Achieving elite status with United MileagePlus requires effort, but the rewards can be significant. Benefits like early boarding, free checked bags, and complimentary upgrades make the journey worthwhile. In 2019, United enhanced its loyalty program by introducing PlusPoints, a flexible upgrade currency that allows you to enhance your travel experience by moving to a higher class of service.

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What Are United PlusPoints? 

United PlusPoints are an upgrade currency awarded to frequent flyers who achieve United Premier Platinum or Premier 1K status. These points can be used to upgrade flights, enhancing your travel experience by moving to a higher class of service.

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Earning United PlusPoints 

To earn PlusPoints, you need to achieve either:

  • Premier Platinum: 36 Premier Qualifying Flights (PQFs) and 12,000 Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs), or 15,000 PQPs.
  • Premier 1K: 54 PQFs and 18,000 PQPs, or 24,000 PQPs.
  • Premier Platinum members receive 40 PlusPoints, while Premier 1K members receive 280 PlusPoints.

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Using United PlusPoints 

PlusPoints can be used to upgrade both domestic and international flights across all cabins. Here's how many points you’ll need for different upgrades:

  • 10 PlusPoints: Premium economy to short-haul business
  • 20 PlusPoints: Economy to Premium Plus (short-haul/long-haul) or domestic first (short-haul)
  • 30 PlusPoints: Premium Plus to long-haul international business
  • 40 PlusPoints: Economy to long-haul international business
  • 80 PlusPoints: Discounted economy to long-haul international business

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Finding Upgrade Availability

  • Enable Expert Mode on United’s Website: This shows available fare classes during searches.
  • Use Tools like Seats.aero: This site provides a detailed view of flights with upgrade availability and allows you to set alerts for new availability.

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Steps to Upgrade

  • During Booking: Use United’s advanced search to filter flights eligible for PlusPoint upgrades.
  • After Booking: Manage your trip on United’s website and choose the upgrade option.

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Tips for Maximizing PlusPoints

  • Upgrade Early: Premier 1K members can skip the waitlist for a higher point cost.
  • Check Availability Regularly: Utilize expert mode and third-party tools for real-time updates.
  • Plan Ahead: Earn and use PlusPoints within their validity period to avoid expiration.

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Do United PlusPoints Expire? 

Yes, United PlusPoints do expire. They are typically valid for one year from the date they are issued. To avoid losing your PlusPoints, make sure to plan your travel and upgrade requests accordingly.

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How to Use United PlusPoints 

Using United PlusPoints is straightforward:

  • Check Availability: Enable expert mode on the United website or use third-party tools to find upgrade availability.
  • Request Upgrade: During booking or post-booking, select the upgrade option using your PlusPoints.
  • Monitor Status: Keep an eye on your upgrade request status through United’s website or app.

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By understanding and effectively using United PlusPoints, you can enjoy enhanced travel experiences, including access to United Polaris business class, which offers exceptional comfort and amenities on long-haul flights.

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