How to earn pqp

What are Premier Qualifying Points (PQP)?

Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) are a key metric used by United Airlines to determine your elite status within their MileagePlus program. Unlike older systems that focused heavily on miles flown, the PQP system emphasizes the amount of money you spend on eligible flights. Accumulating PQP throughout the calendar year is essential for achieving and maintaining Premier Silver, Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, and Premier 1K status, each offering a progressively more rewarding set of benefits.

How Do You Earn PQP?

The primary way to earn PQP is by flying on eligible flights operated by United or its partner airlines. The general rule is that you earn 1 PQP for every U.S. dollar spent on the base fare and carrier-imposed surcharges of your ticket. Taxes and government-imposed fees do not contribute to your PQP balance. For example, if you purchase a ticket for $500 and the taxes and fees amount to $50, you will earn 500 PQP for that flight.

Important Considerations for Earning PQP:

• Eligible Flights: PQP are earned on flights marketed and operated by United, as well as flights marketed by United and operated by a partner airline. Flights marketed and operated by partner airlines without a United flight number typically do not earn PQP. Always check the specific fare rules and United's MileagePlus program details to confirm eligibility.
• Fare Basis: The amount spent on the base fare and surcharges is the determining factor. Basic Economy fares purchased directly from United.com may earn PQP, but it's always best to verify the most current policy, as these can sometimes change.
• Partner Airlines: When flying on a United Express® partner, you will earn PQP based on the fare paid. For flights operated by other Star Alliance™ partners or other United partners, PQP earning can vary. Some partners may offer PQP based on distance flown or a fixed rate, while others may still align with the fare paid. It is crucial to consult the MileagePlus partner earning charts for precise details.
• Award Tickets: Flights booked using MileagePlus award miles generally do not earn PQP, as you are not spending money on the base fare.
• Changes and Cancellations: If you change or cancel a flight, the PQP earned will be based on the final fare paid. If you receive a travel credit, PQP will be earned when you rebook and fly a new eligible flight using that credit.

How Do PQP Contribute to Premier Status?

United MileagePlus Premier status is earned based on a combination of PQP and Premier qualifying flights (PQF) or just PQP alone, depending on the tier. For example, to achieve Premier Silver status, you might need to earn a certain number of PQP and PQF, or a higher threshold of PQP only. The specific thresholds change annually, so it's vital to check the United MileagePlus website for the most up-to-date requirements for the current program year.

Achieving elite status unlocks a range of valuable benefits, including:

• Upgrade Opportunities: Complimentary upgrades to Economy Plus® seating and potential upgrades to First Class or United Polaris® business class.
• Priority Services: Priority check-in, security screening, and boarding.
• Lounge Access: Access to United Club℠ and Star Alliance lounges (at higher tiers).
• Bonus Miles: Earn bonus MileagePlus miles on flights.
• Baggage Allowances: Increased free checked baggage allowances.

Earning PQP with United MileagePlus Credit Cards

United offers several co-branded credit cards that can assist you in earning PQP. Some cards allow you to earn a certain amount of PQP for every dollar spent on the card, up to a specified limit. This provides an additional avenue to reach your desired Premier status without necessarily increasing your flight activity. For instance, you might earn 500 PQP for every $12,000 spent on your United Explorer Card, up to a maximum of 1,000 PQP annually. Always review the specific terms and conditions of each credit card offer, as these benefits can change.

PQP Expiration and Status Recertification

It's crucial to remember that PQP are earned within a calendar year, from January 1st to December 31st. Any PQP earned will expire at the end of the year, and your progress towards Premier status resets. To maintain your elite status, you must re-qualify each year by meeting the PQP (and PQF, if applicable) thresholds for the upcoming program year. This encourages consistent travel and loyalty to United Airlines.

Where to Track Your PQP?

You can easily track your PQP accumulation and progress towards Premier status by logging into your MileagePlus account on the United Airlines website or through the United mobile app. Your account dashboard will provide real-time updates on your PQP balance, PQF, and how close you are to reaching your next status tier.