The current facts

  • Global Entry costs $120 for a five-year membership and includes TSA PreCheck access for eligible approved members.
  • Every applicant needs a separate Trusted Traveler Programs account and approval.
  • Applicants under 18 pay no fee when a parent or guardian is already a member or has submitted a qualifying TTP application.
  • CBP says many applications finish quickly, while some can take 12 months or longer.

Three ways to help someone

1. Pay their application with your eligible card

Many issuer credits post after the first qualifying DHS or enrollment-provider transaction. Chase’s current Sapphire Reserve terms, for example, reimburse the first eligible application fee charged by the primary cardholder or authorized user, without saying the applicant must be the account owner. Nevertheless, the issuer—not CBP—controls reimbursement. Confirm the exact benefit before submitting a nonrefundable application.

2. Use an eligible additional card’s own credit

This is the clearest documented method when available. Amex states that eligible Additional Platinum Cards receive their own Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application credit when the fee is charged to that additional card. Additional-card fees and benefit eligibility differ, so adding someone solely for this credit may be poor value.

3. Do nothing for an eligible minor

Since October 2024, a qualifying child’s Global Entry fee can be zero. Do not waste a card credit on a fee CBP will waive; link the parent or guardian’s application or membership correctly.

Global Entry or TSA PreCheck?

For eligible travelers who expect international trips, Global Entry normally offers more value because it includes TSA PreCheck access and costs $120. TSA PreCheck alone can be faster to enroll in and may suit domestic-only travelers. Approval is never guaranteed, and application fees are nonrefundable.

Before giving away the credit

  • Check your own renewal date and the benefit’s four-year clock.
  • Confirm whether the credit covers Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, NEXUS, or only some programs.
  • Pay only through the official TTP system or a recognized TSA enrollment provider.
  • Avoid third-party “application assistance” sites; their service fees generally do not qualify.

Card benefits and government fees change. Issuer reimbursement is governed by the exact terms on your account. CBP, Chase, and Amex details were checked July 16, 2026.