additional $150 for applying for the Bank of America Travel Rewards card or $75 for the Customized Cash card, stacking with each card’s standard welcome offer. The Travel Rewards card currently offers 25,000 points after $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days, while the Customized Cash card offers $200 after the same spend requirement. Neither card ranks highly on our list, but if you value Rakuten earnings through Amex Membership Rewards or Bilt, this can be an easy way to pick up extra points across multiple programs.