United MileagePlus just launched a fresh sale on purchased miles, and it's a good one if you've got a redemption lined up. Through August 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. CT, eligible members can buy miles with a bonus of up to 95 percent, or a discount of up to 45 percent depending on how your offer is structured. That works out to as low as 1.92 cents per mile at the top tier.

The Offer Details

Log into your MileagePlus account to see your specific offer, since United targets members differently. The best rates we're seeing require purchasing at least 20,000 miles before the bonus kicks in. United normally charges 3.5 cents per mile plus a 7.5 percent excise tax, so this sale represents real savings if you're in the market to top off your account.

One catch carries over from recent promotions: you can only buy 50,000 miles (bonus included) in any rolling 90-day period, and 200,000 miles per calendar year. That's a meaningful cap compared to older United sales, so max-purchase strategies aren't really on the table here.

How to Take Advantage

1. Log into your MileagePlus account and check your targeted offer, since bonuses vary by member.
2. Purchase at least 20,000 miles in a single transaction to unlock the top-tier bonus.
3. Use a credit card that earns strong everyday spending rewards, since United processes mileage sales through Points.com rather than as an airline purchase.

Why This Deal Matters

At 1.92 cents per mile, you're still paying more than most valuations of United miles, which typically land closer to 1.1 to 1.2 cents apiece. That means buying miles just to pad your balance isn't the move. Where this sale earns its keep is when you're a few thousand miles short of booking a specific award you've already found, especially a partner business class redemption on a Star Alliance carrier like ANA or Lufthansa, where cash fares often run well north of $3,000. In that scenario, paying under 2 cents a mile to unlock a five-figure seat is an easy call.

United miles never expire, so there's no pressure to buy speculatively. If you don't have a redemption in mind, skip this one and revisit our United MileagePlus guide for better ways to build your balance.

Bottom Line

This sale runs through August 20, 2026, with bonuses up to 95 percent for targeted members. Buy miles only if you have a specific award booking in mind that costs meaningfully less in miles than cash. Otherwise, keep your wallet closed and earn miles the usual way instead.

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