Is the United Explorer Card subject to Chase 5/24?

Yes, the United Explorer Card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule. This means you generally won't be approved if you've opened 5 or more personal credit cards from any issuer in the last 24 months.

What credit score do I need for the United Explorer Card?

A good credit score is typically required for approval for the United Explorer Card. This generally translates to a FICO score of 670 or higher.

Can I get the United Explorer bonus twice?

You are not eligible for the welcome bonus if you have received a bonus for the United Explorer Card within the last 24 months. This is a once-per-24-month rule for the bonus.

What is the annual fee for the United Explorer Card?

The United Explorer Card has an annual fee of $150.

How much is the United Explorer bonus worth?

The welcome bonus of up to 85,000 United miles for the United Explorer Card has an estimated cash value of $955.

Does the United Explorer Card have foreign transaction fees?

No, the United Explorer Card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it a good option for international travel.

How long do I have to meet the minimum spend for the United Explorer Card?

You have 90 days (three months) from account opening to spend $3,000 on purchases to earn the primary portion of the welcome bonus.

United Explorer Card: Maximize Your 85,000 Miles Bonus

The United Explorer Card currently offers up to 85,000 United miles, valued at an estimated $955, after meeting a $3,000 minimum spend within 90 days. Eligibility requires a good credit score and adherence to Chase's 5/24 rule, plus not having received a bonus for this card in the last 24 months. It's a strong option for United flyers looking to boost their mileage balance, despite its $150 annual fee, offering significant value for those who can meet the specific bonus conditions and application rules. This offer is current as of June 2026.

Current Welcome Bonus & Value

The United Explorer Card offers a welcome bonus of up to 85,000 United miles, with an estimated cash value of $955. This bonus is structured as follows:

70,000 miles after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
An additional 10,000 miles after adding an authorized user to your account.
An additional 5,000 miles when using a United agent’s promotional code during application.

This offer is current as of June 2026.

Minimum Spend to Earn It

To earn the primary portion of the welcome bonus (70,000 miles), you must spend $3,000 on purchases within 90 days (three months) of account opening. This minimum spend requirement does not include balance transfers, cash advances, or fees.

Who's Eligible

Applying for the United Explorer Card requires careful consideration of several issuer-specific rules:

Chase 5/24 Rule: You will generally not be approved for this card if you have opened 5 or more personal credit cards (from any issuer) in the last 24 months. This rule is strictly enforced by Chase.
Bonus Eligibility: You are not eligible for the welcome bonus if you have received a bonus for the United Explorer Card within the last 24 months.
Credit Score: A good credit score is typically required for approval. This generally means a FICO score of 670 or higher, though approval is not guaranteed and depends on your overall credit profile.

Is It Worth It?

The United Explorer Card can be a valuable addition for United loyalists and those looking for a substantial mileage boost, but it comes with specific considerations.

Pros:

Significant Welcome Bonus: Up to 85,000 United miles offers substantial value for future travel.
Estimated Value: The bonus is estimated to be worth $955, providing a strong return on the annual fee.
No Foreign Transaction Fees: Ideal for international travelers, as you won't incur extra charges on purchases made abroad.
United Benefits: While specific benefits are not detailed here, United co-branded cards typically offer perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and United Club passes, enhancing the travel experience.

Cons:

Annual Fee: The card carries a $150 annual fee, which must be factored into its overall value.
Chase 5/24 Restriction: This rule can be a significant hurdle for active churners, limiting access if you've opened many cards recently.
Bonus Structure: Achieving the full 85,000 miles requires adding an authorized user and potentially using a promotional code, which might not be straightforward for all applicants.

How to Apply

To apply for the United Explorer Card, visit the official Chase website or a secure application link from a trusted source. Ensure you review all terms and conditions before submitting your application. It's advisable to check your Chase 5/24 status and credit score beforehand to gauge your eligibility.

Alternatives

If the United Explorer Card doesn't fit your strategy or you're looking for other options, consider these related cards:

Offers change frequently and may not be available to all applicants. Information is provided for research; verify terms on the issuer's site before applying. Chuuurning may not be compensated by issuers.

United Explorer — 85,000 miles bonus