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Save $280+ on checked bags while earning 2X miles on dining and groceries
Earn up to 90,000 bonus miles, get free checked bags for you and up to 8 companions on every Delta flight, and earn 2X miles at restaurants and supermarkets. The $150 annual fee ($0 first year) pays for itself in 2-3 round trips with checked luggage.
$150
Annual Fee
90,000
Airline · Welcome Bonus
2X
Top Rate
Annual Fee
$150
Authorized User Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
$0
Network
Amex Standard
Rewards Currency
Delta SkyMiles
Point Valuation
1–1.25 cpp (mid: 1.2)
Credit Required
Good to Excellent
Welcome Offer
90,000
Airline
Spend $5,000 in the first 6 months
Tiered welcome bonus: earn 70,000 bonus miles after $3,000 in purchases in first 6 months, plus 20,000 additional miles after spending $2,000 more (total $5,000) in the same period. At 1.25 cents per mile (TPG valuation), the full 90,000 miles are worth $1,125. Offer ends April 1, 2026.
Benefits & Perks
Program & Transfers
America's premium airline rewards program
Delta SkyMiles is the loyalty program of Delta Air Lines, serving over 100 million members worldwide. As a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, SkyMiles miles can be earned and redeemed across 19 partner airlines including Air France, KLM, Korean Air, and Virgin Atlantic. The program offers revenue-based earning on Delta flights and status qualification through Medallion tiers. Delta operates the largest airline network in the United States with major hubs in Atlanta, Minneapolis, Detroit, Seattle, Los Angeles, and New York. SkyMiles members earn miles based on ticket price rather than distance, with Medallion elite members earning bonus miles on every flight. The program is known for strong premium cabin availability on domestic routes and competitive pricing for SkyTeam partner awards. SkyMiles partners with American Express for co-branded credit cards that offer accelerated earning, free checked bags, and priority boarding. Higher-tier cards grant automatic Medallion status and companion certificates worth up to $1,000 in travel value annually.
Reviews & Analysis
Details & Terms
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Amex 2/90 | You'll be declined if you apply for a third Amex card in 90 days |
| Amex 4 Credit | Amex will decline your application if you already have 5 credit cards (not charge) and apply for a sixth |
| Delta Family | When applying for Delta personal cards, start with the lowest tiered card in the family to be eligible for the signup bonus on each remaining card |
| No 5/24 | Card approval not subject to 5-personal-cards-in-24-months rule |
| Amex 1/7 | Amex allows only 1 bonus per specific card every 7 years (yours or that version of the card) |
| Amex Popup Jail | After you apply, Amex may show a pop-up saying you're ineligible for the welcome bonus |
| Purchase APR | 19.49%–28.49% (Variable) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | $0 |
| Authorized User Fee |
Save $280+ on checked bags while earning 2X miles on dining and groceries
Earn up to 90,000 bonus miles, get free checked bags for you and up to 8 companions on every Delta flight, and earn 2X miles at restaurants and supermarkets. The $150 annual fee ($0 first year) pays for itself in 2-3 round trips with checked luggage.
$150
Annual Fee
90,000
Airline · Welcome Bonus
2X
Top Rate
Annual Fee
$150
Authorized User Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
$0
Network
Amex Standard
Rewards Currency
Delta SkyMiles
Point Valuation
1–1.25 cpp (mid: 1.2)
Credit Required
Good to Excellent
Welcome Offer
90,000
Airline
Spend $5,000 in the first 6 months
Tiered welcome bonus: earn 70,000 bonus miles after $3,000 in purchases in first 6 months, plus 20,000 additional miles after spending $2,000 more (total $5,000) in the same period. At 1.25 cents per mile (TPG valuation), the full 90,000 miles are worth $1,125. Offer ends April 1, 2026.
Benefits & Perks
Program & Transfers
America's premium airline rewards program
Delta SkyMiles is the loyalty program of Delta Air Lines, serving over 100 million members worldwide. As a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, SkyMiles miles can be earned and redeemed across 19 partner airlines including Air France, KLM, Korean Air, and Virgin Atlantic. The program offers revenue-based earning on Delta flights and status qualification through Medallion tiers. Delta operates the largest airline network in the United States with major hubs in Atlanta, Minneapolis, Detroit, Seattle, Los Angeles, and New York. SkyMiles members earn miles based on ticket price rather than distance, with Medallion elite members earning bonus miles on every flight. The program is known for strong premium cabin availability on domestic routes and competitive pricing for SkyTeam partner awards. SkyMiles partners with American Express for co-branded credit cards that offer accelerated earning, free checked bags, and priority boarding. Higher-tier cards grant automatic Medallion status and companion certificates worth up to $1,000 in travel value annually.
Reviews & Analysis
Details & Terms
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Amex 2/90 | You'll be declined if you apply for a third Amex card in 90 days |
| Amex 4 Credit | Amex will decline your application if you already have 5 credit cards (not charge) and apply for a sixth |
| Delta Family | When applying for Delta personal cards, start with the lowest tiered card in the family to be eligible for the signup bonus on each remaining card |
| No 5/24 | Card approval not subject to 5-personal-cards-in-24-months rule |
| Amex 1/7 | Amex allows only 1 bonus per specific card every 7 years (yours or that version of the card) |
| Amex Popup Jail | After you apply, Amex may show a pop-up saying you're ineligible for the welcome bonus |
| Purchase APR | 19.49%–28.49% (Variable) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | $0 |
| Authorized User Fee |
Save $280+ on checked bags while earning 2X miles on dining and groceries
Earn up to 90,000 bonus miles, get free checked bags for you and up to 8 companions on every Delta flight, and earn 2X miles at restaurants and supermarkets. The $150 annual fee ($0 first year) pays for itself in 2-3 round trips with checked luggage.
$150
Annual Fee
90,000
Airline · Welcome Bonus
2X
Top Rate
Annual Fee
$150
Authorized User Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
$0
Network
Amex Standard
Rewards Currency
Delta SkyMiles
Point Valuation
1–1.25 cpp (mid: 1.2)
Credit Required
Good to Excellent
Welcome Offer
90,000
Airline
Spend $5,000 in the first 6 months
Tiered welcome bonus: earn 70,000 bonus miles after $3,000 in purchases in first 6 months, plus 20,000 additional miles after spending $2,000 more (total $5,000) in the same period. At 1.25 cents per mile (TPG valuation), the full 90,000 miles are worth $1,125. Offer ends April 1, 2026.
Benefits & Perks
Program & Transfers
America's premium airline rewards program
Delta SkyMiles is the loyalty program of Delta Air Lines, serving over 100 million members worldwide. As a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, SkyMiles miles can be earned and redeemed across 19 partner airlines including Air France, KLM, Korean Air, and Virgin Atlantic. The program offers revenue-based earning on Delta flights and status qualification through Medallion tiers. Delta operates the largest airline network in the United States with major hubs in Atlanta, Minneapolis, Detroit, Seattle, Los Angeles, and New York. SkyMiles members earn miles based on ticket price rather than distance, with Medallion elite members earning bonus miles on every flight. The program is known for strong premium cabin availability on domestic routes and competitive pricing for SkyTeam partner awards. SkyMiles partners with American Express for co-branded credit cards that offer accelerated earning, free checked bags, and priority boarding. Higher-tier cards grant automatic Medallion status and companion certificates worth up to $1,000 in travel value annually.
Reviews & Analysis
Details & Terms
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Amex 2/90 | You'll be declined if you apply for a third Amex card in 90 days |
| Amex 4 Credit | Amex will decline your application if you already have 5 credit cards (not charge) and apply for a sixth |
| Delta Family | When applying for Delta personal cards, start with the lowest tiered card in the family to be eligible for the signup bonus on each remaining card |
| No 5/24 | Card approval not subject to 5-personal-cards-in-24-months rule |
| Amex 1/7 | Amex allows only 1 bonus per specific card every 7 years (yours or that version of the card) |
| Amex Popup Jail | After you apply, Amex may show a pop-up saying you're ineligible for the welcome bonus |
| Purchase APR | 19.49%–28.49% (Variable) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | $0 |
| Authorized User Fee |
2X
2X miles on Delta purchases - No annual cap
2X
Earn 2x miles for every dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Delta
2X
Earn 2x miles at restaurants
2X
Earn 2x miles at U.S. supermarkets
1X
1X miles on all other eligible purchases - No annual cap
Earn 2 SkyMiles per dollar on flights, upgrades, seat selections, and all purchases made directly with Delta. Stack with SkyMiles earning from your Delta loyalty account for double-dip earning on every flight.
Book a $500 Delta flight: earn 1,000 card miles plus base SkyMiles from Delta, building your balance from both sides.
Earn 2 SkyMiles per dollar at restaurants globally, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. No spending caps, no activation required — automatically earns on all dining purchases.
Spend $400 monthly on dining: earn 800 miles per month (9,600 annually), worth $120 toward Delta flights.
Earn 2 SkyMiles per dollar at U.S. supermarkets with no annual spending cap. Pair with grocery gift card purchases to stack earning across multiple categories.
Spend $600 monthly on groceries: earn 1,200 miles per month (14,400 annually), worth $180 toward Delta flights.
Earn 1 SkyMile per dollar on all remaining eligible purchases. Every dollar spent builds toward your next Delta flight, with no minimum redemption thresholds.
Put $2,000 monthly in other spending on the card: earn 2,000 miles per month (24,000 annually), enough for a short-haul domestic one-way.
Up to
$380
in annual credits
$200 Delta flight credit
$200
Annual
Get a head-start on your next adventure, compliments of your Card. After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you can
$100 Delta Stays
$100
Annual
Get up to $100 back per year as a statement credit after using your Delta Gold Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on
$60 Uber One (6 mo)
$60
Annual
Get $9.99/month in statement credits for Uber One membership with auto-renewal for 6 months. Must register by 6/25/26.
$120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck
—
Annual
Automatic reimbursement for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees every 4 years. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck.
20% inflight purchases
$20
Get 20% back as a statement credit when you purchase food and beverages on board Delta flights with your card.
Combined Protection Value
$300
You're not responsible for unauthorized charges. Amex covers 100% of fraudulent transactions when reported promptly.
Reimbursement up to $300/item ($1K annually) when merchant won't accept return within 90 days. Premium cards only.
Get reimbursed for lost or damaged baggage contents with coverage for carry-on ($1,250) and checked bags ($500) in excess of airline reimbursement.
Secondary coverage for theft and collision damage on rentals up to 30 days. Skip rental counter insurance and save $15-40/day.
Get an extra year of warranty protection on purchases with original warranties of 5 years or less.
Protect your purchases against accidental damage or theft for 90 days after purchase when you use your Delta Gold card.
| Route / Property | Points | Book With | Cabin/Type | Value / Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US to South America in Economy | 10,000 | — | economy | south_america |
| US to Canada in Economy | 10,300 | — | economy | united_states |
| US to Hawaii in Economy | 10,900 | — | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in First Class | 12,500 | — | first | united_states |
| US to Europe in Economy | 23,000 | — | economy | europe |
| Intra-European Economy on Partners | 10,000 | — | economy | europe |
| Intra-European Business on Partners | 25,000 | — | business | europe |
| Middle East to Europe Business Class | 42,500 | — | business | europe |
| Within Asia Business on Korean Air | 15,000 | — | business | asia |
| Asia to Oceania Business Class | 65,000 | — | business | australia_nz |
| LATAM Short-Haul Economy in South America | 6,400 | — | economy | south_america |
| Delta Flash Sales to Europe | 34,000 | — | economy | europe |
| Hawaiian Inter-Island Economy | 7,500 | — | economy | united_states |
The Delta SkyMiles Gold hits the value sweet spot for casual Delta flyers who check bags. Free first checked bag for you plus 8 companions saves $280+ on just 2 round trips with a travel partner, more than covering the $150 annual fee. The $200 flight credit at $10K spend and $100 Delta Stays credit add further offset. Compared to the $350 Platinum (companion certificate, status boost) or $650 Reserve (Sky Club access), the Gold delivers the best return per dollar of annual fee.
With its waived first-year fee, the Delta SkyMiles Gold card suits occasional solo Delta travelers, while frequent flyers or those with companions typically find more value in the Platinum or Reserve cards.
The Delta SkyMiles Gold card has a $150 annual fee that’s waived the first year. This is the primary reason to choose it over Delta’s Platinum or Reserve cards, which generally offer higher overall value. If you plan to fly Delta only once in the next year, will be traveling alone, and want to avoid an annual fee, the Gold card can be a good option. However, if you fly Delta more than once a year or often travel with a companion, the companion certificate and other perks of the Platinum or Reserve cards typically make one of those choices more valuable.
If you fly Delta only once a year, this card might be a decent option. However, if you travel with a companion or fly Delta more frequently, the Reserve or Platinum cards are likely to offer more value despite their higher annual fees.
- The Gold card offers a 50,000 (current special 70,000)-mile sign-up bonus after spending $2,000 in the first six months, making it an easy way to earn Delta miles for free flights.
- American Express allows only one sign-up bonus per card per lifetime, and the bonus for this card can go as high as 80,000 miles. If you’re not in a rush to collect Delta miles, you might wait for a higher offer.
- The advertised $200 flight credit requires $10,000 in annual spending, which may not appeal to everyone.
You receive $100 in Delta Stay credits annually, which helps offset the $150 annual fee (starting in the second year). Other perks include:
- 15% discount on award travel
- 20% off in-flight purchases
- Zone 5 priority boarding
- One free checked bag
- $50 off flights (per 5,000 miles redeemed) when you use Pay with Miles
This card may not be ideal if:
- You plan to fly Delta only this year and have no loyalty to the airline afterward. Once the first-year fee waiver ends, the card’s limited benefits may not justify the $150 annual fee.
- You regularly fly Delta and would gain more from the better perks offered by the Platinum or Reserve cards.
- You’d prefer to wait for an elevated sign-up bonus (it has gone up to 90,000 points in the past).
**Delta is a good point system for both domestic and international flights.**
- Delta offers many cards, making initial collection relatively easy. But the Amex 1/7 Rule limits that ability over time.
- Delta is part of the Amex partner reward system and is a decent transfer value.
- We save Delta points for specific flights, perhaps direct domestic or best value international.
- We use easier-to-collect point systems such as Southwest and American ahead of Delta.
Delta offers a family of personal co-branded cards, each designed to match different travel patterns and preferences:
- **Delta SkyMiles Gold Card**($150 annual fee, waived first year)
Credit Utilization (60%)
Excludes earning value, lounge access, insurance, and elite status
Total Value Captured
$228
Annual Fee
-$150
Net Annual Value
+$78
| $0 |
You can find Delta awards for as little as 4,200 miles. If you have a Delta co-branded credit card, you get a 15% discount, bringing some flights down to 3,570 miles. Taxes are usually low as well, often just $5.60 for a one-way domestic ticket.
The [Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business](https://pointsnav.com/credit-cards/delta-skymiles-reserve-business) card has the highest regular signup bonus. You can earn 80,000 SkyMiles after spending $10,000 in the first six months. You’ll also earn at least 10,000 miles from that spend. Delta has offered elevated 100,000-mile bonuses in the past.
You can access Sky Clubs with Diamond Medallion status or by flying in a premium cabin when you hold Gold or Platinum status. Certain cards also provide access, including the Delta Reserve (personal and business) and the Amex Platinum ( [personal](https://pointsnav.com/credit-cards/american-express-platinum-personal) and [business](https://pointsnav.com/credit-cards/american-express-platinum-business)).
Log in to your Delta SkyMiles account to see your mileage balance. On the website, your name and miles appear at the top right. In the app, tap “Account” to view your balance. If you don’t have a SkyMiles account, you won’t have any Delta miles yet.
Yes. You can request mileage credit after you've flown, even if you didn't have a SkyMiles account at the time. Log in and visit the [Request Mileage Credit page](https://www.delta.com/myskymiles/request-mileage-credit). As long as your flight was at least 7 days ago and within the last 9 months, you can receive credit.
CNN review highlighting baggage savings math showing 2 round trips with companion and checked bags saves $280, exceeding the $150 annual fee. Details insurance limits: purchase protection $1,000/item, baggage insurance $1,250 carry-on and $500 checked.
Comprehensive TPG review rating the Delta Gold 4/5 stars. Covers the up to 90,000 mile welcome offer, $200 flight credit after $10K spend, TakeOff 15 award discount, free checked bags for cardholder plus 8 companions, and comparison with Delta Platinum and Reserve.
Bankrate review analyzing the Delta Gold's value proposition for casual Delta flyers. Covers the $200 flight credit, free checked bags, 2X earning on dining and groceries, and whether the $150 annual fee is justified.
US News rates the Delta Gold 3.9/5 stars. Analysis covers the tiered 90,000 mile welcome offer, $0 intro annual fee, free checked bags, and comparison with other mid-tier airline cards.
NerdWallet comparison of all 4 Delta personal cards (Blue, Gold, Platinum, Reserve) helping readers decide which tier matches their travel frequency. Covers earn rates, free bags, companion certificates, and Sky Club access across the Delta card family.
WalletHub aggregated review with editor score 3.4/5 and user rating 3.7/5. Includes community feedback on real-world benefit usage, bag savings, and comparison with competing airline cards.
CreditKarma review covering the Delta Gold's earn rates, travel benefits, and suitability for occasional Delta flyers. Includes user reviews and approval odds information.
Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights) review of the Delta Gold focused on how to maximize SkyMiles value through deal alerts and smart redemptions. Covers bag savings, priority boarding, and the TakeOff 15 award discount.
| Source | Date | URL |
|---|---|---|
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
2X
2X miles on Delta purchases - No annual cap
2X
Earn 2x miles for every dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Delta
2X
Earn 2x miles at restaurants
2X
Earn 2x miles at U.S. supermarkets
1X
1X miles on all other eligible purchases - No annual cap
Earn 2 SkyMiles per dollar on flights, upgrades, seat selections, and all purchases made directly with Delta. Stack with SkyMiles earning from your Delta loyalty account for double-dip earning on every flight.
Book a $500 Delta flight: earn 1,000 card miles plus base SkyMiles from Delta, building your balance from both sides.
Earn 2 SkyMiles per dollar at restaurants globally, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. No spending caps, no activation required — automatically earns on all dining purchases.
Spend $400 monthly on dining: earn 800 miles per month (9,600 annually), worth $120 toward Delta flights.
Earn 2 SkyMiles per dollar at U.S. supermarkets with no annual spending cap. Pair with grocery gift card purchases to stack earning across multiple categories.
Spend $600 monthly on groceries: earn 1,200 miles per month (14,400 annually), worth $180 toward Delta flights.
Earn 1 SkyMile per dollar on all remaining eligible purchases. Every dollar spent builds toward your next Delta flight, with no minimum redemption thresholds.
Put $2,000 monthly in other spending on the card: earn 2,000 miles per month (24,000 annually), enough for a short-haul domestic one-way.
Up to
$380
in annual credits
$200 Delta flight credit
$200
Annual
Get a head-start on your next adventure, compliments of your Card. After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you can
$100 Delta Stays
$100
Annual
Get up to $100 back per year as a statement credit after using your Delta Gold Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on
$60 Uber One (6 mo)
$60
Annual
Get $9.99/month in statement credits for Uber One membership with auto-renewal for 6 months. Must register by 6/25/26.
$120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck
—
Annual
Automatic reimbursement for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees every 4 years. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck.
20% inflight purchases
$20
Get 20% back as a statement credit when you purchase food and beverages on board Delta flights with your card.
Combined Protection Value
$300
You're not responsible for unauthorized charges. Amex covers 100% of fraudulent transactions when reported promptly.
Reimbursement up to $300/item ($1K annually) when merchant won't accept return within 90 days. Premium cards only.
Get reimbursed for lost or damaged baggage contents with coverage for carry-on ($1,250) and checked bags ($500) in excess of airline reimbursement.
Secondary coverage for theft and collision damage on rentals up to 30 days. Skip rental counter insurance and save $15-40/day.
Get an extra year of warranty protection on purchases with original warranties of 5 years or less.
Protect your purchases against accidental damage or theft for 90 days after purchase when you use your Delta Gold card.
| Route / Property | Points | Book With | Cabin/Type | Value / Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US to South America in Economy | 10,000 | — | economy | south_america |
| US to Canada in Economy | 10,300 | — | economy | united_states |
| US to Hawaii in Economy | 10,900 | — | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in First Class | 12,500 | — | first | united_states |
| US to Europe in Economy | 23,000 | — | economy | europe |
| Intra-European Economy on Partners | 10,000 | — | economy | europe |
| Intra-European Business on Partners | 25,000 | — | business | europe |
| Middle East to Europe Business Class | 42,500 | — | business | europe |
| Within Asia Business on Korean Air | 15,000 | — | business | asia |
| Asia to Oceania Business Class | 65,000 | — | business | australia_nz |
| LATAM Short-Haul Economy in South America | 6,400 | — | economy | south_america |
| Delta Flash Sales to Europe | 34,000 | — | economy | europe |
| Hawaiian Inter-Island Economy | 7,500 | — | economy | united_states |
The Delta SkyMiles Gold hits the value sweet spot for casual Delta flyers who check bags. Free first checked bag for you plus 8 companions saves $280+ on just 2 round trips with a travel partner, more than covering the $150 annual fee. The $200 flight credit at $10K spend and $100 Delta Stays credit add further offset. Compared to the $350 Platinum (companion certificate, status boost) or $650 Reserve (Sky Club access), the Gold delivers the best return per dollar of annual fee.
With its waived first-year fee, the Delta SkyMiles Gold card suits occasional solo Delta travelers, while frequent flyers or those with companions typically find more value in the Platinum or Reserve cards.
The Delta SkyMiles Gold card has a $150 annual fee that’s waived the first year. This is the primary reason to choose it over Delta’s Platinum or Reserve cards, which generally offer higher overall value. If you plan to fly Delta only once in the next year, will be traveling alone, and want to avoid an annual fee, the Gold card can be a good option. However, if you fly Delta more than once a year or often travel with a companion, the companion certificate and other perks of the Platinum or Reserve cards typically make one of those choices more valuable.
If you fly Delta only once a year, this card might be a decent option. However, if you travel with a companion or fly Delta more frequently, the Reserve or Platinum cards are likely to offer more value despite their higher annual fees.
- The Gold card offers a 50,000 (current special 70,000)-mile sign-up bonus after spending $2,000 in the first six months, making it an easy way to earn Delta miles for free flights.
- American Express allows only one sign-up bonus per card per lifetime, and the bonus for this card can go as high as 80,000 miles. If you’re not in a rush to collect Delta miles, you might wait for a higher offer.
- The advertised $200 flight credit requires $10,000 in annual spending, which may not appeal to everyone.
You receive $100 in Delta Stay credits annually, which helps offset the $150 annual fee (starting in the second year). Other perks include:
- 15% discount on award travel
- 20% off in-flight purchases
- Zone 5 priority boarding
- One free checked bag
- $50 off flights (per 5,000 miles redeemed) when you use Pay with Miles
This card may not be ideal if:
- You plan to fly Delta only this year and have no loyalty to the airline afterward. Once the first-year fee waiver ends, the card’s limited benefits may not justify the $150 annual fee.
- You regularly fly Delta and would gain more from the better perks offered by the Platinum or Reserve cards.
- You’d prefer to wait for an elevated sign-up bonus (it has gone up to 90,000 points in the past).
**Delta is a good point system for both domestic and international flights.**
- Delta offers many cards, making initial collection relatively easy. But the Amex 1/7 Rule limits that ability over time.
- Delta is part of the Amex partner reward system and is a decent transfer value.
- We save Delta points for specific flights, perhaps direct domestic or best value international.
- We use easier-to-collect point systems such as Southwest and American ahead of Delta.
Delta offers a family of personal co-branded cards, each designed to match different travel patterns and preferences:
- **Delta SkyMiles Gold Card**($150 annual fee, waived first year)
Credit Utilization (60%)
Excludes earning value, lounge access, insurance, and elite status
Total Value Captured
$228
Annual Fee
-$150
Net Annual Value
+$78
| $0 |
You can find Delta awards for as little as 4,200 miles. If you have a Delta co-branded credit card, you get a 15% discount, bringing some flights down to 3,570 miles. Taxes are usually low as well, often just $5.60 for a one-way domestic ticket.
The [Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business](https://pointsnav.com/credit-cards/delta-skymiles-reserve-business) card has the highest regular signup bonus. You can earn 80,000 SkyMiles after spending $10,000 in the first six months. You’ll also earn at least 10,000 miles from that spend. Delta has offered elevated 100,000-mile bonuses in the past.
You can access Sky Clubs with Diamond Medallion status or by flying in a premium cabin when you hold Gold or Platinum status. Certain cards also provide access, including the Delta Reserve (personal and business) and the Amex Platinum ( [personal](https://pointsnav.com/credit-cards/american-express-platinum-personal) and [business](https://pointsnav.com/credit-cards/american-express-platinum-business)).
Log in to your Delta SkyMiles account to see your mileage balance. On the website, your name and miles appear at the top right. In the app, tap “Account” to view your balance. If you don’t have a SkyMiles account, you won’t have any Delta miles yet.
Yes. You can request mileage credit after you've flown, even if you didn't have a SkyMiles account at the time. Log in and visit the [Request Mileage Credit page](https://www.delta.com/myskymiles/request-mileage-credit). As long as your flight was at least 7 days ago and within the last 9 months, you can receive credit.
CNN review highlighting baggage savings math showing 2 round trips with companion and checked bags saves $280, exceeding the $150 annual fee. Details insurance limits: purchase protection $1,000/item, baggage insurance $1,250 carry-on and $500 checked.
Comprehensive TPG review rating the Delta Gold 4/5 stars. Covers the up to 90,000 mile welcome offer, $200 flight credit after $10K spend, TakeOff 15 award discount, free checked bags for cardholder plus 8 companions, and comparison with Delta Platinum and Reserve.
Bankrate review analyzing the Delta Gold's value proposition for casual Delta flyers. Covers the $200 flight credit, free checked bags, 2X earning on dining and groceries, and whether the $150 annual fee is justified.
US News rates the Delta Gold 3.9/5 stars. Analysis covers the tiered 90,000 mile welcome offer, $0 intro annual fee, free checked bags, and comparison with other mid-tier airline cards.
NerdWallet comparison of all 4 Delta personal cards (Blue, Gold, Platinum, Reserve) helping readers decide which tier matches their travel frequency. Covers earn rates, free bags, companion certificates, and Sky Club access across the Delta card family.
WalletHub aggregated review with editor score 3.4/5 and user rating 3.7/5. Includes community feedback on real-world benefit usage, bag savings, and comparison with competing airline cards.
CreditKarma review covering the Delta Gold's earn rates, travel benefits, and suitability for occasional Delta flyers. Includes user reviews and approval odds information.
Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights) review of the Delta Gold focused on how to maximize SkyMiles value through deal alerts and smart redemptions. Covers bag savings, priority boarding, and the TakeOff 15 award discount.
| Source | Date | URL |
|---|---|---|
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
2X
2X miles on Delta purchases - No annual cap
2X
Earn 2x miles for every dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Delta
2X
Earn 2x miles at restaurants
2X
Earn 2x miles at U.S. supermarkets
1X
1X miles on all other eligible purchases - No annual cap
Earn 2 SkyMiles per dollar on flights, upgrades, seat selections, and all purchases made directly with Delta. Stack with SkyMiles earning from your Delta loyalty account for double-dip earning on every flight.
Book a $500 Delta flight: earn 1,000 card miles plus base SkyMiles from Delta, building your balance from both sides.
Earn 2 SkyMiles per dollar at restaurants globally, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. No spending caps, no activation required — automatically earns on all dining purchases.
Spend $400 monthly on dining: earn 800 miles per month (9,600 annually), worth $120 toward Delta flights.
Earn 2 SkyMiles per dollar at U.S. supermarkets with no annual spending cap. Pair with grocery gift card purchases to stack earning across multiple categories.
Spend $600 monthly on groceries: earn 1,200 miles per month (14,400 annually), worth $180 toward Delta flights.
Earn 1 SkyMile per dollar on all remaining eligible purchases. Every dollar spent builds toward your next Delta flight, with no minimum redemption thresholds.
Put $2,000 monthly in other spending on the card: earn 2,000 miles per month (24,000 annually), enough for a short-haul domestic one-way.
Up to
$380
in annual credits
$200 Delta flight credit
$200
Annual
Get a head-start on your next adventure, compliments of your Card. After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you can
$100 Delta Stays
$100
Annual
Get up to $100 back per year as a statement credit after using your Delta Gold Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on
$60 Uber One (6 mo)
$60
Annual
Get $9.99/month in statement credits for Uber One membership with auto-renewal for 6 months. Must register by 6/25/26.
$120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck
—
Annual
Automatic reimbursement for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees every 4 years. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck.
20% inflight purchases
$20
Get 20% back as a statement credit when you purchase food and beverages on board Delta flights with your card.
Combined Protection Value
$300
You're not responsible for unauthorized charges. Amex covers 100% of fraudulent transactions when reported promptly.
Reimbursement up to $300/item ($1K annually) when merchant won't accept return within 90 days. Premium cards only.
Get reimbursed for lost or damaged baggage contents with coverage for carry-on ($1,250) and checked bags ($500) in excess of airline reimbursement.
Secondary coverage for theft and collision damage on rentals up to 30 days. Skip rental counter insurance and save $15-40/day.
Get an extra year of warranty protection on purchases with original warranties of 5 years or less.
Protect your purchases against accidental damage or theft for 90 days after purchase when you use your Delta Gold card.
| Route / Property | Points | Book With | Cabin/Type | Value / Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US to South America in Economy | 10,000 | — | economy | south_america |
| US to Canada in Economy | 10,300 | — | economy | united_states |
| US to Hawaii in Economy | 10,900 | — | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in First Class | 12,500 | — | first | united_states |
| US to Europe in Economy | 23,000 | — | economy | europe |
| Intra-European Economy on Partners | 10,000 | — | economy | europe |
| Intra-European Business on Partners | 25,000 | — | business | europe |
| Middle East to Europe Business Class | 42,500 | — | business | europe |
| Within Asia Business on Korean Air | 15,000 | — | business | asia |
| Asia to Oceania Business Class | 65,000 | — | business | australia_nz |
| LATAM Short-Haul Economy in South America | 6,400 | — | economy | south_america |
| Delta Flash Sales to Europe | 34,000 | — | economy | europe |
| Hawaiian Inter-Island Economy | 7,500 | — | economy | united_states |
The Delta SkyMiles Gold hits the value sweet spot for casual Delta flyers who check bags. Free first checked bag for you plus 8 companions saves $280+ on just 2 round trips with a travel partner, more than covering the $150 annual fee. The $200 flight credit at $10K spend and $100 Delta Stays credit add further offset. Compared to the $350 Platinum (companion certificate, status boost) or $650 Reserve (Sky Club access), the Gold delivers the best return per dollar of annual fee.
With its waived first-year fee, the Delta SkyMiles Gold card suits occasional solo Delta travelers, while frequent flyers or those with companions typically find more value in the Platinum or Reserve cards.
The Delta SkyMiles Gold card has a $150 annual fee that’s waived the first year. This is the primary reason to choose it over Delta’s Platinum or Reserve cards, which generally offer higher overall value. If you plan to fly Delta only once in the next year, will be traveling alone, and want to avoid an annual fee, the Gold card can be a good option. However, if you fly Delta more than once a year or often travel with a companion, the companion certificate and other perks of the Platinum or Reserve cards typically make one of those choices more valuable.
If you fly Delta only once a year, this card might be a decent option. However, if you travel with a companion or fly Delta more frequently, the Reserve or Platinum cards are likely to offer more value despite their higher annual fees.
- The Gold card offers a 50,000 (current special 70,000)-mile sign-up bonus after spending $2,000 in the first six months, making it an easy way to earn Delta miles for free flights.
- American Express allows only one sign-up bonus per card per lifetime, and the bonus for this card can go as high as 80,000 miles. If you’re not in a rush to collect Delta miles, you might wait for a higher offer.
- The advertised $200 flight credit requires $10,000 in annual spending, which may not appeal to everyone.
You receive $100 in Delta Stay credits annually, which helps offset the $150 annual fee (starting in the second year). Other perks include:
- 15% discount on award travel
- 20% off in-flight purchases
- Zone 5 priority boarding
- One free checked bag
- $50 off flights (per 5,000 miles redeemed) when you use Pay with Miles
This card may not be ideal if:
- You plan to fly Delta only this year and have no loyalty to the airline afterward. Once the first-year fee waiver ends, the card’s limited benefits may not justify the $150 annual fee.
- You regularly fly Delta and would gain more from the better perks offered by the Platinum or Reserve cards.
- You’d prefer to wait for an elevated sign-up bonus (it has gone up to 90,000 points in the past).
**Delta is a good point system for both domestic and international flights.**
- Delta offers many cards, making initial collection relatively easy. But the Amex 1/7 Rule limits that ability over time.
- Delta is part of the Amex partner reward system and is a decent transfer value.
- We save Delta points for specific flights, perhaps direct domestic or best value international.
- We use easier-to-collect point systems such as Southwest and American ahead of Delta.
Delta offers a family of personal co-branded cards, each designed to match different travel patterns and preferences:
- **Delta SkyMiles Gold Card**($150 annual fee, waived first year)
Credit Utilization (60%)
Excludes earning value, lounge access, insurance, and elite status
Total Value Captured
$228
Annual Fee
-$150
Net Annual Value
+$78
| $0 |
You can find Delta awards for as little as 4,200 miles. If you have a Delta co-branded credit card, you get a 15% discount, bringing some flights down to 3,570 miles. Taxes are usually low as well, often just $5.60 for a one-way domestic ticket.
The [Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business](https://pointsnav.com/credit-cards/delta-skymiles-reserve-business) card has the highest regular signup bonus. You can earn 80,000 SkyMiles after spending $10,000 in the first six months. You’ll also earn at least 10,000 miles from that spend. Delta has offered elevated 100,000-mile bonuses in the past.
You can access Sky Clubs with Diamond Medallion status or by flying in a premium cabin when you hold Gold or Platinum status. Certain cards also provide access, including the Delta Reserve (personal and business) and the Amex Platinum ( [personal](https://pointsnav.com/credit-cards/american-express-platinum-personal) and [business](https://pointsnav.com/credit-cards/american-express-platinum-business)).
Log in to your Delta SkyMiles account to see your mileage balance. On the website, your name and miles appear at the top right. In the app, tap “Account” to view your balance. If you don’t have a SkyMiles account, you won’t have any Delta miles yet.
Yes. You can request mileage credit after you've flown, even if you didn't have a SkyMiles account at the time. Log in and visit the [Request Mileage Credit page](https://www.delta.com/myskymiles/request-mileage-credit). As long as your flight was at least 7 days ago and within the last 9 months, you can receive credit.
CNN review highlighting baggage savings math showing 2 round trips with companion and checked bags saves $280, exceeding the $150 annual fee. Details insurance limits: purchase protection $1,000/item, baggage insurance $1,250 carry-on and $500 checked.
Comprehensive TPG review rating the Delta Gold 4/5 stars. Covers the up to 90,000 mile welcome offer, $200 flight credit after $10K spend, TakeOff 15 award discount, free checked bags for cardholder plus 8 companions, and comparison with Delta Platinum and Reserve.
Bankrate review analyzing the Delta Gold's value proposition for casual Delta flyers. Covers the $200 flight credit, free checked bags, 2X earning on dining and groceries, and whether the $150 annual fee is justified.
US News rates the Delta Gold 3.9/5 stars. Analysis covers the tiered 90,000 mile welcome offer, $0 intro annual fee, free checked bags, and comparison with other mid-tier airline cards.
NerdWallet comparison of all 4 Delta personal cards (Blue, Gold, Platinum, Reserve) helping readers decide which tier matches their travel frequency. Covers earn rates, free bags, companion certificates, and Sky Club access across the Delta card family.
WalletHub aggregated review with editor score 3.4/5 and user rating 3.7/5. Includes community feedback on real-world benefit usage, bag savings, and comparison with competing airline cards.
CreditKarma review covering the Delta Gold's earn rates, travel benefits, and suitability for occasional Delta flyers. Includes user reviews and approval odds information.
Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights) review of the Delta Gold focused on how to maximize SkyMiles value through deal alerts and smart redemptions. Covers bag savings, priority boarding, and the TakeOff 15 award discount.
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Get reimbursed for meals, hotel, and essentials when your travel is delayed 6+ hours. Up to 2 claims per year.
- Best for occasional Delta flyers (once per year)
- 50,000 (current special 70,000) mile sign-up bonus with $2,000 spend in first 6 months
- Basic benefits include free first checked bag and priority boarding
The Gold card occupies the middle position in Delta's card lineup, offering more benefits than the no-annual-fee Blue card but fewer perks than the premium options. Here's how it compares to Delta's other offerings:
- **Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card**serves as the flagship product with a $650 annual fee. This premium option targets loyal Delta customers who fly multiple times yearly. It features the highest sign-up bonus (70,000 miles) and premium benefits including:
- First-class companion certificate
- Complimentary Sky Club access
- Multiple statement credits to offset the annual fee
- **Delta SkyMiles Platinum Card**bridges the gap between Gold and Reserve with a $350 annual fee and 60,000 mile sign-up bonus. This card delivers excellent value for annual Delta flyers, particularly those traveling with companions, thanks to its:
- Annual companion certificate (main cabin)
- Enhanced earning rates on Delta purchases
- Additional travel benefits beyond those offered by the Gold card
- **Delta SkyMiles Blue Card** represents the entry-level option with no annual fee but offers minimal value with just a 10,000 mile bonus and few meaningful perks. We rarely recommend this card due to its limited benefits.
For most travelers, the Gold card represents a solid entry point into the Delta ecosystem, especially during the first year when the annual fee is waived. However, those who fly Delta more than once annually should carefully consider whether the Platinum or Reserve cards might deliver better long-term value despite their higher annual fees.
I actually like flying Delta overall, but I tend to lean toward Southwest for domestic trips because of the companion pass and free luggage. I got this card to give Delta a chance without too much commitment. It let me pick up a bunch of Delta points with no annual fee for the first year.
I used those points to fly to San Diego to visit my brother, checked my first bag free, and took full advantage of priority boarding. Because my return flight was so early, I also used the $100 Delta Stay Credit for a hotel with shuttle service, which made the morning much easier.
Instead of canceling the card when the $150 annual fee approached, I upgraded to the Platinum to get the companion pass without waiting a full year to earn it (you can read more in my Delta Platinum Personal write up).
I don’t think this card is for everyone, but if you want to test an Amex Delta card with minimal commitment, this is the best one to start with.
Get reimbursed for meals, hotel, and essentials when your travel is delayed 6+ hours. Up to 2 claims per year.
- Best for occasional Delta flyers (once per year)
- 50,000 (current special 70,000) mile sign-up bonus with $2,000 spend in first 6 months
- Basic benefits include free first checked bag and priority boarding
The Gold card occupies the middle position in Delta's card lineup, offering more benefits than the no-annual-fee Blue card but fewer perks than the premium options. Here's how it compares to Delta's other offerings:
- **Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card**serves as the flagship product with a $650 annual fee. This premium option targets loyal Delta customers who fly multiple times yearly. It features the highest sign-up bonus (70,000 miles) and premium benefits including:
- First-class companion certificate
- Complimentary Sky Club access
- Multiple statement credits to offset the annual fee
- **Delta SkyMiles Platinum Card**bridges the gap between Gold and Reserve with a $350 annual fee and 60,000 mile sign-up bonus. This card delivers excellent value for annual Delta flyers, particularly those traveling with companions, thanks to its:
- Annual companion certificate (main cabin)
- Enhanced earning rates on Delta purchases
- Additional travel benefits beyond those offered by the Gold card
- **Delta SkyMiles Blue Card** represents the entry-level option with no annual fee but offers minimal value with just a 10,000 mile bonus and few meaningful perks. We rarely recommend this card due to its limited benefits.
For most travelers, the Gold card represents a solid entry point into the Delta ecosystem, especially during the first year when the annual fee is waived. However, those who fly Delta more than once annually should carefully consider whether the Platinum or Reserve cards might deliver better long-term value despite their higher annual fees.
I actually like flying Delta overall, but I tend to lean toward Southwest for domestic trips because of the companion pass and free luggage. I got this card to give Delta a chance without too much commitment. It let me pick up a bunch of Delta points with no annual fee for the first year.
I used those points to fly to San Diego to visit my brother, checked my first bag free, and took full advantage of priority boarding. Because my return flight was so early, I also used the $100 Delta Stay Credit for a hotel with shuttle service, which made the morning much easier.
Instead of canceling the card when the $150 annual fee approached, I upgraded to the Platinum to get the companion pass without waiting a full year to earn it (you can read more in my Delta Platinum Personal write up).
I don’t think this card is for everyone, but if you want to test an Amex Delta card with minimal commitment, this is the best one to start with.
Get reimbursed for meals, hotel, and essentials when your travel is delayed 6+ hours. Up to 2 claims per year.
- Best for occasional Delta flyers (once per year)
- 50,000 (current special 70,000) mile sign-up bonus with $2,000 spend in first 6 months
- Basic benefits include free first checked bag and priority boarding
The Gold card occupies the middle position in Delta's card lineup, offering more benefits than the no-annual-fee Blue card but fewer perks than the premium options. Here's how it compares to Delta's other offerings:
- **Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card**serves as the flagship product with a $650 annual fee. This premium option targets loyal Delta customers who fly multiple times yearly. It features the highest sign-up bonus (70,000 miles) and premium benefits including:
- First-class companion certificate
- Complimentary Sky Club access
- Multiple statement credits to offset the annual fee
- **Delta SkyMiles Platinum Card**bridges the gap between Gold and Reserve with a $350 annual fee and 60,000 mile sign-up bonus. This card delivers excellent value for annual Delta flyers, particularly those traveling with companions, thanks to its:
- Annual companion certificate (main cabin)
- Enhanced earning rates on Delta purchases
- Additional travel benefits beyond those offered by the Gold card
- **Delta SkyMiles Blue Card** represents the entry-level option with no annual fee but offers minimal value with just a 10,000 mile bonus and few meaningful perks. We rarely recommend this card due to its limited benefits.
For most travelers, the Gold card represents a solid entry point into the Delta ecosystem, especially during the first year when the annual fee is waived. However, those who fly Delta more than once annually should carefully consider whether the Platinum or Reserve cards might deliver better long-term value despite their higher annual fees.
I actually like flying Delta overall, but I tend to lean toward Southwest for domestic trips because of the companion pass and free luggage. I got this card to give Delta a chance without too much commitment. It let me pick up a bunch of Delta points with no annual fee for the first year.
I used those points to fly to San Diego to visit my brother, checked my first bag free, and took full advantage of priority boarding. Because my return flight was so early, I also used the $100 Delta Stay Credit for a hotel with shuttle service, which made the morning much easier.
Instead of canceling the card when the $150 annual fee approached, I upgraded to the Platinum to get the companion pass without waiting a full year to earn it (you can read more in my Delta Platinum Personal write up).
I don’t think this card is for everyone, but if you want to test an Amex Delta card with minimal commitment, this is the best one to start with.
