Southwest Airlines is offering a new way for its customers to earn travel rewards with the launch of the Rapid Rewards® Debit Card. Developed in partnership with Galileo Financial Technologies, this Visa debit card allows users to seamlessly earn Rapid Rewards points on everyday purchases. From groceries to gas, each transaction now contributes to rewards that can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and more.
The Rapid Rewards Debit Card caters to frequent travelers and everyday spenders alike by embedding the benefits of Southwest’s loyalty program into a simple, widely used payment method. Whether making routine purchases or planning a trip, customers can now accumulate points conveniently with every swipe of their card.
Features Designed for Travelers
Southwest’s new debit card comes with a range of attractive benefits. Cardholders earn one point for every $2 spent on general purchases and one point per $1 spent on Southwest Airlines® purchases, dining, subscriptions, and utilities. Additional perks include a welcome bonus of 2,500 Rapid Rewards points after completing two recurring deposits and spending $100 within the first 90 days.
Other key features include:
- Annual Companion Pass® Bonus: Earn 7,500 Companion Pass points each year.
- Anniversary Rewards: Receive up to 7,500 bonus points annually.
- Discounts and Credits: Cardholders enjoy a $35 Southwest credit and a 20% off promotion code each year.
- No Fees: The card has no credit check requirements for application, no monthly fees if a $2,500 average monthly balance is maintained, and no fees for ATM withdrawals within the Cirrus network.
"Our goal has always been to enhance the Rapid Rewards program and provide more ways for customers to earn points", said Tony Roach, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer and Brand Officer at Southwest Airlines. "With more than 90% of Americans using debit cards, extending our award-winning loyalty program to include a debit card was a natural evolution. The Rapid Rewards Debit Card offers flexibility for everyone – whether it’s a college student booking a flight to support their team, a parent gifting a graduate, or a savvy customer looking to make the most of their everyday spending."
No Expiring Points or Blackout Dates
One standout feature of the Rapid Rewards Debit Card is that points never expire. Additionally, there are no blackout dates, ensuring maximum flexibility for travelers. Points can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, rental cars, and other vacation options.
The card benefits are further enhanced by Southwest Airlines’ broader loyalty program, which includes perks like free inflight Wi-Fi – made possible through a partnership with T-Mobile® – and tiered program benefits.
A Natural Partnership
Southwest collaborated with Galileo Financial Technologies to bring this new debit card to fruition. Bill Kennedy, Interim CEO and CFO at Galileo, emphasized the seamless integration of the payment platform with Southwest’s loyalty program. "Partnering with Southwest Airlines to launch this debit program shows how rapidly Galileo’s platform can innovate, enabling Southwest to offer seamless payments and enhance customer engagement", said Kennedy.
The Rapid Rewards Debit Card is issued by Sunrise Banks N.A., a member of the FDIC, and uses Visa as its payment network.
Southwest Airlines: A Commitment to Innovation
Founded in 1971, Southwest Airlines has consistently sought to enhance the travel experience for its customers. With operations at 117 airports across 11 countries, the airline has built a reputation for affordability, reliability, and exceptional customer service. The launch of its Rapid Rewards Debit Card represents another step in providing value and convenience to its passengers.
As Southwest Airlines continues to innovate, the Rapid Rewards Debit Card offers an easy way for customers to earn rewards while handling everyday expenses, further illustrating its dedication to creating a seamless and rewarding travel experience.
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