How do I get TSA PreCheck without paying?

Unlock Faster Airport Security: How to Get TSA PreCheck Without Actually Paying (Out-of-Pocket)

Tired of long security lines at the airport? Dreaming of breezing through security without removing your shoes, liquids, or laptop? TSA PreCheck can be a game-changer for frequent flyers, but the $85 application fee can be a deterrent. What if you could access the convenience of expedited screening without actually paying that fee yourself?

The secret lies in leveraging a popular perk offered by many credit cards: TSA PreCheck reimbursement.

Think of it this way: Instead of directly handing over $85 for your TSA PreCheck application, you use a qualifying credit card to pay the fee. The credit card company then reimburses you the full amount, effectively granting you TSA PreCheck for “free.”

How Does It Work?

The process is surprisingly straightforward:

1. Check Your Credit Card Benefits: This is the most crucial step. Not all credit cards offer this benefit, so carefully review your cardholder agreement or log into your online account to see if your card provides TSA PreCheck or Global Entry reimbursement. Many travel rewards cards, premium cards, and even some co-branded airline cards include this perk. Look for language specifically mentioning “TSA PreCheck application fee credit” or “Global Entry application fee credit.” (While Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits, Global Entry has a slightly higher application fee.)
2. Apply for TSA PreCheck: If your card offers the reimbursement, proceed with the standard TSA PreCheck application process through the official TSA website (tsa.gov). You’ll need to provide personal information and schedule an in-person appointment for fingerprinting and background check.
3. Pay with Your Qualifying Credit Card: When you reach the payment stage of the application, ensure you use the eligible credit card. This is critical! If you use a different card, you won’t receive the reimbursement.
4. Reimbursement Process: After you pay the application fee with your qualifying card, the reimbursement should be automatic. Typically, the credit card company will issue a statement credit within a few billing cycles. Check your statement to confirm the credit has been applied.

Why is this a Smart Move?

• Cost-Effective: It eliminates the direct financial burden of the TSA PreCheck application fee.
• Long-Term Savings: Considering TSA PreCheck is valid for five years, the benefit effectively saves you $17 per year, just for airport security!
• Convenience and Time Savings: TSA PreCheck drastically reduces wait times and simplifies the screening process, making travel less stressful.
• Potentially Double the Benefit: Some credit cards offer this benefit every few years, allowing you to renew your TSA PreCheck for “free” when it expires.

Beyond TSA PreCheck: Global Entry Considerations

While we’ve focused on TSA PreCheck, many credit cards actually offer a credit for Global Entry application fees instead. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck privileges, plus expedited entry into the United States when returning from international travel. The Global Entry fee is slightly higher ($100), but if you travel internationally frequently, it could be the better option. Make sure your credit card covers the specific program you want.

Don’t Leave Money on the Table!

Before your next trip, take a few minutes to investigate your credit card benefits. You might be pleasantly surprised to discover you already have access to faster, easier airport security without spending an extra dime. By strategically utilizing your credit card perks, you can unlock valuable travel benefits and enjoy a more seamless and stress-free travel experience.