Do You Have TSA PreCheck Yet? Here's Why You Should -- And 3 Ways to Get It Reimbursed

Going through airport security isn't typically the highlight of anyone's vacation or business trip. While it's certainly nice to have some peace of mind that your trip is going to be a safe one, security lines can get long, and it can be annoying to have to remove your shoes, take off your belt, and dig your laptop out of your carry-on bag.

A TSA PreCheck membership can help you to avoid all of this. While going through airport security might not become a pleasant experience, PreCheck can certainly remove some of the worst pain points from the equation. Here's a rundown of the benefits, how much it costs, and how you might be able to get it for free.

What are the benefits of TSA PreCheck?

Of course, the biggest benefit of TSA PreCheck is that it is a time-saver. If you've flown recently, especially if you flew from a major airport, you probably noticed two security lines at the checkpoints -- one for passengers with TSA PreCheck and another for those without it.

The TSA (Transportation Safety Administration) claims that 99% of TSA PreCheck passengers wait less than 10 minutes at security checkpoints.

However, the benefits of TSA PreCheck go beyond time savings. For example, did you know that TSA PreCheck members are allowed to keep their shoes and belt on while going through security? They can also continue to wear light jackets throughout the process, and leave their travel-sized liquids in their bags. And if you have a laptop, it can stay in your bag throughout the security screening process.

How much does TSA PreCheck cost?

Many people who don't already have TSA PreCheck are surprised by its cost. Not that it's too expensive -- many find the application cost of $78 for five years to be rather cheap. After all, that's less than $16 per year to make your airport security experience far more convenient. (Note: Depending on the operator of the enrollment center, the cost could be as high as $85 for five years.)

It's also worth noting that for international travelers, a Global Entry membership could make more sense. Global Entry includes a TSA PreCheck membership, also lasts five years, and also includes faster screenings for travelers arriving at U.S. airports.

Signing up for TSA PreCheck is rather easy. You schedule an appointment at any of more than 600 enrollment centers (many accept walk-ins), and the provider will collect your fingerprints, take a photo, and verify your identification documents. The appointment itself takes about 10 minutes.

Three credit cards that will cover your cost for a TSA PreCheck membership

Although TSA PreCheck is a great value, it can be an even better deal for consumers who have certain credit cards. There are plenty of travel credit cards that offer TSA PreCheck reimbursement as a perk. Here are a few to consider:

• The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card card has a $95 annual fee (see rates and fees), and in addition to offering a free TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership every five years, it has an excellent rewards program, benefits on hotel stays, and one of the most generous welcome bonuses of any credit card in its price range.
• The United℠ Explorer Card can be a great choice for travelers who frequently book flights on United Airlines. The card has a $95 annual fee, and it offers a TSA PreCheck credit every five years. In addition, it includes potentially valuable perks, such as a free checked bag on United flights for the cardholder and a companion, plus two free passes to the United Club airport lounges every year.
• Last but certainly not least, The Platinum Card® from American Express can seem like a pricey way to get a free TSA PreCheck membership, as it has a $695 annual fee (see rates and fees). But it has a massive list of perks and statement credits available that could potentially justify its fee twice over (or more) for those who take advantage. These include an annual $200 hotel credit, $20 per month in digital entertainment credit, $200 in Uber Cash per year, and many others. Terms apply.

Depending on your spending habits and preferences, one of these (or another credit card that offers a PreCheck membership credit) could be worth a closer look before you take your next trip.