Can You Use Points And Money On Southwest Airlines?

Yes, you can use points and money on Southwest Airlines through their Cash + Points program. This flexibility allows Rapid Rewards members to redeem flights by combining their points with other accepted forms of payment. At money-central.com, we provide expert guidance on leveraging airline loyalty programs like Southwest Rapid Rewards to maximize your travel savings. Learn how to optimize your points and cash strategy for affordable travel.

1. What Is Southwest Airlines’ Cash + Points Program?

Southwest Airlines’ Cash + Points program enables Rapid Rewards members to use a combination of points and cash to purchase flights. This provides increased flexibility in redeeming points, allowing members to book flights even if they don’t have enough points to cover the entire fare.

The Cash + Points program enhances travel accessibility by enabling members to redeem points for flights more flexibly. This program lets you stretch your Rapid Rewards points further, combining them with cash to secure your desired flights. According to a study by New York University’s Stern School of Business, airline loyalty programs that offer flexible redemption options like Cash + Points tend to increase customer satisfaction and engagement. Southwest has consistently ranked high in customer satisfaction surveys, and Cash + Points is one way Southwest continues to innovate its Rapid Rewards program.

1.1. Key Benefits of the Cash + Points Program

Flexibility: Combine points with cash to book flights.
Accessibility: Book flights even with fewer points.
Redemption Options: Multiple point redemption options starting from 1,000 points.

1.2. How to Access Cash + Points

To use Cash + Points, select “Dollars” during the booking process on Southwest.com or the Southwest mobile app. The Cash + Points option appears on the “Passenger & Payment Info” page, where you can choose to pay with “Cash + Points and other forms of payment”. Note that this option is not available through the “Points” booking flow.

1.3. Booking Process

Select “Dollars”: Start your flight search and select the “Dollars” option.
Payment Options: On the payment page, choose “Cash + Points and other forms of payment”.
Choose Redemption: Select from the available point redemption options.

2. How Does Southwest Cash + Points Work?

The Southwest Cash + Points program is designed to provide Rapid Rewards members with a flexible way to use their points for flight bookings. Here’s a detailed explanation of how it works.

The Cash + Points program simplifies flight bookings by allowing you to combine your Rapid Rewards points with cash. This program is beneficial when you want to book a flight but don’t have enough points to cover the entire cost. According to a 2024 report by Forbes Advisor, programs like Southwest’s Cash + Points can significantly enhance the value of airline loyalty programs by offering more redemption choices. This flexibility ensures that members can always find a way to use their points, even if they are short on the total amount required.

2.1. Eligibility for Cash + Points

Active Account: You must have an active Rapid Rewards account.
Minimum Points: You need enough Rapid Rewards points to cover the minimum redemption option available.

2.2. Booking with Cash + Points

Start Booking: Begin your flight booking on Southwest.com or via the Southwest mobile app.
Select “Dollars”: Make sure to choose the “Dollars” option instead of “Points” when searching for flights.
Payment Page: On the “Passenger & Payment Info” page, you will see the “Cash + Points and other forms of payment” section.
Redemption Options: The system will present you with up to five options for point redemptions, starting from as low as 1,000 points. The minimum redemption option for your selected flight(s) will be displayed on the screen.
Complete Booking: Select your preferred Cash + Points option and complete the booking by paying the remaining balance with an eligible payment method.

2.3. Eligible Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards
Southwest gift cards
Flight credits
Transferable Flight Credits™

2.4. Points Redemption Value

The number of points required when paying with Cash + Points can vary based on several factors:

Destination
Time of travel
Day of travel
Demand
Fare class
Point redemption rate

The number of points and the value of such points available for redemption with Cash + Points bookings will be clearly displayed on the Southwest website when you select Cash + Points as your payment method.

2.5. Limitations

Initial Booking Only: Cash + Points can only be used for initial bookings to purchase airfare.
Not for Fare Increases: If you make changes to your flight that result in a fare increase, you cannot use Cash + Points to cover the additional cost. You’ll need to use another eligible form of payment.
Single Account: Points used for a Cash + Points booking must come from a single Rapid Rewards account. You cannot combine points from multiple accounts for a single Cash + Points transaction.

2.6. Earning Points and Status

The rules for earning Rapid Rewards points and tier qualifying points (TQPs) vary depending on when the final flight in your booking is completed:

Flights Completed Before 2:59 AM CST on 1/1/25: Cash + Points bookings will not earn Rapid Rewards points, Rapid Rewards Business points, tier qualifying points for A-List or A-List Preferred status, or Companion Pass qualifying points.
Flights Completed After 3:00 AM CST on 1/1/25: The cash portion of a Cash + Points booking will earn Rapid Rewards points, Rapid Rewards Business points, tier qualifying points for A-List or A-List Preferred status, and Companion Pass qualifying points.
Mixed Bookings: If your booking includes flights both before and after 3:00 AM CST on 1/1/25, the cash portion of the booking will earn points and TQPs for all flights in your booking.

2.7. Cancellation and Refunds

When you cancel a reservation booked with Cash + Points, the following rules apply:

Points Refund: The points used in the booking will be credited back to your Rapid Rewards account.
Taxes and Fees: Any unused taxes and fees associated with the Cash + Points reservation can be refunded either as a method-of-payment refund or as a flight credit for future use.
Other Payment Methods: If you used other forms of payment in addition to Cash + Points, those amounts will be refunded according to standard refundability rules.

2.8. Additional Tips

Check Redemption Options: Always check the available Cash + Points redemption options to find the best value for your points.
Monitor Fare Changes: Be aware that changes to your flight can affect the fare, and Cash + Points cannot be used to cover any fare increases.
Read Terms and Conditions: Review the full terms and conditions of the Cash + Points program on the Southwest website to fully understand the rules and restrictions.

3. What Payment Methods Can Be Used With Southwest Cash + Points?

When using Southwest’s Cash + Points program, you can combine your Rapid Rewards points with several other eligible payment methods to cover the remaining cost of your flight. Understanding these options can help you maximize your booking flexibility.

Southwest Airlines provides multiple payment options for the Cash + Points program, ensuring that you can conveniently cover the cash portion of your flight. According to a recent study by the Points Guy, airlines that offer diverse payment methods see higher customer satisfaction rates. Southwest’s commitment to providing various payment options reflects their focus on customer convenience and accessibility.

3.1. Credit and Debit Cards

The most common and straightforward payment method is using a credit or debit card. Southwest accepts major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Using a credit card may also offer additional benefits such as travel insurance or rewards points from your card issuer.

3.2. Southwest Gift Cards

Southwest gift cards are another popular option for covering the cash portion of your Cash + Points booking. These gift cards can be purchased online, at various retail locations, or sometimes earned through promotions.

3.3. Flight Credits

If you have flight credits from previously canceled or changed flights, you can use them in combination with Cash + Points. Flight credits are typically tied to the passenger who originally booked the flight and have an expiration date, so be sure to check the terms and conditions.

3.4. Transferable Flight Credits™

Southwest also offers Transferable Flight Credits™, which provide even more flexibility. These credits allow you to transfer the value of a canceled flight to another person, who can then use it towards their Cash + Points booking.

3.5. Rapid Rewards Credit Card Benefits

If you are a Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember, using your card for the cash portion of a Cash + Points booking can earn you additional points. According to the card’s terms, you will earn points per $1 spent on Southwest purchases, further maximizing the value of your booking.

3.6. Payment Combinations

Southwest allows you to combine multiple payment methods to cover the cash portion of your booking. For example, you can use a combination of a Southwest gift card and a credit card if needed.

3.7. How to Use Different Payment Methods

During Booking: When you get to the payment page on Southwest.com or the mobile app, select “Cash + Points and other forms of payment.”
Enter Details: Enter the details for your chosen payment methods, such as credit card information or gift card numbers.
Combine Methods: If using multiple methods, you’ll have the option to split the payment accordingly.
Confirm: Review your payment details and confirm your booking.

3.8. Restrictions

Initial Booking: Cash + Points can only be used for the initial booking and not for any fare increases due to changes.
One Account: Points must come from a single Rapid Rewards account.
Availability: Payment options may vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the Southwest website for the most current information.

4. Can You Earn Points And Qualifying Flights With Cash + Points?

The ability to earn points and qualifying flights when using Cash + Points on Southwest Airlines depends on the completion date of your travel. Southwest has specific rules regarding this that you should be aware of.

Understanding how Cash + Points bookings affect your ability to earn Rapid Rewards points and qualifying flights is crucial for maximizing the value of the program. A recent analysis by NerdWallet highlights that frequent flyers often prioritize earning points and status over immediate savings. Southwest’s policy ensures that you can still benefit from your Cash + Points bookings by earning towards future rewards and status, provided your travel dates align with their guidelines.

4.1. Earning Points and Status Before January 1, 2025

For bookings with a final flight completed before 2:59 AM Central Standard Time (CST) on January 1, 2025, Cash + Points bookings will not earn the following:

Rapid Rewards points
Rapid Rewards Business points
Tier qualifying points (TQPs) for A-List or A-List Preferred status
Companion Pass qualifying points

This means that if your travel is completed before this date, you will not receive any points or credit toward elite status for your Cash + Points booking.

4.2. Earning Points and Status After January 1, 2025

For bookings with a final flight completed after 3:00 AM CST on January 1, 2025, the cash portion of a Cash + Points booking will earn:

Rapid Rewards points
Rapid Rewards Business points
Tier qualifying points (TQPs) for A-List or A-List Preferred status
Companion Pass qualifying points

In this case, you will earn points and status credit based on the amount of cash you paid for the flight, not the entire fare.

4.3. Mixed Bookings

If your booking includes flights both before and after the critical date (January 1, 2025), the following rule applies:

The cash portion of the booking will earn Rapid Rewards points, Rapid Rewards Business points, tier qualifying points, and Companion Pass qualifying points on all flights in your booking.

This is a significant benefit, as it means that even if part of your travel occurs before the cutoff date, you can still earn points and status credit for the entire itinerary if at least one flight is after January 1, 2025.

4.4. Impact on Qualifying Flights

Flights paid for with Cash + Points do count toward your qualifying one-way flights for A-List, A-List Preferred, or Companion Pass status when flown, regardless of the booking date. This is an important consideration for those pursuing elite status, as it allows you to reach your goals more quickly.

4.5. How to Maximize Your Earnings

Plan Travel Dates Carefully: If possible, plan your travel to ensure that your final flight is completed after January 1, 2025, to maximize your points and status earnings.
Track Your Progress: Keep track of your qualifying flights and points to ensure you are on track to reach your desired status level.
Use a Rapid Rewards Credit Card: Pay for the cash portion of your Cash + Points booking with a Rapid Rewards credit card to earn additional points on your purchase.
Check for Promotions: Keep an eye out for any promotions or bonus offers that could further boost your earnings.

4.6. Summary Table

Booking Completion Date	Points Earned	TQPs Earned	Companion Pass Points	Qualifying Flights
Before January 1, 2025	No	No	No	Yes
After January 1, 2025	Yes (Cash)	Yes (Cash)	Yes (Cash)	Yes
Mixed (Before & After Date)	Yes (Cash)	Yes (Cash)	Yes (Cash)	Yes

5. What Happens If You Cancel A Southwest Flight Booked With Cash + Points?

Canceling a Southwest flight booked with Cash + Points involves specific procedures regarding the refund of points and cash. Understanding these policies is crucial to managing your travel plans effectively.

Knowing the cancellation policies for Cash + Points bookings is essential for any Rapid Rewards member. According to a recent report by the U.S. Department of Transportation, clear and transparent cancellation policies are a key factor in customer satisfaction. Southwest’s approach to refunds and credits ensures that customers are treated fairly when unforeseen circumstances require them to change their travel plans.

5.1. Point Refunds

When you cancel a reservation booked with Cash + Points, the Rapid Rewards points used for the booking are credited back to the Rapid Rewards account from which they were redeemed. This ensures that your points are not lost and can be used for future travel.

5.2. Refund of Taxes and Fees

Any unused taxes and fees associated with your Cash + Points reservation can be refunded in one of two ways:

Method-of-Payment Refund: The taxes and fees can be refunded back to the original payment method used for the booking.
Flight Credit: Alternatively, you can choose to receive a flight credit for the value of the taxes and fees. This credit can be used towards a future flight booking with Southwest.

The choice between a refund to the original payment method and a flight credit gives you flexibility based on your future travel plans.

5.3. Refunds for Other Payment Methods

If you used other forms of payment in addition to Cash + Points (such as a credit card or gift card), those amounts will be refunded according to Southwest’s standard refundability rules. The specific terms depend on the type of fare you purchased (e.g., Wanna Get Away, Anytime, Business Select).

5.4. How to Cancel and Receive Refunds

Cancel Your Flight: You can cancel your flight through the Southwest website or mobile app.
Check Refund Options: Review the available refund options for your booking, including the choice between a method-of-payment refund and a flight credit for taxes and fees.
Follow Instructions: Follow the prompts to complete the cancellation and choose your preferred refund method.

5.5. Important Considerations

Refund Timing: The time it takes to receive a refund can vary depending on the payment method. Credit card refunds typically take a few business days to process.
Flight Credit Expiration: If you choose a flight credit, be aware of its expiration date. Make sure to use the credit before it expires.
Fare Rules: Familiarize yourself with the fare rules associated with your booking, as they can impact the refund options available to you.

5.6. Example Scenario

Let’s say you booked a flight using 10,000 Rapid Rewards points and $50 in cash (covering taxes and fees). If you cancel the flight:

10,000 points will be returned to your Rapid Rewards account.
You can choose to have the $50 refunded to your credit card or receive a $50 flight credit.

5.7. Useful Resources

For more detailed information on refunds and cancellations, you can visit Southwest’s help center: https://support.southwest.com/helpcenter/s/pathway/a1F5G00000cLOqmUAG/travel-funds-refunds-reimbursements.

5.8. Summary Table

Refund Type	Details
Points	Returned to the Rapid Rewards account used for booking.
Taxes and Fees	Option to refund to the original payment method or receive as a flight credit.
Other Payments	Refunded according to standard fare rules.
Cancellation Steps	Cancel via Southwest website or app, review refund options, and follow the prompts to complete the cancellation and choose your preferred refund method.

6. Is It Possible To Add A Companion With Cash + Points Booking?

Yes, you can add a companion to your reservation when booking with Cash + Points on Southwest Airlines. This capability ensures that you can still take advantage of the Companion Pass benefit while using the Cash + Points payment method.

The ability to add a companion to a Cash + Points booking is a valuable feature for Rapid Rewards members who have earned the Companion Pass. According to a recent survey by Condé Nast Traveler, the Companion Pass is one of the most sought-after benefits in the airline loyalty industry. Southwest’s policy of allowing companions on Cash + Points bookings enhances the value of both programs, providing significant savings for travelers.

6.1. How to Add a Companion

The process for adding a companion to a Cash + Points booking is similar to adding a companion to a booking made entirely with points or cash. Here’s how it works:

Book Your Flight: First, book your flight using the Cash + Points method on Southwest.com or the mobile app.
Locate Your Confirmation: Find your flight confirmation details.
Add Companion: Use your Rapid Rewards account to add your designated companion to the reservation.
Pay Taxes and Fees: You will need to pay the taxes and fees for your companion’s ticket. These can be paid using a credit card, Southwest gift card, or flight credit.

6.2. Eligibility Requirements

To add a companion, you must have a valid Southwest Companion Pass. The Companion Pass allows you to designate one person to fly with you for free (excluding taxes and fees) on all Southwest flights.

6.3. Key Considerations

Companion Pass Validity: Ensure your Companion Pass is valid for the dates of travel. The pass typically lasts for the remainder of the year in which it is earned, plus the entire following year.
Designated Companion: You can change your designated companion up to three times per calendar year.
Taxes and Fees: Remember that while the companion flies for free, you are responsible for paying their taxes and fees, which start at $5.60 each way for domestic flights.

6.4. Step-by-Step Example

Book Your Flight: You book a flight from New York to Chicago using Cash + Points.
Access Your Account: Log in to your Rapid Rewards account and find your reservation.
Add Companion: Select the option to add your Companion Pass holder to the booking.
Pay Fees: Pay the $5.60 security fee for your companion.
Confirmation: Confirm that your companion is added to the flight.

6.5. Benefits of Using Companion Pass with Cash + Points

Cost Savings: Significantly reduce travel costs by only paying taxes and fees for your companion.
Flexibility: Combine the benefits of Cash + Points with the Companion Pass for maximum travel flexibility.
Accessibility: Make travel more accessible by using points and cash for your ticket and bringing a companion for free.

6.6. Restrictions

Companion Pass Required: You must have a valid Companion Pass to take advantage of this benefit.
Taxes and Fees: The companion is not entirely free; you must pay the applicable taxes and fees.
Booking Order: You must book your flight first before adding your companion.

6.7. Summary Table

Benefit	Details
Companion Pass	Allows a designated person to fly with you for free (excluding taxes and fees).
Cash + Points	Combines points and cash to book flights.
Adding a Companion	Book your flight first, then add your companion through your Rapid Rewards account and pay their taxes and fees.
Key Consideration	Ensure your Companion Pass is valid and you pay the required taxes and fees for your companion.

7. Can Southwest Business Customers Redeem Rapid Rewards Business Points Using Cash + Points?

Yes, Southwest Business customers enrolled in Rapid Rewards Business can redeem their Business points using the Cash + Points option. This provides added flexibility for businesses looking to manage their travel expenses efficiently.

The ability for business customers to use Rapid Rewards Business points with Cash + Points is a significant advantage for companies managing travel budgets. According to a study by Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), businesses are increasingly looking for ways to maximize the value of their travel spending. Southwest’s offering allows companies to leverage their accumulated points for cost-effective travel solutions, enhancing overall business travel efficiency.

7.1. Eligibility for Rapid Rewards Business Points

To use Rapid Rewards Business points for Cash + Points bookings, the company must be enrolled in the Rapid Rewards Business program. This program allows businesses to earn points on employee travel, which can then be redeemed for future flights and other travel-related expenses.

7.2. How to Redeem Business Points

Log in as Travel Manager: To redeem Rapid Rewards Business points, you must be logged in to SWABIZ® as a travel manager. SWABIZ is Southwest’s online portal designed for business travel management.
Select Flights: Choose your desired flights and proceed to the payment page.
Choose Cash + Points: Select the Cash + Points option and specify the amount of Business points you want to use for the booking.
Complete Payment: Pay the remaining balance using an accepted payment method, such as a credit card or Southwest gift card.

7.3. Important Notes

Traveler vs. Travel Manager: Only logged-in travel managers can use Rapid Rewards Business points to book using Cash + Points. If you are logged in as a traveler and your personal Rapid Rewards account is attached to your company’s Corporate Identification (CID) number, points redeemed using Cash + Points will be deducted from your personal Rapid Rewards account, not the company’s.
SWABIZ® Access: Ensure you have the appropriate travel manager access to SWABIZ® to manage and redeem Business points.

7.4. Benefits of Using Rapid Rewards Business Points

Cost Savings: Reduce your company’s travel expenses by using accumulated Business points.
Flexibility: Combine points with cash for more booking options, even if you don’t have enough points to cover the entire fare.
Easy Management: SWABIZ® provides a straightforward platform for managing and redeeming Business points.

7.5. Restrictions

Travel Manager Access: Only travel managers logged into SWABIZ® can redeem Business points.
Personal vs. Business Points: Ensure you are not logged in as a traveler using your personal Rapid Rewards account when trying to redeem Business points.
Booking Channels: Cash + Points is only available on Southwest.com, SWABIZ®, and the Southwest mobile app.

7.6. Step-by-Step Example

Log in to SWABIZ®: A travel manager logs into SWABIZ® with their credentials.
Select Flights: The travel manager selects flights for an employee’s business trip.
Choose Cash + Points: On the payment page, the travel manager selects the Cash + Points option and chooses to use Business points.
Complete Booking: The travel manager pays the remaining balance with the company’s credit card and completes the booking.

7.7. Summary Table

Feature	Details
Rapid Rewards Business	Program allowing businesses to earn points on employee travel.
SWABIZ®	Southwest’s online portal for business travel management.
Travel Manager	Individual authorized to manage and redeem Business points.
Redeeming Business Points	Log in to SWABIZ® as a travel manager, select Cash + Points, and use Business points for the booking.
Key Consideration	Ensure you are logged in as a travel manager and not a traveler to use Business points correctly.

8. Is Cash + Points Available For All Southwest Fares?

Yes, Cash + Points is available for all Southwest fares, including Business Select®, Anytime, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Wanna Get Away®. This provides flexibility for Rapid Rewards members, allowing them to use their points in combination with cash regardless of the fare type they choose.

The broad applicability of Cash + Points across all fare types enhances the value of the Rapid Rewards program for all members. According to a study by J.D. Power, customer satisfaction with airline loyalty programs is closely tied to the flexibility and ease of redemption options. By making Cash + Points available for all fares, Southwest ensures that members can maximize their points regardless of their travel preferences or budget.

8.1. Fare Types Eligible for Cash + Points

Business Select®: This fare offers priority boarding, a premium drink, and bonus Rapid Rewards points.
Anytime: Provides more flexibility with no change fees and same-day standby options.
Wanna Get Away Plus®: Includes transferable flight credits, same-day change options, and bonus Rapid Rewards points.
Wanna Get Away®: Southwest’s most affordable fare, with some restrictions on changes and cancellations.

8.2. How to Use Cash + Points with Different Fares

Select Your Fare: Begin by selecting your desired fare type on Southwest.com or the Southwest mobile app.
Proceed to Payment: Continue to the payment page.
Choose Cash + Points: Select the Cash + Points option and specify the amount of points you want to use for the booking.
Complete Payment: Pay the remaining balance using an accepted payment method.

8.3. Benefits of Using Cash + Points Across All Fares

Flexibility: Use points and cash for any fare type, providing more options for booking flights that fit your budget and travel needs.
Accessibility: Make higher-priced fares more accessible by using points to lower the overall cost.
Maximizing Value: Maximize the value of your Rapid Rewards points by using them for flights that might otherwise be out of reach.

8.4. Restrictions

Availability: The availability of Cash + Points options may vary depending on the specific flight and fare.
Minimum Points: You must have enough points in your account to cover the minimum redemption option.
Initial Booking: Cash + Points can only be used for the initial booking and not for any fare increases due to changes.

8.5. Example Scenarios

Business Traveler: A business traveler wants to book a Business Select® fare for a last-minute trip. They use Cash + Points to reduce the upfront cost and enjoy the benefits of priority boarding and a premium drink.
Budget Traveler: A family wants to book a Wanna Get Away® fare for a vacation. They use Cash + Points to make the fare even more affordable, allowing them to travel without breaking the bank.
Flexible Traveler: Someone wants to book an Anytime fare for its flexible change options. They use Cash + Points to lower the cost while retaining the ability to change their flight without fees.

8.6. Summary Table

Fare Type	Description	Cash + Points Eligible	Benefits
Business Select®	Priority boarding, premium drink, bonus points.	Yes	Ideal for business travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
Anytime	Flexible changes, same-day standby.	Yes	Perfect for travelers who need flexibility in their travel plans.
Wanna Get Away Plus®	Transferable flight credits, same-day change options, bonus points.	Yes	Great for travelers who want extra flexibility and added benefits.
Wanna Get Away®	Southwest’s most affordable fare with some restrictions.	Yes	Best for budget-conscious travelers who can plan their trips in advance and are less likely to need changes.

9. Can You Use Cash + Points To Pay For Bookings Through SPS And GDS?

No, at this time, Cash + Points is not available for use on bookings made through Southwest Partner Services (SPS) or Global Distribution Systems (GDS). The Cash + Points option is exclusively available for bookings made on Southwest.com, SWABIZ.com, and the Southwest mobile app.

The limited availability of Cash + Points to specific booking channels may be due to technical or contractual limitations. According to a report by Phocuswright, airlines often prioritize direct booking channels to maintain control over inventory and pricing. While this may restrict access to Cash + Points for some users, Southwest continues to focus on enhancing the user experience through its direct channels.

9.1. Available Booking Channels for Cash + Points

Southwest.com: The primary website for booking Southwest flights and accessing the Cash + Points option.
SWABIZ.com: Southwest’s online portal for business travel management, where Rapid Rewards Business points can be redeemed using Cash + Points by travel managers.
Southwest Mobile App: The mobile app provides a convenient way to book flights and use Cash + Points on the go.

9.2. Alternative Booking Methods

If you typically book through SPS or GDS, you will need to use one of the available booking channels (Southwest.com, SWABIZ.com, or the Southwest mobile app) to take advantage of Cash + Points.

9.3. Reasons for Limited Availability

Technical Integration: Integrating Cash + Points functionality into SPS and GDS may require significant technical updates and coordination.
Contractual Agreements: Southwest may have contractual agreements with SPS and GDS providers that limit the availability of certain features.
Direct Booking Preference: Airlines often prefer direct bookings to maintain control over pricing and customer relationships.

9.4. How to Book with Cash + Points on Available Channels

Visit Southwest.com, SWABIZ.com, or Use the Mobile App: Go to one of the eligible booking channels.
Search for Flights: Enter your travel details and search for available flights.
Select “Dollars”: Choose the “Dollars” option to view fares in cash.
Proceed to Payment: On the payment page, select the Cash + Points option.
Complete Booking: Follow the prompts to complete your booking using a combination of points and cash.

9.5. Tips for Booking

Check for Promotions: Keep an eye out for any promotions or bonus offers that may be available when booking through Southwest’s direct channels.
Use a Rapid Rewards Credit Card: Pay for the cash portion of your booking with a Rapid Rewards credit card to earn additional points on your purchase.
Compare Options: Compare the cost of booking through different channels to ensure you are getting the best deal.

9.6. Summary Table

Booking Channel	Cash + Points Available	Notes
Southwest.com	Yes	Primary website for booking flights and using Cash + Points.
SWABIZ.com	Yes	Business travel portal; travel managers can use Rapid Rewards Business points with Cash + Points.
Southwest Mobile App	Yes	Convenient for booking flights and using Cash + Points on the go.
Southwest Partner Services (SPS)	No	Cash + Points not available.
Global Distribution Systems (GDS)	No	Cash + Points not available.

10. Are There Any Restrictions On Using Cash + Points?

Yes, there are several restrictions on using Cash + Points with Southwest Airlines. Understanding these limitations can help you maximize the value of the program and avoid any surprises when booking your flights.

Knowing the restrictions associated with Cash + Points is crucial for effectively utilizing the Rapid Rewards program. According to a consumer report by Which?, transparency in loyalty program terms and conditions is essential for building trust and satisfaction. Southwest’s Cash + Points program, while flexible, has specific rules that members should be aware of to ensure a smooth booking experience.

10.1. Eligibility Requirements

Active Rapid Rewards Account: You must have an active Rapid Rewards account to use Cash + Points.
Minimum Points Balance: You need enough points in your account to cover the minimum redemption option presented during the booking process. The minimum redemption is usually 1,000 points, but it can vary depending on the flight and number of passengers.

10.2. Booking Channels

Limited Availability: Cash + Points is only available for bookings made on Southwest.com, SWABIZ.com, and the Southwest mobile app. It is not available through Southwest Partner Services (SPS) or Global Distribution Systems (GDS).

10.3. Fare Types and Combinations

Applicable to All Fares: Cash + Points can be used for all Southwest fares, including Business Select®, Anytime, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Wanna Get Away®.
Initial Booking Only: Cash + Points can only be applied to initial bookings and not for any fare increases resulting from changes to your flight.

10.4. Earning Points and Status

Varying Rules: The rules for earning Rapid Rewards points and tier qualifying points (TQPs) depend on the date of your final flight.
- For flights completed before 2:59 AM CST on January 1, 2025