United MileagePlus
One of the most flexible frequent flyer programs in the world. MileagePlus miles never expire as long as you have account activity, and United's Star Alliance membership gives you award redemption options on 26 airlines worldwide. Chase Ultimate Rewards transfers 1:1, making Chase Sapphire the natural partner card.
Not enrolled yet? Join MileagePlus — it's free →
Program Details
- Miles ExpiryNo expiry with any account activity
- AllianceStar Alliance (26 airlines)
- Award PricingDynamic on United; partner awards still distance-based
- Key PartnersLufthansa, ANA, Singapore, Air Canada
- Transfer RatioChase UR → United 1:1 (instant)
- Domestic Value~1.2–1.5¢/mile average
- Int'l Business~2–3¢/mile (ANA/Lufthansa)
Award Chart Highlights
5K
Short domestic segments
30K
US–Europe economy (partner)
88K
US–Japan ANA biz class
Best Cards to Earn United Miles
Chase Sapphire Preferred®
Transfers 1:1 to United MileagePlus. Earn 3× on travel & dining. $95/yr — best value for United miles.
Pro Strategy: Earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points (they're more flexible than United miles) and only transfer to United once you've found award space. A 60,000-point CSP sign-up bonus = 60,000 United miles — enough for multiple domestic round trips or a one-way business class upgrade.
Sweet Spot Alert
Transfer Chase points to United and book on ANA or Lufthansa first/business class for ~88K–120K miles one-way. These partner awards offer some of the best value in the program.