TSA PreCheck membership still worth the cost despite airport screening changes.

Despite changes in airport security, experts say paid services like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry still offer compelling benefits, such as dedicated screening lanes and faster processing times. Enrollment and renewal fees vary depending on the service provider, with Telos charging $85 for enrollment and $70 for renewal, while Clear charges $77.95 for enrollment and $68.95 for renewal.

Despite recent changes in airport security, services like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry continue to provide significant advantages, such as dedicated screening lanes and faster processing times. Enrollment and renewal fees vary, with Telos charging $85 for enrollment and $70 for renewal, while Clear charges $77.95 for enrollment and $68.95 for renewal. Fortunately, several travel credit cards offer statement credits to cover these fees, potentially allowing frequent travelers to enjoy these benefits at no additional cost.

One of the most effective ways to secure TSA PreCheck for free is by obtaining a credit card that reimburses the application or renewal fee. Numerous credit cards, ranging from those with no annual fee to premium cards, offer this benefit. For instance, the Arvest Visa Signature® Credit Card, available to consumers in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, reimburses up to $100 for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees [1]. Similarly, the HSBC Premier Credit Card, available to U.S.-based HSBC Premier checking account holders, offers a $85 statement credit every five years to reimburse TSA PreCheck application fees. Additionally, several low-annual-fee credit cards, such as the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card, Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, and IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, provide a statement credit for TSA PreCheck application or renewal fees [1].

For those who prefer not to use credit cards, some loyalty programs allow members to redeem points or miles to cover the application fee. United MileagePlus members can redeem 11,000 miles to cover the cost of TSA PreCheck, while Marriott Bonvoy members need 25,000 points. However, these redemptions often provide a poor value, as the points are worth less than the cost of the application fee [1].

Military members also have access to TSA PreCheck for free. Active duty service members, reservists, National Guard members, cadets, and midshipmen of various military academies, as well as Department of Defense civilian employees, can enroll in TSA PreCheck without paying the application fee [1].

While TSA PreCheck offers many benefits, it is essential to consider whether Global Entry might be more suitable for your travel needs. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits and provides additional advantages for international travelers. However, enrollment sites and interview availability for Global Entry can be more limited compared to TSA PreCheck [1].

In conclusion, leveraging travel credit cards can significantly reduce the cost of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, making these services more accessible to frequent travelers. By carefully selecting a credit card with the appropriate benefits, travelers can enjoy faster processing times and dedicated screening lanes without incurring additional fees.

References:
[1] https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/how-to-get-tsa-precheck-free