Earn Miles without Flying: United Airlines MileagePlus X

I recently wrote about how to earn miles by participating in partner programs. One program in particular that I want to highlight is United Airline’s MileagePlus X, an app available for Google, Droid and Apple mobile devices. I have used this app since it was launched early last year and I enjoy earning hundreds of miles for purchases I normally make.

You can earn up to 5 miles per $1 spent at participating restaurants and retailers. The earning rate for restaurants is sometimes better than using reward credit cards that only offer 2 miles per $1 or Dining Rewards Network, unless you’re at VIP level. For retailers, sometimes online shopping portals may offer better promotions, but if you prefer to shop in-store, this is a good alternative if the store participates in the program.

How Does This Work?

This program earns United Airlines miles only. The app is very easy to use and miles rack up fairly quickly.

Step 1: Download the MileagePlus X app in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Step 2: Log in using your United Airlines account credentials. If you don’t have a United account, sign up here.

Step 3: Use the app to purchase goods or services at participating restaurants and retailers.

• Scroll through the catalog and search the various categories or specific merchants.

• Once you find your merchant, click Pay Now.

• Choose the credit card you would like to use (click top right).

  • These credit cards are added to your account from United’s website, not the app.

  • Primary cardholders of the Chase United Airlines credit card will earn an additional 25% bonus miles.

• Input the exact amount and press Pay Now.

• Before payment, enter your password and press Confirm.

Step 4: Show the cashier your gift card on your phone and/or write down the numbers on the receipt to pay your bill. Mark Redeemed when payment goes through successfully.

That’s it. It’s so easy!

An important note: You are purchasing an electronic gift card through the program, thus any return or exchange will be a merchandise credit, not a return to your credit card. The charge on your card will say MileagePlus X.

What Merchants Participate?

There is a long list of participating merchants, some of which are mainland brands so I skip those. Here are my favorite restaurants and stores, and their current miles promotions (they may change on occasion).

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Tips to Keep in Mind

• You can use any credit card. It doesn’t have to be the co-branded United Airlines card.

• You don’t have to use the United Airlines credit card to receive the 25% bonus. I’ve used an AMEX card on file in my United account and that earned the bonus.

• This purchase is considered a gift card purchase. I suggest you don’t make large purchases that may need to be returned as you won’t receive the return back on your credit card.

• Pay the exact amount on the bill, including taxes, so when it’s processed the gift card goes to $0.

• Don’t participate in programs just to earn miles or points. You don’t want to end up with a bill for items you don’t need or a bill you can’t pay in full.

The Final Word…

If you need to boost your United Airlines miles account, this is a great program since it’s so easy to use for everyday purchases. I use this app mostly for restaurants and some retailers that I know I won’t be making returns. There is the potential to earn thousands of miles (large appliance purchase at Sears, for example), but most of the miles will add up over time, hopefully just in time for you next trip.