By: AnnaMarie Mock, CFP®
As of January 2019, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reported that 99.9% of passengers wait less than 30 minutes for security checks at airports. This doesn’t seem factual when you are waiting in the security line with no end in sight.
During my very warm welcome back into the states in the customs line, I was curious as to what traveler program provides the highest value for the lowest cost. There are many programs that are offered through the government and private companies, but the two most popular programs are the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry.
TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck provides expedited security screening benefits for flights departing from US airports designed to clear security lines quicker for frequent fliers.
You are still required to show a boarding pass and ID but will have access to the fast-track lines not requiring the removal of shoes and belts on your person or laptops and liquids from your carry-on bag. As a bonus, PreCheck members can bring a non-track member with them through the lines!
Qualifying for PreCheck Status
The process to get PreCheck status starts with the completion of a short form.
Once accepted, you will be scheduled for fingerprint processing at your local TSA PreCheck center to confirm the veracity of the answers on your application. For a flat $85 fee, your membership will last for 5 years, and you will be given a Known Traveler Number (KTN). The KTN will need to be manually added to each flight you book to ensure that the PreCheck status is on your trip.
PreCheck is a great option for domestic fliers, but what if you are frequently traveling abroad?
Global Entry
Global Entry includes the benefits from the PreCheck and provides for expedited US customs screening for travelers flying internationally into a US airport. Global Entry is administered by the US Customs and Border Protection, so you can skip the Customs officials and solely use the kiosks to clear customs. The cost for a 5-year membership is $100.
Some credit cards offer a reimbursement program for the application fee when charged on the credit card or allow for travel credits to be allocated toward the fee. The decision to apply for a trusted traveler program comes down to convenience at the airport versus the cost and time to apply. Happy travels!
Author’s Bio
AnnaMarie Mock is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and Partner at HIGHLAND Financial Advisors, LLC, a Fee-Only financial planning firm that offers comprehensive financial planning, retirement planning, employer retirement planning, and investment management. AnnaMarie graduated from Montclair State University with a degree in finance and management and successfully passed the CFP® national exam in 2016. She has been working at Highland Financial Advisors since 2013 as a fee-only, fiduciary Wealth Advisor and is a member of NAPFA.