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American AAdvantage has two banks issuing credit cards to members in the U.S.: Citibank and Barclaycard. Citibank advertises online, through direct mail, and in American’s club lounges. Barclaycard advertises in the airport and on flights.
When the Barclaycard version launched for new applications in December the bonus was just 40,000 miles. (There’s also been a 500 mile bonus for applying using an application received inflight, awarded whether you’re approved for the card or not.)
Three months ago they bumped the signup bonus to 50,000 miles.
Now the card has a limited-time offer of 60,000 miles. Note that their bonuses don’t require minimum spend, just first purchase.
Spending $25,000 on a Barclaycard-issued American AAdvantage credit card in a year also earns 3000 elite qualifying dollars towards status qualification.
Unlike the Citibank card which has a $0 annual fee the first year, then $95, the annual fee on the Barclaycard product isn’t waived the first year.
With either card you get one free checked bag and preferred boarding. I like both cards for the signup bonus and to keep for preferred boarding (you can bring a full sized carry on bag onboard even on a basic economy fare, and either way avoid having to gate check your bag) and the free checked bags.
Of course since the cards are offered by different issuers, you can get both.
Do you know if there are any limitations on getting the bonus if you previously have had this card?
From the terms and conditions for the card:
“This one-time AAdvantage® bonus mileage offer is valid for first-time cardmembers with new accounts only. Existing cardmembers, existing accounts, and previous cardmembers with accounts closed in the past 24 months may not be eligible for this offer. This is a limited-time offer and will no longer be available after November 30, 2017.”
I think it is banks not bags
To me it’s a no-brainer. 60,000 points for $95. I’ve already got the Citi AA card, so I’m sure I’ll keep this 6 months or a year and then drop it before the next $95 is due. Applying was a snap and was literally approved in less than 10 seconds.
Agree with Donald. This one was super easy. Got get um yall
Just emailed (got my card in the mail yesterday and haven’t even used it). Asked for the extra 10K and they agreed! Just have to pay the $95 and use the card ONCE……
I am approved for the 50k offer, but haven’t received the card yet. I called to see if I could get the extra 10k and they told me to buzz off. I messaged them online and they said, “Yes!”. YMMV.
just applied through your link and got approved. My confusion is if this card really comes with Global Entry credit.
Can a qualifying person apply for both and get 120,000 miles? Or is it a once in a lifetime 60,000 miles?