BlogTravel TipsHow to Get United Premier Silver Benefits?
Cynthia Lucas
By Cynthia Lucas
Published Dec 20, 2024 8:20 AM EST

How to Get United Premier Silver Benefits?

To get United Silver benefits, earn 12 PQFs (premier qualifying flights) and 4,000 PQPs (premier qualifying points) or 5,000 PQPs through United flights or credit card spending.

Wondering how to unlock the perks of United Premier Silver benefits? Achieving this status isn't just about flying more; it's about making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. From priority boarding to extra baggage, these perks can make a big difference. In this guide, we'll explore the steps to reach this status and how it can truly enhance your next journey with United Airlines.

What is United Premier Silver status?

United Premier Silver status is a level in the MileagePlus® program that rewards frequent flyers with a range of benefits based on their travel activity. To achieve Premier Silver, you need to earn at least 12 Premier Qualifying Flights (PQF) and 4,000 Premier Qualifying Points (PQP), or 5,000 United PQP alone.

⏩ Here are some of the key facts about United Silver Status:

❖ Eligibility: 12 PQF and 4,000 PQP or 5,000 PQP.

❖ Benefits: Includes a free checked bag, priority boarding, and access to Economy Plus seating at check-in for you and a companion.

❖ Bonus Miles: Earn 7x miles on every flight booking.

❖ Free Upgrades: Eligible for free upgrades on the day of departure.

❖ Star Alliance Status: Premier Silver members enjoy Star Alliance Silver status, which offers some benefits with partner airlines.

➱ How much is a Clear membership discount with Premier Silver?

Premier Silver members can access a discounted Clear membership for $159 annually, saving $40 compared to the standard price of $199.

Fond Tip: To qualify for United Premier Silver, fly regularly with United and use options like credit cards or partner offers to earn PQP.

Also Read: United Airlines Premium Services

How to get United Premier Silver benefits?

To get United Premier Silver benefits, you need to qualify through the MileagePlus® program. This program rewards loyal travelers with various perks based on their travel activity and points accumulation.

1. MileagePlus Program

The MileagePlus® program offers four United status levels: Silver, Gold, Platinum, and 1K. To reach Premier Silver, you need to accumulate a combination of Premier Qualifying Flights (PQF) and United Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) within a calendar year.

  • United Premier Silver status is achieved by earning:

12 PQF and 4,000 PQP United

OR 5,000 PQP alone.

These qualifications are based on flights with United and United Express or certain partner airlines, and they reset at the end of the year. You'll need to maintain your status each year to continue enjoying the United Silver benefits.

2. Earning Premier Qualifying Points

To earn Premier Silver benefits, you'll need to focus on accumulating United Premier Qualifying Points (PQP). PQP United is based on the money you spend on flights rather than just the distance traveled. Here's how to earn PQP:

➞ Flying on United or United Express flights: The more expensive your ticket, the more PQP you'll earn. Call FondTravels at +1 (571) 389 6426 for exclusive airline deals and discounts.

➞ Using MileagePlus Credit Cards: Some United credit cards offer PQP toward status. This is a great way to earn PQP without actually flying.

➞ Purchasing PQP: If you don't fly enough, you can also purchase PQP to reach the threshold needed for United Premier status. This option is available for members who want to boost their PQP count and reach status faster.

Fond Tip: Earn Premier status by flying with United and accumulating PQF and PQP. Reach your 2025 goal by December 31, 2024, for exclusive perks!

3. Other ways to get United Silver Status

Besides flying, you can reach United Premier status by earning PQP through eligible purchases, like credit card spending or special promotions. Some credit cards offer bonus PQP, making it easier to reach the Silver status level without flying as frequently. Here's how United Silver status benefits work:

➞ Using MileagePlus Credit Cards: Some United credit cards offer PQP towards status.

➞ Purchasing PQP: If you don't fly enough, you can purchase PQP to reach the threshold.

➞ MileagePlus Partners: Some MileagePlus partners, like hotel stays or car rentals, offer opportunities to earn PQP. Check with these partners to see how you can earn additional United status tier points.

Can I use my United Premier Silver status on international flights?

Yes, United Premier Silver offers priority check-in and boarding for international flights but no lounge access. Lounge access is available with higher tiers like Premier Gold. Silver members get free first-class upgrades when available. They also earn more miles per dollar spent, helping them earn rewards faster for future trips. Reserve your international flights at the best rates by calling us at +1 (571) 389 6426.

Read More: United Airlines Flight Credit

What are the benefits of Premier Silver on United?

United Premier Silver status offers valuable benefits, such as priority services, bonus miles, free checked baggage, and extra perks with Star Alliance partners.

Complimentary Upgrades

As a Premier Silver member, you're eligible for complimentary upgrades, available starting from the day of departure. This benefit allows you to enjoy a more comfortable seat, depending on availability.

◈ Free upgrades start on the day of departure

◈ Eligible for upgrades on United and United Express flights

◈ Upgrade availability depends on open seating in premium cabins

Bonus Mileage Earnings

One of the key benefits of Premier Silver United is the 7x miles earned on all United, United Express, and select partner flights. This bonus earning can significantly boost your miles balance, helping you reach your next award faster. So, what are you waiting for?

Free Checked Baggage

With United Premier Silver baggage allowance, you get one free checked bag (up to 70 lbs) on Economy class flights, which helps save on baggage fees. This United Silver benefits saves you money and the hassle of paying for baggage, making your travel experience even more convenient.

Priority Services

With Premier Silver status, you get access to priority boarding (Group 2), ensuring that you can board early and settle into your seat with ease. You also benefit from priority check-in and security screening where available, making your time at the airport quicker and more efficient. For further queries, contact United Premier Silver phone number for dedicated support.

Star Alliance Perks

As a Premier Silver member, you get additional benefits with Star Alliance partners, expanding your travel perks globally.

◈ Star Alliance Silver status, giving you access to benefits such as priority check-in and boarding with partner airlines.

◈ Extra baggage allowance on most Star Alliance flights, making it easier to carry your belongings.

◈ Priority baggage handling and airport lounge access with select partners. Book your United flight tickets today with FondTravels at +1 (571) 389 6426 for great deals.

➱ Does Premier Silver get United Lounge access? United Premier Silver members do not get Lounge access. Only eligible Star Alliance Gold members, such as Premier 1K, Platinum, and Gold, have lounge privileges.

United Premier Silver comparison to other United Premier levels

United Premier Silver is the entry-level status in United's MileagePlus Premier program, offering some excellent travel perks. However, as you progress to higher levels—Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, and Premier 1K—the benefits become more rewarding. Here's a comparison to help you understand what each level offers:

➤ United Premier Gold

United Premier Gold offers enhanced benefits like extra checked bags, preferred seating, and improved upgrade opportunities compared to Silver.

➜ Free Checked Bags: 2 checked bags

➜ Priority Boarding: Group 1 boarding

➜ Free Economy Plus Access: At booking for you and 1 companion

➜ Upgrades: Eligible for upgrades 48 hours before your flight

➜ Mileage Earning: 8x miles on every flight

➤ United Premier Platinum

United Premier Platinum adds even more perks, including priority boarding, more companions for Economy Plus, and quicker upgrade access.

➜ Free Checked Bags: 3 checked bags

➜ Priority Boarding: Group 1 boarding

➜ Free Economy Plus Access: At booking for you and up to 8 companions

➜ Upgrades: Eligible for upgrades 72 hours before your flight

➜ Mileage Earning: 9x miles on every flight

➜ PlusPoints: Earn 40 PlusPoints for additional upgrades

➤ United Premier 1K

United Premier 1K is the top-tier level, offering ultimate benefits like priority pre-boarding, maximum upgrade access, and bonus miles.

➜ Free Checked Bags: 3 checked bags

➜ Priority Boarding: Pre-board

➜ Free Economy Plus Access: At booking for you and up to 8 companions

➜ Upgrades: Eligible for upgrades 96 hours before your flight

➜ Mileage Earning: 11x miles on every flight

➜ PlusPoints: Earn 280 PlusPoints for extra upgrades

Fond Tip: Premier Silver members get Star Alliance Silver status, while Premier Gold, Platinum, and 1K members are eligible for Star Alliance Gold status, which grants extra benefits across the Star Alliance network.

Is United Premier Silver worth it?

Yes, United Premier Silver status can be worth it if you often fly with United Airlines and make the most of its perks. These include upgrades, a free checked bag, Economy Plus seating, priority boarding, and a mileage bonus. However, if you don't travel frequently or prefer flying with different airlines, it might not be as valuable.

***Note: United status match lets elite flyers from other airlines enjoy comparable MileagePlus benefits like free upgrades, checked bags, and bonus miles.

Also Read: Best Day to Book a Flight on United Airlines

Wrapping Up: United Silver Benefits

United Premier Silver can really elevate your travel experience, offering perks like priority boarding, free checked bags, and complimentary upgrades, especially for those who fly often with United. However, if you're not a frequent flyer or tend to choose other airlines, the effort to reach and maintain this status may not offer enough return on investment. Ultimately, it's about whether these benefits align with your travel style and needs. Need help with your next flight reservation? Get in touch with FondTravels at +1 (571) 389 6426 — we're always here to make your journey easier and more affordable!

You might also be interested in: 🚩
1. What to Know About Delta One Flight?
2. American Airlines Premium Services
3. United Premium Plus: A Guide to the Benefits and Features
4. What to know about Southwest Airlines Business Select?

FAQ’s

Can United Premier Silver be upgraded to first class?

How long does United Premier Silver status last?

How many PQP do you need for Silver United?

How to earn premier qualifying points on United?

Does United Premier Silver get free checked bags?

What does premier silver mean on United?

Can I access the United Lounge with Premier Silver?

What if I don't meet United Premier Silver requirements?

Tags:United
About the author
Cynthia Lucas
Cynthia Lucas

Cynthia Lucas, a visionary author at Fond Travels since 2017, has revolutionized travel writing by blending exploration with captivating storytelling. Renowned for her insightful advice, Cynthia excels in sharing the best tips and tricks on securing the cheapest flights, hotels, and experiences. Her work enables travelers to realize their dream trips without breaking the bank. 

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