The Delta SkyMiles Reserve, an Amex card, charges $650 and returns it through Delta Sky Club access, an annual companion certificate good in First Class, and credits, plus a boost toward Medallion status. It fits frequent Delta flyers who use the lounges and the companion certificate. Figures are as of 2026; confirm current terms at Delta and American Express.
What the Delta Reserve earns
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Delta purchases | 3x miles |
| Everything else | 1x miles |
The credits and perks
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The value is in lounge access, the companion certificate, and status, not a big cash-back stack.
| Credit or perk | Value | How it works |
|---|---|---|
| Delta Sky Club | 15 visits a year | Unlimited after $75,000 in annual spend, plus guest passes |
| Companion certificate | 1 a year | Good in Delta First, Delta Comfort, or Main after card renewal |
| Resy dining | $240 | Up to $20 a month at U.S. Resy restaurants |
| Rideshare | $120 | Up to $10 a month on U.S. rideshare |
| Global Entry or TSA PreCheck | Credit | Application fee reimbursed every 4 years |
The fee math
The $650 fee pays off for a Delta loyalist. A single good use of the companion certificate in First or Delta Comfort can be worth several hundred dollars, and the Sky Club access and Resy and rideshare credits add up. A light Delta flyer will not clear the fee.
Who it fits and who it does not
It fits people who fly Delta often, will use the Sky Clubs and the companion certificate, and want a head start toward Medallion status. It does not fit an occasional Delta flyer or someone who books whatever airline is cheapest, who is better off with a flexible travel card.
Delta SkyMiles Reserve
Earn rates, credits, and the fee are current as of 2026. Confirm the current welcome offer at the issuer before you apply.
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Checked bags: as of 2026, the Delta SkyMiles Reserve includes your first and second checked bag free on Delta-operated flights, for you and others on the same reservation. Confirm the current baggage benefit with Delta.
FAQ
Is the Delta SkyMiles Reserve worth it in 2026?
Yes for frequent Delta flyers who will use the Sky Club access and the companion certificate, which alone can be worth several hundred dollars. It is not worth the $650 fee for occasional Delta flyers.
What is the Delta Reserve annual fee?
$650 as of 2026.
Does the Delta Reserve include lounge access?
Yes, 15 Delta Sky Club visits a year, with unlimited access after $75,000 in annual spend, plus a limited number of guest passes.
What companion certificate comes with the Delta Reserve?
One a year after card renewal, valid in Delta First, Delta Comfort, or Main Cabin, for round trips within the U.S. and to nearby international destinations. See our companion certificate guide for how to book it.
Does the Delta Reserve help with Medallion status?
Yes, it gives a head start toward Medallion Qualification Dollars and can help you reach or keep status faster.
Last reviewed October 2026. We verify every rule, ratio, and figure against issuer terms and current reporting, and date each one. See our editorial standards for how we research and correct guides.
We re-check these guides as issuer rules and award charts change. 2 ways to follow along, no account needed.