# Last Chance to Earn Southwest Companion Pass via Credit Card Bonuses Southwest is changing its loyalty program, making it harder to earn the coveted Companion Pass. - **Source:** [The Points Guy](https://thepointsguy.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-06 - **Topic:** [Finance](https://brifing.si/c/finance) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/b333e22e-0b7c-4bfa-bbe6-94a2779305ef ## The Companion Pass Opportunity The Southwest Companion Pass allows travelers to bring a designated companion on flights for only the cost of taxes and fees. Currently, earning this benefit is achievable through credit card welcome bonuses. However, major changes to the Rapid Rewards program in 2027 will make this path significantly more difficult to navigate. ## Critical December Deadline To qualify under current rules, you must apply and be approved for an eligible Southwest credit card by December 2, 2026. This deadline is essential because it triggers a special exception allowing welcome bonus points to count toward the 135,000-point requirement, even if those points post to your account in early 2027. ## Increased Welcome Offers Southwest has recently boosted welcome offers across five credit cards to incentivize applicants. For instance, the Priority Credit Card now offers 90,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 within three months. Other options include the Premier and Plus cards, with bonuses ranging from 60,000 to 85,000 points depending on the specific card and spending requirements. ## Combining Personal and Business If one card bonus is insufficient, you may combine a personal card with a business card. While Chase restricts personal card eligibility based on previous bonuses and a 24-month rule, holding a personal card does not necessarily prevent you from qualifying for a business card, provided you meet the specific criteria for that product. ## Strategic Point Accumulation Reaching the 135,000-point threshold requires careful planning. If you have already earned 45,000 points through flights or partner activities in 2026, a 90,000-point welcome bonus could bridge the gap. Everyday spending on these cards also contributes to your total, helping you reach the qualification target before the end of the calendar year. ## Navigating Eligibility Restrictions Applicants must be aware of strict application rules. You cannot receive a welcome bonus on a personal card if you have held one in the past 24 months. Similarly, business cards have their own 24-month restriction. Always verify your eligibility status before applying to ensure your efforts count toward the Companion Pass goal. ## Future Program Changes Southwest is currently reshaping its entire airline loyalty structure. Future updates include the introduction of airport lounges, a new premium credit card, and a revised elite status program where the top tier will include the Companion Pass. These changes signal a shift toward a more traditional airline loyalty model starting in 2027. ## Final Takeaway for Travelers This is the final window to leverage credit card bonuses for a Companion Pass under existing, easier qualification rules. By acting before the December 2, 2026 deadline, travelers can secure a pass valid through the end of 2027. This provides a full year of discounted companion travel before the program rules officially change. ## Sources covering this story - https://thepointsguy.com/news/last-chance-earn-southwest-companion-pass-with-card-bonuses/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._