Q&A: What credit score do you need for a Southwest® Airlines credit card?

Answer: Southwest Airlines partners with Chase to offer a range of credit cards, each with its own set of perks. Generally speaking, to get approved for a Southwest Airlines credit card, you’ll likely need a good to excellent credit score. This usually translates to a score in the ballpark of the upper 600s to the 700s and beyond. The more premium the card (with more perks and benefits), the higher the credit score you might need.

For instance, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card might have slightly more lenient requirements compared to the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card, which offers more premium benefits and might require a higher score for approval.

But here’s the deal: your credit score isn’t the only factor in the mix. Chase, like other card issuers, will also take a gander at other parts of your financial profile. This includes your income, employment status, overall debt, and your credit history. They’re trying to get a full picture of how risky or safe it might be to lend to you.

If you’re thinking about applying, it’s a smart move to first check out your credit report. Make sure everything’s accurate and get a feel for where you stand. Remember, each credit card application results in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can give your score a tiny dip. So, it’s best to apply when you’re feeling confident about your chances.