How to apply for a Delta SkyMiles® Reserve

What Should I Know About Delta SkyMiles® Reserve?

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express card is designed for loyal Delta customers who frequently travel and earn enough miles to offset the high annual fee.

Traveling frequently is necessary to justify the card’s yearly fee. For example, when you spend $2,000 per month on purchases made through the Delta website, you can earn 72,000 miles. When used to buy domestic Delta flights, these miles are worth $1,108.80 according to calculations.

The value of some card perks, such as an annual coupon providing a domestic round-trip for a companion, can justify the $550 cost on their own. This is especially true when combined with additional savings from access to free food and drink in Delta SkyClub or Amex Centurion lounges.

The Delta SkyMiles Reserve credit card offers unparalleled benefits for frequent Delta flyers. If you are a frequent traveler and looking for a premium card, this may be the right choice for you.

Once your monthly travel expenses reach about $2,500, this card becomes quite beneficial. You would likely be close to Silver status with Delta’s SkyMiles program since your $30,000 in annual spending would provide you with more than half of the 25,000 MQMs (medallion qualification miles) required to qualify each year.

Who Is Eligible for a Delta SkyMiles® Reserve?

Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

Proof of sufficient income is required to demonstrate the ability to repay any loans given by credit card firms. Applicants aged 18-21 must provide proof of income or have a cosigner, as mandated by the CARD Act of 2009.

We recommend a FICO® Score of 670 or higher to be eligible for the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card. Good credit is typically required for most top travel credit cards, and this one is no exception.

How to Apply for a Delta SkyMiles® Reserve?

The application for Delta SkyMiles® Reserve can be completed online, similar to many cards in the new economy. You will need to provide personal information during the application process. Due to the card’s requirement of excellent credit, the application process may be slightly longer than usual.

Once you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for a short while as your case is assessed to determine whether you qualify for the card. If accepted, you will receive an email providing instructions on how to obtain your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve credit card.

Is the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Worth It?

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is the most upscale among the Delta credit cards offered through American Express. Despite its $550 annual fee, the card provides access to airport lounges, a free checked bag, and many other benefits (see rates & fees). Rules and conditions apply. Even though the annual charge is high, the value of these benefits can amount to thousands of dollars.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve vs. Delta Skymiles® Platinum American Express Card

Both the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve and Delta Skymiles® Platinum American Express Card offer amazing benefits. However, the Reserve card provides additional advantages compared to the Platinum Version.

The main reason many people choose the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve is the access to lounges and better bonuses, such as the MQM bonuses. Ultimately, the choice between the two cards depends on how much priority you give to lounge access and how frequently you travel.

Delta Skymiles® Platinum American Express Card Benefits

• High pace of rewards
• Waived checked bag fees
• Early boarding
• Companion benefit

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Benefits

• High pace of rewards
• Waived checked bag fees
• Early boarding
• Companion benefit
• Exclusive lounge access

How to Apply for the Delta Skymiles® Platinum American Express Card

If you prefer a less premium option, you can apply for the Delta Skymiles® Platinum American Express Card using the link provided below.

Written by

Claire Harrison