Current Welcome Bonus & Value
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card from American Express offers a tiered welcome bonus:
- Earn 100,000 Delta Miles after spending $6,000 in purchases in the first 6 months.
- Earn an additional 25,000 Delta Miles after spending an additional $3,000 in purchases in the first 6 months.
This combined bonus totals 125,000 Delta Miles, which is estimated to be worth approximately $975.
Minimum Spend to Earn It
To earn the full 125,000 Delta Miles welcome bonus, you must make a total of $9,000 in purchases within the first 6 months (180 days) of account opening. This is broken down into two tiers: $6,000 for the initial 100,000 miles, and an additional $3,000 for the extra 25,000 miles.
Who's Eligible
American Express has specific application rules that impact eligibility for the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card's welcome bonus:
- Once Per Lifetime: The welcome bonus for this card product is generally available only once per lifetime. If you have ever held the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card before, you may not be eligible for the bonus again. American Express may present a 'pop-up' warning during the application process if you are ineligible.
- American Express Application Limits: American Express typically limits new credit card approvals to approximately:
- 1 credit card per 5 days.
- 2 credit cards per 90 days.
While a specific credit score floor is not provided, premium American Express cards like the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card generally require applicants to have excellent credit for approval.
Is It Worth It?
Deciding if the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card is worth it depends on your travel habits and churning strategy. Here's a breakdown:
Pros:
- Substantial Welcome Bonus: 125,000 Delta Miles is a significant boost to your SkyMiles balance, valued at nearly $1,000.
- Premium Delta Benefits: The card offers valuable perks for Delta flyers, including a second checked bag free.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Ideal for international travel.
Cons:
- High Annual Fee: The card carries a $650 annual fee, which must be factored into the overall value proposition.
- Once Per Lifetime Rule: This limits your ability to earn the bonus again in the future, requiring careful timing.
- High Minimum Spend: A $9,000 spend requirement in 6 months is substantial and requires careful planning.
For frequent Delta travelers who can maximize the card's benefits and easily meet the minimum spend, the initial welcome bonus can significantly offset the annual fee in the first year. However, for those who don't fly Delta often, the high annual fee and once-per-lifetime restriction might make other cards more appealing.
How to Apply
To apply for the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card, visit the American Express website or use a direct application link. Ensure you review the terms and conditions of the offer carefully before submitting your application. Remember to check for any pop-up warnings regarding bonus eligibility.
Alternatives
If the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card isn't the right fit, or if you've already received its bonus, consider these related American Express cards:
- Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Card from American Express
- Delta SkyMiles® Blue Card
- Marriott Bonvoy Bevy Credit Card
- Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
- Hilton Honors Aspire Card
- Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card