Alaska Airlines Visa Signature vs USAA Rate Advantage Visa Platinum

Common questions

Which card has the bigger sign-up bonus, Alaska Airlines Visa Signature or USAA Rate Advantage Visa Platinum?

The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature has the bigger bonus, 70,000 miles + Companion Fare, worth roughly $1,050, versus None (~$0) on the USAA Rate Advantage Visa Platinum.

Is the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature's $95 annual fee worth it compared to the USAA Rate Advantage Visa Platinum?

At $95/yr, the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature is in the mid-fee tier. Compare its specific perks (lounge access, travel credits, primary rental insurance) to the USAA Rate Advantage Visa Platinum's, pick the one whose perks you'll actually use.

Can I have both the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature and USAA Rate Advantage Visa Platinum?

Yes, since they're from different issuers (Bank of America and USAA) the application rules don't conflict. Many points enthusiasts hold both, they pair well when one earns flexible bank points and the other earns a different currency.

Should I get the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature or the USAA Rate Advantage Visa Platinum first?

Get the one whose sign-up bonus you can hit comfortably without overspending. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature: $3,000 spend in 90 months. USAA Rate Advantage Visa Platinum: $0 in 0 months. Pick the easier minimum spend if you're new to points; pick the larger bonus if you have planned big purchases coming up.