How to Get TSA PreCheck Through a Credit Card Benefit
This guide is for frequent travelers looking to save money and hassle by using their travel credit card benefits to get TSA PreCheck. We break down which cards offer this perk, how to claim it, and what you need to know before applying.
TSA PreCheck Fee
$78 (5 years)
Common Reimbursement Time
2-8 weeks
Card Types Eligible
Premium and travel rewards
Also Works For
Global Entry (usually)
Maximize Your Card Benefits
Skip the PreCheck Fee Using Your Credit Card Perk
You don’t have to pay for TSA PreCheck out of pocket—many premium and travel credit cards will cover the cost, but you have to claim it the right way. Here’s how to use this often-overlooked benefit for smoother airport security, every time.
How to Claim TSA PreCheck Through a Credit Card
Not sure where or how to leverage your credit card’s PreCheck perk? Here’s how:
Check Your Card’s Benefits
Look for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry reimbursement in your card’s benefits guide.
Most premium cards and many travel rewards cards (like Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige) provide this credit once every 4 or 5 years.
Apply for TSA PreCheck
Submit your application and pay the fee online or at an enrollment center.
Use your eligible credit card as the payment method; this is required for reimbursement.
Monitor for a Statement Credit
Wait for the credit to appear on your statement.
Most issuers post the statement credit within 2-8 weeks. Check your next couple of billing cycles.
Credit Card vs Paying Out-of-Pocket for TSA PreCheck
| Credit Card Benefit | Paying Cash | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cost to You | $0 (after credit) | $78 (or $70 for renewal, paid directly by you) or more at some locations if add-on services purchased with cash/ATM withdrawal fees, etc. apply at the desk. Always check the official application site for the fee on the day you apply. Benefit covers only the base application charge. If you purchase anything else (expedite, parking, or upgrades), those are not reimbursed.; can be paid at time of application at the official site by AMEX, Mastercard, Visa debit or credit, PreCheck-approved prepaid card* or at partner enrollment centers in-person.* (valid at most main offices—see TTP.gov for site list). Many PreCheck appointments are co-located with Global Entry and can be booked online in most cities. Check your TTP Portal dashboard for local openings. |
| Who’s Eligible? | Cardholder (and often authorized users) | Any U.S. citizen or LPR with payment method—not dependent on having a card benefit credit at all; anyone can apply and pay online or in person (walk-in rare, appointment best). Children under 12 can join a parent’s PreCheck without a separate application/fee; minors ages 13+ must apply with their own payment. |
| How to Use | Apply online or in-person, pay with the eligible card, wait for automatic reimbursement post on statement. | Apply and pay directly with cash, debit, or credit card. No reimbursement: you pay the full fee. Save your receipt for expense or tax purposes, if relevant. |
Who Usually Gets the Benefit?
Typically Eligible
- Primary cardholder
- Authorized users (select cards)
- Employee cards (business cards)
Usually Not Eligible
- Supplementary cards (with restrictions)
- Joint account holders (most issuers do not split the credit)
- Minor children (must apply and pay fee to receive credit)
TSA PreCheck Credit: Myth vs. Fact
Myth
Every credit card with an annual fee offers TSA PreCheck reimbursement.
Fact
Only select premium, travel, and some business cards offer this benefit.
Myth
You can get reimbursed every year.
Fact
The benefit typically renews every four or five years per account.
Myth
You must pay for PreCheck—Global Entry isn’t included.
Fact
Most cards offer a credit for either program, but only one fee per cycle.
FAQ
TSA PreCheck Credit Card FAQ
How long do I wait for the credit to show up?
Plan for 2 to 8 weeks after payment; check your statement online.
Does the benefit cover both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck?
Yes, but only for one program per cycle. Global Entry also gives you PreCheck.
Can authorized users get the benefit?
Some cards allow this; check your card’s specific terms.
What happens if my PreCheck application is denied?
The statement credit will still apply as long as you paid the fee with your eligible card.
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Ready to Speed Up Your Security?
Check your credit card perks and apply for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry—then use programs like Global Entry Sooner to minimize interview wait times and start breezing through lines even faster.