Southwest Launches Rapid Rewards Debit Card

Southwest Airlines officially opened applications for its new Southwest Rapid Rewards® Debit Card this week, providing an alternative for travelers to earn Rapid Rewards points without using a credit card. The debit card, issued by Sunrise Banks, allows customers to earn points on everyday purchases and includes several Southwest-specific benefits, notably without requiring a credit check. To obtain the card, customers must open a Southwest Rapid Rewards checking account.

The Southwest Rapid Rewards Debit Card is positioned for individuals who prefer debit cards or may not be eligible for credit cards. New cardholders can receive a 2,500-point welcome bonus after completing two recurring direct deposits and spending $100 within the first 90 days of account opening. The card offers 1 point per dollar spent on eligible Southwest Airlines purchases and qualifying dining and subscription services, including cable, streaming, internet, phone, utilities, and insurance premiums. For all other eligible purchases, cardholders earn 1 point per $2 spent.

Beyond initial rewards, cardholders can earn an annual bonus based on their spending throughout the cardmember year. Spending between $5,000 and $9,999.99 earns 2,500 bonus points, while spending between $10,000 and $14,999.99 yields 5,000 bonus points. Those who spend $15,000 or more will receive 7,500 bonus points annually. All points accrued through the debit card, including the welcome bonus and annual spend bonuses, count towards earning a Companion Pass.

Additional perks for cardholders include 7,500 Companion Pass qualifying points each calendar year, which contribute directly to achieving Companion Pass status. Furthermore, cardholders will receive a 20% Southwest flight promotion code every January and an annual $35 statement credit towards in-flight purchases. The information regarding the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Debit Card was independently collected by The Points Guy and has not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.