The content is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change.

If you've ever wondered how to earn SkyMiles, then you probably know that Delta has a loyalty program and credit cards that allow you to do so. Ideally, it would be best to have a Delta SkyMiles credit card and a Diamond status in the Delta's SkyMiles loyalty program. Easy said than done.

Delta credit cards are not easy to get with poor credit. Plus, as they are issued by American Express, they come with rather high annual fees. Another disadvantage of the Delta cards is absolutely no 0% APR introductory period paired with high ongoing interest rate. The bright side of the Delta credit cards is that they allow you to earn miles on purchases and Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) that you will need to reach next Medallion status.

As a Member of the Delta's SkyMiles program, you will definitely want to reach their elite status - Diamond Medallion status. This elite status gives you access to the best Delta's travel benefits like more miles and rollover MQMs, complementary CLEAR membership, waived fees, premium boarding, priority check-in and security line access, first checked bag free, and many other benefits. That all is good but there is one big drawback: to get the Diamond status you will need to earn 125,000 MQMs or 140 Medallion Qualification Segments and $15,000 Medallion Qualification Dollars, or Medallion Qualification Dollar Waiver. To make things worse, those who've already reached Diamond status won't like the change to the MQD Waiver. Starting January 1, 2018, members will need to spend whopping $250,000 in a calendar year to get the MQD Waiver. This change will make many Delta SkyMiles members reconsider their membership.

Being loyal to Delta is becoming a tough job, and if you do not spend a lot and do not fly more than two times a year with them, the SkyMiles membership won't be worth the costs. So how to earn Delta SkyMiles when you are not a member and do not have their card? Get a travel credit card like the Discover it® Miles. You won't actually earn Delta SkyMiles, but you will be able to redeem earned miles towards Delta flights. The Discover it® Miles credit card is an ideal option for those who do not travel a lot but still want to earn miles. Miles earned with this card can be redeemed for statement credits towards travel purchases or you can redeem then for cash. Plus, the card comes with 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases (when the introductory interest rate is over, then 17.24% - 28.24% Variable APR on purchases will apply), has no annual fee and no foreign transaction fee, and it does not limit you to airlines you can fly. You can fly any airline, any time.

tags : Travel Rewards Airlines

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