Sign up for a Mileage Plus account on the United website. You will be automatically added to the company's mailing list. This list will keep you informed of promotions for Mileage Plus members.
Apply for a Mileage Plus credit card on the website while a promotion is in effect, so as to get the most benefits. These benefits will put you in the best position to cover the fee associated with having the credit card account.
Use the signing bonus that Mileage Plus awards upon signing up for a new card to cover part of the annual fee.
Use your card for purchases as often as possible. United designates certain retail companies as partners, and when you shop with those partners, you receive more than the normal number of miles per dollar spent. Check the Mileage Plus account page for this information because it can change.
Spend a designated amount initially using the card, and Mileage Plus will award a designated number of miles and a United gift card, which can be used to cover part of the annual fee.
Cash in some of the miles you have earned throughout the year to cover the cost of the annual fee.
