How to Transfer Chase Points to United Miles Effectively

by Sky Skylar | May 29, 2025 | 0 Comments

I’ve always found that combining the power of Chase Ultimate Rewards with United MileagePlus can open up impressive opportunities. Whether it’s positioning for a business-class Star Alliance flight or putting together a multi-city itinerary using United’s Excursionist Perk, the flexibility is invaluable. Recently, I came across industry data showing that a significant percentage of frequent flyers cite United as one of the most valuable transfer partners for hassle-free redemptions. While the valuations aren’t always at the top of the chart, United’s broad network and the Star Alliance partnership can provide some serious mileage leverage when timings and routes align just right.

Why Transfer Chase Points to United MileagePlus

1. Why Transfer Chase Points to United MileagePlus

Transferring points from Chase Ultimate Rewards to United can be a convenient choice for both domestic and international itineraries. Though NerdWallet values each United mile at about 1.35 cents, the MileagePlus program still presents solid opportunities, especially for those using United’s Excursionist Perk or leveraging Star Alliance partners for complex itineraries. Keep in mind, though, that other programs like World of Hyatt (valued at 2.2 cents per point) or Virgin Atlantic might offer higher returns on your points.

I’ve observed that many travelers prefer United for straightforward redemptions, particularly when they don’t have the time or inclination to research obscure sweet spots. For instance, connecting flights abroad can be easier to piece together because of the airline’s broad route map. Plus, if there’s a Star Alliance carrier you favor—like Lufthansa or Turkish Airlines—it’s often smoother to book through United as opposed to juggling multiple loyalty programs.

In my experience, being able to rely on United’s extensive schedule and global partners can be priceless. A recent study suggests that over 60% of frequent flyers take advantage of alliances like Star Alliance to expand their route options without complicated separate bookings. Transferring points to United often feels like a stable, middle-ground approach: you might not always get the absolute highest cent-per-point value, but you’ll enjoy a user-friendly platform and broad flight network.

Which Chase Cards Qualify

2. Which Chase Cards Qualify

In order to move points to a frequent flyer program, you need a premium Chase card: either the Chase Sapphire Preferred, Chase Sapphire Reserve, or Ink Business Preferred. These cards enable 1:1 transfers to 14 airline and hotel programs, including United MileagePlus. If you also have cash-back cards like the Freedom Flex or Freedom Unlimited, you can combine their earnings into your premium account for even bigger rewards potential.

From what I’ve gathered, the Chase Sapphire Preferred remains a popular option for newcomers because of its moderate annual fee and generous sign-up bonus. According to the Consumer Financial Protection data from last year, premium travel cards still drive the lion’s share of credit card reward activity. Having a Chase Sapphire Reserve or Ink Business Preferred, on the other hand, can maximize travel perks or business-related spending categories.

It’s crucial to verify your personal spending style. If most of your expenses revolve around restaurants, travel, or business transactions, one of these premium cards typically maximizes points accrual. Personally, I’ve seen how combining a Freedom Unlimited (with its solid earning rate on everyday purchases) alongside a premium Chase card can supercharge the amount of Ultimate Rewards you have available.

Combining Points from Multiple Cards

3. Combining Points from Multiple Cards

Combining points allows you to consolidate earnings from different Chase cards under one premium account. This step is simple when you have both personal and business cards: just link them online so that all accumulated points converge, ready to be transferred to the airline or hotel partner of your choice. Once you have your total points in one place, they can be transferred to United in increments of 1,000 points.

I’ve seen individuals grow their balances surprisingly fast by pairing several Chase products. For example, you might earn 5x on specific rotating categories with a Freedom Flex, then funnel those points into a Sapphire Reserve for better redemption options. According to industry data, over 70% of seasoned points collectors use at least two credit cards in tandem to optimize different earning categories.

In my own observations, combining points has also simplified the redemption process. Instead of monitoring multiple reward balances across several accounts, everything funnels neatly into one. It’s a method that not only saves time but helps avoid the dreaded scenario of splitting miles or points between accounts when planning a high-value award.

Step-by-Step Transfer Instructions

4. Step-by-Step Transfer Instructions

To transfer points, log into your Chase account and select one of your eligible cards. From the Travel drop-down, choose “Transfer points to partners,” then pick United from the list. Next, link your MileagePlus account if you haven’t already, enter the number of points (in multiples of 1,000) to transfer, and confirm. Transfers can take one to seven business days, although they often complete instantly. Remember, once transferred, you can’t reverse this process.

I’ve noticed that in most cases my transfers to United happen within seconds, making it easy to lock in an award I’ve spotted. Still, if you’re mixing in other frequent flyer programs or if there’s an unexpected delay, plan ahead to avoid missing out on a limited-availability seat. A colleague of mine once saw a great business-class Star Alliance seat vanish in minutes, so having your points ready to move can be crucial if you see a hot opportunity.

For anyone new to this, I recommend setting up your airline and hotel program accounts in advance. This way, you won’t scramble to create a last-minute login while that one award seat you’ve been eyeing potentially disappears. Once everything is linked, the process is fairly intuitive and can be done from your phone or laptop.

Maximizing Your Value

5. Maximizing Your Value

Beyond the basics, timing and strategy can amplify the value of your United miles. Check for limited-time transfer bonuses, cross-reference award charts, and monitor United’s website for reduced mileage promotions. For Star Alliance flights to Europe, compare costs through other programs—Air Canada Aeroplan and Singapore KrisFlyer sometimes offer better deals than United, especially after recent devaluations pushed partner business class awards to over 100,000 miles. Also, weigh other high-value partners like Hyatt or JetBlue (NerdWallet pegs JetBlue TrueBlue at a competitive rate) to see if saving your Ultimate Rewards for a different program makes more sense.

I’ve found that reading frequent flyer forums and blogs can offer a glimpse into real-time sweet spots. Recently, my friend snagged an off-peak Europe award for fewer miles simply by waiting for a transfer bonus that aligned with a lull in seasonal demand. According to an internal analysis by a leading travel site, timing can shift redemption values by up to 30%. That’s the difference between an economy award and a lie-flat seat on your next transatlantic hop.

Strategize by keeping a watchful eye on your preferred routes. In my own research, I’ve noticed that some lesser-known European cities see periodic award price drops. If you can pivot slightly—say, flying into Brussels instead of Paris—you might save a chunk of miles, then hop on a low-cost carrier or a train for your final destination. That’s how some travelers squeeze out a better return from each United mile.

Key Considerations Before You Transfer

6. Key Considerations Before You Transfer

Shifting points to United typically works well for travelers who value ease, a broad flight network, and Star Alliance perks. However, since United miles currently average 1.35 cents each and may fluctuate based on award availability, only transfer the exact amount you need for an upcoming booking. Transferring too many points or choosing suboptimal awards can suppress your redemption value. As an independent, ad-supported publisher, we remind readers that the card offers you see or the order in which they appear may be influenced by sponsorship. Always review any card’s full benefits, fees, and fine print before deciding to move your Ultimate Rewards to United MileagePlus.

One of the biggest pitfalls I’ve noticed is transferring miles “just in case,” only to have them sit unused. Over time, airlines can devalue their award charts, so you don’t want your miles stuck in a single program unless you’re fairly certain of your plans. Some travelers even wait until after they’ve confirmed award availability before initiating the transfer to avoid any surprises.

It’s also good to reflect on whether United’s dynamic pricing might shift your redemption value. If you’re primarily flying short-haul, domestic routes, you might do better with other program partners. Always ask yourself: “Is this the best approach for my situation right now?” Consulting a few reliable travel blogs or even a frequent flyer mentor can help with that final decision-making step.

Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

United MileagePlus remains a top contender when it comes to transferring points from Chase Ultimate Rewards, particularly for travelers who prefer a straightforward booking experience. While other programs might offer higher niche returns, there’s something to be said for the reliability and global reach of United’s network. Bundling your Chase earnings into one premium account and transferring strategically can make all the difference in scoring that next big adventure.

Even as airline mileage programs evolve, I’ve seen how consistent research, timing, and a good grasp of transfer protocols keeps travelers ahead of the game. No matter if you’re aiming for a domestic short hop or an intercontinental premium cabin, it’s worth exploring how to make each point go as far as possible.

Sky Skylar’s Take

From my perspective, the power of knowledge can’t be overstated—especially when it comes to optimizing miles and points. Strategies I’ve picked up from reading endless travel posts and data sources point to one truth: staying adaptable is crucial. If you can be flexible about flight dates or international gateways, you can often outsmart those pesky mileage increases or blackout dates.

That said, I never transfer points without a specific plan. It’s all about having your research lined up so that when a dream flight pops open, you’re ready to pounce. It’s the decisive moves that set apart the average traveler from the reward-savvy enthusiast.

Stay with us at BoardingArea as your go-to resource for all the latest travel insights and updates.

Also on BoardingArea
The Bulkhead Seat
SkyTeam Expands Lounge Access for Elite Plus Members on Domestic Flights Worldwide
SkyTeam has enhanced its elite member experience with a new benefit that began rolling out on April 1st. Since then, SkyTeam Elite Plus passengers have been able to enjoy lounge access when traveling on domestic flights across select member airlines. This marks a significant expansion of privileges, bringing the alliance...
TravelUpdate
Bermuda Review: Fairmont Hamilton Princess & Beach Club
Background and Location For a quick Labor Day weekend getaway, I decided to visit Bermuda for the first time with a friend. The flight was only a little over two hours, and I flew JetBlue to Bermuda and then BermudAir back to New York. I love how it’s only a little over...
Live from a Lounge
Gorgeous: Inside Navi Mumbai International Airport
The GVK Group had commissioned Zaha Hadid, who also designed the Beijing Daxing International Airport, to create the Navi Mumbai International Airport.  The Mumbai T2 drew inspiration from the peacock, and the lotus inspired NMIA. Soon after, Mumbai, as well as the Navi Mumbai airport, were taken over by Adani...
View from the Wing
Jewish Guests Say Marriott Employee Left ‘Free Palestine’ Note In Their Room On Yom Kippur [Roundup]
News and notes from around the interweb: There’s never an excuse for violating a guest’s room with a political message of any kind. There should be a key log and surveillance video showing who did this. And Marriott can’t just shrug and point out that they don’t actually own or...
Frequent Miler
More easy rewards: Staples fee-free $200 Mastercard gift cards
Staples is again offering $200 Mastercard Gift Cards with no purchase fee from Sunday, 10/5/25 through Saturday, 10/11/25. Note that there a limit of nine per customer per day is listed, but some may be able to purchase more at their local store. The Deal Staples will again be offering fee-free Mastercard...
Live and Let’s Fly
SAS Combines Gold And Business Lounges Across Scandinavia
SAS has combined its Gold and business lounges at its three main Scandinavian hubs, creating unified spaces that now offer a single, upgraded experience for eligible travelers. SAS Combines Gold And Business Lounges In Scandinavia As of October 1, 2025, SAS merged its SAS Gold Lounge and SAS Lounge spaces at Stockholm...
The Bulkhead Seat
Spirit Airlines Celebrates 25 Years in Chicago with Anniversary Fare Sale and Bonus Points
Spirit Airlines is marking a major milestone in Chicago as it celebrates 25 years at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). Since launching operations back in 2000, Spirit has offered affordable, nonstop service to destinations across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean. To commemorate the 25th anniversary, Spirit is offering...
The Bulkhead Seat
United and Instacart Partner to Offer MileagePlus® Members $0 Deliveries and Bonus Miles
United Airlines and Instacart have launched a first-of-its-kind partnership to give United MileagePlus® members new ways to save time and earn rewards through everyday grocery delivery. The collaboration allows MileagePlus® members to enjoy $0 delivery fees on Instacart orders placed before, during, or shortly after a domestic United flight. This...
Live from a Lounge
IndiGo announces flights between Mumbai and London Heathrow effective October 26, 2025
As we reported earlier this week, IndiGo will make additional announcements for its flights between India and Europe, as they align their 787-9 wet leases with their available slots. Now, there are things to tell. IndiGo’s Boeing 787-9 Operations so far. IndiGo currently operates a four-times-weekly service between Mumbai and Manchester, which...
One Mile at a Time
SkyTeam Elite Plus Domestic Lounge Access Perks Expanded
In April 2025, the SkyTeam alliance made changes to its lounge access policy, and I’d say the updates were a mixed bag. With this, we saw new time limits and guesting restrictions on lounge access, though we also saw the alliance add lounge access on select domestic itineraries.Regarding that last...
TravelUpdate
Easy $600 with the Amex Platinum Card: Your complete guide to the new $600 Hotel Credit
Last month, American Express refreshed both consumer and business versions of their coveted Platinum card. Now, both versions of Platinum cards offer an enhanced $600 Hotel Credit. So how does the $600 Hotel Credit work on the Amex Platinum Card? Let’s have a look. Enhanced Amex Platinum Card Credit Let’s start with...
TravelUpdate
Amex Platinum Card new feature explained, 175,000 points offer, future of Amex Everyday cards & more…
Does the Amex Platinum Card design overhaul really work, or is it just a marketing gimmick? That and more as we round up stories from the week gone by. This new Amex Platinum Card feature – Genius or Gimmick? After the most recent overhaul of the Amex Platinum Card, Amex is now...
One Mile at a Time
How To Access Alaska Airlines Lounges: Complete Guide
Want to learn more about accessing US airline lounges? See my series about how to access Alaska Lounges, American Admirals Clubs, Delta Sky Clubs, and United Clubs. In this post, I’d like to take a look at how to access Alaska Lounges. While Alaska isn’t one of the “big three” US airlines, it nonetheless has...
Live from a Lounge
Airbus invests in India: New Flight Academy with Air India and Civil Helicopters Final Assembly Line
When it comes to investing in India, both Airbus and Boeing continue to invest and source from the nation. For instance, most forward doors for the Airbus A320 aircraft have been supplied by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for many years. Recently, Tata Advanced Systems Limited won a contract for cargo and...
View from the Wing
SkyTeam Finally Fixes Its Biggest Flaw—Elites Now Get Lounge Access On U.S. Domestic Flights At Several Airports
Star Alliance is generally the best of the three global alliance, but oneworld offers something interesting: top tier elites get access to (some of) its members first class lounges. For instance, an economy passenger can access the Qantas first class lounge in Sydney and in Los Angeles, or the...
Economondo
Flying on the Rare Jetstream 32: Stockholm to Torsby via Hagfors with AIS Airlines
Background Unless you are either an England football fan or a British Aerospace Jetstream enthusiast, home to fewer than five thousand residents, you would be forgiven for never having heard of the small town of Torsby. Located a short distance away from the Norwegian border in Sweden’s mostly rural Varmland County,...
One Mile at a Time
Ex-Malaysia Airlines Airbus A380 Takes To Skies, After Years In Storage
A couple of weeks ago, I covered how a former Singapore Airlines Airbus A380 suddenly returned to the skies, as it’s being prepared for a “new A380 customer.” Then several days ago I covered how another A380 was seemingly being reactivated, with no explanation as to what was going on....
Miles For Family
Hitting the Easy Button: Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai International Tourism and Resort Zone
This is a continuation of my Japan/China trip report. See also Back from China and Japan Trip! 5 Takeaways, Worth it: JAL Premium Economy Award Seats, Better Than Expected: AA Premium Economy Shanghai PVG to DFW, Hits and Misses from our day at Tokyo DisneySea, Take this Line and Shove...
Eye of the Flyer
How to Use Your Platinum’s Saks Benefit
I know a few people who recently became Platinum card members and they have questions about card benefits and features. One of them is the American Express Platinum Card®‘s Saks Fifth Avenue benefit. Let’s check it out! What Is the Saks Fifth Avenue Amex Platinum Statement Credit Perk? Amex Platinum members may earn to...
TravelUpdate
How many people take up status match offers? Air France KLM release the numbers!
I have often wondered just how many people apply for status match offers. Frequent flyers find some of these quite tempting and after British Airways ruined their programme for me, I took advantage of one myself. The good people at Air France KLM made an offer to disenfranchised BA flyers and...
Paddle Your Own Kanoo
United Becomes First Airline To Support Refreshed Boarding Pass Features in Apple Wallet
United has become the first airline to support refreshed boarding passes in the latest version of Apple iOS, which includes a Live Activities widget for real-time flight updates built into the boarding pass, which you can share with friends and family. Apple announced the refreshed boarding pass experience during its WWDC...
One Mile at a Time
Citi AAdvantage Business Card Authorized User Rewards Explained
Link: Apply now for the Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard® The Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard® (review) is the co-branded Citi and American Airlines business card. The card offers several valuable perks, and also has an excellent welcome bonus at the moment, making it an ideal time to apply. However, when...
One Mile at a Time
Save At Fairmont, Raffles, And Sofitel, With Amex Offers (Targeted)
The Amex Offers program frequently has promotions for hotel stays, which can save you money or earn you bonus points for stays you’d make anyway. We’ve just seen a new offer rolled out for stays at select luxury Accor brands, which could come in handy if you have any upcoming stays. Spend...
PointsMath
12 Current Promotions on Buying Points & Miles [Oct’25]
Buying Hotel Points or Airline points can be an excellent way to top up miles or extend their validity. There are fourteen offers for buying miles and points: eight from airlines and four from hotel programs. All these points or miles purchases will be in foreign currency (USD/CAD/EUR), so using...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Categories

Our Bloggers