Ultimate Guide to United MileagePlus Refer a Friend Program in 2025

Introduction to United MileagePlus Program

United MileagePlus is the loyalty program of United Airlines, designed to reward frequent flyers with miles that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, hotel stays, and more. With over 100 million members, it’s one of the most recognized airline rewards programs globally.

The program features:

• Earning miles through flights, credit card spending, and partner purchases

• Elite status tiers like Premier Silver, Gold, Platinum, and 1K

• Access to Star Alliance rewards, expanding redemption options worldwide

United continually enhances its loyalty offers, including referral incentives to help loyal customers grow the program through word of mouth.

What is the United MileagePlus Refer a Friend Program?

The United MileagePlus Refer a Friend program is a marketing initiative that allows current MileagePlus members to invite friends and family to join or sign up for a United-branded credit card. When the referred individual completes certain actions, both the referrer and the referee earn bonus miles or incentives.

This type of program:

• Builds brand loyalty

• Rewards existing users for promotion

• Helps United gain new, long-term customers

It’s a win-win for everyone involved, especially in 2025 where bonus mile offers are at a record high.

How the Referral Process Works

Here’s a quick breakdown of how to refer a friend successfully:

1. Log into your MileagePlus account

2. Navigate to the “Refer a Friend” section (often under Credit Cards or Promotions)

3. Generate a personal referral link

4. Share it via email, text, or social media

5. Your friend uses the link to apply for a United credit card

6. After approval and meeting the minimum spend, you both receive bonus miles!

Timing and tracking are crucial, so always confirm that your friend used your specific link.

Eligibility Criteria for Referrers and Referees

To qualify for referral bonuses:

• Referrer must be a MileagePlus member in good standing

• You must receive a unique referral link through United’s referral page

• Your friend must be new to the specific United credit card and meet application requirements

• Bonuses are typically available only in the U.S.

Also, there are annual limits to how many referrals you can earn from, so read the terms carefully.

Bonus Miles You Can Earn Through Referrals

In 2025, United’s refer-a-friend program offers generous rewards:

This makes it easy to earn free flights just by inviting a few friends or family members!

How Referred Friends Benefit from the Program

Your friends also win when they use your referral:

• Sign-up bonus miles (e.g., 50,000–70,000 after meeting a spending threshold)

• Access to United Club passes, priority boarding, and no foreign transaction fees (on select cards)

• Easier path to earning Premier status

This added incentive helps ensure that your friend follows through with the application.

United Credit Cards and Referral Bonuses

The United credit cards that are usually eligible include:

• United Explorer Card

• United Quest Card

• United Club Infinite Card

• United Gateway Card

Each card has different benefits and sign-up bonuses. Some include free checked bags, travel insurance, or bonus miles on everyday spending categories.

Tips to Maximize Your Referral Earnings

Here are some smart ways to make the most of your referrals:

• Time it during big promos (holidays or special campaigns)

• Post your referral link in travel forums or groups

• Write a quick testimonial or success story with your link

• Use email subject lines like: “Fly Free in 2025 – Here’s How”

These strategies can boost your referral conversion rate.

Tracking Your Referral Status and Rewards

You can track everything in your United MileagePlus account:

• Go to the “Track My Referrals” tab

• See who has signed up

• Confirm when your bonus miles post

It usually takes 6–8 weeks after the card approval for your miles to show up.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t fall into these traps:

• Referring someone who already has a United card

• Not using the exact referral link

• Missing the minimum spending window

• Exceeding the annual referral bonus cap

Always double-check the fine print before sending your referral link.

United’s Terms and Conditions Explained

While the program is simple, United enforces specific terms and conditions that all participants must follow:

• Referral links expire after a certain period (typically 30 days)

• Only one referral bonus per friend (no duplicates)

• Bonus miles may be forfeited if your friend doesn’t meet eligibility

• You can’t earn more than the yearly referral cap, even if more friends apply

It’s essential to read the latest T&Cs directly on the United MileagePlus Refer a Friend page, as terms can change based on promotional periods or regulatory requirements.

How It Compares to Other Airline Referral Programs

Let’s compare United’s program to similar offerings:

Takeaway: United has one of the most consistent and generous referral systems, especially for casual flyers and travel enthusiasts.

Real Customer Experiences and Testimonials

Here’s what users are saying:

“I referred my brother and earned 20,000 miles in less than a month. We’re planning a trip to Hawaii with the savings!” – Megan J., Denver

“I never thought sharing a simple link on Facebook would get me a free flight. Highly recommend it!” – David P., Chicago

“I’m a college student who got referred by a friend. The welcome bonus helped me fly home for the holidays.” – Alicia R., Austin

These experiences highlight the tangible value the referral program can offer.

Is It Worth Referring Friends in 2025?

Absolutely! In 2025, United’s referral incentives are more generous than ever. Here’s why it’s worth your time:

• Easy to share links with zero cost

• Bonus miles can lead to free domestic or international flights

• New cardholders get incredible welcome offers

• Great way to introduce others to the MileagePlus ecosystem

If you’re a frequent flyer or even an occasional traveler, it’s one of the fastest ways to boost your mileage balance.

How to Get Started with Your First Referral

Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit United’s official referral page via your MileagePlus account

2. Select your eligible credit card (usually Chase-issued)

3. Copy your referral link

4. Share it directly with friends or post it strategically

5. Keep an eye on your referral dashboard for status updates

Starting today could mean earning thousands of miles by the end of the month.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How long does it take to receive referral bonus miles?
A: Usually between 6–8 weeks after your friend is approved and meets the spending requirement.

Q2: Can I refer someone outside the U.S.?
A: No, referrals are generally only valid for U.S. residents applying for a United credit card.

Q3: What if my friend already has a United card?
A: Unfortunately, referrals don’t work if the friend has or had the same card in the past 24 months.

Q4: Can I refer more than five friends?
A: Yes, but you’ll only receive referral bonuses for up to 50,000 miles annually.

Q5: Are there any hidden fees or penalties?
A: No hidden fees, but make sure your friend qualifies and meets the spending threshold to avoid forfeiting the bonus.

Q6: Do referral bonuses count toward Premier Status?
A: No, they are redeemable miles only—not Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs).

Conclusion: Boost Your Miles Easily with United’s Referral Program

The United MileagePlus Refer a Friend program is a smart, easy, and rewarding way to grow your miles stash. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just planning your next big trip, referring friends could cover the cost of a flight—or even more.

Start today by logging into your MileagePlus account and sharing your referral link.
Your next getaway might be just one referral away!