If you’re a business traveler or professional looking for an exclusive credit card that maximizes travel rewards, the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card is a solid choice. This card is tailored for those who frequently travel with Delta, providing premium benefits and a robust mileage-earning structure.

With access to airport lounges, an annual companion ticket, and several other travel perks, this card is designed to make every trip more convenient and rewarding. Below is an in-depth look at the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card’s features, including its advantages, potential drawbacks, and eligibility requirements.

Key information about the credit card

How does the annual fee work?

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card has an annual fee of $650. This fee may seem high, but it provides extensive benefits that can outweigh the cost for frequent travelers. The fee is paid upfront and cannot be split into installments.

Although there is no waiver option for the annual fee, the value of benefits, such as airport lounge access, ride share credits, and an annual companion certificate, offers substantial savings, potentially justifying the cost for regular Delta users.

How is the credit limit determined?

The credit limit for the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card is set by American Express based on the business and personal financial situation of the applicant. Factors such as creditworthiness, business revenue, and financial history influence the assigned limit.

Unlike prepaid cards, where users determine the limit by the amount they load onto the card, American Express evaluates each application individually to set a limit that aligns with the cardholder’s spending profile and credit risk.

Advantages of the credit card

• 3X Miles on Delta purchases: Earn three miles per dollar on eligible purchases made directly with Delta, maximizing mileage accumulation for Delta loyalists.
• 1.5X Miles on select business expenses: Receive 1.5 miles per dollar on qualifying transit, U.S. shipping, and office supply store purchases, making it a strong choice for business-related spending.
• $240 annual Resy credit: Enjoy up to $20 monthly in statement credits on eligible purchases at U.S. Resy restaurants, enhancing dining experiences with Global Dining Access.
• $120 rideshare credit: Receive $10 back monthly on U.S. rideshare purchases, perfect for airport transfers and business travel within the U.S.
• Annual companion certificate: With each renewal, cardholders receive a Companion Certificate for a round-trip flight within the U.S. or certain international destinations, valid in First Class, Delta Comfort+, or Main Cabin.
• Complimentary lounge access: Get complimentary access to Delta Sky Club® and The Centurion® Lounge when flying Delta, along with four guest passes per year.

Standout advantage

One of the standout features of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card is the Companion Certificate, which grants cardholders a free companion ticket each year upon card renewal. This certificate is valid for round-trip flights in First Class, Delta Comfort+, or Main Cabin, and it can be used for flights within the U.S. or select international destinations.

Disadvantages

• High annual fee: At $650, the annual fee is relatively high compared to other business cards.
• Limited rewards categories: The 3X miles are primarily focused on Delta purchases, so cardholders may not earn as many points on non-travel spending.
• Spending requirements for some benefits: Certain benefits require meeting specific spending thresholds, which may not suit all users.
• Restrictions on lounge access: Starting February 2025, lounge access will be limited to 15 visits per year unless a $75,000 spending threshold is met.
• Availability of certain benefits: Some benefits, like Hertz President’s Circle® status, require enrollment and may have restrictions based on location and availability.

A standout disadvantage

The high annual fee is one of the main drawbacks of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card. At $650, this fee may not be justifiable for cardholders who don’t travel with Delta frequently enough to take advantage of the extensive perks.

Although the benefits may offer great value, those who only occasionally use Delta flights or don’t need lounge access may find the fee outweighs the benefits, making this card better suited for frequent Delta travelers.

Who can apply for this card?

To apply for the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card, applicants must meet several criteria. The minimum age requirement is 18, and applicants should have a business or demonstrate self-employment income, as this card is intended for business use.

This card may not be available to those with negative credit history, as a positive credit profile is often necessary for approval. Income verification may also be required to demonstrate the ability to manage the credit line associated with the card. Since this card targets business owners and frequent travelers, applicants should be prepared to meet these criteria to be eligible.

How to apply for the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card

For the website

To apply online, visit the official American Express website and navigate to the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card page. From here, you can click on the “Apply Now” button to begin the application. The online form will ask for personal information, business details, and financial information, which American Express will use to assess eligibility and determine the credit limit.

After submitting the application, you may receive an instant decision or be contacted for additional information. American Express often provides pre-qualification options online, so applicants can check their eligibility without affecting their credit score.

Through the app

To apply through the American Express mobile app, start by downloading the app from your device’s app store if you haven’t already. Once installed, log in to your American Express account or create a new one. Within the app, navigate to the business credit cards section and select the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card.

The application process within the app is similar to the online process, requiring details about your business and finances. You may receive a decision shortly after completing the application. The mobile app also allows users to track their application status and receive updates directly.

At the branch

Applying at an American Express branch location is a convenient option for those who prefer a more personalized experience. To start, find a local branch and schedule a visit if possible. During the visit, an American Express representative can guide you through the application process, answer questions about the card’s benefits, and provide assistance with any documents required.

This in-person approach may be helpful for applicants who want more guidance and a better understanding of the card’s advantages before committing. After completing the application, the representative will provide an estimated timeline for receiving a decision and the next steps if approved.