United Business Card vs. United Club Business Card: Which One to Choose?
United Airlines offers two distinct business credit cards that, while similar in name, cater to different needs and preferences for frequent travelers. The mid-tier United℠ Business Card is an appealing option with a low annual fee, while the premium United Club℠ Business Card comes with a higher fee but offers a suite of valuable benefits for those who travel frequently with United.
In March, United revamped its entire lineup of credit cards, introducing new benefits, statement credits, and, as anticipated, increased annual fees. If you’re a business owner considering a United co-branded card, it’s essential to understand the differences between these two options to determine which card aligns best with your travel habits and business needs.
Both cards currently offer the same enticing welcome bonus of 100,000 bonus miles and 2,000 PQPs (Premier Qualifying Points) after spending $5,000 on eligible purchases within the first three months of account opening. According to TPG’s July 2025 valuations, these bonus miles are worth approximately $1,300, making this offer 25,000 bonus miles higher than the standard welcome offer typically available.
However, keep in mind that if you’ve received a welcome bonus for either card within the past 24 months, you will not be eligible for the current offer. Additionally, both cards are subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule, which means that if you have opened five or more credit cards in the past 24 months, your application may be declined.
When it comes to travel perks, the United Business Card provides some excellent benefits, including a free first checked bag for both the cardholder and one companion on United flights, which can save you up to $160 round-trip. Cardholders also enjoy priority boarding and receive two one-time United Club passes annually. However, these passes can only be used by the primary cardholder, an authorized user, or a guest traveling with them.
Moreover, cardholders who also have a personal United card earn an additional 5,000 bonus miles each year, and those making five eligible United flight purchases of $100 or more in a calendar year will receive $125 in United TravelBank cash.
On the other hand, the United Club Business Card takes benefits up a notch by offering a free first and second checked bag for both the cardholder and a companion on the same reservation, potentially saving up to $360 round-trip. This card also grants access to United Premier Access services, which expedite check-in, security screening, and boarding.
The standout feature of the United Club Business Card is its United Club membership, which provides access to over 45 United Club locations worldwide for the cardholder and eligible travel companions, including one adult guest and dependent children. Additionally, after reaching Premier Gold status or spending $50,000 annually with the card, cardholders can qualify for the United Club All Access membership, which expands guest privileges.
Both cards also offer opportunities to earn Premier elite status with United. The United Business Card allows you to earn 1 PQP for every $20 spent, with a maximum of 4,000 PQPs per calendar year. In contrast, the United Club Business Card earns 1 PQP for every $15 spent, with the potential to earn up to 28,000 PQPs annually.
When it comes to earning miles, the United Business Card offers bonus miles across various categories, including dining, gas, office supply stores, and commuting purchases, at a rate of 2 miles per dollar. This can be particularly advantageous if your spending aligns with these categories. Conversely, the United Club Business Card provides a simpler earning structure of 1.5 miles per dollar on all purchases, which may be more suitable for those with diverse spending habits.
Both cards earn United miles deposited into the cardholder’s MileagePlus account, which can be redeemed for flights on United, United Express, and any Star Alliance partner airlines. Whether you choose the United Business Card or the United Club Business Card, you can rest assured that your miles will contribute to future travel experiences.
Ultimately, the decision between the United Business Card and the United Club Business Card should be based on your business spending patterns and travel habits. If your expenses align with the bonus categories of the United Business Card, its elevated earning rates may be more beneficial. However, if you frequently travel with United and value lounge access, additional free checked baggage, and Premier Access services, the United Club Business Card may be the better choice.
Both cards are issued by Chase and share the same credit card family, allowing for a straightforward upgrade path. However, be aware that upgrading from the United Business Card to the United Club Business Card will make you ineligible for the welcome bonus on the new card, as well as potentially disqualifying you from future welcome bonuses on the same card for 24 months.
In conclusion, both the United Business Card and the United Club Business Card offer excellent welcome bonuses and valuable perks for United loyalists. While the United Club Business Card’s higher annual fee is offset by its extensive benefits, the United Business Card remains an attractive option for those looking for a more budget-friendly alternative. Before making a decision, evaluate your business expenses, travel frequency with United, and how each card aligns with your redemption goals.
To learn more about these cards, check out our full review of the United Business and United Club Business Card.
