7 Credit Cards That Pay for Your TSA PreCheck – Save Money on Every Trip

Traveling can be stressful, especially when you’re faced with long security lines at the airport. For frequent flyers, TSA PreCheck offers a fast‑track experience, but the $85 annual fee can feel like an added burden. Fortunately, several major credit cards include a statement credit that covers this cost, effectively turning the fee into a free perk. In this article we’ll explore the top credit cards that cover TSA PreCheck, explain how the reimbursement process works, and share strategies to make the most of these benefits.

Understanding which card aligns with your spending habits and travel frequency is essential. While the allure of a free TSA PreCheck is strong, each card comes with its own set of requirements, annual fees, and additional travel perks. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped to choose a card that not only reimburses the TSA PreCheck fee but also enhances your overall travel experience.

Top Credit Cards That Offer TSA PreCheck Reimbursement

Below is a curated list of credit cards that provide an annual statement credit for TSA PreCheck (or Global Entry). These cards were selected based on the ease of the reimbursement process, overall travel benefits, and the value they deliver relative to their annual fees.

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
• American Express® Gold Card
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard®
• U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite® Card
• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
• Discover it® Miles

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

This popular travel rewards card offers a $50 annual airline fee credit, but its real strength lies in the flexibility to claim a $85 TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit once per statement year. To qualify, you must have an active account and the credit is automatically applied after you pay the TSA fee with the card. The card’s 2X points on travel and dining help offset its $95 annual fee.

American Express® Gold Card

The Amex Gold card provides a $100 airline fee credit, which can be allocated to TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. Cardholders must enroll the credit through the Amex portal each year. In addition to the 4X points at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets, the card’s $250 annual fee is balanced by its extensive dining rewards and the travel credit.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Capital One’s flagship travel card grants a straightforward $100 statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry every four years. The credit is automatically applied when you charge the fee to the card. With a flat 2X miles on every purchase and a $95 annual fee, the Venture card is a simple, high‑value option for travelers who want a hassle‑free reimbursement.

Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard®

Citi’s airline co‑branded card offers a $75 annual airline credit, which can be used toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fees. The card also provides 2X miles on American Airlines purchases and a free first checked bag. The $99 annual fee is offset by the combination of flight‑related perks and the security‑clearance credit.

U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite® Card

Altitude Reserve offers a $100 credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry each year, automatically applied when the fee is charged. The card’s 3X points on travel and mobile wallet purchases, along with a $400 annual travel credit, make the $395 annual fee worthwhile for high‑spending travelers.

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

This card delivers a $100 annual travel credit that can be used for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. The credit is automatically applied after the fee is charged. With 2X points on travel and dining, and a $95 annual fee, the Premium Rewards card offers a balanced blend of everyday rewards and travel benefits.

Discover it® Miles

Discover’s miles card provides a $50 statement credit toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry every 12 months, but the credit can be combined with the annual $85 fee if you pay half with Discover and half with another reimbursing card. Although the credit is modest, the card’s 1.5X miles on all purchases and no annual fee make it an attractive supplemental option.

How the TSA PreCheck Reimbursement Works

Each credit card has a slightly different mechanism for providing the TSA PreCheck credit, but the general steps are similar. Understanding these steps helps you avoid missed credits or unnecessary delays.

Step‑by‑Step Process

• Enroll in TSA PreCheck: Complete the online application, schedule an appointment at an enrollment center, and pay the $85 fee using the credit card that offers the credit.
• Payment Confirmation: Ensure the transaction appears on your statement as “TSA PreCheck” or “Global Entry” to avoid confusion.
• Automatic Credit: Many cards, such as the Capital One Venture, automatically apply the credit within 30‑45 days after the charge appears.
• Manual Claim: Some cards, like the American Express Gold, require you to log into the card’s portal and select the credit from a list of eligible expenses.
• Verification: The card issuer may request a receipt or a copy of the TSA confirmation email; keep these documents handy.
• Statement Adjustment: Once approved, the credit will appear as a negative line item on your next statement, effectively offsetting the $85 fee.

It’s essential to read each card’s specific terms. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred only allows one TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit per statement year, regardless of the number of cards you hold under the same account.

Tips for Maximizing Your TSA PreCheck Credit Card Benefits

Getting the credit is just the beginning. Below are actionable strategies to ensure you extract the maximum value from your travel‑oriented credit cards.

Synchronize Your Card Usage with Travel Expenses

Whenever you book flights, hotels, or rental cars, use the card that also offers the TSA PreCheck credit. This creates a consolidated spending pattern that can help you reach bonus thresholds faster, especially on cards that require a minimum spend to earn sign‑up bonuses.

Combine Multiple Credits Wisely

If you have more than one card that reimburses TSA PreCheck, consider splitting the fee between them. For instance, you could charge $50 to a card with a $50 credit and the remaining $35 to another card that offers a $75 credit. This approach ensures you don’t waste excess credit and can apply the remainder toward other travel expenses.

Leverage Related Travel Perks

Many of the cards listed also provide complimentary lounge access, airline fee credits, or free checked bags. Pair the TSA PreCheck credit with these benefits to create a seamless, low‑cost travel experience. For example, the Altitude Reserve’s $400 travel credit can be used for airline‑related purchases while the TSA PreCheck credit removes the security line hassle.

Stay Informed About Credit Card Policy Changes

Credit card issuers occasionally update their benefits. Subscribe to the issuer’s email updates or monitor the how to protect your credit card from skimmers guide for security tips that often accompany benefit changes.

Use Digital Wallets for Seamless Payments

Paying with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or other mobile wallets can streamline the checkout process at enrollment centers that accept contactless payments. Cards that are Apple Pay compatible often provide faster transaction records, making it easier for issuers to identify the TSA PreCheck charge.

Monitor Your Statements Regularly

Set up alerts for any transaction labeled “TSA PreCheck” or “Global Entry.” This ensures you notice the credit as soon as it’s posted and can address any discrepancies before the billing cycle ends.

Alternative Ways to Speed Through Security Without a Credit Card Credit

While credit card reimbursements are convenient, they are not the only path to expedited security screening. Below are a few alternatives that travelers can consider.

Enroll Directly in Global Entry

Global Entry costs $100 for a five‑year membership and includes TSA PreCheck. If you travel internationally frequently, the cost per year drops to $20, making it a cost‑effective alternative. Some cards also reimburse Global Entry fees, so check your card’s policy before enrolling.

Use Airline Elite Status

Many airlines grant TSA PreCheck eligibility to their elite members as a perk. If you hold frequent‑flyer status with a major carrier, verify whether you already qualify for the fast lane.

Leverage Airport‑Specific Fast Lanes

Some airports offer dedicated “fast‑track” lanes for a fee, separate from TSA PreCheck. While not covered by credit cards, these options can be useful for occasional travelers who do not wish to commit to an annual membership.

In summary, the combination of a suitable credit card and strategic usage can turn the TSA PreCheck fee into a negligible expense while simultaneously enhancing your overall travel experience. By selecting a card that aligns with your spending habits, staying aware of each card’s reimbursement process, and employing the tips above, you’ll enjoy smoother security lines and keep more of your hard‑earned money in your pocket.